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Oe ' NY . oO Wi3 Ll wa sO r MIN 6 HfHGW = O : s SW 5 5 2 wv He Zz 7) 2 NI_ NVINOSHLINS Sal YVYdI1 LIBRARIES SMITHSONIAN __INSTITUTION Zz ~’ 2 ie z n . wn un = = te mibed = a -+ x Js - Cc Se FQN (= AN es a2 WN» = a a eo). 23 o Sol O Zz Fe ey a ES SMITHSONIAN 4 Cte oe TUTION PS Spa SOU: Di JVUYSIT LIBRAR! VASVAY = 2 Wse INSTITUTION NOILNLILSNI <—“HSON, Ys 4 TUTION wudit TUTION LIBRARIES SMITHSONIA 4 NVINOSHLINS SS!Y¥Vudl INSTITUTION NOILOLILSNI 1IRRARPIFS CAAITHCONIAN NVINOSHLINS S3I4¥VuaII iIwmyuaqirt ISSN 0007-1595 Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’ Club Edited by Dr D.W. SNOW Volume111 No.1 March 1991 FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Tuesday, 9 April 1991. Professor C. H. Fry will speak on “‘Alcedini- dae’’. Professor Fry is well known for his work in Africa, particularly for his research on Bee-eaters and related birds. He is Professor of Biology, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, and is an Editor of The Birds of Africa. Those wishing to attend should notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday 26 March 1991*. Tuesday, 21 May 1991. Dr D. H. Thomas will speak on ‘‘Water, water everywhere—the Problems of Seabirds at Sea”. Dr Thomas is a Lecturer at the School of Pure and Applied Biology at the University of Wales. He has worked on the adaptations of Sandgrouse and other birds to desert conditions and on the problems of Shearwaters and Penguins in pelagic conditions. Those wishing to attend should notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday 7 May 1991*: Tuesday, 9 July 1991. Mr R. E. Scott will speak on birds in Bulgaria. Tuesday, 22 October 1991. Dr Robert Cheke will speak on birds of Togo. Tuesday, 26 November 1991. The Chairman, Mr R. E. F. Peal, will speak on birds of N.W. Morocco. Meetings are held in the Senior Common Roon,, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 at 6.15 pm. for 7 pm. A plan showing Imperial College will be sent to members on request. *It is usually possible to take acceptances up to the weekend before a meeting, but members are asked to accept by 14 days beforehand as arrangements for the meeting have to be confirmed with Imperial College well in advance. If you accept and subsequently find you are unable to attend please notify the Hon. Secretary, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 67B (tel. 0572 722788 ) as soon as possible. 1 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Bulletin of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 111 No. 1 Published: 27 March 1991 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE FOR 1990 Meetings. 1990 was an exceptionally full year for the Club. Thirteen meetings were held, of which one was a special occasion, the 800th Meet- ing of the Club. Seventy-six guests of the Club, members and their guests attended the meeting held at Imperial College to celebrate the 800th meeting of the Club at which the Earl of Cranbrook gave the address. A Conversazione was held in the Pavilion, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on 5 December as part of the 20th International Ornithological Congress. This was the first meeting of the Club ever to have been held outside England and was attended by many of the overseas and British members of the Club and other participants of the Congress. As well as being a welcome oppor- tunity for the exchange of ideas, it enabled overseas members of the Club and other readers of the Bulletin to meet the Editor and other officers of the Club, which was much appreciated. ‘The Club was fortunate to have a programme of expert speakers during the year, who between them covered a wide range of ornithological sub- jects. Meetings were arranged to take advantage of the visits to Britain of Dr Richard Liversidge, Dr David Peakall and Dr Algirdgas Knystautas. As in previous years, the photographs used by the speakers as illustration were of very high quality. The meetings, other than the Conversazione, were all held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building at Imperial College, London, and were attended by a total of 648 members and guests. The Club also staged an exhibition jointly with the British Ornithol- ogists’ Union, displaying their publications at the Bird Fair at Rutland Water in Leicestershire at the end of August. Committee. The Committee met seven times during the year and the attendance by its members was 90%. A new recruitment leaflet was pro- duced and was displayed at Rutland Water and at Christchurch, New Zealand. It is also being routinely sent to newly elected members of the Union. A list of paid-up members has been prepared and is to be pub- lished with the Bulletin Index for Volume 110 during 1991. Reprinting copies of back numbers to complete the stock was continued, and com- plete runs of the Bulletin can now be supplied back to Vol. 27 (except for the special Vols. 28, 30, 32 and 34, which were annual Migration Reports). Deaths. It is with very great regret that the Committee reports the deaths in the past year of Dr G. Beven (Member 1948-1990, Committee 1954-1958, 1976-1977, Vice-Chairman 1977-1980), R. D. Etchécopar (Member 1952-1990) and J. E. Jany (Member 1958-1990). Report of the Committee for 1990 2 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Dr Beven was nominated by the Committee for election as Chairman in 1980 and it was a great sadness that he had to withdraw because of ill- health just before the meeting at which he would have been elected. Membership. In 1990 there were 20 new members, and 2 members who were in arrears in 1989 paid up to date. There were 10 resignations from 1 January 1990 and 29 members failed to pay their subscriptions for the year. Paid-up membership at 31 December 1990 was 623, 390 members within the U.K. and 233 members overseas. The membership of 13 members was terminated as their subscriptions remained unpaid for 1989 and 1990. Bulletin sales. Non-member subscribers to the Bulletin in 1990 were 168 (25 U.K., 143 Overseas). The Club is again indebted to Mrs F. E. Warr for the great deal of work she has undertaken not only in looking after the stock of back-numbers of the Bulletin but also in dealing with the sales of back-numbers and separates for authors. Finance. The accounts for 1990 will be circulated at the Annual General Meeting and subsequently published in the Bulletin. Members who wish to have a copy before the Annual General Meeting are asked to apply to the Hon. ‘Treasurer. Bulletin. The Club has been very privileged from 1976 to have the services of Dr James Monk as Editor of the Bulletin. ‘The consistently high standard of the Bulletin during his term of office is recognised world- wide. He felt it was time for him to stand down, and it is with regret that the Committee has accepted his resignation from the end of Vol. 110. James Monk’s wise and kindly counsel will be missed at Committee meet- ings. However, he is already at work on a special issue for the Club’s centenary in 1992. The Club has been extremely fortunate to have the agreement of Dr David Snow, lately of the Sub-department of Ornithology, British Museum (Natural History), past editor of /bis and a scientist of great international standing, to succeed Dr Monk from the beginning of Vol. 111. This is the third volume in the last 3 years to have included over 200 pages (208, 247, 227). Vols. 96—99 (1976-79) averaged 145.5 pages, Vols. 101— 105 averaged 153.6 pages and Vols. 106—110, of the last 5 years, averaged 210.8 pages, an increase of 22° over 1967—75 and of 49% over 1976-79. ‘This is most welcome, indicating as it does continuing and increasing submissions of excellent papers from authors worldwide, as well as the satisfactory nature of the Club’s finances. Vol. 110(1) contained the first colour plate that has appeared in the Bulletin, thanks to the generosity of the authors and discoverers of the new species there illustrated. Papers have included descriptions of one new species and possibly 2 others, and 4 new subspecies; new distributional data from Serengeti, Liberia, the Philippines, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador,Guyana, Paraguay and Venezuela; several first descriptions of nests and eggs; records of weights; descriptions of pterylosis; discussion of migrant records and other field observations; and, as always, various taxonomic, systematic and nomenclatural opinions and reviews. The September issue welcomed, for the first time in 49 years, the Chairman’s Report at the dinner following the Annual General Meeting, at one time a regular feature of the Club’s year. Annual General Meeting 3 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Annual General Meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club will be held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, 21 May 1991. AGENDA 1. Minutes of the 1990 Annual General Meeting (see Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110(3): 113-114). 2. Report of the Committee and Accounts for 1990. 3. The Bulletin. 4. The election of Officers. The Committee proposes that:— (i) Mrs A. M. Moore be re-elected Honorary Secretary (ii) S. J. Farnsworth be re-elected Honorary Treasurer (iii) Dr J. F. Monk be elected Member of the Committee (vice R. H. Kettle, who retires by rotation and is therefore not eligible for re- election). 5. Any other business of which notice shall have been given in Hveardance with Rule (12). By Order of the Committee AMBERLEY M. Moore Honorary Secretary The eight hundred and third meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday, 23 October 1990 in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington at 6.15 p.m. 26 members and 11 guests attended. Members present were: R. E. F. PEAL (Chairman), Dr H. Q. P. Crick (Speaker), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, D. R. CaLpEer, Cdr M. B. CASEMENT RN, Dr R. A. CHEKE, I. Couns, P. J. ConpER, J. H. ELcoop, S. J. FARNswortuH, G. D. Fie_p, Dr L. D. C. FIsHPOOL, D. GrifFIN, Dr P. Lack, Revd G. K. McCu.tocu, Dr J. F. Monk, Mrs A. M. Moore, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mutter, A. J. RANDALL, V. SAaWLE, Dr R. C. SELF, R. E. SHARLAND, N. H. F. Stone, Dr A. TYE. Guests present were: Mrs B. Apcocx, Mrs J. CaLper, Miss C. Dovey, Mrs F. FARNSWORTH, Miss K. Horr, Mrs I. McCuttocu, P. A. Marrack, P. J. Moore, Miss D. RipcELy, Dr C. TINGLE, Mrs H. Tye. After supper, Dr Humphrey Crick gave the address, illustrated with excellent photo- graphic slides, on tsetse fly control in Africa and its effect on the avifauna there. He outlined the history of the methods of control—from game removal, spraying high and low concen- trations of DDT, and later pyrethrum-based pesticides, to the recently developed method of control, the ‘cow ina bottle’. He described the studies undertaken on the effects of pesticides on non-passerine and passerine birds. The effects of DDT, already known in Europe, of the thinning of egg shells in some species were shown to be manifest in Africa also. It is thought that control of the tsetse fly may accelerate problems of habitat degradation due to rapid human settlement and increases in the number of domestic livestock in the cleared areas. The eight hundred and fourth meeting of the Club, a Conversazione, was held on Wednesday, 5 December 1990 at the 20th International Ornithological Congress at Christchurch, New Zealand. It was well attended by members of the Congress (who included some 52 members of the British Ornithologists’ Club). ¥. Fjeldsa 4 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) Members present included: R. E. F. Peat (Chairman), Dr J. F. Monk (Editor), Dr J. S. AsH, K. D. Bishop, Mrs D. M. Braptey, M. D. Bruce, Dr H.Q.P. Crick, J. FANSHAWE, Dr C. J. Feare, Dr D. T. Hotyoaxk, Dr D. C. Houston, R. Kettre, Dr R. Liversipce, D. G. Mepway, D.S. MELVILLE, Mrs A. M. Moore, Dr G. Moret, Dr M-Y. Moret, Mrs M.N. Mutter, Dr T. OBa, W.S. PEcKOvER, Dr K. SCHUCHMANN, Dr S. SomaprkKarTa, Dr A. L. Spaans, Dr W. THIeDE, Dr C. G. VIOLANI, Dr R. WILKINSON. Guests attending included: Dr M. Ass, A. ANDERSON, B. Arvipsson, Mrs J. W. Aso, Dr G. AULEN, Dr A. Banxovics, Ms S. BauMAN, Dr L. BENNuM, Dr R. BIERREGAARD, Dr U. BEICHLE, M. Braun, Dr M. Brooke, Mrs I. BuLtock, K. Davis, Ms A. Davis, M. Eens, Dr R. FLEISCHER, R. C. Fotso, Dr C. Francis, Dr C. A. GALBRAITH, Mrs A. GALBRAITH, Dr A. GoLpsMITH, Ms G. GrirFITHs, Mrs J. Hawkins, J. R. HENDERSON, B. Kinc, Mrs V. LIVERSIDGE, Dr M. Lovette, Dr M. McNiIcHo.i, L. McPuHeErson, G. F. Megs, Mrs V. Mees-BaLcuin, Prof. M. MiLtone, Dr P. Monacuan, Mrs ..D Monk, Ms M. Morin, C. A. MULLER, R. NEEGAARD, Dr D. NETTLESHIP, Mrs B. PEaL, Ms R. PINXTEN, Dr A. RICHFORD, M. Rospsins, C. ROBERTSON, Dr R. ROBERTSON, P. ROBERTSON, P. RYAN, Prof. R. RYDER, Mrs A. Ryper, F. Saris, Dr H. Scnuiz, Dr S. SEVERINGHAUS, Dr G. SHANNON, G. SHANNON, R. Stack, Mrs M. Spaans-ScuHEEN, Dr P.STETTENHEIM, Dr D. SUMMERS-SMITH, Dr W. SUTER, Mrs D. Suter, Dr B. SUTHERLAND, Dr K. SWENNEN, Ms C. Tarr, Dr U. Tutepe, Dr A. ‘TURNER, Prof. M. Wapa, Dr D. WaLLsscHLaceEr, Ms J. WIENEKE, Mrs L. WILKINSON, Dr K. Witt. The eight hundred and fifth meeting of the Club was held on Wednesday, 12 December 1990 in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington at 6.15 p.m. 25 members and 21 guests attended. Members present were: D. GRIFFIN (Vice-Chairman), M. A. Apcock, B. M. BEck, P. J. BuLL, Cdr M. B. CasEMENT RN, I. CoLuins, P. J. Conper, Dr R. A. F. Cox, S. J. FARNSWORTH, A. Gripss, K. W. HENSHALL, T. J. James, Dr J. A. K. MELDRUM, Revd G. K. McCuttocu, T. R. Mitzs, R. G. Morean, Dr R. P. Prys-Jonges, A. J. RANDALL, M. L. Romer, V. SAWLE, Dr R. C. SELF, P. J. SELLAR, A. R. Swasu, N. H. F. Strong, J. J. WHEATLEY. Guests present were: Dr A. Knystautas (Speaker), Mrs B. Apcock, N. V. BELYALova, O. V. BeLyaLou, N. BUCKNELL, S. CHAPMAN, Mrs F. M. FARNSworTH, J. B. FISHER, Miss E. GREEN, G. E. GREEN, Mrs B. M. Grsss, Mrs S. GRIFFIN, D. Harris, B. Htticoat, Ms K. Horr, Mrs N. Lippe.i, Mrs I. McCuttocu, E. Potapov, J. SAWLE, Mrs G. D. Swasu, M. WILSON. After supper it was a pleasure to welcome again Dr A. J. Knystautas who spoke on the ‘Avifaunal Composition of the USSR’. After a general introduction to the natural veg- etation regions of this vast country, Dr Knystautas conducted us through a region by region account of the avifauna illustrated by superb slides. Of particular interest was his account of the distribution of species such as the accentors, of which seven species are found within the continental boundaries of the USSR. The activity of birds during snow-storms 1n high-level woodlands in Peru by F. Fjeldsa Received 24 Fune 1990 Small woods dominated by Polylepis trees occur locally in the steppe-like habitats of the high Andes, usually at 4000-4500 m and isolated some distance above the main treeline. This habitat has been reduced by long- term climatic cycles (see, e.g., Hansen et al. 1984) and human activity, F. Fyeldsa 5 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) probably since pre-incaic times (Ellenberg 1958, Ansion 1986, Fjeldsa 1987, Fjeldsa & Krabbe 1990: 23-24). Several of the bird species inhabiting these habitat islands have hardly ever been seen outside them, and therefore would seem to be sedentary. As a result of the habitat fragmentation, these birds have relict distri- butions. Some populations of only a few pairs may be separated by tens of kilometres from other conspecific populations. For a full understanding of the biogeographic patterns and differentiation of local populations (see, e.g., Vuilleumier 1984) it is important to know whether these birds are truly sedentary, or disperse occasionally. Some high-altitude birds make downslope migrations as part of their annual cycle. In this case, they could disperse by descending and ascending through different valleys. Other species are found in the high-level woods at all seasons. For these, the most likely opportunity for dispersal would be during spells of extreme weather, especially when the highlands sometimes become covered by snow. O’ Neill & Parker (1978) describe one incidence of a movement of birds down the Penas canyon in Cordillera Vilcanota (Cuzco, Peru), when a snow-storm swept this area. The migration mainly involved birds of open habitat, but also Chalcostigma stanleyi and Xenodacnis parina, which live in the upper parts of the canyon in tiny Polylepis patches on the surround- ing mountain crests. Below follows the first account of observations made within Polylepis woodland during snowfall. Case studies Snowfall in the Abancay mountains I spent 22 November to 6 December 1989 in the highland between the Apurimac and Lambrama valleys SE of Abancay in Apurimac, Peru, as part of an extensive study of relict woodlands in the high Andes (see Fjeldsa 1987, in press, Frimer & Nielsen 1989). This area of 20 x 30 km of rugged puna grassland and alpine habitat is intersected by valleys with scattered woodlands at 3400-4000 m (Eupatorium, Escallonia, and some Myrsinanthes, Polylepis weberbaueri and Vallea stipularis), and has several discrete habitat islands of Polylepis incana and subsericans at 4100-— 4600 m. These latter woodlands were exceptionally dense and lush, most trees 10-15 m tall with trunks 0.4—1 m thick, dense regrowth along most edges and in the clearings, and the larger trees heavily loaded with mosses and vines. The forest bottom was shady, with thick litter and moss, and with undergrowth of nitrophilous plants locally. (Most other Polylepis woods, in contrast, represent mosaic habitat with broken canopies, small and gnarled trees, and minimal regeneration because of grazing and burn- ing of the grass. The woodlands of the Abancay mountains had an open and bushy structure only on steep, rocky crests.) The effect of snowfall was witnessed in a 70-hectare forest patch in Quebrada Balcon. Only its lower fringe, at 4150 m, was used by man, who took fallen trunks and side-branches for firewood. The terrain was very difficult for walking, and there were no signs of human influence or grazing by cattle more than 200 m inside the lower forest edge. The most important vine, Salpichroa (Solanaceae), formed curtains 5-10 m high, F. Fjeldsa 6 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) hanging from the canopy, adorned with myriads of yellow tubular flowers. This must be one of the least man-influenced habitat islands in this elevational zone in Peru, and the place is therefore particularly suited for studies of the functioning of the ecosystems of Andean high-altitude woods. During October-December the weather was generally fine and sunny, but with frost every night. ‘The situation changed during the night 26/27 November, when the area became enveloped in mist. The whole of the following day was rainy with periods of hail and snow, but the ground remained snow-free until the following night. On the morning of 28 November the canopy as well as the forest floor was covered by 5—10 cm of dry snow, and there was even deeper snow in the grassland. The con- ditions in the upper part of the wood, at 4500 m and within the clouds, were most unpleasant, but most terrain below 3900 m was snow-free. The snowfall diminished gradually, but inside the forest the snow continued to drop from the branches, first as fine powder, then as lumps and drops and water. In the lower part of the forest, the canopy (and tall puna grass and rocks in the open land) was snow-free at noon, but in the evening there was still some snow among the tufts of tall grass and herbs. There were still occasional showers of rain and hail, and the upper ridges continued to have snow. Bird observations The observations on 27 November, 28 November (from 07.45 until sunset) and on the morning of 29 November consisted of continuous watching from sheltered places among rocks and while stealing slowly through the forest. Mist-netting was done from midday of 28 November. Unfortunately, observations on the 28th did not cover the upper ridges, or woodlands situated below 3900 m. Altogether 34 bird species were recorded in the Balcon forest in these three days. This total includes typical highland species and birds otherwise associated with lower elevations, including large numbers of hummingbirds (Aglaeactis castelnaudi, Patagona gigas, Pterophanes cyanoptera). Large numbers of grassland granivores (notably Phrygilus unicolor) spent the night in the forest. Passerines of the puna zone nor- mally sleep in caves or holes in banks (Dorst 1956), but it was character- istic of this mountain tract that the grassland granivores assembled by night to sleep in trees. Other woodland patches visited in this highland had 30-39 species each. A similar richness of species has only been found in a few Polylepis tracts in Cordilleras Blanca (Ancash) and Vilcabamba (Cuzco) out of a few hundred field stations in the puna zone (compare data in Vuilleumier & Simberloff 1980, Fjeldsa 1987 and Frimer & Nielsen 1989). The bird activity on 27 November differed from that of days with fine weather by a low incidence of song, especially in the afternoon. During the night 27/28 November (when I was often awake) no calls indicating downwards migration could be heard, but at 07.55 one Phrygilus unicolor was glimpsed flying down the valley. As the grassland was afterwards found to be ‘lifeless’, I assume that most grassland granivores had fled down the valley immediately after dawn, maybe to some ‘corrales’ with F. Fieldsa Ui Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) cattle 1 km below, or at least to below the zone covered by snow. Asthenes humilis and A. modesta were not heard in the grassland before 10.10, but may have been hiding in nest-holes or among tall grass. Colaptes rupicola, Cinclodes fuscus and a few Zonotrichia capensis stayed just inside the lower forest edge in the morning, and these birds and Phrygilus species were not seen in the grassland until bare spots appeared on rocks and near creeks at 10.45. Hummingbirds fed apparently unaffected in the snow-clad canopy from 07.45 (as seen by O’ Neill & Parker 1978). The snow cover was rather light on the Salpichroa curtains, and the hummers could sweep some snow away with their wing-whirring. They sometimes perched briefly on branches with deep snow. Diglossa brunneiventris and Conirostrum cinereum were also active early, as were breeding pairs of Ochthoeca oenanthoides and rufipectoralis. The two first probed Salpichroa flowers, the two latter showed their usual perch-to-ground sallies, and O. rufipectoralis was seen hopping on the ground in 5 cm snow for shorter periods, chattering fre- quently. However, O. oenanthoides did not feed from rocks outside the forest until after noon. Also Troglodytes aedon fed early, in snow-free recesses below rocks and boulders. There was no early morning song. The first Ochthoeca strophes were heard 08.20, full song (mainly by Troglodytes aedon) from 09.00 onwards, but the amount of song remained subnormal the entire day. From 09.00 a number of bird species fed in the canopy. The feeding of Anairetes alpinus involved short sallies and hover-gleaning which whirled some snow off the foliage, and the bird could use hovering purposefully to wipe the foliage before perching. Xenodacnis parina managed well as it gleans only undersides of leaves. Carduelis atratus and. crassirostris were seen in the tree-tops. Although Scytalopus (unnamed; see Fjeldsa & Krabbe 1990: 440 and 847) and Grallaria andicola were not recorded before 10.40 and 11.00, respectively, they were probably present all the time, hiding in snow- free recesses. Turdus chiguanco was often seen hopping in the snow, but preferred places with thin snow cover below dense canopy, as did Cin- clodes (excelsior) aricomae, which dug through the snow with its long beak. Anairetes alpinus showed a markedly higher density in the lower part of the forest early on 28 November than the day before, suggesting that many birds had descended from the upper parts. Leptasthenura xenothorax occurred in the lower part of the forest this morning, but only near the upper ridges the preceding afternoon. This species feeds along thick branches and trunks (unlike other Leptasthenuras), as does Cranioleuca albicapilla and Oreomanes fraseri, which remained on their territories, although apparently inactive until 10.30. ‘The species lists and numbers of birds present in small Polylepis copses 80, 250 and 800m below the continuous forest tract did not change between 27 and 28 November, and no birds were seen crossing open land between the woodland patches. Therefore, although some forest birds may have abandoned the misty and cold upper parts of the large forest, the weather did not induce these birds to pass from the lower edge of the large woodland to the smaller woodlands below. These woodland patches ¥. Fjeldsa 8 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) are fully visible from the large woodland, and form a chain down the valley. There may, however, have been a few exceptions. On 28 November Pterophanes cyanoptera was not seen until 11.20. This extremely fast flyer may have gone lower down in the valley for a few hours. Also Chalcostigma stanleyi seemed to be temporarily absent, and this may also have been the case with Polioxolmis rufipennis. A single Aeronautes andicolus (otherwise seen only below 3200 m) passed at 12.40. There was no mortality of young in 4 passerine nests checked after the snow-storm. Other incidences of snowfall During 14-17 March 1987, P. Arctander stayed at 4300 m near the upper edge of the Polylepis woodland near Abra Malaga above the Penas canyon in Cuzco (Fjeldsa 1987, loc. 47). This is a fairly open semihumid woodland, with a high number of species. The weather was foggy during this visit, with rain, hail and snow throughout the period, and on 15—16 March there was up to 10 cm snow on the ground, and the canopy was also densely covered. A detailed record was not made, but the following species were noted in the upper part of the wood during periods with snow: Phalcobaenus megalopterus, Chalcostigma_ stanleyi, Colaptes rupicola, Cinclodes fuscus, Leptasthenura xenothorax and yanacensis, Grallaria andicola, Scytalopus magellanicus simonsi, Polioxolmis rufipennis, Ochthoeca fumigatus, Muscisaxicola albifrons, Oreomanes fraser1t, Catamenia inornata, Phrygilus unicolor, Carduelis atratus and crasstrostris. Most birds retreated down-hill during the worst periods, but probably only went to the lower part of the woodland, at 4000 m. The birds of this woodland seem regularly to roam between the upper and lower parts, often in mixed feeding parties. Leptasthenura yanacensis maintained normal feeding routines in the upper part of the woodland throughout the period, and Scytalopus, Grallaria and the three tyrant flycatchers were seen here all the time. N. Krabbe stayed at this same site 16-18 October 1983, and had very cold weather all the time, and asnow-storm on the last day. Leptasthenura species and Cinclodes fuscus visited the upper ridge to receive the first morning sun; for the rest of the period most birds deserted the camp-site area near the crest, or moved rapidly up- and down-hill in response to weather changes. Only a Grallaria andicola was seen near the crest during the worst period. However, it was N.K.’s impression that the birds remained in the lower part of the woodland, but stayed quiet and inactive for periods. Parties of Aratinga (mitrata?) were seen passing, but not during the periods of snowfall. On two occasions I have seen the puna grasslands and alpine habitats surrounding the Junin Altiplano covered by 10-15 cm of snow. In this area there is no easy access to lower valleys. Finches (Sicalis, Phrygilus) congregated in large flocks on damp snow-free meadows along the shores of lakes in altiplano areas. I also noted several ground-tyrants there. This happened in October and February, when these birds would normally occur as scattered pairs or small groups on rocky or scrubby slopes with potential breeding habitat. ¥. Fjeldsa 9 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Discussion Many birds of the open highlands fly down into the valleys or assemble on humid lake-shores in periods with snow. The present account shows that many of the specialized inhabitants of the Polylepis woodlands, in con- trast, are able to stay in their high-altitude habitat, at least if the snow does not remain very long. In fact, snow very rarely lasts more than a couple of days in the puna zone, except in a few very high passes. It seems that Pterophanes cyanoptera and Chalcostigma stanleyi are opportunists in their altitudinal distribution. Also Polioxolmis rufipennis, which finds its prey on the ground in open country surrounding the woodlands (Fjeldsa 1990), may move in response to snowfall. However, most birds in Quebrada Balcon remained on their territories or made minor vertical movements within a tract of continuous forest habitat. They maintained fairly normal activities, except for reduced song and some hours of inactivity in the morning, until the snow fell off the foliage. There was no indication that the snowfall was a serious threat. The observations at Abra Malaga showed that the birds became very quiet, reduced their activity and avoided the most inhospitable high parts of their habitat. It is remarkable that the birds in Quebrada Balcon were reluctant to leave the lower edge of the woodland, considering the short distances between the woodland patches. ‘This makes me doubt that they knew that the copses formed potential ‘stepping stones’ by which they could reach snow-free lower-level woodland within a few minutes. We cannot con- clude that downward migration never occurs, but it seems clear that the majority of birds of high-level woodland are well adapted to resist spells of severe weather. It should be remarked that the Polylepis patches near Abancay and Abra Malaga are exceptionally rich in moss and creepers, which represent fine subcanopy feeding microhabitats. Other, drier and epiphyte-free woods may not offer quite the same opportunities for finding food during snowfall. Some of these woods have few species (e.g., Ochthoeca oenanthoides, Oreomanes fraseri, Carduelis crassirostris, Polioxolmis rufipennis and hummingbird species with slightly curved bills; see Fjeldsa, in press). Most of these (but never O. fraser1) can sometimes be seen in terrain with scattered scrub or in bushy or rocky places in the valleys. The Polylepis forest offers many opportunities to maintain some feed- ing routines despite some snow. Although few insects feed on Polylepis, these trees represent a good refuge habitat for insects (several moths even showing specific adaptations for crypsis on Polylepis bark; O. Karsholt, pers. comm.). This is due to the rich supply of sheltered and frost-free microhabitats in the loose, laminar Polylepis bark and in the moss and among epiphytes hanging from the branches. Thus, there will always be food available for scansorial and bark-peeling species of birds (Leptasthenura xenothorax, Cranioleuca species, and especially Oreomanes fraseri). Also the pendent flowers of many creepers will be accessible whilst the foliage is snow-clad. Since most Polylepis woods grow in rocky terrain or on coarse boulders, there will usually also be cavities with snow- free refuges for ground-feeding birds. Those members of the Asthenes J. Fyeldsa 10 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) dorbignyi superspecies that frequent Polylepis woods (Fjeldsa & Krabbe 1990: 365-370) feed on fairly open ground and seem to live only in semi-arid highlands, where deep snow is unlikely to occur. Itismy experience, when making study skins of Polylepis-adapted birds, that they have no significant reserves of subdermal fat. Either the habitat offers little surplus food, or the birds do not usually need to have energy reserves for the critical periods. (An exception is Xenodacnis parina, which often is very fat, and sometimes siskins. This aspect certainly deserves a more careful study.) For woodland birds which show an innate fear of leaving wooded terrain, several days of snowfall may be fatal in Polylepis tracts which have become isolated far away from lower-level woodlands. A fairly rich fauna (which includes some ground-feeding birds) is found in the extensive tracts of Polylepis in the northern parts of the Titicaca basin (Fjeldsa 1987), a highland area that is remote from lower-level habitats. However, heavy snowfall is rare in this rather dry area (Monheim 1956). At present, the largest assortment of high-altitude forest birds (30—45 species per wood- land patch) is found where Polylepis woodlands are connected with lower- level woodlands by strips of bushy vegetation or at least ‘stepping stones’ in the river gorges. There may be two reasons for this: first, that the potential dispersal corridor makes it easier for species which are reluctant to cross open terrain to move down to safety during extreme weather; and second, that it permits faunal enrichment from below. Polylepis woodlands in close contact with lower-level wood may have breeding populations of anumber of species normally associated with lower-temperate woodlands (Fjeldsa, in press). Strict high-level woodland birds (Leptasthenura yanacensis, Anairetes alpinus, Poospiza alticola) will usually manage this potentially competitive situation by staying in the rather scattered wood on rock- ledges and ridges in the very highest parts, except maybe during periods of snow. Acknowledgements The studies have been financed mainly by the Danish Natural Science Research Council (Grant J.nr 11-7829 in 1989) and the Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen. For help and company in the field during the studies of Polylepis woods I wish to thank P. Arctander, C. AuccaC., V. Baptista V., E. Bering, D. Boertmann, J. Brandbyge, O. Karsholt, N. Krabbe, D. Ricalde and B. Walker. I thank P. Arctander, N. Krabbe and J. F. Monk for their useful comments on manuscript drafts. References: Ansion, I. 1986. El arbol y el bosque en la sociedad Andina. Inst. nac. Forestal Fauna—FAO. Dorst, J. 1956. Recherches écologiques sur les oiseaux des plateaux andins du Pérou meridional. Bull. Mus. Natn. Hist. Nat., Paris 28: 435-445. Ellenberg, H. 1958. Wald oder Steppe? Die naturliche Pflanzendecke der Anden Perus. Die Umschau 21: 645-8, 679-81. Fjeldsa, J. 1987. Birds of relict forests in the high Andes of Peru and Bolivia. Technical report from the Polylepis forest expedition of the Zoological Museum, 1987, with some preliminary suggestions for habitat preservation. Zool. Mus., Copenhagen. Fjeldsa, J. 1990. Geographic variation in the Rufous-webbed Tyrant Polioxolmis rufipennis, with description of anew subspecies. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 26-31. Fjeldsa, J. in press. Relict forests in the high Andes of Peru, and their avifauna. A progress report. Proc. I symp. ecol. Peru. Fjeldsa, J. & Krabbe, N. 1990. Birds of the High Andes. A Manual to the Birds of the Temperate Zone of the Andes and Patagonia. Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, and Apollo Books, Svendborg, Denmark. M. B. Robbins & R. S. Ridgely 11 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Frimer, O. & Nielsen, S. M. 1989. The status of Polylepis forest birds and their avifauna in Cordillera Blanca, Peru. Zool. Mus., Copenhagen. Hansen, B. C. S., Wright, H. E. & Bradbury, J. P. 1984. Pollen studies in the Junin area, central Peruvian Andes. Geol. Soc. Am. Bull. 95: 1454-1465. Monheim, F. 1956. Beitrage zur Klimatologie und Hydrobiologie des Titicacabeckens. Selbstverlag des Geogr. Inst. Univ. Heidelberg. O'Neill, J. P. & Parker, T. A. 1978. Responses of birds to a snowstorm in the Andes of southern Peru. Wilson Bull. 90: 446-449. Vuilleumier, F. 1984. Patchy distribution and systematics or Oreomanes faseri (Aves, ?Coerebidae) of Andean Polylepis woodlands. Am. Mus. Novit. no. 2777. Vuilleumier, F. & Simberloff, D. 1980. Ecology vs. history as determinants of patchy and insular distributions in high Andean birds. Evolutionary Biology 12: 235-379. Address: Jon Fjeldsa, Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Sipia rosenbergi (Formicariidae) is a synonym of Myrmeciza | laemosticta / nigricauda, with comments on the validity of the genus Sipia by Mark B. Robbins & Robert S. Ridgely Received 29 Fune 1990 Abstract.—Sipia rosenbergi is a synonym of Myrmeciza [laemosticta] nigricauda. We recommend, based on vocalizations, morphology and behaviour, that both Szpia nigricauda and Sipia berlepschi be transferred to Myrmeciza. We believe that M. nigricauda and M. laemosticta are sister taxa, and that berlepschi is closely related to them. In South America, M. laemosticta ranges only from northern Colombia east to extreme western Venezuela; it does not occur along the Pacific coast of Colombia and Ecuador. The races bolivari and venezuelae of M. laemosticta do not merit recognition, and should be synonymized with M. laemosticta palliata. In July-August 1987, we and others from the Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences (ANSP) staff surveyed the avifauna at El Placer along the western base of the Andes, at c. 670m in elevation, in western Esmeraldas in extreme northwestern Ecuador. While in the field we were puzzled as to why we could find only Sipia rosenbergi, and never Myrmeciza laemosticta, as both had been reported previously from this area (Salvin & Godman 1892, Chapman 1926). Upon our return from the field, we realized that the ANSP collection did not have any material of Myrmeciza laemosticta nigricauda (the race endemic to Pacific south- western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador; Chapman 1926), even though we have good representative collections from the lowlands of this area. The taxon nigricauda was described from a female specimen collected at Intac (=Intag), Imbabura, Ecuador, in the extreme north- western corner of the country (Salvin & Godman 1892). Further puzzled by the fact that all other races of laemosticta have rufous brown and not blackish tails, we compared our series of female Sipia rosenbergi to Salvin M. B. Robbins & R.S. Ridgely 12 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) TABLE 1 Sample size, means and standard deviations of selected measurements (mm) of Myrmeciza laemosticta, M. nigricauda and M. berlepschi. Measurements were not taken of specimens in the Coleccion Ornitologica Phelps. Sexes, and subspecies of /aemosticta are pooled M. laemosticta M. nigicauda M. berlepschi (n=49) (n=18) (n= 14) Wing length (chord) 63.8 (2.6) 63.3 (1.8) 64.7 (1.7) Tail 44.9 (2.1) 46.7 (1.8) 43.1 (2.2) Tarsus 25.9 (0.9) 27.7 (0.6) 25.7 (0.6) Culmen 20.1 (0.7) 19.8 (0.9) 20.7 (1.1) and Godman’s original description of nigricauda. Although the original description lacks detail, it indicated that female nzgricauda and female rosenbergi were extremely similar, if not identical. We then examined two of the three specimens (AMNH 108049, 117861) of nigricauda that influenced Chapman’s placement of nigricauda as a race of laemosticta. These two specimens were identical to the ANSP series of female Szpza rosenbergi. We then examined virtually all material in American museums of these taxa from Colombia and Ecuador. In order to confirm our suspicion that Myrmeciza laemosticta nigricauda and Sipia rosenbergi represented the same taxon, we requested that Niels Krabbe and Nigel Collar compare the types of nigricauda and nominate laemosticta from Costa Rica, both housed at the British Museum (Natural History), Tring, with a male and female of rosenbergi collected recently in Ecuador (Zoologisk Mus., Denmark, uncatalogued; ANSP 180339, respectively). Photographs taken by Collar clearly show that on plumage characteristics the type of nigricauda 1s indistinguishable from the female rosenbergi. Measurements taken by Krabbe of wing, tail, tarsus and bill could also not distinguish these taxa (see Table 1). We quote Krabbe (zm litt.) on their comparison: “.. . the female rosenbergi is a fine match of the type of nigricauda, and there is no doubt that they are one and the same form.’ Therefore Sipia rosenbergi and Myrmeciza nigricauda are the same taxon. Female nigricauda do difter from female /aemosticta in several subtle plumage characters. The taxon nigricauda has less extensive white mark- ings on the throat (in width and in extension down the throat) than laemosticta, the tail is blackish, and the rufous brown of the back, flanks and crissum is less intense than in laemosticta. Males of these species are very different, as different, for example, as male Myrmeciza laemosticta is from M. exsul. Had the holotypes been males, there would never have been any confusion. Male /aemosticta have chestnut flanks, crissum and tail, whereas these regions are uniform slate-grey in male nigricauda. Furthermore, male laemosticta possess a well-defined black throat, unlike nigricauda which has a very indistinct blackish throat that blends into the dark grey upper chest. We have not examined a single male specimen that was labelled as WM. laemosticta nigricauda, because, not surprisingly, all the males were identified as Sipia rosenbergi! M.B. Robbins S R. S. Ridgely 13 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) Because the name nigricauda (Salvin & Godman 1892) has priority over Szpia rosenbergi (originally described as Cercomacra rosenbergi by Hartert in 1898), the valid species name becomes nigricauda. With the exclusion of nigricauda from M. laemosticta, the distribution of Myrmeciza laemosticta no longer includes the Pacific lowlands of Colombia and northwestern Ecuador (Chapman 1917, Peters 1951, Hilty & Brown 1986). This area is inhabited only by nigricauda. Moreover, the range of nigricauda in Colombia has been given as only the Rio San Juan, Choco, southward (Hilty & Brown 1986). Specimens of nigricauda in the AMNH (443294) and ANSP (147226) collections document that this species occurs at least as far north as the southern Baudo Mountains, Choco, Colombia (5°40'N, 77°16’W), and our recently collected esa (ANSP IW7593—5; Robbins & Ridgely 1990) establishes that this species also occurs as far south as the Prov. E] Oro, Ecuador. Nigricauda may range as far north as the Rio Imamado, Antioquia, Colombia (7°56'N, 76°37'W; see Fig. 1 for approximate location), as Haffer (1975) took a male there that he ascribed to MW. laemosticta nigricauda. Unfortunately, we have been unable to confirm whether this is indeed nigricauda, as the specimen apparently is deposited in Colombia (J. Haffer, im litt.). On the other hand, three female AMNH specimens (133503, 133504, 133506) that were taken at Puerto Valdivia (7°18’N, 75°23’W) and were originally identified as W. laemosticta nigricauda, are in fact M. laemosticta palliata (the latter clearly being a race of MW. laemosticta; see discussion below). Figure 1 depicts the range of laemosticta and nigricauda, based on the above clarification and re-examination of specimen data. Validity of the genus Sipia Although the above clarifies the appropriate treatment of nigricauda, it does not resolve the relationship of this species and berlepschi (the type species of the genus Sipiza), both of which are currently placed in the genus Sipia. Sipia berlepschi is another species endemic to the Pacific lowlands of western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. There has been considerable confusion on the generic placement of these taxa. Hartert (1898) originally placed the males of nigricauda and berlepschi in the genus Cercomacra. The female of berlepschi was originally described as Thamnophilus cachabiensis. Hartert (1902) was the first to recognize that Thamnophilus cachabiensis is the female of berlepschi. Hellmayr (zm Cory & Hellmayr 1924) erected the genus Sipza for the species berlepschi and rosenbergi (=nigricauda). He believed that Sipia was most closely allied with Cercomacra. He distinguished Sipia from Cercomacra by its shorter and graduated tail, narrower rectrices, and longer and larger tarsus. Since then noone seems to have questioned their generic placement until Hilty & Brown (1986), who commented that Sipia might better be included in Myrmeciza. We agree with Hilty & Brown’s suggestion, as all of Hellmayr’s dia- gnostic characters for Sipia, including the black male plumage of berlepschi, are shared by one or more species in the genus Myrmeciza. Furthermore, vocally berlepschi and nigricauda are very similar to species in the genus Myrmeciza, e.g. M. laemosticta and M. exsul (Fig. 2); their M.B. Robbins & R. S. Ridgely 14 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Figure 1. Northwestern South America depicting the distributions of Myrmeciza laemosticta (1A, nominate; 2A, palliata) and Myrmeciza nigricauda (B). It is unknown whether these taxa come into contact in extreme northwestern Colombia, as denoted by the lower question mark. An asterisk (*) indicates a specimen locality, where the species’ identity is unknown (see text). voices (call notes and song) bear no resemblance to any Cercomacra. We suspect that Hellmayr knew nothing of the voice of any of these birds when he erected Szpza and placed it next to Cercomacra. We consider voice to be a much more informative character with regard to defining formicariid generic relationships than some of the rather plastic plumage characters used by Hellmayr. Figure 2 depicts the close similarities in structure, duration, intensity, and number of notes (7-8 per song) in nigricauda, laemosticta and berlepschi. The frequency of each note in the songs of all three species rises and falls sharply. The taxon migricauda shows less of a frequency change within each note. There are overall differences in frequencies among these taxa’s songs: 4.7—5.8 kHz in nigricauda, c. 3.0—4.5 kHz in laemosticta, and c. 2.0-3.5 kHz in berlepschi (Fig. 2). More variation in the pitch of each M. B. Robbins & R. S. Ridgely 15 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) A Sheen. A Ran ing, ow PR B Figure 2. Song spectrograms of A, Myrmeciza 4 fag ge . + . i J si v nigricauda, under natural 2 conditions, July 1987, Esmeraldas, Ecuador (LNS 46620); B, Myrmeciza ‘| laemosticta, under natural Cc sh ‘ \ ‘ . \ ‘ \ v conditions, 4 March 1986, ¥' i | ] 4 | . | | Darien, Panama 2 (Ridgely); C, Myrmeciza berlepschi, after playback, 1.0 January 1983, Valle, Colombia TIME (SEC) (Ridgely). FREQUENCY (kHZ) 6 t ; “Vy species’ song exists than is presented in Figure 2, as the frequency can depend on the motivational state of the bird (natural song vs. playback). For example in nigricauda, for which we have the most vocal material, the onset of each note can range from c. 4.0 to 5.0 kHz. The taxa nigricaudaand berlepschiare also quite similar to M. laemosticta and M. exsul in plumage morphology, behaviour and habitat require- ments. The plumages of female nigricauda and M. laemosticta are extremely similar; indeed, as we described above, the difficulties that museum and field workers have had over the past century in distinguish- ing them attest to their closeness. If berlepschi’s generic placement were based solely on plumage characteristics, its inclusion in Myrmeciza might be considered more problematic. Like some of the larger Myrmeciza species (e.g. immaculata, fortis, melanoceps), male berlepschi is jet black. All black-plumaged Myrmeciza species other than berlepschi possess bare orbital areas; nevertheless, within the smaller members of this genus the presence or absence of this latter feature is quite variable. For example, laemosticta, nigricauda and berlepschi all lack the bare orbital area, whereas it is pronounced in M. exsul, a species that we consider to be more closely related to this species than to any other assemblage in Myrmeciza. The M. B. Robbins & R. S. Ridgely 16 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) female of berlepschi is also blackish except for distinct white markings to the feather edges on the throat and breast, not unlike those restricted to the throat of female nigricauda and laemosticta. All of these species inhabit the forest understory, where they typically forage in pairs for insects in dense second growth. They seem to be particularly common in shady forest ravines in the foothills. Given that berlepschi has the most differentiated plumage, has dark brown irides (both sexes of laemosticta and nigricauda have red irides), and is sympatric with nigricauda, we hypothesize that its speciation pre-dated the divergence of nigricauda and laemosticta. We suspect that berlepschi was isolated in the Choco from proto-nigricauda|laemosticta. Subsequently, mzigricauda may have also become isolated in a forest refugium in the Choco during the Quaternary period, as apparently were other endemic taxa that have close relatives in Central America and/or northern Colombia, e.g. Pteroglossus torquatus sanguineus and Ramphastos brevis (Haffer 1974). Revision of Myrmeciza laemosticta subspecies In our review, we accumulated a total of 50 specimens of palliata, bolivari and the nominate race of laemosticta. ‘Todd (1917) described the race palliata from Santander, Colombia. The locality, La Palmita, is actually in the department of Cesar, as pointed out by Paynter & Traylor (1981). Peters (1951) gave the range of palliata as ‘“‘Darién; Colombia in departments of Antioquia and Santander’’. However, Wetmore (1972) recognized that only the Central American nominate race occurred in Panama, and that palliata was restricted to northern Colombia. Meyer de Schauensee (1950) described the race bolivari from Quimari, Bolivar, Colombia. This type locality actually lies in the department of Cordoba, north of the Cordoba/Antioquia border (see Paynter & Traylor 1981), c. 300 km east of the type locality of palliata. Meyer de Schauensee characterized bolivari as duller, more olivaceous dorsally and on the flanks than palliata. However, we do not find this distinction to hold up when seven specimens, including the type, of bolivari are compared to a series of palliata. A single male specimen taken at Del Cerro Ayapa, Zulia, Venezuela, c. 200 km northeast of the type locality of bolivari, was described by Aveledo & Gines (1949) as a new race, Myrmeciza laemosticta venezuelae. ‘This specimen was purported to have a greyer head and less reddish on the back, crissum and upper tail-coverts than palliata. Aveledo & Gines were apparently unaware that four of the six specimens of supposed palliata that they compared to their type of venezuelae were actually of the very distinct nominate race of Central America. These four specimens (1 male, 3 females) were from Panama; as mentioned above, Wetmore (1972) correctly ascertained that all Panamanian laemosticta are referable to the nominate race. Had Aveledo & Gines had a series of true palliata from northern Colombia they likely would have realized that their type specimen of venezuelae was actually a typical example of palliata. M. B. Robbins S R. S. Ridgely 17 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) The type of Myrmeciza laemosticta venezuelae was originally deposited in the Coleccion Ornitologica Phelps in Caracas, but then transferred to the AMNH, where it remains uncatalogued with a large group of types from the Phelps Collection. Ridgely compared the type to a male palliata (AMNH 133504) and found them to be indistinguishable. In addition, our colleague, John Guarnaccia, compared a pair of our bolivari (ANSP 160843, 160844; as mentioned above these are indis- tinguishable from a series of palliata) with 11 specimens of venezuelae (all collected since venezuelae was described) that are housed in the Coleccion Ornitologica Phelps. We quote Guarnaccia on his comparison of the ANSP ‘bolivar?’ specimens with the venezuelae material: “ANSP 160843, 160844 are essentially identical to the venezuelae series in the Phelps collection.’’ Moreover, he noted that the series of venezuelae was quite different from two Panamanian specimens (49505, 49506) labelled as palliata in the Phelps collection. As Guarnaccia recognized, these two mis-labelled specimens represent typical examples of the nominate race. Thus, given the above confusion with what nominate and palliata races of laemosticta really looked like, it is not surprizing that venezuelae was erroneously described. One final comment, and one that further illustrates that palliata and venezuelae are indeed indistinguishable, should be made regarding the subspecific identification of Venezuelan laemosticta specimens. Peters (1951) listed a specimen from La Azulito (= La Azulita), Merida, under venezuelae. However, he added a footnote to the effect that W. H. Phelps had determined that this specimen was actually referable to palliata. Interestingly, Phelps later reversed his opinion, as he included this speci- men under venezuelae in the second edition of the Venezuelan Passeriform Checklist (1963). We find that this specimen (CM 90393), from the easternmost locality for any Venezuelan /aemosticta, is indistinguishable from material from the westernmost locality (Rio Sinu, Cordoba) of palliata (USMN 411505-6, 411597, 411593). We conclude that neither bolivari nor venezuelae merit recognition. We recommend synonymizing both names under palliata. The ranges of recognized subspecies of Myrmecizalaemostictamay thus be summarized: M. laemosticta laemosticta: Costa Rica and Panama (east to Darien). M. laemosticta palliata: northern Colombia (Sinu Valley eastward) and western Venezuela (Zulia, Mérida). Acknowledgements We especially thank Fausto Sarmiento, Juan Carlos Matheus and Miguel Moreno of the Museo Ecuatoriano de Ciencias Naturales de Quito, for logistical and field assistance in Ecuador. The Ministerio de Agricultura kindly provided authorization for our work in Ecuador. We are grateful to Niels Krabbe and Nigel Collar for examining and photograph- ing type specimens in the British Museum (Natural History) at Tring. John Guarnaccia compared ANSP material with aseries of Myrmeciza laemosticta venezuelae in the Coleccion Ornitologica Phelps in Caracas, Venezuela. We thank Greg Bundey and Bob Grotke of the Library of Natural Sounds, Cornell University, New York, for use of vocal material and help in spectrogram preparation. Mort and Phyllis Isler graciously provided spectrograms of selected formicariid taxa. Jurgen Haffer provided information on specimen deposition. Kenneth Parkes, Thomas Schulenberg, Douglas Stotz and Guy Tudor made many helpful comments on the manuscript. We extend our gratitude to the following institutions for M. B. Robbins & R. S. Ridgely 18 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) specimen loans; American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), Carnegie Museum of Natural History (CM), Coleccion Ornitologica Phelps (COP), Field Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution (USNM). References: Aveledo H., R. & Gines, H. 1949. Ave nueva para la ciencia. Novedades Cientificas. Ser. Zool. no. 1. Chapman, F. M. 1917. The distribution of bird-life in Colombia. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 36: 1-729. Chapman, F. M. 1926. The distribution of bird-life in Ecuador. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 60: 1-784. Cory, C. B. & Hellmayr, C. E. 1924. Catalogue of birds of the Americas and the adjacent islands. Pt. 3. Publ. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. no. 223. Haffer, J. 1974. Avian speciation in tropical South America. Publ. Nuttall Orn. Cl. no. 14. Haffer, J. 1975. Avifauna of northwestern Colombia, South America. Bonn. Zool. Monogr. no. 7. Hartert, E. 1898. [New descriptions of birds from Ecuador.] Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 7: 29. Hartert, E. 1902. Some further notes on the birds of north-west Ecuador. Novit. Zool. 9: 599-617. Hilty, S. L. & Brown, W. L. 1986. A Guide to the Birds of Colombia. Princeton Univ. Press. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1950. Colombian zoological survey. Part 5. New birds from Colombia. Notulae Naturae no. 221. Paynter, R. A., Jr. & Traylor, M. A., Jr. 1981. Ornithological gazetteer of Colombia. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Phelps, W. H. & Phelps W. H., Jr. 1963. Lista de las aves de Venezuela y su distribucion. Vol. 1, Pt. 2. Passeriformes, 2nd edn. Bol. Soc. Venez. Cienc. Nat. 24: 104, 105. Peters, J. L. 1951. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 7. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Robbins, M. B. & Ridgely, R. S. 1990,. The avifauna of an Upper Tropical Cloud Forest in Southwestern Ecuador. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 142: 59-71. Salvin, O. S. & Godman, F. D. 1892. Biologia Centrali- Americana. Vol. 2 (Aves): 230. Todd, W. E. C. 1917. New genera, species, and subspecies of South American birds. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 30: 127-130. Wetmore, A. 1972. The birds of the Republic of Panama. Pt. 3. Smithson. Misc. Coll. 150(3). Address: Dept. of Ornithology, Academy of Natural Sciences, 19th and The Parkway, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Appendix 1. Specimens examined Myrmeciza laemosticta laemosticta. COSTA RICA: 4 males, 4 females (AMNH); 4 males, 2 females (CM); 1 male (ANSP). PANAMA: 6 males, 4 females (USNM); 2 males, 1 female (COP). Myrmeciza laemosticta palliata. COLOMBIA: 1 male (AMNH); 5 males, 5 females (USNM); 1 male, 1 female (CM). Myrmeciza laemosticta “bolivari’’. COLOMBIA: 2 males, 2 females (USNM); 2 males, 1 female (ANSP). Myrmeciza laemosticta ‘“‘venezuelae’. VENEZUELA: 3 males, 8 females (COP); 1 male (AMNB). Myrmeciza nigricauda. COLOMBIA: 2 males, 3 females (USNM); 5 males, 1 female (ANSP). ECUADOR: 2 males, 5 females (ANSP). Myrmeciza berlepschi. COLOMBIA: 10 males, 3 females (ANSP). ECUADOR: 1 male (ANSP). S. D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B.M. Beehler 19 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Notes on birds from the Upper Noa Dihing, Arunachal Pradesh, Northeastern India by S. Dillon Ripley, S. S. Saha & Bruce M. Beehler Received 2 Fuly 1990 Between the years 1979 and 1988, under the sponsorship of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), and Smithsonian Institution (USNM), the authors conducted eight ornitho- logical field trips to the valley of the Noa Dihing River, in the Changlang District (formerly eastern Tirap Dist.) of Arunachal Pradesh, northeast- ern India (Fig. 1a,b). The main purpose of the research was to document the area’s unsurveyed forest avifauna (Ghosh 1987). Initial biological interest in this isolated watershed resulted from the proposal to establish the 2000 km? Namdapha National Park in the middle and upper segments of the valley. This tract received formal park status in 1983. Our survey studies were conducted at localities in and outside the park boundaries. These indicate that there has been significant degradation of the forests and forest faunas in the unprotected areas. It is thus necessary to make every effort to ensure that the Namdapha National Park receives adequate protection from poaching and illegal extraction of forest products of all kinds. Here we present the highlights of our ornithological observations. A complete account of the expeditions and their findings will appear sub- sequently (Ripley et al., MS). In the following pages we treat 22 species that are of taxonomic and distributional interest. In our accounts, we follow the sequence and nomenclature of Ripley (1982). Specimens treated to the subspecific level were identified by comparison with material in the collections of the U.S. National Museum of Natural History (Washington, D.C.), the American Museum of Natural History (New York), the Zoological Survey of India (Calcutta), the Bombay Natural History Society (Bombay), and the British Museum (Natural History) (Tring). Our specimens have been deposited in the collections of the USNM, ZSI, and BNHS. All length measurements are in millimetres, all weights in grammes. Altitudes of the six field camps mentioned in the text and featured in Figure 1b are as follows: 40-mile Camp 800m, 77-mile Camp 1000 m, Gandhigram Camp 1050 m, Ramnagar Camp 1150 m, Vijaynagar Station 1250m, Lone Camp 1350m, Upper (or First Upper) Camp 1500 m, Ridgetop (Second Upper) Camp 2500 m. WHITE-WINGED WOOD DUCK Cairina scutulata On 8 March 1988, SSS observed a flock of more than 200 in inundated paddy fields near Gandhigram. On 13 March 1988, the research team observed a single individual flying over Vijaynagar station. Birds cap- tured near Miao have been caged for captive breeding under a program directed by the Arunachal Pradesh Department of Forests. S.D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B.M. Beehler 20 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) PEREGRINE FALCON Falco peregrinus A single, freshly plumaged adult, perched on a dead limb beside the river at Ramnagar, was observed by BB on 9 February 1988. By plumage the bird was identifiable as the race japonensis. BAMBOO PARTRIDGE Bambusicola fytchii This was the common galliform of the riverine scrub at the Ramnagar Camp in February 1988 and in cut-over scrub around Gandhigram in March 1988. It travelled in small parties, and flushed easily. We heard the species give a complex, strident but musical vocalization, given by several birds at once. It was most commonly heard in the early morning. The birds consumed rice grains left in the fields adjacent to the river. INDIAN JUNGLE NIGHTJAR Caprimulgus indicus jotaka Our single specimen, a female (ova small), mist-netted in a stand of wild banana at Ramnagar on the night of 16 February 1988, represents the third record of this race in the Indian region (Abdulali & Hussain 1971), and the first from northeastern India. The two other records are from western Bhutan and from a boat at sea, 60 miles northeast of Port Blair, Andaman Islands. We presume that our bird is a wintering migrant from China (Cheng 1987). Weight: 77. ORANGE-BILLED JUNGLE MYNA Acridotheres javanicus On 8 March 1988, at Gandhigram, BB observed a pair foraging in the company of Common Mynas A. tristis. The pair of javanicus was con- siderably more wary than the individuals of tristis. SSS reports that the species is common in the lower Noa Dihing. These represent the first records of this species for Arunachal Pradesh. CORAL-BILLED SCIMITAR BABBLER Pomatorhinus ferruginosus namdapha Specimens collected by BB and SSS in 1988 from the upper Noa Dihing (Lone Camp) agree perfectly with the description of the race namdapha, based on specimens obtained at 40-mile Camp in 1979 (Ripley 1980), and support the validity of this new subspecies, still known only from this watershed. SLENDER-BILLED SCIMITAR BABBLER Xiphirhynchus superciliaris intextus ‘Three specimens from the upper Noa Dihing, collected in 1988, are indistinguishable from the unique type of intextus (Ripley 1948), collected at Dreyi, Mishmi Hills, 50 miles to the northwest. Our new specimens also closely approximate a single specimen from northwestern Yunnan (topo- typical forrestz). Further comparison of relevant material from northern Burma and Yunnan may show intextus to be synonymous with that subspecies. Most notable about this species, aside from its remarkably decurved bill, is the variability of the iris colouration. We have records of the following iris colours: red, brown, dark brown, rose, tan, pale grey, and stone yellow. We speculate that the variability in iris colour may relate in some way to sex- and age-related social signalling among members of the small flocks (family groups?) of this species that travel through the thick undergrowth. S.D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B.M. Beehler 21 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) LONG-BILLED WREN-BABBLER Rimator m. malacoptilus Our two specimens, mist-netted in forest undergrowth, are indis- tinguishable from material from Sikkim. This elusive species has been encountered only a handful of times in the last fifty years (Koelz 1954, Smythies 1986, Ali & Ripley 1987, van Marle & Voous 1988). STREAKED LONG-TAILED WREN-BABBLER Spelaeornis c. chocolatinus We collected two specimens in the upper Noa Dihing (Lone Camp) in 1988. This is the first record of this species from Arunachal Pradesh. In plumage these agree with the nominate race. They are distinct from topotypical reptatus from northern Burma, but a single female from northwestern Yunnan is virtually indistinguishable from our birds. LONG-TAILED SPOTTED WREN-BABBLER Spelaeornis troglodytoides Our two specimens, taken at the Ridgetop Camp in March 1988, are the first for Arunachal Pradesh. The only other specimens from the Indian region were taken in Bhutan by F. Ludlow and B. Biswas. Our material is distinct from the Bhutanese population (sherriffi; Kinnear 1934) and from the other closest forms (souliei and rocki; Riley 1929) that occur in the mountains to the northeast. We thus propose to name the newly- discovered population from the upper Noa Dihing River: Spelaeornis troglodytoides indiraji subsp. nov. Holotype. U.S. National Museum No. 585852, adult male (testes small), collected at the Ridgetop (= Second Upper) Camp, 4 March 1988, 2500 m altitude, Noa Dihing River, Changlang District, Arunachal Pradesh, India (27°15’N, 96°52’E), by S. S. Saha, and prepared by Bruce M. Beehler and C. K. Misra; field number SDR 590. Paratype. Z.S.1. field no. B7; adult male (testes small). Date and location of collection as for holotype. Diagnosis. Differs from all other races of S. troglodytoides by the black- ish crown and nape marked with a mixture of pale spotting and fine barring of grey-brown, forming a distinct cap that contrasts with the brown of the upper back. Unlike all other races, most nape feathers are distinctly barred with three or more dark bands. Finally, the upper sur- face of tail and exposed edges of secondaries and primaries are washed with dull brownish-grey rather than brown or rich brown. S. t. sherriffi, of Bhutan, is most similar to this new population. Indiraji differs by the following additional characters: (1) pale spotting on crown and nape reduced; and (2) reduced pale spotting on mantle and back. From S. t. souliei, of northeastern Burma, southeastern Tibet, and northwestern Yunnan, indiraji differs in: (1) the deep russet (not buff- tan) flanks; (2) grey-and-black (not buff-and-black) barred tail; (3) the distinct break between the blackish nape and the chestnut back; and (4) the darker, richer colours of the dorsal plumage. The race rocki, from Yunnan east of souliez, is even paler than souliei and quite distinct from the Noa Dihing birds. The nominate race, from Sichuan, lacks any of the chestnut colouration in the plumage, and also differs in that the crown, nape, and back are concolorous. In measurements our birds are not separable from any of the other races. Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) 22 S.D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B. M. Beehler HSAdVIONVa FOOTL (nbtyziz suezty) Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) 23 S.D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B. M. Beehler ‘dued ajtw-(p ‘9g dure aytwi-7 7 ‘7 ‘died doyaspry ‘9 ‘durea ssddy ‘¢ ‘dwieg suo7 ‘p ‘wieistypuey ‘¢ Siesevuurey ‘7 ‘reseudels, ‘] “sdures Apnjs JO sajIs pastaquinu yyIM ‘vale Suryiq eon taddn jo deyyy ‘(1Y4S311) q ‘xoq ul vaie Apnjs YIM eIPUT UJo}seayiioU Jo deyyy ‘(3JeT) B | eANSIY ssed ueyneyy euLIng oN eIpul] / ueqeg le asuey ung eydeq WSapeid ee S. D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B.M. Beehler 24 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Measurements of the holotype. wing arc 51; wing chord 48.5; bill from skull 13.5; exposed culmen 9; tail 54; tarsus 21. Iris brown. Distribution. Collected during the non-breeding season in the moun- tains on the northern side of the Noa Dihing River (locality 6 in Fig. 1b). It is known only from the type locality, but we presume it ranges through the mountains, above 2500m, throughout the India/Burma border ranges from Nagaland to northernmost Arunachal Pradesh. Specimens examined. (souliei): Yunnan, AMNH 573697, 573698; N. Burma, 307118, 307119, 307120; (rocki): Yunnan, USNM, 296784, 312284; (tndiraji): Arunachal Pradesh, USNM 585852, ZSI field no. B7; (troglodytoides): Sichuan, USNM 321880, 33300; (sherriffi): eastern Bhutan, BMNH 11.16.34 (holotype), ZSI 38520. Etymology. Indiraji is dedicated to the memory of our beloved friend and foremost member of the Delhi Birdwatching Society, the late Prime Minister of India, Smt. Indira Gandhi. Remarks. Given the presence of sherriffi to the west, and souliez and rocki to the northeast, it is not surprising that a population of this species occurs in the border ranges. Furthermore, we would expect future researchers to find the bird in the easternmost Himalayas of western, central, and north- western Arunachal Pradesh. As our birds were collected in a habitat that received significant snowfall in March, we suspect that the population is a high altitude breeder. It presumably inhabits only ranges that exceed 3000 m altitude. WEDGE-BILLED WREN Sphenocichla humei roberti This species, one of India’s little-known birds, was last collected in 1905 (Stevens 1914). We collected a series of birds, which agree well with the race roberti. We netted 4 at the Upper Camp on 28 February 1988, and an additional 2 at Lone Camp on 6 March 1988. All were taken in thick undergrowth of regenerating forest. Efforts to find and observe free- ranging birds in the forest failed. Weights were as follows: male 37.2; female 31, 31.2; unsexed 29.2, 41, 43. AUSTEN‘S SPOTTED BABBLER Stachyris oglei ‘To our knowledge, this species has been collected only twice before our encounters: first in the Mishmi Hills above Sadiya by Godwin-Austen (Ah & Ripley 1987) and subsequently in the Patkai Range by Baker and Coltart (who received specimens from Naga tribal collectors; see Baker 1922). We mist-netted 7 specimens in the middle Noa Dihing (40-mile Camp, 12—24 March 1979). Although Coltart stated that the iris colour is crimson (see Ali & Ripley 1987), our birds had the following iris colours: brown, dull brownish red, and reddish brown. Iris colour was not readily correlated with age or sex. Weights: male 31, 32, 34, 36; female 28, 30, 31. GREY-SIDED LAUGHING THRUSH Garrulax caerulatus livingstoni Our specimens, taken at the Lone Camp on 27 and 28 February 1988, agree with the race livingstont (Ripley 1952) collected in the Naga Hills, Cachar, and Manipur. This is a first record for Arunachal Pradesh. BLUE-WINGED LAUGHING THRUSH Garrulax squamatus Our series of six exhibits the plumage dimorphism mentioned by Baker (1922: 175). Examination of material at the American Museum confirms S.D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B.M. Beehler 25 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) the general impression that the black-throated, black-tailed birds are usually males, and that the rufous-throated, brown-tailed individuals are nearly invariably females. Birds with intermediate plumage occur and can be of either sex. We have a single black-throated specimen that is labelled as female. There is some possibility that this is a product of mis-labelling, as three individuals of this species were collected and prepared together. It thus appears that the dimorphism is sex-related. FIRE-TAILED MYZORNIS Myzornis pyrrhoura We collected six at the Second Upper Camp, on 5 March 1988. These are the first records of the species south of the Brahmaputra River. The nearest Indian records are from Pachakshiri, more than 350 km to the northwest. The species has also been taken in western Yunnan (Cheng 1987). THE Alcippe vinipectus GROUP At least twenty distinct populations of small tit-babblers are subsumed in the Alcippe vinipectus group, traditionally broken into four species: vinipectus, striaticollis, cinereiceps, and ruficapilla. Based on new material collected in the Noa Dihing, we suggest a fifth species-level taxon (ludlowi), and note that the group exemplifies an explosive radiation of morphologically similar forms that would merit additional study. The species taxa can be readily distinguished as follows: (1) dark facial mask present = winipectus; (2) no distinct markings on face or head = ludlowz; (3) mask absent, dark supercilium laterally enclosing reddish-brown crown distinct from colour of mantle and back = ruficapilla; (4) mask absent, dark supercilium of variable distinctness, crown much like mantle = cinereiceps; and (5) dark streaking on both crown and throat = striaticollis. WHITE-BROWED TIT-BABBLER Alcippe vinipectus perstriata We collected four from the Ridgetop (Second Upper) Camp, at 2500 m, 4 March 1988. These are the first specimens from eastern Arunachal Pradesh. We compared our material with specimens from Sikkim, Tibet (Chumbi Valley), northern Burma, western Burma and western Yunnan. Birds from Sikkim, Chumbi Valley and western Burma (Mt Victoria) all differ in having a brown (not black) mask. Ours agree closely with material from Yunnan (bzetz) but for its reduced streaking on the throat. Specimens from northern Burma (perstriata) agree perfectly (see Stanford & Mayr 1941). This is a first record of A. v. perstriata from Indian territory. BROWN-HEADED TIT-BABBLER Alcippe ludlowi In 1934, Frank Ludlow collected specimens of a distinct Alcippe popu- lation in eastern Bhutan that was described by Norman Kinnear (1935) as anew species, /udlowz. It differed from all other known populations by the lack of any white or blackish patterning on the head or face and the rich reddish-brown nape, ear, and mantle. Deignan (1964) subsumed this population into cinereiceps, the nearest population being manipurensis from Nagaland and Manipur. Although ludlowi and manipurensis originally could justifiably be con- sidered geographic replacements and treated as subspecies, specimens we collected from the Ridgetop Camp in March 1988 indicate otherwise. S.D. Ripley, S.S. Saha & B.M. Beehler 26 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) There we collected both manipurensis and ludlowi (as well as A. vinipectus perstriata). Although these specimens were taken in the non-breeding season, there is no published evidence of geographic movement of any Alcippe populations. These birds were collected high on an isolated massif and are presumably year-round resident isolates living in true sympatry. This clear evidence of micro-sympatry requires us to consider ludlowi and manipurensis distinct biological species. We thus elevate ludlowi to species status. We have given this bird the name Brown-headed Tit- babbler to highlight the most prominent feature of this species. Morphologically, A. ludlow7 is undeniably distinct from all other popu- lations in the genus Alcippe. It is the only taxon with the deep red-brown hood, and the only uniformly dark-headed form that totally lacks facial patterning or superciliary striping. Our material from the Ridgetop Camp is darker and richer-plumaged than available material from Bhutan (a specimen collected in 1934). Since this difference may be a product of foxing, we shall await further examination of more material before deciding whether the Noa Dihing population merits a new name. GREY-HEADED TIT-BABBLER Alcippe cinereiceps manipurensis Alcippe cinereiceps is a high altitude species that, as now defined, is distributed from Manipur, Nagaland, and eastern Arunachal Pradesh eastward to Burma, southern China, ‘Taiwan, and Indochina. Our speci- mens generally agree with the subspecies manipurensis, known from Nagaland and Manipur eastward to Yunnan. We suggest this species be known as Grey-headed Tit-babbler, to distinguish it from the brown- headed ludlow2. RUSTY-BELLIED SHORTWING Brachypteryx hyperythra This is another northeastern Himalayan endemic that is rarely encoun- tered. Two males were collected at 77-mile Camp by SSS on 31 January and 7 February 1987. A single female was mist-netted at the Ramnagar Camp on 15 February 1988 (weight 14.9). Cheng (1987) notes a single record from Yunnan (western Gongshan), the first from outside the Indian region. It should be looked for in northern Burma. BLUE-FRONTED ROBIN Cinclidium frontale orientale Previous Indian specimens came from Nepal, Sikkim, and Darjeeling. Our two males (40-mile Camp, 17 March 1979; Lone Camp, 28 February 1988) are apparently the first of this century for the Indian region (Ali 1962). Remarkably, this species has long been known from two disjunct popu- lations, one in the eastern Himalayas (nominate race), the other in Indochina (orientale, from Tonkin and Laos). Only recently has a Thai population been recorded, from Chieng Mai, Thailand (USNM specimen no. 535608, coll. B. King, 1965). Our specimens agree with the material from Thailand and Tonkin (orientale). Nominate frontale differs in having a brownish wash on the abdomen, highlighted by ‘‘whitish on the centre abdomen and undertail coverts’’ (Baker 1924: 108). Thus frontale occurs west of the Brahmaputra River, and orientale to the east. All specimens examined (3 at USNM, 2 at S.D. Ripley, S.S.Saha& B.M.Beehler 27 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) AMWNH)havethe concealed white patch under the bend of the wing, absent from the more common Cinclidium leucurum (also recorded from the Noa Dihing). Weights: 25.5, 29. RED-HEADED TIT Aegithalos concinnus manipurensis Our two specimens, collected in riverine scrub on 18 February 1988, are assignable to the population inhabiting the border ranges of the Brahmaputra (manipurensis) because of the rich rufous-buff of the breast. Birds from Sikkim and Nepal (rubricapillus) are paler ventrally. Speci- mens from Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tonkin (talifuensis) show a more prominent and better-delineated white patch on the abdomen. CHESTNUT BUNTING Emberiza rutila Our male (Ridgetop Camp, 7 March 1988) is a first record for Arunachal Pradesh of this winter migrant from Siberia and Manchuria. There is only a handful of records of this species from the Indian region (Ali & Ripley 1987). Weight: 18.8. Acknowledgements We thank F. Berkowitz and the Smithsonian Special Foreign Currency Fund for support of this field work. We were able to conduct field research in Arunachal Pradesh through kind permission of the Government of India, Department of Environment. Valuable assistance was provided by the Zoological Survey of India, Bombay Natural History Society, the American Embassy in Delhi, and the following individuals: Salim Ali, V. C. Agrawal, Tape Bagra, C. K. Misra, G. Noroian, B. Roy, K. R. Subramaniam and D. E. Wilson. References: Abdulali, H. & Hussain, S. A. 1971. A second record of the migratory Jungle Nightjar (Caprimulgus indicus jotaka’Temm. & Schl.) in Indian limits. 7. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 68: 451-452. Ali, S. 1962. The Birds of Sikkim. Oxford University Press. Ahi, S. & Ripley, S. D. 1987. Compact Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan, 2nd Edn. Oxford University Press. Baker, E. C.S. 1922. The Fauna of British India. Birds—Vol. I. Taylor & Francis. Baker, E. C.S. 1924. The Fauna of British India. Birds—Vol. I1. Taylor & Francis. Cheng, Tso-hsin. 1987. A Synopsts of the Avifauna of China. Paul Parey Sci. Publ. Deignan, H. G. 1964. The Timaliinae. Pp. 240-427 in E. Mayr & R. A. Paynter, Jr. (eds) Check-List of Birds of the World. Vol. 10. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Ghosh, A. K. 1987. Final Technical Report | on] Qualitative Analysis of Faunal Resources of the Proposed Namdapha Biosphere Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh. Zoological Survey of India, Calcutta. Kinnear, N. B. 1934. [A new race of Long-tailed Wren from Bhutan.] Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 54: 107-109. Kinnear, N. B. 1935. [A new fulvetta from Bhutan.] Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 55: 134. Koelz, W. 1954. Ornithological studies. Contrib. Inst. for Reg. Explor. 1: 1-33. Marle, J. G. van & Voous, K. H. 1988. The birds of Sumatra. B.O.U. Check-list no. 10, British Ornithologists’ Union. Riley, J. H. 1929. Anew wren of the genus Spelaeornis from Yunnan, China. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 42: 213-214. Ripley, S. D. 1948. New birds from the Mishmi Hills. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 61: 99-110. Ripley, S. D. 1952. A collection of birds from the Naga Hills. ¥. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 50: 475-514. Ripley, S. D. 1980. A new species and subspecies of bird from the Tirap District, Arunachal Pradesh. 7. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 77: 1-5. Ripley, S. D. 1982. A Synopsis of the Birds of India and Pakistan. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. Ripley, S. D., Saha, S. S. & Beehler, B. M. MS. Avifauna of the Noa Dihing Valley and Namdapha National Park, eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Smiths. Contrib. Zool. A. Townsend Peterson 28 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Smythies, B. E. 1986. The Birds of Burma. Nimrod Press, & Silvio Mattachione. Stanford, J. K. & Mayr, E. 1941. The Vernay-Cutting Expedition to northern Burma. II. Ibis (14)5: 56-104. Stevens, H. 1914. Notes on the birds of upper Assam. Pt. 1. ¥7. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 23: 234-268. Addresses: Drs S. Dillon Ripley and B. M. Beehler, NHB Room 336, Smithsonian Insti- tution, Washington, D.C. 20560, U.S.A.; Mr S.S. Saha, Zoological Survey of India, ‘M’ Block, New Alipur, Calcutta 700053, India. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 New distributional information on the Aphelocoma jays by A. Townsend Peterson Received 16 Fuly 1990 Thorough knowledge of patterns of distribution is crucial to understand- ing the ecology and historical biogeography of species (Mayr 1963). For example, in certain situations, the existence of peripheral isolate popu- lations can lend support to hypotheses of relictual distribution (e.g. Fitzpatrick & O’ Neill 1979). Discovery of populations inhabiting unusual habitats can change interpretations of ecological restriction and historical biogeography (e.g. Peterson & Vargas, in press). Thus, documentation of range extensions , especially those providing new information on the range of habitats that a species can utilize, is important. Pitelka (1951, 1961) summarized the distribution and ecology of the three species of Aphelocoma jays. His work, based on virtually all of the specimens in North American museums (4817 in total) and a thorough review of the literature, revealed many interesting geographic patterns. Nevertheless, specimens and other information were insufficient to allow a thorough understanding of the distribution and geographic vari- ation of the jays in several areas. Because the behaviour, ecology, and evolution of the Aphelocoma jays is of intense interest (e.g. Woolfenden & Fitzpatrick 1984, Brown & Horvath 1989), accurate information on distribution and ecology of the group 1s especially important. ‘This paper is intended to provide new information on the distribution and ecology of the three species of Aphelocoma jays. This information has been amassed during extensive field work in the United States and “Mexico during 1986-89, discussions with other scientists, and reviews of most major museum collections in the United States and Mexico. Several range extensions are described, and the taxonomic implications of the two most significant are discussed. Results Below is asummary of new distributional information for each of the three species, listed in north-to-south order. Several new records were A. Townsend Peterson 29 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) discussed by Pitelka (1961), including important new specimens of A. ultramarina from central Mexico. Abbreviations for museums are as follows: CAS: California Academy of Sciences; FMNH: Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago; LACM: Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History; MZFC: Museo de Zoologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico; SBCoMNH: San Bernardino County Museum of Natural History, California; and MLVZ: Moore Laboratory of Vertebrate Zoology, Occidental College, California. SCRUB JAY A. coerulescens Idaho—ranges N to Bannock Co., Pocatello, Scout Mountain, in open juniper-pine woodland (P. E. Lowther, pers. comm.). Wyoming—range in southern part of state more extensive, with the jays living in open juniper-Mountain Mahogany (Cerocarpus montanus) woodland N to central Sweetwater County in the southwest part of the state (Fitton & Scott 1984). Texas—range more extensive in central part of state (subspecies texana), reaching W to between Ozona and Sonora and to between Big Lake and Mertzon, N to just S of Abilene, and E to Bexar Co. and Austin (Dixon 1952, B. Burt, pers. comm.). California/Arizona—fall and winter records from along the lower Colorado River basin and S of the Salton Sea are now much more numerous, with several specimens (SBCoMNH 36420, LACM 46037), and numerous sight records reported in the past decade in American Birds. The apparent increase is most likely due to the presence of more observers in the area. A detailed analysis of the source populations for these individuals is in progress (Peterson, unpubl.). Mexico, Coahuila—sight records extend the range of the species about 160 km N to the mountains W of Santa Teresa, in the vicinity of Monclova (Fig. 1, A; A. Garza de Leon, pers. comm). However, a defi- nite gap of about 420 km remains in the species’ distribution between this site and the populations of western Texas (Pitelka 1951, Miller 1955). Sierra Madre Occidental—extensive new series of specimens and sight records (Miller et al. 1957, Peterson, unpubl. data) extend the range of the species S along the full extent of the Sierra Madre Occidental through Durango, Zacatecas (Fig. 1, B) and northeastern Jalisco (Fig. 1, C). Localities include the following: Zacatecas, in the vicinity of Sombrerete (CAS 61718, 61862-3, 62799, FMNH 343462-6), and in the vicinity of Valparaiso (pers. obs.); and Jalisco, in the vicinity of Lagos de Moreno (F MNH 343452-61), at various sites along the road from Lagos de Moreno N to El Puesto, and 2 km N of El Mosco. In contrast to the usual pattern of habitat use (pinyon or oak woodland), the Jaliscan records were in riparian woodlands of aleguminous tree called “‘pirul’’, while in Zacatecas, the jays were in low open juniper woodland or very open pinyon-juniper wood- land (Peterson & Vargas, in press). Subspecific relationships of these populations are discussed below. A record from Nayarit, 15 mi NW of Lagos (CAS 62800), appears to be erroneous, perhaps actually from Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, as neither the locality nor other records of the species exist in Nayarit (Escalante 1988, pers. obs.). A. Townsend Peterson 30 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) WOODHOUSEII Pacific Ocean SUMICHRASTI Figure 1. Distribution of Scrub Jays in Mexico. Indicated by letters are new range exten- sions, north to south, in (A) Coahuila, (B) Sierra Madre Occidental, (C) Jalisco and Guanajuato, (D) Guerrero, (E) Puebla and (F) Oaxaca. Guanajuato—several specimens now exist from 2—9 km W of Dolores Hidalgo (Fig. 1, C; various specimens in MLVZ). Although no habitat data on these populations are available, these localities lie in open desert with occasional patches of shrubland or riparian woodland (pers. obs.). Subspecific relationships of these populations are discussed below. A. Townsend Peterson 31 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Guerrero—three specimens were obtained from the Sierra de Taxco, 5km N of Taxco, on 30 Dec 1988 in pine-oak woodland, representing the first record of the species from northern Guerrero or from the southern Neovolcanic Belt (Fig. 1, D; Morales Perez 1989). Subspecific relationships of these populations are discussed below. Puebla—in the southernmost part of the state, 7 km W of Las Sidras, at least three territorial pairs of jays were observed in desert scrub/ riparian woodland, filling in a gap in the species’ range (Fig. 1, E) and providing an interesting new ecological situation for the species in southern Mexico. Oaxaca—range extends farther S to the interior slope of the Sierra de Miahuatlan, 10-20 km S of Sola de Vega (Fig. 1, F). GRAY-BREASTED JAY A. ultramarina Guerrero—recorded from the Sierra de Taxco (Morales Perez 1989, pers. obs.), constituting a southward range extension of about 50 km, and the first record of the species for the state of Guerrero. UNICOLORED JAY A. unicolor Sierra Madre Oriental—Four specimens (FMNH 343729, three in MZFC uncatalogued) from 5km E of Tlanchinol, in northeastern Hidalgo, and sight records from Tenango de Dorio, in southeastern Hidalgo (Jerram Brown, pers. comm.), extend the species’ range about 150 km NW to near the northeastern limit of true cloud forest habitats in Mexico. These specimens are similar in morphology and colouration to specimens taken in central Veracruz, and are only moderately geneti- cally differentiated from populations in the Zempoaltépetl region of Oaxaca (i.e. frequency differences only; Peterson, in prep.). The status of unicolor in Veracruz and Puebla is very uncertain, with few records since a 1948 specimen and a 1985 sight record from near Teziutlan, Puebla (FMNH 187300; T. Davis, pers. comm.). Extensive searching on the slopes of Cofre de Perote above Xico (vicinities of Ticuahutipan, Xico Viejo, Teocelo), Veracruz, in June 1985—June 1986 and January 1989 (A. G. Navarro S., pers. comm.; pers. obs.) yielded neither sightings of this species nor extensive appropriate habitat. Guerrero—range extends farther W and S into the vicinity of the Sierra de Atoyac, El Iris (specimens: FMNH 343590-3, MZFC 4021-3), but earlier records from Mount Teotepec (Miller et al. 1957) may refer to this area, instead of the higher-elevation Mount Teotepec proper (A. G. Navarro S., pers. comm.). In spite of statements to the contrary by Phillips (1986), unicolor is still present and common at the type locality of the subspecies guerrerensis, Omiltemi. Jalisco—a sight record from the Sierra de Manantlan, above El Grullo (Beals & Rusterholz 1981), is apparently erroneous, given extensive field observation and collecting in the area concerned (pers. obs.). Discussion In order to understand the implications of these new populations of Aphelocoma jays for the overall picture of geographic variation in the A. Townsend Peterson 32 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) genus, I made comparisons with existing series of specimens in the Field Museum of Natural History and the Moore Laboratory of Vertebrate Zoology. No geographic variation was evident in the newly discovered populations reported here for A. unicolor or the United States populations of A. coerulescens, and no specimens were available from the new population of A. ultramarina. Hence, below, I discuss the implications of range extensions of A. coerulescens in southern Mexico for the pattern of geographic variation in the species. The comparisons were made using series of fully adult individuals (after second year; Pitelka 1945) from the following localities: Guerrero, Cuapongo (4); Guerrero, Sierra de ‘Taxco (2); Oaxaca, Mitla (10); Oaxaca, Llano Verde (2); Durango, Ojito (4); Zacatecas, Sombrerete (2); Jalisco, Lagos de Moreno (6); and various localities in San Luis Potosi (7). Contrary to the statements of Binford (1989), the subspecies remota of central Guerrero is relatively well marked and distinct from swmichrastz, which extends from the Federal District and Tlaxcala south to Oaxaca. ‘Three characters serve to identify most individuals as one or the other. (1) The pileum is lighter blue in remota than in sumichrasti. (2) The back is lighter brown in remota than in sumichrasti, but contra Pitelka (1951), I found individuals of both subspecies with blue suffusion in the brown of the back. (3) The collar of remota is considerably less extensive, and the brown underwash of the collar of sumichrasti is lacking. ‘The Taxco specimens appear to be much more similar to sumichrasti than remota. Although the collar and upper breast of the Taxco birds are slightly lighter than in swmichrasti, they are considerably darker than in remota. The blue of the pileum and the brown of the back in the Taxco birds are both darker than in remota, closely matching sumichrasti. Thus, the southern populations of A. coerulescens can be interpreted as nearly continuous from the Transvolcanic Belt south to the Sierra Madre del Sur, from Oaxaca, Puebla, and Veracruz west at least to Guerrero. The central Guerrero form, remota, appears to be isolated from populations to the north by the arid lowlands of the Balsas Depression and possibly intergrades with sumichrasti along the Guerrero-Oaxaca border (Binford 1989). Acknowledgements Many thanks to my numerous field companions, especially A. Peterson, S. Baker, H. Benitez D. and N. Vargas B. Thanks also to J. Brown, B. Burt, T. Davis, P. Escalante, A. Garza de Leon, S. Howell, P. Lowther and A. Navarro S. for information on jay distribution and to the curators of the collections listed above for access to materials. Special thanks to F. Pitelka for providing extensive unpublished data. Funding was provided by the National Science Foundation, National Geographic Society, Sigma Xi, the Chapman Fund of the American Museum of Natural History, Field Museum of Natural History and the Univer- sity of Chicago. References: Beals, E. & Rusterholz, K. 1981. Bird list. Sierra de Manantlan, Jalisco, Mexico, 1 January—14 January 1980. Centzontle 1: 181-185. Binford, L. C. 1989. A distributional survey of the birds of the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Orn. Monogr. no. 43. American Ornithologists’ Union. A. Dyrez 33 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Brown, J. L. & Horvath, E. G. 1989. Geographic variation of group size, ontogeny, rattle calls, and body size in Aphelocoma ultramarina. Auk 106: 124-128. Dixon, K. L. 1952. Scrub Jay in Bexar County, Texas. Condor 54: 208. Escalante P., P. 1988. Aves de Nayarit. Univ. Auton. Nayarit, Tepic. Fitton, S. D. & Scott, O. K. 1984. Wyoming’s juniper birds. Western Birds 15: 85-90. Fitzpatrick, J. W. & O’Neill, J. P. 1979. A new tody-tyrant from northern Peru. Auk 96: 443-447. Mayr, E. 1963. Animal Species and Evolution. Belknap Press, Cambridge, Mass. Miller, A. H. 1955. The avifauna of the Sierra del Carmen of Coahuila, Mexico. Condor 57: 154-178. Miller, A. H., Friedmann, H., Griscom, L. & Moore, R. 'T. 1957. Distributional check-list of the birds of Mexico, part II. Pacific Coast Avifauna no. 33. Morales Perez, J. E. 1969. Distribucion de la avifauna en la Sierra de Taxco, Guerrero. Tesis profesional, Facultad de Ciencias, U.N.A.M., Mexico. Peterson, A. T. & Vargas B., N. In press. Ecological diversity in Scrub Jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens). In 'T. P. Ramamoorthy et al. (eds), The Biological Diversity of Mexico. Oxford Univ. Press. Phillips, A. R. 1986. The Known Birds of North and Middle America, part 1. Allan Phillips, Denver. Pitelka, F. A. 1945. Pterylography, molt, and age determination of American jays of the genus Aphelocoma. Condor 47: 229-260. Pitelka, F. A. 1951. Speciation and ecologic distribution in American jays of the genus Aphelocoma. Univ. Calif. Publ. Zool. 50: 195-464. Pitelka, F. A. 1961. Comments on types and taxonomy in the jay genus Aphelocoma. Condor 63: 234-245. Woolfenden, G. E. & Fitzpatrick, J. W. 1984. The Florida Scrub Fay: demography of a cooperative breeding bird. Princeton Univ. Press. Address: A. Townsend Peterson, Committee on Evolutionary Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, U.S.A. Current address: Museum of Natural Science, 119 Foster Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, WSFA © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Observations on nesting and nestling growth in the Rusty-margined Flycatcher Myiozetetes cayanensis in southeastern Peru by Andrzej Dyrcz Received 5 Fuly 1990 Information on the breeding biology of the Rusty-margined Flycatcher is scarce (Haverschmidt 1971). Below I give some new data. In November and December 1985 I observed Rusty-margined Fly- catchers which nested at an oxbow lake (Laguna Chica) in lowland rain forest in T'ambopata Reserve, Puerto Maldonado, southeastern Peru. ‘The species was first found there in 1978 (Parker 1982). Two nests were found at the edge of the oxbow. They were situated on small bushes growing in the water, and were 100 and 140 cm above water level. They had a more or less oval shape with a well-formed roof over the top. The A. Dyrcz 34 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) TABLE 1 Growth parameters of a Rusty-margined Flycatcher nestling Length of Body Tarsus Wing Bill Length of 2nd tail Age, Weight length length length length 9th primary feather days (g) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) 2 3.5 40 7.6 — — 0 0 3 5.0 41 7 9.4 4.9 0 0 4 6.5 48 9.9 11.3 5.8 0 0 5 8.5 52 10.4 11.6 7.0 0.4 0.3 6 10.0 59 QRS 14.6 7.8 1.1 hss) Z (285) 61 14.0 16.8 8.5 3.8 1.8 8 14.5 66 iS ie2 17.1 8.7 8.9 3.8 9 1525 75 15.9 20.0 9.9 10.6 3.8 10 18.5 79 16.9 21.4 10.2 15.0 5.6 11 19.0 83 18.6 22.4 10.9 18.7 11.6 12 2ALS 88 20.5 23.0 12 D329 11.8 13 2125 94 21.2 23.3 11.4 28.0 13.6 14 24.0 98 21.4 24.2 11.9 32.8 N55 is) 24.0 100 21.6 25.0 13.0 36.3 Ws) 16 24.0 101 22.0 25.9 ik sie) 3951 2ie2 17 255 102 22:2 25.5 13.9 41.1 2345 18 25.0 102 22:5 25.5 1329 44.6 26.5 19 24.5 104 22.5 DoD 14.0 47.8 30.4 20 25.5 104 22.5 25.5 14.0 47.8 38.6 outer wall was constructed of coarse grasses, small twigs, lichens and other material, the inner chamber of fine grasses and pappus of unidenti- fied seeds. ‘The diameter of the side entrance of one nest was 4cm and the diameter of its chamber was 9cm. The weight of the dry nest was 54 ¢. In the first nest the first egg was laid between 9 and 11 November. The clutch was two eggs (21.4 x 16.6 mm, 20.3 x 15.7 mm). The weights of the fresh eggs were 3.25 and 2.75 g. The smaller egg did not contain any visible embryo. The single nestling hatched on 26 November, and was measured and weighed every day between 15.00 and 16.00 hrs up to the 19th day of life. The length of the body was measured from the tip of the bill to the end of the pygostyle. The flattened chord length of the wing was measured; the tarsus was measured from bend to bend, and the bill from skull to tip. All the measurements were taken to the nearest 0.1 mm (except body length to the nearest 1 mm), and the weight to the nearest 0.5 g. The data are presented in Table 1. The colour of the skin at 2 days old was yellowish-orange and in the following days became darker; the upperparts were covered by a yellowish-white down. Primaries and tail feathers became visible on the 5th day of life, the eyes opened on the 6th day, and the vanes of contour feathers started to appear on the 13th day. On the 18th day of life the nestling was completely covered by feathers. It left the nest when 21 days old. I visited the nest again on 29 December, and saw the colour-ringed, A. Dyrcz 35 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) 34-day-old young in its vicinity. Generally, it looked like an adult bird, except that the yellow underparts were paler. During one hour of obser- vation it begged three times in vain; the adults were mildly aggressive to it. Eventually it flew to the other side of the oxbow. In the second nest, the first egg was laid on 28 November. Altogether, three eggs were laid (23.6 x 16.8, 23.2 x 16.7, 22.6 x 17.2 mm); one per day. This differs from Haverschmidt’s (1971) observation that the eggs are laid on alternate days. Three days after completion of the clutch the eggs disappeared. Later a new nest was constructed 15 m away, probably with material from the old one which had disappeared. Soon the water level in the river nearby rose unusually high, the whole region was flooded and observations ended. The growth curve of the Rusty-margined Flycatcher nestling weight differs from those of some other species studied in the neotropics (e.g. Dyrcz 1983, 1984). The growth was slow and at the end of the nestling period there were marked fluctuations in growth rate. ‘The maximum weight was reached on the 17th day of life. When it left the nest the fledgling weighed about 85% of adult weight. For purposes of comparison of growth rates between species, 1rrespec- tive of body size, it is convenient to use the growth rate constant K, derived from the curve of the logistic equation to which observed growth rates of birds approximate (Ricklefs 1967, 1976). Ricklefs’ method, applied to the nestling under observation, gives a growth rate constant of 0.353. This is lower (i.e. growth was somewhat slower) than the values given by Ricklefs (1976) for four Rusty-margined Flycatcher nestlings from Panama, which range from 0.370 to 0.414. The values for this species are close to the average for 40 neotropical passerine species (0.365; range 0.126—0.604) reported by Ricklefs (1976) and Oniki & Ricklefs (1981). References: Dyrcz, A. 1983. Breeding ecology of the Clay-coloured Robin Turdus grayi in lowland Panama. [bis 125: 287-304. Dyrcz, A. 1984. Breeding biology of the Mangrove Swallow Tachycineta albilinea and the Grey-breasted Martin Progne chalybea at Barro Colorado Island, Panama. Ibis 126: 59-66. Haverschmidt, F. 1971. Notes on the life history of the Rusty-margined Flycatcher in Surinam. Wilson Bull. 83: 124-128. Oniki, Y. & Ricklefs, R. E. 1981. More growth rates of birds in the humid New World tropics. [bis 123: 349-354. Parker, T. A. 1982. Observations of some unusual rain-forest and marsh birds in south- eastern Peru. Wilson Bull. 94: 477-493. Ricklefs, R. E. 1967. A graphical method of fitting equations to growth curves. Ecology 48: 978-983. gaia R. E. 1976. Growth rates of birds in the humid New World tropics. Ibis 118: 179-207. Address : Andrzej Dyrcz, Department of Avian Ecology, Wroclaw University, Sienkiewicza 21, 50-335 Wroclaw, Poland. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 P. A. Clancey 36 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) On the races of Anthus caffer Sundevall, 1850, occurring in eastern Africa by P. A. Clancey Received 31 Fuly 1990 The Little Tawny or Bushveld Pipit Anthus caffer Sundevall, 1850: Rustenburg, western Transvaal, is a localized and highly vicariant mem- ber of a triad of diminutive Afrotropical pipits which inhabits lightly bushed savanna grasslands, and is in the main known from the eastern interior plateau of the continent, but reaches the littoral in the southeast of its range. The other members of the triad are the Short-tailed Pipit Anthus brachyurus Sundevall, 1850, and the Sokoke Pipit Anthus sokokensis van Someren, 1921. The subspeciation of A. caffer has recently been discussed in part in Clancey (1989) and more fully in Clancey (1990) and Aspinwall (1990). In their Birds of East Africa, Britton et al. (1980) recognize A. c. blayneyi van Someren, 1919: Olgerei, Kenya, as the sole racial representa- tive of the species in eastern Africa, which is stated as occurring from Lolgorien, the Mara R., Loita, Ngong, Konza and Simba, in Kenya, to Serengeti, Arusha, Kidugallo and Dar es Salaam, in Tanzania. They also comment that the few records from south of c. 5°S are for the months of September and October, and are indicative of either post-breeding nomadism or the existence of regular migratory movements. That populations of other subspecies—such as nominate A. caffer and A. c. mzimbaensis Benson, 1955: Mzimba, Malawi—are local short-distance migrants is confirmed in Clancey (1989, 1990). During a study of the relatively limited material of A. caffer in the British Museum (Nat. Hist.), Tring, in 1983 I located aspecimen sexed asa male, but clearly a female on measurements, obtained at Lomorn, 29 km SW of Loliondo, Tanzania (2°03’S, 35°40’E), by E. Rowe on 12 September 1935 (B.M.Reg.1945.41.127), at an altitude of 1830 m a.s.]., which dif- fered markedly from the available specimens of A. c. blayneyi and A. c. australoabyssinicus Benson, 1942: Yavello, southern Ethiopia, at 1372 m. Data from the label record that the bird was collected in sparse thornbush on an isolated rocky hill in otherwise short grass pasture country, the gonads being described as quiescent. Compared with both A. c. blayneyi and A. c. australoabyssinicus the Lomorn specimen differs in having the upperparts much darker and colder in colour, lacking entirely the warm tawny nuance of the two said races, the shaft-streaking Fuscous rather than Sepia (Ridgway 1912), the edgings of the feathers from the pileum to the lower back Cinnamon-Buff versus Buckthorn Brown. The rump 1s also darker, being greyish olivaceous with the feather centres broadly dull black. On the face, the ear-coverts are again dark, lacking any trace of tawny. Ventrally, the entire ground is dull white, the breast with much broader and blacker streaking than in the case of the two taxa with which it is here compared. The flanks are also more broadly marked with black P. A. Clancey 37 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) shaft-streaking, and the wings and tail are likewise darker. The flattened wing measures 66.5 mm, the culmen from the skull 12.5 mm, and the tail 42.5 mm. Both of the tarsi are broken. As the material at Tring did not permit of a subspecific determination of this contentious specimen, | had it sent out in June 1990 to the Durban Museum, where I was able to match it relatively closely with paratypical material of A. c. traylori Clancey, 1964: Bela Vista, Sul do Save, southern Mozambique, of the southeastern African littoral to the south of the Save R., from which it differed in being still darker over the dorsal surfaces from the crown to the lower back and in being smaller. In traylori the mean of the wing-length in 99 is 70.4mm, s.d. 1.13 (n=11) and that of tail-length 47.5 mm, s.d. 0.82 (n=8). The state of the gonads, the colour criteria and small proportions suggest that the Lomorn specimen was a migrant or nomad from breeding grounds probably situated in the East African coastlands somewhere to the north of the established range of traylori. The records cited by Britton et al. from Kidugallo (6°47'S, 38°12’E) and Dar es Salaam (6°48’S, 39°17’E) may indicate where they are to be found. The specimen concerned appears to represent an undescribed form which will require to be named when additional specimen material comes to hand. Until this is realized, I recommend that the Lomorn bird be tentatively attributed to A. c. traylort. Schmid] (1982), in his list of the birds of the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, lists A. caffer on the basis of four May—October records, the question of their subspecific allocation not being dealt with. In my 1990 revision of Afrotropical Anthus spp. I queried the status of A. c. australoabyssinicus. Benson (1942) differentiated this southern Ethiopian population from the Kenyan A. c. blayneyi on a single charac- ter, namely the extent to which the forethroat was streaked, blayneyi reputedly having a whiter throat than the Ethiopian form. Benson’s paratypical material of the latter, now in the collection at Tring, com- pared with the limited Kenyan sample of blayneyi did not confirm that the form warranted recognition. In June 1990 I had an adult ¢ specimen of australoabyssinicus from 48.3 km S of Yavello, southern Ethiopia, sent out to the Durban Museum for examination, careful study of which shows no extension of the pectoral streaking up over the forethroat but reveals that the somewhat extended neck of the skin gives the impression that this is so. This impression is effected by the exposure of the greyish basal feather surfaces through elongation of the neck skin during preparation. From this finding it can be deduced that the single character given for australoabyssinicus 1s an artefect resulting from differences in style of skin make, and that the form concerned is synonymous with A. c. blayneyt. As a result of the above findings, the populations of A. caffer occurring in eastern Africa from southern Ethiopia to Kenya and Tanzania may be grouped in two subspecies: A. c. blayneyi (with A. c. australoabyssinicus treated as asynonym) and A. c. traylori, the placing of the latter tentative. Acknowledgements For access to the collection at the British Museum (Nat. Hist.), Tring, I am grateful to the responsible officials, and to Mr P. R. Colston of the staff I am indebted for the loan of the limited Tring material studied in Durban in 1990. H. Sick 38 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) References: Aspinwall, D. R. 1990. The Bushveld (or Little Tawny) Pipit Anthus caffer in Zambia. Zambian Orn. Soc. Newsletter 20, 8: 58-61. Benson, C. W. 1942. A new species and ten new races from southern Abyssinia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 63: 8-19. Benson, C. W. 1955. New forms of pipit, longclaw, robin-chat, grass warbler, sunbird, quail-finch and canary from Central Africa. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 75: 101-109. Britton, P. L. (ed.) et al. 1980. Birds of East Africa— their habitat, status and distribution. East Africa Natural History Society, Nairobi. Clancey, P. A. 1989. The status of Anthus caffer mzimbaensis Benson, 1955. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 109: 43-47. Clancey, P. A. 1990. A review of the indigenous pipits (Genus Anthus Bechstein: Motacillidae) of the Afrotropics. Durban Mus. Novit. 15: 66-68. Ridgway, R. 1912. Color Standards and Color Nomenclature. The Author, Washington, IDK @- Schmidl, D. 1982. The Birds of the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. B.O.U. Check-list no. 5. British Ornithologists’ Union. van Someren, V. G. L. 1919. Anthus blayneyi, sp. n. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 40: 56. Address: Dr P. A. Clancey, Research Associate, Durban Natural Science Museum, P.O.Box 4085, Durban 4000, South Africa. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Distribution and subspeciation of the Biscutate Swift Streptoprocne biscutata by Helmut Sick Received 12 Fuly 1990 The Biscutate Swift, collected by J. Natterer in southeastern Brazil, was described by P. L. Sclater as Chaetura biscutata, following Natterer’s suggestion in his MS not to consider it as merely a variety of C. zonaris (Shaw). The topotypical material came from ‘Rio de Janeiro and Ypanema’, the latter now situated within the city of Sao Paulo at 23°33’S, 46°38'W. The species occurs sporadically in eastern Brazil, extending to Misiones, Argentina. Until recently it has been considered uncommon; there are few specimens in collections. Thus it came as a great surprise to learn in 1973 that in northeastern Brazil the Biscutate Swift gathers in very big flocks, and that for centuries their droppings, collected from the cave where they roost, have been used as a fertilizer (Sick 1985). The swifts come to a certain area in Rio Grande do Norte (Serido) as migrants, between February and October, corresponding to the southern winter. In August 1986 we estimated 8—10,000 and in 1987 90—100,000 individuals entering the cave. There is no evidence of their breeding in northeastern Brazil. The people of Rio Grande do Norte believe they come from Africa or from Peru. A similar legend is told about the Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata—with more reason in the case of the doves, which are sometimes found dead on the beaches of northeastern Brazil, as there is a large population of them on the island of Fernando de Noronha, H. Sick 39 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) 356 km off the coast, and during movements between the island and continent losses may occur. In 1984 G. Mattos, M. A. Andrade and M. V. Freitas (Andrade et al. 1986) found the first (and still the only) breeding place known of the Biscutate Swift: a colony situated in the Ibitipoca Mts in Minais Gerais, southeastern Brazil. The breeding season there is from October to the end of the year, the southern summer. The swifts arrive in [bitipoca as early as August and stay there until February. There were estimated to be about 1200 individuals distributed over 15 caves, each cave harbouring a separate colony; ringed individuals returned 1n successive years. At first, this appeared to be a very satisfactory solution to the riddle of the Biscutates from Serido; but then we realized that the birds from Minais Gerais (and other places in southeastern Brazil) are bigger than the Serido swifts. It is now clear that there are two different populations of the Biscutate Swift: a larger form in the south, nesting e.g. in Minais Gerais, and a smaller one, ‘wintering’ in northeastern Brazil, which we here describe as a new geographical race: Streptoprocne biscutata seridoensis subsp. nov. Type. 3, Serra do Bico da Arara, Acari district, Serido region, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil (6°31'S, 36°38’W), altitude 600 m. Collected 5 August 1987 by G. Mattos, M. A. Andrade and M. V. Freitas. Deposited in the Museu Nacional, Rio de Janeiro, no. 36.897. Measurements. Type: wing (flat) 187; tail 66 (a little abraded); tarsus 23; exposed culmen 9; total length 193 mm; weight 85 g. See also Table 1. Plumage. Black, wings more sooty black. Feather shafts on back and rump brilliant. Collar on hindneck and pectoral patch white. Lores clear brown. Chin and upper throat whitish; feather shafts sooty brown. Male and female similar. Diagnosis. Differs from S. b. biscutata by its smaller size. Wing measurements of the two races do not overlap. There is a wider range of tail measurements of seridoensis specimens in both sexes, but the mean values are lower in seridoensis (Table 1). The weights of seridoensis are mostly under 100g (78 birds captured for ringing, August), those of biscutata more than 100g (165 birds captured for ringing, Ibitipoca (21°42’S, 43°53’W, 1200-1700 m), August and January). The difference of size is also apparent from the smaller legs and feet of seridoensis individuals, which can be fitted with a smaller ring than biscutata. Range. Known only from Rio Grande do Norte and Piaui, northeastern Brazil, as a migrant. Etymology. From Serido, a famous geographical name. It was in use as early as about 1679 (Lamartine 1980), together with Acari, a small town at the base of the Serra do Bico da Arara (‘macaw-bill mountains’), where the swift cave is located. Ecology. Biscutate Swifts are associated with dry caves, unlike the White-collared Swift S. zonaris, which nests on wet cliffs, often behind waterfalls. These two large swifts can occur in the same area, as in the upper Itatiaia Mts, Rio de janeiro, above the forested area around the bare mountains at c. 2500 m; but they do not associate. H. Sick 40 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) TABLE 1 Wing- and tail-length (mm) in the Biscutate Swift Streptoprocne biscutata WING TAIL Sex N Range Mean S.D. Range Mean S.D. S.b. biscutata 3 6 200-211 206.8 4.07 64-70 67.3 2.33 Q 5 198-210 206.0 5.05 64-69 65.8 1.92 SS. b. seridoensis 3 8 185-196 188.6 3.78 53-74 62.4 7.40 Q 15 172-193 182.8 6.59 53-72 59.8 5.88 Note. Specimens of SS. b. biscutata from Ibitipoca (4) and Mariana (1, unsexed, wing 203, omitted from table), Minas Gerais; Teresopolis, Rio de Janeiro (1); Itararé, S. Paulo (1); Umbara (4) and F. Alegre (1), Parana. Specimens of S. 6. seridoensis from Serido, Rio Grande do Norte (17); Paranagua (3) and Caracol (3), Piaui. Additional remarks. 'The Biscutate Swift is one more example from South America of the tendency for populations near the equator to be smaller in size than those at higher latitudes; other examples are known in, e.g., the Psittacidae (Pionus maximiliani and Amazona vinacea), Caprimulgidae (Podager nacunda, Nyctidromus albicollis and Hydropsalis brasiliana), 'Vyrannidae (Onychorhynchus coronatus), Thraupinae (Euphonia chlorotica), Emberizinae (Oryzoborus angolensis) and Cardinalinae (Pitylus). Such geographical variation warrants recog- nition in the nomenclature. We are still ignorant of the breeding range of the small Serido swifts; perhaps it is in the region of the middle Rio Sao Francisco, Bahia. The large numbers occurring in Serido suggest that birds from several colonies meet there during the non-breeding season. Acknowledgements I am obliged to H. Schifter, Vienna, who informed me about the specimens collected by J. Natterer and O. Reiser, and to L. P. Gonzaga, who located specimens in the Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, Belem, and the Museu de Zoologia, Sao Paulo. References: Andrade, M. A., Freitas, M. V. & Mattos, G. 1986. Anilhamento do andorinhao-de-cola- falha, Streptoprocne biscutata, no Parque Estadual do Ibitipoca, Minais Gerais, Brasil. An. II Encontro Nac. Anilhadores de Aves (Rio de Janeiro): 225—226. Lamartine de Faria, O. 1980. Sertées de Serido. Brasilia. Reiser, O. 1924. Vogel. Ergebnisse der Zoologischen Expedition nach Nordost-Brasilien 1903. Denkschr. Akad. Wissenschaft Wien 76: 107-252. Sick, H. 1985. Ornitologia Brasilieira, uma Introducdao. Ed. Univ. de Brasilia. Sick, H., Andrade, M. A., Mattos, G. T. & Freitas, M. V. 1987. Anilhamento de Streptoprocne biscutata no Rio Grande do Norte. An. III Encontro Nac. Anilhadores de Aves (S. Leopoldo): 21. Address: Dr H. Sick, Academia Brasileira de Ciéncias, C.P.229, 20.001 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 M.R. Browning et al. 41 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) The nomenclatural status of Trogon leverianus Shaw, 1792, and Trogon sallaei Bonaparte, 1856 by M. Ralph Browning, Christian Erard & Herbert Schifter Received 7 August 1990 The nomenclature in New World Trogonidae experienced considerable controversy until the middle of this century. Although most issues had by then been resolved, two remain to be clarified. First, the status of the name Trogon leverianus Shaw, 1792, suggested by Zimmer (1948) to be either a junior synonym of one species or an earlier name of a different species, remains unresolved. Second, the name Trogon sallaei Bonaparte, 1856, was rejected by many authors who failed to realize its identity on the basis of the original description and to recognize the then extant female syntype as aname-bearing type. The nomenclatural status of these names follows. Trogon leverianus Shaw, 1792 Shaw (1792: 175-178) described the belly of Trogon leverianus as white with an “‘extremely slight tinge of reddish or buff.’’ The plate (opposite p. 177) accompanying the description is of an adult male with the visible portion of the underparts white and the black wing coverts slightly speckled with white. Latham (1802) repeated Shaw’s (1792) description but Stephens’ (1815) continuation of Shaw’s General Zoology did not mention leverianus. Pelzeln (1871) synonymized leverianus with Trogon viridis Linnaeus, 1766 (=T. strigilatus Linnaeus, 1766, of Peters [1945] but see Zimmer [1948]). Pelzeln (1873: 19) reported the holotype of leverianus as no. 4785 and as no. 130 in his list of species, and stated that the ‘‘abdomen has changed from yellow to white, probably by the influence of light.” Zimmer (1948) did not mention the colours “‘reddish”’ or “‘buff’ of Shaw’s (1792) description and stated, apparently in reference to Pelzeln (1873), that the “‘underparts were described as white.’’ He also stated that “Shaw’s original plate, however, shows a male bird with vermiculated | =speckled] wing-coverts, which are at total variance with the condition in viridis, though in agreement with the characters of Trogon surrucura [Vieillot 1871]. However, a colour photograph of the original plate (in the McGill University library) shows that the wing coverts are shiny black without white speckling. Shaw’s specimen of Trogon leverianus was among 200 specimens of the Lever collection purchased by Leopold von Fichtel for the Imperial Court Cabinet in Vienna (Stresemann 1975), and was the only trogon reported by Pelzeln (1871, 1873) to have been received from the Museum: Leverianum. The specimen was listed in Donovon’s (1806) sale catalogue as no. 4785 “‘Leverian trogon, Trogon leverianus, extremely fine and rare.” It was received by the Naturhistorisches Museum Wien in 1806 as a mounted bird where it is now 55.046 as a study specimen. On its oldest label is the museum’s original acquisition number 1806.111.60, the M. R. Browning et al. 42 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) number “‘130”’ and the words ““Trogon viridis Linne (= Tr. leverianus)”’ and ‘“‘Mus. Leverianum.”’ The underparts of the holotype of Trogon leverianus are white and the wing coverts are entirely black. The specimen is clearly an example of Trogon viridis. It cannot be identified positively to subspecies, but on the basis of the only specific locality, ““Cayenne’’ (Shaw 1792), the name leverianus is best regarded as a synonym of nominate Trogon viridis. Trogon sallaei Bonaparte, 1856 Bonaparte (1856: 955) proposed the name Tvogon sallae: for a new species of trogon, and described both the male and female plumages from specimens collected by Auguste Sallé in the vicinity of Cordoba, Veracruz, and Mt Orizaba, Puebla, Mexico. In a separate catalogue of Salle’s collection, Sclater (1857) listed one specimen as T. aurantiventris Gould, 1856, an orange-breasted species from Costa Rica and Panama, and listed T. sallaei as a synonym of aurantiiventris. This synonymy was followed by Ogilvie-Grant (1892), and thus the name sallaez, although based on yellow-breasted birds from Mexico, was long associated with an orange-breasted species not known to occur there. The name T. braccatus Cabanis & Heine, 1863, was accepted by Ogilvie-Grant (1892). Ridgway (1911) listed sallaei as a questionable synonym of T. aurantiiventris but doubted Sclater’s (1857) identification of Bonaparte’s specimen. Most later authors accepted the name braccatus for the Mexican subspecies of what is now known as TJ. violaceus Gmelin, 1788 (or T. caligatus Gould, 1838, sensu Bonaparte, now a subspecies of 7. violaceus of South America). Van Rossem (1934) examined a specimen (1856-1022) in the Paris Museum held there as the female that Bonaparte had described as sallaez, and identified it as T. caligatus. He did not locate the male that Bonaparte had described, but noted that the description applied to a young male of caligatus with first-year rectrices. Van Rossem’s proposed substitution of the earlier name sallaei for the later braccatus was rejected by Carriker & Meyer de Schauensee (1935) and Peters (1945) largely on the basis of Sclater’s (1857) early association of the name sallaei with aurantiventris and uncertainty that van Rossem (1934) had actually located a cotype of sallaet. Zimmer (1948) added that although van Rossem had identified the female as a type of sallaez, the disputed identity of the lost male precludes use of the name sallaei. Nonetheless, other authors (e.g. Dickey & van Rossem 1938, Sutton & Burleigh 1940, Traylor 1941, Wetmore 1941, 1943, Todd 1943, Brodkorb 1943) have used the name sallaei for the northern subspecies of what is now T. violaceus. On the other hand, some authors (e.g. Miller et al. 1957, Russell 1964, Binford 1989) follow Peters (1945) and use braccatus for the same population. We believe that van Rossem was probably correct in his identification of Paris Museum 1856-1022 as the female syntype of T. sallaez. We also believe that PM 1856-858 must be the male syntype of sallaez. The collection that Sallé made in Mexico in 1855 included 5 specimens of trogons. Bonaparte (1856) described two of these as T. sallaei, men- tioned an unspecified number of 7. xalapensis Du Bus de Gisignies, 1845 (= T. puella Gould, 1845, sensu Sclater = subspecific names of T. collaris M. R. Browning et al. 43 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Vieillot, 1817, a red-bellied species), and described one female of T. ramonianus Deville & Des Murs, 1849, now a subspecific name of T. violaceus from South America. Sclater (1857) catalogued the Salle collec- tion at the request of Sallé and Bonaparte, and listed a male and female T. caligatus (Sallé’s no. 71=PM 1856-858 and 1856-1022), a male and female T. puella (Sallé’s no. 69 = 1856-859 and 1856-1023), and one (sex not indicated) “‘T. aurantiiventris’’ (Sallé’s no. 70=1856—1024; sent to the Blois Museum in 1930 and since disappeared) with which he associ- ated the name sallaez. Sclater apparently erred both in the identification of PM 1856-1024 and in assigning Bonaparte’s name sallaez to it. We cannot satisfactorily explain Sclater’s error, but perhaps he merely wrote the wrong name. By process of elimination, the male listed by Sclater (1857) as T. caligatus must be one of the two that Bonaparte (1856) had described as T. sallaeiz. Because there is some uncertainty about which specimen Bonaparte described as the female of sallaei and which he described as the female of ramonianus, we formally designate the male PM 1856-858 as the lectotype of Trogon sallaei Bonaparte. Acknowledgements We thank C. Violani for locating the original plate of T. levertanus and McGill University, Montreal, for providing a colour photograph of the plate. We are grateful to C. Jouanin for information on the history of the Salle collections and various catalogues in the Paris Museum, and to M. Tranier who searched the collection at the Natural History Museum in Blois. We also thank S. Olson and R. C. Banks for their helpful comments and reading of the manuscript. References: Binford, L. C. 1989. A distributional survey of the birds of the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Orn. Monogr. no. 43. American Ornithologists’ Union. Bonaparte, C. 1856. Note sur les tableaux des gallinacés. Comptes Rendus 42(19): 953-957. Brodkorb, P. 1943. Birds from the Gulf lowlands of southern Mexico. Publ. Zool., Univ. Michigan no. 55. Carriker, M. A., Jr. & Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1935. Annotated list of two collections of Guatemalan birds in the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 87: 411-455. Dickey, D. R. & van Rossem, A. J. 1938. The birds of El Salvador. Publ. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 23. Donovon, E. 1806. Catalogue of the Leverian Museum. Heyden’s Printing Office, Covent- Garden. Latham, J. 1802. Supplement II to the General Synopsis of Birds. Leigh Sotheby & Son, London. Miller, A. H., Friedmann, H., Griscom, L. & Moore, R. T. 1957. Distributional check-list of the birds of Mexico. Pt. 2. Pacific Coast Avifauna no. 33. Ogilvie-Grant, W. P. 1892. Suborder Trogones. Pp. 429-497 in Catalogue of the Birds of the British Museum. Vol. 17. London. Pelzeln, A. 1871. Zur Ornithologie Brasiliens. A. Pichler’s Witwe und Sohn, Wien. Pelzeln, A. 1873. On the birds in the Imperial Collection at Vienna obtained from the Leverian Museum. Ibis (3)3: 14-54, 105-124. oe J. L.1945. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 5. Museum of Comparative Zoology, arvard. Ridgway, R. 1911. The birds of North and Middle America. Pt. 5. Bull. U.S. Natl Mus. no. 50. Russell, S. M. 1964. A distributional study of the birds of British Honduras. Orn. Monogr. no. 1. American Ornithologists’ Union. Sclater, P. L. 1857. Catalogue of the birds collected by M. Auguste Sallé in southern Mexico, with descriptions of new species. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1857: 283-311. Shaw, G. 1792-1796. Museum Leverianum. James Parkinson, London. P. }. Cordero 44 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) Stephens, J. F. 1815. General Zoology or Systematic Natural History Commenced by the late George Shaw... Vol. 9, Pt. 1. Aves. Printed for G. Wilkie et al., London. Stresemann, E. 1975. Ornithology from Aristotle to the Present. Harvard Univ. Press. Sutton, G. M. & Burleigh, T. D. 1940. Birds of Tamazunchale, San Luis Potosi. Wilson Bull. 52: 221-233. Todd, W. E. C. 1943. Critical remarks on the trogons. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 56: 3-16. Traylor, M. A., Jr. 1941. Birds of Yucatan Peninsula. Publ. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 24: 195-225. van Rossem, A. J. 1934. Critical notes on Middle American birds. Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. 77: 387-490. Wetmore, A. 1941. Notes on birds of the Guatemalan highlands. Proc. U.S. Natl Mus. 89(3105): 523-581. Wetmore, A. 1943. The birds of southern Veracruz, Mexico. Proc. U.S. Natl Mus. 93: 215-340. Zimmer, J. 'T. 1948. Studies of Peruvian birds. No. 53, the family Trogonidae. Am. Mus. Novit. no. 1380. Addresses: M. R. Browning, Biological Survey Group, National Ecology Research Center, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C. 20560, U.S.A.; C. Erard, Mammifeéres et Oiseaux, Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, 55 Rue de Buffon, 75005 Paris, France; H. Schifter, Naturhistorisches Museum Wien, Postfach 417, A-1014 Wien, Austria. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Phenotypes of adult hybrids between House Sparrow Passer domesticus and ‘Tree Sparrow Passer montanus by Pedro F. Cordero Received 24 August 1990 A pair of male House Sparrow Passer domesticus and female Tree Sparrow Passer montanus occurred in the wild in 1988 (Cordero 1990a) and in 1989 (Cordero, unpubl.), at Prat de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain. In 1989 a male and female juvenile hybrids were sexed according to their pheno- typical characteristics (Cordero 1990b) and removed from the nest. The birds were kept in an aviary and their plumage described when they were 350 days old. Some biometrical parameters are given in Table 1. In both specimens the bill, chin and throat were black, the bib pattern being more similar to Tree than to House Sparrow. The lores, postman- dibular, subocular and postocular triangle (‘mask’) were also black in the male, but dark grey in the female. A small whitish stripe above the lores and a minute superior postocular spot were present in both hybrids (as in male House Sparrow) as well as a second (lower) wing bar, more conspicuous than in House but not so bright and wide as in Tree Sparrow. With respect to sexual differences, the male resembled a large Tree Sparrow, with the centre of crown and nape greyish-brown mottled with reddish-brown (chestnut). The sides of the crown, the postocular stripe (lateral stripe) and the sides of neck were of an intense reddish-brown. P. F. Cordero 45 TABLE 1 Measurements of male and female hybrids and of a random sample of parental species. Culmen, maximal length of wing and tarsus (in mm) are taken according to Svensson (1984); Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) mean +SD, ranges in parentheses n Weight (g) Culmen Wing Tarsus House Sparrow males 5 29.9+1.91 13.4+0.21 78.8+1.32 19.5+0.14 (28.0—33.0) (13.1—13.6) (77.0-81.0) (19.3-19.6) females 5 28.2+0.68 12.5 £0.19 77.01.67 19.3+0.42 (27.5—29.5) (12.2-12.8) (75.0-79.0) (18.4-19.6) Hybrids male 1 22.0 13.0 73.0 18.4 female 1 20.5 12.4 71.0 18.3 Tree Sparrow males 5 21.4+1.03 1st '0.377 69.4+1.62 16.7+0.26 (20.4-23.3) (10.8-11.8) (67.0—72.0) (16.5-17.1) females 5 2AR3 1-2 11.1+0.24 66.4+1.61 16.5+0.35 (18.8—23.8) (10.8-11.5) (64.0—68.0) (16.2—17.2) The ear coverts were greyish-white (pure white in malar region) with a black ear patch, similar but less defined than in Tree Sparrow. An extended white band on the side of the neck was also present, a feature resembling Tree Sparrow. The description of this male is almost identical to the hybrid reported by Rooke (1957) and to the hybrid male reported by Ruprecht (1967). The female, on the contrary, was like a small male House Sparrow. The crown and nape were greyish-brown, uniform as in first-year male House Sparrow (Selander & Johnston 1967). The cheek was light grey with a grey “Tree Sparrow-patch’ very diffused and almost imperceptible (some male House Sparrows may show a similar greyish patch). The postocular stripe was an intermixture of reddish-brown and very pale brown (buff) flecks. The side of the neck was reddish-brown, paler than in male House Sparrow and sprinkled with brown. The lesser coverts were dark brown as in a female House Sparrow, in contrast to any other black-bib sparrow (shoulder is reddish-brown in first-year and older male House Sparrow, in hybrid male and in Tree Sparrow). The observations that the female hybrid is closer to House Sparrow and the male hybrid to Tree Sparrow are supported by earlier obser- vations on hybrids in juvenile plumage (Silver 1911, Meise 1951, Cordero 1990b). The above descriptions suggest that most hybrids reported between House Sparrow and Tree Sparrow were males (see Ruprecht 1967; also Nichols 1919, Rooke 1957, Richardson 1957, Nyholm 1966, Tricot 1968) and the absence of reports of phenotypes like the present hybrid female may be a consequence of the difficulty of recognizing them in the field. Acknowledgements I arn grateful to D. Summers-Smith and D. T. Parkin, who provided useful comments and helped with the English of an earlier draft of this paper. JF. R. King 46 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) References: Cordero, P. J. 1990a. Breeding success and behaviour of a pair House Sparrow and Tree Sparrow (Passer domesticus, Passer montanus) in the wild. J. Orn. 131: 165-167. Cordero, P. J. 1990b. Phenotypes of juvenile offspring of a mixed pair of a male House Sparrow and a female Tree Sparrow (Passer spp). Ornis Fenn. 67: 52-56. Meise, W. 1951. Hampes Mischzucht von Haus- und Feldsperling Passer d. domesticus (L.) x Passer m. montanus (L.). Bonn. Zool. Beitr. 2: 85-98. Nichols, J. B. 1919. Wild hybrid between House Sparrow and Tree Sparrow. Brit. Birds 13:136. Nyholm, P. F. 1966. En formodad hybrid mellan grasparv (Passer domesticus) och pilfink (Passer montanus). Var Fagelv. 25: 274-275. Richardson, R. A. 1957. Hybrid Tree x House Sparrow in Norfolk. Brit. Birds 50: 80-81. Rooke, K. B. 1957. Hybrid Tree x House Sparrow in Dorset. Brit. Birds 50: 79-80. Ruprecht, A. L. 1967. A hybrid House Sparrow x Tree Sparrow. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 87: 78-81. Selander, R. K. & Johnston, R. F. 1967. Evolution in the House Sparrow. I. Intrapopu- lation variation in North America. Condor 69: 217-258. Silver, A. 1911. Hybrid fringillidae. Avicult. Mag. 11: 349-356. Svensson, L. 1984. Identification guide to European Passerines, 3rd edn. Stockholm. Tricot, J. 1968. Hybride de Moineau domestique (Passer domesticus) x Moineau friquet (Passer montanus). Aves 4: 28. Address: Pedro J. Cordero, Catedra de Vertebrados, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Facultad de Biologia, Universidad de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal, 645, 08071 Barcelona, Spain. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Body weights of some Ecuadorean birds by 7. R. King Received 29 August 1990 ‘Thomas (1990) has recently outlined the value of avian body weight data in supplementing the wealth of information held in specimen collections. ‘The present paper details 735 weights for 88 species derived from live trappings of birds caught for ringing at two sites in southern Ecuador: (1) Rio Mazan Valley, Azuay Province (2°52'S, 79°7’W). Trapping was undertaken in high-altitude (3050-3350 m) primary and secondary for- est, and adjacent early successional grassland, in July-September, 1986 and 1987. Details of the site and procedures are given in King (1989). (2) Bosque Domono, Macas, Morona-Santiago Province (2°7'S, 78°8’W). Bosque Domono (1100 m a.s.1.) lies some 20 km due north of the town of Macas, in the extreme south-east corner of Sangay National Park, on the eastern slope of the Andean Cordillera. The area consists entirely of regenerated subtropical forest. Mist-netting took place on nine dates, 24-27 July and 21—25 August 1987. Weights were taken using 50 g and 300 g Pesola balances, and are given to the nearest 0.1 g for birds under 30g, otherwise to the nearest 1 g. Trapping periods covered dawn to dusk more or less evenly; thus, any >. R. King 47 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) effects of time of day on individual body weight should be accounted for in the ranges given. For those species for which weights are given by sex, the determination of sex was generally based upon published plumage characteristics. However, as many species were, or had recently been, breeding (King, unpubl. data), some males could be identified as such if they possessed a marked cloacal protrusion (Svensson 1984, Pyle et al. 1987). Further, a number of the species involved appear to show significant sexual size dimorphism in linear measurements (King, unpubl. data), and discriminatory analyses (e.g. Griffiths 1968) can be used to assist sex determination in some of these species; details will be published elsewhere. Individual weights are listed, except where samples exceed 6, for which the number and the mean +1 standard deviation are given, with the range in parentheses. Species marked with an asterisk are from Bosque Domono, all the remainder are from Mazan. Nomenclature follows Meyer de Schauensee (1970). Caprimulgus longirostris: 3 39; 2 38 Phaethornis guy*: 3 8.1 Phaethornis superciliosus*: unsexed 6.9, 6.9, 7.1, 7.2 Eutoxeres aquila*: unsexed 10.2, 10.4 Campylopterus falcatus: 2 6.4 Colibri coruscans: unsexed 7.4 Klais guimeti*: 2 2.9 Thalurania furcata*: unsexed 4.2 Phlogophilus hemileucurus*: unsexed 3147325326; 3.7, Lafresnaya lafresnayt: 18 33 5.43 +0. 39 (5.0-6.7); 22 99 5.24+0.50 (4.5-6.6) Pterophanes cyanopterus: 3 3 3 9.6, 10.0, 10.6; 29.1 Coeligena iris: 24 sn abeed 6. 84+0. 33 (6.47.6); 193g 7.1240.26 (6.7-7.7); 1099 6.71 +0.57 (6. 0-8. 0) Ensifera ensifera: 5 11.2; 9211.3, 11.6 Heliangelus viola: 8 unsexed,5 5s 98 +0.48 (5.2-6.6) Eriocnemis vestitus: unsexed 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.7; 9d 4.4, 4.7, 4.8; 99 4.4, 4.6 Eriocnemis luciani: 12 unsexed 5.95+0.23 (5.6-6. 3); Bos 6. 18+0. 20 (5.8-6.4); 11 99 5.81 £0.22 (5.46.2) Lesbia victoriae: 2 5.3 Lesbia nuna: unsexed 3.2; 35 3.6, 3.9; 299 3.3, 3.3, 3.6, 3.6, 3.6, 4.3 Rhamphomicron microrhy nchum: 3 3.5 Metallura baront: 33 4.3, 4.3, 4.5; 22 3.9, 4.0, 4.0, 4.0, 4.1, 5.0 Metallura williami: unsexed 4.1, 4. 2, 4.2, 4.4; 95.3 Metallura tyrianthina: 22 ansexed 3. 90+0. 53 (3.2—5.1); 54 gg 3.87 40.29 (3.54.9); 34 99 3.56+0.41 (2.74.9) Acestrura mulsant: unsexed 4.0 Trogon personatus: 3 44 Picumnus rufiventris*: 3 14.4 Veniliornis nigriceps: 2 39 Dendrocincla fuliginosa*: 33 46, 46; 251 Glyphorynchus spirurus*: unsexed 13.9 Synallaxis azarae: 31 unsexed 16.87 +0.87 (15.8-19.3); Jf 16.2, 16.5, 16.5, 19.0; 29 16.8, 17.4 Synallaxis gularis: unsexed 13.0, 14.2 Pseudocolaptes boissonneautit: unsexed 49,51 Thripadectes flammulatus: unsexed 46, 53,55 Xenops minutus*: unsexed 12.7, 13.5, 14.0, 15.5 Thamnophilus schistaceus*: 2 21.8 Dysithamnus mentalis*®: 2 17.0 Cercomacra serva*®: 3 16.7 JF. R. King 48 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) Pithys albifrons*: unsexed 21.2 Aylophylax naevia*: 3 13.6; 2 14.6 Grallaria rufula: unsexed 37, 40 Scytalopus unicolor: unsexed 17.6, 18.4, 19.6, 20.1 Scytalopus latebricola: unsexed 16.7, 16.9 Ampelion rubrocristatus: unsexed 67 Pipra pipra*: 2 16.1 Chloropipo holochlora*: unsexed 15.3, 16.6, 16.7, 16.7, 17.0; ¢ 16.4 Schiffornis turdinus*: unsexed 32 Ochthoeca fumicolor: unsexed 20.1 Ochthoeca rufipectoralis: 11 unsexed 12.27 + 0.73 (11.3-13.9) Ochthoeca frontalis: 11 unsexed 11.40 +0.54 (10.5—12.1); 9g 10.4, 10.5, 10.8, 11.6, 12.2 Myzobius villosus: $3 12.5, 13.9 Myiotriccus ornatus*: unsexed 13.7, 14.5 Anairetes parulus: 7 unsexed 6.14+0.29 (5.9-6.6) Mecocerculus leucophrys: 3 16.0 Mecocerculus stictopterus: unsexed 10.7 Tyranniscus viridiflavus*: 3 10.0; 9 9.6 Mnionectes olivaceus*: unsexed 13.0, 13.2, 15.0, 15.5 Corythopis torquata*: unsexed 18.5 Notiochelidon murina: 7 unsexed 12.46 +0.27 (12.0-12.8); Jd 12.4, 12.6, 12.9, 13.3; 99 11.9, 12.0, 12.2, 12.2, 12.4 Cinclus leucocephalus: 7 unsexed 43.9 + 7.6 (38-59) Cistothorus platensis: 19 unsexed 12.52 +0.81 (11.1—-13.8) Troglodytes solstitialis: 13 unsexed 12.72 + 0.64 (12.0—14.2); ¢ 12.0 Henicorhina leucosticta*: 7 unsexed 15.84 +0.80 (14.6—-16.7) Catharus dryas*: unsexed 37, 39, 44 Turdus fuscater: unsexed 139, 175 Turdus albicollis*: unsexed 55; ¢ 51 Myioborus miniatus*: unsexed 9.2, 9.5; 5 10.2 Myioborus melanocephalus: 24 unsexed 11.38 + 0.52 (10.3—14.1) Basileuterus nigrocristatus: 21 unsexed 13.35 +0.80 (11.6—14.7); 13 dg 14.35 +0.80 (13.0— 15.4); 99 13.0, 14.5, 17.2 Basileuterus coronatus: 9 unsexed 16.19 + 0.87 (14.4-17.2); 3d 15.2, 16.0, 16.7 Basileuterus fulvicauda*: unsexed 14.5, 15.4 Coereba flaveola*: unsexed 10.2 Conirostrum cinereum: unsexed 10.0, 10.4 Diglossa humeralis: 17 unsexed 11.75+1.05 (10.0-13.6); 15 gg 13.15+0.82 (11.7-14.5); 40 99 11.84+0.73 (10.8-13.7) Diglossa cyanea: unsexed 17.8, 18.5; 9g 17.0, 17.0; 9 16.4 Diglossa sittoides: 2 7.7 Euphonia xanthogaster*: 33 14.8, 15.9; 99 13.4, 14.4, 14.4, 14.5, 14.6, 14.6, 15.6 Chlorochrysa calliparaea*: 3 17.0 Tangara vassorit: 3 18.8; 9217.1, 17.8 Dubusia taeniata: unsexed 36, 38, 42 Thlypopsis ornata: g 12.1 Hemispingus superciliaris: unsexed 14.6, 14.6, 16.0, 16.8; 29 16.0 Catamblyrhynchus diadema: unsexed 18.3 Pheucticus chrysopeplus: 9° 50, 52 Catamenia analis: 2 16.6 Catamenia inornata: $3 12.3, 12.7, 13.4, 14.3, 14.5; 11 99 13.41 +0.54 (12.6—13.2) Atlapetes rufinucha: 20 unsexed 30.4 +2.2 (2640) Atlapetes torquatus: unsexed 45, 45, 46 Arremon aurantiirostris*: unsexed 25.5, 25.7, 25.9; ¢ 24.5 Zonotrichia capensis: 12 unsexed 22.88 + 1.23 (21.3—25.4) Acknowledgements CREA, ETAPA and MAG provided invaluable practical assistance in Ecuador. A. Gretton extracted the data for 1986. Several people assisted in the field, notably Messrs. J. Dauris, M. Hancock and S. J. Holloway. G. F. Mees 49 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) References: Griffiths, J. 1968. Multi-modal frequency distributions in bird populations. Bird Study 15: 29-32. King, J. R. 1989. Notes on the birds of the Rio Mazan Valley, Azuay Province, Ecuador, with special reference to Leptosittaca branickii, Hapalopsittaca amazonina pyrrhops and Metallura baroni. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 109: 140-147. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1970. A Guide to the Birds of South America. Livingston Publishing Co., Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. Pyle, P., Howell, S. N. G., Yunick, R. P. & DeSante, D. F. 1987. Identification Guide to North American Passerines. Slate Creek Press, Bolinas, California. Svensson, L. 1984. Identification Guide to European Passerines, 3rd edn. Naturhistoriska Riksmuseet, Stockholm. Thomas, B. T. 1990. Additional weights of Venezuelan birds. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 48-51. Address: J. R. King, Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, Department of Zoology, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PS, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 The type locality of Halcyon coromanda rufa Wallace by G. F. Mees Received 11 September 1990 Halcyon rufa (now Halcyon coromanda rufa) was described by Wallace (1863: 338) from “‘Sula Islands and Celebes’’. Soon afterwards, Sharpe (1870: text to pl. 57) listed a specimen labelled ‘Macassar’, which at that time was in Wallace’s private collection, as the type of H. rufa. On the accompanying plate, this specimen is beautifully illustrated. Wallace’s private collection was acquired by the British Museum in 1873 (cf. Sharpe 1906: 258), and in the Museum catalogue this same specimen was again listed as the type (Sharpe 1892: 221). By Warren (1966: 251) it is, perhaps more correctly, referred to as syntype. As long as birds from Celebes and birds from the Sula Islands were thought to be consubspecific, the matter of the type locality of H. rufa was of no practical interest. In 1939, however, Neumann described H. c. pelingensis from Peling Island, between Celebes and the Sula Islands. This subspecies was diagnosed as being: “Similar to Halcyon coromanda rufa Wallace from Celebes, but much smaller, wing 106-115 mm., as against 120-126mm. in H. c. rufa Wallace. Culmen 53-56mm., as against 62-67 mm. in H.c. rufa.... Mr. Kinnear tells me that the type of H..c. rufa Wallace from Macassar, Celebes, has a wing-length of 120 mm., therefore 5 mm. more than my largest specimen.’’ Neumann commented that the distribution of H. c. rufa (Celebes and the Sula Islands) then seemed rather strange. That is as far as Neumann’s published contribution goes. Peters (1945: 195) unexpectedly changed the type locality of H. rufa with the comment: “‘the type in the British Museum was collected by G. F. Mees 50 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) Allen either on Mangoli or Besi, fide O. Neumann, in litt.)’’. To later authors, the reasons for this change were obscure, hence unacceptable (cf. Mees 1970: 301; Hubbard & duPont 1974: 25). The explanation of what had happened was provided by Mr S. Eck (in litt., 21 June 1975), who sent me the following quote from a letter from Neumann to O. Kleinschmidt (dated 31 December 1940): ‘‘Denn der Typus von H. c. rufa Wallace stammt nicht, wie irrtumlich auf dem Etikett (nicht von Wallace selbst geschrieben), von Makassar, sondern von den Sula Inseln. Das ist eine viel grossere Rasse, von der ich auch Stiicke von Taliaboe erhielt. Das geht ja schon aus Wallace’s Orig. Beschreibung und Sharpe Cat. Birds deutlich hervor!’’. A short discussion of this letter was published by Eck (1976: 76-77). Evidently, Neumann had realised later that resident birds from Celebes are smaller than he first thought. The measurements he pub- lished must have been from migrant visitors of H. c. major, a long-winged subspecies which breeds in Japan and winters in the Philippines and the northern peninsula of Celebes. A wing-length of 120mm, as recorded for the type-specimen of H. rufa, must have seemed to him too large for a bird from Celebes, and as it agreed in this character with specimens from the Sula Islands (of which Neumann had, in the mean- time, received two), he concluded that an error in labelling had been made, and that the type-specimen, labelled ‘Macassar’, was actually from the Sula Islands. The letter failed to convince me, mainly because Sharpe’s plate of the type shows it to be a dark bird, with a blue rump. The Sula subspecies, since described under the same of sulana, is a little less dark, and has an almost white rump-patch, only its margins being slightly tinged with blue. Nevertheless, an element of doubt remained at the back of my mind: the consciousness that there was some unfinished business here, which should be resolved by a personal examination of the type in question. It was only in June 1990 that I had an opportunity to visit Tring, and could study the type. The specimen (¢) has an original Wallace label, inscribed ‘Makassar, 1856’. Measurements I took from it are: wing 120, tail 70, tarsus c. 165, entire culmen 65.3, culmen from anterior point of nostril 51, width of bill across the nostrils 17 mm. Wing-formula: 4th primary longest, marginally (about 1 mm) longer than the 3rd and the 5th, which are equal, and 2nd primary 7 mm shorter than 3rd. ‘The gener- ally dark plumage, the azure blue rump, and the comparatively short tail (tail:wing index 58.3%; in sulana it averages over 65%) all place this bird as a large specimen from Celebes, so that there is no reason to doubt the provenance from Makassar as indicated on its label. In a series of 17 specimens from Celebes previously measured by Mees (1970), the range of variation was: wing 113-118, tail 59-67;mm. The largest bird had wing 118, tail 67; mm. Hence, the Minlenccae specimen with wing 120, tail 70mm, is Sells a large one, but hardly exceptionally so. How. did Kinnear and Neumann come to make the mistake? Simply because there are no specimens of H. coromanda from the Sula Islands in the British Museum, and because Neumann never examined the type-specimen of H. rufa, relying thus exclusively on the measurements supplied by Kinnear. M. Louette i Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) Although the British Museum specimen from Makassar has been regarded as the type of H. rufa since 1870, and may be considered to have been made a lectotype by Sharpe (ICZN, 1985: art. 74), it would still be of interest to know what other material Wallace had when he described H. rufa. Judging by his title, one would assume that he had at least one specimen from the Sula Islands. To this I can only say that hitherto I have failed to trace any. The Makassar specimen is the only type of H. c. rufa known to me. In conclusion: the examination of the lectotype of Halcyon rufa in the British Museum has confirmed its provenance Makassar, and therefore supports the nomenclature used in recent years by Eck, Hubbard & duPont, Mees, etc., with H.c. rufa in Celebes, H. c. pelingensis on Peling, and H. c. sulana in the Sula Islands. References: Eck, S. 1976. Die Vogel der Banggai-Inseln, insbesondere Pelengs. Zool. Abh. Dresden 34: 53-100. Hubbard, J. P. & duPont, J. E. 1974. A revision of the Ruddy Kingfisher, Halcyon coromanda (Latham). Nemouria 13: 1-29. Mees, G. F. 1970. Notes on some birds from the island of Formosa (Taiwan). Zool. Meded. 44: 285-304. Neumann, O. 1939. Six new races from Peling. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 59: 104-108. Peters, J. L. 1945. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 5. Museum.of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Sharpe, R. B. 1870. A Monograph of the Alcedinidae or Kingfishers. Pt. 9. London. Sharpe, R. B. 1892. Family Alcedinidae. Cat. Birds Brit. Mus. 17: 93-312. Sharpe, R. B. 1906. Birds. Hist. Coll. Nat. Hist. Depts. Brit. Mus. 2: 79-515. Wallace, A. R. 1863. List of birds from the Sula Islands (east of Celebes), with descriptions of the new species. Proc. Zool. Soc. London (1862): 333-346, pls. XX XVITI-XL. Warren, R. L. M. 1966. Type-specimens of Birds in the British Museum (Natural History).1. Non-Passeres. British Museum (Natural History). Address: G. F. Mees, Rijksmuseum van Natuurlijke Historie, Postbus 9517, 2300 RA Leiden, Holland. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 The red-tailed buzzards of Zaire by M. Louette Received 12 October 1990 The Red-necked Buzzard Buteo auguralis breeds during the dry season in western and west-central Africa (including Uele in Zaire: January— March, Chapin 1932), and migrates during the rainy season towards the north (Brown 1970). In this country, contrary to Brown’s map and Lippens & Wille’s (1976) statement ‘‘assez commune dans presque tout le Zaire’, it is only definitely known from the extreme north and extreme west (Schouteden 1948, 1950, Snow 1978), being absent from most of Kivu and Eastern (now Upper Zaire) provinces and the whole of Shaba and Kasai, these regions lacking to a large extent breeding buzzards (see position of regions on maps in Louette 1989, 1990). Also, P. Herroelen M. Louette 52 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) never saw a buzzard during ten years of residence (1950-1960) in the southern (forested) part of Equateur province; Chapin (1932) gives only Lukolela (1°07'S,17°11’E; no date, “‘not common’’) as a locality outside the ‘“‘main”’ range. South of the Equator, in the west of Zaire (Kwilu), Wille (in Lippens & Wille 1976) saw auguralis from January to March, supposing them to be migrants; at that period they should be nesting in the north (unless these were immatures), but I think these birds belong to another population. It is noteworthy that the species definitely breeds in extreme western Zaire, since a young bird, just out of the nest (sited in a tree near a river), was collected for the KMMA at Tumba, Lower Zaire province (5°31'S,14°36’E), 2 September 1938. Menegaux & Van Saceghem (1918) had already mentioned its breeding in this region, but because they may have confused two species (?), better proof was necess- ary. Buteo auguralis is also proven to breed in western Angola (bird with primaries not completely developed from Duque de Braganza, no date, Barboza du Bocage 1881; another “‘just able to fly’ at Malandje, Hartert & Neumann 1914; downy young and large nestlings found in October in Bie province, Traylor 1963), but the status of the species, though widespread in the northwestern part, is inaccurately described in that country (cf. Snow 1978, Pinto 1983, Dean et al. 1988). The dated adult specimens from Lower Zaire are from March, July and October. According to Bouet (1955), Petit collected the species at Landana (Cabinda) in April, June and September and Dean (1978) saw it occasionally in Cabinda in August. Specimens from western Gabon are from July (‘‘assez abondant en saison séche’’, Malbrant & Maclatchy 1949) and from June and August (Rand et al. 1959). All these are far more likely to be local breeding birds in this well-forested area (‘Mayombe’), rather than migrants from the northern population. Somewhat to the north in the equatorial forest, near Makokou in eastern Gabon, Brosset & Erard (1986), over a long period, saw this buzzard only four times, all in December—January. Quite likely the popu- lations in the two hemispheres are segregated, the one in the southern hemisphere breeding only in the Mayombe—Angola region, during the dry season, dispersing somewhat to the surrounding areas (e.g. eastern Gabon and Kwilu, Lukolela in Zaire) with the rains, at the opposite time of year to the larger northern population. It is certain that the species breeds in the northern rim of the equatorial forest in Cameroon, not very far from the southern breeding range. Nestlings were taken by Serle (1950) near Mount Manengouba (at c. 5°05’S,9°50’E) from rock nests in March, and Germain et al. (1973) had a juvenile from Batouri (4°26'S,14°22’E) also from March, in the dry season in the northern hemisphere. In any case, there seem to be no differences in measurements or plumage characteristics between birds of both hemispheres. Published measurements include those of 12 specimens in Bannerman (1930) and wing and weight means and ranges in Thiollay (1977) from 8 specimens of Cote d'Ivoire; a selection from these two sources figures in Brown et al. (1982). Table 1 gives my measurements of adult (‘red-tailed’) specimens from the two regions in Zaire. There is a dimorphism among the adults of both regions, two plumage types being present: (1) with a completely dark M. Louette 33 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) TABLE 1 Measurements in mm of adult Zaire specimens of Buteo auguralis Sex Wing Culmen Hind Region (from label) chord Tail from cere claw Lower Zaire dark breast a 337.0 173.0 — — dark breast f 354.0 189.5 22.0 D585 streaked breast f —- 188.0 25 22.0 streaked breast f 360.0 193.5 22.5 23.0 streaked breast a 349.0 177.0 24.0 23.0 Uele, Ituri dark breast f 355.0 182.5 23.5 24.5 streaked breast f 356.0 185.0 24.0 25.0 streaked breast m 351.5 180.5 22.0 24.0 brown breast, and (2) with brown streaks on white on the breast. In this restricted sample no differences in size appear, nor do the label data (but these may not be reliable) suggest that the plumage types correspond to the two sexes. Based on the moult sequence in specimens towards a red tail, birds having this latter character are surely adult; hence the plumage illustrated as immature in Brown et al. (1982) is in fact a type 2 adult. The immature is streaked on the belly, like a type 2 adult, but has a brown, indistinctly barred, not a red tail, and no reddish on the head or on the edges of feathers on the mantle (see also description in Hartert & Neumann 1914). Probably the smaller population in the southern hemisphere is the result of recent immigration from the north, during a period when the equatorial forest was not a formidable barrier (this buzzard is not really a species of deep forest, cf. Thiollay 1975 and the scarcity of records in forest areas in Zaire, Gabon and Cameroon). There are other examples of species which have apparently spread in the same way: Dendropicos goertae (Louette & Prigogine 1982), Batis minor (Louette 1987), Crinifer piscator (see Snow 1978). In the KMMA collection, an Augur Buzzard Buteo augur taken at Banana(6°00'S,12°24’E; at the coast) in March 1951 was found, incorrectly placed under the previous species (confirmed by A. H. James). J. Mesmaekers, the collector, worked only in that area, so I accept the locality as the first record from western Zaire of this (normally resident) mountain bird, about 1000 km from its nearest known haunts in Angola (pace Traylor 1963, Snow 1978); it must have been a vagrant. This bird is not adult, because although its tail is reddish, with a terminal brown band and some brown barring, the other plumage characters point towards an immature. Dorsally, its mantle is pale brown with some rufous edging; ventrally, it is white from the lower breast downwards (the upper breast has some brown streaks). The thighs are white with some pale rufous. The under wing-coverts are white, unlike B. rufofuscus. This immature plumage is not quite matched by any of the numerous specimens from eastern Zaire, Rwanda and Burundi in KMMA, but in measurements (in mm: wing chord left 436, right 440, tail 215, culmen from cere 26.5, M. Louette 54 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) hind claw 28.5, tarsus 83) it agrees completely with augur (see Brooke 1975). In Zaire, except for the mountains on the eastern border, where the species is common (Schouteden 1948, 1950), there are only the three specimens that Verheyen (1953) took in the Upemba Park (Shaba). As mentioned under the previous species, there is no resident buzzard in much of lowland Zaire, confirmed by the fact that B. augur also does not normally occur in the neighbouring areas of Zambia (Benson et al. 1971, in part contra Benson & White 1957), and in Angola is found only locally in the mountains of the southwest (Pinto 1983). Both red-tailed buzzard species are thus allopatric but since they are so different in size and ecology they are no vicariants. The brown-tailed Mountain Buzzard B. oreophilus is the only other breeding Buteo in tropi- cal Africa, occurring in the same general range—mountains—as B. augur; James (1986) supposes it to be taxonomically related to B. auguralis. The absence of the nearly cosmopolitan genus Buteo from much of southern Zaire (where one would expect B. auguralis, a lowland bird, to occur) is paralleled e.g. in such birds as Falco tinnunculus (Louette 1989), the genus Agapornis and the grey touracos Corythaixioides/Crinifer (see Snow 1978). One wonders if insufficient coverage of this region by ornithologists is the reason, or if these absences are real and due to a common factor. The southern peri-forest woodlands do lack anumber of species that exist north of the Equator and they also possess species without counterparts in the north, resulting from their different zoogeographical history. References: Bannerman, D. A. 1930. The Birds of Tropical West Africa. Vol. 1. Crown Agents for the Colonies, London. Barboza du Bocage, J. V. 1881. Ornithologie d’ Angola. Imprimerie Nationale, Lisbonne. Benson, C. W., Brooke, R. K., Dowsett, R. J. & Irwin, M. P.S. 1971. The Birds of Zambia. Collins, London. Benson, C. W. & White, C. M. N. 1957. Check List of the Birds of Northern Rhodesia. Government Printer, Lusaka. Bouet, G. 1955. Ozseaux del’ Afrique Tropicale (premiére partie). ORSTOM, Paris. Brooke, R. K. 1975. The taxonomic relationship of Buteo rufofuscus and B. augur. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 95: 152-154. Brosset, A. & Erard, C. 1986. Les Oiseaux des Régions Forestiéres du Nord-est du Gabon. Société Nationale de Protection de la Nature, Paris. Brown, L. 1970. African Birds of Prey. Collins, London. Brown, L., Urban, E. K. & Newman, K. 1982. The Birds of Africa. Vol. 1. Academic Press, London. Chapin, J. P. 1932. The Birds of the Belgian Congo. Part I. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 65 Dean, W. R. J. 1978. Cabinda. Bokmakierie 30: 68-71. Dean, W.R.J., Huntley, M. A., Huntley, B. J. & Vernon, C. J. 1988. Notes on some birds of Angola. Durban Mus. Novit. 14: 43-92. Germain, M., Dragesco, J., Roux, F. & Garcin, H. 1973. Contribution a l’ornithologie du sud-Cameroun. 1. Non-passeriformes. Ozseau 43: 119-182. Hartert, E. & Neumann, O. 1914. Ein bisher verkannter Bussard Buteo oreophilus sp. nov. Orn. Mber. 22: 31-33. James, A. H. 1986. Review of taxonomic characters in African Buzzards (Genus Buteo). Beaufortia 36: 1-12. Lippens, L. & Wille, H. 1976. Les Oiseaux du Zaire. Lannoo, Tielt. Louette, M. 1987, 1989. Additions and corrections to the avifauna of Zaire (1). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 137-143. (4), 109: 217-225. Louette, M. 1990. The nightjars of Zaire. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 71-77. Books Received 55 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(1) Louette, M. & Prigogine, A. 1982. An appreciation of the distribution of Dendropicos goertae and the description of a new race (Aves: Picidae). Rev. Zool. Afr. 96: 461-492. Malbrant, R. & Maclatchy, A. 1949. Faune de Equateur Africain Francais. Tome 1, Oiseaux. Lechevalier, Paris. Menegaux, A. & Van Saceghem, (R.) 1918. Sur une petite collection d’oiseaux du Congo Belge. Rev. Fr. Orn. 10: 251-254, 257-259. Pinto, A. A. da Rosa 1983. Ornitologia de Angola. Vol. 1 (non-Passeres). Instituto de Investigacao Cientifica Tropical, Lisboa. Rand, A. L., Friedmann, H. & Traylor, M. A. 1959. Birds from Gabon and Moyen Congo. Fieldiana Zool. 41: 221-411. Schouteden, H. 1948, 1950. De Vogels van Belgisch Congo en van Ruanda-Urundi. Vol. I. Ann. Mus. R. Congo Belge C. Zool. Sér. [V.: 1-564. Serle, W. 1950. A contribution to the ornithology of the British Cameroons. Ibis 92: 342-376, 602-638. Snow, D. W. (ed.) 1978. An Atlas of Speciation in African Non-passerine Birds. Trustees of the British Museum (Natural History). Thiollay, J. M. 1975. Les rapaces d’une zOne de contact savane-forét en Cote d'Ivoire: densité, dynamique et structure du peuplement. Alauda 43: 387-416. Thiollay, J. M. 1977. Les rapaces d’une zone de contact savane-forét en Cote d'Ivoire: modes d’exploitation du milieu. Alauda 45: 197-218. Traylor, M. A. 1963. Checklist of Angolan Birds. Museo do Dundo, Lisboa. Verheyen, R. K. 1953. Oiseaux. In: Exploration du Parc national de |’ Upemba. Mission G. F. de Witte (1946-1949). Inst. Parcs Nat. Congo Belge 19: 1-687. Address: M. Louette, Koninklijk Museum voor Midden-Afrika, B-3080 Tervuren, Belgium. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 BOOKS RECEIVED Alerstam, T. 1990. Bird Migration. Pp. vii+420. 137 text-figures: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0 521 32865 9 hardback. £55.00. 25 x 19 cm. An updated translation of a book published in Sweden in 1982, this is an unusual and excellent survey of bird migration. It is unusual in its strong emphasis on fundamentals, and the spirit of enquiry which pervades every chapter. Thus it begins by discussing the basic causes of migration, chief of which are the amount of heat from the sun which falls on different parts of the earth’s surface and the 23.5° tilt of the earth’s axis, which causes the seasons. From this basis, aseries of 10 chapters, constituting nearly half of the text, discusses the breeding and winter quarters of the main ecological groups of birds, based on their feeding habits, and the factors which have led to the evolution of the resulting patterns of migration. This is followed by another series of 9 chapters on “‘the migratory journey”’, dealing with such topics as flight speed and height, different methods of flight, fat as fuel, the effect of weather and wind direction, and the hazards of migration. These chapters, far from being dry summaries, include detailed treatment of dozens of interesting examples. A final shorter section of 3 chapters deals very adequately but in less detail with the experiments which have been directed at solving the difficult, and still largely unresolved, problems of orientation and navigation. The coverage is world-wide, and the treatment is authoritative, as would be expected from an author who has wide experience of original research on bird migration based at Lund, a leading university for ecological studies. The illustrations (largely maps and diagrams; no bird portraits) are clear and useful, and the translation very good, only occasionally betraying evidence that it zs a translation. Thoroughly recommended. Baldwin, Peter J. & Meadows, Brian S. Birds of Madinat Yanbu Al-Sinaiyah and its Hinter- land. Pp. 74. Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu. No price given. An account of the natural and man-made habitats of the new industrial city of Madinat Yanbu Al-Sinaiyah, on the Red Sea Coast, 350 km north of Jeddah, and observations of Books Received 56 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(1) birds recorded there, between 1979 and 1987. The book, arranged for both English and Arabic readers, contains many drawings, photographs, charts and tables and includes an annotated systematic list. It should please both residents and visitors. Dickinson, E. C., Kennedy, R.S. & Parkes, K. C. 1991. The Birds of the Philippines. British Ornithologists’ Union Check-list No. 12. Pp. 448, maps, 8 pages of coloured plates. Hard covers. £36 (UK), £39 (overseas) post free surface mail. Available from BOU, c/o Zoological Museum, Tring, Herts HP23 6AP, UK. An important addition to the BOU series, due to be published late April 1991. The authors have had extensive experience in the Philippines in the field, while the data used for the Systematic List of 556 species (169 endemics) have been gleaned from unusually exten- sive museum and literature research; many previously unpublished records are included. There are preliminary chapters on Climate, Geography, Vegetation (with coloured map), Biogeography, Geographical Variation, Breeding, Migration, Conservation and Ornitholo- gical History. There are also a list of collectors, a gazetteer and an extensive list of references. Emphasis is on taxonomy and distribution. The colour plates include a full page photograph of the endangered Philippine Eagle at the nest. Perrins, C. M. (Ed.-in-Chief). 1990. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Birds. The Definitive Guide to the Birds of the World. Pp. 420. Fully illustrated in colour and black-and-white. Headline Book Publishing, in association with ICBP. Hard covers. £30 (in UK only). 30 x 23 cm. Despite its high-flown sub-title and its coffee table book appearance, this is a useful and well illustrated book for the tyro which depicts some 1200 species, representing every family of the world’s 9000 or so living birds, and provides a coloured portrait of each. There is a succinct summary for each species on range and habitat, with brief comments on the system- atics of the species chosen or its genus, and a paragraph on breeding and field habits. The introductory chapters are basic and there is important emphasis on conservation of endan- gered species and habitats. There is a World List of species at the end of the book, a comprehensive index and a list of 18 artists detailing their contributions, though one is left to guess which contribution is made by which of the 40 cited authors. Ratcliffe, D. 1991. Bird Life of Mountain and Upland. Pp. xi+ 256. Drawings, photographs and maps. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0521331234 hardback. £19.50. 25x 19cm. The title might give the impression that this is just another run-of-the-mill general account of an attractive group of birds. It is in fact much more: an authoritative, thoughtful and very well written survey with a strong emphasis on ecology, based on the author’s long experience as both field ornithologist and botanist, and as a senior scientist on the staff of the Nature Conservancy. After introductory chapters on the geographical, climatic and evolu- tionary history of British uplands, and on the birds considered as upland species (66 species, the choice of some being admittedly debatable), a series of 6 chapters deals with the birds by ecological groups—birds of the sheep-walks, grouse moors, deer forests etc. These chapters, forming the core of the book, are a stimulating mix of fact and ecological interpretation, with much that would be hard to find from other sources. After a penultimate chapter on geographical aspects of the composition of the British upland avifauna, a final chapter deals more generally with conservation. The author does not mince his words when mentioning the present government’s reluctance, in the face of powerful sectional interests, to implement the international conservation conventions to which this country is a signatory. The delightful drawings, by Chris Rose, of landscapes and birds deserve special mention. NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS Papers, from Club Members or non-members, should be sent to the new Editor to be nominated at the AGM, Dr D. W. Snow, Old Forge, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 4PD, U.K., and must be offered solely to the Bulletin. They should be typed on one side of the paper, with treble-spacing and a wide margin, and submitted in duplicate. The style and lay-out should conform with usage in this or recent issues of the Bulletin. Informants of unpublished observations should be cited by initials and name only, e.g. “‘... of grass (C. Dieter)’’, but ‘“‘P. Wee informs me that ...’’. A limited number of photographic illustrations in black- and-white may be published annually at the Editor’s discretion. Authors are requested to give their title, initials, name and full address at the end of the paper. An author wishing to introduce a new name or describe a new form should append nom., gen., sp. or subsp. nov., as appropriate, and set out the sup- porting evidence under the headings “‘Description’’, ‘‘Distribution’’, ‘““Type’’, ““Measurements of type”’ and “‘Material examined’’, plus any others needed. A contributor is entitled to 10 free offprints of the pages of the Bulletin in which his contribution, if one page or more in length, appears. Additional offprints or offprints of contributions of less than one page may be ordered when the manuscript is submitted and will be charged for. Authors may be charged for proof corrections for which they are responsible. BACK NUMBERS OF THE BULLETIN Available on application to the Hon. Treasurer, as below, as follows; 1983 and after (Vols 103 onwards) £3.50 each issue, 1981—2 (Vols 101 & 102) £3 each issue, 1980 (Vol. 100) No. 1 £4, Nos 2,3 & 4 £2 each, 1973-9 (Vols 93-99) £2 each issue (4 issues per year for Vol. 93 and after), 1969-72 (Vols 89-92) £1.50 each issue (6 per year), 1929-68 (Vols 50-88) £1 each issue (generally 9 per year), earlier than Vol. 50 £2 each issue (generally 9 per year); Indices Vol. 70 and after £1 each, Vols 50-69 £2 each, Vol. 49 and before £4 each. Long runs (at least 10 years) for Vol. 50 and after are available at reduced rates on enquiry. Postage & Packing £1.00 for U.K., £2 for Europe (airmail), £3 for all other areas (airmail), orders over £50 post free. MEMBERSHIP Only Members of the British Ornithologists’ Union are eligible to join the Club; applications should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer, as below, together with the annual subscription (£5.50 or, if preferred, U.S. $15 for 1991, postage and index free). Changes of address and any correspondence concerning membership should be addressed to the Hon. Treasurer. SUBSCRIPTION TO THE BULLETIN The Bulletin (Vol. 111 onwards) may be purchased by non-members on pay- ment of the annual subscription (£16.00 or, if preferred, U.S. $35.00 for 1991, postage and index free). Applications should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer. Single issues may be obtained as back numbers. PAYMENTS TO HON. TREASURER All payments should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer, S. J. Farnsworth, Hammerkop, Frogmill, Hurley, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 5NL, U.K. All pay- ments are net and should be made in Sterling if possible. Payments in other currencies must include a further £3 for Bank Charges (except for annual rates in U.S. Dollars which are inclusive). Payments may be made direct to the Club’s National Giro Account No. 30 924 4005, but must include Bank Charges where applicable. CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence about Club Meetings and on all other matters should go to the Hon. Secretary, Mrs A. M. Moore, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6JB, U.K. CONTENTS CLUBNOTICES Report ofthe Committee, Annual General Meeting, Miectingse isa.) 6 ooh Soa oy Bee gee at: Sea eee rr FJELDSA, J. ‘The activity of birds during snow-storms in high-level woodlands in. Peru, .)2.d34yay ie Sin Gapesiees eho ele ROBBINS, M. B. & RIDGELY, R.S. Sipia rosenbergi (Formicariidae) is a synonym of Myrmeciza [laemosticta] nigricauda, with com- ments on the validity of the genus Sipia ......5...5...000% RIPLEY, S. DILLON, SAHA, S.S. & BEEHLER, B.M. Notesonbirds from the Upper Noa Dihing, Arunachal Pradesh, Northeastern India. . PETERSON, A. TOWNSEND New distributional information on the Aphelocoma Jays eo. seek os tse eo ge Ca ee DYRCZ, A. Observations on nesting and nestling growth in the Rusty-margined Flycatcher Myiozetetes cayanensis in south- éastetn Perit m O20) 2) SIRS eS a es hye Ae CLANCEY, P. A. On the races of Anthus caffer Sundevall, 1850, occurring inieastenmAfricayc,. 45 ee eon. cee SICK, H. Distribution and subspeciation of the Biscutate Swift Sineptoprocne biscutatays... 0 Ac) Ae ere eee ae BROWNING, M. R., ERARD, C. & SCHIFTER,H. ‘'Thenomenclatural status of Trogon leverianus Shaw, 1792, and Trogon sallaei Bonaparte, E850 s spperianry Aw Lome uae daa DR CORDERO, P. J. Phenotypes of adult hybrids between House Spar- row Passer domesticus and Tree Sparrow Passer montanus..... KING, J.R. Body weights of some Ecuadorean birds............. MEES, G.F. The type locality of Halcyon coromanda rufa Wallace . . LOUETTE, M. ‘The red-tailed buzzards of Zaire.................. BOOKSIRECEIVED ee setla bc. 5 ay odes Sake te cance Ais ete eee gg Page yi 55) The Bulletin is despatched from the printers on publication and is sent by Surface Saver Postal Services to all European destinations outside the U.K. and by Air Saver Postal Services to destinations outside Europe. Those whose subscriptions have not been received by the beginning of a month of publication will have their copies despatched by surface mail, after their current subscription has been paid. COMMITTEE R. E. F. Peal (Chairman) (1989) D. Griffin (Vice-Chairman) (1990) Dr D. W. Snow (1990) S.J. Farnsworth (Hon. Treasurer) (1990) Mrs A. M. Moore (Hon. Secretary) (1989) Revd. T. W. Gladwin (1990) R. H. Kettle (1988) Dr A. Tye (1990) Cdr M. B. Casement, OBE, RN (1990) UK Data Protection Act. In order to keep records up to date and to facilitate despatch of the Bulletin names and addresses of Members and Subscribers, and no other information, are held on computer disc. If there is any objection to this please advise the Hon. Secretary in writing so that records can be deleted from the disc and stored manually. Published by the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB and printed by Henry Ling Ltd., at the Dorset Press, Dorchester, Dorset ISSN 0007-1595 bbl2 Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’ Club Volume1i11 No.2 June 1991 FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Tuesday, 9 July 1991. Mr R. E. Scott will speak on birds in Bulgaria— “Collared Doves and Yoghourt”’. Mr Scott is currently Head of Reserves Management Department at the RSPB. He first visited Bulgaria in 1982, and has subsequently made a further six professional and private visits there. He worked with Bulgarian ornithologists to establish the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds. Those wishing to attend should notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday 25 June 1991*. Tuesday, 17 September 1991. Mr G. R. Welch will speak on ‘‘Djibouti—Gateway to Africa” an account of the avifauna, raptor migration and conservation problems there. Mr Welch, who has been a full-time warden with the RSPB since 1978, is now Warden of Minsmere. He and his wife are Council Members of OSME; and they have made several visits to Djibouti since 1984. Those wishing to attend should notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday 3 September 1991*. Tuesday, 22 October 1991. Dr R. A. Cheke will speak on the birds of Togo. Tuesday, 26 November 1991. The Chairman, Mr R. E. F. Peal, will speak on birds of N.W. Morocco. Meetings are held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 at 6.15 pm. for 7 pm. A plan showing Imperial Collces will be sent to members on request. *Tt is usually paésible to rae Vide Nranees up to the Sunday before the meeting, but members are asked to aecept by 14 days beforehand as arrangements for meetings have to be confirmed with Imperial College well in advance.* If you accept re 4 sapscceuity find you are unable to attend please notify the Hon. Secretary, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 67B (tel. 0572 722788) as soon as possible. 57 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Bulletin of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol.111 No. 2 Published: 28 June 1991 The eight hundred and sixth meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday, 22 January 1991 in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington at 6.15 p.m. 38 members and 20 guests attended. Members present were: R. E. F. PEAL (Chairman), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, R. Beecroft, P. J. BELMAN, Mrs D. M. Brab.ey, P. J. BULL, D. CALDER, Cdr M. B. CASEMENT, RN Retd, Dr R. CHEke, I. CoLtins, P. J. CoNpER, D. St J. Court-Smitu, Dr R. A. F. Cox, M. J. Earp, J. H. ELcoop, S. J. FARNswortu, G. D. FIELD, A. Grsss, Rev. T. W. GLaDwWtn, D. GrirFin, C. A. R. HELM, R. H. Kettve, DrJ. F. Monk, A. G. Moore, Mrs A. M. Moore, R. G. Morecan, R. C. Price, A. J. RANDALL, M. L. Romer, P. J. SELLAR, R. E. SHARLAND, N.H.F. Stone, Dr A. Tye, Dr J. F. Watsn, Mrs E. F. Warr, Dr J. B. Woop, K.P. Woop. Guests attending were: B. PEARSON (Speaker), Mrs B. Apcock, Dr J. BRADLEY, D. G. Brooks, Mrs J. BuLL, Professor R. CHANDLER, Mrs J. CoLiins, R. Co.iins, A. Cox, Miss J. Epricu, Mrs F. FARNSWoRTH, O. GRAHAM, P. J. Moore, R. NEwTon, Mrs H. Price, Mrs S. STONE, Mrs H. Tye, H. THompson, A. J. Warr, Mrs J. M. Woop. After supper Bruce Pearson spoke about travelling in West, Central and East Africa on his painting and film-making expeditions. He illustrated his talk with photographs of his work, in which he specialises in painting birds and landscapes; and showed how his technique had developed during this time. The eight hundred and seventh meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday, 19 February 1991 in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington at 6.15 p.m. 30 members and 20 guests attended. Members present were: Dr J. F. MONK (Chairman of the meeting), Dr M. KELSEY (Speaker), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, P. J. BELmMan, K. F. Betton, R. H. C. Bonsor, Mrs D. BrapLey, Cdr M. B. CasEMENT, RN Retd, I. D. Cotuins, P. J. Conper, J. H. E.coop, S. J. FARNSworTH, G. D. Fie_p, C. HeLm, R. H. Kett ce, Dr P. Lack, Mrs A. M. Moore, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mutter, P. OLIver, R. C. Price, Dr R. P. Prys-JONgEs, S. Rumsey, R. Scott, Dr R. C. SELF, P. J. SELLaR, R. E. SHaRLAND, Dr D. SNow, N. H. F. STONE. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, M. ANsTEaD, Dr J. BRaDLEy, D. Brooxs, Mrs W. Brooks, Mrs F. FARNsworTH, Ms K. Horr, Dr P. M. Hucues, Mrs C. Ketsey, Mrs D. Lack, E. N. Mapsen, Mrs J. J. Mapsen, P. J. Moore, M. Paine, Mrs H. Price, R. Ranr, P. SALaMAN, Mrs A. Scott, D. A. Waters, M.S. WITTER. Dr Martin Kelsey gave the address on ‘Wintering of Marsh Warblers’. He has sent the following résumé: The Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris is a summer migrant to the Western Palearctic, breeding in tall, luxuriant vegetation along valley bottoms, old ditches and other damp situations. The species migrates from late July, through the Middle East, making landfall in Africa on the Sudanese coast of the Red Sea. After an apparent pause for about two months in north-east Africa, where the adults undergo a body moult, the entire world population continues southwards in a narrow migration front through eastern Kenya during November and December. This migration strategy, shown by several other Palearc- tic migrants in East Africa, enables the bird to follow the annual southward passage of the rains in the autumn. The final wintering quarters in southern Africa are not reached until December, with some individuals not arriving until late January. On the wintering quarters, individuals occupy very small home ranges which, like the foraging areas on the breeding grounds, show overlap with neighbours. Most, if not all, individuals sing during their sojourn. The song patches show no overlap and song probably has a territorial function to Meetings 58 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) safeguard food resources during the latter part of thé winter when the birds are completing their annual moult and the rains draw to a close. The eight hundred and eighth meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday, 19 March 1991 in the Ante-Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington, London at 6.15 p.m. 28 Members and 21 Guests and 1 Guest of the Club, Dr J. P. Croxall, attended. Members present were: R. E. F. PEaL (Chairman), M. A. Apcock, P. J. BELMaNn, K. F. BeTTon, Mrs D. Brap_ey, P. J. BULL, Cdr M. B. CasEMENT, RN Retd, I. Cou.ins, S. J. FARNSWORTH, A. Gipss, D. GRIFFIN, Rev. T. W. GLADWIN, C. HELM, R. H. KETTLE, Rev. G. K. McCuttocu, Dr J. F. Monr, Mrs A. M. Moors, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. MuLteEr, P. J. OLIver, J. G. PARKER, R. C. Price, Dr R. P. Prys-Jones, A. J. RANDALL, P. J. SELLAR, N. H. F. Stone, Dr A. Tye, C. H. WHEELER. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Miss J. ALEXANDER, M. ANSTEAD, Cdr M. K. BarRITT, RN, Mrs F. FaRNswortu, H. FuLLER, Mrs R. Swirt, Mrs B. Gisss, J. GILBEy, Mrs J. GLapwin, Mrs N. Lrppeti, Mrs I. McCuttocnu, Mrs E. N. Mapsen, J. J. MapDsEn, D. MILNE, QC, Mrs R. MILNE, Mrs D. Monk, P. J. Moore, Mrs M. Ouiver, Mrs H. Price, Mrs H. TYE. After supper Dr John Croxall gave the address ‘‘The Decline of the Wandering Alba- tross’’. After an introduction to the avifauna of the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia, he spoke on the nature of, and reasons for, the decline in breeding populations of the Wandering Albatross Diomedea exulans. The decline was first recognised at South Georgia in 1979, where it is averaging 1°% per annum, the present breeding population being only 60°% of that in the 1960s. Similar declines have since been reported at all other breeding sites where adequate data exist. Detailed population studies at South Georgia (Croxall ez al. 1990) have shown that the principal causes of the decline are decreases 1n juvenile survival (by 6% per annum) and in adult survival (by 1—2°, per annum with females showing significantly lower survival rates than males). Because breeding success is high and has increased over the last 15 years, causes of the population decline are likely principally to reflect events outside the breeding season and away from South Georgia. Analysis of 30 years of ringing recoveries (Croxall & Prince 1990) indicated that since 1975, significantly more birds have been recovered in fishing operations and that 75% of these (compared to none before 1975) involved long-line fishing for tuna. These fisheries do not operate south of 60°S and three-quarters of the recoveries of known-sex birds were of females, the sex which is known to range furthest north. Direct confirmation of long-line fishing vessels catching albatrosses (and other seabirds) has now been obtained by Australian scientists (Brothers 1991). The catch rate of Wandering Albatrosses would represent about half the annual losses of adults and three-quarters of that of juveniles in the South Georgia population. The magnitude of the problem and the undesirability of catching albatrosses stimulated the Japanese trawler-owners federation to permit investigation of ways of preventing seabirds being caught during fishing; pilot studies have been successful and it now remains to ensure that the appropriate measures are taken throughout the world fleet of tuna long-line fishing boats. A number of important lessons emerged from this case-history. First, the value of long- term population studies in detecting the signs and helping resolve the causes of population change. Second, the time it takes to do this and the even longer time it may take to implement remedies (thus even if albatross survival returned instantly to 1960s rates, the South Georgia population is likely to decline for a further 8-10 years). Third, a concern that many other seabird species, for which no adequate population data exist, may currently be significantly affected by one or more of the many factors adversely influencing marine ecosystems. Brothers, N. 1991. Albatross mortality and associated bait loss in the Japanese long-line fishery in the Southern Ocean. Biological Conservation 55: 255-268. Croxall, J. P. & Prince, P. A. 1990. Recoveries of Wandering Albatrosses Diomedea exulans ringed at South Georgia, 1958-1986. Ringing and Migration 11: 43-51. Croxall, J. P., Rothery, P., Pickering, S. P. C. & Prince, P. A. 1990. Reproductive perform- ance, recruitment and survival of Wandering Albatrosses Diomedea exulans at Bird Island, South Georgia. J. Anim. Ecol. 59: 773-794. C. Chappuis & C. Erard 59 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) CHARITY COMMISSION Charities—British Ornithologists’ Club. The Charity Commissioners have made a Scheme for this charity. A copy can be obtained by sending a stamped addressed envelope to St Albans House, 57-60 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QX, quoting reference number 279583—A1-LA. AMBERLEY M. Moore 5 March 1991 Honorary Secretary CHARITY COMMISSION In the matter of the Charity consisting of certain Trust Property held in connection with the British Ornithologists’ Club, which Charity is regulated by trust deed dated the 27th February 1958; and In the matter of the Charities Act 1960 THE CHARITY COMMISSIONERS FOR ENGLAND AND WALES HEREBY ORDER that the following Scheme be approved and established:— SCHEME Sub-clause (2) of clause 10 of the above-mentioned trust deed dated the 27th February 1958 shall have effect as if for the figure “‘50”’ therein there were substituted the figure “‘10”’. Sealed by Order of the Commissioners this 21st day of January 1991. A new cisticola from west-central Africa by C. Chappuis & C. Erard Received 15 September 1990 In May and June 1972, in the course of one of his extensive field-trips for tape recording the calls and songs of West African birds, one of us (C. Chappuis) was working on the nominate and guinea races of the Red-pate Cisticola Cisticola ruficeps (Cretzschmar). He discovered that some popu- lations of what seemed to be that species were characterized by a very peculiar song. Thus he collected two males of these enigmatic birds. Considering, from his own experience, that guinea and the nominate subspecies have similar calls and songs, he concluded that these particular birds were something else. At that time, Vielliard (1972) identified as Cisticola ruficeps mongalla Lynes a specimen he collected in 1970 at Bekao, southern Chad, in an area where Chappuis heard only the peculiar song, not the ‘usual’ one. So we considered that the problem could be solved by ranking mongalla as a species. Though comparisons of Chappuis’ specimens with true mongalla C. Chappuis & C. Erard 60 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) at the British Museum were not quite convincing, this solution was adopted in Chappuis (1974). Thus the matter remained until one of us (C. Erard) discussed it with Dr R. B. Payne who was writing his paper on the use of bird songs in avian systematics (Payne 1986) and with Melvin A. Traylor, Jr, who was pre- paring the 11th volume of the Check-list of Birds of the World (‘Traylor 1986). It was then realized that Lynes (see Lynes 1930, Lynes & Sclater 1934) was familiar with the calls and songs of most if not all Red-pate Cisticola subspecies. Such a clear-cut difference in song would not have escaped the attention of someone so meticulous and sharp of hearing. This is why Traylor (1986: 97) writes that we are dealing with a sibling species of C. ruficeps which will require a name of its own. We propose to name it: Cisticola dorsti sp. nov. The diagnosis, details of type etc. are given later, following the morphological and acoustical analysis, and distributional data, on which the decision is based. Morphological analysis We compared the material referable to this intriguing cisticola (two males collected by Chappuis and one obtained by Vielliard) with speci- mens of C. ruficeps kept in Paris, Tring, Bruxelles, ‘Tervuren, Chicago, Washington and New York. The task was not easy, because dorsti speci- mens being males in breeding dress, we had to rely only on birds of that sex and plumage. It soon became apparent that such birds are not common in collections, compared to non-breeding specimens. We will not describe the non-breeding plumages here; see Lynes (1930). Before discussing the results of our morphological comparisons, it 1s necessary to review briefly the existing subspecies of Cisticola ruficeps; their distributions will not be described here (see White 1962, Traylor 1986). Cisticola ruficeps guinea Lynes, 1930, differs from nominate ruficeps (Cretzschmar, 1830) by a much darker pigmentation of the upperparts, which reduces the contrast between cap and mantle, and even makes the white extremities of the tail-feathers appear not so bright and pure. It 1s also somewhat larger (see wing and tail lengths in Table 1). Cisticola ruficeps mongalla Lynes, 1930, appears still darker, colder and greyer than guinea, with the back more or less dappled with smoke-grey. Cisticola ruficeps scotoptera Lynes, 1930, is greyer than ruficeps and guinea but lighter than mongalla. The rust-red cap distinctly contrasts with the light smoke-grey mantle. All these particulars concern birds in breeding dress. It may be noted here that these geographical races are even better distinguished by their non-breeding plumage. We should also mention that all these forms display a ‘panel’ on the folded wing (fringes of great wing-coverts and inner secondaries): light greyish-brown in mongalla, greyish-ochre in scotoptera, greyish-white and buff in ruficeps, light tawny in guinea. Furthermore, though they show some buffy or rusty wash on their C. Chappuis & C. Erard 61 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) underparts, especially on the flanks, darker and more prominent on the thighs, they have a white vent. Colouration Compared to breeding specimens of these four subspecies, the three dorsti specimens show a number of subtle colour differences: (1) they have buff not white under tail-coverts and vent, the colour extending onto the flanks. This pattern reduces the contrast between the thighs and the rest of the underparts. (2) the black and white pattern on the undersurface of the tail-feathers is less sharply defined. The light tip is smaller (less than 4mm in length on the vane; see Table 1) and does not appear so pure white, being greyish-white. The black subterminal spot is not so deep in tone and is reduced, in that it has the same length (= width, when considered as forming a subterminal band; see Table 1), but does not extend so much onto the feather webs. The differences in tail pattern between dorsti and the various subspecies of C. ruficeps are reminiscent of those found between C. chiniana and C. bodessa (Erard 1974). (3) though light-coloured, the lores are not so white nor sharply con- trasting on the sides of the face, which look more rusty than in all the others. (4) cap and mantle appear more rusty and the upperparts more uniform, and this has the effect of making the fringes on the wing less conspicuous. Measurements and proportions Table 1. recapitulates the principal measurements of males in breed- ing dress belonging to the various subspecies of C. ruficeps and to C. dorsti. We find no difference in bill and tarsus lengths, nor in the length of the subterminal black spot on the tail-feathers. Some minor differences do exist in wing length but they are statistically significant (P<0.05, two- tailed Mann-Whitney U test) only between (1) ruficeps and guinea, (11) mongalla and guinea, and (111) mongalla and dorstt. On the other hand, striking differences appear in tail lengths and in the size of the apical white spot on the tail-feathers. Specimens of dorsti clearly have a longer tail (both absolute and relative lengths; see Table 1 and Figure 1) and a smaller white extremity on the tail-feathers than all the specimens of ruficeps. In order to synthesize these biometrical data, we ran a principal compo- nent analysis (PCA) based on log-transformed data on wing, tail, bill and tarsus lengths, and on lengths of white tip and of black subapical spot on the outer tail-feathers. We used only the 36 specimens for which we had complete sets of data: 6 nominate ruficeps, 7 mongalla, 17 guinea, 3 scotoptera and the 3 dorsti. Table 2 and Figure 2 give the results of this analysis. Clearly, tail length and pattern are important characters to distinguish dorsti from all subspecies of C. ruficeps. C. Chappuis & C. Erard 62 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) TABLE 1 Measurements (in mm) of breeding males of the various subspecies of Cisticola ruficeps and of C. dorsti sp. n. N Wing Tail Bill Tarsus White Black C.r.ruficeps 11 54.642.2 38.142.0 13.6+0.4 20.3+0.7 4.740.5 3.8+0.6 C.r. guinea 24 56.541.5 39.64+1.0 13.3+0.6 20.5+0.7 4.940.4 3.8+0.7 C.r. mongalla 9) 554.2 +0:9);38 BET 13:2220:3 ,20.2-40:5 5.5 50!89322EE 016 C.r. scotoptera Ae 95.7 22.1 391815113 OEE 0.4 2051 O76 Ze OD Seo Ol0 C. dorsti 3.75720 +0.5443:0:+ 0.5. 111373: 40.5 21.3212 SEE OSs BeEOSS Note. For every entry mean +standard deviation are given. ‘White’ and ‘black’ designate the width of the white apex and of the black subterminal band on the outer tail-feathers; N =6 for ruficeps. 19 for guinea, 7 for mongalla, 3 for scotoptera and dorsti. TABLE 2 Eigenvalues of principal components Component Percent of Cumulative number variance percentage 1 64.87 64.87 2 29.22 94.09 3 2.28 96.37 + 1.86 98.23 5 1.47 99.70 6 0.30 100.00 TABLE 3 Discriminant analysis for the various subspecies of Cisticola ruficeps and C. dorsti Discriminant functions 1 2 3 4 Eigenvalue 3.58 0.65 0.46 0.08 Relative percentage 74.93 13.66 9.64 1.77 Canonical correlation 0.88 0.62 0.56 0.27 wing 0.28 0.92 0.92 0.40 Standardized tail —1.00 1.00 —0.03 —0.18 discriminant bill 0.18 0.09 0.06 —0.65 function tarsus —0.53 —(0.40 0.08 0.57 coefficients white 0.64 0.59 0.46 0.19 black 0.34 —(0.09 0.18 —0.49 Using the same sets of measurements, we performed a discriminant analysis (DA) (Table 3 and Figure 3), from which it can be concluded that specimens of dorsti are biometrically separate from all the others. Other PCAs and DAs suggest that the multivariate distinction between dorsti and the others may be much clearer if one considers specimens from Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad, that is from the potential area of C. Chappuis & C. Erard 63 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) 45 43 41 39 37 35 52 54 56 58 60 62 Figure 1. Plot of tail versus wing for breeding males of the various subspecies of Cisticola ruficeps and C. dorsti. Measurements are inmm.1=C.r. ruficeps,2=C.r.mongalla,3=C.r. guinea, 4+=C.r. scotoptera, 5=C. dorstt. sympatry of dorsti with either guinea or nominate ruficeps. The results of this second series of analyses are based only on the 12 specimens for which we had a complete set of the measurements quoted above. They require confirmation based on a larger number of specimens. Bioacoustic analysis Cisticola ruficeps (1) Song Generally, a singing bout includes two song-types (A and B) in succession. A-songs consist of a long note slowly modulated in frequency (sometimes replaced by a short vibrant note of a complex tonal structure) introducing a phrase of a progressively falling overall tonality. This phrase consists of alternatively rising and falling notes. A-songs vary in length from 0.55 to 1.1 sec (Fig. 4A). They are regularly repeated, then replaced by B-songs. B-songs also are phrases consisting of the same kind of notes as in A- songs but their overall tonality rises, they rarely begin with an isolated note (Fig. 4B), and last 0.4 to 0.8 sec. C. Chappuis & C. Erard 64 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) Na”g C. Chappuis & C. Erard 65 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) These two song-types sound quite different. A-songs are roughly reminiscent of some whistles of Dendrocygna viduata. B-songs are similar to some phrases of Cisticola cinereola or C. lateralis. As far as pitch is concerned, C. ruficeps uses frequencies of 4-5 kHz for territorial advertising, but 5.5—6 kHz in conflict situations. (2) Call-notes Most are notes witha sharply and rapidly modulated frequency. Figure 4D illustrates an extreme case of variation from 1 to 8 kHz in 25 milli- seconds. These notes are grouped either in so rapid a rhythm that they sound like buzzes (Fig. 4E), or in a slower rhythm sounding lke rattles (Fig. 4F); but they may also be grouped so as to constitute a regularly repeated motif (Fig. 4D). There is also a long weakly modulated call-note which is in fact the note usually introducing the A-song type (Fig. 4C). Cisticola dorsti Though descriptions presented here are based on sonagraphic analysis of only two individuals, our impression that vocalisations of C. dorsti are less rich and varied than those of C. ruficeps is also based on a series of other individuals heard in the field, and in some cases tape-recorded (but unsuitable for spectrographic analysis). (1) Song There is only one type: a monotonous trill often introduced by a short vibrant note and followed by a regular repetition (4-6 times) of a simple motif, emphasized at the end and falling in pitch (Fig. 5B). The intro- ductory note (Fig. 5A) is analogous to the corresponding note of C. ruficeps (Fig. 4B), and is practically the only acoustic signal common to both species. The trill can be emitted with two different rhythms: a slow one of 10 motifs per sec (Fig. 5A), and a rapid one of 14.7—17.5 motifs per sec (Fig. 5B), used during territorial conflict. The mean pitch is the same for trills of both rhythms, in contrast to C. ruficeps which, as mentioned above, uses different frequencies in different behavioural contexts. (2) Call-notes The commonest call-note we heard was emitted in conflict situations. It is along, high-pitched and falling note, slowly modulated in frequency (Fig. 5C), whereas the analogous note of C. ruficeps is a rising one (Fig. 4C), scarcely used as a distinct call. Only once did we hear a repeated motif, made up of notes sharply and rapidly modulated from 3.5 to 8.5 kHz (Fig. 5D), analogous to C. ruficeps motifs (Fig. 4D). Figure 2. Principal component analysis (PC1 x PC2) based on measurements of breeding males of the various subspecies of Cisticola ruficeps and C. dorsti. Lengths of wing, tail, bill and tarsus were used, along with width of the white apical and black subterminal bands on the outer tail-feathers (log-transformed data). Upper graph: variables placed according to their eigenvalues on the first two principal components. Lower graph: location of the individuals. For symbols, see Fig. 1. C. Chappuis & C. Erard 66 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) 3.5 2.5 Discriminant function 2 -6.3 -4.3 -2.3 -0.3 1.7 3.7 Discriminant function 1 Figure 3. Discriminant analysis for the breeding males of the various subspecies of Cisticola ruficeps and C. dorsti. Letters locate the group centroids for: d=C. dorsti, g=C. r. guinea, m=C.r. mongalla, r=C.r. ruficeps,s=C.r. scotoptera. For symbols, see Fig. 1. Conclusion In spite of a thorough analysis of the material we have on hand, we find almost no common element to both C. ruficeps and C. dorsti. This was indeed the impression we had in the field. It may be rather surprising that these two morphologically very similar birds are acoustically so different, so one might be tempted to see in this situation the indication of a rather ancient evolutionary divergence. Habitat Many authors (e.g. Lynes 1930, Elgood 1982) consider that Cisticola ruficeps is a bird of grassy thorn-scrub, or grassy open areas with scattered trees or bushes. So it is interesting to note here that in our experience, two distinct species were suspected in the field not only because two separate vocal repertoires were heard but also (and perhaps especially) because these acoustical differences were associated with different habitat preferences. Short-phrase songs were emitted by birds perched 5—8m above ground, on top of small trees scattered among poor grasslands on sandy ground, with scanty bushes, 1.e. a sahel-like landscape. These birds were ruficeps, which in this habitat lives alongside the Desert Cisticola C. ‘sa}0U-]]B9 Jo sadA} INO} :.y pue | ‘q ‘D “(Anoraeyaq aAtssoi1dse Uv 9IvOIPUT satauanbadj ysty ay} 9194) youd ur Sursta saseryd yyM adAq Suos-g 3g ) smddeyg “9 Aq ssutpiooa1 wosy sumeiseu0g “sdasifna vjoIsID) “p 21NS1Y ‘youd ur Suryey saseryd yim addy Suos-y :yW (2H OOE “FY pueq spi 93S € A L ) | wy i! | | ih 7H ‘sa}0u-]][e9 Jo sad4q omy :q] puke d “WYIAY! Isey YITM Suos :g “WYIAYI MOTS YIM BUOS 2 “17S40p YjOIIISTD °G ANSI 995° € Z | L ) \ \e } : Minit 7° em 9 V \ \ ¥ 1 ~N NN Ie pedi ae ZY C. Chappuis & C. Erard 69 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) aridula, another species favouring this type of environment and a possible ecological competitor. On the other hand, trill-songs (1.e. dorsti songs) were emitted by birds perched 1—2 m above ground on top of stems or small bushes in grass steppe with clumps of thicket or even an important shrub layer; cassava plantations or old-fields are also inhabited by dorsztz. In fact, this simultaneous duality of songs and habitats could have been discerned in some previous descriptions, for instance in Mackworth- Praed & Grant (1973: 349). Distribution At present, the acoustically peculiar C. dorsti is known from north- western Nigeria around Gusau (12°12’N,6°40’E), from northern Cameroon near Mokolo (10°49'N, 13°54’E), in the Kapsiki range, and from southern Chad around Bekao (7°51'N, 15°58’E) and Baibokoum (7°46'N, 15°43’E). All these records were obtained in May and June 1972. In the same areas and at the same time, birds with typical C. ruficeps songs were recorded in northeastern Nigeria at Maiduguri (11°53'N, 13°16’E), in northern Cameroon at Mora (11°02'N, 14°07’E), a locality also in the Kapsiki range but at a lower altitude than dorsti, and in southern Chad north of N’Djamena (12°10’N, 14°59’E) and Moundou (8°35’N, 16°01’E). A specimen from Mora is C. r. guinea, others from the latter two Chadian localities are respectively nominate ruficeps and guinea. We have also examined breeding specimens of guinea from Nigeria (Maiduguriarea, Kafanchan and Jos plateau), northern Cameroon (Koza, Maroua, south of Garoua) and southern Chad (between N’Djamena, formerly Fort Lamy, and Sahr, formerly Fort Archambault). Thus dorsti and guinea can be considered as sympatric though they have not yet been found side by side. A more detailed altitudinal analysis of their distribution would be most useful. Conclusion These analyses led us to conclude that C. dorsti, being acoustically and morphologically peculiar, constitutes a single species distinct from C. ruficeps. We dedicate this species to Professor Jean Dorst, Membre de!’ Institut, past Director of the Muséum National d’ Histoire Naturelle, who headed the Laboratoire de Zoologie (Mammifeéres et Oiseaux) for almost thirty years. Diagnosis. Very similar to the Red-pate Cisticola Cisticola ruficeps (Cretzschmar) from which it can be distinguished by its buff vent and under tail-coverts, and its longer tail, with a greyer, less white, and narrower terminal band on the under-surface of the tail-feathers. In the present state of knowledge, the diagnosis is only applicable to birds in breeding dress. The non-breeding plumage, if present, remains to be studied. F.-C. Thibault S A. Varney 70 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Type. Male, tape-recorded and collected near Mokolo (10°49’N, 13°54’E), northern Cameroon, 7 June 1972, by C. Chappuis. Deposited in Museum National d’ Histoire Naturelle, Paris (C.G. 1977-58). Measurements of type. Wing 56.5 mm, tail 42.5 mm, bill 13 mm, tarsus 215mm: Original series. The type plus two other males from southern Chad, one from Baibokoum, tape-recorded and collected by C. Chappuis, 13 June 1972 (C.G. 1979-649), one from Bekao, collected by J. Vielliard, 2 August 1970 (C.G. 1972-79). Acknowledgements We are grateful to the curators who provided all facilities to examine the collections at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, the British Museum (Natural History) in Tring, the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, the Institut Royal des Sciences Naturelles de Belgique in Bruxelles, the Koninklyk Museum voor Midden-Africa in Tervuren, and the National Museum of Natural History (Smithsonian Institution) in Washington. The work of C. Erard in the U.S. museums was possible thanks to a grant from the Chapman Fund of the American Museum of Natural History. References: Chappuis, C. 1974. Illustration sonore de problemes bioacoustiques poses par les oiseaux de la zone éthiopienne. Alauda 42: 467-500. Elgood, J. H. 1982. The Birds of Nigeria. B.O.U. Check-list no. 4. British Ornithologists’ Union. Erard, C. 1974. The problem of the Boran Cisticola. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 94: 26-38. Lynes, H. 1930. Review of the genus Cisticola. Ibis (12)6, Suppl.: 1-673. Lynes, H. & Sclater, W. L. 1934. Lynes-Vincent tour in central and west Africa in 1930-31. Part IT. Zbzs (13)4: 1-51. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1973. Birds of West Central and Western Africa. Vol. 2. Longmans, London. Payne, R. B. 1986. Bird songs and avian systematics. Current Orn. 3: 87-126. Traylor, M. A., Jr. 1986. Genus Cisticola Kaup. Pp. 84-125 in E. Mayr & G. W. Cottrell (eds), Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 11. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Vielliard, J. 1972. Données biogéographiques sur l’avifaune de |’Afrique centrale. I. Alauda 40: 63-92. White, C. M. N. 1962. A check list of the Ethiopian Muscicapinae (Sylviinae). Part IT. Occas. Papers Natl Mus. South. Rhodesia no. 26B: 653-694. Addresses: C. Chappuis. Les Chardonnerets, Lotissement du Fer a Cheval, La Bouille, 76530 Grand-Couronne, France. C. Erard, Laboratoire de Zoologie (Mammiferes & Oiseaux), Muséum National d’ Histoire Naturelle, 55 rue Buffon, 75005 Paris, France. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Breeding seabirds of Rapa (Polynesia): numbers and changes during the 20th century by Ffean-Claude Thibault & Albert Varney Received 13 September 1990 The island of Rapa and its satellite islets, situated in the subtropical zone, have an assemblage of breeding seabirds that differs from the rest of F.-C. Thibault S A. Varney 71 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Polynesia in the following ways: the absence of Sula spp. and Sterna fuscata, and the predominance of petrels (7 of the 11 species; Garnett 1984, Holyoak & Thibault 1984). There are two endemic forms, Puffinus assimilis myrtae and Fregetta grallaria titan. Of all the other South Pacific archipelagos, Rapa is most similar to the Kermadec Islands (New Zealand) (41°, species in common: Robertson & Bell 1984, this study). Here we present new data on the distribution and numbers of breeding seabirds, and a comparison between today and the situation during the first part of the century, based on the results of the Whitney South Sea Expedition (WSSE), 1920-35. Rapa (27°37'S,144°20’W), Austral Islands, has an area of 40 km? and reaches a height of 650m. Politically part of French Polynesia, it is remote, +80 km from the closest island (Raivavae). It is surrounded by high and steep rocky coasts. There are 10 satellite islets (Fig. 1), the smallest measuring less than 1 hectare and the largest about 26 hectares. Table 1 presents information on the animals that have been introduced. There was considerable human influence in the past, as can be seen by the effects on plant life: cultivation (Xanthosoma sagittifolium on Tarakoi), land-clearing (remains of a grove of Metrosideros collina on Tauturou) and plants introduced by man. Today, only Karapoo rahi has an important grove of Pandanus tectorius which should be protected (Paulay 1982). Historical information comes mainly from Ernest Quayle’s journal, written during the Whitney South Sea Expedition to Rapa from 14 to 20 April 1921 and from 15 to 26 February 1922 (Bryan, MS). J.-C. Thibault was there from 15 October to 17 December 1974, and J.-C. Thibault and A. Varney between 18 December 1989 and 6 January 1990. Diurnal seabird numbers were estimated by counting nests with egg or chick, and the total adult population on the site. Nocturnal or burrowing petrels (Fregetta grallaria on Tarakoi Islet, and Pterodroma nigripennis on Tauturou Islet) were estimated by counting the occupied nests in plots (3 of 728m? for F. grallaria and 10 of 100m for P. nigripennis). The number of breeding pairs was then estimated on the basis of the total area available for the birds (Table 2). Systematic list KERMADEC PETREL Pterodroma neglecta Breeds on certain cliffs on the main island (Makatea, Tevaiputa), and on rocky faces and slopes inland (Haurei, Pukumaru, Mauroa, Perau). ‘There were no more than a few dozen pairs. On the islets: breeds on Rapa iti (2-3 p.), Tauturou (7-10 p.), Karapoo iti (10-20 p.), Karapoo rahi (100-500 p.). Total population was estimated at less than 1000 pairs. MURPHY’S PETREL Pterodroma ultima Breeds exclusively on a limited number of islets (Rapa iti, Tauturou, Tapiko, Karapoo rahi and Karapoo iti). Population was estimated at 10—99 pairs. J.-C. Thibault S A. Varney 72 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) 0 RARAPAI 0 TARAKOI fond) RAPA ITI TAUTUROU aD K ARAPO'O RAHI '¢ O KARAPOO ITI Figure 1. Rapa and its islets. BLACK-WINGED PETREL Pterodroma nigripennis In 1974, bred on Rapa iti and Tauturou (population estimated at 200— 300 pairs). In 1989, a more precise count, at a better time of year, gave an estimate for the colony on Rapa iti around 34-50 p., and on Tauturou of 657 p. (185-1645, 95°% confidence limits). CHRISTMAS SHEARWATER Puffinus nativitatis Breeds on Tarakoi (5-10 p.), Karapoo iti (>100 p.), Karapoo rahi (> 10 p.) and perhaps a few pairs on Tauturou. LITTLE SHEARWATER Puffinus assimilis In 1974, bred on Tauturou (200-300 p.) Rapa iti (40—50 p.), Karapoo iti (15-20 p.) and Karapoo rahi (<10 p.). Absent from breeding locality F.-C. Thibault S A. Varney 73 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) TABLE 1 Introduced animals on Rapa and its islets Area Rattus Oryctolagus Capra Felis Number of seabird Island (ha) exulans cuniculus hircus catus species breeding Rapa > 4000 P — 5-6000** | P 5-7 Rapa iti t-3-5 1g — 23x — 8-9 Tauturou 26 le Bx — — 8 Tapiko <1 — — — — 3-5 Karapoo iti 10 p.), Rarapai (>50 p.), Rapa iti (> 50 p.) and Karapoo iti (50-99 p.). Population was estimated at 1000-2000 pairs. J.-C. Thibault S A. Varney 74 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) TABLE 2 Numbers of breeding seabirds on Rapa and its islets (expressed in pairs) Pterodroma_ Pterodroma_ Pterodroma Puffinus Puffinus Island neglecta ultima nigripennis nativitatis assimilis Rapa several — — ? ? dozens Rapa iti 2-3 P 34-50 — 40-50 ‘Tauturou 7-10 Pp 657 several 200-300 (185-1645) Tapiko — BP — — — Karapoo iti 10-20 |e — > 100 15-20 Karapoo rahi 100-500 P = >10 <10 Rarapai = _ — _ — ‘Tuamotu —— = — — — ‘Tarakoi —= = = 5-9 — Totals B3 B2 B3 B3 B3 Fregetta Nesofregetta Phaethon Procelsterna Anous Gygis Island grallaria _fuliginosa_ _—_—rubricauda cerulea stolidus alba Rapa — = several several E 1e hundred dozens Rapa iti ? — 5-10 >50 20-50 <15 ‘Tauturou — — — >10 20-50 60-80 ‘Tapiko 10-50 ? — ? 20-25 — Karapoo iti P ? 5-10 50-100 100-200 — Karapoo rahi = —— 10-30 — 10-99 100-999 Rarapai 10-99 25-99 5 >50 80-100 — Tuamotu — = = = — = ‘Tarakoi 357 10-99 8-15 100-500 50-100 — (288-412) Totals B3 B3 B3 B4 B4 B4 B2 population estimated at 10—99 pairs. B3 population estimated at 100-999 pairs. B4 population estimated at 1000-9999 pairs. P present. BROWN NODDY Anous stolidus Breeds in limited numbers on cliffs on the main island. On the islets, breeds on Tarakoi (50-99 p.), Rarapai (80—99 p.), Rapa iti (20—50 p.), Tauturou (20-50 p.), Karapoo iti (100-200 p.), Karapoo rahi (10-99 p.) and Tapiko (20-25 p.). Population was estimated at 1000-2000 pairs. FAIRY TERN Gygis alba Breeds on the main island (rocky faces of Ahurei: 20-30 p.) and a very limited number in the inland forests, except in one locality (Maii) where it is relatively numerous. On the islets: Tauturou (60-80 p.), Karapoo rahi (100-999 p.) and Rapa iti (<15 p.). Population was estimated at 1000-2000 pairs. F.-C. Thibault S A. Varney 75 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Discussion Trends in diversity Two species found today were not mentioned by the Whitney South Sea Expedition in 1921-22. Nesofregetta fuliginosa has a seasonal breeding period below this latitude (Rapa, Gambier) lasting from the beginning of summer until the beginning of the southern winter (Lacan & Mougin 1974, Holyoak & Thibault 1984), which suggests that the species may have been absent during the visit of the WSSE. It was discovered in October 1974 (Holyoak & Thibault 1984). Secondly, Pterodroma nigripennis was probably absent from Rapa at the beginning of the century. Its breeding is also seasonal and the WSSE took place during the chick-rearing season. The WSSE searched in vain for the “‘blue shear- water” on Rapa and the islets, including the two islets where the species nests today (Quayle, MS). In April 1925, Kelsall did not find any either, although he found an example of Puffinus assimilis, a species which breeds in the same sites as P. nigripennis. In his list compiled during the 1920s, Stokes did not mention its Polynesian name (tztz), although he cited other seabirds’ names (Stokes & Marshall 1955); this indicates that the inhabi- tants of Rapa did not know the species well enough to give it a name. However, near Marotiri (=Bass I.), situated 83 km south of Rapa, the WSSE collected three specimens and said that the species was “‘plenti- ful’. Found breeding in 1974 (Holyoak & Thibault 1984), it seems that the species colonized Rapa during the 20th century, during which period it expanded in the South Pacific (Imber 1985). Trends in population numbers A careful reading of the information in the WSSE’s journals, compared to the data gathered in 1974 and 1989, indicates no real decrease in the population of any species between 1922 and 1989, except for Gygis alba, which Quayle said was numerous in wooded ravines, although this was not confirmed in 1974 and 1989. It may have been preyed upon by feral cats, although these were already present at the time of the WSSE (Quayle, MS). While chicks of some petrels (Pterodroma neglecta, P. ultima, Puffinus nativitatis) were taken for food at the beginning of the century and up until 1970, they are not eaten today, thanks to a better standard of living and the availability of imported food (e.g. frozen chickens). Actually, the WSSE found very few P. neglecta on the breeding sites despite the fact that their visit corresponded to the chick-rearing season. Quayle (MS) found remains of fires with burned petrel bones. Thus the change in human activities may have been beneficial to the petrel populations. Feral cat and rat predation Rattus exulans is found on the main island and most of the islets, with the exception of Rarapai, Tarakoi, Tapiko and Karapoo iti, and seems to have an adverse impact on the seabirds (Moors & Atkinson 1984), especially smaller species. It is relevant to note that the four islets mentioned above are the only ones where many storm-petrels are found breeding. It seems J.-C. Thibault S A. Varney 76 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) probable that the chicks are preyed upon or that the adults are occasion- ally disturbed by the rats, a general situation in Eastern Polynesia (Gambier, Marquesas; pers. obs.). Cats were introduced on the main island at an unknown date. Quayle (MS) noted their presence during his visit. The decrease of the Gygis alba population on the main island could be due to cats, and their presence could equally explain why P. neglecta’s nests are situated on inaccessible cliffs (cf. their situation on islets, where they nest on flat ground). Influence of goats on the islets Goats disturb the breeding seabirds, but more importantly, their pres- ence leads to over-grazing, which in certain areas, e.g. Tauturou, causes soil erosion (see Trichet et al. 1986 for Rapa, Daly & Goriup 1987 for the general situation on the islets), creating poor conditions 1n the long run for the petrels which breed in burrows. The largest colony of P. neglecta is found on the only islet (Karapoo rahi) where there is an important grove of Pandanus tectorius, and the petrels often breed at their base. Elsewhere (e.g. Tauturou) exotic species (e.g. Guava Psidium cattleanium, a goat refuse) took advantage of other plants which were eliminated. However the development of the Guava on this islet did not affect P. nigripennis, which dig holes under their covering. After comparing information on the seabird populations at the begin- ning and the end of the 20th century, it appears that the general situation, while improved, is still precarious, since the most abundant species are still not very numerous. Various conservation measures (classifying the islets as nature reserves, eliminating the goats) have been suggested to the authorities. The seabird population of the Marotiri islets (83 km south of Rapa) has been insufficiently surveyed, but it is probably similar to that on Rapa (Quayle MS, Fosberg 1972). These islets are rarely visited and landing is especially difficult, which suggests that the birds are well ‘protected’. However, as the extent of flat areas is less than 10 ha, the number of breeding birds is probably not large. Thus particular attention should be paid to the bird population, and especially to the two endemic forms, on Rapa and its satellite islets. Acknowledgements This work was accomplished for the Polynesian Ministry of Health, Scientific Research and Environment (FIRST no. 90/0008). We express our thanks to Claude Monnet and Philippe Siu for their help and encouragement in the organization of the expedition, to Lionel Watanabe, Mayor of Rapa, for his welcome, to Dr Vincent Bretagnolle who improved the MS with his criticisms and to Dr Jean-Louis Martin (AMNH, New York) who kindly made available the information concerning the Whitney South Sea Expedition to Rapa. References: Bryan, E. H., Jr. MS. Chronological summary and guide to the Whitney Expedition Journals. "American Museum of Natural History, New York. Daly, K. & Goriup, P. 1987. Eradication of feral goats from small islands. 1.C.B.P. Study Report 17: 1-46. Fosberg, J. R. 1972. Marotiri (Bass Rocks), Austral Islands. Atoll Res. Bull. (162): 9-10. Garnett, M. C. 1984. Conservation of seabirds in the South Pacific Region: a review. Pp. 547-558 in J. P. Croxall, P. G. H. Evans & R. W. Schreiber (eds), Status and Conservation of the World’s Seabirds. 1.C.B.P. Tech. Publ. 2. R. A. Beavers et al. 77 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Holyoak, D. T. & Thibault, J.-C. 1984. Contribution a l’etude des oiseaux de Polynésie francaise. Mém. Mus. Natl Hist. Nat. 127: 1-209. Imber, M. J. 1985. Black-winged Petrel, in Complete Book of New Zealand Birds. Reader’s Digest, Sydney. Lacan, F. & Mougin, J.-L. 1974. Les oiseaux des iles Gambier et de quelques atolls orientaux de l’archipel des Tuamotu (Océan Pacifique). Ozseau 44: 191-280. Moors, P. J. & Atkinson, I. A. E. 1984. Predation on seabirds by introduced animals, and factors affecting its severity. Pp. 667-690 zm J. P. Croxall, P. G. H. Evans & R. W. Schreiber (eds), Status and Conservation of the World’s Seabirds. 1.C.B.P. Tech. Publ. 2. Paulay, G. 1982. Rapa Island and its weevils. Discovery 16: 25-31. Robertson, C. J. R. & Bell, B. D. 1984. Seabird status and conservation in the New Zealand region. Pp. 573-586 in J. P. Croxall, P.G. H. Evans & R. W. Schreiber (eds), Status and Conservation of the World’s Seabirds. 1.C.B.P. Tech. Publ. 2. Quayle, E. H. MS. Journal of the Whitney South Sea Expedition. Vols H & I. American Museum of Natural History, New York. Stokes, J. F. G. & Marshall, D. S. 1955. Language in Rapa. 7. Polynesian Soc. 64: 331-340. Trichet, J., Jamet, R. & Gautheyrou, J. 1986. Reconnaissance des sols et des alterations de Vile de Rapa. Pp. 75-103 in Rapa. Direction des centres d’expeérimentations nucléaires, Lefrancq, Candé. Addresses: J.-C. Thibault, Antenne du Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle et de l’Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, Centre de l'Environnement, B.P. 1013, Papetoai- Mo’orea, Polynésie francaise. Present address: Parc naturel régional de la Corse, B.P. 417, F-20184 Ajaccio. A. Varney, Institut fran¢ais de Recherche Scientifique pour le Développement en Coopération (ORSTOM), Centre de Tahiti, B.P. 529, Pape’ete, Polynésie frangaise. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 New and noteworthy bird records from Peten, Guatemala, including Tikal National Park by Randell A. Beavers, Dale 7. Delaney, Christopher W. Leahy & G. Frank Oatman Received 31 August 1990 The inaccessible nature of the Department of Peten, Guatemala, has undoubtedly played a role in the limited amount of ornithological explo- ration in the region. Distribution records on the birds of Peten have been given by Moore (1859), Sclater & Salvin (1859), Sclater (1860, 1886), Salvin (1863, 1866), Salvin & Godman (1879-1904), Ogilvie-Grant (1893), Lantz (1899), Ridgway (1901-1950), Griscom (1932), Van Tyne (1935), Taibel (1955), Edwards (1959), Smithe & Land (1960), Smithe & Paynter (1963), Smithe (1966), Land (1970), Eisenmann (1971), Brodkin & Brodkin (1981), Ellis & Whaley (1981), and Wendelken & Martin (1986); and there are unpublished specimen records from the 1962 Milwaukee Journal! Milwaukee Public Museum expedition. From these sources, a total of 381 species of birds have been recorded from this Department, of which approximately 294 were found in Tikal National Park. R. A. Beavers et al. 78 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) During the course of an ongoing project to compile all historical and recent field records for An Annotated Checklist of Birds of Petén, Guatemala, new information on the distribution and occurrence of 73 species of birds has been accumulated. Presented here are 3 records new for Guatemala and at least 35 records new for Petén (bringing the number of species reported from this Department to 416), and 60 records new for ‘Tikal (bringing the total species reported from this park to at least 354). New migratory arrival/departure records, seasonal records and range extensions in Petén are too numerous to report here. These data will be presented in subsequent publications. Data in this report are based primarily on reliable sight records supported by photographs, sound recordings and/or detailed observation notes provided by various individuals noted herein. Original records from The Peregrine Fund’s raptor censusing project, discussed in Burnham et al. (1988, 1989), are also incorporated. In all, over 5000 man- hours of observation records were accumulated between March 1967 and October 1990, mostly (nearly 4000 man-hours) during the last 4 years. Field work was conducted primarily in the central regions of Peten, a transitional zone between the Tropical Dry Forest and Tropical Moist Forest as described by Holdridge (1967). To the north, on the Yucatan Peninsula, the tall forest gradually yields to a scrub forest as the climate becomes drier. To the south, in the Caribbean Lowland, the rainfall increases and the forest becomes more evergreen, stratified and diverse. In central Petén, much of the primary forests has been modified over the years by slash-and-burn and clear-cutting practices. However, healthy primary forests remain intact within the protected confines of Tikal National Park. Areas of concentrated study included the Lago Petéen-Itza region and the surrounding towns and villages; the adjoining roads and roadsides from the lake area southwest towards La Libertad which con- sists of open savannah with few trees, thickets and seasonal bajos, south towards Santa Ana dominated by hilly fragmented forests with clearings and thickets in the lower areas, east towards Belize containing extensive clearings with scattered trees and a few remnant riparian woodlands associated with intermittent streams, and north to the entrance of Tikal National Park with large cleared areas, scattered woodlands, second growth forests, thickets and several villages; all of Tikal National Park dominated by tall forests, scattered low forests and some disturbed, open areas, and north along the road to Uaxactun with habitats similar to Tikal. Both permanent and temporary aguadas (small ponds) exist throughout the region. Records from more remote areas of Peten, such as west of Lago Peten-Itza and north of Uaxactun, are also presented in this report (see Fig. 1). The nomenclature and sequence used in the species accounts follow that of the American Ornithologists’ Union (1983, 1985, 1987, 1989). After asummary of the historical records, we give the new distributional data, including observation date(s), locality(s), observer(s) and the type of record each represents, and any additional relevant records. Since the status of the species dealt with here is thought to have changed signifi- cantly in the Peten from that assigned by Smithe (1966) and/or Land (1970), a revised current status is also provided. Nine species presented R. A. Beavers et al. 79 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) 90° MEXICO S& NGNNEES Dos Lagunas Chuntugui Uaxactun u o i: San Miguel 47° BEESEEZ E KSEE NNN Lago Peten-lt SS ig Tropical Dry RNS Forest IS CZ __ Tropical Moist Ua Lj Forest OMe ° ie) Figure 1. Localities in Central Peteén. here might be considered hypothetical in Peten and need further docu- mentation to confirm their occurrence. The status of these species 1s listed as ‘uncertain’. Species assigned to the status of ‘visitor’ are ones that breed outside of the study area and are not thought to occur regularly (annually) as transients or winter residents. Avian distributional areas used in this account generally follow those used by Land (1970). The following abbreviations are incorporated in the species accounts for frequently cited localities and records: Localities—ER = El] Remate, Fl= Fores, Guat = Guatemala, LPI = Lago Peten-Itza, rd=road, LL = La Libertad, SA=Santa Ana, STE=Santa Elena, and Tikal='Tikal National Park; Type of record—NG = new record for Guatemala, NP= new record for Petén, NT=new record for Tikal National Park. The observers responsible for new records are indicated by their initials, their names being listed under Acknowledgements. Many other observers were responsible for additional records noted in the species accounts. The authors’ initials are also incorporated where appropriate (RB= Randy Beavers, DD = Dale Delaney, CL=Christopher Leahy and FO = Frank Oatman). Species accounts THICKET TINAMOU Crypturellus cinnamomeus Known throughout N Petén, including nearby Uaxactun and Chuntuqui (Van Tyne 1935, Taibel 1955, Land 1970), but no Tikal records have been reported. 30 Oct 84 at Tikal (2 seen) by SNGH—NT; R. A. Beavers et al. 80 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) numerous additional reports of hearing this species at Tikal 1986—90. Current status: probable local resident, both inside and outside of Tikal. BROWN PELICAN Pelecanus occidentalis Previously known in Peten from one record in 1968 (month?) at Yaxha (Land 1970). 12 Jun 77 at Tikal by RAR—NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 17 Feb 89, at LPI in Mar 78, Feb 88, Feb and Sep 89, and along rd between ER and Tikal on 28 Feb 88. Current status: visitor over Tikal; more common at LPI. LEAST BITTERN Ixobrychus exilis Land (1970) indicates this species is rare in the Petén, and no park records have been reported. 6 June 1957 at Tikal by EE—NT; additional sightings at Tikal in Jan 1977. Current status: visitor; possible local resident. WHITE IBIS Eudocimus albus Previous occurrence of this species in Petén is unclear (see Land 1970). 13 Apr 90 at Dos Lagunas N of Uaxactun by JV—possible NP. Current status: visitor; possible local resident in low, wet areas outside of Tikal. JABIRU Jabiru mycteria Previously known in Petén only from SW region (Land 1970). 7 Feb 78 at Tikal by FO—NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 2 Jan 89, 4 Jan 90 and 2 Mar 90, at LPI on 13-16 Aug 76, and at Sayaxche on 10 Feb 78. Current status: visitor at Tikal; possible resident in remote bajos outside of Tikal. LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE Cathartes burroviannus Not previously recorded from Guat, but known from the Yucatan Peninsula and Belize (Russell 1964, Ornat e¢ al. 1989). 10 Jan 70 N of San Jose in the Department of Escuintla (and regular occurrence thereafter) by PA—NG; 20 Mar 78 at LPI by CL—NP,; additional sighting at LPI on 19 Mar 80, and occasional reports from the Caribbean Lowlands. Current status: visitor outside of Tikal. OSPREY Pandion haliaetus Previously known in Petén only from 5S region (Land 1970). 18 Apr 88 at Tikal by RT—NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 14 Feb and 16 Apr 89, and at LPI on 13-16 Aug 74, 18 Feb 75 and 7-15 Feb 88. Current status: visitor; possible rare but regular transient and winter resident. GRAY-HEADED KITE Leptodon cayanensis Previously known in Guat only from the Pacific Lowlands and Foot- hills of the western Highlands (Land 1970, Griscom 1932, Vannini 1989b). 4 Dec 75 on rd between LL and Sayaxchée by RR—NP; 27 Feb 88 at Tikal by FO, BW—NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 15 Jun 88, 15 and 23 Feb 89, 27 Feb and 1 Mar 90, along rd between STE and Tikal entrance on 14 Feb and 21 Sep 89, along rd between STE and SA on 18 Feb 89, and along rd between LPI and Sayaxché on 20 Mar—4 Apr 76. Current status: visitor; probable resident. R. A. Beavers et al. 81 Bull, B.O.C. 1991 111(2) SNAIL KITE Rostrhamus sociabilis Previously known in Peten only from three records near LPI (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Van Tyne 1935, Taibel 1955). 22 Sep 89 at Tikal by CA, RB, CB, MBr, RBr, LS—NT; additional sightings at LPI on 19 Mar 80 and 9, 14 Feb 88. Current status: visitor at Tikal; resident at LPI and larger aguadas. SHARP-SHINNED HAWK Accipiter striatus Previously known in Guat from the Caribbean and Pacific Subtropics and Lowlands, Arid Interior and western Highlands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Griscom 1932, Land 1970, Wendelken & Martin 1986, Vannini 1989a, 1989b). 18 Feb 77 along rd between LPI and Sayaxche by FO—NP,; 7 Feb 88 along rd at Tikal entrance by DD—NT; one sighting of a well documented A. striatus chionogaster (white-breasted form) on 27 Feb 88 at Tikal by BW. Current status: uncertain; possible visitor. COOPER’S HAWK Accipiter cooperii Previously known in Guat from the western Highlands W of Guat City and near Coban (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Land 1970, Vannini 1989a, 1989b). 16 Mar 87 along rd between ER and Tikal entrance by PJ—NP. Current status: uncertain; possible visitor. SOLITARY EAGLE Harpyhaliaetus solitarius Previously known in Guat from the Department of Baja Verapaz and Pacific Slope of western Highlands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Land 1970, Vannini 1989a, 1989b). 11 Mar 86 at Tikal (courting pair vocaliz- ing) by FO, BW—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 18 Mar 88 and 4 Mar 89 at very close range. Current status: uncertain; possible visitor. SHORT-TAILED HAWK Buteo brachyurus Previously known in Guat from the Departments of Alta Verapaz, Izabal (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Land 1970, Wendelken & Martin 1986), Escuintla (P. Alden, pers. comm.), Chiquimula, and from the western Highlands (Vannini 1989a, 1989b; S. N. G. Howell, pers. comm.). 20 Feb 71 at Tikal by PA—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 18 Aug 76, 11 Mar 86, 27 Feb, 4 Mar and 19 Jun 88, 5 Jan 89, 9-10 Feb 90, and annually outside of Tikal 1972-1989. Current status: local resident. ZONE-TAILED HAWK Buteo albonotatus Previously known in Guat from the Pacific Lowlands and western Highlands (Griscom 1932, Land 1970, Vannini 1989a, 1989b). 16 Feb 88 at Tikal by EC—NP, NT; additional sightings along rd between ER and Tikal entrance on 21 Sep 89 and 22 Mar 90. Current status: visitor outside of Tikal; probable transient in this part of range. CRESTED EAGLE Morphnus guianensis Previously known in Petén from 5—7 Apr 66 30-50 km E of FI (Ellis & Whaley 1981), and 24 Jan and 7 Feb 78 in SE region (C. Leahy, pers. obs.). 11 Apr 88 at Tikal by RT—NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 23 Sep 89 and monthly Feb—May 90. Current status: visitor; possible local resident. R. A. Beavers et al. 82 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) BLACK-AND-WHITE HAWE-EAGLE Spizastur melanoleucus Previously known in Peteén from SC region (Land 1970) and at LPI in Aug 76 (C. Leahy, pers. obs.). 15 Feb 89 at Tikal by FO—NT; additional sightings on 6 Mar 88 along rd between ER and Tikal entrance and 13 May 89 at Tikal. Current status: visitor; probable local resident. COMMON MOORHEN Gallinula chloropus Previously recorded once in Petén from SW region (Land 1970). 30 Dec 70-2 Jan 71 at Tikal by RA—NT; numerous annual sightings there- after through 1990 at Tikal, Aug—Mar. Current status: transient and winter resident. GREATER YELLOWLEGS Tyinga melanoleuca Previously known in Petén from extreme SW region in Mar and Apr (Land 1970). End of May 66 at Tikal by LM (P. Alden, pers. comm.)— NT; additional sightings at Tikal in Feb and May 88. Current status: visitor; possible regular transient (no fall records). LESSER YELLOWLEGS Tinga flavipes Previously known in C Peteén from one record on 20 Sept 23 at LL (Van Tyne 1935). One sighting reported in Feb 88 at Tikal by EC—NT. Additional Peten record reported at LPI on 9 Feb 88. Also, there is a report of this species being found as a prey item in the nest of Falco deiroleucus at Tikal (Burnham et al. 1989). Current status: visitor; probable regular transient. WESTERN SANDPIPER Calidris mauri Previously known in Guat from coastal regions and Pacific Slope lakes (Griscom 1932, Land 1970). 12 Oct 90 at Tikal by RB—NP, NT. Current status: visitor. LEAST SANDPIPER Calidris minutilla Previously known in Guat from the Pacific and Caribbean Lowlands and Volcanic Highland lakes (Dearborn 1907, Griscom 1932, Land 1970). 9 Feb 78 at LPI by FO—NP; 30 Oct 84 at Tikal by SNGH—NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 3 May 88. Current status: visitor; probable regular transient. STILT SANDPIPER Calidris himantopus Previously known in Guat from the Volcanic Highland lakes (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Land 1970) and Pacific coast (C. Leahy, pers. obs.). 20 Mar 78 at LPI by CL—NP. Current status: visitor. WILSON’S PHALAROPE Phalaropus tricolor Previously known in Guat only from the Pacific Lowlands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904). 3 May 88 at Tikal by RT—NP, NT. Current status: visitor. LAUGHING GULL Larus atricilla Previously known in Guat only from the Pacific and Caribbean coasts and Vocanic Highland lakes (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Griscom 1932, Land 1970). 16 Jan 70 at LPI by PA—NP,; additional sightings at LPI on 17-18 Feb 75, 22—23 Feb 77, 9 Feb 78, 13 Feb 87, 6—9 Feb 88, R. A. Beavers et al. 83 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) 12-14 Feb 89, 10 Feb and 22 Mar 90. Current status: (winter) visitor at PT. RING-BILLED GULL Larus delawarensis Previously known in Guat only from Lake Atitlan in the Volcanic Highlands (Land 1970). 9 Feb 78 at LPI by FO—NP; additional sighting at LPI on 13 Mar 88. Current status: visitor at LPI. ROYAL TERN Sterna maxima Previously known in Guat from the Pacific and Caribbean coasts (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Land 1970) and Lago de Izabal (C. Leahy, pers. obs.). 10 Feb 88 at LPI by DD—NP; additional sightings at LPI on 14 Feb 88, 12 Feb 89 and 7 Jan 90. Current status: (winter) visitor at LPI. ROCK DOVE Columba livia Land (1970) indicates domestication in ‘most’ parts of country, but no Tikal records are known. 19-20 Feb 77 at Tikal by FO—NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 15 Nov 77 and 14 Mar 88. Current status: visitor at Tikal; local resident in towns and villages outside of Tikal. PALE-VENTED PIGEON Columba cayennensis Known as a resident in the rather open second growth areas outside of Tikal (Van Tyne 1935, Taibel 1955). 20 Feb 75 at Tikal by TD (P. Alden, pers. comm.)—NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 5 May 88. Current status: visitor at Tikal; resident outside of Tikal. RED-BILLED PIGEON Columba flavirostris First reported in literature from Petén in Jun 80 at Polol (Brodkin & Brodkin 1981); but recorded earlier at Sayaxcheé on 3 Feb 69 by NC, BM. 14 Feb 89 at Tikal by JA, FO—NT; additional sightings along rds between STE and LL, and STE and SA, on 6—15 Feb 88 and 13-18 Feb 89, and along rd between ER and Tikal on 10—12 Feb 90. Current status: visitor at Tikal; probable resident locally outside of ‘Tikal. MOURNING DOVE Zenaida macroura Previously known in Guat from the Arid Interior, Pacific Subtropics, western Highlands and Pacific Lowlands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Ridgway 1901-1950, Griscom 1932, Land 1970, Vannini 1989a). 17 Nov 77 at LPI by FO—NP; 28 Oct 84 at Tikal by SNGH—NT; additional sightings along rd between STE and Tikal entrance on 1—14 Feb 88 and 16 Feb 89. Current status: visitor outside of Tikal; irregular at Tikal; possible regular transient and winter visitor. INCA DOVE Columbina inca Land (1970) suggests this species may occur as a resident in the savannahs S and W of LPI. This is probably the locality of the specimen reported in Moore (1859). March 1972 at Tikal by TD (C. Leahy, pers. comm.)—NT; additional sightings near LPI on 18 Feb 75 and 26—29 Nov 76. Current status: visitor. GRAY-CHESTED DOVE Leptotila cassinit Land (1970) indicates this species is a rare resident in the southern half of Peten. 9 Apr 88 at Tikal by EC—NT. Current status: uncertain; possible local resident outside Tikal. R.A. Beavers et al. 84 Bull. B.-O.C. 1991 111(2) BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO Coccyzus erythropthalmus First reported in literature from Petén on 2 Jun 85 near LPI by Wendelken & Martin (1986); but recorded earlier at Tikal on 19 Aug 76 by CL—NT. Current status: visitor. YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO Coccyzus americanus First reported in literature from Petén on 13 Jun 80 at Polol by Brodkin & Brodkin (1981); however, an earlier record was noted at Tikal on 14 Aug 78 by CL—NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 15 Apr 89. Current status: visitor; possible regular transient. SPECTACLED OWL Pulsatrix perspicillata Previously known in Petén from S and E regions, including one record at Yaloch near Belize, but no Tikal records have been reported (Van Tyne 1935, Land 1970). 17 Jan 77 at Tikal by LK—NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 27 Jan 77 and one heard calling and tape recorded on 1 Mar 90. Current status: visitor at Tikal; probable resident locally outside of 'Tikal. LEAST PYGMY-OWL Glaucidium minutissimum Land (1970) indicates this species should occur in Peten, but no records are known. 10-13 Nov 78 at Tikal by RAR—NP, NT; additional record 12 Mar 86 at Tikal (2 heard calling only, tape recorded). Current status: uncertain; possible visitor at Tikal; possible resident locally outside of Tikal. COMMON POTOO Nyctibius griseus Regarded by Land (1970) as an uncommon resident throughout most of Peten. Despite a specimen collected at nearby Uaxactun by Van Tyne (1935), no Tikal records are known. 17 Feb 89 along Tikal entrance rd by JA, FO—NT. Current status: visitor at Tikal; resident locally outside of Tikal. WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT Streptoprocne zonaris Known to occur in S Petén in winter (Land 1970). 15 Jan 70 at Tikal by CL—NT,; additional sightings at Tikal on 2-3 Feb and 4-5 Dec 75, 15-16 Nov 77, 14 Feb 81, 4 Mar 86, 16 Feb 89 and 28 Mar 90. Current status: (winter) visitor. BLACK-CRESTED COQUETTE Lophornis helenae First reported in literature from Petén on 26 Feb 84 and 27 Feb 85 at Tikal by Wendelken & Martin (1986); however, there is an earlier record from Tikal on 18 Jan 77 by CL—NP, NT; additional sightings were also reported at Tikal in Feb 78 and Mar 81. Current status: (winter) visitor. AZURE-CROWNED HUMMINGBIRD Amazilia cyanocephala Previously known in Petén only from one record in SE region (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904). 15 April 89 at Tikal by MBr, RBr, EF—NT. Current status: visitor. BERYLLINE HUMMINGBIRD Amazilia beryllina Previously known in Guat from the Pacific Lowlands, Arid Interior and in the Caribbean Lowlands N to the Peten border (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Dearborn 1907, Griscom 1932, Land 1970). 28 Aug 77 at Tikal by JS—NP, NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 18 Jan 89 and inS R. A. Beavers et al. 85 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) Petéen on 24+ Aug 77. The January 89 bird was well documented by BM, JP, noting characteristics to distinguish from similar A. tzacatl and A. yucatanensis. Known to wander to lower, more humid forests in non- breeding season (Monroe 1968, A.O.U. 1983). Current status: uncertain; possible visitor. RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD Archilochus colubris Previously known in Peten from one record near SA (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904). 17 Jan 77 (and several times through 28 Jan) at Tikal by CL—NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 11 Feb 87, 19 Jan and 24 Sep 89, 18-19 Mar 90 and 11 Oct 90. Current status: transient and winter resident. RUFOUS-BREASTED SPINETAIL Synallaxis erythrothorax Land (1970) indicates this species 1s ‘probably’ fairly common in 5 Peten, but gives no records. 16 Mar 67 at Sayaxche by PA—NP; 2 Feb 75 at Tikal by CL—NT; additional sightings from various areas S of LPI 1970—90. Current status: visitor at Tikal; resident locally S of LPI. STREAK-HEADED WOODCREEPER Lepidocolaptes souleyetii Known throughout most of Petén, including nearby Uaxactun (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Van Tyne 1935, Land 1970), but no Tikal records have been reported. 3 Feb 75 at Tikal by CL—NT; numerous additional reports from Tikal in 1975, 1977-78 and 1986-90. Current status: resident, both inside and outside of Tikal. SLATY ANTSHRIKE Thamnophilus punctatus Previously known from the humid forests of the Caribbean Lowlands of Guat and from S Belize (Land 1970). 27 Aug 77 at Tikal by JS—NP, NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 6 Jan 89. Current status: uncertain; possible visitor (resident?). YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA Elaenia flavogaster Land (1970) indicates this species is an uncommon resident in Petén, but no Tikal records are known. 7 Jun 57 at Tikal by EE(K. Ladwig, pers. comm.)—NT; additional sighting at Tikal 16 Nov 77. Current status: visitor at Tikal; resident locally outside of Tikal. SLATE-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER Todirostrum sylvia First reported in C Petén on 21 Apr 23 at San Miguel (Van Tyne 1935). 4 Jan 75 at Tikal by CL—NT; numerous additional sightings in disturbed areas from both inside and outside of Park in 1976 and 1986—90. Current status: resident. WILLOW FLYCATCHER Empidonax traillii Smithe (1966) describes the Alder Flycatcher (EF. alnorum by current taxonomy) as the common fall migrant Empidonax. Subsequent examin- ation by A. R. Phillips of 15 specimens collected by F. B. Smithe deter- mined 6 to be E. alnorum and 9 to be E. traillii (R. A. Paynter, Jr., pers. comm.). EF. traillii had not been reported from Peten—NP, NT. Current status: transient; no confirmed spring records. R. A. Beavers et al. 86 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) LOVELY COTINGA Cotinga amabilis Previously known in Guat from the Caribbean Lowlands and Sub- tropics (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Dearborn 1907, Land 1970). 15 Jan 70 at Tikal by PA—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal 18 Mar and 23 Jun 88 and Jul 90 (photographed), along rd between LL and Sayaxche 6 Dec 75, near LPI 20 Mar 87, and along rd between STE and SA 17 Feb 89. Current status: visitor (seasonal?); possible local resident. TREE SWALLOW Tachycineta bicolor Previously known in Guat from the western and central Highlands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Dearborn 1907, Land 1970). Land (1970) further indicates this species is found over ‘much’ of the country, but gives no records for Petén. 5 Feb 69 at Tikal by NC, BM, FO—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 26 Aug 77 and 25—28 Feb 90, and along rd near STE on 18 Mar 90. Current status: visitor; probable regular transient. BANK SWALLOW Riparia riparia Previously known in Guat from the Volcanic Highlands and Caribbean Lowlands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Land 1970) and Pacific Low- lands (C. Leahy, pers. obs.). 26 Aug 76 at Tikal by JS—NP, NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 5 May 88. Current status: visitor; probable regular transient. CLIFF SWALLOW Hirundo pyrrhonota Likely to be seen anywhere in Guat, but no records are known from Peten (Land 1970). 17-19 April 72 at Tikal by TD (C. Leahy, pers. comm.)—NP, NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 21 Mar 90. Current status: visitor; possible regular transient; no fall records. BAND-BACKED WREN Campylorhynchus zonatus Previously known in Petén from east-central region and at Polol (Van Tyne 1935, Land 1970, Brodkin & Brodkin 1981) but no Tikal records known. 24 Mar 90 at Tikal by CB, JM, BN—NT. Current status: visitor at Tikal; resident locally outside of ‘Tikal. HOUSE WREN (southern form) Tvroglodytes aedon musculus Previously known throughout Petén (Van Tyne 1935, Taibel 1955, Land 1970), but no Tikal records have been reported. 8 Mar 87 at Tikal by CA, RB—NT; numerous additional sightings at Tikal 1988-90. Current status: resident. BLACK CATBIRD Velanoptila glabrirostris Previously known in Guat from two Petén records on 27 Jun 23 at Ixtinta and 19 Jun 32 near LPI (Van Tyne 1935, Taibel 1955). 26 Aug 86 at Tikal by CA—NT; additional sighting on 18 Mar 90 along rd near STE. Current status: local resident. WARBLING VIREO l/7reo gilvus Previously known in Guat from the Arid Interior, Pacific Subtropics and from moderate elevations in western Highlands as transient from 28 Sep to 2 Apr (Dearborn 1907, Griscom 1932, Land 1970). 17 Feb 75 at Tikal by FO—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal 20 Mar—4 Apr and R. A. Beavers et al. 87 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) 26-29 Nov 76, 19-22 Feb and 15-16 Nov 77, 7-8 Feb 78 and 17 Apr 89. Current status: visitor; probable regular transient. RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE Cyclarhis gujanensis Previously known in Guat from the Pacific and Caribbean Subtropics and Foothills, and from moderate elevations in western and central High- lands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Griscom 1932, Land 1970). 14 Aug 76S of LPI by CL—NP,; additional sightings from various areas 5 of LPI 1-20 Feb 88, 13-18 Feb 89 and 22 Mar 90. Current status: resident locally SofdePI. ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER Vermivora celata Previously known in Guat as a winter visitor in the Highlands, Caribbean Lowlands and S Petén (Land 1970). 9 Oct 90 at Tikal by RB, CB, CS—NT. Current status: visitor; possible regular transient. NASHVILLE WARBLER Vermivora ruficapilla Previously known in Guat from the western and central Highlands, Subtropics and Pacific Lowlands (Griscom 1832, Land 1970). 21 Feb 75 at Tikal by CL—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 2 Jan 76, 14 Feb 81 and 19 Jan 89. Current status: (winter) visitor. VIRGINIA’S WARBLER Vermivora virginiae Not confirmed as occurring 5 or E of Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Mexico; however, there was a report of this species 1n Belize on the 89th Christmas Bird Count (Howell 1989). 23 Feb 77 near LPI by FO—NG, NP. This very unusual record was well documented, noting all characteristics to distinguish from similar species, except perhaps pale individuals of V. ruficapilla. Current status: uncertain; possible visitor. NORTHERN PARULA Parula americana Previously known in Guat from the Pacific and Caribbean Lowlands (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Dearborn 1907, Land 1970). 15 Jan 70 at Tikal by PA—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal in Jan and Feb 71. Current status: visitor. CAPE MAY WARBLER Dendroica tigrina Previously known in Guat from the western Highlands (Mason 1976; P. Alden, pers. comm.) and Caribbean Lowlands (C. Leahy, pers. obs.). 2 Feb 75 at Tikal by CL—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal (probably of same bird) on 4, 20 Feb 75. Current status: visitor. YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER Dendroica dominica Previous occurrence of this species in Petén is unclear (see Land 1970). Reported in Tikal in Mar 72 by CL—NT (possible NP); additional sight- ings at Tikal on 20-22 Feb 73, 18 Feb 75, 15 Nov 77, 18 Mar 88, 4 Jan 89 and 18-19 Mar 90, and near LPI on 22 Feb 75. Current status: probable regular transient and winter resident. GRACE’S WARBLER Dendroica graciae Previously known in Guat only from the pine and pine-oak woodlands of the Caribbean Subtropics (Land 1970). 5 Sep 77 in a grove of pines approximately 40km S of FI by JS—NP. Current status: uncertain; possible visitor to the pine ridges of SE Petén. R.A. Beavers et al. 88 Bull. B.-O.C. 1991 111(2) BAY-BREASTED WARBLER Dendroica castanea First reported in literature from Petén at Tikal on 7 May 82 by Wendelken & Martin (1986); but recorded earlier at Tikal on 18 Apr 72 by TD; additional sightings on 22—29 Mar 81, 27 Oct 84, 26 Feb and 2 Mar 90. Current status: visitor; probable regular transient. SWAINSON’S WARBLER Limnothlypis swainsonit Not previously recorded from Guat, but known from the Yucatan Peninsula and S Chiapas in Mexico, and Belize (Paynter 1955, Russell 1964, Lynch 1989, Ornat et al. 1989, Rangel-Salazar & Vega-Rivera 1989). 8 Feb 78 at Tikal by FO—-NG, NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal 16-18 Feb 89 (at least 2 separate birds). Current status: visitor. GRAY-CROWNED YELLOWTHROAT Geothlypis poliocephala Previously known in Petén from 2 records outside Tikal on 8-11 May 23 at Chuntuqui and 1 Jul 23 at Gavilan (Van Tyne 1935). 5 Feb 69 at Tikal by NC, FO—NT; additional sighting at Tikal 10-11 Feb 87, and near LPI on 17 Jan 77 and annually thereafter through 1984, and 13 Feb 87. Current status: resident outside of ‘Tikal; possible resident locally in Tikal. CANADA WARBLER Wlsonia canadensis Previously reported throughout Guat, except from Peteéen (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Griscom 1932, Land 1970). Reported:at Tikal on 7 Mar 72 by NP—NP, NT; additional sightings at Tikal on 26—29 Nov 76, 20, 23 Sep 89 and 11 Oct 90. Current status: visitor; probable regular transient. RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER Basileuterus rufifrons Known in Guat from the Highlands, ranging down into the Caribbean Lowlands near the S Peten border (Land 1970). 16 Jan 89 along rd between STE and Tikal by JSp—NP; 18 Jan 89 at Tikal by CA—NT. Current status: uncertain; possible visitor. BLUE-GRAY TANAGER Thraupis episcopus Land (1970) reports this species as an uncommon resident throughout Peten, but no Tikal records are known. 30 Dec 70-2 Jan 71 at Tikal by RA—NT; numerous additional sightings nearly every year since first record. Current status: resident. SCARLET TANAGER Piranga olivacea Previously known in Petén from a few spring and fall reports, but no ‘Tikal records have been reported (Land 1970). 4 Dec 75 at Tikal by RR— NT; additional sighting at Tikal on 11 Oct 90. Current status: visitor; possible regular transient; Dec record particularly unusual. BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR Saltator maximus Previously known in Guat from the Caribbean Lowlands and Sub- tropics (Salvin & Godman 1879-1904, Dearborn 1907, Griscom 1932, Land 1970). 20 Mar—4 Apr 76 S of LPI by RAR—NP; additional sight- ings from various areas S of LPI on 11 Feb and 10-13 Nov 78, 1-19 Feb R.A. Beavers et al. 89 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) 88, 14, 18 Feb 89, 22 Mar and 7 Oct 90. Current status: resident locally S of LPI. YELLOW-BILLED CACIQUE Amblycercus holosericeus Land (1970) reports this species as an uncommon resident in Petéen, but no Tikal records are known. 15 Apr 89 at Tikal by MBr, RBr, EF—NT. Current status: visitor at Tikal; resident outside of Tikal. Acknowledgements The authors wish to thank all of those who have shared their personal data (and that of their co-observers), and those who have assisted in the field. They include Carl Aiken (CA), Peter Alden (PA), John Arvin (JA), Robert Askins (RA), John Baird, Bob Barth, Robbie Beavers, Bob Behrstock, Chris Benesh (CBe), Carol Bookout (CB), Major Bowles, Marcia Braun (MBr), Ron Braun (RBr), Howard Brokaw, Caroline Callery, Norm Chesterfield (NC), Elbert Cleaveland (EC), Tom Davis (TD), Earnest Edwards (EE), Bill Fritz, Emery Froelich (EF), Michael Gochfeld, Steven Hilty, Steve N. G. Howell (SNGH), Peter Jenny (PJ), Lawrence Kilham (LK), Katrina Ladwig, Jane Lyons, Bertha Massie (BM), John MecMillon (JM), Bill Mealy (BM), Lee Morgan (LM), Blanca Noel (BN), Jim Powell (JP), Pat Powell, Noble Proctor (NP), Robert Ridgely (RR), Rose Ann Rowlett (RAR), Linda Schooley (LS), Jeffrey Schultz, Carol Sloan (CS), Jan Smith (JS), Jane Sparrow (JSp), Dave Stejskal, Tim Sullivan, Russell Thorstrom (RT), Gloria Tveten, John Tveten, Jan Vannini (JV) and Bret Whitney (BW). J. Peter Jenny and the staff of The Peregrine Fund were particularly helpful with their suggestions, comments and detailed attention given to this report. Raymond A. Paynter, Jr. of the Harvard University Museum of Comparative Zoology is thanked for the valuable data provided from F. B. Smithe’s collection. Nathan Kraucunas of the Milwaukee Public Museum is appreciated for providing specimen records from western Petén. For reviewing the manuscript, we wish to thank J. Peter Jenny, John P. O'Neill, John L. Tveten and Jay P. Vannini. Their comments and suggestions were most helpful. The senior author is deeply grateful to Guatemala’s tourism department, INGUAT, for their assistance during various stays in Guatemala, and to the Spring Branch Independent School District Board of Trustees for granting time away from the Science Center to conduct the field work. Antonio Ortiz, proprietor of the Jungle Lodge, is thanked for sharing his special knowledge of the region and for his never-ending hospitality. References: American Ornithologists’ Union. 1983. Check-list of North American Birds, 6th ed. American Ornithologists’ Union. American Ornithologists’ Union. 1985. Thirty-fifth supplement to the American Ornithol- ogists’ Union Check-list of North American Birds. Auk 102: 680-686. American Ornithologists’ Union. 1987. Thirty-sixth supplement to the American Ornithologists’ Union Check-list of North American Birds. Auk 104: 591-596. American Ornithologists’ Union. 1989. Thirty-seventh supplement to the American Ornithologists’ Union Check-list of North American Birds. Auk 106: 532-538. Brodkin, H. & Brodkin, P. 1981. Summer birds at Polol, Guatemala. Continental Birdlife 2: 111-117. Burnham, W. A., Jenny, J. P. & Turley, C. W. 1988, 1989. (Progress Reports) Maya Project: Investigation of Raptors and Their Habitats as Environmental Indicators for Preserving Biodiversity and Tropical Forests of Latin America. The Peregrine Fund, Inc., World Center for Birds of Prey, Boise, ID. Dearborn, N. 1907. Catalogue of a collection of birds from Guatemala. Publ. Field Mus. Nat. Hist. 125. Orn. Series 1: 69-138. Edwards, E. P. 1959. Nesting of Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift in Guatemala. Auk 76: 358-359. Eisenmann, E. 1971. Range expansion and population increase in North and Middle America of the White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus). American Birds 25: 529-536. Ellis, D. H. & Whaley, W. H. 1981. Three Crested Eagle records for Guatemala. Wilson Bull. 93: 284-285. Griscom, L. 1932. The Distribution of Bird-life in Guatemala. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 64. R. A. Beavers et al. 90 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Holdridge, L. R. 1967. Life Zone Ecology. Tropical Science Center. San José, Costa Rica. Howell, S. N. G. 1989. Mexico, Belize—Regional Summary of the 89th (1988) Christmas Bird Count. American Birds 43: 1210-1211. Land, H. C. 1970. Birds of Guatemala. Livingston Publishing Co. Wynnewood, PA. Lantz, D. E. 1899. A list of birds collected by Col. N.S. Goss in Mexico and Central America. Trans. Kansas Acad. Sci. 16: 218-224. Lynch, J. F. 1989. Distribution of overwintering nearctic migrants in the Yucatan Peninsula, I: general patterns of occurrence. Condor 91: 515-544. Mason, C. R. 1976. Cape May Warblers in middle America. Auk 93: 167-169. Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1968. A Distributional Survey of the Birds of Honduras. Orn. Monogr. no. 7. American Ornithologists’ Union. Moore, T. J. 1859. List of mammals and birds collected by Joseph Leyland in Honduras, Belize and Guatemala. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1859: 50-65. Ogilvie-Grant, W. R. 1893. Catalogue of the Birds of the British Museum. Vol. 22. Trustees of the British Museum, London. Ornat, A. L., Lynch, J. F. & DeMontes, B. M. 1989. New and noteworthy records of birds from the eastern Yucatan Peninsula. Wilson Bull. 101: 390-409. Paynter, R.A., Jr. 1955. The Ornithogeography of the Yucatan Peninsula. Bull. Peabody Mus. Nat. Hist. 9. Rangel-Salazar, J. L. & Vega-Rivera, J. H. 1989. Two new records of birds for southern Mexico. Condor 91: 214-215. Ridgway, R. (and H. Friedmann, Pts 9-11) 1901-1950. The Birds of North and Middle America. Bull. U.S. Natl Mus. 50 (Pts 1-11). Russell, S. M. 1964. A Distributional Study of the Birds of British Honduras. Orn. Monogr. no. 1. American Ornithologists’ Union. Salvin, O. 1863. Descriptions of seventeen new species of birds discovered in Central America by F. D. Godman and O. Salvin. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1863: 186-189. Salvin, O. 1866. A further contribution to the ornithology of Guatemala. [bis (2)2: 188-206. Salvin, O. & Godman, F. D. 1879-1904. Biologia Centrali- Americana. Vols. 1—3 (Aves). Taylor & Francis, London. Sclater, P. L. 1860. Notes on a collection of birds from the vicinity of Orizaba and neighbouring parts of southern Mexico. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1860: 250-254. Sclater, P. L. 1886. Catalogue of the Birds in the British Museum. Vol. 11. Trustees of the British Museum, London. Sclater, P. L. & Salvin, O. 1859. Contributions to the ornithology of Central America. [bis (1)1: 1-22, 117-138, 213-234. Smithe, F. B. 1966. The Birds of Tikal. The Natural History Press, Garden City, N.J. Smithe, F. B. & Land, H. C. 1960. First record of Cattle Egrets in Guatemala. Auk 77: 218. Smithe, F. B. & Paynter, R. A., Jr. 1963. Birds of Tikal, Guatemala. Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. 128: 245-324. Taibel, A. M. 1955. Uccelli del Guatemala con speciale riguardo alla region del Petén raccolti dal Maggio al Settembre 1932. Atti Soc. Ital. Sci. Nat. 94: 15-84. VanTyne, J. 1935. The Birds of Northern Petén, Guatemala. Misc. Publ. Univ. Mich. Mus. Zool. 27. Vannini, J. P. 1989a. Listado Preliminar de las Aves de Finca el Faro, Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. Publicaciones Ocasionales de la Fundacion Interamericana de Investi- gacion Tropical, no. 2. Guatemala City. Vannini, J. P. 1989b. Neotropical raptors and deforestation; notes on diurnal raptors at Finca El Faro, Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. 7. Raptor Research 23: 27-38. Wendelken, P. W. & Martin, R. F. 1986. Recent data on the distribution of birds in Guatemala. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 106: 16-21. Addresses: Randell A. Beavers, Science Center, 8856 Westview Drive, Houston, Texas 77055, USA: Dale J. Delaney, VENT, Inc., P.O. Box 33008, Austin, Texas 78764, USA; Christopher W. Leahy, Massachusetts Audubon Society, South Great Road, Lincoln, Massachusetts 01773, USA: G. Frank Oatman, Stone’s Throw, Craftsbury, Vermont 05826, USA. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 T. A. Parker & O. Rocha O. 91 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) Notes on the status and behaviour of the Rusty-necked Piculet Pzcumnus fuscus by Theodore A. Parker, III & Omar Rocha O. Received 4 October 1990 The Rusty-necked Piculet Pzcuwmnus fuscus is a small woodpecker known from fewer than 10 specimens collected along the middle Rio Guapore (or Rio Iténez) of Brazil/Bolivia. Because there is apparently no pub- lished information on its status and behaviour, we here report recent observations from eastern Bolivia. On 21 August 1990, during an avifaunal survey of lowland forests of eastern Departamento Beni, Parker and Rocha found this piculet to be fairly common in seasonally flooded forests along the Rio Guaporé/ Itéenez in the vicinity of Versalles, a small Bolivian village on the west bank of the river. We first found a pair with a canopy mixed flock of woodcreepers, formicariids and other small insectivores (e.g. Sittasomus griseicapillus, Xiphorhynchus picus, Xenops tenuirostris, Pygiptila stellaris, Myrmo- therula assimilis, M. axillaris and M. menetriesi1) that foraged at 10-16 m in the viny canopy of stunted river-edge forest on the Brazilian side of the river. The piculets hopped quickly along slender vinelets and dead branchlets, tapping vigorously as if to dislodge small insects from the bark. Later, we watched a family of 4 (perhaps 5) P. fuscus as they foraged in tangles of slender, spineless bamboo stalks and vines in the understory and at mid-heights 2—5 m above ground in the same forest. The male sang regularly and responded strongly to playbacks by flying to within 2 m of us and rocking up and down on its perch. Male song was a series of 4-5 thin but protracted seet notes. The female sang a similar but shorter song. All individuals in the group uttered soft pszt notes while foraging. T'ape- recordings of these vocalizations are housed in the Library of Natural Sounds, Cornell University (Ithaca, New York). The primary song of Picumnus fuscus is very like that of Picumnus aurifrons borbae, which we thought we heard in high-ground forest west of Versalles. We also heard P. fuscus ina small area of flooded forest on the Bolivian side of the river, c. 500 m south of the village. From water marks on the trees on both sides of the river, we assume that P. fuscus habitat is inundated by up to 2m of water during the wet season. A variety of other flooded forest species were observed in this habitat, including Myrmotherula assimilis and Schiffornis major. The presumed adult Picumnus fuscus that we observed had unmarked, mainly buff-coloured underparts, in contrast to the adult pictured on Plate 3 of Short (1982). Although the ventral pattern and preference for riverine forest would suggest a close relationship with P. castelnau, the vocalizations of P. fuscus clearly place it in a group with P. exilis and Py aurifrons. The very different trilled songs of P. castelnau are shared by the majority of Picumnus species, including all members of the cirratus group known to us (i.e. minutissimus, dorbygnianus, steindachneri and temmincki). G. Servat & D. L. Pearson 92 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) To our knowledge, this is the only bird species restricted to the Rio Guaporeé drainage of Bolivia/Brazil. Short’s (1982) inclusion of Dpto. Beni, Bolivia, in the range of P. fuscus is based on three previously unpub- lished specimens, one male and two females collected by Juan Cuello on the Bolivian side of the Rio Guapore “frente a Costa Margues”’ on 30 August and 4 September 1964 (American Museum of Natural History nos. 791898-900; A. Capparella, in litt.). Picumnus fuscus i is in no way threatened by the deforestation occurring in other parts of southwestern Brazil, as the 500 km section of the Rio Guapore from Pimenteiras to Guayaramerin is largely uninhabited and almost continuously forested along the river (pers. obs.). Furthermore, a large portion of the species’ range apparently lies within the Reserva Biologica do Guapore, Rondonia, Brazil. Reference: Short, L. L. 1982. Woodpeckers of the World. Delaware Mus. Nat. Hist., Monogr. Ser., no. 4. Addresses: 'T. A. Parker, III, Conservation International, Washington D.C., and Museum of Natural Science, 119 Foster Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, U.S.A. Omar Rocha O., Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Calle 26 Cota Cota, Casilla 8706, La Paz, Bolivia. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Natural history notes and records for seven poorly known bird species from Amazonian Peru by G. Servat & D. L. Pearson Received 22 October 1990 The goal of this article is to report new or additional data on the behav- iour, natural history and distribution of seven poorly known bird species from Amazonian Peru. The majority of these records are from or near the Pakitza guard station in the Reserved Zone on the eastery boundary of Manu National Park, Department of Madre de Dios (11°57’S, 71°15'W), and near the Pithecia guard station (Cocha Shinguito) on the Samiria River of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, Department of Loreto (5°S, 74°30'W). All specimens collected are housed in the Collection of Birds, Natural History Museum of San Marcos University, Lima, Peru. SOUTHERN SCREAMER Chauna torquata On7 September 1989 as we ascended the Madre de Dios River in canoes, an individual was observed on a sandy beach 12 km NW of the gold- mining settlement of San Francisco (c. 52 km NW Puerto Maldonado). Over 25 observers in the two canoes noted the reddish legs, white cheeks and throat, and overall greyish body that distinguished it from the larger, G. Servat S D. L. Pearson 93 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) darker and common screamer species of the area, the Horned Screamer Anhima cornuta. We observed the individual for more than 5 minutes as it repeatedly flew up the beach several metres at a time in front of the canoes. Only one additional record of Southern Screamer is known for Peru, also in the Department of Madre de Dios but from SE of Puerto Maldonado on the Tambopata River (Parker 1982). The nearest known breeding populations are in the northwestern part of the Department of Beni, Bolivia (Gyldenstolpe 1945, Pearson 1975). BLACK-BELLIED CUCKOO Piaya melanogaster This species was found regularly but in small numbers in tall flood- plain forest +km south of Pakitza. Normally we saw it in large mixed- species flocks foraging in the lower portion of the canopy. This cuckoo is rarely found at the Cocha Cashu Biological Station 10 km upriver from Pakitza (S. K. Robinson, pers. comm.) even though virtually identical flood-plain forest occurs there. Its ecological relationship with the more common and widespread congener, the Squirrel Cuckoo P. cayana, is unclear. The latter species occurs in a broad range of habitat types from primary forest to secondary forest whereas the Black-bellied Cuckoo 1s more limited to primary forest. North of Pakitza at Yarinacocha, Depart- ment of Ucayali (O’ Neill & Pearson 1974), and south of Pakitza at ‘Tambopata Reserved Zone, Department of Madre de Dios (T. A. Parker, pers. comm.), the two species are regularly seen in the same habitat of tall primary forest. AMAZONIAN UMBRELLABIRD Cephalopterus ornatus On 7 September 1989, we observed a single male fly across the Madre de Dios River 5 km NW of the settlement called San Francisco (45 km NW Puerto Maldonado). Its undulating, woodpecker-like flight together with an erect crest facilitated the identification. It then landed in Cecropia trees on the bank of the river where it fed on fruits a few minutes before flying out of sight and away from the river. This species has been spottily recorded from lower stretches of the Madre de Dios River but is evidently much rarer in the upper parts of this drainage (Snow 1982). No records are known from the extensively studied lowland areas of Manu (Terborgh et al. 1984). PERUVIAN RECURVEBILL Simoxenops ucayalae This species is endemic to southeastern Peru and is most frequently found in bamboo stands (Guadua spp.) and occasionally canebrakes (Gynerium spp.) (Parker 1982, Parker & Remsen 1987). Very few speci- mens have been collected and none from the Manu area. In February 1990 we collected a male 0.6 km E of Pakitza. It weighed 50 g; had moult- ing feathers on the head, belly and tail; the cranium was 75% ossified; gonads were 42mm; and the stomach contained palpi of spiders, mandibles of larval beetles and cerci of earwigs (Dermaptera). LONG-CRESTED PYGMY-TYRANT Lophotriccus eulophotes Only a few records of this endemic species are known from south- eastern Peru and adjacent northwestern Bolivia (Parker & Remsen 1987). We found it to be regular but uncommon in the vicinity of Pakitza. Virtually all of our observations of this species were in or near bamboo G. Servat S D.L. Pearson 94 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) stands. About 40% of the individuals were loosely associated with mixed- species flocks. The rest of the observations were of solitary birds giving their high pitched vocalizations (Parker & Remsen 1987) from a perch in relatively dense vegetation 3 to 6 m above the ground. We collected two specimens at Pakitza. The first was from a bamboo stand in September 1988. It was an unsexed juvenile weighing 5.5 g; no moulting feathers; 25° ossification of the cranium; and stomach contents were 100° insect remains. The second was a female from alluvial terrace forest with small stands of bamboo in September 1989. It weighed 6.0 g; moulting feathers on the body and head; 50% ossification of the cranium; ovary 7 X 3 mm; and stomach contents were beetle remains. WING-BANDED WREN Microcerculus bambla A female weighing 17 g (gonads 4 x 2:5 mm) was mist-netted at Pakitza in September 1989. Moulting was evident on the breast, and the stomach contained 100% insect remains including many beetle parts. The habitat in which this specimen was collected was primary forest on flood-plain soil. The congener VM. marginatus (Nightingale Wren) was common in this habitat, but no other individuals of the Wing-banded Wren were observed or captured. Only one previous specimen has been collected in Peru, also near Pakitza (AMNH 824080). Terborgh et al. (1984) report several observations of Wing-banded Wrens from Cocha Cashu, but it is also very rare there. Evidently these two species tend to separate generally by altitude in areas of sympatry in eastern Ecuador and eastern Peru with the Wing-banded Wren more common at higher altitudes (Ridgely & Tudor 1989). ECUADORIAN CACIQUE Cacicus sclateri We found this species to be common and regular along the middle and upper stretches of the Samiria River in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. A specimen was collected from this site earlier (Ridgely & ‘Tudor 1989). This species is known from only one other locality in Peru (Huampami, Department of Amazonas); a specimen record from the Rio Curaray, Department of Loreto, is of dubious origin (T. Parker, pers. comm.). We recorded its ringing song, peé-chur, peé-chur, peé-chur, chur-chur- chur, which was heard throughout the day in the middle and upper strata of the flood-plain forest. One pair came to the large red flowers of a leguminous tree (flower heights 4-10 m) on the edge of the river every day between 13.00 and 14.30 for two weeks (20 May-—2 June 1990). They actively probed the corollas of the flowers for nectar or insects. Both individuals would call back and forth to each other. At this close range the pale blue eye and the pale bluish bill tipped with yellowish were obvious. Direct comparisons of the similar congener C. solitarius (Solitary Cacique) were possible, as the two species frequently called from the same area. Although the Solitary Cacique tended to feed lower in the vegetation near the river, both species occasionally occurred together in the mid strata of open flood-plain forest. Only the Ecuadorian Cacique, however, regularly associated with other species such as Troupial [cterus icterus, Paradise Tanager Tangara chilensis, and Masked Crimson Tanager Ramphocelus nigrogularis. The larger body size, all pale-green bill, dark eye and the R. B. Payne 95 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) louder more slurred song of the Solitary Cacique served to readily distinguish it from the Ecuadorian Cacique. Acknowledgements This research was funded by grants from the Neotropical Biological Diversity Program, U.S. National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, and sponsored by the Universidad Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru. T. L. Erwin assisted in the field work, and early drafts of the article were critically reviewed by J. V. Remsen and T. A. Parker. This article is no. 11 of the Biological Diversity in Latin America (BIOLAT) contribution series. References: Gyldenstolpe, N. 1945. A contribution to the ornithology of northern Bolivia. Kungl. Svenska Vet.-Akad. Handl. 23: 1-300. O'Neill, J. P. & Pearson, D. L. 1974. Un estudio preliminar de las aves de Yarinacocha, Depto. Loreto, Peru. Publicaciones del Museo de Historia Natural “‘favier Prado’, Lima, Ser. A 25: 1-13. Parker, T. A. III 1982. Observations of some unusual rain forest and marsh birds in southeastern Peru. Wilson Bull. 94: 477-493. Parker, T. A. ITI & Remsen, J. V. Jr. 1987. Fifty-two bird species new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 94-107. Pearson, D. L. 1975. Range extensions and new records for bird species in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. Condor 77: 96-99. Ridgely, R.S. & Tudor, G. 1989. The Birds of South America. Vol. 1, The Oscine Passerines. Univ. Texas Press, Austin, Texas. Snow, D. 1982. The Cotingas. British Museum (Nat. Hist.), and Oxford Univ. Press. Terborgh, J., Fitzpatrick, J. W. & Emmons, L. 1984. Annotated checklist of bird and mammal species of Cocha Cashu Biological Station, Manu National Park, Peru. Fieldiana ( Zool.) 21: 1-29. Addresses: Grace Servat, Museum of Natural History, San Marcos University, Apartado 140434, Lima 14, Peru. David L. Pearson, Department of Zoology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991. Female and first-year male plumages of paradise whydahs Vidua interjecta by Robert B. Payne Received 13 November 1990 The brood parasitic West African Broad-tailed Paradise Whydah Vidua interjecta occurs across Upper and Lower Guinea through northeastern Zaire. Its distribution is associated with its foster species, the Red-winged Pytilia Pytilia phoenicoptera (Nicolai 1964, Hall & Moreau 1970, Payne 1985). Although V. interjecta is known from museum skins and field observations of males in breeding plumage, the female and nonbreeding male have not been described. The plumage of females and nonbreeding males may be as significant as that of the males in identification and in evaluating species relationships among the whydahs (Payne 1971). R. B. Payne 96 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Vidua interjecta (Grote, 1922) was described from a male taken in breeding plumage in Central African Republic near Mbaiki, where both Pytilia phoenicoptera and P. hypogrammica occur (Carroll 1988). Vidua longicauda (Chapin, 1922), described later (see Chapin 1929, Bannerman 1949) from the Uelle area, Zaire, where Chapin also collected P. phoent- coptera, is considered conspecific with V. interjecta. V. interjecta has a more mesic, southern distribution in West Africa than the widespread Paradise Whydah lV. paradisaea (subspecies orientalis from Sudan and Chad, aucupum from Nigeria to Senegal) and its foster species the Melba Finch Pytilia melba. Female V. interjecta A female whydah was tentatively identified as V. interjecta by her associ- ation in a pet shop with a male V. interjecta. Both birds were of unknown origin, imported in 1987 from West Africa through Senegal. The whydahs were photographed, and colours of bill, feet and eye were noted and compared with a reference (Kornerup & Wanscher 1968) including Methuen colour names and codes. Paradise whydahs, like most whydahs, mimic the songs of their foster species (Nicolai 1964, Payne 1973a,b, 1980, 1985, 1990). The male was tape recorded. His songs included mimetic phrases identical with the songs (to-wzt-to-wit) and calls (pzk) of P. phoenicoptera that I have recorded both in captivity and in the field at Yankari National Park, Nigeria (see Guttinger & Nicolai 1975, Crick & Marshall 1981, Payne 1985). The whydahs were observed in an aviary through 3 years. The two associated together; their foster species was not present. The male completed two cycles of moult then was saved as a study skin (UMMZ 228,180) as was the female (UMMZ 228,179). In breeding plumage the male had long central (R2) rectrices broad (not tapered) near the tip, 304 mm in length, 26 mm high (unflattened and perpendicular to the feather shaft) measured 60 mm from the tip and 26 mm at 120 mm from the tip. The ornate tail was similar in form to the holotypes of V. interjecta (Berlin Museum no. 950, taken near Mbaiki, Central African Republic) and V. longicauda (AMNH 161,938 from Faradje, Uelle District, Zaire) and in three breeding male specimens in UMMZ taken in 1968 near Zaria, Nigeria (Payne 1985). Plumage of nape and breast was dark brownish red (Methuen 8C7), the belly was pale yellow (4A3) extending over 66% of the ventral surface. The nape was dark and the same colour extends across the upper breast, as occurs 1n V. interjecta and not in the paler Slender-tailed Paradise Whydah V. togoensis. The wing (flattened) is 79.6 mm, the tail (excepting the two central pairs of rectrices) is 61 mm, the bill from head is 10.1 mm, bill from nostril 7.3 mm, and the tarsus 17.1 mm. The bill was black. The tarsi were dark grey (8D3) on the lateral surfaces to pinkish (8B3) on ankle and toes. No swellings or mites were apparent; the pale colour may have been due to low hormones (colours were described after four months in captivity), though I have not noted pale colours in captive V. p. paradisaea kept over years. The female plumage is streaky above. The pattern on the head has a pale buff (Methuen 5A3) crown streak over a dark brown side crown streak, bordered by a pale streak (5A3), with a dark brown streak through R.B. Payne 97 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) TABLE 1 Variation in wing length (mm) of paradise whydahs Sex n Range Mean+SD V. p. paradisaea' m: 54 74-81 Tigo) eas Ish) V. p. paradisaea 98 76-81 78.66+1.64 V. p. orientalis 68 73-80 77.43 41.93 V. p. aucupum 62 72-80 75.544+1.88 V. interjecta 39 76-82 ASOD 52 V. togoensis 15 74-78 76.60+1.59 V. obtusa 137 81-87 83.30+1.47 V. p. paradisaea'* fi 11 71-76 74.364 1.43 V. p. paradisaea® 18 73-79 76.11+1.81 V. p. orientalis & aucupum® 11 71-74 73.00+ 1.10 V. interjecta’ 3 74-76 75.00 V. obtusa® 11 77-84 79.73 42.42 ‘Sudan (eastern Equatoria and eastern border), Ethiopia and Somalia *Kenya to South Africa (Payne 1980) ‘males in breeding plumage, identifiable by size and shape of central rectrices, and colours of nape and breast *females identified from association with males in range of V. paradisaea in west and northeastern Africa and outside the ranges of V. interjecta, V. togoensis and their foster species *Springbok Flats, Transvaal (cf. Payne 1971) °excluding Gambia, where both Pytilia melba and P. phoenicoptera occur *this paper *Mwinilunga District, northwestern Zambia (cf. Payne 1971) the eye. The face otherwise is unmarked and buffy (near 5A3). The plumage is streaked black and light brown (5D5) above and greyish orange (5B3 or darker) below on the breast, and the belly 1s whitish. The outer retrices have a 1—2 mm wide white border. In life the bill was light orange (6A5), the feet were pastel red (7A4), and the iris was slaty brown or “‘reddish brown’ (8E4). Wing length of the female V. interjecta is 76 mm, larger than the female V.p.orientalisand V.p. aucupum from Senegal, Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Sudan in BMNH, FMNH, Paris and Stuttgart museums, more similar to female V. p. paradisaea from Ethiopia and Somalia in BMNH, FMNH, USNM and Frankfurt Museum, and smaller than female V. obtusa (Payne 1971; Table 1). The tail is 58 mm, graduated as in other paradise whydahs; the outer rectrices are 50 mm. The bill from head is 10.4 mm, the bill from nostril 8.0 mm, and the tarsus 15.2 mm. The bill and tarsi do not differ in size from other paradise whydahs measured for comparison. The plumage is similar to other paradise whydahs with a dark line behind the eye as in V. obtusa, V. p. aucupum and V. p. orientalis, and not extended into a ‘C’ pattern behind the ear as in V. p. paradisaea from east and southern Africa (Payne 1971). The edges of the dorsal feathers are greyish brown, not yellowish or buffy as in some female V. p. orientalis and V. p. aucupum in fresh plumage. The most distinctive feature of the fernale was the reddish colour of the legs and bill. No female V. p. orientalis or V. p. aucupum had a reddish bill; museum specimens with bill R. B. Payne 98 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) colour described on the label were “‘horn colour’’, ‘“‘dark brown’’, “brown, tip dark, base beneath whitish’’ and ‘“‘brown tip blackish base, IL[ower] m[andible] whitish’’. Female V. p. paradisaea have blackish bills (grey in the nonbreeding season) and brownish-grey tarsi, and female V. obtusa have a light grey bill and grey tarsi, where colours were noted at the time of collection (Payne 1971). No female specimens from this or more recent series in UMMZ show reddish at present. Two other female specimens are known from areas with male IV. interjecta and its foster species P. phoenicoptera. One was taken in an area where male V. interjecta in breeding plumage is known, and no other paradise whydahs, at Korhogo, Ivory Coast, on 22 February 1968 by J. M. Thiollay (Paris Museum 1969-250). A male V. interjecta in breed- ing plumage was collected 35 km E of Korhogo (LACM 71208) on 7 October 1968, by M. Ailanijan and F. S. Blanchard; the tail is broad to the tip and measures 290 mm, the nape is brownish orange (6C8) unlike V. togoensis, and the breast is paler than in V. p. aucupum. Wing length of the Korhogo female is 74 mm. Plumage is streaky brown above, similar to that of the UMMZ female. Bill colour, not noted on the label, was reddish horn (Methuen colour was not noted) when the Korhogo female was examined in 1985; the feet were pale. ‘The second field specimen of a female is Kobenhavn Museum 25.088, taken by H. Madsen on 24 April 1927 at Bamako, Mali. The only pytilia known in this area of Mali is P. phoenicoptera (Hall & Moreau 1970; RBP examination of specimens in museums), and the only male paradise whydahs in full breeding plumage (and not with growing central rectrices in sheath) from southwestern Mali are V. interjecta. These males, in the Paris Museum, have been called P. paradisaea aucupum (as cited in Hall & Moreau 1970, who accepted the identifications in correspondence). In fact they are V. interjecta in breeding plumage; the Bamako male (Paris 623,854) has a tail of 340 mm, 80 mm longer than the longest-tailed V. p. aucupum. Wing length of the Bamako female is 75 mm. The female has a streaky brown dorsal plumage similar to that of UMMZ 228,179. Bill colour was not noted by the collector, but when examined in 1990 it was pastel red (Methuen 7A4), the feet were pale (Methuen 6AB2, orange white to orange grey). The reddish bill colours of the Korhogo and Bamako females are consistent with the interpretation that UMMZ 228,179 is V. interjecta. Nonbreeding male V. interjecta A nonbreeding (testes 1 mm) male paradise whydah (UMMZ 217,399) was collected along a stream 8km NW of Zaria, Nigeria, at 11°10'N, 07°40’E, on 3 September 1968, at a site where V. interjecta in breeding plumage had displayed for at least two weeks. At that time the only paradise whydah species known at Zaria was V. interjecta, and the only pytilia was P. phoenicoptera (Fry 1966). P. melba was observed in the same locality in 1979 after further deterioration of habitat (Gartshore 1982). The Zaria male V. interjecta has a wing of 76mm, tail 58 mm and graduated with the outer rectrices 50 mm, bill 8.9 mm from head, 6.9 mm from nostril, and tarsus 15.6 mm. It weighed 20 g. The bill was orange- yellow with blackish culmen, the feet were fleshy grey, the iris was dark R. B. Payne 99 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) brown (Methuen colours were not noted). The skull was 75°% unpneuma- tized. As Chapin (1954) and Friedmann (1960) mentioned, viduines generally do not completely pneumatize the skull. In Vidua chalybeata, first-year males are less than 50% and older males more than 50% pneumatized (Payne 1973b), and my captive males and females have completely pneumatized skulls only after four years. The extent of unpneumatized dorsal area of the skull suggests that the Zaria male was a yearling. The orange bill is consistent with the reddish bill colour of the captive female and the two females taken in the field, and is unknown elsewhere in the paradise whydah species complex. Wing length 1s like that of male lV’. interjecta in breeding plumage; wing length overlaps among forms of paradise whydah within the range of V. interjecta (Table 1). In plumage the Zaria male has a whitish crown stripe bordered by black stripes, a white stripe above the eye, a light orange-grey face (5C2) witha black ‘C’ mark around the ear, and a worn breast lacking the brownish yellow of first-year male V’. p. paradisaea and V . obtusa in fresh plumage. The back is streaked with blackish central shaft and light brown edges (5D4- 5). It does not differ in pattern from nonbreeding males of other species of paradise whydahs. Juveniles The juvenile plumage of V. interjecta is unknown. A juvenile whydah (BMNH 1923.11.12.317) from Bandama in Ivory Coast may be this species or V. togoensis. The plumage is unstreaked light brown above (5D4) and with a greyish throat (5C3) and whitish belly. The wing is 76 mm, the tail 51 mm, and the tarsus 15.4 mm. The bill is 9.9 mm from head, 6.4mm from nostril, and pale with a blackish tip. Specimens of paradise whydahs from Ivory Coast are few; Thiollay (1985) did not distinguish among the species. Three male specimens in breeding plumage are known, from Korhogo 35 km E (LACM 71208), Marigot (LACM 46140) and Bandama (BMNH 1923.11.12.316). The first two are V. interjecta, the third is V. togoensis. Pytilia hypogrammica and P. phoenicoptera are widespread in Ivory Coast (Thiollay 1985) and P. melba is known for one locality (Holyoak & Seddon 1990), but only P. hypogrammica, the foster species of V. togoensis (Nicolai 1977), is known for Bandama (Bannerman 1923; specimens in BMNH and Paris Museum), suggesting that the juvenile is V. togoensis. It has a reddish base of the bill and a dark tip; the original colour was not noted on the label. The reddish bill and foot colours of female and bill of nonbreeding male V. interjecta may aid in identification. The characters of the females and first-year male described in the present report are consistent with recog- nizing V. interjecta as a species distinct from V. paradisaea and V. obtusa. It would be of interest to determine whether female V. togoensis are morphologically distinct from V. interjecta. Acknowledgements For allowing examination and lending specimens I thank the curators of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), British R. B. Payne 100 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) Museum (Natural History) (BMNH), Carnegie Museum, Field Museum of Natural History (FMNH), Los Angeles County Museum (LACM), Michigan State University, United States National Museum (USNM), Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology (Los Angeles), Mole National Park (Ghana), National Museum of Malawi (Blantyre), National Museum of Zambia (Livingstone), National Museum of Zimbabwe (Bulawayo), Museum of Comparative Zoology (Harvard), Royal Ontario Museum, Senckenberg Museum (Frankfurt), Berlin Museum (Universitat von Alexander Humboldt), Museum Alexander Koenig (Bonn), Staatliche Museum fur Naturkunde in Stuttgart (SMWNS), Zoologisk Museum (Keobenhavn), Naturhistorisches Museum Wien, Zoologisch Museum (Amsterdam), Koninklyk Museum voor Midden-Afrika (Tervuren), Koninkliyk Belgisch Instituut voor Natuurwetenschappen (Brussels) and Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (Paris). C. Konig (SMNS) provided photographs of the holotype of V. p. orientalis. Specimens in Sudan National Museum (Khartoum) were measured by S. M. Goodman. Field work was supported by the National Science Foundation and the National Geographic Society. For comments of the manuscript I thank R. E. Irwin. References: Bannermann, D. A. 1923. Report on the birds collected during the British Museum expedition to the Ivory Coast (French West Africa). [bis (11)5: 667—748. Bannerman, D. A. 1949. The Birds of Tropical West Africa. Vol. 7. Crown Agents, London. Carroll, R. W. 1988. Birds of the Central African Republic. Malimbus 10: 177-200. Chapin, J. P. 1929. Nomenclature and systematic position of the paradise whydahs. Awk 46: 474-484. Chapin, J. P. 1954. The Birds of the Belgian Congo. Part 4. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 75B. Crick, H. Q. P. & Marshall, P. J. 1981. The birds of Yankari Game Reserve, Nigeria: their abundance and seasonal occurrence. Malimbus 3: 103-114. Friedmann, H. 1960. The parasitic weaverbirds. Bull. U.S. Natl Mus. 223. Fry, C. H. 1966. The ecological distribution of birds in northern Guinea savanna, Nigeria. Proc. 2nd Pan-African Orn. Congr., Ostrich Suppl. 6: 335-356. Gartshore, M. E. 1982. Additions to local avifaunas: Zaria. Malimbus 4: 46-47. Guttinger, H. R. & Nicolai, J. 1975. Struktur und Funktion der Rufe bei Prachtfinken (Estrildidae). Z. Tierpsychol. 33: 319-335. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. Brit. Mus. (Nat. Hist.), London. Holyoak, D. 'T. & Seddon, M. B. 1990. Notes on some birds of the Ivory Coast. Malimbus 11: 146-148. Kornerup, A. & Wanscher, J. H. 1968. Methuen Handbook of Colour, 2nd edn. Methuen, London. Nicolai, J. 1964. Der Brutparasitismus der Viduinae als ethologisches Problem. Z. Tierpsychol. 21: 129-204. Nicolai, J. 1977. Der Rotmaskenastrild (Pytilia hypogrammica) als Wirt der Togo- Paradieswitwe (Steganura togoensis). J. Orn. 118: 175-188. Payne, R. B. 1971. Paradise whydahs Vidua paradisaea and V. obtusa of southern and eastern Africa, with notes on differentiation of the females. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 91: 66-76. Payne, R. B. 1973a. Vocal mimicry of the paradise whydahs (Vidua) and response of female whydahs to the songs of their hosts (Pytilia) and their mimics. Anim. Behav. 21: 762-771. Payne, R. B. 1973b. Behavior, mimetic songs and song dialects, and relationships of the parasitic indigobirds (Vzdua) of Africa. Orn. Monogr. no. 11. American Ornithologists’ Union. Payne, R. B. 1980. Behavior and songs in hybrid parasitic finches. Auk 97: 118-134. Payne, R. B. 1985. The species of parasitic finches in West Africa. Malimbus 7: 103-113. Payne, R. B. 1990. Song mimicry by the Village Indigobird (Vidua chalybeata) of the Red-billed Firefinch (Lagonosticta senegala). Vogelwarte 35: 321-328. Thiollay, J. M. 1985. The birds of Ivory Coast: status and distribution. Malimbus 7: 1-59. Address : Robert B. Payne, Museum of Zoology and Department of Biology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists Club 1991 P. A. Clancey 101 Bull. B.-O.C. 1991 111(2) On the generic status and geographical variation of the Namaqua Prinia by P. A. Clancey Received 15 November 1990 The so-called Namaqua Prinia (or Warbler) was introduced to science 1n 1842 under the binomen Drymoica substriata A. Smith, on the basis of specimens collected by the describer along the Olifants R. of the western Cape, and is currently generally treated as being a species of prinia. Interest in its taxonomic status has been aroused by its recent relegation to a newly proposed genus—Phragmacia Brooke & Dean (1990)—on being divorced from the genus Prinza Horsfield, 1821, the type-species of which is Prinia familiaris Horsfield of Java, Indonesia. Apart from being proposed in Drymoica Swainson, 1827 (type-species D. macroura (Latham) = Prinia maculosa (Boddaert)), and current placing in Prinia, the Namaqua Prinia has on occasion, following Sharpe (1883), been referred to a further Asiatic genus, Burnesia Jerdon (ex Blyth MS), 1863, the type of which is Prinia lepida Blyth, which=P. gracilis lepida of modern usage. Both Wolters (1980) and Traylor (1986) view substriata as a species of Prinia, sensu lato, as do Hall & Moreau (1970) and Clancey (1980). The characters advanced to justify the erection of the monotypic genus Phragmacia for substriata are that the three central pairs of rectrices are of closely comparable length, the tail profile thereby less strongly graduated than in most Prinia spp.; the entire tail of 10 quills is also plain, the feathers lacking the dark subterminal bar; and the rictal bristles are on the whole shorter. More significantly, the nest architecture of substriata differs markedly from that characterizing species of Prinia, this being fully detailed by Brooke & Dean. Briefly, the nest is a deep, open cup placed low down in screening riparian vegetation or among flood debris, and is not a woven oval of plant material with an upper lateral entrance as in typical Prinia spp. The ground-colour of the otherwise spotted eggs 1s also claimed as diagnostically significant in being a deep bright blue. Of some moment is that Brooke & Dean make no mention of the longer bill of substriata as a possible generic character, contra Hall & Moreau (1970), which these latter workers suggest reveals linkage between substriata and the spatially remote Prinia robertsi Benson of the frontier highlands between Zimbabwe and southern Mozambique, which, however, differs from substriata in having only 8 as opposed to 10 rectrices. While readily conceding that a valid prima facie case for the transfer of substriata from Prinia to Phragmacia has been made out, the species’ phylogenetic background and relationships with other closely allied Afrotropical Prinia spp. require to be evaluated and elucidated before its general adoption. Its generic relationship to the problematical P. robertsi must first be resolved, as well as to other species occurring further north in the continent seen as probably deriving from the same evolutionary radiation and inhabiting like arid country, such as P. somalica (Elliot). In P. A. Clancey 102 ; Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) so far as the present enquiry into the geographical variation of substriata is concerned, it is here treated without prejudice as a member of the genus Prinia. ‘The Namaqua Prinia is a denizen of thorn and riparian thickets, often with reeds, of both perennial and seasonally dry watercourses in the Karoo biome of the South West Arid Zone of the Afrotropics. It is dis- tributed from the valley of the Olifants R. in the western Cape Province and the lower Orange R. drainage in southern Great Namaqualand, Namibia, and the north-western Cape (Williams 1987), east to the Great Fish R., eastern Cape, toc. 26°E, and the western parts of the Orange Free State (to c. 28°S and 27°E) (Earle & Grobler 1987). The range is seem- ingly more continuous and extensive than indicated in the map in Hall & Moreau (1970). It is localized but not rare, occurring in pairs and small family parties after breeding within the limits imposed by its chosen habitat, and subsisting mainly on insects and on small fruits and seeds (Table 1 in Brooke & Dean). The sexes are closely similar, the female ranging smaller than the male, with a shorter tail. There is no assumption of a distinct nuptial mode of dress as in many Prinia spp., this in part a correlate of the open cup- shaped style of nest it constructs. A complete moult (contour plumage, wings and tail) is effected from April through to June, the species commencing to breed from the latter part of August to about January. The juvenile is seemingly undescribed, but one dated 13 November 1956, from Fraserburg—Beaufort West in the Karoo, resembles the adult but is lighter and buffer above, the white ventral surface with obsolete breast streaking, while the apices of the tail-feathers are dis- coloured and ochre tinged. The tail is shorter than in adults, measuring only 59mm. ‘The Namaqua Prinia is not well represented in museum collections, and the possibility of its showing any geographical variation has seem- ingly not been investigated hitherto. A recent study of such material as exists in southern African institutions has revealed that the species varies sufficiently in coloration as to be viewed as polytypic and its populations grouped into two formal subspecies. Variation of subspecific import affects the upper-parts, which vary from a warm fulvous brown in the singularly arid northwest of the range to a duller olivaceous wood brown in the south and east. Ventrally, there is appreciable variation in the whiteness of the fore-throat and breast and the buffiness of the flanks, crissal surfaces and under tail-coverts, but, strangely enough, there is no demonstrable difference in mensural characters throughout the entire range. The colour variation is closely correlated with the general colour of the substrate and rainfall levels, some populations occurring in country which may experience little or no rain some years (as in the northwest) to as much as 500 mm annually elsewhere. Two races may be recognized, as laid out hereunder: Prinia substriata substriata (Smith) Drymoica substriata A. Smith, Illustr. Zool. South Africa, Aves, 1842, pl. 72, fig. 1, and text: banks of the Olifants R. , western Cape Province, the type- locality restricted to Clanwilliam. P. A. Clancey 103 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Dorsal surface light Dresden Brown (Ridgway 1912), reddening slightly over the rump. Ventral ground-colour cold white, the breast narrowly streaked with greyish black; lower lateral body surfaces, flanks, crissum and under tail-coverts dull Tawny-Olive. Tail plain umber brown, lightening laterally. Measurements. Wings of 10 3g 52.5—57.5 (55.5), s.d. 1.79; culmens from skull 15-16 (15.2), s.d. 0.35; tarsi 20—21.5 (20.9), s.d. 0.69; tails 67— 75 (69.7), s.d. 2.26. Wings of 10 299 50-54 (52.2), s.d. 1.33; culmens 15-17 (15.5), s.d. 0.64; tarsi 19.5-22 (20.7), s.d. 0.75; tails 60—68.5 (64.7), s.d. 2.52 mm. Material examined. 37. Cape Province: near Liebendal (Olifants R.), Klaver, Vanrhynsdorp, Sutherland, Fraserburg, Beaufort West, Victoria West, Dwyka, Prieska, Murraysburg, Graaff-Reinet, Seekoegat (33°05/S, 22°30'E), Georgida (Willowmore), Traka, Oudtshoorn; O.F..S.: Glen, Oranjekrag, Allemansdrift. Rainfall generally 120-500 mm p.a. Range. Southern Little Namaqualand and the middle and lower Olifants R. drainage, western Cape, through the Karoo regions to reach the mid-Orange at Prieska, the Orange Free State south of 28° to 27°E, and in the Cape to the Great Fish R. valley at c. 26°E, and in the south to Oudtshoorn and further east to Willowmore. Sedentary. Remarks. Hall & Moreau (1970), in their Atlas of Speciation, show a major cluster of records of P. substriata for the northwestern Cape to the north of the Olifants R., most of which appear to be of wrongly deter- mined specimens of juvenile P. maculosa ina southern African collection. Prinia substriata confinis subsp. nov. Type. 3, adult. Vioolsdrif (formerly Goodhouse), lower Orange R., north-western Cape, at 28°53’S, 18°15’E. 16 August 1937. Collected on Barlow/Transvaal Museum Expedition. In the collection of the ‘Transvaal Museum, Pretoria, T.M.Reg. No. 21717. Description. Upper-parts more fulvous than in P. s. substriata, being a light ochreous Brussels Brown (August/September), versus greyish Dresden Brown at the same time. Ventrally warmer white, with finer greyish-black breast-streaking, and lower lateral and crissal surfaces and under tail-coverts pale Cinnamon-Buff as against dull Tawny-Olive. Similar in size. Measurements. Wings of 10 33 53-57 (55.1), s.d. 1.39; culmens 15—16.5 (15.6), s.d. 0.53 (n=8); tarsi 21-22 (21.4), s.d. 0.56 (n=8); tails 65-75 (69.7), s.d. 2.50. Wings of 4-99 51.5-54 (52.6); culmens 15.5; tarsi 20.5—21.5 (20.8); tails 62.5-67.5 (64.3) mm. Material examined. 16. Cape Province: Vioolsdrif (Goodhouse), Kenhardt, Upington. Rainfall from frequently nil to 120 mm p.a. Range. Arid lower reaches of the Orange R. from about its confluence with the Great Fish R. of Namibia and the Richtersveld, east to Bushmanland, the Kenhardt district and southern Gordonia at Upington to 22°E, east of which it intergrades with the nominate race (as at Prieska on the mid-Orange). Measurements of the type (mm). Wing (flattened) 55, culmen from skull 16.5, tarsus 22, tail 70. K. C. Parkes & E. C. Dickinson 104 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Etymology. Confinis—Latin, adjacent to. Remarks. Hoesch & Niethammer (1940) give the weights of 3 99 taken in January at Goodhouse by Niethammer as 9, 9.5 and 10.5 g. The colour variation here described in respect of the arid lower Orange R. population of P. substriata parallels closely that recently shown to be present in a second sympatric endemic warbler, namely, the Cinnamon- breasted Warbler Euryptila subcinnamomea (Smith), which likewise had not been previously closely studied (Clancey 1990). E. s. petrophila was, like P. s. confinis, proposed from the desertic lower Orange valley. Acknowledgements I am indebted to the Ornithologists of the East London Museum (C. J. Vernon) and of the ‘Transvaal Museum, Pretoria(Dr A. C. Kemp) for the loan of their holdings of P. substriata; also to the Directors of the South African Museum, Cape Town, and the National Museum, Bloemfontein, O.F.S. References: Brooke, R. K. & Dean, W. R. J. 1990. On the biology and taxonomic position of Drymoica substriata Smith, the so-called Namaqua Prinia. Ostrich 61: 50-55. Clancey, P. A. 1990. Variation in the Cinnamon-breasted Warbler of the South West Arid Zone of the Afrotropics. Bonn. Zool. Beitr. 41: 109-112. Clancey, P. A. (ed.) 1980. S.A.O.S. Checklist of Southern African Birds. Southern African Ornithological Society, Johannesburg. Earle, R. A. & Grobler, N. J. 1987. First Atlas of Bird Distribution in the Orange Free State. National Museum, Bloemfontein. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. British Museum (Nat. Hist.), London. Hoesch, W. & Niethammer, G. 1940. Die Vogelwelt Deutsch-Stidwestafrikas. J. Orn. 88, Sonderheft. Ridgway, R. 1912. Color Standards and Color Nomenclature.'Vhe Author, Washington, DC. Sharpe, R. B. 1883. Catalogue of Passerine or Perching Birds in the Collection of the British Museum. Vol 7. British Museum, London. Traylor, M.A., Jr. 1986. African Sylviidae in Peters’ Check-List of Birds of the World. Vol. 11. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Williams, A. J. 1987. Popular Checklist of the Birds of South West Africa| Namibia. Depart- ment of Agriculture and Nature Conservation, South West Africa, Windhoek. Wolters, H. E. 1980. Die Vogelarten der Erde. Lieferung 5. Paul Parey, Hamburg and Berlin. Address: Dr P. A. Clancey, Research Associate, Durban Natural Science Museum, P.O. Box 4085, Durban 4000, South Africa. © British Ornithologists Club 1991 ‘Types, type localities, and variation in some races of the Colasisi or Philippine Hanging Parrot Loriculus philippensis by Kenneth C. Parkes & Edward C. Dickinson Received 20 November 1990 The Colasisi or Philippine Hanging Parrot is a highly variable species, with 11 races recognized by duPont (1971). The nomenclature of the K.C. Parkes & E. C. Dickinson 105 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) populations of the Visayan islands in the central part of the archipelago and of the southern island of Mindanao is dependent upon the exact geographical origin of the various type specimens and 1s complicated by confusing early discussions and by hitherto uncorrected errors. These aspects of nomenclature will be reviewed, along with a discussion of the number of Visayan races that merit recognition. Variation within the species in certain other islands will also be mentioned. The Eastern and Central Visayas and their races The Visayas lie between Luzon and Mindoro to the north and Mindanao to the south. Samar and Leyte (and small satellite islands) form the Eastern Visayas; the Colasisi of these islands was named Loriculus [p.] worcester1 by Steere (1890). Specimens from Bohol, southwest of Leyte and politically part of the Central Visayas, have also been assigned to worcestert (Rand & Rabor 1960); this would be consistent with the avifaunal relationships in general for Bohol, which shares 19 subspecies with Samar and Leyte while having five endemic subspecies of its own (Parkes 1973). However, Parkes (unpublished notes) compared 9 adult male and 7 adult female Colasisis from Bohol with 2/2 from Samar and 4/4 from Leyte, and found what appear to be consistent characters differ- entiating the Bohol series. Comparison of Bohol specimens with a larger series from Samar may well justify naming the Bohol population as an additional subspecies. Steere (1890) gave Samar and Leyte as localities for worcesteri without specifying a holotype; his original series included birds from both islands. Warren (1966) stated that the British Museum (Natural History) holds 4 syntypes of worcester1, of which she selected for her type list (an action that she pointed out was not to be considered a lectotype designation) a male from Catbalogan, Samar, 8 April 1888 (inadvertently omitting its register number, 1896.6.6.1041). This was apparently in accordance with her policy, stated in her introduction, of selecting for listing out of a syntypical series “‘the one which has been regarded as the holotype, because of a manuscript indication or a subsequent publication’’. She mentioned the fact that Hachisuka (1934) had listed the Catbalogan specimen as “‘the type’’, and the information provided to Parkes (1973) indicated that the BM(NH) staff also considered this specimen to be “‘the type’. Although Hachisuka did not use the word ‘“‘lectotype’’ for BM(NH) 1896.6.6.1041, his designation appears to be valid under Article 74 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. This would be important if the populations of Samar and Leyte had differentiated subspecifically, but as Parkes (1973) pointed out, there is no consistent difference between Loriculus specimens from these two islands. The small island of Siquijor is politically part of the Western Visayas, but as the southeasternmost island of this group it is actually as close to the Central Visayas. The endemic race L. p. siquijorensis Steere is well- marked and not controversial, but is thought to be extinct (Rand & Rabor 1960). The same is true of the endemic race chrysonotus Sclater of the Central Visayan island of Cebu. K.C. Parkes & E. C. Dickinson 106 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) The Western Visayas and their races The Western Visayas include the main islands of Panay, Negros and Guimaras, plus the more northerly Romblon Group (Romblon, Sibuyan and Tablas) and Masbate. The current treatment of the Colasisis of these islands (duPont 1971, Forshaw 1989) assigns the populations of the Romblon Group to L. p. bournsti McGregor, 1905; Masbate, Panay and ‘Ticao (a small island north of Masbate) to L. p. panayensis Tweeddale, 1877; and Guimaras and Negros to L. p. regulus Souance, 1856. Nomen- clatural (as opposed to taxonomic) complications are centred on the names regulus and panayensis, plus occipitalis Finsch, 1874. Loriculus panayensis Tweeddale versus L. regulus Souance ‘Tweeddale (1877a) gave Ilo Ilo, the main trading port of Panay, as the type locality of his panayensis, and he has been followed in this by all subsequent authors. ‘Tweeddale’s own publication, however, shows that this is incorrect. He quoted an extract from a notebook kept by J. Murray aboard H.M.S. Challenger as follows: ‘“‘Ship arrived in Ilo Ilo on the 28th [October 1874], at 5 p.m. On the 30th the following birds were shot. ‘These are all from the island opposite the town.”’ ‘T'weeddale then listed 12 species, one of which is Loriculus panayensis, which he formally described two pages later. ‘“The island opposite the town”’ of Ilo Ilo is Guimaras. The correct citation of the type locality of panayensis 'Tweeddale should therefore be “““Tlo Ilo’ =Guimaras”’. Delacour & Mayr (1946), duPont (1971) and other authors have assigned the Guimaras population to L. p. regulus of Negros. If this were correct, then panayensis would become a synonym of regulus, and another name would have to be found for the birds of Panay, Masbate, and 'Ticao—assuming that those of Panay and Guimaras do indeed belong to separate subspecies. This question will be addressed later. Coryllis occipitalis Finsch versus Loriculus regulus Souance The history of the name occipitalis (which was omitted from the synonymies of McGregor 1909, Hachisuka 1934, and duPont 1971) and that of regulus Souance, 1856, are intertwined and convoluted. The supposed type specimen of regulus, BM(NH) 1859.11.22.33, was a male of unknown locality. Another specimen in the BM(NH) (1842.2.15.90), collected by Cuming and labelled ‘‘Mindanao’’, was at first thought by Finsch (1868) to belong to Souance’s “‘species’’ regulus. Sclater (1872), after having examined aseries of Loriculus in Dr A. B. Meyer’s collection, found that specimens from Negros and Panay best fitted the description of regulus, and he applied the name to the populations of those islands. Later, Finsch (1874) examined a pair of Negros specimens and agreed that these were true regulus, and that the BM(NH) ‘“‘Mindanao”’ specimen (1842.2.15.90) represented an undescribed form, which he named Coryllis occipitalis. Thus far regulus had been attributed to Negros and Panay. Inferential restriction to Negros was effected by T'weeddale (1877a) through his description of panayensis (which, as we have seen, was actually from K.C. Parkes & E. C. Dickinson 107 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) Guimaras), comparing it to “‘regulus, ex Negros’’. Later Hachisuka (1934) formally designated Negros as the type locality of regulus, stating that the ‘““type specimen’ was in the British Museum. Unfortunately Tweeddale, in describing panayensis, had before him (as is evident from his descrip- tion) an immature male and a juvenile female, so his supposed diagnostic characters are invalid. In the same paper in which he described occipitalis, Finsch (1874) noted a BM(NH) specimen that, like his type of occipitalis, had been labelled as “‘regulus’’. Salvadori (1891, p. 523) stated that this specimen was “‘the type, or a typical specimen, of L. regulus, Souancé, of the Massena Collection, received through the dealer Parzudaky of Paris.” However Salvadori erred in listing this specimen on the next page (524) as ‘“‘one of the types of C. occipitalis, Finsch”’ (this error later being repeated by Warren 1966). Finsch was of the opinion that this specimen (BM(NH) 1859.11.22.33) was different from both regulus and occipitalis, and was near chrysonotus Sclater from Cebu. Salvadori (1891), however, demon- strated that this specimen, obtained from the Massena collection, was in fact the holotype of regulus. He went farther and synonymized occipitalis (as represented by the Cuming holotype) with chrysonotus, but without overtly stating that the Cuming locality ‘“‘Mindanao’’ attached to that specimen was erroneous; Cuming’s localities are known to be untrust- worthy (Parkes 1961). Dickinson examined this specimen in June 1990, and agrees that it is referable to chrysonotus, thus verifying its provenance as Cebu rather than Mindanao and confirming the status of occipitalis as a synonym of chrysonotus. What is the true range of Loriculus philippensis regulus Souance? Having now determined that Negros is the terra typica of regulus, the question arises as to the full range of this subspecies. As mentioned earlier, duPont (1971) included only the populations of Negros and Guimaras in regulus, those of Romblon, Sibuyan and Tablas in bournsi (type locality Sibuyan), and those of ‘Masbate, Panay and Ticao in panayensis. We have already seen that the type locality of panayensis 1s actually Guimaras, not Panay, meaning that if the birds of Guimaras are separable from those of Masbate, Panay and Ticao, a new name would have to be found for the latter. Parkes examined a series of Colasisis representing the combined resources of CM, AMNH, USNM, DMNH, MMNH and FMNH, six of the most important American collections of Philippine birds. Many of the series consisted primarily of immature birds, useless for comparisons of colour markings. The total number of adults seen was as follows: Negros, 36; Guimaras, 3; Romblon, 1; Sibuyan, 15; Tablas, 10; Masbate, 12; Panay, 2; Ticao, 2. Although the material from some of the islands was undesirably limited, it quickly became evident that the subspecies characterizations relative to the crown and hind neck colours given by duPont (1971) would not hold good. The amount of red and yellow on the crown and nape is highly individually variable in adults from these islands. It became clear that the name regulus (with panayensis as a synonym) can be used for the birds of all of the central and western Visayas north and west of Cebu, except Sibuyan, where the name bournsi K.C. Parkes & E. C. Dickinson 108 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) will continue to apply. Although Sibuyan lies close to Romblon and ‘Tablas (and somewhat farther from Masbate and Panay), the good series from Sibuyan clearly demonstrates the distinctiveness of bournsz. In that subspecies, the yellow colour of the crown in adult males is always less than in any specimens of the combined regulus series. Furthermore, in none of the adult females of bournsi is there any yellow adjoining the red crown patch. This is variable in regulus, but even in those females that lack a distinct yellow extension to the red crown patch, the posteriormost row of red feathers is tinged with yellow; in Sibuyan birds the red comes to a sharp border with the green of the back. There is also a slight but perceptible difference in the general dorsal colour, with bournsi the darkest, least yellowish green when compared with all others of this group. The correct name for the Colasisis of Mindanao In 1868 Finsch had named Coryllis hartlaubi from Mindanao (this name was erroneously attributed to Tweeddale 1877b by McGregor 1909; duPont 1971 correctly attributed it to Finsch but with a citation to ‘Tweeddale’s 1877b paper). Finsch’s action in providing this name is difficult to explain, as he had available the material in the BM(NH), which included the type specimen of apicalis Souance, 1856, from Mindanao, entered in the BM(NH) register in 1859. Finsch was apparently ready to believe that more than one species of Loriculus could be found on Mindanao, as in 1868 he listed birds from this island under both regulus and hartlaubi. In his 1874 paper, having determined that the BM(NH) ‘“‘ryegulus’’? specimen alleged to be from Mindanao was not that form, he named that specimen “‘occipitalis’”’ without mentioning his own hartlaubi, also attributed to Mindanao! Warren (1966) considered BM(NH) 1842.2.15.34 to be a syntype rather than the holotype of Coryllis hartlaubi Finsch. It is true that Finsch listed two additional specimens under this name, but it is reasonably clear from his wording that he was basing his new species on the first specimen on his list; ‘—"weeddale (1877b) was of the same opinion, and indeed might be said to have inferentially designated BM(NH) 1842.2.15.34 as a lectotype. This specimen, listed as ‘‘f. Ad. sk.’’ by Salvadori (1891), is an adult female according to Warren (1966). As it was, like BM(NH) 1859.11.22.33, a Cuming specimen attributed to ‘‘Mindanao’’, one might conjecture that it was collected with that specimen on Cebu and was thus actually an example of the Cebu subspecies currently called chrysonotus Sclater, 1872. In that case the name hartlaubi Finsch, 1868 would replace chrysonotus for the Cebu population. Three points militate against that interpretation. The two specimens were catalogued at the BM(NH) 17 years apart, making it at least unlikely that Cuming had collected them together. Sharpe (quoted by T'weeddale 1877b) compared a genuine Mindanao specimen with the Cuming type and found them to agree. And, finally, Finsch specifically noted that hartlaubi lacked an orange spot on the nape, a character that is typical of chrysonotus in spite of Finsch’s later (1874) statement to the contrary (see colour plate on p. 347 of Forshaw 1989). K. C. Parkes & E. C. Dickinson 109 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) Salvadori (1891) erred in listing specimen a of Loriculus apicalis (BM[NH] 1859.11.22.35), the “‘type” (=syntype fide Warren 1966) of that ‘‘species’’, as also being “‘one of the types of C. hartlaubi, Finsch.”’ That specimen was obtained by the BM(NH) from the Massena collec- tion, whereas all three of the specimens mentioned by Finsch in his description of hartlaubi were obtained from Cuming. There seems to be no reason to alter the current treatment of hartlaubi as a junior synonym of apicalis Souance, 1856, the correct name for the Colasisis of Mindanao. Acknowledgements and museum acronyms We are grateful to the authorities of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), Bell Museum of Natural History, University of Minnesota (MMNH), Delaware Museum of Natural History (DMNH), Field Museum of Natural History (FMNH) and United States National Museum of Natural History (USNM) for allowing Parkes to examine, and in some instances borrow, specimens to supplement those in the Carnegie Museum of Natural History (CM). Dickinson received important help toward this study from Graham Cowles, Derek Read and Michael Walters at the British Museum (Natural History), Tring (BM[NH)). Summary Several nomenclatural and taxonomic questions relative to the populations of the Colasisi Loriculus philippensis of the central Philippines are resolved. The name worcesteri Steere applies to those of Samar and Leyte; those of Bohol are somewhat differentiated and possibly separable. By the valid designation of Hachisuka (1934), BM(NH) 1896.6.6.104 from Samar is the lectotype of worcester1. The type locality of panayensis Tweeddale is Guimaras rather than Ilo Ilo, Panay. BM(NH) 1859.11.22.33, from an unknown locality, is the holotype, not a syntype, of regulus Souancé, and Hachisuka (1934) validly restricted the type locality of regulus to Negros. Contrary to previous authors, BM(NH) 1842.2.15.90 is the holotype, not a syntype of occzpitalis Finsch, and is not a syntype of regulus. Although allegedly from Mindanao, it matches chrysonotus Sclater from Cebu, of which occipitalis is thus a synonym. The range of regulus is redefined, and includes Guimaras, Masbate, Negros, Panay, Romblon, Tablas and Ticao; panayensis Tweeddale is a synonym. The subspecies bournsi McGregor is valid, but is confined to Sibuyan. The correct name for the Colasisis of Mindanao is apicalis Souancé, with hartlaubi Finsch as a synonym. References: Delacour, J. & Mayr, E. 1946. Birds of the Philippines. Macmillan, New York. duPont, J. 1971. Philippine Birds. Delaware Museum of Natural History, Greenville. Finsch, O. 1868. Die Papageien. Vol. 2. E. J. Brill, Leiden. Finsch, O. 1874. On Coryllis regulus and C. occipitalis, an apparently new species. [bis(3)4: 206-208. Forshaw, J. M. 1989. Parrots of the World, 3rd ed. Lansdowne Editions, Melbourne. Hachisuka, M. 1934. The Birds of the Philippine Islands, part 3. Witherby, London. McGregor, R. C. 1909. A Manual of Philippine Birds, part 1. Bureau of Science, Manila. Parkes, K. C. 1961. The Crested Lizard Hawk (Aviceda jerdoni) in the Philippines. Postilla 51: 1-9. Parkes, K. C. 1973. Annotated list of the birds of Leyte Island, Philippines. Nemouria 11: 1-73. Rand, A. L. & Rabor, D. S. 1960. Birds of the Philippine Islands: Siquijor, Mount Malindang, Bohol, and Samar. Fieldiana Zool. 35: 221-441. Salvadori, T. 1891. Catalogue of the Psittaci, or Parrots, in the Collection of the British Museum. British Museum (Natural History), London. Sclater, P. L. 1872. On a new parakeet of the genus Loriculus from the Philippine Islands. Tbis(3)2: 323-325. Steere, J. B. 1890. A List of the Birds and Mammals Collected by the Steere Expedition to the Philippines. Privately printed, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Books Received 110 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(2) ‘Tweeddale, Marquis of 1877a. Reports on the collections of birds made during the voyage of H.M.S. Challenger—No. II. On the birds of the Philippine Islands. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1877: 535-551. ‘Tweeddale, Marquis of 1877b. Contributions to the ornithology of the Philippines.—No. III. On the collection made by Mr A. H. Everett in the island of Mindanao. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1877: 816-834. Warren, R. L. M. 1966. Type-specimens of Birds in the British Museum (Natural History ). Vol. 1, Non-Passerines. British Museum (Natural History), London. Addresses: Kenneth C. Parkes, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, U.S.A. Edward C. Dickinson, Norman Chapel, Aston Magna, Glos. GL56 9QN, U.K. © British Ornithologists Club 1991 BOOKS RECEIVED Sibley, C. G. & Ahlquist, J. E. 1991. Phylogeny and Classification of Birds: a Study in Molecular Evolution. Pp. xxili+976. Yale University Press. ISBN 0-300-04085-7 (alk. paper). £60. 26 x 18.5 cm. Sibley, C. G. & Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1991. Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World. Pp. xxiv+1111. Yale University Press. ISBN 0-300-04969-2. £75. 28.5 x 22 cm. Since 1980 Sibley and Ahlquist have published a series of papers on the classification of various groups of birds based on DNA-DNA hybridization, a method which produces a quantitative measurement of the proportion of genetic material common to any two taxa that one may wish to compare, at any level from the subspecies to the order or above. The method is technically sophisticated, and has led to some controversy of a highly technical nature; the 31 papers (a few of them with additional co-authors) are scattered through many different journals and books. The result has been a revolutionary classification of birds, but it has been hard for ornithologists who are not active in this field of research to get an overall view, and to know what has been established with a fair degree of certainty, and what is still controversial. The great biological, evolutionary interest of the subject hardly needs stress- ing. Few would disagree that, in animals at least, classification should reflect phylogeny. In Sibley’s words, “‘there is but one true phylogeny’’, and he gives strong reasons for thinking that DNA-DNA hybridization has revealed it much more accurately than any other method hitherto available. (Though the authorship is joint, the text is by Sibley, Ahlquist being responsible for the laboratory work and much of the data analysis.) The first of these two massive volumes is a thorough, extremely clearly written, synthesis of all the DNA-DNA hybridization work. It is also much more than that, and to appreciate its scope a summary of the contents is necessary. The book is divided into two main parts. Part I begins with 8 chapters dealing with DNA and the history of our present state of understanding of its structure and function as the genetic material in all higher animals and plants. Then follows a short chapter reviewing comparative DNA studies carried out to date on all groups of organisms, from viruses to vertebrates. Chapters 10 and 11 describe the laboratory methods used by the authors in their own work, and their methods of analysis (highly technical, but important for anyone working in this field). Chapters 12 and 13 deal with the tempo of molecular evolution and the demographic factors that affect it, including a discussion of the evidence that, in birds, the tempo is related to generation time, which itself is related to the age of first breeding. This is important in interpreting the DNA results. From their earlier studies, Sibley had concluded that the rate of molecular evolution was practically constant in all birds, but these had concentrated on passerines, nearly all of which breed when one year old; later analyses of non-passerines, in which maturity may be delayed for several years, gave evidence of slower rates (just as, in a more extreme case, rates are much slower in elephants than in Drosophila). Chapter 14 (62 pages) is an extremely useful historical survey of previous classifications of birds, from Linnaeus onwards, with special attention to the great 19th century anatomists (Huxley, Sundevall, Garrod, Furbringer, Gadow and others), whose morphological researches, especially Gadow’s, still provide the basis for the generally accepted current classification enshrined in such works as Peters’ Check-list. A main purpose of this chapter is Books Received 111 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) to show that it has not proved possible to work out the phylogeny of birds from comparative anatomy; even the most thorough studies have been unable to avoid the pitfalls set by convergent and parallel evolution. In spite of this— and not surprisingly, as stability is a great convenience — the current classification is deeply entrenched, and, to quote, “‘the power of tradition is so strong that proposals for changes in the classification of birds have little prospect of acceptance unless accompanied by overwhelming evidence that they represent a closer approach to a ‘natural’ classification. ‘To provide the sense of confidence that is required to surmount the hurdles of tradition and usage it is necessary to present new, convincing data and also to show that the evidence used by Gadow was not beyond question.” Chapter 15, on the principles and methods of classification, is of key importance. It sets out Sibley’s reasons for basing his classification solely on the DNA-DNA hybridization results; in other words, for adopting a cladistic, or phylogenetic, classification, and not one that takes into account degree of morphological divergence. Here Sibley may speak for himself: ‘“The adherents of the traditional, or so-called evolutionary, school accept the view expressed by Darwin ... and advocate an eclectic selection of evidence as the basis for a classification that will express both the phylogeny (clades) and the degree of morphological specialization of lineages (grades). .. . There is, of course, a relationship between phenotype and genotype, but morphological characters evolve at many different rates and the relation- ship between morphology and phylogeny is neither simple nor direct. ‘To the human eye closely related taxa may look so different that they are judged to merit recognition as members of different higher categories, and distantly related but convergently similar species may be thought to be close relatives. With this method art replaces science and the subjective evaluations of the taxonomist are the only criteria for the erection of categories and their arrangement in a classification. Intuition is not a substitute for measurement, and the failures of the eclectic school litter the historical landscape of avian systematics.” Chapter 16, entitled “Classification of birds based on DNA-DNA hybridization”’ (its substance was first published in Auk 105 (1988): 409-423), is quite short. After some explanatory statements it tabulates the Sibley and Ahlquist classification of Recent birds down to the level of the tribe. One of the major innovations in this classification is the number of taxonomic categories used. The phylogeny contains so many dichotomies (branching points of lineages) that the conventional hierarchy of order, suborder, family, subfamily etc. does not provide enough information. To deal better with this situation— though not ideally, for an impossibly large number of categories would be needed if a classification were to reflect the phylogeny perfectly—a number of new categories are used at the class and ordinal levels, based on the prefixes super-, sub-, infra- and parv-; thus ordinal categories are superorder, order, suborder, infraorder and parvorder. (It is a pity that the inelegant term ‘parvclass’, resulting from this system, could not have been avoided.) The other major innovations are in the details of the classification itself, though ‘detail’ may seem an inappropriate word for such changes as: treating the auks as a subfamily of the Laridae, the New World vultures as a subfamily of the Ciconiidae, the orioles and cuckoo-shrikes as together constituting a tribe within the subfamily Corvinae of the family Corvidae, the mockingbirds as a tribe within the family Sturnidae, or the New World icterids as a tribe within the Emberizidae. Even more surprisingly, ‘“‘the DNA data indicate that the Piciformes are the descendants of what may be one of the oldest lineages in the avian tree and that they are far from the passerine stem’’. They are placed near the beginning of the classification, immediately after the Anseriformes and Turniciformes (the latter still of uncertain affinities). Other such examples could be given; but one should also stress that much of the classification is in good agreement with classifications based on comparative morphology, and some major changes make excellent sense from a zoogeograhical view- point. Thus many of the diverse endemic passerines of Australia, which on the basis of morphology have been linked with Old World groups which they most closely resemble, are now convincingly shown to be part of a major monophyletic adaptive radiation within Australia. Part II of the book (428 pages) deals in detail with each group of birds. It also includes very useful historical notes on previous classifications, like those in chapter 14 but at lower taxonomic levels. The immense amount of information presented here cannot be summar- ized in any meaningful way. The following extracts, discussing the DNA evidence for the Sylviidae, will give an idea of the treatment (A[delta value] is the measure of genetic distance between taxa, and hence an indication of the length of time since their lineages branched). “The DNA data show that the family Sylviidae is not closely related to the Muscicapidae, but that these two families belong to lineages that diverged at A11.7, probably ca. 20— 30 MYA [million years ago]. The branch between the Sylvioidea and the Muscicapoidea is Books Received 112 ; Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(2) actually older than that between the Sylvioidea and Passeroidea. .. . The results of these and subsequent comparisons indicate that Chamaea is a babbler and that its lineage branched from the sylviines and timaliines at A7.2. In Fig. 381 the Chamaea branch is actually 7.2 from the sylviines and 7.5 from the timaliines. These differences may not reflect the exact branching sequence among these three taxa, but it seems likely that the Wrentit diverged from its Asian relatives about 15-20 MYA... . Our data for the species of Sylvia are incom- plete and the delta values between some of the species are large enough to suggest splitting the genus. At this time we conclude only that Sylvia is most closely related to the babblers, and that Parisoma is a synonym of Sylvia.” The final chapter is a short but important one of only 7 pages, on ‘‘Historical geography: patterns of distribution in space and time’’. It deals with the major geological events which offer the best means of calibrating the ‘avian DNA clock’. Chief among these is the opening up of the Atlantic Ocean, leading to the splitting of South America from Africa some 80 MYA. Almost certainly, it was then that the lineages leading to the present-day ostriches and rheas split, and this is taken as the basis for calibrating the delta values between ratite taxa with absolute age. Other geological events affording a means of calibration include those leading to the formation of Australia and New Guinea, and those affecting the land-bridges between Eurasia and North America and between North and South America. Datings based on these events are in many cases tentative, but there are no major inconsistencies that would throw doubt on the general validity of the method. There is no doubt that the results of DNA-DNA hybridization have led to very many improvements in the classification of birds which will be incorporated in future works of reference. There are two reasons why its adoption in toto is less certain, at any rate in the near future, and why there is bound to be controversy. One is that many ornithologists will be reluctant to jettison the traditional classification, even though it is known to be less than perfect, so long as there is any suspicion that the DNA method may, perhaps only in some cases and for reasons not yet apparent, have given a wrong answer. The second is that, even if the phylogeny based on the DNA method is accepted as substantially correct, many sys- tematists will be reluctant to accept Sibley’s strict cladism, that taxonomic categories should be based solely on date of branching, ignoring degree of morphological divergence. Though scientifically less defensible than cladism, the traditional school of thought does embody a ‘common sense’ element. Does classification no longer have any descriptive function? The disagreement between the cladists and traditional systematists seems bound to continue for some time. Sibley and Monroe’s Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World is quite different in scope and intention. Using the classification derived from the DNA work, but with only a single paragraph devoted to it, it sets out in summary form the names (scientific and English), habitats and ranges of the world’s birds (the ranges in sufficient detail for rough mapping), with brief taxonomic and such other information as is necessary in cases where species limits are uncertain or problematical. The result is the most complete and useful annotated list of birds of the world available, fully referenced and indexed. Nine thousand six hundred and seventy-two species are recognized, and a new numbering system for species introduced. The authors have given considerable attention to English names. They use some that many will find unacceptable, e.g. Bearded Parrotbill for Panurus biarmicus, but they also give alternatives to their own preferences and, as they state in the introduction, do not expect their selection to be final. The amount of work embodied in these two books is awesome. The first will be an essential tool and work of reference, and a stimulus, to avian systematists for years to come; the second will be an essential reference, working tool and quarry combined, for all orni- thologists concerned with the lower taxonomic levels—species and superspecies—and their distributions. Together they constitute the most important publication on the classification of birds to have appeared in recent decades. Erratum. In Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110(4), p. 173 (last paragraph), the second sentence should read: “In comparison with S. maxillosus, the males [not females] of the new subspecies have shorter wings and tails, while the females [not males] have larger bills’. In Table 1 (p. 174), the correct values for the t-test, parkes: x maxillosus, reading from top to bottomare)*<0/05,,NeS8 0/05, NSSiINisee = 0105. NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS Papers, from Club Members or non-members, should be sent to the new Editor to be nominated at the AGM, Dr D. W. Snow, Old Forge, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 4PD, U.K., and must be offered solely to the Bulletin. They should be typed on one side of the paper, with treble-spacing and a wide margin, and submitted in duplicate. The style and lay-out should conform with usage in this or recent issues of the Bulletin. Informants of unpublished observations should be cited by initials and name only, e.g. “‘... of grass (C. Dieter)’, but ‘““P. Wee informs me that ...’’. A limited number of photographic illustrations in black- and-white may be published annually at the Editor’s discretion. Authors are requested to give their title, initials, name and full address at the end of the paper. An author wishing to introduce a new name or describe a new form should append nom., gen., sp. or subsp. nov., as appropriate, and set out the sup- porting evidence under the headings “‘Description’’, “‘Distribution’’, ““Type’’, ““Measurements of type” and “‘Material examined’’, plus any others needed. A contributor is entitled to 10 free offprints of the pages of the Bulletin in which his contribution, if one page or more in length, appears. Additional offprints or offprints of contributions of less than one page may be ordered when the manuscript is submitted and will be charged for. Authors may be charged for proof corrections for which they are responsible. BACK NUMBERS OF THE BULLETIN Available on application to the Hon. 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Changes of address and any correspondence concerning membership should be addressed to the Hon. Treasurer. SUBSCRIPTION TO THE BULLETIN The Bulletin (Vol. 111 onwards) may be purchased by non-members on pay- ment of the annual subscription (£16.00 or, if preferred, U.S. $35.00 for 1991, postage and index free). Applications should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer. Single issues may be obtained as back numbers. PAYMENTS TO HON. TREASURER All payments should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer, S. J. Farnsworth, Hammerkop, Frogmill, Hurley, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 5NL, U.K. All pay- ments are net and should be made in Sterling if possible. Payments in other currencies must include a further £3 for Bank Charges (except for annual rates in U.S. Dollars which are inclusive). Payments may be made direct to the Club’s National Giro Account No. 30 924 4005, but must include Bank Charges where applicable. CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence about Club Meetings and on all other matters should go to the Hon. Secretary, Mrs A. M. Moore, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6JB, U.K. CONTENTS CLUBNOTICES Meetings). 252. oe SO fe 57 CHAPPUIS, C. & ERARD,C. A new cisticola from west-central Africa. 59 THIBAULT, J.-C. & VARNEY, A. Breeding seabirds of Rapa (Polynesia): numbers and changes during the 20th century.............. 70 BEAVERS, R. A., DELANEY, D. J., LEAHY, C. W. & OATMAN, F.G. New and noteworthy bird records from Petén, Guatemala, including wikal:National.Park,:..\.bef oktogie aarcalel abies atree ee eee dd, PARKER, III, T. A.& ROCHAO.,O0. Notes onthe status and behaviour of the Rusty-necked Piculet Picumnus fuscus.................. 91 SERVAT, G. & PEARSON, D. L. Natural history notes and records for seven poorly known bird species from Amazonian Peru...... pp PAYNE, R. B. Female and first-year male plumages of paradise whydahs:Viduaanterjectass ives ihe ee ee 95 CLANCEY, P. A. On the generic status and geographical variation of the Namaqua.Pranta vcs 26 doer rune ie crore eee 101 PARKES, K. C. & DICKINSON, E.C. ‘Types, type localities, and variation in some races of the Colasisi or Philippine Hanging Parrot Loriculus philippensts x sor oss aie. ped ae oe eee ee 104 BOOKS'REGEIVED ¥4.:(2 3) Ay hue Pe OTE ae ick ee cc Re eee ee 110 ERRATUM sm) Spee ees diy dans spe htnaurdne Vow hestiaare dibs LOM ARR ieee LR 112 The Bulletin is despatched from the printers on publication and is sent by Surface Saver Postal Services to all European destinations outside the U.K. and by Air Saver Postal Services to destinations outside Europe. Those whose subscriptions have not been received by the beginning of a month of publication will have their copies despatched by surface mail, after their current subscription has been paid. COMMITTEE R. E. F. Peal (Chairman) (1989) D. Griffin (Vice-Chairman) (1990) Dr D. W. Snow (1990) S. J. Farnsworth (Hon. Treasurer) (1990) Mrs A. M. Moore (Hon. Secretary) (1989) Revd. T. W. Gladwin (1990) R. H. Kettle (1988) Dr A. Tye (1990) Cdr M. B. Casement, OBE, RN (1990) UK Data Protection Act. In order to keep records up to date and to facilitate despatch of the Bulletin names and addresses of Members and Subscribers, and no other information, are held on computer disc. If there is any objection to this please advise the Hon. Secretary in writing so that records can be deleted from the disc and stored manually. Published by the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB and printed by Henry Ling Ltd., at the Dorset Press, Dorchester, Dorset vii ISSN 0007-1595 ape? Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’ Club Edited by Dr D. W. SNOW Volume111 No.3 September 1991 FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Tuesday, 22 October 1991. Dr R. A. Cheke will speak on “‘Birds of Togo”. Dr Cheke works on tropical pests at the Natural Resources Insti- tute of the Overseas Development Agency. He has studied birds in Africa for nearly 25 years, first visiting Togo in 1979. He returned there annually until 1990 to work on the biology and control of vectors of onchocerciasis. Those wishing to attend should notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, & October 1991*. Tuesday, 26 November 1991. The Chairman, Mr R. E. F. Peal, will speak on “‘Birds of N.W. Morocco’’. Ronald Peal has been a mem- ber of the Club since 1963 and became a member of the Committee in 1969. He held the post of Honorary Secretary from 1971 until 1989 when he was elected Chairman. It will be remembered that he published a survey of Wryneck in Britain in 1968. He has had close connection with the area of N.W. Morocco extending over 25 years. Those wishing to attend should notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 12 November 1991*. Tuesday, 21 January 1992. The Honorary Secretary, Mrs A. M. Moore, will speak on “Ornithology in the Search for the Course of the Niger’’. Tuesday, 18 February 1992. Dr David Harper, of Sussex Univer- sity, will speak on ‘‘Why is Robin behaviour so variable?”’. Tuesday, 7 April 1992. Dr Carlo Violani of the Universita di Parvia, Milan, will speak on the 18th century Italian naturalist Giovanni Antonio Scopoli and his influence on Italian ornithology. Meetings are held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 at 6.15 pm. for 7 pm. A plan showing Imperial College will be sent to members on request. *Late acceptances and cancellations can usually be taken up to the Thursday morning preceding a meeting, although members are asked to accept by 14 days beforehand as arrangements for meetings have to be confirmed with Imperial College well in advance. If you accept and subsequently find you are unable to attend please notify the Hon. Secretary, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 67B (tel. 0572 722788) as soon as possible as the booking can often be offered to another member. 113 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Bulletin of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol.111 No. 3 Published: 20 September 1991 The eight hundred and ninth meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday, 9 April 1991 in the Ante-Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington, London at 6.15 p.m., 34 Members and 12 guests attended. Members attending were: R. E. F. PEaL (Chairman), Professor C. H. Fry (Speaker), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, K. F. BETTON, P. J. BULL, Cdr M. B. CASEMENT, RN Retd, Dr R. A. Cuexe, I. D. CoLiins, Dr H. Q. P. Crick, M. J. Earp, J. H. Etcoop, S. J. FARNSWORTH, G. D. FIELD, C. HELM, P. Hoce, R. H. KeTttie, Rev. G. K. McCuttocu, Dr J. F. Monk, Mrs A. M. Moore, Dr G. Moret, Dr M-Y. Moret, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. MULLER, P. J. OLIVER, J. G. PARKER, R. C. Price, A. J. RANDALL, Dr R. SELF, P. J. SELLAR, R. E. SHARLAND, N. H. F. STone, A. R. TANNER, Dr A. TYE. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Mrs J. BuLL, Mrs F. FARNSwortnu, Miss R. Harris, Miss K. Horr, Mrs I. McCuttocn, Mrs E. N. Mapsen, J. J. Mapsen, Mrs D. C. Monk, P. J. Moore, Mrs H. Price, Mrs H. Tye. After supper Professor C. Hilary Fry, who was making a short visit to the UK from Oman, spoke on Alcedinidae. He gave a comprehensive, illustrated, review of the 87 species of the three sub-families of kingfishers. He demonstrated the extraordinary distribution and range of the species from the most primitive to the most highly evolved and specialised. His happy facility for sharing his detailed knowledge with his audience was much appreciated. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Annual General Meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club was held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 on Tuesday, 21 May 1991 at 6.10 p.m. 16 Members were present. The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 29 May 1990, which had been published (Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 113-114), were approved and were signed by the Chairman. The Report of the Committee for 1990 was presented. It was proposed by the Honorary Secretary, seconded by the Honorary Treasurer, that the Report be amended as follows: page 2, lines 11 and 12, the first sentence to be amended to read: ‘Bulletin sales. Non-member sub- scribers to the Bulletin in 1990 were 156 (23 U.K., 133 Overseas)’. The Chairman said that the number of non-member subscribers showed a welcome increase in 1990. The amendment was carried unanimously and on the proposal of Dr Monk, seconded by Mr J. G. Parker, the amended Report was adopted unanimously. The Editor reported that there had been a smooth hand-over of the editorship from Dr Monk. A satisfactory number of manuscripts were coming in and he hoped that it might be possible in the future to increase the number of pages. He did not propose to make any radical changes in the Bulletin. He said he had received several complimentary messages about the Bulletin. Meetings 114 ! Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) The Chairman congratulated Dr Monk for the excellent way he had edited the Bulletin for the past 15 years, which was itself a record number of years for the office to be held by one Editor. He went on to say how fortunate it was for the Club to have such an eminent new Editor in Dr David Snow. The Secretary said that in addition to the nominations proposed by the Committee she had received a letter of resignation as Committee Member from Dr A. Tye (who had taken up a post overseas) and he had proposed Dr R. A. Cheke as Committee Member for the vacancy thus created. The nomination had been seconded by J. H. Elgood and had been properly received in accordance with Rule 5. No other nominations had been received. The following were then declared duly elected, or re-elected as stated:— Hon. Secretary: Mrs A. M. Moore (re-elected) Hon. Treasurer: S.J. Farnsworth (re-elected) Committee : Dr J. F. Monk and Dr R. A. Cheke (elected vice Mr R. H. Kettle who retired by rotation and was ineligible for re-election, and Dr A. Tye who had resigned). No other business had been notified in accordance with Rule 12. On the proposal of Mr N. H. F. Stone, seconded by Mr I. Collins, it was unanimously agreed to adjourn the Meeting until 5.45 p.m. on ‘Tuesday, 9 July 1991 at the same place for the presentation and accep- tance of the Accounts for 1990. ‘The meeting was declared closed for the day. The Annual General Meeting, adjourned from 21 May 1991, was resumed at 5.45 p.m. on Tuesday, 9 July 1991 at the same place. Nine members were present. The Accounts for 1990 were presented. The Chairman said that thanks were due to the anonymous donor who paid the cost of the Conversazione held by the Club at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand on Wednesday, 5 December 1990, during the XX Congressus Internationalis Ornithologicus. It was unanimously agreed that the Accounts for 1990 should be received and adopted. ‘The Meeting closed at 6.05 p.m. Following the Annual General Meeting the eight hundred and tenth meeting of the Club was also held at Imperial College, in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, on Tuesday, 21 May 1991 at 6.15 p.m. 27 Members and 14 guests attended. Members attending were: R. E. F. Peat (Chairman), Colonel J. VINCENT (Life Member), Dr D. H. THomas (Speaker), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, Major N. A. G. H. BEAL, P. J. BELMAN, D. R. CALDER, Cdr M. B. CASEMENT, RN Retd, Dr R. A. CHEKE, I. D. COLLINS, S. J. FARNsworTH, D. GriFFIN, C. HELM, R. H. KetTie, Rev. G. K. McCuttocn, Dr J. F. Monk, Mrs A. M. Moores, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mu_Lter, J. G. Parker, Dr R. SELF, P. J. SELLaR, Dr D. W. SNow, S. A. H. StatHam, N. H. F. Stone, A. R. TANNER. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Cdr M. K. Barrit RN, D. Brooks, Mrs W. Brooks, Mrs F. FARNSWORTH, R. GILLMOR, MrsS. GriFFIN, Ms K. Horr, Mrs N. LIDDELL, Mrs I. McCuttocu, Mrs D. Monk, P. J. Moore, Mrs E. PEAL, R. RANFT. Meetings 115 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) The meeting was particularly glad to welcome one of the Club’s Life Members who was making a visit to Britain, Colonel Jack Vincent M.B.E., who has been a member of the Club since 1934. After supper the Chairman made a presentation of a painting of Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopica by Robert Gillmor to Dr James Monk, who had recently retired from the honor- ary office of Editor of the Bulletin. He paid tribute to Dr Monk’s record number of years in office during which time the Bulletin had maintained its very high standard. This, he said, had been demonstrated at the exhibition during the recent I.O.C. in New Zealand, where the Bulletin was especially commended to the congress by the ICZN. The Chairman made his Annual Address to the Club. He spoke on the life of the Club’s benefactor, Herbert Stevens. The address will be printed in the December issue. Dr D. H. Thomas then spoke on the problems of salt excretion by sea-birds under pelagic conditions. His address, on an important topic of which most of his audience were quite ignorant, was heard with great interest. The eight hundred and eleventh meeting of the Club was held at the same place on Tuesday, 9 July 1991 at 6.15 p.m. 30 Members and 18 guests attended. Members attending were: D. GRIFFIN (Chairman of the Meeting), R. E. Scott (Speaker), Miss H. Baker, B. H. Beck, K. P. BEtToN, Mrs D. M. BRADLEY, Cdr M. B. CasEMENT, RN Retd, Dr R. A. CHEKE, B. COLEMAN, S. J. FARNSWORTH, G. D. FIELD, Rev. T. W. GLapwIn, DrJ.J.D.GrEENWoop, A. Grpss, Ms R. M. Jones, R. H. Kettve, Rev. G. K. McCuLLocu, DrJ.A. Met_prum, Mrs A. M. Moore, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. MUuL ter, P. J. OLiver, J. G. Parker, A. J. RANDALL, Dr R. SELF, P. J. SELLAR, R. E. SHARLAND, N. H. F. STONE, C. E. WHEELER. Guests attending were: Mrs G. BonHam, M. BonHam, Miss A. Cert, Mrs F. FARNSWORTH, Dr R. FULLER, Mrs B. Gisss, Mrs J. M. GLapwin, Miss K. GREENWOOD, Mrs S. GRIFFIN, Miss K. Horr, Mrs I. McCuttocu, P. J. Moore, C. A. MuLLER, Mrs M. OLiver, T. W. PARMENTER, N. Peace, R. RANFT, Mrs A. Scott. Mr Robert Scott gave the address on birds in Bulgaria. He described the country and the reserves which have been created there, and illustrated his description with slides. His account of one of the less well known countries of Europe was most interesting and was well received. Accounts 116 British Ornithologists’ Club Income and Expenditure Accounts for the year ended 31 December 1990 INCOME Subscriptions received MembersiSubscriptionsi. sitet cetera aise etalere sielelecscss oe Subscriberset.3-. 2 foe cletebei Saetae s e aee Chie eee See Teete ee Donations)|received | )/25. £5. Ge hee SO Sa eee Investments income Stevens! Bequest:Frind is $220. hyo plead dat ce fogs are eae (ojsiaebeiet= ele oe he Depositiinteresty<:sssc ioe ttedntictes: cere PERT ae noes ee Barringtonmbrusthund(s. cas. beter erate in eerie acs Chanity;Account Interest) 5,4 5 s0 sey eect ih rote asinhctetskehe enepete ss Rent received Property| Clovelly. diringiteyeiust erento ye itke( aoe rerelevert tees eeansetel ate [LEER COS Ciro Based coho Goon e GOR Teo OBER CT Ecotec e Legal fees arising in 1989 and 1990 reiplanning permission wee eat elses eeeil= tens ere Income Tax recovered Deedsiof, Covemant’s’.\..25-(2F2 apse sek cere eke da he nel ORES lane ates (OLS AOS SG Ae AS HO RAO TS Soe CA OME Ee otek tate ee yn Sn S AVG iaeegerels Nate ace ates ell str en See Benes oes eM hay rapa a eee np E Cost of Sales Openingistockay ey Leb ss ya eae, tle ee RO TS. oe, aa Glosingistock Ma ways aise ee Lek Ua Te en Ue chee maa Meetings— Incomes rier icpecpten rel iene eh tees pee eae ee eee EE =“ FX PENGMUTE soo. sis ances steTal er ctere ete re ccberer ete deen eyevetare EXPENDITURE Printingiand PublicationioftyBulletiny oie te erasers a eae sia Separatesiy svat ives tey nee actatetorereretreee cunts re fate edhe eeehavar ts Wess—Sales ofiseparates ett. 2.2) tale cts tie niet ceera ieee revere ste reretereyee ——Pageichanpesiae\iscriel basco eerive aie pean eerie Meola Editonialiandisecretarialen > mts se eine Bee eee nee Printingilabelst vce cesses ects oe ic ccte te teee sie eevee did evel reve casteyatees Postage ofdBulleturtn a ett ee eR EL eeo Publication and Distribution costs ‘oficurrentissueiof Bulletin cf) eee ete ee eee Cost of projection equipment restated .......-..--.-.--+-.++---- ed eh {Teo rc aS as Ge Ho MINE Ono cae ro rials Men ala Heys picata dickd Printing; postage and'stationeny 20. sone hee clea otra MeElephoned ype sere eh at ete re islet eater Re Es ota ore Tae Insurancedsercae ul Bolg) Byer ese ie eS «Seo er Seems Sine INoticesofimeetin gs spay. 12) ethers) bop oot yk EE ed ee oe PNCCOUN LAN CVs steectegsyeey hay th yietrel oso! oust slene eichelae tebe creress tue sce aS IMiscellaneousiexpensesi sae eae cee es ne hn eee ee Eee Bank: charges wie chee tech si eae eter ee hats a EA eee Excess of Income over Expenditure/(Excess of Expenditure over Income) 1990 2,340 (263) (2,143) 3,653 (4,038) Bull, B.O.C. 1991 111(3) £ 5,814 (66) 289 881 99 (385) 12,332 (13,052) (720) 204 5,471 281 4,592 2,562 256 262 (10,049) 3,345 Accounts 117 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) British Ornithologists’ Club Balance Sheet as at 31 December 1990 1990 £ £ General Fund Ralance'at 1 Januaryyl 990222075 2). 2s 3. hat ae pate hte Hee 32,923 Add: Excess of income over expenditure ............-.....--- (720) Balanceat:3 lu Decembers1 990. ~ x. Wate hep schaicy-soie telat =e edehons 32,203 Trust Fund—F. J. Barrington Balance’ atiaanuary) 1990-5. s. <<< oc--s Moe vege pete pe oe 577 Add: Profit on sale of 55% ‘Treasury Stock 4-6-8 ots eee — Balance at 31 December 1990 577 Stevens Bequest Fund Balance atlejanuaryt990 << 6-8 fo c5 oor aay cre eans > cies epee 60,568 Less: Loss on sale of 103° Exchequer Stock .............-.--- oe Add: Increase for property valuation ..............--..-..--- 32,000 Balance'at3 December 1990 t 62.2). 2 Sn fok festa 6 sot ene choles croteiotovenene 92,568 125,348 Barrington Trust Fund investment Charity Fund 111.57 COIF Income shares ..:.....-....-.--.- 577 Rrecholdipropertyir $7-c20 yes eee dee se a eee 90,000 90,577 Current assets SOC PATH recan e SeeR COUA REE > BEES MESO ABAGBEG 100 (OES) it) s EG (nop ee AS CaGE OB ORBE ne SODROREE REALS | otis é 41 G@ashiat Bank——Barclays Prime, 27. ss 2 te cig eect ee ne tee ei 3,810 ——Mloyds Current ceo cciete iene nce cna 59 —Lloyds High Interest .--........-.-.--.-+----. 3,914 ——host Office: Giro. 4s ef coors so-> Pe Piette cis eirvey 114 ——Charities DEpOsiteer. cc eee tae ee een tere 33,484 Sundry Webtors e425 Syed: eae Hes Sess eee aes cep eae 15 Projections quipmentes 4. acters << ei ei te oe Se elo 100 41,637 Current liabilities Subscriptions received in advance ——WIeEMDEIS 4p ays safe. = eek eto ete ee 15172: —=SUDSCHIDETS) He os Sete ss ee eae se EEE Oe 899 rin drys Creditorses sets 3:00 tXe sha) tenant easier wets ie 4,395 6,866 34,771 125,348 NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 1. he rent of Clovelly has been fixed by the Rent Officer at £2,340 p.a. until 1992. 32,923 577 60,568 94,068 577 58,000 58,577 35,491 94,068 2. At31 December 1990, the Freehold property was revalued at £90,000 by I. E. Howard FRICS, and accepted by the officers who consider market value to be materially equal to the book value shown above. This revalued amount relates to the freehold interest in the entire property free of any encumbrance, the existing tenancy to be terminated by agreement between the two parties and without making any allowance for possible development value. If the freehold property shown at valuation had been shown at cost the amount at 31 December 1990 would have been £58,000. 3. Stock revalued to represent more realistic net realisable value based on the year’s sales. 4. Most of the projection equipment cost has been written off in the income and expenditure account against 1989 and 1990 profits and therefore shown in the balance sheet at a net book value of £100. Report of the Accountants to the members of British Ornithologists’ Club We confirm that, in accordance with your instructions, we have audited the financial statements of the club in accordance with approved auditing standards. We further confirm that the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the staternent of recommended practice on charities. BINGHAM, CONYERS & CO., Chartered Accountants 10 Horn Lane, Acton, London W3 6QT Approved by the Committee on 9 July 1991 R. E. F. PEAL, Chairman 14 July 1991 C. T. Collins et al. 118 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Natal pterylosis of Premnoplex brunnescens, Thripadectes virgaticeps and Synallaxis candet (Furnariidae) by Charles T. Collins, Manuel Marin A. & Miguel Lentino R. Although the natal pterylosis of some Neotropical passerine birds has been given increased attention, the information available on the suboscine birds is limited to several tyrant flycatchers (Tyrannidae) (Collins & McDaniel 1989) and Manacus manacus (Pipridae) (Collins 1982). Quanti- fied information is currently lacking for the large and diverse family of ovenbirds (Furnariidae). This paper, part of a continuing analysis of the natal pterylosis of Neotropical passerines (Collins 1973, 1982, Collins & Bender 1977, Collins & McDaniel 1989) presents data on 3 furnariids:— the Spotted Barbtail Premnoplex (Margarornis) brunnescens, Streak- capped Treerunner Thripadectes virgaticeps, and White-whiskered Spinetail Synallaxis (Poecilurus) candet. A single specimen (Stage A—see Wetherbee 1957: 356) of Thripadectes virgaticeps was collected (M.M.) at Las Palmeras, near Chiriboga, Pichincha Prov., Ecuador on 13 June 1989. Las Palmeras is about 35 km west of Quito at an elevation of 1900 m. A single specimen (late Stage A) of Premnoplex brunnescens was collected (M.M.) at the same locality on 21 June 1989. A single specimen (early Stage A) of Synallaxis candei was collected by M. Lentino and C. Bosque at Medanos de Coro, 3 km north of Coro City, Venezuela, at an elevation of 20 mon 17 December 1984. All specimens were examined under a binocular dissecting microscope and the number and distribution of natal downs (neossoptiles) recorded (Table 1). The terminology for neossoptile tracts and regions within tracts follows Wetherbee (1957). All 3 species had only a moderate to light covering of neossoptiles: 121 downs in 10 tracts in Premnoplex, 123 downs in 13 tracts in Thripadectes, and 131 downs in 10 tracts in Synallaxis. Neossoptile colour was dark grey in Premnoplex and dark tipped but paler grey basally in Thripadectes. In the first 2 above mentioned species, flight feather and upper rectrix covert neossoptiles were only about 1 mm long and the single crural tract down only 3 mm; in Synallaxis, rectrix downs were similarly about 1 mm long while those of the secondaries and abdo- minal tract were 7 and 3 mm respectively. The neossoptiles on all other tracts were substantially longer and longest on the spinal region of the dorsal tract where they reached a length of 15 mm. The total number of neossoptiles reported here for these 3 furnariids is substantially lower than that reported for an array of open-cup nesting species of tyrannids (Collins & McDaniel 1989, Collins unpubl.). This reduced number of neossoptiles has been similarly noted for a number of species which build enclosed or cavity nests (Collins 1973, Collins & McDaniel 1989). The nest of Premnoplex is a mossy ball wedged in crevices under low logs above streams or on banks or rock faces, while Thripadectes nests at the end of a burrow in a forested bank. The nest of C. T. Collins et al. 119 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) TABLE 1 Distribution of neossoptiles in 3 ovenbirds Premnoplex Thripadectes Synallaxis Tract or region brunnescens __virgaticeps candei Coronal Tithe 6/9 10/9 Ocular 2/2 4/4 3/2 Occipital 4/3 3/3 4/6 Spinal 5/8 7/8 7/13 Pelvic** 0 7 8 Scapular 12/8 10/9 9/9 Femoral 3/5 5/4 11/9 Abdominal 0/0 0/0 5/6 Crural 0/0 1/0 0/0 Rectrices 5/5 5/5 5/5 Upper Rectrix Covert 0/0 1/1 0/0 Primaries 10/10 10/10 0/0 Secondaries 4/3 1/0 5/5 Greater Secondary Coverts 9/9 3/7 0/0 Total 121 123 131 *Number of neossoptiles on right/left side. **Unpaired tract on midline; all others paired. Synallaxis is a bulky structure composed chiefly of dry spinescent or thorny twigs and sticks (Bosque & Lentino 1987). The absence of quanti- fied information on the abundance of neossoptiles in other species of ovenbirds does not at this time permit trying to reveal a relationship between natal pterylosis and nest type as has recently been done for the Tyrannidae (Collins & McDaniel 1989). The distribution of neossoptiles in the ocular tract is unusual in that they are confined to the extreme posterior end and give the appearance of belonging to a possibly unique short row of 2-4 downs almost perpen- dicular to the posterior end of the coronal row. However, comparison with the more extensive capital tract downs found in Sayornis flycatchers (Collins & Keane, in prep.) confirms that it is more appropriate to con- sider them orbital downs. It will be of interest to see if this pattern occurs in other species in this diverse family. However, as previously noted (Collins 1990), the possibility of making more detailed interspecific or intraspecific comparisons and correlations with aspects of nesting ecology is greatly hampered by the scarcity of specimens for study. Acknowledgements Carlos Bosque, Juan Manuel Carrion, P. Beals, R. Corado, M. Holmgren and K. Molina provided valuable help in the field. Dr Sergio Figueroa of the Ministerio of Agricultura y Ganaderia kindly assisted in obtaining permits to conduct research and collect in Ecuador, and Ing. Miguel Moreno, Director of the Museo Ecuatoriano de Ciencias Naturales, pro- vided valuable cooperation. M. Marin’s field work in Ecuador was supported by the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology. References: Bosque, C. & Lentino, M. 1987. The nest, eggs and young of the White-whiskered Spine- tail, Synallaxis (= Poecilurus) candei (Aves: Furnartidae). Wilson Bull. 99: 104-106. T. A. Parker et al. 120 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) Collins, C. 'T. 1973. The natal pterylosis of the Swallow-tanager. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 93: 155-157. — 1982. The natal pterylosis of Manacus manacus (Pipridae). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 102: 37-39. —— 1990. Intraspecific variation in the natal pterylosis of the Ochre-bellied Flycatcher (Tyrannidae). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 143-145. — & Bender, K. E. 1977. Cervical neossoptiles in a Neotropical passerine. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 97: 133-135. — & McDaniel, K. M. 1989. The natal pterylosis of closed-nest building tyrant flycatchers (Aves: Tyrannidae). Bull. So. Calif. Acad. Sci. 88: 122-130. Wetherbee, D. K. 1957. Natal plumages and downy pteryloses of passerine birds of North America. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 113: 339-436. Address: Dr C. 'T. Collins and M. Marin A., Department of Biology, California State University, Long Beach, California 90840, U.S.A. M. Lentino R., Sociedad Audubon de Venezuela, Aptdo. 80450, Caracas 1080, Venezuela. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991. Records of new and unusual birds from northern Bolivia by Theodore A. Parker, III, Abel Castillo U., Murray Gell-Mann & Omar Rocha O. Received 11 October 1990 Recent fieldwork by the authors in northern and central Bolivia has yielded numerous noteworthy distributional records of birds, including 14 species not previously reported from the country (Sterna paradisaea, Nannopsittaca sp. nov., Lurocalis semitorquatus, Eubucco tucinkae, Auto- molus dorsalis, Xenops miller1, Frederickena unduligera, Conopophaga peruviana, Oxyruncus cristatus, Mionectes olivaceus, Phylloscartes sp. nov., Cyphorhinus thoracicus, Conothraupis speculigera and Psarocolius osery1), and numerous species until now known in the country from only one or a few localities. Much of the information included in this paper results from avifaunal surveys undertaken to determine the biological importance of little- known regions not previously visited by biologists. This work was jointly carried out by personnel of the Museo de Historia Natural (La Paz), Instituto de Ecologia (La Paz), and the Rapid Assessment Program of Conservation International (Washington, DC). Critical logistical sup- port was provided by Hermes Justiniano, Director of Fundacion Amigos de la Naturaleza (Santa Cruz). Also included are some observations made by Parker and colleagues during visits to the Rio Heath, along the Bolivia— Peru border, in August 1988, and to the Serrania de Huanchaca of eastern Santa Cruz in August 1989; that work was supported by the Louisiana State Museum of Natural Science (LSUMNS). Specimens were de- posited in the Museo de Historia Natural La Paz (MHNLP), and sound recordings are housed in the Library of Natural Sounds, Cornell Univer- sity, Ithaca, New York (LNS). Plant identifications were provided by T. A. Parker et al. 121 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Robin Foster (Field Museum of Natural History), Alwyn Gentry (Missouri Botanical Garden), and Stefan Beck (Herbario Nacional, raiPaz)? The majority of records included herein were obtained at seven localities. (1) Dpto. La Paz: lower Rio Heath, from Puerto Pardo upriver c. 50 km. Parker (and P. Marra, D. Ricalde, K. Rosenberg, C. Walton and W. Wust) surveyed birds of riverine and high-ground forests 10-19 August 1988. (2) Dpto. La Paz: Alto Madidi (13°40'S,69°00'W), a logging camp on the south bank of the Rio Madidi opposite the mouth of the Rio Enatagua, c. 100 km NW of Ixiamas. A variety of tall evergreen forest types along a transect c. 5 km x 200 m was surveyed by Parker and Castillo 15 May-—1 June 1990; 403 species of birds were found, including 60 species not previously reported from the department. (3) Dpto. La Paz: Ixiamas (13°40'S,68°10’W), a small town at the western edge of an extensive savannah bordered by more extensive forests, 100km NW of Rurrenebaque. Parker and Castillo surveyed grasslands 0.5 km north and 0.5—7.0 km E of the town 1-3 June 1990. (4) Dpto. La Paz: Calabatea (14°45'S,68°33’W), a road construction camp c. 35 km SW of Apolo along a new road to La Paz. From 7 to 12 June 1990 Parker surveyed birds in pristine lower montane forests at 1300 to 1600 m. (Note: this is not the Calabatea of Carriker (Bond & Meyer de Schauensee 1942.) (5) Dpto. Beni: Estacion Biologica del Beni (14°38'S,66°18’W), 50 km E of San Borja. Includes records obtained by Rocha during extensive fieldwork in 1988-1989, and by Parker and Gell-Mann 17-18 June 1989. (6) Dpto. Beni: Serrania Pilon (14°50'S,67°20’W), c. 40 km W of San Borja. From 13 to 16 June 1990, Parker, Gell-Mann and Spencer Beebe surveyed lower montane forests on both slopes of Serrania Pilon, 600— 1000 m. (7) Dpto. Beni: Versalles (13°00'S,62°50’W), a small village (pop. 130) on the Bolivian side of the Rio Itenez/Guapore. Riverine and high- ground forests were inventoried 16—17 June 1990 by Parker, Rocha and Hermes Justiniano. Species accounts VARIEGATED TINAMOU Crypturellus variegatus One calling (LNS) at dusk on 28 May 1990 in upland forest at Alto Madidi represents the second record for Bolivia, and the southernmost anywhere for the species. The exceptional diversity of tinamous (9 forest species) at this locality underscores the biological importance of the region. BRAZILIAN TINAMOU Crypturellus strigilosus Although there are few published records of this species in Bolivia (Remsen & Traylor 1989), it is apparently widespread and locally com- mon in the eastern third of the country. In August 1990 Parker and Rocha heard (LNS) several each day in stunted, vine-rich forests along the upper Rio Negro at Perseverancia, Dpto. Santa Cruz, and also heard one T. A. Parker et al. 122 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) on 20 August in similar forest west of Versalles, Dpto. Beni (the first departmental record). The species was recently found to be common in forests along the western edge of the Serrania de Huanchaca, Dpto. Santa Cruz (Bates et al., in press). LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE Cathartes burrovianus ‘This species is common and widespread in the savannahs of northern and central Bolivia. Up to 30 were noted each day in open grasslands at Ixiamas, Dpto. La Paz, and even larger numbers were seen daily in the San Borja, Dpto. Beni, area in June 1989 (e.g., 28 were counted on con- secutive fenceposts in seasonally inundated grassland 27 km E of San Borja, and 46 were seen in the air at once a few km farther west). On 25 June 1990 we counted a minimum of 200 individuals within 30 km of San Borja. Many were gathered on the ground or fenceposts near small, rap- idly shrinking ponds filled with fish (Hoplias sp.). We have observed equally large numbers from a small plane during overflights of pristine savannahs along the Rio Negro in southern Dpto. Beni, and over similar areas along the Rio Grande in the northwesternmost portion of Dpto. Santa Cruz. In all of these regions, C. burrovianus outnumbers C. aura in grassland. Surprisingly, the first Bolivian records of C. burrovianus were reported only within the last 10 years (Remsen & Ridgely 1980, Schmitt & Schmitt 1987). TINY HAWK Accipiter superciliosus One perched tamely in canopy at the edge of tall foothill forest at 650 m on the lower east slope of Serrania Pilon apparently represents the first record for Dpto. Beni, and one of only a few for the country (Remsen & Traylor 1989). The small size, whitish, lightly barred underparts, yellow- ish cere and orbital flesh, and yellowish legs distinguish this little-known species from similar raptors. SOLITARY EAGLE Harpyhaliaetus solitarius ‘Two adults circling low over mossy, ridgetop forest at c. 1050m on Serrania Pilon represent a first record for Dpto. Beni, and one of the few for the entire country (Remsen & Traylor 1989). BLACKISH RAIL Rallus nigricans In late May 1990, Parker heard the unmistakable calls of a pair of this species several times at Alto Madidi, where at least one pair inhabited a 1 ha marshy area of tall grasses (Paspalum sp.) in several cm of water. This is only the second record of R. nigricans for Bolivia, the first being a sighting from Dpto. Pando (Parker & Remsen 1987). Vocalizations heard at Alto Madidi included a series of strident wheee notes, probably given by the male, and a low, almost inaudible bubububu series given simultaneously by the other (female?) individual. GREY-BREASTED CRAKE Laterallus exilis Although reported for the first time in Bolivia only recently (Schulen- berg & Remsen 1982), this inconspicuous species is apparently common and widespread in lowland northern and central Bolivia. At least 3 pairs were calling (LNS) in thick grasses at the edge of a flooded depression T. A. Parker etal. 123 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) bordered by an expansive grassland c. 27 km E of San Borja, Dpto. Beni, on 24 June 1989, and 2 pairs called from tall grass along the airstrip at Rurrenebaque, Dpto. Beni, on 21 May 1990. The species was common (LNS) at Alto Madidi and Ixiamas, in dry and flooded areas of tall grasses (Paspalum spp.) along the edge of the airstrips, and in small marshy places; at least 12 pairs were located at Alto Madidi, and 2-3 pairs were heard at Ixiamas. Rufous-sided Crakes Laterallus melanophaius were heard in the same small marshes at Alto Madidi. On 17 August 1990, Parker and Rocha heard the distintive calls (tink- tink-tink) of at least 2 L. exilis in floating mats of Paspalum along the Rio Negro at Perseverancia, Dpto. Santa Cruz; these are the first records for the department and southernmost for the country. RUSSET-CROWNED CRAKE Laterallus viridis A male and a female (AMNH 791736, 791737) collected by J. Cuello along the Rio Mamoré at Guayaramerin, Dpto. Beni, on 2 May 1965 represent the first documented Bolivian record (A. Capparella, zm ltt.). Remsen & Traylor (1989) considered Niethammer’s (1953) sight record from Dpto. La Paz to be hypothetical. OCELLATED CRAKE Micropygia schomburgku This little-known rail is apparently numerous and widespread in a variety of grassland habitats in Bolivia, although until now it was known in the country from only one specimen collected at San Joaquin, Dpto. Beni (Blake 1977). We here report additional records from Dptos. Beni, La Paz, and Santa Cruz. This species was fairly common in June 1989 in open Trachypogon grassland almost devoid of bushes, in three areas c. 15-30 km E of San Borja, Dpto. Beni. At least 8 sang (LNS) sporadically from dawn until 08.30, in an area of c.400 x 200m dense grassland averaging 1m in height, c. 25 km E of San Borja. The ground was muddy, indicating that the habitat may be flooded during wetter months. Six individuals were heard (LNS) in c. 500 m? of drier, upland grassland dotted with small shrubs (Melastomataceae, Asteraceae) c.28km E of San Borja, and 4 were heard at dusk in similar habitat c. 5 km N of San Borja along the road to Reyes. From 1 to 3 June 1990, several M. schomburgkii were heard (LNS) each morning in seasonally flooded grasslands with scattered trees at Ixiamas. In August-September 1990, the species was fairly common in dense, dry campo grasslands (campo sujo and campo limpo; see Eiten 1978 for habitat descriptions) at 650-750m on the Serrania de Huanchaca plateau; as many as 4 territorial pairs were counter-calling at once at dawn and dusk within c. 500 m? of open grassland (LNS); the seemingly small territories of these birds (less than 0.5 ha?) appeared to be centred on clumps of shrubby vegetation and tall grasses around termite mounds. Calling birds could not be lured more than a few metres from such cover. The species disappeared from this area after a fire (on 1 October) de- stroyed much of the vegetation (J. Bates, pers. comm.). On 21 August 1990, Parker heard M. schomburgkii in similar campo limpo habitat on Cerro San Simon, in eastern Dpto. Beni (Parker & Rocha, in press). In summary, Micropygia schomburgkii is apparently widespread and numerous in the grasslands of northern and central Bolivia. It occurs in T. A. Parker et al. 124 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) both well-drained and seasonally flooded areas, and nearly pure, open grasslands (campo limpo) as well as those with an abundance of shrubs and small trees (campo sujo). ARCTIC TERN Sterna paradisaea On 22 May 1990, Parker and Hermes Justiniano found an adult- plumaged Arctic Tern at Laguna Santa Rosa, along the lower Rio Tuiche, Dpto. La Paz. The bird was observed for more than 30 minutes as it flew back and forth 6—12 m above the water, and poor but identifiable photo- graphs (LSUMZ) were taken by Justiniano. This extraordinary record is the first for Bolivia, and may be the first for the interior of South America. BLUE-HEADED MACAW Ara couloni The first Bolivian records were reported by Parker & Remsen (1987). On 21 June 1989 one pair was seen at a distance and several others were heard 2—8 km N of Rurrenabaque, just north of the Rio Beni, in Dpto. La Paz. These records indicate that A. couloni ranges as far south in the Bolivian foothills as 14°30'S, and it probably occurs, at least occasionally, in Dpto. Beni. Its occurrence in lowland southeastern Peru is erratic (pers. obs.), so we were not surprised when we did not record the species during two weeks of fieldwork at Alto Madidi. CRIMSON-BELLIED PARAKEET Pyrrhura rhodogaster Five feeding on Cecropia catkins in high-ground forest c. 2 km W of Versalles on 20 August 1990, anda previously unpublished male (AMNH 791770) collected there on 21 July 1964 by J. Cuello (A. Capparella, in litt.), represent the first records for Dpto. Beni. First reported from for- ests bordering the Serrania de Huanchaca, Dpto. Santa Cruz (Bates et al. 1989), Parker and Rocha also saw several flocks (5—12 individuals) of P. rhodogaster in Ficus-dominated forests at Perseverancia, along the Rio Negro, Dpto. Santa Cruz, c.150km W of Huanchaca. The species probably occurs widely in eastern Bolivia east of the Rio Mamore. Nannopsittaca sp. nov. This small, inconspicuous parrot was recently discovered in Peru (O’Neill et al. 1991); it will probably be found to occur throughout much of southwestern Amazonia. The first Bolivian records are as follows: 3+ in river-edge trees (including small Calocophyllum spruceanum and Cecropia membranacea) along the lower Rio Heath, Dpto. La Paz, on 16 August 1988, and two flocks (4,5+ individuals) in river-edge forest at Alto Madidi by Parker and Castillo on 24 and 28 May 1990 (tape- recordings/ILLNS). Parker has observed small groups feeding on a variety of small fruits and seeds, including those of an arboreal, epiphytic cactus (Rhipsalis sp.?; Cactaceae), Cecropia catkins (Moraceae), and seeds of a Vernonia sp. (Compositae). SCARLET-SHOULDERED PARROTLET Touit huetii A vocal flock of 8 in rapid flight high over forest along the lower Rio Heath on 11 August 1988, c. 15 km upriver from Puerto Pardo, Dpto. La Paz, represents the second Bolivian record (LNS). This species is almost surely nomadic in upper Amazonia, for it is rarely found in one area for more than a few weeks at a time (Parker, pers. obs.). T. A. Parker et al. 125 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) ORANGE-CHEEKED PARROT Pionopsitta barrabandi As in other upper Amazonian forests, this species was fairly common at Alto Madidi and along the lower Rio Heath, but was rarely seen except in rapid flight low over the canopy of terra firme forest away from the rivers. It was unusually numerous at Alto Madidi, where up to 16 were heard each morning along c. 5 km ofa logging road; the birds passed over singly, in pairs, and regularly in groups of 6 individuals; we once saw at least 12 flying together in a compact flock, this being the largest number we have ever seen at one time, except for the large numbers (up to 40 or more) that regularly gather with other parrots at mineral licks on steep riverbanks in upper Amazonia (pers. obs.; C. Munn, pers. comm.). While foraging these parrots were silent and almost invisible; they slowly crept along branches and pulled off fruits without rustling the foliage. Three together fed on Ficus sphenophylla figs, and another pair was noted in the crown of a fig with larger fruits. The high density of P. barrabandi at Alto Madidi may relate to the relative scarcity of Pionus menstruus and Amazona spp. in the area. In August 1988 Parker observed small numbers of P. barrabandi each day, always in flight, over the lower Rio Heath, and Parker and Rocha heard (LNS) one over forest at Versalles, Dpto. Beni, the southernmost record ever for the species. The only previous Bolivian records were reported by Remsen & Ridgely (1980) and Parker & Remsen (1987). SEMICOLLARED NIGHTHAWK Lurocalis semitorquatus A specimen of L. s. nattereri collected by Rocha at the Estacion Biologica del Beni on 24 October 1988 is the first documented record of this species for Bolivia. Sight records of L. semitorquatus from Mucden, Dpto. Pando, in June 1986 (Parker, unpubl.), several seen at dusk over stunted forest near Aserradero Moira, west of the Serrania de Huanchaca, Dpto. Santa Cruz, in August 1989 (Bates & Parker, unpubl.), and tape- recordings (LNS) of one flying over high-ground forest 1km W of Versalles, Dpto. Beni, at first light on 21 August 1990 were almost surely of this form. Previous published records of Lurocalis from Bolivia pertain to the highland species rufiventris, whose morphological and vocal differ- ences warrant separation of rufiventris from semitorquatus. All forms of the latter are vocally similar (P. Schwartz, pers. comm.; pers. obs.; Hardy & Reynard 1988). BAND-TAILED NIGHTHAWEK WN yctiprogne leucopyga Bates et al. (1989) reported the first Bolivian records from the Rio Paragua at Piso Firme, Dpto. Santa Cruz. Eight individuals (AMNH 791795-791802) collected by J. Cuello along the Rio Iténez, ‘‘frente de Costa Marques’’, “‘arriba de Costa Marques’’, and at the “‘boca del Rio Baures’’, Dpto. Beni, from 31 August to 3 October 1964 (A. Capparella, in litt.), are the first Bolivian specimens. The species is apparently abun- dant along the Rio Iténez/Guaporeé, for Parker and Rocha observed more than 60 flying low over shrubby vegetation on the high west bank of the Rio Iténez at Versalles, Dpto. Beni, at dusk on 20 August 1990; these were accompanied by one Chordeiles rupestris and at least one male Hydropsalis climacocerca, the latter not previously reported from Dpto. Beni. T. A. Parker et al. 126 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) Nyctiprogne will no doubt be found along the entire length of the Rio Itenez/Guapore, as well as other blackwater rivers in Beni and Santa Cruz. GREY-RUMPED SWIFT Chaetura cinereiventris On 20 June we watched small groups of 3—4 displaying pairs (LNS) of C. cineretventris circling low over tall, lower montane forest at 800 m on the east slope of Serrania Pilon, Dpto. Beni. At least two large flocks of (up to 60) cinereiventris accompanied by smaller numbers of C. egregia were observed flying low over the lower Rio Heath, Dpto. La Paz, on 11 August 1988, following the passage of a cold front. The species was also fairly common (up to 12 noted daily) over foothill forest at Alto Madidi in late May 1990. On 20 September 1989 two specimens (LSUMNS) were col- lected by T. J. Davis over humid evergreen forest 30 km E of Aserradero Moira, at the west base of Serrania Huanchaca, Dpto. Santa Cruz. These are the first records of Chaetura cinereiventris for the departments of La Paz, Beni and Santa Cruz. The first Bolivian records were from Dpto. Pando (Parker & Remsen 1987). LESSER SWALLOW-TAILED SWIFT Panyptila cayennensis ‘Two flying low over gallery forest c. 60 km E of San Borja on 23 June 1989, and two flying high (LNS) over foothill forest at Alto Madidi on 20 June 1990 represent the second and third Bolivian records (see Parker & Remsen 1987) and first departmental records for Beni and La Paz. The species is undoubtedly widespread but uncommon over much of north- ern Bolivia. Its solitary habits (rarely are more than 2 seen at once) and tendency to forage very high make the species difficult to detect. SCARLET-HOODED BARBET Eubucco tucinkae This little-known species, until now thought to be endemic to Peru, was found in floodplain forest within 150 m of the river at Alto Madidi in late May 1990. At least two pairs were located in tall (35 m) forest domi- nated by a relatively small number of tree species, the most conspicuous of which were Terminalia oblonga, Sapium marmieri, S. ixiamasense, Acacia loretensis, Cedrela odorata, Erythrina sp. and Nectandra reticulata, with smaller under-story trees including a Sorocea sp. and Triplaris poep- pigiana (R. Foster, pers. comm.). The middle-story was open, but there was a dense ground cover of Heliconia metallica and scattered thickets of spiny bamboo (Guadua sp.). The barbets were repeatedly observed in dense vine tangles high in the crowns of Terminalia and other tall trees, where they searched curled, dead leaves trapped in the tangles, in the manner of other Neotropical barbets (Remsen & Parker 1984). Calling males responded aggressively to tape playbacks of their songs, low- pitched, resonant series (boo-boo-boo-boo-boo) lasting about 4 seconds, given at intervals of 10-15 seconds (Bolivian recordings in LNS); the boo notes almost run together, occasionally producing a quavering effect. While vocalizing, birds often perched conspicuously on an open branch, with the bill held down almost touching the breast feathers. These bar- bets occasionally associated with mixed-species flocks containing such river-edge forest species as Campylorhynchus turdinus, Cissopis leveriana and Ramphocelus nigrogularis. Parker has also seen Eubucco tucinkae T. A. Parker et al. 127 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) feed on a variety of fruits, including those of several Ficus spp. (es- pecially perforata), Cecropia membranacea (Moraceae), Psychotria spp. (Rubiaceae), and Tabernaemontana sp. (Apocynaceae). This is the first report of Ewbucco tucinkae in Bolivia, although it will probably soon be found in Dpto. Pando, Bolivia, and Estado do Acre, Brazil. It is one of several upper Amazonian species found primarily in tall floodplain forests as well as foothill or lower montane forests at higher elevations (EL. tucinkae ranges to at least 850m in SE Peru; pers. obs.); others include Aulacorhynchus prasinus dimidiatus, Cephalopterus ornatus and Philydor rufus. GOLDEN-COLLARED TOUCANET Selenidera reinwardtit This species was fairly common at Alto Madidi in the canopy of tall forests away from the river; up to 3 pairs, and occasionally 3—4 individuals together, were noted daily. Parker & Remsen (1987) report the first Bolivian records from Dpto. Pando. The species probably occurs in forests west of the Rio Mamoreé in Dpto. Beni, where it replaces S. maculirostris. SPOT-BILLED TOUCANET Selenidera maculirostris At least 3 males calling (L.NS) in the canopy of forest 1-3 km W of Versalles represent the second Bolivian record (see Bates et al. 1989), and first for Dpto. Beni. This toucanet probably occurs widely in tall forests between the Rios Mamore and Itenez/Guapore. ASH-BROWED SPINETAIL Cranioleuca curtata This canopy-dwelling spinetail was until now known in Bolivia from one specimen from Dpto. Cochabamba, and from sight records from Serrania Bellavista, Dpto. La Paz (Remsen & Ridgely 1980). We found it to be a common member of mixed-species flocks in the canopy of tall forest on both slopes of Serrania Pilon, Dpto. Beni, where it occurred from 800 m to the ridgetops (1100 m). Singles or pairs were noted with 3— 4 mixed flocks daily along c. 4 km of road; they foraged along moss- and bromeliad-laden limbs and branches, in vine tangles (where they probed trapped dead leaves) and in palm fronds, mainly at 15—25 m. Several were tape-recorded (LNS). The species was also fairly common in mossy for- est at 1200-1550 m on ridges above the Rio Yuyo, c. 35 km SW of Apolo, Dpto. La Paz. At least 5 pairs were observed daily in that locality. GREATER THORNBIRD Phacellodomus ruber Surprisingly, this large furnariid was not known from Dpto. La Paz. It was common at Ixiamas near water in tall grassy areas with clumps of bushes and small trees; at least 4 vocal pairs were found in thick vegetation along the airstrip north of the village. It was also numerous on relatively dry, scrub-covered slopes in the Apolo area, especially where tall grass was prevalent c. 25-30 km SW of Apolo at elevations of 1100-1400 m; these areas were apparently covered with some type of forest until recently. In the Apolo region P. ruber occurred up to the lower edge of cloudforest, and a few individuals were even noted in Chusquea bamboo thickets along humid forest edges. Their large, stick nests almost in- variably were built on the branches of isolated trees (mostly in Didymopa- nax pittieri) in open areas. We would not be surprised if the seemingly T. A. Parker et al. 128 Bull, B.O.C. 1991 111(3) isolated Apolo population were found to represent an undescribed form, although all individuals found there sounded very like those at Ixiamas (LNS). POINT-TAILED PALMCREEPER Berlepschia rikeri This highly specialized inhabitant of Mauritia flexuosa swamps was first found in Bolivia at Porvenir, Dpto. Pando (Parker & Remsen, 1987). On 22 May 1990 Parker heard 2 pairs counter-singing from Mauritia along the north edge of Laguna Santa Rosa, along the lower Rio Tuiche, Dpto. La Paz, and on 2 June 1990 he heard another pair in Mauritia at the edge of gallery forest in savannah c. 7 km E of Ixiamas. In August 1988 Parker and colleagues also found palmcreepers to be relatively common in Mauritia-dotted savannah on the Pampas de Heath, Peru; they are pre- sumably common in similar habitat on the Bolivian (La Paz) side of the river as well. In May 1988 S. L. Hilty (im litt.) found two pairs of Berlepschiainasmall Mauritia swamp surrounded by hill forest at Mision Fatima, c. 5 km W of the Rio Mainique, Dpto. Beni. This small, isolated stand of Mauritia is many kilometres from the nearest suitable habitat to the northeast (pers. obs.). OLIVE-BACKED FOLIAGE-GLEANER Automolus infuscatus Not surprisingly, this widespread foliage-gleaner was a common inhabitant of older floodplain and upland (terra firme) forests at Alto Madidi. It presumably occurs throughout lowland La Paz, Pando (where first reported for the country by Parker & Remsen (1987)), and possibly northern Beni. CRESTED FOLIAGE-GLEANER Automolus dorsalis Our observations and tape-recordings of A. dorsalis in dense bamboo thickets at Alto Madidi (along the north bank of the river opposite camp), are the first for Bolivia. In southwestern Amazonia, and possibly throughout its range, the species is restricted to Guadua bamboo thickets inside floodplain or disturbed upland forests (in SE Peru as high as 800 m). It has recently been found in similar habitats in Brazil (Parker et al. MS). At Alto Madidi (and in the 'Tambopata Reserve in adjacent Madre de Dios, Peru) pairs rummaged in dead leaves and other debris trapped in the tangled upper portions of thickets, usually 4-10 m above ground. Contrary to Terborgh (1985), they regularly share river-edge bamboo thickets inside forest with Automolus rufipileatus, which tends to forage lower, and also with Simoxenops ucayalae, which splits open decay- ing bamboo stalks in search of arthropods. A. dorsalis regularly associates with other bamboo specialists, such as Cymbilaimus sanctaemariae and Cercomacra manu, the latter of which was also heard at Alto Madidi (the second Bolivian locality; see Parker & Remsen 1987). The voice and behaviour of Automolus dorsalis recall those of the bamboo-dwelling Anabazenops fuscus of southeastern Brazil. Both species utter staccato, antiphonal duets, in addition to a variety of other vocalizations (LNS). RUFOUS-TAILED XENOPS Xenops milleri One prolonged sighting (on 18 May 1990) by Parker of an individual foraging along vines and open branches in the canopy (20 m) of tall, high- ground forest at Alto Madidi is the first for Bolivia. In this locality the T. A. Parker et al. 129 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) species was clearly outnumbered by Xenops rutilans, of which one or two were found in most large canopy flocks. The scarcity of milleri was paral- leled by the relative scarcity or absence of other floodplain forest birds at Alto Madidi. Thamnomanes schistogynus was similarly scarce, and Auto- molus melanopezus, Automolus rubiginosus, Myrmotherula theringi and Ramphotrigon fuscicauda were not found at all. All of these occur regularly in floodplain forests, especially those with abundant bamboo under- story, of the Tambopata Reserve and Manu National Park not far to the north. The restriction of floodplain forests to narrow bands of habitat along the Rio Madidi (R. Foster, unpubl.) no doubt explains the absence of such species. UNDULATED ANTSHRIKE Frederickena unduligera A male observed and tape-recorded (LNS) in dense, Heliconia- dominated undergrowth of tall, swampy forest at Alto Madidi represents the first Bolivian record. The bird’s song was a rising series of 6—8 short whistles; it differed in pattern and quality from songs of more northerly populations (north of the Rios Napo and Amazonas in northern Loreto, Peru) which give a more rapid series of upward-inflected notes on one pitch. The relationship of populations of F’. unduligera separated by the Amazon should be investigated, as more than one biological species may be involved. The previous southernmost record of F. unduligera is an unpublished specimen, a male (LSUMZ 84761) collected in June 1977 by G. R. Graves at Quebrada Juliaca on the Peruvian side of the lower Rio Heath, Dpto. Madre de Dios, Peru. The species is everywhere uncom- mon or rare, and very difficult to detect during brief periods of fieldwork. The first record for the Tambopata Reserve, Dpto. Madre de Dios, for example, was obtained in August 1990 following 14 years of almost continuous inventory. UPLAND ANTSHRIKE Thamnophilus aroyae Remsen et al. (1982) summarized what was known of this Bolivian near-endemic. In June 1989 we discovered a population of T. aroyae in lower montane forest (at c. 800-1000 m) on Serrania Pilon, Dpto. Beni. Here 10-11 pairs held territories linearly spaced along the road-edge in (Chusquea?) bamboo and shrubby vegetation 1—3 m tall. Individuals for- aged inside forest up to 30 m from edges; one male was noted as high as 4 m ina dense vine tangle. At Calabatea, Dpto. La Paz, only one pair was found, in forest-edge undergrowth of Chusquea bamboo and vine tangles (to 3 m up) on tree trunks. In both areas pairs gleaned insects (including a 1.5cm green caterpillar and a small green orthopteran) from bamboo foliage by reaching or short-sallying to leaves and stems; they also searched clusters of dead bamboo and other leaves trapped in tangled branches. The species is presumably a colonizer of early successional vegetation in natural landslides, and is apparently now spreading along roads and other man-made clearings throughout the Yungas region of northern Bolivia. SCLATER’S ANTWREN Myrmotherula sclateri Parker & Remsen (1987) published the first Bolivian (Pando) records of this inconspicuous canopy antwren. The species was unusually common T. A. Parker et al. 130 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) at Alte Madidi in tall, vine-rich forests on high-ground, where pairs were observed in every flock of small insectivores in the canopy; as many as 12 individuals were noted each day. In August 1988 Parker heard (LNS) M. sclateri in the canopy of terra firme forests on both sides of the lower Rio Heath, and in August 1989 collected one (LSUMNS) male of several pairs found in moderately tall forest at the west base of the Serrania de Huanchaca, eastern Santa Cruz. The latter is the southernmost known locality for the species. LEADEN ANTWREN Myrmotherula assimilis A male (AMNH 792018) collected by J. Cuello along the Rio Iténez opposite Costa Marquez, Brazil (Remsen & Traylor 1989), was the first record for Dpto. Beni and a considerable southerly range extension. In August 1990 Parker and Rocha found this antwren even farther south, in a narrow band of seasonally flooded forest on both sides of the Rio Iténez/Guaporé at Versalles. Here pairs were noted (and taped, LNS) in association with other small canopy insectivores, including, somewhat surprisingly, Myrmotherula menetriesii and M. axillaris. WHITE-FRINGED ANTWREN Formicivora grisea Although found for the first time in Bolivia only recently (Cabot et al., in press), this formicariid is apparently widespread in the eastern third of the country. In September 1989 Bates et al. obtained additional speci- mens from the first Bolivian locality, the Serrania de Huanchaca region of Dpto. Santa Cruz, and in August 1990 Parker and Rocha found it to be fairly common in low thickets along forest edges at Perseverancia, along the upper Rio Negro, Dpto. Santa Cruz, and H. Justiniano tape-recorded and photographed a pair in the shrubby edge of forest along the airstrip at Versalles, Dpto. Beni. CHESTNUT-SHOULDERED ANTWREN Terenura humeralis Pairs or families (of 3—4) of this 1 inconspicuous antwren were noted with nearly all large mixed-species flocks in the canopy of tall terra firme forest at Alto Madidi, the second Bolivian locality (see Parker & Remsen 1987) and southernmost ever for the species. A female (MHNLP) was collected. WHITE-LINED ANTBIRD Percnostola lophotes ‘Two males collected (MHNLP) by Parker in bamboo thickets 1n river- edge forest at Alto Madidi, where common, are the first for Dpto. La Paz and the second for Bolivia (Parker & Remsen 1987). GOELDI’S ANTBIRD Myrmeciza goeldiui Several pairs tape-recorded (LNS) in Guadua bamboo and Heliconia undergrowth of tall floodplain forest within 150m of the river at Alto Madidi were the first for Dpto. La Paz and the second for Bolivia (Parker & Remsen 1987). SOOTY ANTBIRD Myrmeciza fortis This large formicariid was unusually common in the undergrowth of terra firme forests at Alto Madidi, the southernmost known locality for the species, the second for Bolivia (see Parker & Remsen 1987), and first for Dpto. La Paz. A female (MHNLP) was collected by Castillo. T. A. Parker et al. 131 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) STRIATED ANTTHRUSH Chamaeza nobilis This uncommon antthrush was heard only once (on 19 May 1990) at Alto Madidi, during nearly two weeks of fieldwork in its upland forest habitat. Parker has noticed the tendency for the species to be silent for up to several weeks at a time, in contrast to most other Amazonian formicar- iids, which vocalize almost daily during clear weather throughout the year. There is only one previous report of this species for Bolivia (Parker & Remsen 1987). ASH-THROATED GNATEATER Conopophaga peruviana One tape-recorded (LNS) in undergrowth of high-ground forest at Alto Madidi is the first record for Bolivia. The species is usually uncom- mon, local, and difficult to detect, but it will eventually be found in other lowland forests in Dpto. La Paz, and possibly also in the western part of Dpto. Pando. SHARPBILL Oxyruncus cristatus This species, not previously reported from Bolivia, was fairly common in stunted montane forest on sandy soil south of the Calabatea camp, c.33km SW of Apolo, at c. 1400-1600 m. Two to four were observed daily (5-7 June 1990), always singly with canopy mixed-species flocks of insectivores such as Philydor rufus, Anabacerthia striaticollis, Leptopogon superciliaris, and a peculiar mix of tanagers (e.g. Chlorospingus ophthalmi- cus, Hemithraupis guira, Tangara punctata, T. gyrola, T. cyanotis). One sharpbill watched for two minutes hung upside down and probed several clusters of leaves at the ends of branches in the lower canopy (at 8-10 m); it also perch-gleaned small purple fruits. Another individual fluttered along branches and scanned foliage in the manner of a typical flycatcher. We occasionally heard the distinctive call of O. cristatus, a long, down- slurred whistle that becomes burry towards the end. The occurrence of Oxyruncus cristatus in the interior yungas of north- ern Bolivia is not unexpected because the species has been found as far south as the Serrania Pantiacolla, Dpto. Cuzco, Peru (Fitzpatrick et al., MS); its distribution along the eastern slopes of the Andes is patchy, however, and it apparently occurs mainly in stunted forests on rather sandy soils near the crests of outlying ridges, as opposed to taller, more floristically diverse forests on the main ridges. Oxyruncus habitat at Calabatea was dominated by a palm (Dictyocaryum sp.) that has a similarly local distribution (A. Gentry, pers. comm.). PLANALTO TYRANNULET Phyllomyias fasciatus Parker and Gell-Mann were surprised to discover a population of this small flycatcher in lower montane forest on the east slope of Serrania Pilon, Dpto. Beni, at c. 850-900 m. The first Bolivian specimen was recently collected in the Serrania de Huanchaca, in extreme eastern Dpto. Santa Cruz (Cabot et al., in press). We watched 3 individuals foraging in crowns of small trees at the edge of mossy forest; their calls or songs (descending series of 3—4 plaintive, short whistles) and bubbling anti- phonal duets were tape-recorded (LLNS). These vocalizations sounded faster and higher-pitched than those of birds Parker has heard in SE Brazil and NE Argentina. In response to playbacks, all three individuals T. A. Parker et al. 132 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) were lured into the open, lower branches of a small tree, where they nervously turned from side to side, flicked their wings and tails, and vocalized in unison. Another pair was heard in nearby forest canopy. The Pilon population may represent an undescribed form that probably ranges to the north and south on the forested slopes of outlying Andean ridges; it should even be looked for in Peru. ROUGH-LEGGED TYRANNULET Phyllomyias burmeisteri This frequently overlooked tyrannulet of the canopy was seen or heard in five different areas on the east slope of Serrania Pilon at 800-1000 m. All were solitary individuals perched in the uppermost branches (25— 30 m) of tall trees (3 of 5 had sparse, small foliage); they persistently gave high-pitched feeent notes at regular intervals of several seconds, and occasionally gave long descending series of 12—16 closely spaced, similar notes. After calling for more than 5 minutes, two of the birds flew 150— 200 m to another treetop and resumed calling. Territories are apparently quite large. At Calabatea singles were seen with two large canopy flocks in stunted montane forest on sandy soil, c. 33 km NW of Apolo at c. 1300— 1400 m; both were sluggish and rather vireo-like in appearance and behaviour; they peered about for up to 10 sec at a time, and made short, upward sallies to the undersides of small and medium-sized leaves. One bird twice hover-gleaned the tip of a larger leaf. Surprisingly, P. burmeisteri was also found in deciduous montane forest at Chaquimayo, along the Rio Machariapo, c.17 km N of Apolo at 1000 m (tape-recordings by L. Emmons and E. Wolf). The above records suggest that this species is more widespread in Bolivia than previously thought; it was until now known from only 2 specimens from Dptos. Cochabamba and Santa Cruz (Bond & Meyer de Schauensee 1943, Remsen et al. 1987). WHITE-LORED TYRANNULET Ornithion inerme Although there is only one published record of this tyrannid for Bolivia (Parker & Remsen 1987), it is actually fairly common throughout north- ern Bolivia south to central Dpto. Santa Cruz. We found it at three lo- calities in Dpto. La Paz: (1) Alto Madidi, (2) along the lower Rio Heath, (3) c.25km S of Tumupassa; four localities in Dpto. Beni: (1) on both slopes of Serrania Pilon up to 875 m, (2) c.6 km SE of Rurrenabaque, (3) c. 25 km E of San Borja, (4) c. 1-5 km W of Versalles; and in Dpto. Santa Cruz: (1) upper Rio Saguayo, Parque Nacional Amboré, (2) Perseveran- cia, upper Rio Negro, (3) Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado (throughout forested portions of park, including those on the Huanchaca meseta at 600-750 m). This is perhaps the most frequently overlooked canopy tyrannid in Amazonia. SHARP-TAILED TYRANT Culicivora caudacuta This species occurs locally, but widely, in the open grasslands of Dpto. Beni, where first found by Schmitt & Schmitt (1987). Parker and Gell- Mann observed 4 families (of 5, 4, 4 and 3 individuals) in open, tall Trachypogon grassland with only a few widely scattered bushes, c. 26— 35 km E of San Borja; another group of 4 was noted 10 km SW of San T. A. Parker et al. 133 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Borja. These tiny flycatchers move about in closely knit groups, perching within a few feet of each other at or near the tops of tall grass stalks. After foraging for several minutes in one area they almost invariably fly 50 or more metres to another area. The territory of one pair was at least 300 m’. They foraged by sally-striking and sally-hovering to grass stalks and foliage of small bushes. They also clung upright to stalks and picked at dried flowers. Among tyrannids, only this species and Myiornis spp. have a whirring, hummingbird-like manner of flight. The nasal, rather buzzy call notes of Culicivora are far-carrying but easily overlooked. Pairs periodically deliver antiphonal duets (LNS) while perched close together high on grass stalks. On 2 June 1990 Parker and Castillo found a group of at least 4 C. caudacuta in the largest expanse of open grassland c. 7 km E of Ixiamas; this is the first record for Dpto. La Paz, and the westernmost for the species. Another population was discovered in August 1990 by Parker and Rocha on Cerro San Simon, a small, isolated mountain in eastern Beni (Parker & Rocha, in press). Culicivora caudacuta also inhabits open grasslands (campo limpo) of the Serrania de Huanchaca, Dpto. Santa Cruz, at 600-750 m, where found in widely scattered groups of 3—4 individuals during August-September 1989 (pers. obs.; J. Bates, pers. comm.). In drier upland areas Culicivora are most often found in lusher areas of sedges and grasses known as valley side campos (see Eiten 1975 for descriptions of campo plant communities). OLIVE-STRIPED FLYCATCHER Mionectes olivaceus One to several individuals observed daily in upland forest at Alto Madidi, and a specimen collected there by A. Castillo (MHNLP) are the first Bolivian records. Singles were noted with most large canopy flocks; they characteristically perched upright, peering about (with bobbing head) for many seconds at a time, and regularly sally-hovered to leaves in the manner of other Mionectes spp. 1-3 M. olivaceus fed frequently on the large, dark fruits of a small forest tree, Amaioua corymbosa (Rubiaceae). These fruits also attracted unusually large numbers of Dacnis lineata and Pipra chloromeros, and smaller numbers of Pipra coronata, Chlorophanes spiza and Dacnis cayana. Phylloscartes sp. nov. This undescribed tyrannulet was previously known from a small number of specimens and sight records from 4—5 Peruvian localities in Dptos. Huanuco, Pasco, and Cuzco (J. Fitzpatrick, pers. comm.,; pers. obs.). Parker, Gell-Mann and S. Beebe studied two pairs in forest canopy on Serrania Pilon at c. 875 m, and tape-recorded two types of vocalization (LNS). The birds foraged in rather sparse, small foliage of forest-edge treetops (esp. Inga spp.) 12-18m above ground. They made short upward sallies (1—2 cm) to leaves and stems. Their horizontal Phyllos- cartes posture (with tail held straight back or slightly cocked) and periodic wing flashes, combined with the chestnut coloration around the eyes, were diagnostic. Calls included a double chip note, and a similar note followed by a trill. T. A. Parker et al. 134 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) SNETHLAGE’S TODY-TYRANT Hemitriccus minor First reported for Bolivia from the Serrania de Huanchaca, Dpto. Santa Cruz by Bates et al. (1989), this species is apparently widespread in the eastern third of the country. In August 1990, Parker and Rocha found it to be common in stunted, vine-rich forests along the upper Rio Negro at Perseverancia, Dpto. Santa Cruz, and in similar forest at Versalles, Dpto. Beni. ZIMMER’S TODY-TYRANT Hemitriccus aenigma ‘This enigmatic tyrannid was known from 8 specimens from 4 localities along the Rio Tapajos, Brazil (D. F. Stotz, pers. comm.), and from 6 specimens recently collected in stunted forests (9-12 m tall) on sandy soil in the Serrania de Huanchaca, Dpto. Santa Cruz (J. Bates and Parker, pers. obs.). On 21—22 August 1990 Parker and Rocha found at least 3 vocal individuals at 16—20 m in the canopy of somewhat taller (avg. 20 m), vine- rich forest on lateritic soil c. 1-5 km W of Versalles, Dpto. Beni. Their calls, soft twittering trills (L.NS), are fairly loud but ventriloquial and difficult to locate. This species probably occurs widely east of the Rio Mamore in Dptos. Beni and Santa Cruz. YUNGAS TODY-TYRANT Hemitriccus spodiops Remsen et al. (1982) summarized the scanty available information on this Bolivian endemic. It is probably more widespread and common than previously thought, and almost surely occurs in Dpto. Puno, Peru. In June 1989 Parker and Gell-Mann found up to 12 each day in bamboo and dense, shaded forest-edge shrubbery on both slopes of Serrania Pilon above 875 m. Nearly all individuals called from 1—3 m up in bushes and small trees. At least 20 different individuals were heard along c. 4 km of road E and W of the pass. The species was also common in similar habitat at Calabatea, Dpto. La Paz, at c. 1200-1600 m; up to 12 were noted each day along c.3 km of road; others were heard at a distance in shrubby vegetation and bamboo along edges of natural landslides, this surely being the original habitat of the species. Other records include several tape-recorded by L. Emmons and E. Wolf at the edges of semideciduous forest at Chaquimayo, along the Rio Machariapo, c.17km N of Apolo, Dpto. La Paz. PLUMBEOUS TYRANT Knipolegus signatus A male perched 1—2 m above ground on bamboo stalks in forest-edge at the road pass on Serrania Pilon at c. 1000 m is the first record for Dpto. Beni. The bird was uniformly ash grey, with red eyes and a whitish, dark- tipped bill; it looked very like LSUMZ specimens of nominate signatus from northern and central Peru, which are noticeably larger and darker soot-grey or blackish, with ‘brown’ or ‘chestnut’ eyes. These morpho- logical differences suggest that two species may presently comprise signatus. COCK-TAILED TYRANT Alectrurus tricolor This beautiful species is known from only 3 Bolivian localities (Bond & Meyer de Schauensee 1942, Remsen 1986). We found it to be uncommon T. A. Parker et al. 135 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) and local in the most extensive, open grasslands c. 15-35 km E of San Borja; a few were also noted 9-11 km SW of San Borja along the road to Yacumo. On 24 June 1989 we found 10 males, 7 with or near single females, and on 25 June 4 males (3 with females) were seen. Males were widely separated, all at least 300 m apart, in nearly pure stands of Trachy- pogon grassland 1—1.5m tall. This habitat was muddy underfoot and is probably inundated during the wet season. All individuals perched con- spicuously near the tops of grass stalks, occasionally dropping deep into the grass (presumably to capture insects) or sallying to nearby stalks. They also sallied 4-8 m up into the air in pursuit of small insects in flight. Flying females usually stimulated males to undertake flight displays. The full male display is spectacular: the bird flies (silently) with rapid, shallow wingbeats in a low arc over the grass, gradually reaching a height of 3-6 m, while flicking its broad, flag-like outer tail feathers well above the back. These flights vary in length depending upon the location of visible females, but probably average 30-40 m. Inexplicably, we found no Alectrurus in large areas of seemingly suitable habitat (pure stands of tall grass) east and west of the above localities. Its relative scarcity and patchy distribution suggest that the species may be sensitive to a variety of factors such as seasonal flooding, overgrazing and trampling by cattle, and frequent burning. On 2 June 1990 Parker and Castillo found 4 male and 3—4 female A. tricolor in tall, nearly pure grassland c. 7 km E of Ixiamas, Dpto. La Paz; this is the first record for the department and westernmost ever for the species. Although Alectrurus tricolor occurs mainly in upland (campo limpo) grasslands in central Brazil (pers. obs.), it appears to frequent both well-drained and seasonally flooded grasslands in Bolivia. STREAMER-TAILED TYRANT Gubernetes yetapa Like Alectrurus tricolor and Culicivora caudata, this grassland species occurs very locally and in small densities, in tall grasslands with scat- tered trees and bushes. In June 1989 we found it to be relatively numerous (as compared to its scarcity in at least 4 Brazilian campo lo- calities frequently visited by Parker); at least 7 pairs or families (of 4—5 individuals) were noted during two mornings of fieldwork c. 11-50 km east of San Borja; several pairs were also observed near the Estacion Biologica del Beni. On 2 June 1990, Parker and Castillo found 3 pairs (1 with 2 immatures) along c. 2 km of road through open grassland with scattered trees c. 6— 8 km E of Ixiamas. The species had not previously been found west of the Rio Beni, or in Dpto. La Paz. At both Ixiamas and San Borja, Gubernetes yetapa was found in tall grasslands (of Trachypogon spp. mixed with other coarse, tall grasses) that are inundated during the wet season. T'rees (especially Curatella americana) and shrubs are conspicuous but widely spaced. Whether Gubernetes moves seasonally to this habitat from well- drained areas is not known. These flycatchers perch conspicuously atop bushes and isolated, small trees, and drop into the grass or onto open ground in pursuit of large arthropods, including grasshoppers and beetles. They also make long flights to capture flying prey, especially grasshoppers, and a pair was once T. A. Parker et al. 136 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) observed clinging to tassles at the ends of grass stalks, where they captured two brownish caterpillars about 4cm long. Pairs of adults aggressively defend very large territories of at least 500m’; in response to playback of calls or songs they invariably fly (from as far as 300m away) directly toward the sound source and land on the nearest tree or bush, where they perform an extraordinary visual and vocal display well described by Belton (1985). WHITE-THIGHED SWALLOW Neochelidon tibialis One was collected (MHNLP) on 23 May 1990 by Castillo from a group of 6 perched on bare branches in the top of a tall forest tree above a small stream at Alto Madidi; other small groups (4-8) were observed on two days flying low through the canopy of hilly upland forest at the same locality. These are the first records for Dpto. La Paz, and only the second for Bolivia (see Parker & Remsen 1987). TAWNY-HEADED SWALLOW Alopochelidon fucata At least 6 of these swallows were observed flying low and high over dry grassland with scattered trees c. 27 km E of San Borja, Dpto. Beni, on 25 June 1989. Several were ‘singing’ while in flight (LNS), which suggests that the birds represent a resident population. The habitat (campo sujo) is very like that preferred by breeding A. fucata in central Brazil (pers. obs.). Two others were seen over open grassland c. 40 km E of San Borja on 24 June. These are the first records of this species for Dpto. Beni. CHESTNUT-BREASTED WREN Cyphorhinus thoracicus On 7 June 1990 Parker heard the unmistakable songs of a pair of this species 1n a densely vegetated ravine in mossy forest near Calabatea at 1400 m, c. 33 km SW of Apolo, Dpto. La Paz. Although this is the first report of C. thoracicus for Bolivia, it has been collected (LSUMNS) at Abra Maruncunca, 10 km SW of San Juan del Oro, Dpto. Puno, Peru, within a few kilometres of the Bolivian border. LAWRENCE’S THRUSH Turdus lawrenci Parker & Remsen (1987) reported the first Bolivian records from Dpto. Pando. The species also occurs widely in Dpto. La Paz, where found to be fairly common in tall floodplain forest along the lower Rio Heath within 30 km of Puerto Pardo in August 1988 (up to 10 heard each day); it was rare or not vocal in similar forest at Alto Madidiin May 1990 (calls of only 2 were heard during two weeks), and one was heard in full song in swamp forest at the edge of Laguna Santa Rosa, along the lower Rio Tuiche on 22 June 1990. The latter is the southernmost (14°30’S) locality for the species. VIOLACEOUS JAY Cyanocorax violaceus Recent Bolivian records, the first for Dpto. La Paz and second for the country (see Parker & Remsen 1987) include a flock of 5 flying over second-growth forest c.3km N of Rurrenebaque, and another group heard in forest-edge trees c. 15 km S of Tumupassa. In May 1990 two flocks (of 6 and 7 individuals) were constantly in second-growth wood- land and young river-edge forest within 1 km of the Alto Madidi camp. T. A. Parker et al. 137 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) These birds were usually found in association with large mixed foraging flocks of oropendolas and caciques (especially Psarocolius angustifrons, P. decumanus and P. bifasciatus). This jay is apparently fairly common at the base of the Andes in Dpto. La Paz, and probably occurs, at least occasion- ally, south of the Rio Beni in Dpto. Beni. It is replaced in the gallery forests and cerrado at Ixiamas, and in second-growth forests to the south, by Cyanocorax cyanomelas. MASKED CRIMSON TANAGER Ramphocelus nigrogularis One collected on 24 May 1990 by Castillo in tall swamp forest at Alto Madidi, where uncommon, is the first specimen for Bolivia, although sight records from the Rio Tahuamanu above Porvenir, Dpto. Pando, were reported by Parker & Remsen (1987). OPAL-CROWNED TANAGER Tangara callophrys A pair tape-recorded (L.NS) in the tops of tall upland forest trees at Alto Madidi on 24 May 1990, and a few others observed with large canopy flocks of Tangara spp. and other tanagers at the same locality, represent the second Bolivian record (see Parker & Remsen 1987), and southern- most ever for the species. This tanager was observed on one occasion with a small group of Opal-rumped Tanagers T. velia, not previously recorded in Dpto. La Paz, and 6—8 Paradise Tanagers T. chilensis. BLACK-AND-WHITE TANAGER Conothraupis speculigera A female-plumaged individual observed by Parker in river-edge forest vine tangles (4-6 m above ground) at Alto Madidi on 28 May 1990 is the first record for Bolivia. The bird associated with a large mixed-species flock comprised of Ramphocelus carbo, Thryothorus genibarbis and other medium-sized insectivores. The Piranga-like shape and size of the bird, its olive upperparts and pale yellowish underparts, and the diagnostic streaking on its breast were all noted. This species should be looked for, especially from June to August, in floodplain forests throughout upper Amazonia (see Isler & Isler 1988). CASQUED OROPENDOLA Psarocolius oseryi One tape-recorded (LLNS) in forest-edge trees along the airstrip on 26 May 1990, and later seen several times in riverine forest at Alto Madidi, represents the first record for Bolivia. The species is probably more numerous in foothills west of Alto Madidi, and will probably also be found along the Rio Heath to the north. It is fairly common in upland forests of the Tambopata Reserve, Dpto. Madre de Dios, Peru, not far to the northeast. Acknowledgements We would like to thank the following organizations and individuals for their help and support of our fieldwork in Bolivia: Museo de Historia Natural (La Paz), Museo de Historia Natural Noel Kempff Mercado (Santa Cruz), Instituto de Ecologia (La Paz), Centro de Datos para la Conservacion (La Paz), Centro de Desarollo Forestal (Santa Cruz), Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado, Stefan Beck, Teresa Centurion, Robin Clark, Eduardo Forno, Maria Marconi, Arturo Moscoso, Walter Vandiver, Nestor Ruiz, Marcelo Sommerstein, and Marcelo Zalles. Parker’s work in Bolivia was made possible by a T. A. Parker et al. 138 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) MacArthur Foundation grant to Conservation International (Washington, DC), as well as by the Louisiana State University Museum of Natural Science. Special thanks are due Hermes Justiniano and the Fundacion Amigos de la Naturaleza (Santa Cruz) for their unflagging support and logistical help on two major expeditions. We also thank the follow- ing colleagues for permission to publish their observations: J. Bates, S. Beebe, T. J. Davis, L. Emmons, J. W. Fitzpatrick, R. Foster, A. Gentry, S. L. Hilty, H. Justiniano, P. Marra, C. Munn, D. Ricalde, K. R. Rosenberg, C. Walton, E. Wolf and W. Wust. Finally, J. V. Remsen, K. R. Rosenberg and J. Bates reviewed the manuscript and provided numerous suggestions for its improvement. References: Bates, J. M., Garvin, M. C., Schmitt, C. G. & Schmitt, D. S. 1989. Notes on bird distri- bution in the Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado, extreme northeastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 109: 236-244. Belton, W. 1985. Birds of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Part 2. Formicariidae through Corvidae. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 180. Blake, E. R. 1977. Manual of Neotropical Birds. Volume 1. University of Chicago Press. Bond, J. & Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1942. The birds of Bolivia. Part 1. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sct. Philadelphia 94: 307-391. Bond, J. & Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1943. The birds of Bolivia. Part 2. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sct. Philadelphia 95: 167-221. Cabot, J., Castroviejo, J. & Urios, V. Cuatro nuevas especies de aves para Bolivia. Donana, Acta Vertebrata (in press). Eiten, J. 1975. The vegetation of the Serra Roncador. Biotropica 7: 112-135. Hardy, J. W. & Reynard, C. 1985. Voices of New World Nightbirds (cassette tape). Florida State Museum. Isler, M. L. & Isler, P. R. 1987. The Tanagers. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, Niethammer, G. 1953. Zur Vogelwelt Boliviens. Bonn. Zool. Beitr. 4: 195-303. O'Neill, J. P., Munn, C. A. & Franke, J. I. 1991. A new species of parrotlet (Nannopsittaca) from eastern Peru. Auk 108. Parker, T. A., III & Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1987. Fifty-two Amazonian bird species new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 94-106. Parker, T. A., III, Fitzpatrick, J. W. & Stotz, D. F.(MS). Notes on avian bamboo specialists in southwest Amazonian Brazil. Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1986. Aves de una localidad en la sabana humeda del norte de Bolivia. Ecologia en Bolivia 8: 21-36. Remsen, J. V., Jr. & Parker, T. A., III. 1984. Arboreal dead-leaf-searching birds of the neotropics. Condor 86: 36-41. Remsen, J. V., Jr., Parker, T. A., III & Ridgely, R. S. 1982. Natural history notes on some poorly known Bolivian birds. Gerfaut 72: 77-87. Remsen, J. V., Jr. & Ridgely, R. S. 1980. Additions to the avifauna of Bolivia. Condor 82: 69-75. Remsen, J. V., Jr., Traylor, M. A., Jr. & Parkes, K. C. 1987. Range extensions for some Bolivian birds, 3 (Tyrannidae to Passeridae). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 6-16. Remsen, J. V., Jr. & Traylor, M. A., Jr. 1989. An Annotated List of the Birds of Bolivia. Buteo Books, Vermillion, South Dakota. Schmitt, G. G. & Schmitt, D. C. 1987. Extensions of range for some Bolivian birds. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 129-134. Schulenberg, T.S. & Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1982. Eleven birds new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 102: 52-57. Terborgh, J. 1985. Habitat selection in Amazonian birds. Pp. 311-338 in M. L. Cody (ed.), Habitat Selection in Birds. Academic Press, New York. Addresses: T. A. Parker, III, Museum of Natural Science, 119 Foster Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, U.S.A. Abel Castillo U., Fundacion Amigos de la Naturaleza, P.O. Box 2241, Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Murray Gell-Mann, California Insti- tute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, U.S.A. Omar Rocha O., Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Calle 26 Cota Cota, Casilla 8706, La Paz, Bolivia. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 G. R. Graves 139 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) ‘Taxonomic status of the Sword-billed Hummingbird Ensifera ensifera caerulescens by Gary R. Graves Received 24 November 1990 Ensifera ensifera caerulescens (Lowe, 1939) was described from an unique specimen in the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter. According to Lowe (1939: 73) the new taxon is distinguished by “‘its smaller dimen- sions and by having the sides of the neck and band across the chest, when held to the light, bright metallic blue’’. Walters (1986) was apparently the first since Lowe to critically examine the type. He confirmed Lowe’s diagnosis and concluded that caerulescens may be a valid taxon and that there was no reason to suppose that the colour was due to an aberration. As part of a comprehensive review of Sword-billed Hummingbird sys- tematics I examined the type of FE. ensifera caerulescens. Here I present evidence that casts doubt on its taxonomic validity. The specimen is a taxidermy mount with head and bill tilted upwards to the left; the left side of the neck and upper breast are slightly concealed from view. The plumage is faded, especially the throat and breast. When male specimens of nominate E. ensifera are viewed head-on in direct light, the lower throat is bordered posteriorly from shoulder to shoulder by a brilliant green pectoral band. In caerulescens, the colour of the pectoral band is bluish-green (changing with the angle of inspection) on the exposed right side, becoming slightly greener on the concealed left side. The feathers that reflect the bluest light when viewed head-on are violet or bluish-violet in indirect light. These are asymmetrically distributed; about twice as many violet feathers occur to the right of the ventral mid- line as to the left. When viewed under a 7-30 x stereo microscope the bases of violet feathers that are concealed by overlapping feathers are green as in nominate E. ensifera. In other words, only portions of the pectoral feathers that are exposed to light are violet. The asymmetric distribution of blue or violet feathers strongly suggests that the distinguishing character of caerulescens is an artifact, possibly the result of exposure to light. The occurrence of unfaded feather bases in the affected area corroborates that possibility. In sum, the evi- dence indicates that the distinguishing character of E. e. caerulescens Lowe, 1939 is due to postmortem change. It should thus be placed in the synonymy of Ensifera ensifera (Boissoneau, 1839). Acknowledgements I am grateful to Kelvin Boot, Curator of the Royal Albert Museum, for lending the type of E. e. caerulescens and to the United States Department of State for safely transporting it to Washington. I thank Richard Banks for commenting on the manuscript and Banks, Ralph Browning, and Richard Zusi for examining the specimen. References: Lowe, W. P. 1939. The bird collections in the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter. Ibis (14)3: 65-75. M. R. Browning 140 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Walters, M. 1986. A re-examination of the types of Trogon rossi, and Ensifera ensifera caerulescens. Hornero 12: 301-302. Address: Dr Gary R. Graves, Department of Vertebrate Zoology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists Club 1991 ‘Taxonomic comments on the Dunlin Calidris alpina from northern Alaska and eastern Siberia by M. Ralph Browning Received 27 November 1990 ‘The population of Calidris alpina that breeds north of the Brooks Range in northern Alaska was considered by the American Ornithologists’ Union (1957) to belong to the subspecies pacifica Coues, 1861 of western Alaska. That northern population is now referred to either arcticola Todd, 1953 (Browning 1977, Cramp & Simmons 1983, Morrison 1984, Greenwood 1986), or sakhalina Vieillot, 1816 (MacLean & Holmes 1971, Prater et al. 1977, Johnsgard 1981, Hayman et al. 1986), the subspecies that also breeds in northeastern Siberia (Kozlova 1962, Vaurie 1965). Calidris alpina is now known to breed also to the south on the Kamchatka Peninsula (Tomkovich 1986) and Sakhalin Island (Nechaev 1978). ‘Tomkovich (op. cit.) defined the range of sakhalina as the Chukotsky Peninsula, Anadyr’ Lowlands and Wrangel Island of north- eastern Siberia, and proposed the subspecific name kistchinski for birds that breed on the Kamchatka Peninsula, northern Kuril Islands, south- western Koryak Highlands, and the northwestern coast of the Sea of Okhotsk. He characterized arcticola as differing from sakhalina only in the colour of the back, and kistchinski as differing from sakhalina in the longer exposed culmen and more heavily speckled black plumage with narrower and less rusty borders of the dorsal feathers. Another sub- species, litoralis, was proposed by Nechaev & Tomkovich (1987) for birds that breed on northern Sakhalin Island. The name /toralis is preoccupied by Tringa littoralis Brehm, 1831, and the new subspecies was renamed actites by Nechaev & Tomkovich (1988). Calidris a. actites was character- ized as the smallest (wing, culmen, weight) of the subspecies in eastern Siberia and northern Alaska and with a blacker crown than in kistchinskz. My earlier study (Browning 1977) included a series from Gizhiga, Siberia, as sakhalina but according to ’Tomkovich (1986) the specimens are from the range of kistchinski. Because of this, and because other studies (e.g. Greenwood 1986) of the species did not include specimens from the range of the newly described taxa from eastern Siberia, I have reevaluated arcticola, sakhalina and the new subspecies. This study included specimens of sakhalina, kistchinski and actites selected by Dr M. R. Browning 141 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) TABLE 1 Measurements of exposed culmen and wing length of specimens of Calidris alpina from their breeding ranges in northern Alaska and Siberia Exposed culmen Wing (chord'”; flattened*"*) Taxon n range mean+SD n range mean+SD males arcticola 56’ 29.8-38.7 33.6+1.7 WX 114.1-122.7 AD e7, sakhalina 29° = 30.4-36.0 32.9+1.4 263 111.5-122.0 117.4+2.7 7? 29.7-36.6 32.0+2.4 7? 112.8-117.2 116.5+2.6 Ristchinski 144 31.4-38.3 34.54+2.1 148 111.5—122.0 115.8+2.8 52 SOF BAECS 1,332 0istyl 37 6° 113.5-120:1 TAS Sisk2!.6 actites Se 2824-3153) 2902-6 152 6* 104.5—111.0 107.6+2.7 6? 28.5-29.6 29.1+0.3 2 105.3-110.3 107.4+1.6 females arcticola 47' - 31.3-39.8 36.441.8 10? 113.9-121.0 117.0+2.0 sakhalina 144 34.5-40.4 37.0+1.6 1/23 112.5-125.5 120.5+3.6 62 33.7-43.0 37.4+3.4 6? 119.0-121.5 121.0+1.4 Ristchinski 9° 36.7-40.6 38.8+1.4 103 117.0-124.0 121.1+2.8 62 37.3-40.0 38.5+0.8 Ue 113.5-121.4 118.5+2.7 actites 174153370) 2 11,1.2 ‘Browning (1977). >This study. ’Tomkovich (1986). *Nechaev and Tomkovich (1987). Tomkovich, Zoological Museum, Moscow. My evaluation of the sub- species in C. alpina is based on birds from their respective breeding ranges. Comments on the non-breeding distributions are limited to a few specimens that I was able to identify to subspecies; many non-breeding birds from Europe (Gromadzdka 1989), Meininger & van Swelm 1989), as well as most from Siberia and Alaska, cannot be identified to subspecies. I found geographic variation in size between some populations. The means of measurements for the exposed culmen are similar in arcticola, sakhalina (sensu ’Tomkovich 1986, and as defined below) and kistchinskz, including specimens from Gizhiga, and are larger than in actites (Table 1). Although Greenwood (1986) gave a larger mean for wing length (flat- tened) in arcticola than in sakhalina, | found that the wing chords of these two subspecies and of kistchinski are similar. The shorter wing chord in actites does not overlap the range of the other subspecies (Table 1). Weights of males collected in July from northern Alaska range from about 48 to 68 g with the mean about 55 to 61 g (Holmes 1966a). The mean for birds collected in June, July and August is 55.4 g (MacLean & Holmes 1971). Males from Siberia collected in July ranged from 42 to 55 g (mean 48.6) in sakhalina, 43.7 to 46.8 g (mean 45.8) in kistchinski, and three males of actites were 35.5, 36.0 and 40.2 g (Nechaev & Tomkovich 1987). Geographic variation is greater in plumage colour and pattern than in size. The rusty colour of the back is slightly more reddish and darker in arcticola than in sakhalina and kistchinski. The edges of the back feathers are more yellow in kistchinski than in arcticola and sakhalina. The M. R. Browning 142 : Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) amount of black on the back feathers and crown is similar in arcticola and sakhalina but 1s greater in kistchinski, and is noticeably greatest in actites. The extent of black streaking on the upper breast is more extensive in kistchinski than in arcticola and sakhalina and is still more extensive in actites. Specimens from Gizhiga are similar to other specimens of kistchinski in dorsal colour and pattern. I did not find dark streaks on the undertail coverts in specimens of arcticola. Two of 7 males and 3 of 6 females of sakhalina have indistinct dark streaks, 6 of 7 males and 4 of 7 females of kistchinski are noticeably streaked, and 3 of 6 males of actites have indistinct streaks on their undertail coverts. ‘This character is appar- ently subject to individual variation in the taxa from Siberia. Nechaev & ‘Tomkovich (1987) reported that undertail streaks are present in most specimens of sakhalina and kistchinski and in only one specimen of actites. The extent of white on the leading edge of the eighth primary, a character contributing to wingbars (Hayman et al. 1986), is usually greater in arcticola than in sakhalina (Greenwood 1986). I found that the amount of white on the leading edge of the eighth primary in kistchinski ranges from very little to as much white as in arcticola. I found no white in actites; Nechaev & 'Tomkovich (1987) reported only one specimen of actites as having a white ‘speculum’ or wing-bar. I conclude that the populations breeding in northern Alaska, eastern Siberia and Sakhalin comprise four subspecies. The subspecific characters and remarks on distribution of the subspecies follow. Calidris a. arcticola (type locality Point Barrow, Alaska) differs from sakhalina by its greater weight, greater amount of white on the leading edge of the eighth primary, and slightly more reddish and darker rust colour dorsally. Calidris a. arcticola is redder on the back and has fewer black feathers on the back and crown than in kistchinski and actites. Birds from northern Alaska also lack the black streaks on the undertail coverts usually present in the subspecies from Siberia. The breeding range of arcticola, north of the Brooks Range, Alaska, is separated by about 260 km from the range of sakhalina and about 300 km from the range of pacifica. Five specimens (USNM 93208-93211) of arcticola from Point Barrow, Alaska, in winter plumage are darker grey dorsally and the few rusty feathers are redder than 4 specimens (USNM 81415, 81417, 348997, 348998) of sakhalina from the Chukotsky Peninsula. A specimen (USNM 465837) collected on Little Diomede Island, Alaska, in June (Kenyon & Brooks 1960) is an example of arcticola. Breeding arcticola banded at Point Barrow were recaptured in October at Cape Lazarev, Siberia, and Sakhalin Island (Norton 1971). Greenwood (1984) considered arcticola to migrate only to Asia. A series (USNM 526466—526471) collected near Seoul, Korea, in April are typical arcticola. Calidris a. sakhalina differs from kistchinski by its darker (less golden) rusty back and reduced amount of black on the crown and upper breast. This subspecies differs from arcticola as characterized above and 1s less black and larger than actites. Specimens in winter plumage have fewer black feathers dorsally than do kistchinski. The western limit of the breeding range of sakhalina is dependent on the acceptance of centralis M. R. Browning 143 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Buturlin, 1932 of the Yakutsk region, a subspecies not widely recognized (Ferns 1981, Greenwood 1986). A female (ZIAS 160504) from Cape Chaplin, Chukotsy Peninsula, identified as pacifica by Portenko (1972), is actually an example of sakhalina. Tomkovich (1986) concluded that the description of sakhalina by Vieillot (1816) and the painting of a Dunlin by Tilesius (zm Krusenstern 1814), which Vieillot cited, cannot be identified to any particular sub- species of C. alpina. Although Tomkovich contacted most European and Asian museums, he could not locate Tilesius’ specimen of C. alpina. (Tomkovich did not list the Paris Museum among the many museums he contacted, nor did he note that Svetovidov [1981] had reported that Cuvier received several holotypes from Tilesius from Petersburg that remained in Paris. Nonetheless, there is no record in the Paris Museum of Tilesius’ specimen of C. alpina [C. Erard, in litt.].) I agree with Tomkovich that the name sakhalina, as described, is a nomen dubium. Tomkovich (1986) preserved the name sakhalina by designating as a neo- type an adult male in the collection at the Zoological Museum of Moscow State University. The locality of the neotype, and thus the type locality of sakhalina, is the headwaters of the Kanchalan River (75 km west of Egvekinot), Chukotsky Autonomous Region. Calidris a. kistchinski (type locality Moroshechnaya River, western Kamchatka) is less black above and larger than actites and is more black dorsally with the edges of the back feathers more yellow than in arcticola and sakhalina. Calidris a. actites (type locality shore of Chayvo Bay, Sakhalin [Island]) differs from the other subspecies in having more feathers edged with black, especially on the crown, and in usually lacking white on the leading edge of the eighth primary. The rust colour of the back of five of the seven specimens available is paler than in kistchinski. Specimens of actites are lighter in weight, and are shorter in exposed culmen and wing chord than the other subspecies in this study. Two adult males (USNM 165045, 165046) from St Lawrence Island, Alaska, where pacifica breeds (Sauer & Urban 1964), and a female (UA 5615) from Attu Island, Alaska, are unlike arcticola and pacifica in having faint black streaks on their undertail coverts. The three specimens are within the range of variation in size for all western subspecies but actites. The moulting inner primaries of the two males, collected 13 July, suggest that the birds may have bred on St Lawrence Island; according to Greenwood (1983), birds from Siberia and Alaska moult while on the breeding grounds. However, some birds from northern Alaska migrate before completion of primary moult (Holmes 1966b, 1971). Because kistchinski and pacifica moult at the same time as reported by Holmes (1971) for birds from northern Alaska (P. S. Tomkovich, in litt.), some individuals of sakhalina may also migrate before moulting all of their primaries. Based on colouration and moult, the two males are most likely darker representatives of sakhalina; based on colouration of the plumage, the female collected 1 June is most similar to typical kistchinski. Although M. R. Browning 144 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) the three specimens cannot be positively identified to subspecies, they probably represent birds from the populations that breed in eastern Siberia. Other Palearctic taxa are known from St Lawrence Island (Fay & Cade 1959, Sealy et al. 1971), and from other islands off Alaska (e.g. Thompson & DeLong 1969, Byrd et al. 1974, Gibson 1981, Byrd & Day 1986), and from the nearby mainland (Kessel & Gibson 1976). Acknowledgements I thank P. Tomkovich, Zoological Museum, Moscow State University; V. Loskot, Zoological Institute, Academy of Sciences (ZIAS), Leningrad; American Museum of Natural History, New York; and D. D. Gibson, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, for the loan of critical specimens. Other specimens included those in the National Museum of Natural History (USNM), Washington DC. Appreciation is extended to the Natural History Library, Smithsonian Institution, for providing translations of two of the original descriptions. I thank C. Erard, Paris Museum, for searching for the type of sakhalina. I also thank P. Tomkovich and R. B. Clapp for their remarks on an earlier draft of the manuscript, and R. C. Banks and T. H. Fritts, who made several helpful comments on the present version. References: American Ornithologists’ Union 1957. Check-list of North American birds, 5th edn. American Ornithologists’ Union. Browning, M. R. 1977. Geographic variation in Dunlins, Calidris alpina, of North America. Canad. Field- Nat. 91: 391-393. Byrd, G. V. & Day, R. H. 1986. The avifauna of Buldir Island, Aleutian Islands, Alaska. Arctic 39: 109-118. Byrd, G. V., Gibson, D. D. & Johnson, D. L. 1974. The birds of Adak Island, Alaska. Condor 76: 288-300. Cramp, S. & Simmons, K. E. L. (eds) 1983. The Birds of the Western Palearctic. Vol. 3. Oxford Univ. Press. Fay, F. H. & Cade, T. J. 1959. An ecological analysis of the avifauna of St Lawrence Island, Alaska. Univ. Calif. Publ. Zool. 63: 73-150. Ferns, P. N. 1981. Identification, subspecific variation and sexing European Dunlins. Dutch Birding 3: 85-98. Gibson, D. D. 1981. Migrant birds at Shemya Island, Aleutian Islands, Alaska. Condor 83: 65-77. Greenwood, J. G. 1983. Post-nuptial primary moult in Dunlin Calidris alpina. Ibis 125: 223-228. Greenwood, J. G. 1984. Migration of Dunlin Calidris alpina: a worldwide overview. Ringing and Migration 5: 35-39. Greenwood, J. G. 1986. Geographical variation and taxonomy of the Dunlin Calidris alpina (L.). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 106: 43-56. Gromadzka, J. 1989. Breeding and wintering areas of Dunlin migration through southern Baltic. Ornis Scand. 20: 132-144. Hayman, P., Marchant, J. & Prater, T. 1986. Shorebirds an identification guide to the waders of the world. Croom Helm. Holmes, R. T. 1966a. Breeding ecology and annual cycle adaptations of the Red-backed Sandpiper (Calidris alpina) in northern Alaska. Condor 68: 3-46. Holmes, R. 'T. 1966b. Molt cycle of the Red-backed Sandpiper (Calidris alpina) in western North America. Auk 83: 517-533. Holmes, R. T. 1971. Latitudinal differences in the breeding and molt schedule of Alaskan Red-backed Sandpipers (Calidris alpina). Condor 73: 93-99. Johnsgard, P. A. 1981. The Plovers, Sandpipers, and Snipes of the World. Univ. Nebraska Press. Kenyon, K. W. & Brooks, J. W. 1960. Birds of Little Diomede Island, Alaska. Condor 62: 457-463. Kessel, B. & Gibson, D. D. 1976. Status and Distribution of Alaska Birds. Studies in Avian Biology no. 1, Cooper Ornithological Society. Kozlova, E. B. 1962. Fauna of the U.S.S.R.: Birds: Charadriuiformes: Limicolae. Vol. 2, Sec. 1, Pt. 3. (English translation, Israel Prog. Sci. Transl., Jerusalem.) M. Herremans et al. 145 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Krusenstern, I. F. 1814. Atlas zur Reise um die Welt unternommen auf Befehl seiner Kaiserlichen Majestat Alexander des Ersten auf den Schiffen Nadeshda und Neva unter dem Commando des Capitans von Krusenstern. St Petersburg. MacLean, S. F., Jr & Holmes, R. T. 1971. Bill lengths, wintering areas, and taxonomy of North American Dunlins, Calidris alpina. Auk 88: 893-901. Meininger, P. L. & van Swelm, N. D. 1989. Steltlopers in de Oosterschelde, biometrisch en ringonderzoek in voorjaar 1984 en 1985. Rijkswaterstaat Dienst Gefijdewateren nota GWAO-89.1009, Stichting Ornithologisch Station Voorn. Morrison, R. I. G. 1984. Migration systems of some new world shorebirds. Pp. 125-202 in J. Burger & B. L. Olla (eds), Shorebirds Migration and Foraging Behavior (Behavior Marine Animals, Vol. 6.) Plenum Press. Nechaev, V. A. 1978. [New data on distribution and biology of birds at Sakhalin Island.] Ornitologiya 14: 108-111. (In Russian.) Nechaev, V. A. & Tomkovich, P. S. 1987. [A new subspecies of the Dunlin, Calidris alpina litoralis ssp. n. (Charadriidae, Aves), from the Sakhalin Island.] Zool. Zhurnal 66: 1110-1113. (In Russian.) Nechaev, V. A. & Tomkovich, P. S. 1988. [A new name for Sakhalin Dunlin (Aves, Charadriidae).| Zool. Zhurnal 67(10): 1596. (In Russian.) Norton, D. W. 1971. Two Soviet recoveries of Dunlins banded at Pt. Barrow, Alaska. Auk 88: 927. Portenko, L. A. 1972. Birds of the Chukchi Peninsula and Wrangel Island. Vol. 1. Acad. Sci. U.S.S.R., Inst. Zool. (English translation, Smithsonian Inst. and Nat. Sci. Found.) Prater, A. J., Marchant, J. H. & Vuorinen, J. 1977. Guide to the Identification and Ageing of Holarctic Waders. Field Guide no. 17, British Trust for Ornithology. Sauer, E. G. F. & Urban, E. K. 1964. Bird notes from St Lawrence Island, Alaska. Bonn. Zool. Beitr. 15: 45-58. Sealy, S. G., Bedard, J., Fay, F. H. & Udvardy, M. D. F. 1971. New records and zoogeo- graphical notes on the birds of St Lawrence Island, Bering Sea. Condor 73: 322-336. Svetovidoy, A. N. 1981. The Pallas fish collection and the Zoographia Rosso-Asiatica: an historical account. Archives of Natural History 10: 45—64. Thompson, M. C. & DeLong, R. L. 1969. Birds new to North America and the Pribilof Islands, Alaska. Auk 86: 747-749. Tomkovich, P. S. 1986. [Geographical variability of the Dunlin in the Far East.] Byill. Mosk. Obshch. Ispyt. Prir. 9: 3-15. (In Russian.) Vaurie, C. 1965. The Birds of the Palearctic Fauna. Non-Passeriformes. H. F. and G. Witherby. Vieillot, L. J. P. 1816. Nouveau Dictionnaire d’ Histoire Naturelle. New ed. Vol. 3. Paris. Address: M. Ralph Browning, Biological Survey, National Ecology Research Center, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Museum of Natural History, Washington DC. 20560, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists Club 1991 Discovery of the nest of Humblot’s Flycatcher Humblotia flavirostris by M. Herremans, M. Louette & F. Stevens Received 28 November 1990 Humblot’s Flycatcher forms a monotypic genus, probably close to Muscicapa (Benson 1960). The species is confined to a few thousand hectares of mountain forest on the slopes of the Karthala volcano (Louette 1988), which dominates the southern half of Grand Comoro island. Although confiding and rather common, nothing is known as yet about the species’ breeding habits, despite the breeding grounds having been M. Herremans et al. 146 . Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) well explored on some occasions (1965, 1983, 1985) during the presumed breeding period (October-November). Benson (1960) speculated that the finding of a nest would be of particular interest in establishing the affinities of this peculiar bird. On 12 November 1989, when carrying out point-transect counts in the Karthala forest just north of M’Lima Manda (1050 m a.s.1.) on behalf of an ICBP bird inventory project, M.H. observed a pair of Humblotia with food. It turned out that he was standing right under an active nest. The surrounding habitat was a low, rather open type of pioneer woodland on the southern of the two lava flows to the north of M’Lima Mani. The canopy height was only about 12—15 m, and the nest was situated in the mid stratum. The nesting tree had a stem of about 15 cm diameter, was about 8 m high and had a crown with rather dense, stiff, leathery foliage. ‘The nest was in the upper branches, and hidden among the foliage. At least two young were begging. Food items brought to the nest were seen at close range on five occasions. Four of these were single, large centipedes (Chilopoda), and in the remaining case the bird carried two items, one of which was long-legged and presumably a mantis or large spider. ‘The spot was revisited on 17 December in order to collect the nest. No droppings or feather sheaths remained in it, making it questionable that the young fledged successfully. The nest was an untidy cup or bowl of mosses, lined on the inside with dry grasses, simply resting on (not attached to) some smaller branches of the tree-top (not a fork). The internal diameter of the cup was 5.5 cm and its depth 4 cm. Externally the nest was 7 cm deep, and its base was 15 cm long and 12 cm wide. It was collected and is now stored in the KMMA Museum, Tervuren, Belgium (nr. 90-01-A-1). Is there information for the evaluation of the affinities of Humblotia in the position of the nest, its simple shape or its constituent materials? ‘These features are rather diverse in African Muscicapa (Erard 1990), but among the species studied in Gabon, in its site and construction the nest of Humblotia comes close to that described for Muscicapa sethsmithi, also a forest species. Based on information on the nest alone, there is appar- ently no strong reason for sustaining the genus Humblotia apart from Muscicapa. Acknowledgements The authors’ birding activities on Grand Comoro were sponsored by the ICBP project 22/IKKM/3. D. Tonnoeyr is thanked for help and for putting on a brave face during the second strenuous walk to M’Lima Manda. References: Benson, C. W. 1960. The birds of the Comoro Islands: results of the BOU centenary Expedition 1958. Jbis 103B: 55-58. Erard, C. 1990. Ecologie et comportement des gobe-mouches (Aves: Muscicapinae, Platysteiri- nae, Monarchinae) du Nord-Est du Gabon. Vol. 2: Organisation sociale et écologie de la reproduction des Muscicapinae. Mém. Mus. natn. Hist. nat. (A) No. 146, Paris. Louette, M. 1988. Les oiseaux des Comores. Ann. Mus. r. Afr. centr., Serie In-8° No 255, Tervuren. Address for correspondence: Dr M. Louette, Koninklijk Museum Midden Afrika, 3080 Tervuren, Belgium. © British Ornithologists Club 1991 3. M. Cardoso da Silva & D.C. Oren 147 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) A new subspecies of Xiphocolaptes major (Vieillot) from Argentina by Fosé Maria Cardoso da Silva & David C. Oren Received 29 November 1990 Xiphocolaptes major (Vieillot) is a large dendrocolaptid (>90 g) with a distribution that includes Brazil in Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul, northern and eastern Bolivia, and Argentina from Jujuy to Cordoba and Santa Fe (Meyer de Schauensee 1970). There are three recognised subspecies (Peters 1951): X. m. remoratus Pinto, known only from the type locality, Fazenda Arica-mirim, on the banks of the lower rio Arica, Mato Grosso; X. m. castaneus Ridgway of Bolivia, southwestern Mato Grosso and northern Mato Grosso do Sul in Brazil, and northwestern Argentina in the Provinces of Jujuy and Salta, where it intergrades with the nominate subspecies; and X. m. major (Vieillot), from Paraguay and Argentina in Chaco, Cordoba, Estero, Formosa, Santa Fé and Santiago (Fig. 1). X.m.remoratus is similar to the nominate subspecies, having, however, “the pileum and mantle less light, brownish olivaceous (instead of greyish brown), the throat whitish only on the median portion, and not as light as the other, and the underparts less tinged with rusty”’ (Pinto 1945). X. m. castaneus differs from X.m. major by the “‘pileum decidedly darker, russet brown or dusky brown (instead of buffy brown); chestnut of upper parts on average deeper, and lower surface somewhat darker, more rusty cinnamon” (Hellmayr 1925). While reviewing specimens of X. major deposited at the American Museum of Natural History, New York, we found that a series of six specimens from the Province of Tucuman, Argentina, possess much lighter plumage colouration than specimens from nearby localities attributed to the nominate race. We propose that this population be known as Xiphocolaptes major estebani subsp. nov. Holotype. American Museum of Natural History, AMNH 524675, adult male collected at Tapia (26°36’S, 65°18’W), Tucuman, Agentina. Collected by L. Dinelli on 14 Sep 1902. Field Number 1847. Diagnosis. Colours in capitals with numbers in parentheses refer to Smithe (1975, 1981). Similar to X. m. major (Vieillot), differing by the plumage in general being much paler, with crown between Light Drab (119C) and Dark Drab (119B), instead of Antique Brown (37); back between Brussels Brown (121B) and Mikado Brown (121C), instead of Raw Sienna (136); feathers of the breast and belly with centres Clay Color (26) and borders Cinnamon (123A), instead of Raw Umber (123) and Antique Brown (37), respectively; tail Russet (34), instead of Warm Sepia (221A). J. M. Cardoso da Silva & D.C. Oren 148 ; Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Figure 1. Distribution of the subspecies of Xiphocolaptes major. ® =remoratus; A= castaneus, ® = major; @ =estebani,; V =intergrades between castaneus and major. Measurements of the holotype (in mm). Wing (‘flat’), 155.0; tail, 109.5; bill (from insertion to tip), 59.5; tarsus, 30.0. Paratypes.'Three males, AMNH 524676, 524677 and 524678, collected by L. Dinelli on 24 Oct 1901 (first two) and 19 Sep 1902 (last); and two females, AMNH 524679 collected by L. Dinelli on 24 Oct 1901, and AMNH = 524682 collected by S. Venturi on 8 Jul 1900, all from the type locality. Distribution. Known from the type locality and Tafi Viejo, Prov. ‘Tucuman, Argentina (apud Esteban 1948), and the surrounding region. Etymology. The subspecific name honours Argentine ornithologist Juan G. Esteban, who was the first to do a complete revision of the Dendrocolaptidae of his country (Esteban 1948). Comments. X.m. castaneus has plumage which is much more reddish than X.m. major and X.m. estebani. X.m.remoratus, based on the original description, is darker than the nominate subspecies (Pinto 1945) and, consequently, than X. m. estebant. The paratypes show uniformity in the diagnostic characters. Two females (AMNH 524679 and 524682) have very indistinct transverse black bars on the abdomen, these being almost absent in 524682. The other specimens all have well-marked abdominal bars. Comparative measurements of X. m. major, X.m. castaneus and the newly proposed subspecies are presented in Table 1. The observed differences in measurements were not statistically significant for any character, perhaps in part because of the small sample sizes. A single male (AMNH 524680), also labelled from the type locality and supposedly collected together with female paratype AMNH 524682 by Venturi, is indistinguishable from the nominate subspecies, while another male (AMNH 524681), collected by the same Venturi, labelled F. M. Cardoso da Silva & D.C. Oren 149 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) TABLE 1 Comparative measurements (in mm) of three races of Xiphocolaptes major. For samples of 5 or more, the first number is the mean, followed by the standard deviation in parentheses Wing Tail Bill ‘Tarsus X.m. major 733 150.8 (3.8) 107.4 (5.8) 56.7 (1.1) 30.3 (3.1) 12 9° 148.7 (4.2) 110.0 (3.6) 57.5 (1.9) 30.3 (2.2) X.m. castaneus 13 142.0 106.0 — 30.5 2 22 141.0, 142.0 103.0 (n=1) 52.0, 55.0 28.0, 30.5 X. m. estebant 533 153.2 (4.0) 109.9 (5.4) 58.2 (1.1) 30.7 (1.9) 2 29 149.0, 155.0 109.0 (n=1) 59.0, 61.5 30.5, 34.5 from ““Ocampo, Chaco”’ (Villa Ocampo is, in fact, in Santa Fé Province, according to Paynter 1985) is typical of estebani. ‘These two specimen labels most certainly were inadvertently exchanged. S. Venturi was an Italian resident in Argentina, whence he sent a bird skin collection of 1115 specimens for sale to the Rothschild Museum in Tring, England. The Venturi collection was made between 1898 and 1906 at diverse localities in the Provinces of Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, TTucuman and Jujuy (for details, see Hartert & Venturi 1908). Whether the accidental label exchange was made by Venturi or in Tring 1s unclear. Acknowledgements We are grateful to the staff of the ornithology section of the American Museum of Natural History, especially Mary LeCroy, George Barrowclough, and Francois Vuilleumier, for numerous courtesies extended during our visit to the collections under their care. References: Esteban, J. G. 1948. Contribucion al conocimiento de los dendrocolaptidos argentinos. Acta Zool. Lilloana 5: 325-436. Hartert, E. & Venturi, S. 1909. Notes sur les oiseaux de la République Argentine. Novit. Zool. 16: 11-267. Hellmayr, C. H. 1925. Catalogue of birds of the Americas and the adjacent islands. Part IV. Publ. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 13. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1970. A Guide to the Birds of South America. Livingston. Paynter, R. A., Jr. 1985. Ornithological Gazetteer of Argentina. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Peters, J. L. 1951. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 7. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Pinto, O. M. O. 1945. Duas formas novas no género Xiphocolaptes. Pap. Avuls. Dep. Zool. S. Paulo 5: 135-140. Smithe, F. B. 1975 (Part 1); 1981 (Part 2). Naturalist’s Color Guide. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., New York. Address: José M. Cardoso de Silva & David C. Oren, Depto. Zoologia, Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, C. P. 399, 66.040 Belém, PA, Brazil. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 R. P. Prys-Fones 150 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) ‘The occurrence of biannual primary moult in passerines by R. P. Prys-JFones Received 2 December 1990 The occurrence within individuals of biannual complete moults which include all the primary feathers appears to be an uncommon feature of passerine biology. In Table 1, I summarize those species for which I found positive, published information during research for a paper on the biannual primary moult of the Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus (Underhill et al., in press). A number of other species may also do so, at least in some individuals, but available evidence remains ambiguous. Examples include the Sedge Wren Cistothorus platensis, whose pre- nuptial moult is poorly understood but apparently may sometimes be complete, the Rufous-winged Sparrow Azmophila carpalis, whose pre- nuptial moult may on occasion approach being complete, and the Sharp- tailed Sparrow Ammodramus caudacutus, whose pre-nuptial moult is variable but often includes at least the outer primaries (Pyle et al. 1987). Pallas’s Grasshopper Warbler Locustella certhiola has been claimed to moult its primaries twice a year (Stresemann & Stresemann 1976), but apparently incorrectly (Svensson 1984), whereas the River Warbler L. fluviatilis moults its outer primaries directly following autumn mi- gration and then all its primaries prior to spring migration (Pearson & Backhurst 1983). Evidence of two discrete periods of primary moult each year in certain other sedentary passerines, e.g. the Seychelles Sunbird Nectarinia dussumieri (Greig-Smith 1980), the Seychelles Brush Warbler Acrocephalus sechellensis (Prys-Jones & Diamond 1984) and certain other warbler species (K. Baker, pers. comm.), requires further investigation before conclusions can be drawn regarding how frequently individual primaries are replaced. In addition, ambiguous statements regarding the occurrence of “‘two complete moults’’ may not infrequently be found, e.g. for the White-winged Triller Lalage sueuri (Smythies 1985). ‘The seven species in Table 1 comprise six separate families, long- distance migrants as well as residents, insectivores and omnivores, inhabitants of open country as well as dense cover, and forms which have both one and two breeding cycles per year. The Brown Shrike Lantus cristatus is very closely related to both the Red-backed Shrike L. collurio and the Isabelline Shrike L. isabellinus, the whole forming one ‘““complicated, marginal superspecies’? (Voous 1979), which in turn is closely related to the Thick-billed Shrike (Harrison 1982). Despite their close phylogenetic, ecological and migratory similarities, the moults of members of the superspecies diverge strikingly. Both the Red-backed Shrike and the Isabelline Shrike only have one moult of their primaries in the year (Stresemann & Stresemann 1972a, Voous 1979). In the Red- backed Shrike, the flight feathers are renewed only in the winter quarters, whereas different populations of the Isabelline Shrike may moult their R. P. Prys-Fones 151 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) TABLE 1 Passerine species known to undergo two complete primary moults in a year Family Species Authority Campephagidae Ashy Minivet Stresemann & Stresemann 1972b Pericrocotus divaricatus Troglodytidae Marsh Wren Kale 1966, Pyle et al. 1987 Cistothorus palustris' Sylviidae Willow Warber Ticehurst 1938, Phylloscopus trochilus Underhill et al. (in press) Laniidae Brown Shrike Medway 1970, Lantus cristatus Stresemann & Stresemann 1971 Laniidae Thick-billed Shrike Stresemann & Stresemann 1971 Lanius tigrinus Emberizidae Rufous-crowned Sparrow Miller 1961, King 1976 Zonotrichia capensis* Icteridae ‘ Bobolink Pyle et al. 1987 Dolichonyx oryzivorus ‘Possibly not in all subspecies. ?Only equatorial populations. flight feathers after the breeding cycle or delay until reaching the winter quarters. Complications in primary moult strategy among closely related forms are still more apparent in the Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia capensis species complex, in which the moulting patterns of the various races and populations “exhibit an almost bewildering diversity’’ (King 1976). All populations have a complete post-nuptial moult following the main nesting season, but only equatorial resident populations additionally have a second complete moult; other sub-equatorial and higher latitude populations supplement their complete moult by additional partial moult of greatly varying degree and timing. Kale (1966) concluded that ‘“‘the evolution of dissimilar moulting patterns in ecologically similar and phylogenetically related species is intriguing”’. This still remains the case, with more subtle ecological, behavioural and/or physiological factors than those mentioned above apparently being involved. Presumably a key factor relates to the rate at which the primaries are worn away, regardless of whether this is caused by dense vegetation, long-distance migration or structurally weak com- position. A pointer in this direction is provided by comparison of the Willow Warbler with the Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis. Over 50 years ago, Ticehurst (1938) drew attention to the fact that the Arctic Warbler, with a migration about equally as long as the Willow Warbler, has only a single annual primary moult, in winter, whereas the Willow Warbler has two. Despite this, adult Arctic Warblers are known to have their remiges in good condition as they start their autumn migration, despite having worn them through both spring migration and breeding (Svensson 1984), J. M. Cardoso da Silva S72 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) References: Greig-Smith, P. W. 1980. Foraging, seasonality and nesting of Seychelles Sunbirds Nectarinia dussumiert. Ibis 122: 307-321. Harrison, C. 1982. An Atlas of the Birds of the Western Palaearctic. Collins. Kale, H. W. 1966. Plumages and molts in the Long-billed Marsh Wren. Auk 83: 140-141. King, J. R. 1976. ‘The annual cycle and its control in subequatorial Rufous-collared Sparrows. Proc. Int. Orn. Congr. 16: 310-321. Medway, Lord 1970. A ringing study of the migratory Brown Shrike in west Malaysia. [bis 112: 184-198. Miller, A. H. 1961. Molt cycles in equatorial Andean sparrows. Condor 63: 143-161. Pearson, D. J. & Backhurst, G. C. 1983. Moult in the River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis. Ringing & Migration 4: 227-230. Prys-Jones, R. P. & Diamond, A. W. 1984. Ecology of the land birds on the granitic and coralline islands of the Seychelles, with particular reference to Cousin Island and Aldabra Atoll. Pp. 529-558 im D. K. Stoddart (ed.), Biogeography and Ecology of the Seychelles Islands. Dr W. Junk, The Hague. Pyle, P., Howell, S. N. G., Yunick, R. P. & Desante, D. F. 1987. Identification Guide to North American Passerines. Slate Creek Press, Bolinas. Smythies, B. E. 1985. Cuckoo-shrike. Pp. 126-127 in B. Campbell & E. Lack (eds), A Dictionary of Birds. T. & A. D. Poyser, Calton. Stresemann, E. & Stresemann, V. 1971. Die postnuptiale und die praenuptiale Vollmauser der asiatischen Wurger Lanius tigrinus und L. cristatus. J. Orn. 112: 373-395. Stresemann, E. & Stresemann, V. 1972a. Ueber die Mauser in die Gruppe Lanius isabellinus. . Orn. 113: 60-75. Stresemann, E. & Stresemann, V.1972b. Die postnuptiale und die praenuptiale Vollmauser von Pericrocotus divaricatus Raffles. J. Orn. 113: 435-439. Stresemann, E. & Stresemann, V. 1976. Problems resulting from the discontinuous distri- bution of Muscicapa latirostris Raffles. 7. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 71 (1974): 445-451. Svensson, L. 1984. Identification Guide to European Passerines, 3rd edn. Lars Svensson, Stockholm. Ticehurst, C. B. 1938. A Systematic Review of the Genus Phylloscopus (Willow-warblers or Leaf-warblers).' Trustees of the British Museum. Underhill, L. G., Prys-Jones, R. P., Dowsett, R. J., Herroelen, P., Johnson, D. N., Lawn, M.R., Norman, S. C., Pearson, D. J. & Tree, A. J. (in press). The biannual primary moult of Willow Warblers Phylloscopus trochilus in Europe and Africa. Ibis. Voous, K. H. 1979. Capricious taxonomic history of Isabelline Shrike. Brit. Birds 72: 573-578. Address: Dr R. P. Prys-Jones, British Trust for Ornithology, The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, Thetford, Norfolk [P24 2PU, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Geographical variation in the Saffron-billed Sparrow Arremon flavirostris by fosé Maria Cardoso da Silva Received 3 December 1990 The Saffron-billed Sparrow Arremon flavirostris is a 30 g sparrow of forest undergrowth, which occurs in the southern half of Brazil, eastern Bolivia, Paraguay and northern Argentina (Meyer de Schauensee 1982). It is characterized by a mostly orange-yellow bill with a black ridge, black head with a barely suggested grey stripe along the median portion of the pileum, white superciliary that is variable in extension, black auriculars, grey or olive-green back, and mostly white underparts with a black pectoral band. F. M. Cardoso da Silva 153 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) | ene ——————-| 1000km Figure 1. Distribution of Arremon flavirostris: V, A. f. flavirostris; ®, A. f. polionotus; BA. f. dorbignii. The last comprehensive review of the geographical variation of A. flavirostris was carried out by Hellmayr (1938), who recognized two groups of subspecies: the green-backed group (flavirostris and dorbignit) and the grey-backed group (polionotus and devillt). The taxonomy of the green-backed group is well resolved. A. f. flavirostris Swainson, 1837 is characterized by white superciliaries which start just above the eye. It is found in central-eastern Brazil (Fig. 1), in the states of Bahia, Minas Gerais, northeastern Sao Paulo, southeastern Goias, southeastern Mato Grosso do Sul (Hellmayr 1938, Pinto 1944, Paynter 1970) and eastern Parana (F. C. Straube). A. f. dorbignii Sclater, 1856 is very similar to A. f. flavirostris, but differs in that its white super- ciliaries are longer, beginning near base of the bill. It is found (Fig. 1) from Bolivia (La Paz, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz) to Argentina in Jujuy, Tucuman and Catamarca (Hellmayr 1938, Paynter 1970). J. M. Cardoso da Silva 154 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) The geographical ranges and diagnostic characters of the subspecies of the grey-backed group have been disputed. A. f. polionotus Bonaparte, 1851 was described from a specimen collected in Corrientes, Argentina. The type locality of A. f. devilli Des Murs, 1856 has not yet been desig- nated. The label of the holotype, collected by Castelnau’s expedition to South America, records “‘Province of Goyas’’ (Hellmayr 1938). This is a mistake, because all collections subsequently made in Goias have recorded only A. f. flavirostris (Pinto 1936, Hellmayr 1938, Silva 1989). Hellmayr (1938) stated that polionotus occurs in Paraguay, Argentina (Formosa, Chaco, Misiones and Corrientes) and western Parana, while devilli occurs in western Sao Paulo, Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso du Sul and Chiquitos, Bolivia. Pinto (1944) disagreed with this statement and classified the specimens from Mato Grosso as polionotus, limiting the distribution of devilli to western Sao Paulo. These discrepancies are the result of the lack of consistent diagnostic characters to distinguish the two subspecies. Both subspecies have short superciliaries similar to A. f. flavirostris. Hellmayr (1938) stated that devilli is ‘Very similar to A. f. polionotus, but upper parts paler gray witha slight olivaceous suffusion, and black jugular narrower’’. However, a few paragraphs later he qualifies this statement: ‘“‘While the narrow jugular band (from three to seven millimeters wide) serves to distinguish this form from polionotus, the coloration of the back is not an absolutely constant feature...’’. To resolve this question, I have examined 55 specimens of the two subspecies deposited at the American Museum of Natural History. I agree with Hellmayr that colouration of the back is not a consistent differ- ence between these populations of Arremon flavirostris. | measured the width of the pectoral band in 33 males of ‘polionotus’ and 19 males of ‘devilli’. In polionotus the range of this measurement was 6.0—11.0 mm (median = 8.2; s.d.=1.6), while in devilli it was 5.0-10.0 mm (median = 6.9; s.d.=1.2). The difference in the range of measurements for devilli recorded by me and by Hellmayr may be due to differences in skin prep- aration between the series he examined and those in AMNH. While the means in my data for pectoral band width are significantly different (Student’s t= 3.07; df =49; P< 0.001), the measurement overlap is exten- sive and it is impossible to allocate individual specimens to either sub- species. Based on these observations, I propose that devilli be synonymized with polionotus, which has priority. The three subspecies of A. flavirostris are well differentiated. In addition, no hybridization zone between these populations is known. Thus, they could be considered distinct species, whether the phylogenetic species concept (Cracraft 1983, McKitrick & Zink 1988) or the biological species concept (Mayr 1963) is utilized. However, I prefer to await new specimens from possible intergradation zones before proposing this change of rank. In general, flavirostris and dorbignii are the most similar to one another, but they are geographically separated by the very dis- tinct polionotus (Fig. 1). This pattern is similar to cases of “‘leapfrog”’ distribution in Andean birds (Remsen 1984). To generate a hypothesis on the relationships between the subspecies of A. flavirostris, | performed a cladistic analysis (Wiley 1981) of the two F. M. Cardoso da Silva 155 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) apparently informative plumage characters. A. t. taciturnus, the nearest hypothesized relative (Sick 1986), was used as the out-group. The olive-green back colouration that is shared by flavirostris and dorbignii can be considered plesiomorphic because it is encountered in A. t. taciturnus and is widespread in Arremon. Grey back colouration is unique in this genus and is here interpreted as an autapomorphy of polionotus. The extension of the white superciliaries is another character useful for phylogenetic inference. Long white superciliaries extending very nearly to the base of the bill occur in the out-group, and therefore can be considered plesiomorphic. Short white superciliaries are therefore interpreted here as a synapomorphy of flavirostris and polionotus. Based on these two characters, Hellmayr’s (1938) hypothesis on the relationships within A. flavirostris superspecies is invalid, because the character taken to be a phylogenetic indicator (olive-green back) for proximity between flavirostris and dorbignii is a plesiomorphy. On the other hand, flavirostris and polionotus share a synapomorphy (short while superciliaries), supporting the hypothesis that both are nearer to one another than either is to dorbigniz. This preliminary analysis supports the hypothesis that the leapfrog pattern of geographical variation of plumage colouration in A. flavirostris was produced by the retention of a primitive character by geographically extreme taxa (flavirostris and dorbigni1) with a more rapid phenotypic differentiation in the central taxon (polionotus). Acknowledgements I thank D. C. Oren, F. C. Novaes, S. Ferrari, R. O. Prum and D. W. Snow who have provided useful comments and helped at various stages of this study. I am also grateful to G. Barrowclough and M. LeCroy for giving me all facilities in examining specimens in AMNH. Financial support came principally from WWEFEF-USA, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico and The Frank M. Chapman Memorial Fund. References: Cracraft, J. 1983. Species concepts and speciation analysis. Current Ornithology 1: 159-187. Hellmayr, C. H. 1938. Catalogue of birds of the Americas and the adjacent islands. Part XI. Publ. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 13. Mayr, E. 1963. Animal Species and Evolution. Harvard Univ. Press. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1982. A Guide to the Birds of South America. Livingston. McKitrick, M. C. & Zink, R. 1988. Species concepts in ornithology. Condor 90: 1-14. Paynter, R. A., Jr. 1970. Family Emberizidae. In R. A. Paynter, Jr & R. W. Storer (eds). Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 13. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Pinto, O. M. O. 1936. Contribuig¢ao a ornitologia de Goyaz. Rev. Mus. Paulista 20: 1-171. Pinto, O. M. O. 1944. Catdlogo das Aves do Brasil e Lista dos Exemplares Existentes na Colegao do Departamento de Zoologia. Pt. 2. Sao Paulo. Remsen, J. V., Jr 1984. High incidence of “‘leapfrog’’ pattern of geographic variation in Andean birds: implications for the speciation process. Science 224: 171-173. Sick, H. 1985. Ornitologia Brasileira: uma Introdugao. Ed. Universidade de Brasilia. Silva, J. M. C. da 1989. An4lise biogeografica da avifauna de florestas do interfluvio Araguaia-Sao Francisco. MSc Dissertation, Universidade de Brasilia. Wiley, E.O. 1981. Phylogenetics. The theory and practice of phylogenetic systematics. J. Wiley & Sons, New York. Address: J. M. C. da Silva, Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, Departamento de Zoologia, C. P. 399, 66040 Belém, Para, Brazil. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 C. A. Peres S A. Whittaker 156 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Annotated checklist of the bird species of the upper Rio Urucu, Amazonas, Brazil by Carlos A. Peres S Andrew Whittaker Received 4 December 1990 Few surveys of avian communities in Brazilian Amazonia have been undertaken. Access to surveyed sites has usually been made possible by rivers or roads. Anthropogenic changes at these sites, such as habitat disturbance, hunting, or both, then tend to obscure the composition and structure of pristine avifaunas. Moreover, accessible sites with little or no habitat disturbance usually consist of black-water (igap0) or white-water (varzea) flood-plain forests because logistical problems become severe away from navigable rivers. Recent studies in lowland Amazonia, however, demonstrate the per- vasive influence of habitat selection in birds (e.g. Terborgh et al. 1984, 1990). Flood-plain communities are thus likely to differ sharply from those 1n the more remote upland (terra firme) forest, particularly in areas far removed from large rivers and tributaries. Factors which help explain the wholesale dichotomy between these two major Amazonian forest types include the lack of hydroperiodicity and seasonal influx of nutrients into terra firme forest, as well as a sharp decrease in the level of habitat diversity the greater the distance from large rivers. Here we report on the results of an 18-month survey of an entirely undisturbed, non-hunted terra firme forest site near the upper Urucu river, Tefe, Amazonas (4°50’S, 65°16’W), representing to date one of the few avian surveys in western Brazilian Amazonia. Study site and methods The Urucu site hes peripheral to an oil field recently developed by the Brazilian oil company, Petrobras. This capital-intensive operation has to date minimized forest disturbance through heavy use of aircraft transpor- tation (Peres 1988, 1990a). During the study period, access to drilling rigs was restricted to helicopters or small aeroplanes controlled by the com- pany. Both Indians and colonists had been and remained conspicuously absent from this area. Thus selective logging, slash-and-burn agricul- ture, rubber-tapping of Hevea trees and subsistence hunting had never taken place in the study area. The study area of 800 ha was located within a drilling polygon, and consisted primarily of undisturbed terra firme forest, between 60 and 72 m above sea-level (Fig. 1). Anthropogenic disturbance was restricted to two 3-ha seismic clearings. Annual rainfall was 3256+589 mm (n=2 years), only 9% of which fell between July and September, the three driest months of the year. Trees > 10 cm in diameter had a mean density of 723 individuals per hectare (n=5 ha), and treefall gaps were relatively uncommon (Peres, unpubl. data). A single meandering perennial stream cut through the study area, resulting in low levels of natural disturbance. C. A. Peres S A. Whittaker 157 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) CI SOUTH AMERICA STUDY AREA ¢ (4950'S 65°16'w) \ Figure 1. Location of the survey site on the upper Rio Urucu, Amazonas, Brazil. Shaded area represents the terra firme plot where 94% of the 365 species listed were recorded. Fine lines indicate perennial forest streams. A number of smaller rain-fed streams flowed into this perennial creek, but dried out during the dry season. Sudden rises in the stream water- level caused temporary floods following heavy storms (>100mm per day), particularly in the wet season. This phenomenon, locally known as repiquete, generated and maintained a sparser understorey, higher density of lianas, higher density of non-arborescent palms, overall lower density of trees, and an average lower canopy (Peres, unpubl. data). Habitat types Vegetation structure was quantified within two 1-ha floristic plots and twelve 0.25-ha plots, and along 4.9 km of transects within the study area. We also examined a topographic map of this area, defined by 5-m contour C. A. Peres & A. Whittaker 158 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) lines, which was generated by a seismic survey. The following forest habitat types emerged from this floristic and topographic analysis: (1) High forest. This dominant vegetation type covered 93% of the study area, and consisted of tall (38-45 m), undisturbed forest on rolling hills differing in heights by up to 18 m. Emergents of 45—55 m were not uncommon and the understorey was relatively sparse. (2) Creekside forest. This forest type ran along a perennial black-water stream, with a width ranging between 1 and 7m. Its water level rose sharply during the first half of each year when it often spilled over adjacent forest levees following heavy rainstorms. (3) Forest edge. This consisted largely of thick second-growth around two 3-ha man-made clearings and along a small internal road-network within the Urucu drilling polygon. Seismic clearings were originally created by chain-saws, and then left to regenerate. Roads were cut by bulldozers, and incidental damage caused by the treefall ‘domino-effect’ was considerable within a strip of 15 m on each side of the road. Clearings and roadsides offered satisfactory conditions for observing forest-edge canopy species, which were otherwise rarely sighted. (4) Igapo forest. This habitat did not occur in the actual study area, but 4km from it, running along both sides of the Urucu river. The igapo forest was flooded for 3—4 months each year, and had a strip-width of 50—250 m depending on local topography and the river water level, which fluctuated considerably throughout the year. Several bird species, which appeared not to occur 1n unflooded forest, were documented in this forest type during infrequent canoe trips and dry-season transect walks. The present list is however biased against igapo and riverine species as an artifact of reduced sampling effort along the river. Although forest types (1), (2) and (3) represented 98% of the study area, other minor habitats, mostly open or scrubby, were important to a number of bird species. These additional habitats will be briefly described in the Appendix codes. Avian survey The list here compiled began with a 3-week transect census of the Urucu primates conducted by CAP in April 1987 (Peres 1987, 1990a), only 5 months after Petrobras began operating in the area. The other half of all species listed were recorded during a continuous study period between February 1988 and September 1989. Records were based primarily on intensive observations, and to a lesser extent mist-netting and vocalizations, live or recorded. More than 3240 h of field time were logged in 32 observer-months. A total of 252 bird species (69% of the overall total) were recorded by positive sightings, almost always con- firmed by subsequent sightings and vocal cues. Another 108 (29.6%) species were recorded by captures, mostly by mist-nets. Only 5 species (1.4°%) were identified on the basis of voice alone. We faced few ‘difficult’ species-identifications; thus collection of specimens was not anormal part of our mist-netting protocol. We accumulated a total of 1964 mist-net hours, using mist-net lines of 5, 16 and 30 nets (2.5 x 12m, 14inch mesh) stretched along 1.5-m wide transects cutting through all vegetation types. Mist-nets targeted C. A. Peres S A. Whittaker 159 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) to habitat-specialists were placed alone, or in pairs, in a particular site (e.g. treefall gaps, near forest streams). Netted birds were identified using field guides applicable to this region (e.g. Hilty & Brown 1986, Meyer de Schauensee & Phelps 1978, Ridgely & Tudor 1989, Frisch 1981, Dunning 1982). Birds were then photographed, measured, weighed, banded and released on site. Both understorey and midstorey flocks were censused regularly from the ground at least once monthly. Canopy flocks were observed from a canopy platform placed at 42 m above ground in the crown of a tall emergent tree in high forest, along road-side forest edge, and from two seismic clearings. In addition toa refined trail-grid covering the study area, we also used a 5-km transect cutting farther inland from the Urucu Riven M. Cohn-Haft, who visited the site, and one of us (AW) had had very wide previous experience with bird vocalizations elsewhere in central Amazonia and could distinguish voices of most cryptic or canopy species. Nearly one half of the species listed were also recorded during a 3-week survey conducted in May 1987 in another terra firme site named Igarape Agu (4°30'S, 64°29’W), located 110 km downriver from the upper Urucu site. These species are indicated in the Appendix if they were not recorded in the main survey site (see Notes on species list). Results The checklist A total of 365 bird species were recorded in the upper Urucu basin, mostly within the actual study area (see Appendix). A minimum of 226 species (61.9%) co-existed microsympatrically in the predominant habi- tat type—high forest—representing a very high level of species-packing. The remaining 139 species occurred in one or more of the other habitats. Nomenclature and sequence of families follow Morony et al. (1975), but we follow Meyer de Schauensee (1966) for the Furnariidae, and Traylor (1980) for the Tyrannidae, Pipridae and Cotingidae. Tityras and becards are listed in the Cotingidae. Noteworthy records Here we highlight important records for Neotropical ornithology, pri- marily in terms of species distributions. Several species recorded in the upper Urucu were not previously known from this part of Amazonia. Important records in terms of geographic locality are of two types: those outside a species’ range, thus defined as actual range extensions (REx), and those inside a species’ range (WR), but bridging large gaps within a poorly known distribution. One species, a puffbird, could not be easily identified and is described on the basis of two prolonged sightings. Many of these bridging records are not very surprising since this site stands almost alone in a large, poorly-known region south of the Amazon and west of the Purus river, covering a small area between regions with relatively well documented avifaunas. In addition, we provide some additional notes on the curious rarity of certain game species, or on species which were presumed to be recent colonizers of the newly created scrubby and open habitats. C. A. Peres & A. Whittaker 160 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Unidentified species. One of the 365 species recorded, a pufftbird, presented us with a serious identification problem: it had neither been described nor illustrated in any of the reference guides. Unfortunately, we were unable to collect voucher specimens of this species. A detailed description was however recorded by CAP as follows. The two individuals seen, undoubtedly belonging to the genus Nystalus, were overall similar to the Barred Puffbird N. striolatus. Fine black streaks, rather than bars, were however obvious on the rufous crown, buffy-yellow nuchal collar, sides of face and upper breast, as well as on the sharply contrasting white underparts. Black streaks were also visible on the back, but the undertail was finely barred black. The chin and surrounding mouth parts were white, and the iris and bill yellowish. On one occasion, 10 July 1989, what appeared to be a heterosexual pair perched motionless for 15 minutes on terminal overhanging twigs 2m above a 4-m wide open-water forest stream. This pair had come from, and subsequently flew into, vine-tangle thickets bordering this perennial stream. Range extensions. Cases of significant range extensions were recorded for seven species, some of which were previously known only from Manaus, the Guianan shield, or western Amazonia. Following, we briefly mention each of these species. FIERY TOPAZ Topaza pyra Previously known from northwestern Brazil (upper Rio Negro), south- eastern Venezuela, eastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador and southeastern Peru (Hilty & Brown 1986). One specimen, probably a subadult male, was collected on 30 July 1989 (CAP) whilst it was perched over a 3-m wide forest stream, | m above open water. This individual and a conspecific were observed flycatching over the stream for periods of approximately 1 minute between consecutive resting bouts. LANCEOLATED MONKLET Micromonacha lanceolata Its Brazilian Amazonian range is thought to be limited to the upper Jurua river. One individual was sighted and photographed (CAP) while it perched quietly at 3 m above ground in dense high forest. BROWN-BANDED PUFFBIRD Notharchus ordit One individual of this northern Amazonian and Venezuelan species was observed (CAP) whilst it was perched some 30 m above ground ona detached, roadside snag. This species’ range, however, had already been extended southwestwards to northwestern Bolivia (Parker & Remsen 1987). RUFOUS-WINGED ANTWREN Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus Its nearest previously known localities in Brazilian Amazonia are along the Rio Jari and south of the Amazon east to Marajo Island. One pair was observed (CAP) from a canopy platform whilst foraging with a mixed- species flock. GUIANAN GNATCATCHER Polioptila guianensis Its nearest previously known localities are near Manaus (AW, pers. obs.; M. Cohn-Haft, pers. comm.) and in Rondonia (D. Stotz, pers. C. A. Peres & A. Whittaker 161 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) comm.). This species, originally thought to be restricted to the Guianas and southwestern Venezuela, was regularly sighted in the canopy accompanying mixed-species flocks. BLUE-BACKED TANAGER C'yanicterus cyanicterus Previously known from the Guianas and Venezuela (Isler & Isler 1987), and more recently from one site north of Manaus, Brazil (M. Cohn-Haft, pers. comm.). This is to our knowledge the first record south of the Amazon. Groups of 2—5 individuals were sighted 3 times (CAP, AW) with canopy mixed-species flocks. YELLOW-GREEN GROSBEAK Caryothraustes canadensis Occasionally sighted in the upper canopy with mixed-species flocks. This record expands the species’ range westwards, since its nearest known localities are on the lower Rio Negro and Rio Madeira (Ridgely & Tudor 1989). Range reinforcements. This survey provided geographically intermedi- ate records, or small-scale range extensions, for 9 other species with very spotty records, but likely to occur in this part of central Amazonia. BANK SWALLOW Riparia riparia The spotty localities in its winter range are strengthened by the record in the Urucu, where flocks in flight were sighted (CAP) several times from large clearings and river margins. WHITE-THIGHED SWALLOW WNeochelidon tibialis Previously not known ina wide band of forest along the central Amazon valley, but known to occur 160 km north of the upper Urucu in the lower Tefe river (Johns, in press). This year-round resident in the Urucu was particularly conspicuous during crepuscular flights along open forest streams in groups of up to 12 individuals. GREY-CHEEKED THRUSH Catharus minimus The winter range of this boreal species is extended to the Urucu from southern Venezuela, Guyana, Colombia, and parts of western Brazilian Amazonia, where it is a non-breeding visitor. One individual was observed on 5 May 1989 (CAP) perched in the understorey of high forest. RED-BILLED PIED TANAGER Lamprospiza melanoleuca It was not known to occur in western Brazilian Amazonia west of the Purus and Negro rivers (e.g. Willis 1977). Common in groups of 2-5, often with mixed-species flocks in the canopy. MAGPIE TANAGER Cissopis leveriana Previously not known for a broad region north and south of the Amazon river (Isler & Isler 1987). Vocally conspicuous groups of 3—5 were often seen in forest edge, usually in multi-species flocks. YELLOW-BACKED TANAGER Hemithraupis flavicollis Very spotty records in central Amazonia, but known to occur near Manaus and in northern Mato-Grosso. In the Urucu, it was a consistent member of mixed-species flocks in the canopy. C. A. Peres S A. Whittaker 162 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(3) PARADISE TANAGER Tangara chilensis One of the most common tanagers in the Urucu, apparently function- ing as a nuclear species in mixed-species canopy flocks. It is known from peripheral parts of Amazonia, but records are patchy 400 km north and south of the central Amazon. Nearest known localities are near Manaus (Willis 1977) and on the lower Tefé river (Johns, in press). BANANAQUIT Coereba flaveola This species is thought to be absent from much of west-central Amazonia (Ridgely & Tudor 1989). It was rare or absent in undisturbed terra firme forest in the study plot, but was sighted in small agricultural mosaics near the Urucu river. SWALLOW-TANAGER Tersina viridis Thought to be absent from most of central Amazonia (Ridgely & Tudor 1989). Monospecific groups of up to 8 individuals were seen in the forest edge canopy (18 Jan—23 Feb 1989). It was also common at one site near Carauari on the west bank of the Jurua river (15 Dec 1988, CAP). Pioneer species. ‘The upper Urucu is at least 150 km away from the nearest extensive patches of man-disturbed habitats within terra firme forest. The patches of upland forest edge, second-growth and open habi- tats, created since late 1986 by both seismic and drilling clearings, are thus isolated and recently-formed islands of disturbed habitat, available for colonization. The following species are now resident, and can be safely assumed to be recent colonists: Ramphocelus carbo, Columbina talpacott, Oryzoborus angolensis, Sporophila bouvronides, Sporophila lineola. A few migratory species, such as Tringa solitaria, currently use high-ground open habitats which were nonexistent as recently as early 1988. The greater density of dead trees, which resulted from damming of high-forest streams by roads, has increased the availability of nesting and foraging sites for certain woodpeckers using borders with scattered trees such as Yellow-tufted Woodpeckers Melanerpes cruentatus and Lineated Woodpeckers Dryocopus lineatus. These species also appeared to have become more common in recent years. Game species. Because this site had not been subject to hunting, some large game birds, which tend to be absent or rare in areas where man regularly hunts, were relatively common in the Urucu (Peres 1990b). ‘Thus we can safely assume that the low density of some other game species was not an artifact of hunting. For instance, Razor-billed Curassows Crax mitu were rarely observed, or heard calling, even by two experienced curassow-hunters, perhaps because of the very low availability of residual fruits on the ground, particularly in the dry season (Peres, unpubl. data). Groups of Pale-winged Trumpeters Psophia leucoptera and Spix’s Guans Penelope jacquacu were considerably more common, but both of these species’ diets were heavily subsidized by items other than fruitfall (Peres, unpubl. data). Variable Chachalacas Ortalis motmot were also very rare, rarely vocal, and apparently transient, probably because their preferred second-growth and riparian habitats were rare in the Urucu. C. A. Peres & A. Whittaker 163 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Tinamous were relatively common, particularly along the main creek. ‘Tinamou-traps (arapucas) set within igapo forest captured mostly Grey Tinamus tao and Cinereous Tinamous Crypturellus cinereus. Other tinamou species sighted previously were confirmed by voice. Other avian surveys The nearest locality to the Urucu where a bird survey of any kind has been conducted is Ponta da Castanha (Johns, in press) on the Tefeé river, 160 km north of our site. At this site forest disturbance such as selective logging and shifting agriculture, coupled with proximity to a large river, has diversified avian habitats. However, only 266 species were detected at the Tefeé site, probably because little mist-netting was undertaken. Stotz & Bierregaard (in prep.) and Stotz (unpubl. data) have conducted com- prehensive surveys of the avifaunas north of Manaus and on the Rio Ji-Parana, Rondonia (9°44’S, 61°53’W), respectively. The Urucu site lies roughly half-way between these two localities. Many more detailed avian inventories have been carried out in Colombian, Peruvian and Bolivian Amazonia (e.g. Hilty & Brown 1986, Terborgh et al. 1984, Parker & Remsen 1987, British Ornithologists’ Union Colombia expedition). We thus hope that the Urucu survey will help to cover a small portion of the immense gap in our knowledge of avian distributions in west-central Brazilian Amazonia, particularly in large stretches of undisturbed forests deep within remote interfluvial regions. Acknowledgements This survey was conducted as part of World Wildlife Fund—US project 6199 directed and carried out by CAP. We are indebted to Petrobras, the Brazilian oil company, for their local support in the Urucu. Our very special thanks to Mario Cohn-Haft, who detected and identified many of the species in the checklist. We also thank A. Carkeek, R. Nonato, N. Whittaker, K. Garcia-Anton and B. Day for help with fieldwork, and Rob Bierregaard, Ted Parker and Martin Kelsey for valuable discussions on the list. Dr D. Snow reviewed the manuscript. AW is a participant in the Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project financed by WWF-US and Smithsonian Institution. A grant from the Brazilian Science Council (CNPq) financed CAP’s studies at Cambridge University. References: Dunning, J. S. 1982. South American Land Birds. Harrowood Books, Newton Square, Pa. Frisch, J. D. 1981. Aves Brasileiras. Vol. 1. Dalgas-Ecoltec, Sao Paulo. Hilty, S. L. & Brown, W. L. 1986. A Guide to the Birds of Colombia. Princeton Univ. Press. Isler, M. L. & Isler, P. R. 1987. The Tanagers: Natural History, Distribution, and Identification. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, D.C. Johns, A. D. in press. Responses of Amazonian rain forest birds to habitat modification. F. Trop. Ecol. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1966. The Species of Birds of South America with their Distribution. Livingston Publ. Co., Narberth, Pa. Meyer de Schauensee, R. & Phelps, W. H., Jr. 1978. A Guide to the Birds of Venezuela. Princeton Univ. Press. Morony, J. J., Bock, W. J. & Farrand, J., Jr. 1975. Reference List of the Birds of the World. American Museum of Natural History, New York. Parker, T. A., II] & Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1987. Fifty-two Amazonian bird species new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. CL 107: 94-107. Peres, C. A. 1987. Primate community structure in western Amazonia. Unpubl. Report to WWE-US, Washington, D.C. Peres, C. A. 1988. Oil in the Amazon: good news or bad news? Primate Eye 34: 12-14. Peres, C. A. 1990a. Primate conservation and oil extraction in Brazilian Amazonia. Primate Eye 40: 16-20. C.A. Peres S A. Whittaker 164 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Peres, C. A. 1990b. Effects of hunting on western Amazonian primate communities. Biol. Conserv. 54: 47-59. Ridgely, R.S. & Tudor, G. 1989. The Birds of South America. Vol. 1. The Oscine Passerines. Oxford Univ. Press. Stotz, D. F. & Bierregaard, R. O., Jr. The birds of the Fazendas Porto Alegre, Dimona and Esteio. In prep. Terborgh, J. W., Fitzpatrick, J. W. & Emmons, L. 1984. Annotated checklist of bird and mammals species of Cocha Cashu Biological Station, Manu National Park, Peru. Fieldiana (Zoology) 21: 1-29. Terborgh, J. W., Robinson, S. K., Parker, T. A., III, Munn, C. A. & Pierpoint, N. 1990. Structure and organization of an Amazonian forest bird community. Ecol. Monogr. 60: 213-238. Traylor, M. A., Jr. (ed.) 1980. Check-list of the Birds of the World. Vol. 8. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Willis, E. O. 1977. Lista preliminar das aves da parte Noroeste e areas vizinhas da Reserva Ducke, Amazonas, Brasil. Rev. Brasil. Biol. 37: 585-601. Addresses: Carlos A. Peres, Museu Goeldi, Depto. Zoologia, Cx. Postal 399, Belem, Para 66.000, Brazil, and Sub-Dept. Vet. Anatomy, Cambridge University, Cambridge CB21QS. Andrew Whittaker, Projeto DBFF, INPA/Ecologia, Cx. Postal 478, Manaus, Amazonas 69.011, Brazil. ©British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 APPENDIX. List of 365 bird species recorded on the upper Rio Urucu, Tefé, Amazonas, Brazil Foraging Family and species Documentation Habitats position Sociality Abundance TINAMIDAE (7) Tinamus guttatus C,V Fh,Fe ale Ss Cc Tinamus tao CRY Fh,Fe by S Cc Tinamus major C,V Fc,Fh Lh Ss U Crypturellus variegatus V,S Fe,Fh A S Cc Crypturellus cinereus CW; Fc,Fh a Ss Cc *Crypturellus undulatus C,V Fi ‘le S U Crypturellus soui V,S Fe,Fh,Fc Ss U PHALACROCORACIDAE (1) * Phalacrocorax olivaceus S R,Rm W (e; ANHINGIDAE (1) * Anhinga anhinga S Rm,R WwW Ss U ARDEIDAE (7) Pilherodius pileatus S Cm,Rm,Dw W S U *Egretta thula S Rm W S U *Casmerodius albus S Rm W S U Butorides striatus Ss Cm,Rm W Ss) U Tigrisoma lineatum S,V Cm W S U Bubulcus ibis S Dw WwW G,sS U Cochlearius cochlearius Ss Rm,Cm W Ss U THRESKIORNITHIDAE (2) + Ajaia ajaja Ss Rm W Ss) U Mesembrinibis cayennensis S Rm,Cm W Ss U ANATIDAE (2) *Oxyura dominica Ss R WwW G U *Cairina moschata Ss R W Ss U CATHARTIDAE (4) Sarcoramphus papa S O,Fh,Fi A S R Cathartes aura S O,Fh,Fo A Ss R Cathartes melambrotus Ss O,Fh,Fo A Ss R Coragyps atratus Ss Fo,O A G,S U (Continued) C. A. Peres & A. Whittaker 165 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) APPENDIX (Continued) Foraging Family and species Documentation Habitats position Sociality Abundance ACCIPITRIDAE (16) Harpta harpyja s Fh Cc tS) R Morphnus guianensis iS) Fh Cc SS) R Spizaetus ornatus iS} Fe,Fh Cc NS) R Spizastur melanoleucus S Fh,Fe (e Ss R Leucopternis albicollis Ss Fh €:Se S R Leucopternis schistacea Ss} Fh,Rm,Cm Sc Ss R Leucopternis kuhli S,V Fh C,Sc S,M U *Busarellus nigricollis Ss Rm Sc S Cc *Chondrohierax uncinatus Ss Rm,O,Fi Sc S R Buteo nitidus Ss Fh Sc Ss R Buteo platypterus iS) Fh Sc Ss R Buteogallus urubitinga Ss O,Fh U,A Ss U Accipiter superciliosus S) Fe Sc Ss R Ictinia plumbea Ss Oo A S (e Harpagus bidentatus S,V Fh,Fi Sc M,S Cc Elanoides forficatus Ss O A G M (Feb 89) FALCONIDAE (7) Falco rufigularis S,V Fe,Fo A,C Ss (@) Daptrius americanus S,V Fh,Fi Seb G,M (S Daptrius ater S,V Fe,Rm GA Ss U Herpetotheres cachinnans S,V Rm,Cm Cc S U Micrastur ruficollis M,S Fh,Fec Sc,U Ss U Micrastur gilvicollis M,S Fh Sc,U Ss U Micrastur mirandollet M,S Fh,Fi Sc S U CRACIDAE (4) Crax mitu (Om Fi,Fh ale S U Penelope jacquacu GV Fh,Fi SccLF Ss (© Aburria (Pipile) pipile NS) Fh,Fi Sc,F Ss R Ortalis motmot S,V Fo,Fe,Rm Sc,F Ss R PHASIANIDAE (2) Odontophorus stellatus Ss Fh,Fi Al G U Odontophorus gujanensis = Fh aly G U OPISTHOCOMIDAE (1) *Opisthocomus hoazin S Rm Sc G,S U PSOPHIIDAE (1) Psophia leucoptera CSV: Fh,Fi ae G,A Cc RALLIDAE (3) Aramides calopterus V,S Fi,Cm ah S U Aramides cajanea V(cp) Cm,Fi At: Ss c Laterallus exilis Cm dh S Cc HELIORNITHIDAE (1) Heliornis fulica Ss C,Cm WwW Ss U EURYPYGIDAE (1) Eurypyga helias S,V Cm,Fc,Fi 7 S) U CHARADRIIDAE (1) *Hoploxypterus cayanus Ss) Rm al S U SCOLOPACIDAE (1) Tringa solitaria Ss Dw,Fo aD; Ss M (Jan—Feb 89) RYNCHOPIDAE (1) *Rynchops nigra S R W S,G Cc COLUMBIDAE (5) Columba subvinacea S,V Fe Se Ss (e Columba plumbea S,V Fe,Fi Sc Ss Cc Leptotila rufaxilla M,V Fe,T Aly S (@ Geotrygon montana M Fh,Fi 4h iS) (e Columbina talpacoti Ss Fo,D,T i? S,G U PSITTACIDAE (14) Ara ararauna Ss Fh, Fc C,F G,S (G Ara macao S Fh,Fi C,F G,S Cc Ara chloroptera Ss Fh,Fi C,F G,s R Ara severa Ss Fi,Fc GF G U (Continued) C.A. Peres S A. Whittaker Family and species + Ara manilata Amazona autumnalis Amazona farinosa Deroptyus accipitrinus Pionus menstruus Pionites leucogaster Pionopsitta barrabandi Pyrrhura picta Brotogeris versicolorus Touit purpurata CUCULIDAE (6) Neomorphus pucheranii Piaya cayana Piaya melanogaster Piaya minuta Crotophaga major Crotophaga ani STRIGIDAE (5) Ciccaba huhula Glaucidium brasilianum Glaucidium minutissimum Otus watsonii Pulsatrix perspicillata NYCTIBIIDAE (2) Nyctibius grandis Nyctibius leucopterus CAPRIMULGIDAE (4) Podager nacunda Nyctidromus albicollis Chordeiles minor Chordeiles acutipennis APODIDAE (5) Chaetura chapmani Chaetura cinereiventris Chaetura (spinicauda ) Panyptila cayennensis Streptoprocne zonaris TROCHILIDAE (14) Thalurania furcata Amazilia versicolor Phaethornis philippi Phaethornis ruber Phaethornis superciliosus Polyplancta aurescens Chlorostilbon mellisugus Campylopterus largipennis Florisuga mellivora Anthracothorax nigricollis Heliothryx aurita Threnetes leucurus Popelairia langsdorfit Topaza pyra (REx) TROGONIDAE (6) Pharomachrus pavoninus Trogon viridis Trogon violaceus Trogon melanurus + Trogon curucut + Trogon rufus ALCEDINIDAE (5) Ceryle torquata Chloroceryle americana 166 APPENDIX (Continued) Foraging Documentation Habitats position S Fi,Fe C,F S Fh,Fe C,F S Fh,Fe C,F S,V Fh,Fe,Fi C,F,Se S,V Fh,Fc, Fi C,F Sevi Fh,Fc,Fi,Fe Sc:CiP S Fh,Fc C,Sc,F S,V Fe,Fi,Fh C,Sc,F S Fh,Fe GE Ss Fh C,F S,V Fh,Fc Ar Ss T,Fe Sc S Fh,Fe Sc Ss Fh Se RNY Cm,Rm Vv S Fo,T Vv S,V Fh Sc tS) Cm,Fc,Fh Sc,U V (mch) Fh,Fe Sc V (mch) Fe Se Ss Fh,Fc Sc SV Fh (C H Fh iC Ss D T Ss Fe,D T S O A H O A S O A Ss O A S O A S O A H O A M Fo,Cm U M Fh Sc,€ M Fh,Fe U S Fo,T,Fh U M Fh,Fi U M Cm,Fw U S Fe U M Cm,Fw U S Fe,Cm Sc Ss Fe CSc M Fh,Fi U M Fh,Fi U S Fh & C (cp) Cm,Fc U,Sc S Fe,Fh Sc,F S Fh,Fe Sc,F M Fh,Fi Sc,F M Fh,Fe Sc,F S Fh Sc,F iS) Fe Sc,F S,V R,Rm,C Se C,Cm Sc Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Sociality w CE eS UON 2S) 22 NNW WM 20 wn NNW WM Ww ANNNNNNNNNNNDNHN QNQADA AAWNH UMN 7) ANAnNnnwnm nw Abundance Ge Ge Se1eeE G@-e> 16 Qie-VQcreiGiers S (Feb—Mar 89) S (13 Mar 89) Cc M (Jan—Apr 89) M (Jan—Apr 89) HOR en elOli@liore sa GIQiOi@le:@lere GO QiQiai@ “: G'S: @1 O'S O1Ol@' GiGs = O1 Ol O1Gie Ge = SCl@!@)@1@1@.O1@ Gie'@ie @'0 G10 C:4 (Continued) C. A. Peres S A. Whittaker 169 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) APPENDIX (Continued) Foraging Family and species Documentation Habitats position Sociality Abundance Tyrannus savana Ss D,Dw A,Sc G € Tyrannus tyrannus SS) Fe ¢€ Ss U Tyrannopsts luteiventris S,V Cm,Fe Fe, V,F G € Myitodynastes maculatus Ss Fe,Fo (C, S,G U Conopias parva S,V Fh,Fe,Fc Cc Ss € Legatus leucophaius S,V Fe,Fh ¢,F S M (2 Jan 89) Empidonomus varius S,V Fe,Fh Cc S M (Apr 89) Empidonomus aurantioatrocristatus S,V Fh,Fe (S M M (Apr 89) Attila spadiceus Ss Fh,Fe,Fc Sc S,|M C * Attila cinnamomeus Ss Rm,Fi Sc S Cc Rhytipterna simplex S Fh,Fe Sc,F S,M Cc Lantocera hypopyrrha M,V Fh,Fc Sc,F iS) U Ramphotrigon ruficauda S,V Fh Sc Ss G Ramphotrigon megacephala Ss Fh,Fe Sc Ss @ Myiopagts caniceps Ss Fh (© S € Mytopagis gaimardiu Ss Fh,Fe (CS M Cc Sirystes sibilator S,V Fh,Fc (G M Cc Pyrocephalus rubinus iS} Fo Sc S U,M (23 May 89) Mionectes (Pipromorpha) oleaginea M Fh,Fc,Fi U,F S,G (e Onychorhynchus coronatus M Fh U tS) U Cnipodectes subbrunneus M Fh,Fe U S U Mytobius atricaudus M Fh,Fc U,Se Ss (@ Contopus virens S,V Fo,Fe Sc S M (05 Jan 89) Camptostoma obsoletum H Fe WESc Ss U Cnemotriccus fuscatus H Fe U S U Mytarchus (ferox) S (mch) Fe Sc Ss & Elaenia parvirostris Ss Fe,Fc Ssc€ Ss (G Elaenia (flavogaster ) s Fe Sc iS) (e Rhynchocyclus olivaceus H Fh Se S U Platyrinchus coronatus M Fh,Fc U SS) Cc Platyrinchus platyrhynchos M Fh,Fe U S ¢ Corythopis torquata M Cm,Fc ly SS) Cc Tolmomyias sulphurescens Ss Fh,Fe Sc iS) (S; Tolmomytas assimilis Ss Fh,Fc Sc S,M € Tolmomytas poliocephalus H Fh,Fe Sc Ss U Tyrannulus elatus Ss Fh,Fe Sc Ss (© *Knipolegus poecilocercus S Rm,Fi U iS) (e Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum S,V Fh,Fe Se Ss C Zimmerius (Tyranniscus ) gracilipes S Fh,Fe ¢ Ss Cc Lophotriccus galeatus M,S Fh U Ss C Terenotriccus erythrurus M Cm,Fc,Fe U Ss Cc Hemitriccus zosterops S,V Fe,Cm U Ss (S Hemitriccus (minor ) Ss Fh U Ss U PIPRIDAE (9) Pipra rubrocapilla M Fh Sc,F G,s Cc Pipra pipra M Fe U,F s (e Pipra coronata caelestipileata M Fe U,F s (© Piprites chloris V (aw,mch) Fh Sc M,S Cc Tyranneutes stolemanni Ss Fh Sc tS) @ Chiroxiphia pareola regina M,V Fe U,Sc S,G (@ Machaeropterus regulus iS) Fh U Ss U Heterocercus linteatus Ss Fc,Fi U Ss U Schiffornis turdinus M Fh U Ss ( COTINGIDAE (11) Cotinga cayana Ss Fh,Fe C,F Ss (G Xipholena punicea Ss Fh,Fe C,F S) (eS *Querula purpurata Ss Rm C,Se S,G U Gymnoderus foetidus Ss Fh C,F Ss U *Cephalopterus ornatus Ss Rm CE Ss U Todopleura isabellae iS) Fh C,F Ss U Phoenicircus nigricollis Ss Fh CAR Ss U Pachyramphus castaneus S Fh Sc M U (Continued) C. A. Peres & A. Whittaker Family and species Platypsaris minor Lipaugus vociferans Tityra cayana HIRUNDINIDAE (6) * Atticora fasciata *Tachycineta albiventer Phaeoprogne tapera Riparia riparia (WR) Neochelidon tibialis (WR) Stelgidopteryx ruficollis TROGLODYTIDAE (4) Cyphorhinus arada Microcerculus marginatus Thyrothorus genibarbis *Campylorhynchus turdinus TURDINAE (2) Turdus albicollis Catharus minimus (WR) POLIOPTILINAE (3) Ramphocaenus melanurus Polioptila guianensis (REx) Polioptila plumbea EMBERIZINAE (5) Cyanocompsa cyanoides Paroaria gularis Oryzoborus angolensis Sporophila bouvronides Sporophila (lineola) CARDINALINAE (1) Caryothraustes canadensis (REx) THRAUPINAE (30) Thraupis episcopus Thraupis palmarum Cyanicterus cyanicterus (REx) Hemithraupis flavicollis (WR) Ramphocelus carbo Tachyphonus cristatus Tachyphonus surinamus Lanio versicolor Lamprospiza melanoleuca (WR) Nemosia pileata *Eucometis penicillata Cissopis leveriana (WR) Habia rubica Piranga rubra Euphonia rufiventris Euphonia laniirostris Euphonia chrysopasta Euphonia minuta Tangara chilensis chilensis (WR) Tangara schranki Tangara velia Tangara mexicana boliviana Dacnis lineata Dacnis cayana Dacnis flaviventer Chlorophanes spiza Cyanerpes nitidus Cyanerpes caeruleus Cyanerpes cyaneus Coereba flaveola (WR) 170 APPENDIX (Continued) Foraging Documentation Habitats position S,V Fh,Fe Sc,F S,V Fh,Fe Sc,F Ss Fh Sc,C Ss R,Rm A Ss R,Rm A Ss C,Cm A S (cp) D,Dw A M (cp,aw) Ciem' A C,Cm A M,V Fh,Fc U Suv Fh T M Fh U S,V Rm,Fe Sc M,V Fc,Fh Sc,U,F S (cp) Fh Se S Fh,Fc Sc S (aw,mch) Fh Cc H Fh (e M Fh,Fe U,Sc S Rm,Cm Vv Ss Fo,D Vv S (cp,mch) Fo,D V Ss D,Fo Vv H (sp) Fh Sc Ss Fe,Fo Sc Si Fe,Fo Sc S (cp,aw) Fh (Oj S (cp,mch) Fh,Fe C,F M T,Fe,D Vv S Fh,Fi C,Sc,F Ss Fe,Fc Sc,U,F Ss Fh,Fc Sc,U S,V (cp,aw) Fh,Fe C,F Fe,Fc (S Ss Rm Vv S (cp,aw) Fe,Fh Cc M Fh,Fc U S Fh Sc S) Fh C,Sc,F S Fh,Fc,Sc C,F Ss Fh,Fc C,F Ss Fi,Fc C,F S (cp,mch) Fh,Fc,Fe C,Sc,F M Fh,Fc Sc,C,U,F S) Fh,Fc,Fe EiSc Ss Fh C,F iS) Fh,Fe,Fc C,F Ss Fh,Fe,Fc C,F 5 Fh,Fe C,F S) Fh,Fc,Fe C,F Ss Fh, Fe, Fc C,F S Fh,Fe,Fe CE Ss Fh,Fe,Fc C.F S (cp) Fe,Fo C,F Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(3) Sociality Abundance Ree RO zana ana (03 Dec 88) Qaagagnagga Q QAnOD nn ,M (05 May 89) anne wn (Feb—Apr 89) NNMnNWMNW n (a) ,M (12 Jan 89) SS SS ONS See See) Q BD x QzZ0 FANON @OL@O: @OLOLarGtGi@r@:@i@s@: GOOG OiGiGz@rQie Orca Ee ve) DPwMnWRaGd Gare: (1200m a.s.1. While occurring in pairs during the breeding season it is gregarious at other times, when feeding birds disposed at ground level in low screen- ing cover will periodically join forces in giving voice to a collective churring chorus, reminiscent of the vocalization of some babblers Turdoides spp. Lacking distinctive field characters, it was for long con- fused with the Tawny-flanked Prinia P. subflava. Benson (1946a) noted that his new species P. robertsi had only 8 rectrices; this was later queried by Chapin (1946), who noted that in two specimens of robertsi presented to the American Museum of Natural History, New York, the species seemingly had a complement of 10 rectrices. In a recent note on the P. A. Clancey 218 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) question of the number of tail-feathers in robertsz, Irwin (1989) believed that Chapin miscounted the tail-feathers, as some 60 specimens in the collection of the Natural History Museum in Bulawayo and a further 20 in the Durban Natural Science Museum showed incontrovertibly that robertsi has a consistent rectricial count of 8 quills only. In the other austral African warblers currently grouped in Prinia Horsfield, 1821 (type-species Prinia familiaris Horsfield), the rectricial complement is 10 in P. subflava, P. flavicans, P. maculosa and P. hypoxantha (see Clancey 1989). In the case of the so-called Rufous-eared Warbler, often relegated to Prinia by conservative workers, current opinion inclines to favour adoption of its placement as a sole member of Malcorus Smith, 1829, as argued by Maclean (1974), and treatment as Malcorus pectoralis Smith on removal from Prinia. In Malcorus, the rectrices number 12, as opposed to 10 in the new genus Phragmacia proposed by Brooke & Dean (1990) for Drymoica substriata Smith, 1842, a further southern African endemic warbler confined to the Karoo biome sector of the South West Arid Zone. As far as can be assessed rectricial number is consistent, making due allowance for moult and feather loss through shot damage, in taxonomi- cally relevant complexes of warblers in the Afrotropics. Comparing the situation presented by the low tail-feather complement of 8 in P. robertsi with that of all other southern African sylviids (some 60 breeding species), we find that in the more advanced warblers the tail-feather count is 12 and in all others apart from roberts: 10. Roberts’ Prinia closely resembles P. substriata in its tail profile, which is abruptly stepped rather than evenly graduated, the outermost rectrix averaging 38.1 mm, the longest (innermost) 61.4mm. The other tail- feathers are closer in length to the innermost pair than in typical Prinia spp., in this not sharply dissimilar to what is found in substriata, in which the equivalent measurements are 42.0 and 69.7 mm (Table 1). The latter also lacks a dark subterminal tail-bar, which is such a feature of typical prinias. The rectrices in roberts are, in addition, appreciably narrower than those of substriata. In the stepped and close grouping of rectrices 2—5 the southern African endemics (robertsi and substriata) stand apart from other Afrotropical prinia-like species and are probably relicts of early warbler radiations without extant relatives either to the north or south of the Zambezi. As will be appreciated from Table 1, other southern African and relevant extra-limital species have tail profiles which are more or less evenly graduated. The disparity in tail-feather number (8 in robertsz, 10 in substriata) precludes these two endemics from being viewed as deriving from the same ancestral source, favouring their grouping in separate monotypic genera. Brooke & Dean show that nest architecture and egg colouration in substriata differ widely from those of typical Prinia spp., whereas in Roberts’ Prinia the nest and eggs (Benson 1946a, Manson & Manson 1980) are perhaps not sufficiently different from those of many prinias to warrant their usage as criteria of generic relevance. While roberts1 is not generically separable from typical prinias on what is known of its breeding biology, it is so on the basis of tail form and number of rectrices, whereas the Namaqua Warbler (substriata) is separable on both breeding biology and tail profile, but not on number of rectrices. P. A. Clancey 219 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) TABLE 1 Mensural data (means, mm) of Afrotropical Prinias and some associated long-tailed warblers (males only) Tail Species n Wing Culmen Tarsus R1 R4-6 __ Difference 8 rectrices Oreophilais robertsi 10 50.3 14.8 2311 38.1 61.4 EEN) 10 rectrices Prinia subfiava 10 50.2 14.0 21.4 28.4 70.6 42.2 Prinia somalica 2 49.5,50 14.0 19,20 34 SPiN STAD) 1611 — Prinia flavicans 10 54.3 14.1 2173 39.4 86.6 47.4 Prinia hypoxantha 10 53.8 14.5 PRaNy! 33.6 78.6 45.0 Prinia maculosa 10 52.9 13.8 21.5 Sed Trail 35.3 Herpystera bairdi 3 54.3 15.8 24.0 15.8 6247 46.9 Schistolais leucopogon 3 58.0 14.5 25.0 30.6 60.6 30.0 Phragmacia substriata 10 55-5 15.2 20.9 42.0 69.7 UST 12 rectrices Heliolais erythroptera 10 biley 783 D2 34.7 64.6 29.9 Notes. Relevant African species with tails of 10 rectrices which were not examined are as follows: Prinia fluviatilis Chappuis, 1974; Prinia molleri Bocage, 1887; ?Prinia leontica Bates, 1930 (treated as a member of the genus Schistolais by Wolters (1980)), and Urolais epichlora (Reichenow, 1881). The Rufous-eared Warbler Malcorus pectoralis Smith, 1829, which is often viewed as a species of Prinia, as by Traylor (1986), has a tail of 12 rectrices and the dorsal surfaces boldly streaked. The nest architecture has also been shown to differ from that of true prinias (use of dead and not green grass blades and stalks) by Maclean (1974). The reduction between the outermost tail-feather (rectrix 1) and the innermost in (r5) Phragmacia substriata and (r4) Oreophilais robertsi to below 28 mm reflects the less graduated tail-profile in these two austral African endemics, which are without extant relatives. The two males of Prinia somalica available appeared to be in breeding dress, and were not strictly comparable with the other material measured, all of which was in freshly moulted non- breeding condition. Other points of moment in determining the generic status of robertsi are that its voice differs widely from that of prinias (see sonagrams in Maclean 1985), and that it is strongly gregarious when not breeding, moving about in low scrub in sporadically vociferous parties. Also, apart from the moulting in of a minimally shorter tail, it does not assume a marked seasonal mode of dress in response to the onset of nidification. A shorten- ing of the length of the tail in such warblers as prinias and cisticolas is a correlate of the constructing of a compact enclosed nest with a lateral entrance. While some non-passerines of ancient lineage exhibit a measure of individual variation in the number of tail-feathers, the rectricial complement in the case of passerines is in the main consistent in both genera and species. This is true for the Sylviidae, except in the case of Apalis pulchra Sharpe, which has only ten rectrices as against twelve in other Apalis forms (see Bannerman 1930) and in other assemblages of advanced warblers of such genera as Sylvia, Parisoma, Phylloscopus, Cisticola, etc. From this it is postulated that in long-tailed forms—as in the case of Prinia—evolutionary selection has not favoured an increment of the rectricial count from ten to twelve and the parallel adoption of an P. A. Clancey 220 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(4) apalis-like plumage facies and breeding biology. In the case of A. pulchra, plumage and tail-length (wing and tail are about equal in length) are concordant with those of typical Apalis spp., the retention of a ten-quilled tail in effect a symplesiomorphy (primitive similarity—with Prinia spp.). In warblers such as Prinia and Camaroptera spp., most of which habitu- ally cock the tail at right angles to the back when excited, the tail-feather number is here interpreted as of particular evolutionary import. The existence of a lone species with an eight-quilled tail, namely Roberts’ Prinia, furnishes what is 1n effect an example of evolutionary retardation involving a single variable. This species is unique in the Afrotropics in being the only sylviid with eight rectrices, and, as has been shown here, a shift through the ten-quilled tail facies of Prinia spp. and some allied forms to acomplement of twelve in the more advanced ones, suggests that a tail of only eight rectrices represents a relict early stage in warbler evolution. The case is in some ways analogous to that of A. pulchra men- tioned earlier, in which the warbler complexes of Prinia and Apalis spp. are seen to merge in respect of a single character. In the circumstances, the relegation of Benson’s P. robertsi to a new monotypic genus appears to be justified. Oreophilais gen. nov. Type species. Prinia robertsi Benson, Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 66(1946): 52. Diagnosis. Difters from Prinia spp. (see below) in having a rectricial complement of eight as against ten quills, the tail profile more stepped than graduated, with the outermost feather separated from the tip of the inner (rectrix 4) by c. 23 mm. Rectrices 2-4 somewhat clustered apically. ‘Tail-feathers narrow and completely unpatterned. Seasonal dress change associated with breeding minimal. Eye-colour in adult pale yellow. Status. Monotypic, the single species Oreophilais robertsi presumably relict and without known extant relatives; confined to the frontier high- lands of eastern Zimbabwe and southern Mozambique at > 1200 maz:s.1. Etymology. Oreophil-, Greek, mountain-loving. The /ais component of the name, elided with the first part, derives from part of the Greek hypolais, which refers to a small warbler-like passerine and has been employed in the formation of several warbler genera. It has also been used as a specific name for the Wailing Cisticola Cistzcola lais (Finsch & Hartlaub), and figures as a synonym of the Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva. English name. With the removal of robertsi from the genus Prinia a change in the vernacular name of the species seems desirable. To meet this need I propose Briar Warbler in allusion to the bracken-briar habitat affected by this montane endemic warbler. Data assembled during the course of recent research on prinia-like species, which may be found to be helpful in further work on the generic placing of other contentiously classified African sylviids, are given below under the appropriate generic connotation: Prinia Horsfield, 1821: type-species Prinia familiaris Horsfield. Tail of 10 rectrices and steeply graduated, the tail-feathers of variable width, P. A. Clancey 221 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) with light tip and pronounced brownish or blackish sub-terminal spot or complete bar. Seasonal plumage change associated with breeding results in darker upper-parts and a marked reduction in tail-length. Eight Afrotropical species, others in southern Palaearctic and Indomalaya. Herpystera Sundevall, 1872: type-species Drymoica bairdii Cassin. Tail of 10 rectrices and more steeply graduated than in last. Bill basally coarser and broader than in Prinia spp., and brownish-black upper-parts and wings, the latter spotted with white, and heavily melanized and banded ventral surface distinctive. Monotypic. Recognized by Wolters (1980) but not by Traylor (1985). Urolais Alexander, 1903: type-species Urolais mariae Alexander. Tail of 10 rectrices, the innermost pair greatly extended beyond the rest, especially in nominate race of U. epichlora. Dorsally and over wings yellowish-olivaceous. Monotypic. Recognised by Traylor and treated asa synonym of Prinia by Wolters. Schistolais Wolters, 1980: type-species Drymoeca leucopogon Cabanis, 1875. Tail of 10 rectrices, graduated and only marginally (<6 mm) longer than wing. Rectrices relatively broad and sharply pointed and completely unpatterned. Bill robust. Plumage bluish-grey, with dark cap and distinc- tive white throat. Monotypic? Wolters (1980) includes P. leontica in Schistolais in line with acomment by White (1960), whereas Traylor does not recognise the genus and leaves leontica in Prinia. Phragmacia Brooke & Dean, 1990: type-species Drymoica substriata Smith. Tail of 10 rectrices, the feathers unpatterned and the profile more stepped than graduated, with rectrices 2—5 somewhat apically clustered. Bill relatively long and slender. No seasonal change of dress associated with nidification. Breeding biology separates Phragmacia from Prinia and allied genera; nest an open cup in riverine herbage or flood debris, and eggs distinctive. Monotypic, with the lone species relict and without extant relatives. Heliolais Sharpe, 1903: type-species Dybowskia kemoensis Oustalet = Drymoica erythroptera Jardine. Tail of 12 rectrices, graduated and strongly patterned. Bill more robust than any of the foregoing, slightly decurved and the culmen markedly arched. Chestnut colour of wings distinctive, and assumption of grey dorsal surface in breeding plumage change sets it apart. Monotypic, without close relatives. Acknowledgement For assistance with the loan of material Iam grateful to P. R. Colston of the British Museum (Natural History), Tring. References: Bannerman, D. A. 1930. The Birds of Tropical West Africa. Vol. 5. Crown Agents for the Colonies, London. Benson, C. W. 1946a. A new Longtail from Southern Rhodesia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 66: 52-53. Benson, C. W. 1946b. A visit to the Vumba Highlands, Southern Rhodesia. Ostrich 17: 291-292. Brooke, R. K. & Dean, W. R. J. 1990. On the biology and taxonomic position of Drymoica substriata Smith, the so-called Namaqua Prinia. Ostrich 61: 51-55. Chapin, J. P. 1946. Footnote to Benson 1946b. Clancey, P. A. 1989. Four additional species of southern African endemic birds. Durban Mus. Novit. 14: 149-151. Storrs L. Olson 222 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(4) Clancey, P. A. 1991. On the generic status and geographical variation of the Namaqua Prinia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 111: 101-104. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. British Museum (Nat. Hist.). London. Irwin, M. P. S. 1989. The number of rectrices in some Afrotropical warblers (Sylviidae). Honeyguide 35: 179-180. Maclean, G. L. 1974. The breeding biology of the Rufous-eared Prinia and its bearing on the genus Prinia. Ostrich 45: 9-14. Maclean, G. L. 1985. Roberts’ Birds of Southern Africa. John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town. Manson, C. & Manson, A. J. 1980. Some notes and a preliminary analysis of ringing data on the Forest Prinia. Honeyguide, no. 102: 12-15. Traylor, M. A. 1986. African Sylviidae zm Peters’ Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 11. Museum of Comparative Zoology. Harvard. White, C. M. N. 1960. Further notes on African warblers. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 80: 147-152. Wolters, H. E. 1980. Die Vogelarten der Erde. Lief. 5. Paul Parey, Hamburg and Berlin. Address: Dr P. A. Clancey, Research Associate, Durban Natural Science Museum, P.O. Box 4085, Durban 4000, South Africa. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Remarks on the fossil record and suprageneric nomenclature of barbets (Aves: Ramphastidae) by Storrs L. Olson Received 18 March 1991 Prum (1988), in expanding on Burton’s (1984) observation that the diver- gence of toucans occurred within the family of barbets (Capitonidae), provided a convincing case for including these groups in the same family- level taxon, the name Ramphastidae having priority. In their osteological studies of the Pici, both Prum (1988) and Simpson & Cracraft (1981) emphasized cranial characters at the expense of postcranial ones, which might still be investigated profitably. For example, toucans and barbets share a highly distinctive, presumably derived, morphology of the coracoid that is not found in other members of the Pici. Here, however, I would call attention to errors of interpretation by Prum (1988) in the fossil record and biogeography of barbets, and to errors in nomenclature of subfamilies and tribes that he either introduced or perpetuated. The taxonomic status of the fossil genus Capitonides Ballmann (1969a) described a new genus and species of barbet, Capitonides europaeus, from a carpometacarpus from a mid-Miocene fissure-fill in Bavaria. He referred a tarsometatarsus and humerus from the same site to ‘‘Capitonides sp.’’. A carpometacarpus from the Miocene at Grive-Saint-Alban, France, was assigned only to the Capitonidae and was considered to belong to a species more similar to living barbets than was Capitonides (Ballmann (1969b). Storrs L. Olson 223 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) In the original description, Ballmann (1969a) stated that he had no skeletons of the modern genus Trachyphonus for comparison but he con- sidered it unlikely that Capitonides would prove to be like any living genus. Later, Ballmann (1983) described Capitonides protractus from a humerus, ulna, carpometacarpus and tarsometatarsus from the middle Miocene Nordlinger Ries of southern Germany. At this time he realized that C. protractus was actually quite closely related to the living African genus Trachyphonus, which he found to be osteologically primitive and quite distinct from other barbets, a fact that may have influenced his original assessment that Capitonides would not prove to be similar to living genera. Once he discovered their similarity to one another, however, Ballmann (1983) did not discuss such characters as might separate Capitonides from Trachyphonus, except to note that the former supposedly had a “‘relatively shorter’? carpometacarpus. Whereas the proportions in Capitonides seem rather different from those of other genera of barbets (Ballmann 1983, Table 1), Capitonides (carpometacarpus 46.2% of humerus length) shows negligible difference from Trachyphonus (47.2—49.2%). In comparing Ballmann’s illustrations with modern specimens, I see nothing that will distinguish these fossils from Trachyphonus. Ballmann’s (1983: 48) only biogeographical or paleoecological con- clusion was that “‘a barbet indicates that the winters must have been mild enough to allow the growth of evergreen vegetation with fruits or berries during the whole year’’. This is an interesting but unexceptional con- clusion that is consonant with other paleontological evidence and only requires that the fossils in question be of a barbet. Prum (1988) criticised Ballmann’s association of Capitonides with the Capitonidae and with Trachyphonus as being based partially on primitive characters. This confuses phylogeny reconstruction with the process of identification, which involves assessment of the sum of all characters, regardless of polarity. If Trachyphonus differs from other barbets by the retention of primitive characters, and the fossils possess these same characters and are otherwise not significantly different from Trachyphonus, what basis is there for identifying the fossils as anything other than barbets related to Trachyphonus? Prum (1988) seized on a single character in one of Ballmann’s (1983) line drawings, the supposed single instead of double canal in the hypo- tarsus of the tarsometatarsus of Capitonides protractus, as showing that this taxon was the sister-group of the entire suborder Pici. As a conse- quence, he erected a new family Capitonididae for the genus Capitonides (despite the fact that the type species, C. europaeus, is known only from a carpometacarpus and cannot be ascertained as having possessed the only character ascribed to the family). He further considered that no paleo- ecological inferences could be drawn from these fossils because they could not be shown to be barbets. The erection of a new family based on a single such character is bad enough, but to do so without verifying that Ballmann’s drawing was accurate or that this character was not attributable to breakage in the fossil is certainly not the best procedure. Nor was any consideration given to the possible ontogenetic or phylogenetic development of this character, or the amount of variation among individuals. Storrs L. Olson 224 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) A B Figure 1. Proximal view of right tarsometatarsi in two species of toucans (Ramphastinae) to show individual variation in ossification of the small septum (arrows) dividing the hypo- tarsal loop enclosing the flexor tendons: A, Andigena nigrirostris USNM 428774; B, A. hypoglauca USNM 428789. The presence or absence of this septum determines whether there are one or two hypotarsal canals, but changes neither the number nor placement of the flexor tendons. We are not talking here about the development of some significant evolutionary novelty. The change from a single to a double hypotarsal canal does not involve the addition of a new canal or the displacement of flexor tendons, but nothing more than the ossification of a septum between two already discrete portions of the original single canal (Fig. 1). Perhaps all members of the Pici progress from the single to the double condition during their ontogeny by such ossification, which in turn may have taken place several times during the phylogeny of the Pici. Very little searching among modern skeletons was needed to find an example within the Pici (an individual of the toucan Andigena hypoglauca) in which this ossified septum was lacking, leaving it with a single hypotarsal canal (Fig. 1). This character probably has little or no phylogenetic significance. If it really is present in Capitonides protractus, which, after all, is more than 15 million years old, why should this not simply be regarded as a minor primitive condition? If so, it would certainly not provide a basis for the creation of a new family. Capitonides protractus appears to be referable to the modern genus Trachyphonus, and the type species, C. europaeus, may be as well. I reject the name Capitonididae Prum, 1988, as a junior synonym of Ramphastidae Vigors, 1825, in the newly expanded sense, and as a junior synonym of Capitonidae Bonaparte, 1846, in the Grachiionel sense. Because Capitonides and Trachyphonus surely belong to the same subfamilial group, if not the same genus, as first revisor I regard Trachyphoninae Prum, 1988, as taking precedence over Capitonididae Prum, 1988. Suprageneric nomenclature Prum’s (1988) classification resulted in the recognition of 10 suprageneric taxa within the expanded family Ramphastidae, of which 7 were proposed as new. Three of these names, one of which does not have Prum’s author- ship, are grammatically incorrect. There already exist well-known avian Glyn Young 225 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) family-group names with the stems bucco (Bucconidae) and ornis (e.g. Threskiornithidae) to serve as models. The first use of Megalaiminae is traceable to Sundevall (1873: 75, where spelled Megalaeminae). Erroneous renderings in Prum (1988) and their corrections are listed below: Erroneous Grammatically correct Gymnobuccini Gymnobucconini Megalaiminae Megalaimatinae Semnorninae Semnornithinae. Acknowledgements I thank George Steyskal for verifying the suprageneric emendations above, and Lester L. Short and David W. Steadman for comments on the manuscript. References: Ballmann, P. 1969a. Die Végel aus der altburdigalen Spaltenfullung von Wintershof (West) bei Eichstatt in Bayern. Zitteliana 1: 5—60. Ballmann, P. 1969b. Les oiseaux Miocéne de La Grive-Saint-Alban (Isére). Géobios 2: 157-204. Ballmann, P. 1983. A new species of fossil barbet (Aves: Piciformes) from the Middle Miocene of the Nordlinger Ries (Southern Germany). 7. Vert. Paleont. 3: 43—48. Burton, P. J. K. 1984. Anatomy and evolution of the feeding apparatus in the avian orders Coraciiformes and Piciformes. Bull. Brit. Mus. (Nat. Hist.) 47(6): 331—443. Prum, R. O. 1988. Phylogenetic interrelationships of the barbets (Aves: Capitonidae) and toucans (Aves: Ramphastidae) based on morphology with comparisons to DNA-DNA hybridization. Zool. 7. Linn. Soc. 92: 313-343. Simpson, S. F. & Cracraft, J. 1981. The phylogenetic relationships of the Piciformes (Class Aves). Auk 98: 481-494. Sundevall, C. 1872-1873. Methodi naturalis avium disponendarum tentamen. Samson & Wallin, Stockholm. Address: Dr Storrs L. Olson, Department of Vertebrate Zoology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 Sexual dimorphism in Meller’s Duck Anas mellert by Glyn Young Received 12 February 1991 First described in 1864, Meller’s Duck Anas melleri has generally been considered to have similar sexes (Sclater 1864, Hubbard 1907, Phillips 1922, Delacour 1956, Johnsgard 1978), although Darby (1978) and Madge & Burn (1988) have suggested that males may be darker than females and Todd (1979) that males have brighter legs and feet. Like other members of the genus, both sexes have their own calls; see Johnsgard (1978). Anas melleri is poorly known in Madagascar (where it is endemic) and very few specimens have been held in captivity. The species is also poorly represented in museums; thus there are only 13 skins, collected in GipniVioune 226 Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(4) Figure 1. One central tail feather of Meller’s Duck Anas melleri, and appearance of tail in resting bird, female (left) and male (right). Madagascar, at the British Museum (Natural History) (BMNH). Live birds arrived at the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust (JWPT) in 1977 from the introduced population on Mauritius (Darby 1978). Observation of these birds has shown anumber of clear, but not especially conspicuous, differences between the sexes. ‘The species has drab plumage but shows a degree of individual vari- ation. The edges of the breast and neck feathers of a few females are pale brown which, with their darker centres, give a striped appearance. In other females and in all males the darker edges of the feathers produce a more uniform reddish brown colouration. Leg and foot colour are also not constant. Bright orange legs and feet are a feature of some adult males, while in some females and juveniles the colour may be duller with dark webbing. This, however, appears quite variable within the captive population. Birds can be sexed at close range and with practice in the field by careful observation of the tails. The two central tail feathers of the male have extended tips which may protrude a short distance beyond the remainder of the tail (Fig. 1) and in older birds may also protrude upwards. These central feathers are all-black and contrast with the reddish-brown edges of the remaining tail feathers. The tail feathers of the female are all brown-edged and identical at their tips. The male usually holds his tail with the feathers tight, the dark Glyn Young 227 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) TABLE 1 Morphometrics (mm) of Anas melleri Sex n Range Mean SD Phillips (1922) Culmen 3 58 Wing 3 240-260 ‘Tarsus 3 38-45 Delacour (1956) Culmen 3 58-62 2 52-58 Wing 3 245-260 s) 241-253 Tarsus 3 42-45 BMNH Culmen 3 7 57-62 58.9 1.68 Q 5 54-57.5 55.8 1.34 JWPT Culmen 3 25 57-65.5 60.8 71 2 26 54-60 56.9 1.53 Wing 3 25 245-269 261.3 6.96 g 21 240-256 248.3 4.76 Tarsus 3 20 40.5-49.5 45.7 2.07 Q 15 38-48.5 42.5 2.51 Average weights (g) 3 19 883-1240 1009.8 99.8 (see text) Q 21 831.5-1140 910.7 66.6 TABLE 2 Head and bill length (mm) of Anas melleri Sex n Range Mean SD BMNH 3 7 123-131 124.6 3.38 2 5 113-118 115.3 1.89 JWPT 3 ZO WAN 812752 98 2)23 2 2057 did oye yidsel 1.62 Figure 2. Length of head and bill of Meller’s Duck Anas melleri. central pair appearing prominent. The female even at rest may hold her tail feathers loosely, giving a jagged appearance. Male A. melleri are generally larger than females but overlaps are seen in all previously recorded dimensions (see Table 1). No weights have previously been published. The weights of captive birds show a great seasonal range, so those given in Table 1 are based on average weights for individual birds. M. P.S. Irwin 228 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) The bill of A. melleri is long and thin, a diagnostic feature of the species, and in the field that of the male appears longer than that of the female. Investigation of captive birds at JWPT (‘Table 2) shows that the length of the head and bill of the male is significantly greater than that of the female (t= 11.965, d.f. =38, P<0.01), giving this long-billed appearance. This was also found in 12 specimens measured at the BMNH (t=3.224, d:f.=10, P<0:01-Wable2): Specimens in the hand may be sexed by determining skull length by measuring, with calipers, the distance between bill-tip and the back of the head (Fig. 2). This method removes the need to use the intrusive tech- nique of cloacal examination (see Hochbaum 1974 for description), and can be done swiftly with pre-set calipers. With experience, individual Meller’s Ducks can be sexed easily at close range and with little trouble in the field. Acknowledgements I wish to thank David Jeggo and Dr Anna Feistner of the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Dr Janet Kear and Jonathan Smith of the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, and M. P. Walters of the British Museum (Natural History), Tring. References: Darby, P. W. H. 1978. The breeding of Meller’s Duck Anas melleri (Sclater) at the Jersey Zoological Park. Dodo, 7. Jersey Wildl. Preserv. Trust 15: 29-32. Delacour, J. 1956. The Waterfowl of the World. Country Life, London. Hochbaum, H. A. 1974. Sex and age determination of waterfowl by cloacal examination. In: D. O. Hyde (ed.), Raising Wild Ducks in Captivity. Dutton & Co., New York. Hubbard, R. 1907. Ornamental Waterfowl. The Walsall Press, Walsall. Johnsgard, P. A. 1978. Ducks, Geese and Swans of the World. Lincoln, Nebraska. Madge, S. & Burn, H. 1988. Wildfowl: an identification guide to the ducks, geese and swans of the world. Christopher Helm, London. Phillips, J. C. 1922. A Natural History of the Ducks. Vol. 1. Houghton Mifflin, Boston. Sclater, P. L. 1864. A new species of duck from Madagascar. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1864: 487-488. Todd, F. S. 1979. Waterfowl: Ducks, Geese and Swans of the World. Seaworld Press, San Diego. Address: H. G. Young, Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Les Augres Manor, Trinity, Jersey, Channel Islands. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 ‘The specific characters of the Slender-tailed Cisticola Cisticola melanura (Cabanis) by M. P. S. Irwin Received 18 February 1991 The Slender-tailed Cisticola* Cisticola melanura is endemic to miombo (Brachystegia) woodland and restricted to a very limited area within this *This bird does not have a well-established common name and Black-tailed Cisticola would seem more appropriate in view of the all-black tail. M. P. S. Irwin 229 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) biome, in northeastern Angola and southwestern Zaire. It is apparently rare everywhere, and its range is highly disjunct and fragmented. It was first described from northern Angola without precise locality by Cabanis (1882), 7. Orn. 30: 349) as Dryodromas melanura; \ater a similar bird from the Lufupa River, Katanga, was described by Neave (1909, Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 8, 4: 130) as Dryodromas pearsoni. Chapin (1953) first suggested that they were conspecific, and White (1962) placed pearsonzi in the synonymy of melanura. The species remains known from only 13 or 14 specimens from 5 or 6 localities, in rich, apparently undifferentiated savanna woodland. It has never been studied in life and the little that is known about it comes from the observations of collectors. Its generic affinities have also been the subject of some disagreement and it has on occasion been incorrectly placed in the genus Apalis (Hall & Moreau 1970, Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1963), but the bill is very typical of the genus Cisticola and quite unlike any Apalis (Irwin 1990; see also Chapin 1953). A measure of doubt has even been cast on its status as a distinct species. Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire (1980), discussing the relation- ships of the Short-tailed Neddicky C. fulvicapilla and the Long-tailed Neddicky C. angusticauda which they regarded as conspecific, went on to suggest that the bird called Apalis melanura by Hall & Moreau (1970), and also known as Cisticola pearsoni, will in time be found to be conspecific with C. fulvicapilla as it is very like the apparently allopatric but ecologi- cally similar angusticauda. It was with this suggestion in mind, and in the preparation of the species texts for Volume 5 of The Birds of Africa, that the present investigation was undertaken. The known material of C. melanura is listed in Table 1. The characters of Cisticola melanura Of the total of 14 study skins, I have personally examined 5 in Tring, 7 others have been examined on my behalf by others, and 2 were inaccess- ible. The descriptions which follow are based on the material at Tring. On first examination the reddish crown, duller reddish-brown mantle, greyish-brown wings and tail with long and narrow black rectrices of melanura are superficially very reminiscent of both C. angusticauda and C. fulvicapilla dispar, particularly on the upperparts, and it might well be thought that the characters considered to distinguish melanura could be attributed to wider variation within a geographical continuum between conspecifics, as suggested by Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire (1980). How- ever, on more critical examination melanura can be shown to possess characters not shared by the others, one of them unique. Lynes (1930) in his review of the genus Cisticola examined the type of melanura and judged it not to be a member of the genus because of its steeply graduated tail with long narrow, plain blackish rectrices, and concluded it was nearer Apalis. Lynes originally also excluded C. angusticauda from Cisticola, but after extensive field experience reversed his earlier decision (Lynes 1936), noting that its behaviour, habitat, nest and even voice were remarkably like those of fulvicapilla. Lynes (1938) continued to exclude melanura from Cisticola, though commenting on its general similarity in appearance to angusticauda. He then went on to JopAvly, “VY “JA Aq painsevow usuisedG, yasmoq ‘fy Aq posnseaw suoumtoadG, (€Z6] OUI BSOY aas) pauTUexa JOU SUdUTIDadG, Yyiayy 1enig Aq painseaw usuIDadG, Aauyong “HA S41 Aq poinseaur susutoadg, — jadaqsioney “9 Aq poinseaus uaurtsadg, — : sazony oso, ‘AIO SIF] [BINIBNY JO WINasNy PP uoynog “Yy Gary IS 6+ Lg das 4 IN (3X9 998) Bosuy ‘vozed 1eaNy opunq ‘opunqd op nasnyjy — IN vjosuy ‘epun’y ‘oyunjes opunq ‘opunq op nasnyjy yolulay _ — _ — IN Bposuy ‘O[OIRD JO MS WY CG] UDARF] MON ‘AUSIOATIUL) BI A ‘ALOASTHY [RANIVNY JO uNasnyy Apoqead Yolo ries) Ol It cr gg uel g wl BJoduY “OfOoRD JO MAS WY C] UdARH] MON] SAUISIDATUL) OBA ‘AIOISTH [BANIVN] JO vuNasnyAy Apoqead CAPSS) ws B®) S01 4 64 PSO°GhLC IA Pjosuy ‘ojooeD) JO MS WY CT UIINAII T, ($96] UapsaINOYIG 9a) o11K7 ‘eYLJY-USPPIA] 100A winasn yA] ¥ftPYULUO yy ITM “H Ol 8b Lt 09 994 LZ ¢¢ ‘OduRMY ‘edURMYTY Avg ‘nduNd (‘]J09 Sula T, xa) UdINAII J, ‘exLyy-Uappl 1004 winasnyyy YfpyurUOy — yuadut A /SouA'T Ole 3cS 8p = fe BNVOT GN (BZ ‘equyg ‘eAopuoseNy Iva] BUILT, ‘(ISIE] (WN) Wnasnyy ysHg yUuaduT A /SaUuA7T Il T+ Lb ¢¢ dnY 97 4d aiiez ‘eqeyg ‘aAopuoseny 1eaKy SuIL], ‘(ISIE] JBN) UMosnyy ysHtg yusddUT A /SOUATT II Tt St ¢¢ 3nY 97 A aie ‘eqeyg ‘aAopuoseny Ika Ky (a9ary ednyn’7 1addn uo) Sully, ‘(ISIE] JBN) uunosnyy ystg yuaouT A /SaUA7T Il Or St ¢¢ 3NY 97 a aiez ‘eqeysg ‘aAopuoseyy 1eoKNy (‘][O9 Sul41y, xa) YOK MAN ‘A1OISTF] [eAnjeNy JO Winasny] UROLIOWYy JARPIN “W'S Il eb 6+ L0 PO 8Z oA anez ‘eqeys ‘Jaary ednjn’] BUILT, “CAStH (JBN) Wnesnyy] ysoiig CEACEIN Ba iaits) Ol er 4 L0 PO OF J ae, “eqeyg “oary ednjn’] (2u0savad Jo adA}) Bult], “Caste JBN) wanasnyy ysHiig ABN VES Ol OS 6r 400 0€ W ue “eqeyg ‘oary ednyn’] Ul[19g ‘JeIISIIAIUL) -IPjOquINyy Jap (Danuvjau Jo 9d4}) epunyinjen Inj wunasnyAl Sayostso]oo7Z ANUS O SOI 8b 6r O881 i¢ Bjosuy ‘opunquingd euoy uunasn yf 10399][0E uswynd [ley], sul a1eq xaG AY[BIO'T DANUDIAUL DIOITISI) JO [BI19JBU UMOUYST | aTaVL M. P.S. Irwin 2S Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) remark on the all-black tail and generally blacker rather than brown- tinted feather tracts, and the quite different wing contour to any Cisticola or Apalis we know of (my italics), but did not discuss any other differences. This may seem strange, but J. Vincent, who accompanied Lynes on this and many other expeditions, remarks (im litt.) that once Lynes had dis- missed any likelihood of a bird’s being a Cisticola he could not be bothered further with it. Lynes did say that melanura was probably one of those birds which will not be properly classified until it is known in life, and regretted being unable to add anything substantial about it. The situation remains little different more than half a century later, though we can say with greater confidence now than then, that melanura is indeed a true though somewhat aberrant member of the genus Cisticola. But to what did Lynes refer in his cryptic statement on unusual wing characters that nobody has ever subsequently commented upon? An examination shows that the wings are not only markedly rounded, but that the 5 distal primaries (except the vestigial outermost one) appear highly specialised; the rachis is twice the width of those of fulvicapilla and angusticauda (most noticeably so in males), glossy black and heavily melanised (hard and resistant to pressure), and it was to this that Lynes was undoubtedly referring. The only widely available description of melanura (Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1963) is inadequate, and the more important comparative characters distinguishing it from its closest relatives are given here. The markedly rounded wing has the outermost primary needle-shaped, acute, c. 6 mm exposed beyond the coverts, and the 4th primary (numbered from the outermost) shorter than primaries 5—6. In fulvicapilla the outermost primary is blade-like with c. 15-17 mm exposed; and in angusticauda it is somewhat intermediate, with primaries 3—6 equal in length, with primaries 2—3 narrowed, and the outermost primary narrow and acute (with c. 12 mm exposed). However, in both fulvicapilla and angusticauda the rachis is light brown (not black), of normal width and neither melanised nor stiffened. The tail of melanura is also atypical for the genus, consisting of narrow, jet-black rectrices, grey-tipped below (except the central pair) and lacking the blackish sub- terminal spot characteristic of the other two species; the outermost rectrix is c.24mm shorter than the innermost (central) pair, compared to c. 20 mm shorter in angusticauda and c. 10 mm shorter in fulvicapilla. In melanura the tail is also very narrowly margined brown above and silvery grey below and, more importantly, shows some sexual dimorphism. In the male the outer web of the outermost rectrix is contrastingly off-white (except for the grey tip), while in the female the outermost rectrix is simply edged brown. This character in the male is well shown in Gronvold’s illustration of the type of pearsoni in Ibis, 1910, plate 2, where both sexes are illustrated. On the underparts melanura is colder and whiter, less buffy than either C. f. dispar or angusticauda. There are also size differences separating the three forms and these are set out in Table 2. Despite differences in wing formulae, melanura, angusticauda and dispar are all similar in wing length. In contrast the tail of melanura is shorter than long-tailed angusticauda, the females significantly so, but both are markedly longer than short-tailed dispar. In bill measurements angusticauda is shorter (and finer), while melanura and dispar are similar. M. P. S. Irwin 232 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) TABLE 2 Comparative measurements (range and mean, in mm) of C. melanura, C. angusticauda and C. fulvicapilla dispar Species N Wing Tail Culmen from base melanura M 4 48—49 (48.7) 46-52 (49.9) 10.0-11.5 (10.5) F 6 43-49 (45.9) 40-43 (41.8) 10.0-11.0 (10.8) angusticauda M 50 46-51 (48.1) 48-61 (53.0) 9.5-10.5 (10.0) F 30 41-49 (45.4) 43—54 (47.4) 9.0-10.5 (9.9) dispar M 14 45—50 (48.5) 36-43 (39.0) 10.5-11.0 (10.8) F 4 45-46 (45.2) 35-37 (35.7) 10.5—11.0 (10.7) However, the race dispar has a considerably shorter bill (10.8) than Cup muelleri (11.0—-12.5, mean 11.6) inhabiting lower-rainfall savannas. The bill of melanura is sepia, with the lower mandible flesh-coloured, becoming blacker in skins; the culmen more arched and robust than in either angusticauda or dispar. Moult and seasonal plumage changes The available material shows no evidence of seasonal plumage differ- ences or change from breeding to non-breeding dress. This is in sharp contrast to fulvicapilla and angusticauda, in which there are well-marked seasonal differences. From skulls Lynes (1938) estimated the Nasondoye series to be at least five months old; they are especially fresh-plumaged and cannot be distinguished from those obtained by Neave in late October when breeding should have started. It seems therefore that melanura may have only a single annual moult after breeding and lacks a distinctive nuptial plumage. In contrast both fulvicapilla and angusticauda have two annual body moults, immediately after breeding and again at the commencement of the following breeding season. Remarks on specimens examined by others The type of melanura in Berlin was examined by Dr G. Mauersberger who confirmed (i litt.) that the 5 distal primaries (excluding the outer- most) showed broadened, almost glossy brown-black shafts. Lynes had written on the label that the specimen was not far removed from the birds in the British Museum labelled pearsoni, the only material difference in colour being that pearsoni has the rufous of the head and neck confined to a wash over the mantle, and that both specimens had the same black tail of long narrow rectrices and a very minute needle-shaped outermost primary. M. A. Traylor reporting on the male in Chicago confirms that it also possesses heavy black primary shafts and that the outer web of the outermost rectrix is white proximally, fading to dark grey distally. Stress was also placed on the very rounded wing compared with that of angusticauda, with the primaries seemingly much broader. Stuart Keith (in litt.), reporting on the specimen in New York, confirms that it has the M. P.S. Irwin 233 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) same thickened black outer primary shafts and remarks on the extremely small outermost primary. R. J. Dowsett (7 Jitt.), with Dr M. Louette, examined the two Tervuren specimens, one of them from Nasondoye (ex Tring) and reported on by Lynes (1938), the other from Pay Kikwanga, originally identified by Dr H. Schouteden and labelled in his handwriting. They were compared with a small series of angusticauda in breeding dress which were immediately distinguishable by the brick-red crown and greyish mantle, lacking in melanura. Dowsett concluded that melanura was nevertheless unlikely to be distinct from C. fulvicapilla sensu lato; he later examined the material in Tring but could not convince himself that melanura was a good species, in spite of plumage differences, the rounded wing and the stiffened primaries. Mrs E. H. Stickney (in litt.) compared the two specimens in New Haven, confirming that the black-shafted pri- maries were stiffened and the wing rounded. She also provided colour slides which enabled me to make a clearer assessment. The male has the crown and nape markedly reddish, contrasting strongly with the greyish mantle, and the wing-coverts and outer webs of the primaries and secondaries are undiluted grey. The female differs quite notably: the reddish tones extend over the back and wings, without any grey. Both possess the typical black tail, very noticeable in the male, whereas the female taken later in the season shows distinct signs of wear and abrasion. Lynes, comparing the type of melanura with pearsont, noted that in the latter the rufous of the hind-neck was confined to a wash over the mantle, and from this it is assumed that melanura was the greyer of the two. Chapin (1953) also noted that the back may be greyer in the bird from Angola, more reddish-brown in that from Katanga. The male at New Haven seems to confirm this and the type of melanura, though unsexed, is from its size almost certainly a male (wing 49, tail 48). However, the contrastingly reddish tones of the single female cannot simply be put down to individual variation. There may possibly be additional sexual dimorphism in the Angolan population, and there may be geographical variation between the Angolan and Zairean isolates. However, it 1s not possible to pursue the matter at this stage with the very limited material available. The bird in life Those observers who have seen melanura in life have been struck by its distinctive habits, but have never compared it directly with fulvicapilla or angusticauda. Neave (1910a) found it not uncommon on the Lufupa River at the end of October, which would be the start of the breeding season. It was encountered usually in pairs and inhabited rather tall (author’s italics) trees, not bushes in woodland; it was very conspicuous on the wing, and flew with a clicking sound, exactly as if it were going by clock- work. Heinrich (in Ripley & Heinrich 1960) found it near Cacolo in the continuous dry woods of the plateau, mostly in the neighbourhood of grassy clearings. It was neither very elusive nor difficult to observe, usually dwelling in the branches and crowns of lower trees, searching the foliage in the manner of an Apalis, for which it was mistaken several times. When disturbed or excited, they flipped their wings with a purring noise. M.P.S. Irwin 234 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) Specimens were obtained in the middle of the breeding season (a female ready to lay in early January). Lynes (1938) reported on it very briefly but never saw it alive. J. Vincent (zm litt.) personally collected the only ones seen in late August before the onset of the breeding season, and wrote in his original field notes: “‘Both the ‘pairs’ of melanura which I watched (and shot) spent all the time poking about low down and kept up a con- tinuous, small ‘wisping’ squeak very like that uttered by the Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis’. Vincent also reports that there was no wing snapping as recorded by others, and this and the marked difference in behaviour may have reflected the time of year. Like Heinrich, he also remarked on the similarity in life between melanura and Apalis. Hall & Moreau (1970) quoted Vincent as saying melanura was quite uncisticoline in life. Dean et al. (1988) saw two birds in a mixed-species foraging flock in August in climax Brachystegia boehmii woodland, but the record needs verification. It is not possible to draw any clear conclusions from these obser- vations except that the species does appear to behave differently from its nearest relatives. It also seems highly probable that the unique wing specialization is connected with display flights in the breeding season. Sympatry with fulvicapilla and angusticauda Within the miombo biome fulvicapilla and angusticauda behave as allo- species with a narrow zone of hybridization in Zambia (Benson et al. 1971). Within their respective ranges they are believed to be continuously distributed in suitable habitat (see map in Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire 1980), making due allowance for unmapped areas. Their overall distri- bution is shown on map 199 in Hall & Moreau (1970) and that for melanura (as Apalis melanura) on map 214. However, attention must be drawn to the corrections on map 214 under Corrigenda in Snow (1978). If the latter map is superimposed on the former it shows that melanura either replaces angusticauda locally in parts of Shaba or is sympatric with it. It seems significant that neither Neave (1910a) nor Lynes (1938) ever reported angusticauda on the upper Lufupa River where it would cer- tainly be expected to occur, and Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire (op. cit.) remark that it is strange that melanura has never been recorded in adjacent Zambia where angusticauda is common. Being more similar to one another than either is to fulvicapilla, they may replace each other locally. However, it can now be shown conclusively that in at least one Angolan locality melanura and C. f. dispar are fully sympatric. Mrs E. H. Stickney (in litt.) reports that apart from the two melanura specimens from near Cacolo, there is also a single specimen of dispar collected there by Heinrich on 29 December 1957, showing that they must occur alongside one another there. Remarks on collecting localities Doubt surrounds a number of localities where melanura has been recorded, and there is need for clarification. The type locality of melanura long given simply as Angola, or more specifically northern Angola, was M. P.S. Irwin 235 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) restricted by Irwin (1990) to Mona Quimbundo, in Lunda Province at 09°55’S, 19°58’E. The type locality of pearsoni was given somewhat imprecisely by Neave (1909) as the Lufupa River, western Katanga. Neave (1910b) provided a detailed map of his journey; he crossed the Lufupa River twice on its upper reaches, but the map is not helpful in pinpointing where precisely his specimens were collected. How- ever, Lynes (1938) regarded his specimens from near Nasondoye at 10°30’S, 25°00’E as being topotypes, and Nasondoye may be con- veniently regarded as the restricted type locality. It should be noted that the Neave and Lynes material was mapped separately in Hall & Moreau (1970), later corrected in Snow (1978). Irwin (1990) has already noted that the Heinrich specimens (Ripley & Heinrich 1960), stated to have been collected 50 km southwest of Cacolo, were actually obtained only 15 km to the southwest with approximate co-ordinates 10°00’S, 19°24’E. Some doubt also surrounds the Boulton specimen from Cazoa which M. A. Traylor (im litt.) was unable to trace on any map. However, he has kindly informed me that from the collector’s itinerary and field notebooks it appears to have been in Lunda between Caxia at c. 08°54'S, 20°39'E and the crossing of the Rio Cassai at c. 11°12’S, 20°15’E. The locality Cafunfo, in Rosa Pinto (1973), has not been precisely located, but from his text, where it is mentioned with some frequency, it must be somewhere in the north of Angolain Lunda along the Cuango River. (According to M. A. Traylor (in litt.), the Cacolo specimen listed therein was almost certainly collected by Heinrich who deposited anumber of specimens in the Museu do Dundo.) Finally Dean et al. (1988) giveasight record from Kangandala National Park in Malange, which (if verified, see above) would extend the range of the species westwards. They give only co-ordinates for Kangandala village at 09°47'S, 16°28’E, which may be used as an approximate position. Relationships The degree of relationship between C. fulvicapilla and C. angusticauda on the one hand and C. melanura on the other is especially difficult to assess. Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire (1980) were quite emphatic that the first two are conspecific, and few would deny (including the present writer) that in life they seem identical in habits, behaviour and similarity of voice. Yet if they were merely geographical representatives of a single variable species it would be difficult to reconcile not just differences in plumage but structural aspects (wing formulae and structure, and tail-length and proportions). But it is worth pointing out that whereas fulvicapilla is highly polytypic and wide-ranging, angusticauda (also wide- ranging) 1s virtually endemic to miombo and shows no geographical variation. At the same time there are equally and undeniably close similarities between angusticauda and melanura (though not in behaviour), which in some respects seem structurally closer to one another than either is to fulvicapilla. And whereas fulvicapilla and angusticauda have parapatric ranges with an apparent narrow hybrid zone, angusticauda and melanura appear mutually exclusive. C. melanura on the other hand is known to be at least partially sympatric with C. f. dispar and they cannot be treated as M. P. S. Irwin 236 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) conspecific. The little that is known of melanura in life, together with its specialised wing morphology, points to its being adapted to a life-style different from either fulvicapilla or angusticauda. These facts further emphasise our present lack of knowledge and proper understanding of the relationships and evolutionary history of this group of cisticoline warblers. Acknowledgements I am most grateful to Mr G. S. Cowles and Mr P. R. Colston of the Bird Room staff, Tring, who made available facilities for study. I must also thank all those who examined specimens in their care on my behalf, among them Dr G. Mauersberger of the Zoologisches Museum fur Naturkunde der Humboldt-Universitat, Berlin; Dr M. Louette of the Koninklijk Museum voor Midden-Afrika, Tervuren; Major M. A. Traylor of the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago; Mr Stuart Keith of the American Museum of Natural History, New York; and Mrs E. H. Stickney of the Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University, New Haven; and finally Mr R. J. Dowsett who looked at material on my behalf in both Tervuren and Tring. I am also most grateful to Professor C. H. Fry and Mr Stuart Keith for helpful comments on a draft of this paper. References: Benson, C. W., Brooke, R. K., Dowsett, R. J. & Irwin, M. P. S. 1971. The Birds of Zambia. Collins. Chapin, J. P. 1953. Birds of the Belgian Congo, Part 3. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 75A: 1-786. Dean, W.R.J., Huntley, M. A., Huntley, B. J. & Vernon, C. J. 1988. Notes on some birds of Angola. Durban Mus. Novit. 14: 43-92. Dowsett, R. J. & Dowsett-Lemaire, F. 1980. The systematic status of some Zambian birds. Gerfaut 70: 151-199. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. British Museum (Natural History). Irwin, M. P. S. 1990. On Cisticola melanura and its type locality. Honeyguide 36: 54. Lynes, H. 1930. Review of the genus Cisticola. Ibis, supplement. Lynes, H. 1936. Cisticola angusticauda not Apalis angusticauda. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 56: 112-113. Lynes, H. 1938. Contribution to the ornithology of the southern Belgian Congo. Rev. Zool. Bot. Afr. 31: 1-128. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1963. Birds of the Southern Third of Africa. Vol. 2. Longman. Neave, S. A. 1909. On some new species of birds from Katanga, Congo Free State. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist., ser. 8, 4: 130. Neave, S. A. 1910a. On the birds of Northern Rhodesia and Katanga District of Congoland. Ibis (9)4: 78-155. Neave, S. A. 1910b. Zoological collections from Northern Rhodesia and adjacent territories: Lepidoptera Rhopalocera. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1910: 1-86. Ripley, S. D. & Heinrich, G. H. 1960. Additions to the avifauna of northern Angola. Postilla 47: 1- Rosa Pinto, A. A. da. 1973. Aves da coleccao do Museu do Dundo. Comp. de Cia Diamang de Angola: 131-177. Schouteden, H. 1965. La faune ornithologique de la Province du Kwango. Mus. Royal Afr. Centr.—Doc. Zool. 8. Snow, D. W. (ed.) 1978. An Atlas of Speciation in African Non-passerine Birds. (Corrigenda, p. 384.) British Museum (Natural History). White, C. M. N. 1962. A check list of Ethiopian Muscicapidae (Sylviinae). Part 2. Occ. Paps Nat. Mus. S. Rhodesia 26B: 653-738. Address: M.P.S. Irwin, P.O. Box BW 122, Borrowdale, Harare, Zimbabwe- © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 F.S. Ash & G. Nikolaus 237) Bull. B.O.C.1991 111(4) Desert Sparrows Passer simplex in the Sudan by ¥. S. Ash & G. Nikolaus Received 19 February 1991 In his excellent monograph on the sparrows Passer spp. of the world Summers-Smith (1988), in discussing the Desert Sparrow Passer simplex, concluded that since the last century it appears to have become extinct in the Sudan, where its type locality is situated. Previously it was found in the north of this country south to Sennar (13°30/N, 33°37’E) on the Blue Nile, east to the Red Sea at Suakim (= Suakin) (19°05’N, 37°20’E), and west to the Libyan border (Cave & Macdonald 1955, Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1955, Nikolaus 1987, Vaurie 1956). The notion that Desert Sparrows have disappeared from the Sudan is emphasised by Mackworth-Praed & Grant (loc. cit.) who, in describing its former distribution, add “‘but not recorded for the last 100 years’’; and Cave & Macdonald (loc. cit.) remark ‘‘Said to have occurred long ago... possibly still occurring in extreme north-west.’’ Etchecopar & Hue (1964) go further by stating that it does not occur east of Ennedi (in Chad). Desert Sparrows have actually been recorded on several occasions in the Sudan this century, but apparently none of them has been published. They were seen as recently as 1986 and quite probably have never been absent, rather than that they are re-establishing themselves. ‘The following 9 records are known from the period 1935-1986. 1. 1935-1954. P. Hogg (zm litt.) only found Desert Sparrows once, in the Jebel Meidob area (c. 15°20'N, 26°30’E), and also to the north of it in the one-degree squares of 16°N, 26°E, where they bred, and 17°N, 26°E. 2. 1958-1961. P. Dare (im Iitt.), when travelling from Khartoum to Dongola, recorded the species in one-degree square 17°N, 31°E. 3. 1 April 1964. J. E. Jany (im Iitt.), travelling from Omdurman to Dongola, saw a few in the tops of old acacia trees at the desert well of Ganetti (18°00’N, 31°16’E), south of Debba. 4. December 1982. GN in one-degree square 15°N, 31°E, en route from Khartoum to Dongola, saw a pair in an open sandy area with scattered Acacia nubica bushes. 5. December 1982. GN in one-degree square 16°N, 31°E, en route from Khartoum to Dongola, found a pair in similar habitat to no. 3 above. 6. December 1982. GN in one-degree square 17°N, 31°E, en route from Khartoum to Dongola, saw 2 pairs in an open sandy area with scattered Tundub bushes Capparis decidua. They were accompanied by a Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca, a species overwintering in the area. 7. January 1983. GN in one-degree square 15°N, 31°E, at 60 km NW of Khartoum, saw a male sheltering in an old stick nest, probably of Spreo pulcher, in a tall acacia in a wadi in open sandy grassland. 8. 26 September 1986. JSA & GN at 17°19/N, 31°17’E, 92 km SSE of Debba (18°05’N, 30°45’E), found 4 (294, 299) in the vicinity of a pole and grass desert tea-house and its associated buildings. F. S. Ash & G. Nikolaus 238 Bull. BOC. 1991 111(4) 9. 26 September 1986. JSA & GN at 16°55’/N, 31°29’E, 144km SSE of Debba, found a pair at an untidy domed nest with at least 2 recently hatched pulli at 3m height in a Tundub bush. The female was taking insects to the nest. Lynes (1924-1925), visiting the above and adjoining areas (North and Central Darfur, West and Central Kordofan, and North Nuba Province), did not record Desert Sparrows; nor did J. F. Madden (personal notes) working around Dongola (19°20'N, 30°29’E) in 1947-1951. From local accounts the area in which we saw birds had become increasingly desertified in recent years; previously it had been inhabited by stock-owning people. All that remained in 1986 were scattered small bushes, slightly more prolific at the second site in a barely discernible shallow wadi, and elsewhere some ruined and deserted habitations. Summers-Smith (loc. cit.) states that this sparrow exists at greater density where there are larger trees, so that the present apparently small population appears to occupy less than optimal habitat. It is also interest- ing that it was breeding at the hottest time of the year. A few days earlier at Wadi Halfa (21°55’N, 31°20’E) daily shade temperature maxima had ranged from 45° to 50°C, and it seemed to be no less hot in the present area, where bushes were ringed with dead and dying Palearctic migrants of which 19 species were found. ‘The means by which the effective incubation temperature is maintained at such high ambient temperatures requires investigation, although Sopyev (1965) shows that the time spent incubating by Desert Sparrows is reduced when outside temperatures rise. Desert Sparrows seem always to have been rare and poorly known in the Sudan. The long periods when there were no records at the end of the last century and the first half of this one could have resulted from lack of observation and/or recording, rather than a total absence of birds. Probably it has had a continuous presence in the Sudan since it was originally discovered there and the observations quoted above do not imply a recolonisation. Like other desert species, Desert Sparrows are probably partly nomadic and numbers in any one area, and their distribution, may vary from year to year. Acknowledgements We thank Dr J. D. Summers-Smith for his comments on this paper, and the following who kindly allowed their observations to be included here: P. Dare, P. Hogg and J. E. Jany. References: Cave, F. O. & Macdonald, J. D. 1955. Birds of the Sudan. Oliver & Boyd. Etchécopar, R. D. & Hue, F. 1964. Les Oiseaux du Nord del’ Afrique. Editions N. Boubeée & Cie. Lynes, H. 1924-1925. On the birds of North and Central Darfur with notes on the West and Central Kordofan and North Nuba Provinces of British Sudan. Ibis (11)6: 399-446, 648-719; (12)1: 71-131, 344-416, 541-590, 757-797. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1952, 1955. African Handbook of Birds, Series 1, Vols 1 & 2. Birds of Eastern and North Eastern Africa. Longman. Nikolaus, G. 1987. Distribution atlas of Sudan’s birds with notes on habitat and status. Bonn. Zool. Monogr. no. 25. Sopyev, O. 1965. The Desert Sparrow in Kara-Kum. Ornitologiya 7: 134-141. Summers-Smith, J. D. 1988. The Sparrows: a study of the genus Passer. T. & A. D. Poyser. Books Received 239 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) Vaurie, C. 1956. Systematic notes on Palearctic birds, No. 24. Ploceidae; the genera Passer, Petronia and Montifringilla. Am. Mus. Novit. no. 1814. Addresses: Dr J. S. Ash, Godshill Wood, Fordingbridge, Hants SP62LR, U.K.; G. Nikolaus, Bosenbittel 4, Spieka 2859, Germany. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 BOOKS RECEIVED Brooke, M. & Birkhead, T. (eds) 1991. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Ornithology. Pp. 362. Numerous text-figures in colour and black-and-white, diagrams and maps. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0521 36205 9. £24.95. 28 x 27 cm. An attractive, and also intellectually stimulating, volume which presents a scientific and at the same time very readable survey of the whole of ornithology in 362 pages—a formidable achievement which is accomplished by reducing the systematic survey of bird families, usually the main part of a book of this sort, to 35 pages (the passerine families are merely listed) and dealing mainly with subjects. The various chapters, or parts of chapters, are by 39 contributors, many of them leading specialists. Special topics (e.g. tool-using, food- caching, factors influencing bird distribution, niches and ecological segregation) are dealt with in ‘information panels’ interspersed in appropriate places in the text. Thus this is not an alphabetically arranged encyclopedia of traditional type, but the comprehensive index in three parts (scientific names, common names, subjects) enables the reader to run down information relatively easily. References are confined to a 3-page list of ‘Further reading’. For a stimulating survey of recent research in ornithology, and underlying biological principles, this book could not easily be bettered; but the large format and square shape make it easier to put on a coffee table than in its rightful place on a personal library shelf. Holmes, D. 1990. The Birds of Sumatra and Kalimantan. Pp. xii+ 83. 25 colour plates. Oxford University Press. ISBN 0 19 588971 1. £6.95. 19.5 x 13 cm. This brief but useful introduction to the birds of Sumatra and the Indonesian part of Borneo does not aim to be comprehensive; 148 species are described and a further 129 referred to more briefly. The colour plates, by Stephen Nash, illustrate a good selection of mainly forest birds, and some others are illustrated in black-and-white text-figures. It is planned to produce an Indonesian language edition, in the hope of stimulating greater local interest in a rich and, inevitably, threatened avifauna. Inskipp, C. & T. 1991. A Guide to the Birds of Nepal. Pp. 400. 8 colour plates, numerous text-figures and maps. Christopher Helm. ISBN 0 7136 8109 8. £35.00. 25 x 19 cm. An updated edition of the excellent book published in 1985. It follows the first edition closely; but one more species has now been added to the list (now 836 species), much new information has been incorporated into the text, and the invaluable distribution maps (increased from 676 to 703) have been improved, especially by new records from the pre- viously very little-known west of the country. The 8 colour plates are unchanged except for an improved plate of buntings, and additional species are illustrated in text-figures. For those who do not know the first edition, it may be mentioned that this is not a field-guide; the emphasis is on distribution, but there is a useful 49-page section, with clear line drawings, on the identification of difficult groups (mainly birds of prey, waders, gulls, owls, wagtails, pipits, warblers, rosefinches and buntings), and the colour plates illustrate difficult warblers, rosefinches and buntings. The visibly most obvious change is that the text is set in ‘proper’ print instead of the camera-ready type-face of the old edition, with the consequence that it is much easier and pleasanter to read and also more economical of space; hence the amplified text takes almost exactly the same number of pages as before. Phillips, A. R. 1991. The Known Birds of North and Middle America. Part 11, Bombycillidae; Sylviidae to Sturnidae; Vireonidae. Pp. liii+ 249.5 colour plates. Published by the author (3540 S. Hillcrest Dr. no. 5, Denver, Colorado 80237). ISBN 0 9617402 1 3. $64.00. Da SEN This is the second part of a highly individual and outspoken work, the first part of which was published, also by the author, in 1986 (see Ibis 129: 586-587). The rather surprising title Books Received 240 Bull. B.O.C. 1991 111(4) was chosen to make a point, that in the author’s opinion all the birds of North and Middle America are not accurately known; by this he means principally that the ranges and charac- ters of all the subspecies have not been properly worked out, and that some forms treated as subspecies may be full species. In a remarkable 36-page introduction Phillips discusses at length the reasons why he has for many years been “‘agin’ the government’’, the government being the AOU, National Science Foundation and other ornithological and scientific organ- izations. He does not mince his words, and it is perhaps not surprising, though regrettable, that the hostility has been mutual. One of his main contentions is that much more collecting is still needed; he advocates traditional, museum-based ornithology, and denounces what he sees as modern scientific fads. The main text consists of a systematic treatment of seven families, with the emphasis on distribution (including migrations) and geographical variation, the two most important in number of American species being the Muscicapidae (subfamily Turdinae) and Vireonidae. A mass of information is presented; many previous errors are pointed out, and 45 new subspecies are described. The five colour plates illustrate selected plumages of thrushes, bluebirds and vireos. The title page mentions the cooperation of D. D. Gibson (who contributed the short sections on the Muscicapinae, Prunella, Motacilla and Anthus), K. C. Parkes, M. A. Ramos and A. M. Rea, and the help of many others is acknowledged; but first and foremost this is a personal manifesto and minutely detailed systematic work by a traditional avian taxonomist who deplores most of what has been happening in ornithology in recent decades. NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS Papers, from Club Members or non-members, should be sent to the Editor, Dr D. W. Snow, The Old Forge, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 4PD, U.K., and must be offered solely to the Bulletin. They should be typed on one side of the paper, with treble-spacing and a wide margin, and submitted in duplicate. The style and lay-out should conform with usage in this or recent issues of the Bulletin. Informants of unpublished observations should be cited by initials and name only, e.g. ““. .. of grass (C. Dieter)’’, but ““P. Wee informs me that ...’’. A limited number of photographic illustrations in black-and-white may be published annu- ally at the Editor’s discretion. Authors are requested to give their title, initials, name and full address at the end of the paper. An author wishing to introduce a new name or describe a new form should append nom., gen., sp. or subsp. nov., as appropriate, and set out the sup- porting evidence under the headings “‘Description’’, ‘“‘Distribution’’, ‘““Type’’, ““Measurements of type”’ and “‘Material examined’’, plus any others needed. 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Farnsworth, Hammerkop, Frogmill, Hurley, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 5NL, U.K.., or credited direct to the Club’s bank account—No. 10211540, Sort Code 200087, at Barclays Prime Account, P.O. Box 125, Northampton NN1 1SO, U.K.., with confirmation to the Hon. Treasurer. All payments are net and should be in Sterling if possible. Payment in other currencies must include a further £3 for U.K. Bank Charges (except for annual rates in U.S. Dollars which are inclusive). CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence about Club Meetings and on all other matters should go to the Hon. Secretary, Mrs A. M. Moore, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6JB, U.K. CONTENTS CLUBNOTICES Meetings, The Chairman’s Address ............. /BIBBY, C. J. & DEL NEVO, A.J. A first record of Pterodroma feae from thes AZores . eee ee OE he A NOVAES, F.C. A new subspecies of Grey-cheeked Nunlet Nonnula rufjicapilla from Brazilian’ Amazoniaz: -)s).44 ns eos PETRY, M. V., BENCKE, G. A. & KLEIN, G. N. First record of the Shy Albatross Diomedea cauta for the Brazilian coast ............ HINKELMANN, C., NICOLAI, B. & DICKERMAN,R.W. Notesonahitherto unknown specimen of Neolesbia nehrkorni (Berlepsch, 1887; Trochilidae) with a discussion of the hybrid origin of this SSDECIES ee et Ne CN BRO NEAT SUES AIAN Cero one a CABOT, J. Distribution and habitat selection of Buteo polyosoma and B. poecilochrous in Bolivia and neighbouring countries .. . WALSH, J. F. On the occurrence of the Black Stork Ciconia nigra in WeestiAtrica a: Sete), Bde tiara as Aisi hrs Rian Ua aes ee ae SCHODDE, R. ‘The Asian Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica affinis in Australiag ia ese e se ies de MMe alain G. ne a CLANCEY, P. A. ‘The generic status of Roberts’ Prinia of the south- eastern Afrotropics));, 4526 34 Ak wae Ea eas OLSON, S. L. Remarks on the fossil record and suprageneric no- menclature of barbets (Aves: Ramphastidae) ............... YOUNG, G. Sexual dimorphism in Meller’s Duck Anus melleri .... IRWIN, M. P.S. The specific characters of the Slender-tailed Cisti- cola Cisticola melanura (Cabanis) ..............000e00eenes ASH, J. S. & NIKOLAUS, G. Desert Sparrows Passer simplex in the Sur earn 8 oe aa oleae ge coal ae a Ulan ic 183 187 189 190 199 209 JM) 217 222 225 228 The Bulletin is despatched from the printers on publication and is sent by Surface Saver Postal Services to all European destinations outside the U.K. and by Air Saver Postal Services to destinations outside Europe. Those whose subscriptions have not been received by the beginning of a month of publication will have their copies despatched by surface mail, after their current subscription has been paid. COMMITTEE R. E. F. Peal (Chairman) (1989) D. Griffin (Vice-Chairman) (1990) Dr D. W. Snow (Editor) (1991) S.J. Farnsworth ( Treasurer) (1990) Mrs A. M. Moore (Hon. Secretary) (1989) Revd T. W. Gladwin (1990) Cdr M. B. Casement, OBE, RN (1990) Dr J. F. Monk (1991) Dr R. A. Cheke (1991) UK Data Protection Act. In order to keep records up to date and to facilitate despatch of the Bulletin names and addresses of Members and Subscribers, and no other information, are held on computer disc. If there is any objection to this please advise the Hon. Secretary in writing so that records can be deleted from the disc and stored manually. Published by the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB and printed by Henry Ling Ltd., at the Dorset Press, Dorchester, Dorset Gl GF RECS Bigs BULLETIN of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB EDITED BY Dr D.W. SNOW Volume 111 1991 il OFFICERS OF THE BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB P. L. SCLATER Lord ROTHSCHILD W. L. SCLATER H. F. WITHERBY Dr P. R. Lowe Maj. S.S. FLOWER Dr D. A. BANNERMAN G. M. MaTHEws Dr A. LANDSBOROUGH ‘THOMSON D. SETH-SMITH Dr J. M. Harrison Sir PHttip MANSON-BaHR Lord ROTHSCHILD W. L. SCLATER H. F. WITHERBY G. M. MatHEws N. B. KINNEAR H. WHISTLER D. SETH-SMITH Col. R. SPARROW Dr G. CARMICHAEL Low Hon. Guy CHARTERIS W. L. ScLATER Dr D. A. BANNERMAN Capt. C. H. B. GRANT B. W. TUCKER F. J. F. BakRINGTON Dr E. HOPKINSON C. W. MackworTH-PRAED Dr J. M. Harrison Sir PHitip MANSON-BAHR B. G. HarrRIsON R. BOWDLER-SHARPE W. R. OGILviE-GRANT Dr D. A. BANNERMAN D. SETH-SMITH Dr P. R. Lowe N. B. KINNEAR Dr G. CARMICHAEL Low Capt. C. H. B. GRANT Dr G. CaRMICHAEL Low HowarD SAUNDERS W. E. De WINTON H. F. WITHERBY Dr P. R. Lowe C. G. TaLBotT-PONSONBY PAST AND PRESENT Chairmen 1892-1913 Col. R. MEINERTZHAGEN 1953-1956 1913-1918 C. W. MackworTH-PRAED 1956-1959 1918-1924 Capt. C. R.S. PITMAN 1959-1962 1924-1927 Maj.-Gen. C. B. WaINWRIGHT1962-1965 1927-1930 R.S. R. FIrtTer 1965-1968 1930-1932 Dr J. F. Monk 1968-1971 1932-1935 Sir HuGcu ELLiottT 1971-1974 1935-1938 J. H. ELcoop 1974-1977 P. Hoce 1977-1980 1938-1943 D. R. CaLDER 1980-1983 1943-1946 B. Gray 1983-1986 1946-1950 Revd G. K. McCuLLocu 1986-1989 1950-1953 R. E. F. Peau 1989- Vice-Chairmen 1930-1931 Lt.-Col. W. P.C. TENISON 1947-1948 1931-1932 Miss E. M. GopMAN 1947-1948 1932-1933 Col. R. MEINERTZHAGEN 1948-1949 1933-1934 Maj. A. G. L. SLADEN 1948-1949 1934-1935 Col. R. MEINERTZHAGEN 1949-1953 1935-1936 E. M. NicHoLsOoNn 1953-1956 1936-1937 Capt. C. R. S. PITMAN 1956-1959 1937-1938 Mrs B. P. Hatt 1959-1962 1938-1939 R.S.R. Firrer 1962-1965 1938-1939 Dr J. F. Monk 1965-1968 1939-1940 Sir HuGH ELLiotr 1968-1971 1939-1940 J. H. ELcoop 1971-1974 1940-1943 P. Hoce 1974-1977 1940-1943 Dr G. Bevan 1977-1980 1943-1945 B. Gray 1980-1983 1943-1945 Revd G. K. McCu.LLocu 1983-1986 1945-1946 D. GRIFFIN 1986-1989 1945-1946 J. H. ELGoop 1989-1990 1946-1947 D. GRIFFIN 1990- 1946-1947 Editors 1892-1904 Lt.-Col. W. P.C. TENISON 1945-1947 1904-1914 Capt. C. H. B. Grant 1947-1952 1914-1915 Dr J. G. Harrison 1952-1961 1915-1920 J. J. YEALLAND 1962-1969 1920-1925 C. W. BENSON 1969-1974 1925-1930 Sir HuGH ELLiotr 1974-1975 1930-1935 Dr J. F. Monk 1976-1990 1935-1940 Dr D. W. SNow 1991— 1940-1945 Honorary Secretaries and Treasurers 1892-1899 Dr PuiLip GossE 1919-1920 1899-1904 J. L. BoNHOTE 1920-1922 1904-1914 C. W. MackworTH-PRAED 1922-1923 1914-1915 Dr G. CARMICHAEL Low 1923-1929 1915-1918 C.W. MackwortH-PraED 1929-1935 1918-1919 Dr D. A. BANNERMAN ill Honorary Secretaries Dr A. LANDSBOROUGH N. J. P. WaDLEY 1950-1960 THomson 1935-1938 Miss E. FORSTER 1960-1962 C. R. STONOR 1938-1940 Dr J. G. Harrison 1962-1964 N. B. KINNEAR 1940-1943 C. J. O. Harrison 1964-1965 Dr G. CARMICHAEL Low 1943-1945 M. W. Woopcock 1965-1969 Lt.-Col. W.P.C. TENISON 1945-1947 D. R. CALDER 1969-1971 Capt. C. H. B. GRANT 1947 R. E. F. Peat 1971-1989 W. E. GLEGG 1947-1949 Mrs A. M. Moore 1989— Miss G. M. RHODEs 1950 Honorary Treasurers C.W. MackworTH-PrAED = 1935-1936 P{VATE 1962-1974 Maj. A. G. L. SLADEN 1936-1942 M.St/J/Suce 1974-1978 Miss E. P. LEACH 1942-1949 Mrs D. M. BraDLey 1978-1990 C. N. WALTER 1950-1962 S.J. FARNSWORTH 1990— COMMITTEE Elected 21 May 1991 R. E. F. PEAL Chairman (1989) Reverend T. W. GLADWIN (1990) Dr D. W. SNOW Editor (1991) D. GRIFFIN Vice-Chairman (1990) Mrs A. M. MOORE Hon. Secretary S.J. FARNSWORTH Hon. Treasurer (1989) (1990) Cdr M. B. CASEMENT, 0.B.E., R.N., Dr R. A. CHEKE (19917) RETD. (1990) Dr J. F. MONK (1991) CHANGES IN MEMBERSHIP 1991 New Members C. L. Bonfield F.M.Gauntlett K.J. McGowan P. Straw N. J. Bucknell D. J. Glaves B.-U. Meyburg J. D. Summers-Smith R. Costas P. D. Goriup G. Micali E. P. Toyne D. E. Crockett C. J. Hazevoet D. Peakall H. T. Tutak A.R. Daniel ID), cen S. Proctor S. van Balen J. de Schutter-Bart E. S. Jamnicky P. B. Riddett M. Verhaagh M. Eens R. M. Jones W. F. Rohr C. A. Viney D.S. Fitzpatrick C. Kostense M. B. Shaw R. Walters J. A. Flynn O. Lindblad D. T. Smith C. J. Whittles N.R. Fuggles-Couchman N.V.McCanch P.W. Smith M.S. Witter S. Fulford J. E. McCarthy J. T. Stenwig Re-elected P. Ashton, A. Hill, J. W. W. Metcalfe, J. L. Woodson Deaths The Committee very much regrets to report the deaths of the following Members (see Report of the Committee for 1991): Major N. A. G. H. Beal, R.M., (Member 1947— 1951, 1979-1991), Major I. R. Grimwood, O.B.E., (Member 1956-1991), N. Mayaud (Member 1929-1991), Dr A. Prigogine, (Member 1957-1991), Professor Dr E. Schiuz, (Member 1954-1991), Professor Dr H. Sick, (Member 1980-1991). Resignations in respect of 1991 P.R. Boardman, H. M. Davies, L. J. H. Flack, J. D. Goulding, N. R. McLean, D. Roberts, J. B. Smith, B. C. Turner, A. Vittery. Removed from membership under Rule (7) M. D. Bruce, J. E. du Pont, M. C. Edwards, C. D. B. Gibbons, H. S. Gibbons, N. C. S. Jackson, C. Kelly, M. Lambertini, R. J. W. Ledgerton, R. Massa, H. Meeus, X. Montbailliu, J. O'Halloran, M. Pesente, N. M. Powell, P. Rollin, D. Siegal-Causey, H. W. Wigley, R. P. S. Wolsey, S. J. Woolfall. 1960 1986 1983 1984 1988 1984 1979 1980 1989 1978 1980 1990 1983 1980 1976 1986 1978 1974 1981 1969 1986 1986 1986 1986 1991 1990 1951 1991 1989 1987 1985 1979 1989 1976 1982 1976 1976 1966 1979 1986 1982 1980 1985 1991 1990 1958 1986 1981 1966 1985 1981 1956-70, 1986 1953 1985 1980 1990 1989 1966 1987 1988 1986 1987 1979 1981 1991 1976 1V BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB LIST OF MEMBERS paid up at 31 December 1991 Apams, J. K.; 95 Alleyn Park, LONDON SE21 8AA (Committee 1971-1973) Apcock, M. A.; ‘The Saltings’’, 53 Victoria Drive, Great Wakering, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, Essex SS3 OAT AGUILLO Cano, I. F.; Apartado 129, 26200 Haro (La Rioja), Spain Aip.ey, Dr D. J.; The Old Woolpack, Morley St. Botolph, wyMONDHAM, Norfolk NR18 9AA ALBERTI, P.; Via B Cellini 10, 21052 Busto arsizi0, Italy ALBRECHT, J. S. M.; 12 Hemingford Road, CAMBRIDGE CB1 3BZ Aber, J. R.; Burngate, Peckons Hill, Ludwell, Nr sHarresBury, Dorset SP7 ORN ALLIson, R.; The Laurels, Manchester Road, Sway, LYMINGTON, Hants SO4 0AS ALLport, G.; The Homestead, The Green, Old Buckenham, Nr ATTLEBOROUGH, Norfolk NR17 1SF ALTMAN, Dr A. B.; PO Box 441, GREAT BARRINGTON, MA 01230-0441, USA Amapon, Dr D.; American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St, NEW yorK, NY 10024, USA ANDERTON, W.N.; 16 Skipton Road, Embsay, sk1PToN, N. Yorkshire BD23 6QL ANDREW, P.; PO Box 153, NORTH SYDNEY, NSW 2060, Australia ANTRAM, F. B. S.; c/o Traffic (Australia), 53 Sydney Road, PO Box 799, MANLY, NSW 2095, Australia ARITA ICHIRO; 23 ban 1go 5F, Minami Aoyama 4 chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107, Japan Arvortt, N. A.; Hill House, School Road, TILNEY ST LAWRENCE, Norfolk Asu, Dr J. S.; Godshill Wood, FoRDINGBRIDGE, Hants SP6 2LR ASHTON, P. J.; National Institution for Water Research, CSIR, PO Box 395, preroria 0001, South Africa ASPINWALL, Dr D. R.; PO Box 50653, RIDGEWay 15101, Zambia BackuHurst, G. C.; PO Box 24702, NarRoBI, Kenya Bain, Major P. M.; 15 Witham Bank East, Boston, Lincs PE21 9JU Baker, E. W.; 10 Rose Grove, Roman Bank, sKEGNEss, Lincs PE25 1SH Baker, Miss H.; 27 Pheasants Way, RICKMANSWORTH, Herts WD3 2EX Baker, N. E.; Aquila Engineering Services, PO Box 23404, DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania BaLEN, S. Van; PO Box 47, BoGor 16001, Indonesia Barber, R. A. H.; HQ 107 BDE, BFPO 825 BarLow, Capt. Sir THomas, Bt., D.S.C., R.N.; 45 Shepherds Hill, Highgate, LONDON N6 Bart, M. de SCHUTTER; Ouderstraat 18-20, 2610 wiLrijk, Belgium Bates, J. M.; Museum of Natural Science, 119 Foster Hall, Louisiana State University, BATON ROUGE, LA 70803, USA Baytis, A. H.; 135 Fairbridge Road, LONDON N19 3HF BEAKBANE, Mrs A. J.; 26 Cathcart Road, LONDON SW10 9NN Beaman, M.A.S.; Two Jays, Kemple End, Birdy Brow, stoNyHurRSsT, Lancs BB6 9QY Beck, B. H.; 25 St Thomas, West Parade, BEXHILL ON SEA, Sussex TN39 3YA BECKING, J. H.; Ericalaan 7, 6703 EM waGENINGEN, Netherlands BeEeEcrorT, R.; 2 Fen Cottages, Fen Lane, Creeting St Mary, 1pswicu, Suffolk IP6 8QE Beer, T.; Tawside, 30 Park Avenue, BARNSTAPLE, Devon EX31 2ES BeLMan, P. J.; Number Two, School Passage, SOUTHALL, Middx UB1 2DR BENNETT, P.; 29 Loop Road South, WHITEHAVEN, Cumbria Beton, K. F.; 8 Duke’s Close, Folley Hill, FARNHAM, Surrey GU9 ODK (Committee 1985-1988) BINDEMAN, Mrs J.; 41 Lovett Road, Byfield, DavENTRY, Northants NN11 6XF BisHop, K. D.; Semioptera, Lot 15, Kerns Road, KINCUMBER, NSW 2250, Australia Bison, P. W.; C Springerstraat 11—II, 1073 LD amsTEerDam, Netherlands Bock, Prof. W. J., Ph.D.; Dept of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, NEW yorK, NY 10027, USA BonFIELpD, C. L.; Yew Tree Cottage, Great Easton, DUNMOow, Essex CM6 2HQ Bonser, R. H. C.; Dept of Zoology, Bristol University, Woodland Road, BRISTOL BS8 1UG Bootu, Major B. D. McDona.p; The Moorland Gallery, 23 Cork St, LONDON W1X 1HB Bore._o, Mrs W. D.; PO Box 603, GABORONE, Botswana Borras Hosta, Antoni; Poeta Mistral 101-3, Manresa, BARCELONA, Spain BoswaLt, J. H. R.; Birdswell, Wraxall, BRIsToL BS19 1JZ (Committee 1973-1976) Boswe Lt, Mrs E. M.; PO Box 23404, DAR Es SALAAM, Tanzania BouGuTon, R. C.; Croftfoot, Ennerdale, CLEATOR, Cumbria CA23 3AZ 1984 Bourne, Dr W. R. P.; 3 Contlaw Place, Milltimber, ABERDEEN AB1 0DS Bow-ey, J. J.; 8 Greenodd Drive, Longford, covENTRY CV6 6LT BrapbLey, Mrs D. M.; 6 Ariel Court, Ashchurch Park Villas, LONDON W129SR (Committee 1968-1972, 1975-1978, Hon. Treasurer 1978-1989) Brapcey, Mrs P. E.; (Turks & Caicos), Foreign & Commonwealth Office, King Charles Street, LONDON SW1A 2AH BrapDsHAw, C. D.; Heather Hill, Stoney Cross, Nr LYNDHURST, Hants SO43 7GP BrapsHaw, C. G.; 112 Lonsdale Drive, Rainham, GILLINGHAM, Kent ME8 9JA Briccs, Dr K. B.; 2 Osborne Road, FARNBOROUGH, Hants GU14 6PT Britton, P. L.; All Souls’ and St Gabriel’s School, PO Box 235, CHARTER TOWERS, Queensland 4820, Australia Broan, D.; 15 Cotsford Avenue, NEW MALDEN, Surrey KT3 SEU Brown, B. J.; 24 Clifton Road, LowesTortT, Suffolk NR33 OHF Brown, J. N. B.; Holly Cottage, Watersplash Lane, Cheapside, ascot, Berks SL5 7QP Brown, S. P.; 7 Bartle Place, Ashton, PRESTON, Lancs PR2 1LS Browng, P. W. P.; 115 Chrichton Street, oTTAwA, Ontario, Canada K1M 1V8 Bryant, Dr D. M.; Dept of Biology, University of Stirling, sTIRLING FK9 4LA BuckneELl, N. J.; 7 Pound Cottages, Wallingford Road, Streatley, READING RG8 9JH Butt, Dr J.; American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St, NEW yorK, NY 10024, USA Vv Butt, P. J.; 35 Melbury Avenue, NORWOOD GREEN, Middlesex UB2 4HS BurTON, J. A.; The Old Mission Hall, Sibton Green, SAxMUNDHAM, Suffolk IP17 2T Y (Committee 1971-1974) Burton, Dr P. J. K.; High Kelton, Doctors Commons Road, BERKHAMSTED, Herts HP4 3DW Bynon, DrJ.; Lippitt’s End, Mott Street, High Beach, LOUGHTON, Essex IG10 4AP Casor, J.; Pabellon del Peru, Avda Maria Luisa S/N, 41013 sEvILve, Spain Carn, A. P. E.; 1 Molesford Road, Parsons Green, LONDON SW6 4BU Caper, D. R.; “Birdwood”, Madeira Road, WEST BYFLEET, Surrey KT146DN (Committee 1967-1969, 1984-1987, Hon. Secretary 1969-1971, Chairman 1980-1983) CamPBELL, Dr N. A.; PO Box 3136, Paulington, MuTaARE, Zimbabwe CANNINGS-BUSHELL, P. C.; c/o 32 Chesterton Park, CIRENCESTER, Glos GL7 1XT CaRPENTER, C. F.; PO Box 1763, ENGLEWoop, CO 80150-1763, USA CARSWELL, Dr M.; 38 Park Avenue, ORPINGTON, Kent Carter, A. G. T.; UNICEF (New Delhi), Palais des Nations, CH 1211 GENEva 10, Switzerland Carter, C.; PO Box 71793, NpoLa, Zambia CartuHy, D. P.; Data Processing Unit, Dept. of Dentistry, University of Hong Kong, 34 Hospital Road, Hong Kong CasEMENT, Cdr M. B., O.B.E., R.N.; Dene Cottage, West Harting, PETERSFIELD, Hants GU31 5PA (Committee 1990-) Catraneo, G.; Via Mussatti 2, 10090 Rivara CAM (ToRINO), Italy CHANCELLOR, R. D.; 15b Bolton Gardens, LONDON SW5 OAL (Committee 1979-1982) CHapMaAN, S. E.; ‘‘Steeplefield’’, Marlpost Road, Southwater, HORSHAM, Sussex RH13 7BZ CuHapMaAN-Korron, Ms A.; Dept of Biology, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN 3186, Brunei Darussalam CuatTFIELD, D. G. P.; Rhiwenfa, Rhiw, PWLLHELI, Gwynedd LL53 8AE Cuaytor, DrR. G.; Triangle, Keenley, ALLENDALE, Northumberland NE47 9NT Cueke, Dr R. A.; N.R.I., Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, CHATHAM, Kent ME4 4TB (Committee 1991-) CuHesHire, N. G.; 4 Willora Road, EDEN HILLS, South Australia 5050, Australia Curistmas, T. J.; 5 Balfour Road, Islington, LONDON N5 2HB Curisty, P.; 1 Rue des Promenades, 79.500 MELLE, France Crancey, P. A., D.Sc.; Fernleigh Gardens, 8 Lambert Road, Morningside, DURBAN 4001, South Africa (Hon. Life Member) CxarinGE, J. C. R.; 17 Moana Road, Plimmerton, via WELLINGTON, New Zealand Criark, K. W. F.; 136 Evans Road, BLOOMFIELD, NY 07003, USA CxiarkeE, Sqn. Ldr. M. C. A., R.A.F.; Officers’ Mess, Royal Air Force, Boulmer, ALNwick, Northumberland NE66 3JF CoLeMan, B.; Little Place, Rogers Lane, sTOKE PpoGEs, Bucks SL2 4LU CoLeMaN, J. R.; Hewelsfield, Snowdenham Links Road, BRAMLEY, Surrey GU5 0OBX 1980 Cotes, S. J. W., M.B.E.; 7 Chipstead Park Close, Chipstead, SEVENOAKS, Kent TN13 2SJ Coxrar, Dr N. J.; 45 de Freville Avenue, CAMBRIDGE CB4 13 HW Cotuins, D. R.; 11 Shelley Road, KETTERING, Northants NN16 9LD Co tins, I. D.; 30 Clonmel Way, BURNHAM, Bucks SL1 7DA Co.tins, R. E. C.; Seatonden, Seaton, Ickham, CANTERBURY, Kent CT3 1SL Coston, P. R.; Sub-Dept. of Ornithology, British Museum (Natural History), TRING, Herts HP23 6AP ConpeR, P. J., O.B.E.; Old Close Orchard, 12 Swaynes Lane, Comberton, CAMBRIDGE CB3 7EF (Committee 1982-1985) ConTENTO, G.; Via Desenibus 8, 34074 MONFALCONE, Italy Cook, Dr Marion; Scheibenbergstrasse 20/5, A 1180, viIENNA, Austria Coomeer, R. F.; Springfield, Bashley Road, NEW MILTON, Hants BH25 5RX CorNwa_tis, Dr L.; Glyme Farm, Charlbury Road, CHIPPING NORTON, Oxon OX7 5XJ Costas, R.; Avda da Florida 95—7B, 36210 vico (Pontevedra), Spain CotTtTre__, G. W., Jnr; PO Box 1487, HILLsBoro, NH 03244, USA Covurt-SmitH, Sq.Ldr D. St J.; 38 Sand Hill, FARNBOROUGH, Hants GU14 8EW Cowan, Dr P. J.; Gleann Cottage, Glenlomond, KINRoss, Tayside KY13 7HF Cow tes, G. S.; Tetherstones, 23 Kirkdale Road, HARPENDEN, Herts ALS 2PT Cox, DrR. A. F.; Linden House, Long Lane, Fowlmere, royston, Herts SG8 7TG Crapbock, B.; 44 Haling Road, Penkridge, starForD ST19 5DA Tue Ear oF CRANBROOK, Ph.D.; Great Glemham House, Great Glemham, SAaXxMUNDHAM, Suffolk [P17 1LP CriLtey, T. L.; 73. Cleveland Road, NORTH SHIELDS, Tyne & Wear NE29 ONW Crocker, N. J.; Arlington, Douro Road, CHELTENHAM, Glos GL50 2PF Crockett, D. E.; 21 McMillan Avenue, Kamo, NORTHLAND, New Zealand Crossy, M. J.; 21 Eastern Street, CAMBRIDGE CB1 3AB Cross, J. K.; 62 Hulbert Road, Bedhampton, Havant, Hants PO9 3TG Croucuer, R. A. N.; Uplands Lodge, Manor Road, sMETHWICK, W. Midlands B67 6SA (Committee 1980-1984) CupwortH, J.; 17a Prospect Road, osseTT, Yorks WF5 8AE CuLL, S. B.; Trevenna Cottage, Harlyn Road, St Merryn, paDstow, Cornwall PL28 8NS CUNNINGHAM VAN SOMMEREN, G. R.; PO Box 24947, Karen, NAIROBI, Kenya Curtis, W. F.; Farm Cottage, Church Lane, Atwick, DRIFFIELD, E. Yorks YO25 8DH Da Fonseca, P. S. M.; R. Benjamin Batista 161 £101, CEP 22.461, R10 DE JANIERO RJ, Brazil Danie, A. R.; 21 Kingsbury Avenue, DUNSTABLE, Beds LUS 4PU DavuLne, J-M.; Rue Laforge 11, 5460 MOoRMONT-EREZEE, Belgium Davipson, I. S.; 49 Benton Park Road, NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE NE7 7LX Davies, J.; 83 Rectory Lane, Leybourne, wesT MALLING, Kent ME19 SHD Davies, Dr M. G.; Summerleas, Crapstone Road, YELVERTON, Devon PL20 6BT Davis, C. J.; 4 Muller Road, Horfield, sristot BS7 0OAA Davison, Dr G. W. H.; WWF (Malaysia), Locked Bag No 911, Jalan Sultan PO, 46990 PETALING Jaya, Malaysia Dean, A. R.; 2 Charingworth Road, soLIHULL, W. Midlands B92 8HT Dean, W. J. R.; Karoo Biome Research, PO Box 47, PRINCE ALBERT 6930, South Africa Demarcut, Dr. P.; Via Grassi 19, 43044 Collecchio, PARMA, Italy Demey, R.; Grote Peperstraat 3, B-9100 sInT-NIKLAAS, Belgium Dennis, M. K.; 173 Collier Row Lane, romrorp, Essex RM5 3ED Denton, M. L.; 77 Hawthorne Terrace, Crosland Moor, HUDDERSFIELD, Yorks HD4 5RP 1970 1978 1984 1974 1965 1952 1957 1986 1956 1962 1986 1986 1967 1985 1977 1963 1973 1989 1985 1986 1986 1986 1988 1979 1986 1988 1981 1979 1978 1976 1986 1943 1991 1991 1984 1985 1989 1978 1979 1965 1991 1991 1985 1981 1959 1976 1988 1991 1974 1966 1986 al Desrayes, M.; Prevan, CH 1920 FuLLy, Switzerland Deviters, Dr P. J.; 11 Avenue de |’Oiseau Bleu, B1150 BrussELs, Belgium Dramonp, Dr A. W.; 1033 University Drive, saSsKATOON, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 0K4 Dick, J. A., F.R.C.S.; 33 St Mary’s Road, LONDON SW19 7BP Dickinson, E. C.; Norman Chapel, Aston Magna, MORETON IN MARSH, Glos. GL56 9QN Dickinson, H. J.; Abinger Cottage, Paston, NORTH WALSHAM, Norfolk NR28 9TB DILLINGHaM, I. H.; The Low House, Lower Longwith, Collingham, WETHERBY, W. Yorks LS22 SBX Dossins,R.; 317 Gladbeck Way, ENFIELD, Middx EN2 7HR Dorst, Prof. J.; 14 Quai d’Orleans, 75004 paris, France Dowsetrt, R. J.; Rue de Bois de Breux 194, B 4500, JUPILLE-LIEGE, Belgium Duckett, J. E.; 94 Lorong Chong Khoon Lin 6, Ukay Heights, 68000 ampanc, Selangor DE, Malaysia Earp, M. J.; 63 Ivinghoe Road, Bushey, waTrorD, Herts WD2 3SW Eppig, W. M. M.,; c/o Pirie, 55 Silverknowles Crescent, EDINBURGH EH4 5JA Eben, R. M. G.; Haliki, Lower Beach Road, West Bexington, DORCHESTER, Dorset DT2 9DG Ecey, J. T.; 5 Morgan Close, Saltford, BRistoL BS18 3LN E.tcoop, J. H.; 26 Walkford Way, HIGHCLIFFE, Dorset BH235LR (Committee 1967-1970, 1986-90, Vice- Chairman 1971-1974, Chairman 1974-1977) Evxins, D. A.; Le Frugier, St Mesmin, 24270 LANOUAILLE, France ELpuick, J. H.; Centre Cottage, Clapham, Nr EXETER, Devon EX2 9UN Etswortny, Dr G. C.; 14 Greenbank Avenue, Maghull, LiverPooLt L31 2JQ Ennis, L. H.; School Cottage, Plaistow, BILLINGSHURST, W. Sussex RH14 0PX Erritzoe, J.; Taps GL Praestegaard, DK 6070 CHRISTIANSFELD, Denmark Evans, G. G.; 1 Coach House Mews, Upper Church Road, WESTON-SUPER-MARE, Avon BS23 2DY FaNsHAWE, J. H.; c/o 1.C.B.P., 32 Cambridge Road, Girton, CAMBRIDGE CB3 OPJ Farmer, R. J.; Bodlondeb, 5 Stryd Hottipass, ABERGWAUN, Dyfed SA65 9LJ FaRNsWorRTH, S. J.; Hammerkop, Frogmill, Hurley, MAIDENHEAD, Berks SL6 5NL (Committee 1989-90, Hon. Treasurer 1990-) Feare, Dr C. J., MAFF, Tangley Place, WoRPLESDON, Surrey GU3 3LQ FERGENBAUER- KIMMEL, Dr A.; Donrather Str. 2, D 5204 LoHMarRL, Germany Fie_p, G. D.; 37 Milton Grove, NEW MILTON, Hants BH25 6HB FisHER, Miss C. T.; Section of Birds and Mammals, Liverpool Museum, William Brown Street, LIVERPOOL L3 8EN FisHer, D. J.; 56 Western Way, SANDY, Beds SG19 1DU FisHpoo_, Dr L. D. C.; 12 Mountain St, Chilham, caNTERBURY, Kent CT4 8DQ Fitter, R. S. R.; Drifts, Chinnor Hill, oxrorp OX9 4BS (Committee 1959-1962, Vice-Chairman 1962-1965, Chairman 1965-1968) Fitzpatrick, Ms. S.; Dept of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster at Jordanstown, NEWTOWN ABBEY, Co Antrim BT37 0QB FLYNN, J. A.; 77 Braxted Park, LONDON SW16 3AU Fow er, Dr J. A.; Hafod Heli, High Street, BoRTH, Dyfed SY24 5JE FraANKE, Ms I.; Museo de Historia Natural, Casilla 140434, Lima 14, Peru FRANKS, J. A.; Flat 6, Lakeland House, Marine Road East, MORECAMBE, Lancs LA4 6AY Fraser, M. W.; Sandbanks, Kenmuir Steps, Hopkirk Way, GLENCAIRN 7995, South Africa FrusHer, D. M.; The Barn House, Greatworth, BANBURY, Oxon OX17 2DT Fry, Prof. C. H., D.Sc.; Biology Dept., College of Science, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box 32486, Al Khoudh, muscaT, Oman FuGGLEs-CoucHMaN, N. R.; Post House, Broughton, STOCKBRIDGE, Hants SO20 8AA FuLrorp, S.; 100 Caesar Avenue, CARNOUSTIE, Angus DD7 6DS Futter, Dr K. R.; Arkells, 29 Hunstanton Road, HEACHAM, Norfolk PE31 7JY Gatey, C. P.; 29 Ainsdale Drive, Werrington, PETERBOROUGH, Cambs PE4 6RL GALLAGHER, Major M. D.; c/o PO Box 668, Muscat, Oman Gatswortny, A. C., CMG; c/o FCO (Hong Kong), King Charles Street, LONDON SW1A 2AH GarpDNER-MeEpDwIn, Dr D.; Flocktous, Station Road, Heddon-on-the-Wall, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE NE15 0EG GauNTLETT, F. M.; 55 Larkfield Avenue, HARROW, Middx HA3 8NQ Gisss, A.; 48 Bolton Road, CHESSINGTON, Surrey KT9 2JB Gipson, Dr J. A.; Foremount House, KILBARCHAN, Renfrewshire PA10 2EZ GIL, D.; Vitoria 27, 09004 BuRGos, Spain 1962-70, 1988 GILLHaM, E. H.; 31 Coast Drive, Lydd on Sea, ROMNEY MARSH, Kent TN29 9NL 1975 1983 1991 Gixston, H.; Chemin des Mouettes 16, CH 1007, LausaNNE, Switzerland GLapwin, The Rev. T. W.; 99 Warren Way, Digswell, wELWyn, Herts AL6 ODL (Committee 1990-) Gtiaves, D. J.; 9 High Street, Kenton, Nr EXETER, Devon 1981-1983, 1986 GocHFELD, Dr M.; 54 Hollywood Avenue, SOMERSET, NJ 08873, USA 1970 1981 1968 1985 1991 1953 1977 1986 1986 1988 1968 1977 1984 1989 1977 1963 1983 Goopatt, A. E.; 46 Adrian Road, Abbots Langley, waTrorD, Herts WD5 0AQ Goopman, S. M.; Dept of Zoology, Field Museum of Natural History, Roosevelt Road at Lakeshore Drive, cHicaco, IL 60605, USA Goopwin, D.; 6 Crest View Drive, PETTS woop, Kent BR5 1BY Gorpbon, J.; 1 Gallowsclough Road, STALYBRIDGE, Cheshire SK15 3QS Gortup, P. D.; 36 Kingfisher Court, Hambridge Road, NEwBuRY, Berks Gorton, E.; 249 Wigan Road, Westhaughton, BOLTON, Lancs BL5 2AT Goster, Dr A. G.; c/o E.G.1., Dept of Zoology, South Park Road, oxForD OX1 3PS Gos Linc, A. P.; 8 The Walk, Fox Lane, Palmers Green, LONDON N13 4AA GOuLDING, R. V. G.; 239a Carr Road, NoRTHOLT, Middx UB45 4RL Goutner, Dr V.; PO Box 50211, Gr 54013, THESSALONIKI, Greece Gray, B.; 6 Totland Court, Victoria Road, MILFORD-ON-SEA, Hants SO41 ONR (Committee 1977-1980. Vice- Chairman 1980-1983, Chairman 1983-1986) GreEN, Prof. J., Ph.D.; School of Biological Sciences, Queen Mary College, Mile End Road, LoNDON E1 4NS GREENLAW, Dr J.S.; Biology Dept, L.I. University, BROOKVILLE, NY 11548, USA GREENSMITH, A.; 14 Woodfield Avenue, CARSHALTON BEECHES, Surrey SM5 3JB GREENWOOD, Dr J. G.; Science Dept, Stranmills College, BELFastT BT9 S5DY GREENWOOD, Dr J. J. D.; B.T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk [P24 2PU Grecory, P. A.; Tabubil International School, PO Box 69, TaBULIL, Western Province, Papua New Guinea vii Grecory, S. M. S.; 35 Monarch Road, Kingsthorpe Hollow, NORTHAMPTON NN2 6EH Gretton, Mr A.; Fregate Island, c/o Box 330, Victoria, MAHE, Seychelles GrirFIN, D.; 51a Palace Road, EAST MOLESEY, Surrey (Committee 1983-1986, Vice-Chairman 1986-1989, Committee 1989-90, Vice-Chairman 1990-) GriIFFITH, E.; Pentrecaeau Uchaf, LLANDEILO GRABAN, Powys LD2 3YX Grimes, Dr L. G.; 3 St Nicholas Court, St Nicholas Church St, wARWICK CV34 4JD GrossMANNn, Dr H.; Wietreie 78, D 2000 HAMBURG 67, Germany Gutuick, T. M.; c/o Mrs M. Parker, 5 Tile Barn Close, FARNBOROUGH, Hants GU14 8LS Hack1no, Dr C. N.; Moorlish, Woodgreen, FORDINGBRIDGE, Hants SP6 2AU Harrer, Dr J.; Tommesweg 60, D-4300 EssEN 1, Germany Hate, Prof. W. G., Ph.D.; 5 Ryder Close, Aughton, ORMSKIRK, Lancs L39 5HJ Hatt, Mrs B. P.; Woodside Cottage, Woodgreen, FORDINGBIRDGE, Hants SP6 2QU (Committee 1955-1959, 1962-1965, Vice-Chairman 1959-1962) Hatt, Prof. G. A., Ph.D.; Dept of Chemistry, PO Box 6045, West Virginia University, MORGANTOWN, WV 26506-6045, USA Hancock, J. A., O.B-E.; Jollers, Woodman Lane, Sparsholt, WINCHESTER, Hants SO21 2NS Hanmer, Mrs D. B.; PO Box 3076, Paulington, MuTARE, Zimbabwe HansEN, B. G.; Slettebakken 2, Lille Sverige, DK 3400 HILLEROD, Denmark Hartey, B. H.; Martins, Great Horkesley, COLCHESTER, Essex CO6 4AH Hartey, Miss V. S., M.Sc.; 30 Margett Street, COoTTENHAM, Cambs CB4 4QY Harman, A. J. E.; 20 Chestnut Close, HOCKLEY, Essex SS5 5EJ Harper, W. G.; 8 Winton Grove, EDINBURGH EH107AS Harpum, Dr J.; 58 Shindington Road, CHELTENHAM, Glos GL53 OJE Harrap, S.; El Coqni, 3 Beresford Road, HOLT, Norfolk NR25 6EW Harrison, C. J. O., Ph.D.; 48 Earls’ Crescent, HARROW, Middx HA1 1XN (Committee 1963-1964, 1965-1968, 1974-1977, Hon. Secretary 1964-1965) Harrison, I. D.; Llyswen, Lon y felin, ABERAERON, Dyfed SA46 OED Harrison, Dr PaMELa, F.R.P.S.; Merriewood, St Botolph’s Road, SEVENOAKS, Kent TN13 3AQ Harvey, W. G.; Willowfield, 46 Primrose Lane, GLossop, Derbyshire SK13 9LW Harwin, DrR. M.; 2 Norman Close, PO Chisipite, HARARE, Zimbabwe Hasecawa, H.; Dept of Biology, Faculty of Science, Toho University, Miyama-cho, FUNABASHI, Chiba 274, Japan Hausitz, Dr B.; Steimbker Hof 11, D 3000 HANOVER 61, Germany Hazevoet, C. J.; H Coenradistr 27-2, 1063XP AMSTERDAM, Netherlands Hearp, G. E.; 4 Lambley Lane, GEDLING, Notts NG44PA Hem, C.; The Banks, Mountfield, ROBERTSBRIDGE, East Sussex TN32 5JY HENDERSON, A. C. B.; 28 St Stephen’s Court, CANTERBURY, Kent CT2 7JP HENDERSON, D.; PO Box 29, LEGANA, Tasmania 7277, Australia HENSHALL, K. W.; Crofthead, Penmark, Barry, S. Glamorgan CF6 9BP Heron, Cp! K.; COMMCEN, 33 SU R.A.F. ayios NIcoLaos, BFPO 58 HERREMANS, M. L. J.; Prinses Lydialaan 65, B 3030 HEVERLEE, Belgium HEskETH, W.; 2 Grasmere Close, Walton-le-Dale, PRESTON, Lancs PRS 4RR Hewitson, D.R.; 1 Langley Road, Highcliffe, cHrIsTCHURCH, Dorset BH23 4RN Hicorns, M. C.; 1 Acorn Close, BRIDLINGTON, N. Humberside YO16 5YX Hit, A.; Albrecht Haushofer Str 10, 3200 HILDESHEIM, Germany Hitt, Brig. S.J. L., D.S.O., M.C.; Bristol Court Cottage, Seymour Street, BRIGHTON BN2 1DP Hiravpo, Dr F.; Estacion Biologica de Donana, Pabellon del Peru, Avda. Maria Luisa s/n, 41013 sevILLe, Spain HIRSCHFELD, E.; c/o IAL, PO Box 144, MANAMa, Bahrain Hockey, Dr P. A. R.; P.F.I.A.O., University of Cape Town, RONDESBOSCH 7700, South Africa Hopcson, M. C.; 61 Palewell Park, East Sheen, LONDON, SW14 8JQ HOFFMANN, T. W.; Haus Sonneberg, CH 8914 ageucst, Switzerland Hoag, P.; 33 Vine Court Road, sEVENOAKS, Kent TN13 3UY (Committee 1962-1966, 1972-1974, Vice-Chairman 1974-1977, Chairman 1977-1980) Hotiom, P. A. D.; Inwood Cottage, Hydestile, GoDALMING, Surrey GU84AY (Committee 1938-1941, 1947-1949, 1959-1963) (Hon. Life Member) Hotioway, L. G.; 30 Fernhurst Gardens, Aldwick, BOGNOR REGIS, Sussex PO21 4AZ Homes, D. A.; 31 South View, UPPINGHAM, Leics LE15 9TU Hotyoak, D. T.; Lynwood, Manor Road, Cossington, BRIDGEWATER, TA7 8JX Hompercer, Dr Dominique G.; Dept. of Zoology & Physiology, Louisiana State University, BATON ROUGE, LA 70803-1725, USA HooGeNboorn, W.; Notengaard 32, 3941 LW poorn, Netherlands Horne, Ms J. F. M.; American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St, NEW york, NY 10024- 5192, USA Horwoop, M. T.; 2 Church Close, Benson, oxForD, Oxon Hounsome, Dr M. V.; Manchester University Museum, Oxford Road, MANCHESTER M13 9PL Houston, Dr D. C.; Dept of Zoology, University of Glasgow, GLascow G12 8QQ Hove , Ing. H. G.; 55 Einstein Str., 34602 naira, Israel Howarp, R. P.; Hogg House, Lower Basildon, READING, Berks RG8 9NH Howe, S.; Alma House, 12 William Street, TORPHINS, Grampian AB3 4JR Hucues, R. A.; Casilla 62, MOLLENDO, Peru Huypers, H. J. E. G.; General van Teynst 10, 5623 HN EINDHOVEN, Netherlands Hunter, A.; 16 Bollin Walk, Reddish Road, South Reddish, srocKkport SK5 7JW InceLs, Dr J.T. T., D.Sc.; Galgenberglaan 9, B 9120 DesTELBERGEN, Belgium Inskipp, T.; c/o World Conservation Monitoring Centre, 219c Huntingdon Road, CAMBRIDGE CB3 ODL Irons, Dr J. K.; 9 Babylon Way, Ratton, EASTBOURNE, E. Sussex BN20 9DL James, S. L.; 97a Cliff Road, HoRNsSEA, North Humberside HU18 1JB James, T. J.; 56 Back Street, Ashwell, BALDock, Herts SG7 5PE Jamnicky, E. S.; PO Box 358, BLAIRSVILLE, Georgia 30512-0358, USA Jennincs, M. C.; 1 Warners Farm, Warners Drove, sSomERSHAM, Cambs PE17 3HW Jennincs, P. P.; Garnfawr Bungalow, Bettws, Hundred House, LLANDRINDOD WELLS, Powys LD1 5RP JENSEN, H.; Tolstoje Alle 26, DK 2860 sozsorc, Denmark 1983 1973 1970 1986 1951 1989 1990 1985 1989 1974 1982 1991 1980 1985 1965 1988 1986 1983 1986 1989 1960 1990 1982 1990 1981 1988 1982 1991 1984 1973 1989 1979 1987 1989 1986 1985 1982 1988 1989 1988 1974 1959-74, 1975 1985 1975 1985 1988 1989 1991 1968-71, 1985 1982 1951-55, 1979 1986 1987 1985 1981 1973 1991 1991 1944 1991 1988 1978 1981 1974 1981 1977 1986 1989 1970 1988 vill Jepson, P. R.; ICBP Indonesia Programme, PO Box 212/800, JL Cilosari Block B XII No. 1, BoGor BARU, Bogor 16001, Indonesia JoBLinG, J. A.; 14 The Valley Green, WELWYN GARDEN CiTy, Herts AL8 7DQ Jounson, E. D. H.; Crabiere Cottage, Grande Route des Mielles, st OUEN, Jersey JE3 2FN, Channel Islands JoHNSON, Major F.; 6 Norrington Mead, Broadmead Village, FOLKESTONE, Kent CT19 5TF Jounson, H. P. H.; 17 Via Bontempi, PERUGIA, Italy JOHNSON, W. C. P.; 34 Pembroke Road, The Heath, saLisBury, Wilts SP2 9DG Jounston, A.; 7 Rickhill Crescent, Knock, BELFAsT BT'S 6HF Jounston, D.; 4 Burn Street, Longtown, CARLISLE, Cumbria CA6 5X W JOHNSTON, J. P.; 4 Lawhead Road West, st ANDREWS, Fife KY16 9NE Jones, Dr A. M.; Gowanlea, NETHYBRIDGE, Inverness-shire PH25 3DR Jones, Mr C. G.; c/o Forestry Quarters, BLACK RIVER, Mauritius, Indian Ocean Jones, Ms. R. M.; Garden Flat, 29 Stonor Road, LONDON W14 8RC JONGELING, T. B.; 3ae Oosterparkstraat 46-1, 1091 JZ amsTERDAM, Netherlands Kasoma, P. M. B.; Dept of Zoology, Makerere University, PO Box 7062, KAMPALA, Uganda KeitH, G. S.; Dept of Ornithology, American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St, NEW YORK, NY 10024, USA Ke_ty, P. R. A.; Malmsy House, Church Road, Leigh Woods, BRISTOL BS8 3PG Kecsey, Dr F. D.; White Cottage, Church Lane, Cley-next-the-Sea, HOLT, Norfolk NR25 7UD Kesey, Dr M. G.; ICBP, 32 Cambridge Road, Girton, CAMBRIDGE CB3 OPJ Kencu, A. J.; 141 Cozens Road, ware, Herts SG12 7JB KENNEDY, Dr R. S.; Cincinnatti Museum of Natural History, 1720 Gilbert Avenue, CINCINNATTI, OH 45202, USA Kent, J. de R.; Mews Cottage, Church Hill, MipHurstT, Sussex GU29 9NX Kerr-SMILeyY, Lt-Col. P. S.: Towranna Farm, Huntingfield, HALESWORTH, Suffolk [P19 0OQP Kerr ce, R. H.; 75 Dupont Road, LONDON SW20 8EH (Committee 1988-1991) Kuan, Dr Md ALI Reza; In Charge, Dubai Zoo, PO Box 67, puBa1, United Arab Emirates KING, J.; 96 Forbes Avenue, POTTERS BAR, Herts EN6 5NQ Kina, J. R.; Dept of Zoology, Edward Grey Institute, South Parks Road, oxFoRD OX1 3PS KLonowskI1, T. J.; 6356 Meadville Road, MIDDLEPORT, NY 14105, USA KostTensE, C.; Lange Betteweg 8, 4521 PK Brerviiet, Netherlands KNIGHT, J. E.; 33 North Road, Stokesley, MIDDLESBROUGH, Cleveland TS9 5DZ Knox, Dr A. G.; The Bothy, Mentmore, LEIGHTON BUZZARD, Bucks LU7 0QG KoGa, Kimiya; 332-12-12-2 Terukini, Chuo-Ku, Fukuoka 810, Japan KOIKE, SHIGETO; 1523, Honjo, Niigata-shi, NIIGATA PREFECTURE 950, Japan Kramer, D.; 7 Little Headlands, Putnoe, BEDFORD MK 41 8JT Lack, Dr P. C.; B.T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk IP24 2PU Lainc, R. M.; 87 Johnston Gardens East, Peterculter, ABERDEEN AB1 OLA LAMBERT, F. R.; c/o 15 Bramble Rise, Westdene, BRIGHTON, Sussex BN1 5GE LamortHeE, Ms L.; 7 Payton Street, CANLEY VALE, NSW 2166, Australia LarRDELLI, R.; Via Roccolo, CH 6877 COLDRERIO, Switzerland LAURENCE OF Mar, Lt.-Cdr.; 8 The Square, DYRMS, pover, Kent CT15 5DR Lawson, I. B.; 20 Glen Walk, 12 Sugar Farm Trail, Sunningdale, DURBAN 4051, South Africa Layton, A. W.; 95 Manning Road, WooLLaHRA, NSW 2025, Australia 1986 Lees-SmiTH, D. T.; 134 The Avenue, Starbeck, HARROGATE, N. Yorks HG1 4QF LEIGHTON, Sir MICHAEL, Bt.; Loton Park, ALDERBURY, Salop. LEMAUVIEL, Y.; 11 Rue de Medicis, 75006 paris, France LEvEQUE, R.; Station Ornithologique, CH 6204, sEmpacu, Switzerland Lewis, I. T.; South Cottage, Fordcome, Nr TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Kent TN3 ORY Lim, K.; 177 Jalan Loyang Besar, Singapore 1750 Linp, C. R.; Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Les Augres Manor, TRINITY, Jersey JE3 5BF, Channel Islands LINpDBLAaD, O.; Skaldevagen 58, S-35239 vaxjo, Sweden 1989 Linpsay, J. D.; 17c Walbrook Avenue, Springfield, MILTON KEYNES, Bucks MK6 3JB Lister, S. M.; 31 Lisle Street, LOUGHBOROUGH, Leics LE11 0OAY LitTLemore, F. P.; Plemstall, 264 Dunchurch Road, ruGBy, Warwicks CV22 6HX 1977 LiversiDGE, R., Ph.D.; McGregor Museum, PO Box 316, KIMBERLEY, Cape Province 8300, South Africa Lioyp, Capt. G. C., C.B.E., R.N.; Lanterns, Buckmore Avenue, PETERSFIELD, Hants GU32 2EF Lioyp, J. V.; Cynghordy, LLANDOvERY, Dyfed SA20 OLN LoskeE, K-H.; In den Kuhlen 44, D 4787 GeseKE 3, Germany Lossy, G.; Turnersstraat 42, 2020 anTwerpP, Belgium Lovejoy, Dr T. E.; Asst Secretary for External Affairs, Smithsonian Institution, SI-317, 1000 Jefferson Drive SW, wasHINGTON DC 20560, USA McAnprew, R. T.; 5 Thornhill Gardens, HARTLEPOOL, Cleveland TS26 OHY McCancu, N. V.; Calf of Man Bird Observatory, c/o J Clague, Kionslieau, Plantation Road, PORT ST MARY, Isle of Man McCarthy, J. E.; 10 Beech Grove, CHEPSTOW, Gwent NP6 5BD McCuttocu, The Rev G. K., O.B.E.; 5 Roy Road, NorTHWoop, Middx HA6 1EQ (Committee 1981-1983, Vice-Chairman 1983-1986, Chairman 1986-1989) McGowan, Dr. K. J.; Ecology and Systematics, Corson Hall, Cornell University, 1rHaca, NY 14853, USA McGowan, P.; Biology Dept, The Open University, Walton Hall, MILTON KEYNES, MK7 6AA McKean, J. L.; 1055 East Evelyn Avenue, Building A Apt 1, SUNNYVALE, CA 94086, USA McLauGutin, T. J.; Lisnacarrig, Brighton Road, roxrock, Co. Dublin, Eire MeNEIL, Dr D. A. C.; 175 Byron Road, LouGHBOROUGH, Leics LE11 0JN Mange, S. C.; 2 Church Row, Sheviock, TORPOINT, Cornwall PL11 3EH MacGnusson, A. H.; Riihitie 10 A3, SF 00330 HELSINKI, Finland Main, J. S.; 67 Farm Fields, SANDERSTEAD, Surrey CR2 OHR Matcoim, N.S.; FAO FODX, Via Delle Terme di Caracalla, 00100 RoE, Italy Mann, Dr C. F.; 35 Dorking Crescent, Cann Hall Estate, CLACTON ON sEA, Essex CO16 8FQ (Committee 1977-1981) MansFIELD, R. C.; ‘‘Birdwood’’, 15c Lyles Road, Cottenham, CAMBRIDGE CB4 4QR 1991 1957 1985 1985 1983 1982 1987 1988 1986 1989 1964 1975 1989 1987 1982 1979 1981 1990 1980 1980 1986 1981 1991 1991 1986 1986 1980 1988 1946 1988 1978 1985 1989 1990 1972 1986 1989 1989 1951 1983 1986 1990 1989 1974 1986 1987 1986 1986 1974 1975 1983 1979 1979 1986 1989 1973 1974 1970 1989 1982 1984 1987 1977 1986 1988 1977 1971 1936 1966 1957 1991 1963 1989 1979 1X Marcet, E.; Van Dijckstraat 117, 2640 MorTsEL, Belgium MarcHant, S.; Box 123, Moruya, NSW 2537, Australia MartTIN, J. W. P.; 54 Wolsey Road, EAST MOLESEY, Surrey KT8 9EW Martin, Dr M. R.; 35 Auburn Road, Hawthorne, MELBOURNE, Victoria 3122, Australia Martins, R. P.; 6 Connaught Road, Norwicu, Norfolk NR2 3BP Mason, I. J.; CSIRO Div. of Wildlife Research, PO Box 84, LYNEHAM, ACT 2602, Australia Mason, V.; Interhash 88, PO Box 400, DENPASAR 80001, BALI, Indonesia Massa, B.; Via Archirafi 18, Instituto di Zoologia, 90123 PALERMO, Italy Massey, K. G.; 4 Hall Terrace, Great Sankey, WARRINGTON, Cheshire WAS 3EZ Massie, D. B.; 43 Hazel Road, Purley Beeches, READING, Berks RG8 8HR Meap, C. J.; c/o B.T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk IP24 2PU (Committee 1971-1975) Meap, Mrs U. V.; 4 Beaconsfield Road, TRING, Herts MP23 4DP Meapows, B. S.; c/o Royal Commission for Yanbu, PO Box 30031, YANBU AL-SINAIYAH, Saudi Arabia MEDLAND, R. D.; PO Box 30370, LILONGE 3, Malawi Mepway, D. G.; PO Box 476, NEw PLYMouTH, New Zealand Meek, E. R.; Smyril, Stenness, STROMNESS, Orkney Meetu, P.; Bramenlaan 5, 2116 TR BENTVELD, Netherlands MEININGER, P. L.; Belfort 7, 4336 JK MIDDELBURG, Netherlands Metprum, Dr J. A. K.; Heath House, 1 Millgate, Lisvane, carDIFF CF4 5TY Me Lvitte, D. S.; c/o WWF (Hong Kong), GPO Box 12721, Hong Kong MeEREDITH-MIDDLETON, Miss J., Anatomy Dept, University College of London, Gower St, LONDON WCIE 6BT Metcatre, J. W. W.; 17 Culme Close, Oundle, PETERBOROUGH, Northants PE8 4QQ Meysurc, Dr B. U.; Herbertstrasse 14, D1000 BERLIN 33, Germany Mieatt, Dr. G.; Via Savona 71, I-20144 miLaNn MI, Italy Mites, D. T.; ‘‘Clareville’’, 24 Belmont Road, WEsSTGATE-ON-SEA, Kent CT8 8AX Mitts, T. R.; 36 Chartfield Avenue, Putney, LONDON SW15 6HG MISsKELL, J.; CARE-Uganda, PO Box 7280, KAMPALA, Uganda Moet er, E.; Parkstr. 13, 4900 HERFORD, Germany Monk, Dr J. F., D.M.; The Glebe Cottage, Goring, READING, Berks RG8 9AP (Vice-Chairman 1965-1968, Chairman 1968-1971, Editor 1976-1991, Committee 1991-) MOontTeMacaiorI1, A.; Via Emilio de Cavalieri 12, 00198 roma, Italy Moore, A. G.; 34 Clarendon Gardens, LONDON W9 1AZ Moore, Mrs A. M.; 1 Uppingham Road, oaKHaM, Rutland LE15 6JB (Committee 1987-1989, Hon. Secretary 1989-) Moret, Dr G.; Route de Sallenelles, Bréville-les-Monts, F 14860 RANVILLE, France Moret, Dr Marie- YVONNE; Route de Sallenelles, Bréville-les-Monts, F 14860 RANVILLE, France Morean, P. J.; Zoology Dept, National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, caRDIFF CF1 3NP Morcan, R. G.; 13 Cloncurry St, LONDON SW6 6DR Morrow, R.; 2 Wentworth Street, RANDWICK, NSW 2031, Australia Morris, W.; 25 Brithwennydd Road, Tredlaw, RHONDDA, Mid Glamorgan CF40 2UB Mountrort, G. R., O.B.E.; 8 Park Manor, St Aldhelms Road, POOLE, Dorset BH13 6BS Moyer, D. C.; Research Div., Museum of Zoology, Louisiana State University, BATON ROUGE, LA 70803-3216, USA Mutter, Mrs M. N.; Lovedays Mill, painswick, Glos GL6 6SH Mio ter, H. H.; Breitenfelder Str 46, D-2000 HAMBURG 20, Germany Muscrove, N. J.; 41 Emery Close, WALSALL, West Midlands WS1 3AC NakaTA YUKIO; 17-11, 3 chome, Kuwazu, Higasisumiyosi-ku, Osaka 546, Japan Nasu, J. W.; 13 Farm Hill, BRIGHTON, Sussex BN2 6BG Nattress, B.; 25 West Lea Drive, West Ardsley, WAKEFIELD, W. Yorks WF3 1DH NEWLAND, R. A.; 93 Arne Avenue, Parkstone, POOLE, Dorset BH12 4DP NicHots, Dr T. D.; University Medical Center, 5620 Greenbriar Suite 103, HousToN, TX 77005, USA NicHotson, M. P.; The Christopher Hotel, High Street, BATH, Avon BA1 5AQ NIELSEN, B. P.; Skippervaenget 6 B, DK 2791 pracor, Denmark Niko.aus, G.; Bosenbuettel 4, 2859 spreka, Germany Nos.e-ROLLIN, C.; Greystones, Glanton, ALNWiIcK, Northumberland NE66 4AH Opa, Dr T.; Nat. Hist. Mus. & Inst., 955-2 Aoba-Cho, CHIBA 280, Japan Ovp, A. B.; ‘‘Kalinka’’, Flimby Brow, Flimby, Maryport, Cumbria CA15 8TD Ottoso, G.; Le Grand Faubourg, F 26230, GRIGNAN, France Ouiver, P. J.; The Briar Patch, Trevereux Hill, Limpsfield Chart, oxTED, Surrey RH80TL (Committee 1978-1979) Oxney, P. J. S., F.1.Biol.; Zoological Society of London, Regent’s Park, LONDON NW1 4RY Otson, DrS. L.; NHB Stop 116, Smithsonian Institution, WASHINGTON DC 20560, USA OnrvuBiA-BatTicon, A.; C/Francisco Suarez 2-C 2°D, 47006, vALLADOLID, Spain Oren, Dr D. C.; Dept Zoologica, Museu Goeldi, Caixa Postal 399,. Belem, para, CEP 66040, Brazil OrMEROD, Dr S. J.; Catchment Research Group, National Rivers Authority, Penyfai House, Furnace, LLANELLI, Dyfed SA15 4EL O’ Rourke, R. M.; 1/54 Hunter Street, HORNSBY, NSW 2077, Australia Pain, H. M.; 57 Lings Coppice, Dulwich, LONDON SE21 8SX PAtsson, P.; Carlandersplatsen 4, S 41255, GOTHENBURG, Sweden Parisu, D.; Asian Wetland Bureau of IPT, Universitii Malaya, 59100 kuaLa LuMPuR, Malaysia Parker, J. G.; Clavering House, Foulden Road, Oxborough, KINGS LYNN, Norfolk PE33 9BL (Committee 1979-1983) Parkes, Dr K. C.; Carnegie Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, PITTSBURGH, PA 15213, USA Payne, D.; Grovesbrook, Gough Road, FLEET, Hants GU13 8LJ Payne, Dr R. B.; Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, ANN ARBOR, MI 48109, USA Paynter, Dr R. A., Jnr; Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02138, USA PeakaLL, Dr D. B.; 17 St Mary’s Road, Wimbledon, LONDON SW19 7BZ Pea, R.E. F.; 2 Chestnut Lane, seEveNoaks, Kent TN13 3AR (Committee 1969-1971, Hon. Secretary 1971-1989, Chairman 1989-) Peart, D. E. M.; 35 Shaftesbury Road, Wilton, saLisBury, Wilts SP2 ODT Peckover, W.S., O.B.E.; 14 Balanda Street, JINDALEE, Queensland 4074, Australia 1988 1989 1989 1982 1978 1957 1982 1948 1989 1986 1968 1981 1978 1989 1979 1981 1982 1991 1988 1982 1987 1986 1989 1981 1977 1981 1978 1976 1987 1987 1982 1989 1991 1991 1982 1989 1989 1983 1986 1991 1962 1986 1978 1984 1986 1986 1987 1972 1982 1981 1989 1954 1986 1987 1987 1986 1974 1986 1984 1989 1984 1961 1980 1986 1968 1979 1979 1945 1985 1989 1979 1991 1985 1987 1984 xX Penry, Dr E. H.; PO Box 138, oRKNEY, Transvaal 2620, South Africa Perera, Dr A. J. R.; 7 Brandon Close, Bury, Lancs BL8 1XL Perron, R.; 114 Park Lane East, REIGATE, Surrey RH2 8LW Peterseo, A.; Natturufraedistofnun Islands, PO Box 5320, REYKJAVIK 125, Iceland Petter, Prof. A., Ph.D.; Uplands, The Avenue, Kingsdown, DEAL, Kent CT148DU Puivvips, Dr A. R.; Reforma 825 A, Calle Chapultepac, San Nicolas de los Garza, NEUVO LEON, Mexico PICKERING, R. H.; c/o Mr G. H. Pickering, 8 Ashfield Road, MARKET HARBOROUGH, Leics LE16 7LX Pickrorp, K. D.; Longridge Corrie, stroup, Glos GL6 7HU Piper, S. E.; 2 Canal Drive, WESTVILLE, 3630 Natal, South Africa Pitman, R. A.; Straiddorn House, Ringneill Road, comBER, Co. Down BT 23 6EF PLENGE, M. A.; c/o A. Elinson, 20 Bosko Drive, EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ 08816, USA Pomeroy, Dr D. E.; Resource Centre, Muienr, PO Box 10066, KAMPALA, Uganda Poyser, T.; Town Head House, Calton, WATERHOUSES, Staffs ST10 3JQ Prats Trnipap, P.; Cami de Rafalet 59, Casats de Trebaluger, MENORCA, Spain Price, R. C.; 3 Ashchurch Park Villas, LONDON W12 9SP PRINCE, P. A.; c/o British Antarctic Survey, Madingley Road, CAMBRIDGE CB3 0ET PRITCHETT, R. S.; 12 Church Terrace, wINpsor, Berks SL4 4JG Procter, S.; 87 Stopes Road, Little Lever, BOLTON, Lancs BL3 1NW Purroy, F. J.; Departamento de Biologia Animal, Facultad de Biologia, 24071 LEON, Spain Quay, Dr W. B.; BioResearch Laboratory, Rt1 Box 327, NEW BLOOMFIELD, MO 65063-9719, USA Rag, M. C.; Roydon Hall, Roydon, KINGS LYNN, Norfolk PE32 1AR Rajkowsk1, Dr K. M.; 14 rue des Poissons, F 93600, AULNAY-soUS-BOIS, France RANDALL, A.; 6 Wilmar Close, UXBRIDGE, Middlesex UB8 1AS Rasmussen, S. H.; Bakkehaven 18, DK 4180 sors, Denmark Raynor, E. M.; Priorsmead, 15 Nash Meadow, soUTH WARNBOROUGH, Hants RG25 1RJ REDFERN, C. P. F., Ph.D.; Dept of Dermatology, University of Newcaste upon Tyne, RVI, NEWCASTLE-UPON- TYNE NE1 4CP ReEpMAN, N. J.; 11 Nursery Avenue, Hale, ALTRINCHAM, Cheshire WA15 OJP ReEpDMaAN, P. S.; 20 rue Douphine, F 75006 parts, France Reep, J. M.; 21 Hardings, Panshanger, WELWYN GARDEN CITY, Herts AL7 2EQ Reep, R. W.; 48 Alister Street, SHORTLAND, NSW 2307, Australia Rep, Dr J. B.; 8 Temple Crescent, craIL, Fife KY10 3RS RICHARDSON, J. E.; Hazelbrow, Rad Lane, Peaslake, GUILDFORD, Surrey GU5 9PB Rippett, P. B.; 23 Bond Close, Knockholt, SEVENOAKS, Kent TN14 7NB Ritcuig, Dr. D.; Seaton House, Kings Ripton, HUNTINGDON, Cambs PE17 2NJ Roserts, T. J.; Cae Gors, Rhoscefnhir, PENTRAETH, Anglesey LL75 8YU ROBERTSON, I. S.; 1 Central Avenue, CLITHEROE, Lancs BB7 2PZ RosertTson, K. W.; 535 North Road, DARLINGTON DL1 3AB Rosinson, Mrs J. W.; PO Box 1950, ALEXANDRIA, VA 22313-1950, USA Rosinson, P. J.; Riviera House Parade, St Mary’s, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall TR21 0LP Ronr, W. F.; Silcherweg 13, D(W)-6500 Mainz 31, Germany Romer, M. L. R.; Gillingshill, Arksden Road, Clavering, SAFFRON WALDEN, Essex CB114DU (Committee 1964-1968) RoskraFt, Dr E.; Kangshaugvegen 12, N 7560 vikHAMAR, Norway Ross, N.; 71 Buckingham Road, WILMSLow, Cheshire SK9 5LA Rounp, P. D.; Centre for Conservation, Mahidol University (Dept of Biology), Rama VI Road, BANGKOK 10400, Thailand Rowesury, T. J.; 25 Priestley Drive, Larkfield, MAIDSTONE, Kent ME20 6TX Rowe, G. Z.; 51 Grange Avenue, Leagrove, LUTON, Beds LU4 9AS Row ey, I. C. R.; CSIRO Locked Bag 4, PO MIDLAND, Western Australia 6056, Australia RupcE, P.; National Hospital for Nervous Diseases, Queen Square, LONDON WC1N 3RG Rumsey, S.J. R.; c/o Barclays de Zoete Wedd, Ebbsgate House, 2 Swan Lane, LONDON EC4R 3TS Saari, Dr C. L. V.; Aasla, SF 21150 roora, Finland SAETHER, S. A.; Dept of Zoology, University of Trondheim, N-7055 DRAGVOLL, Norway SacE, B. L.; Waveney House, 41 Waveney Close, WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA, Norfolk NR23 1HU Sat, D.; 32 Cromwell Tower, The Barbican, LONDON EC2Y 8DD Samwa Lb, O., Muhlbreitenstrasse 61, A 8280 FURSTENFELD, Austria Sassoon, Miss S.; Flat 1, 21 Upper Phillimore Gardens, LONDON W8 7HF Saw _e, V. J.; Rose Cottage, Home Farm, Rusthall, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Kent TN4 8TN Sayers, B. C.; 164 Chelmer Road, CHELMSFORD, Essex CM2 6AB SCHARFENBERG, C. D.; Rebaek Soepark 3, 1505, DK 2650 Hvipovre, Denmark ScHUCHMANN, Dr K-L.; Zoologisches Forschungsinstitut u Museum Alexander Koenig, Adenauerallee 150-164, 5300 BoNN 1, Germany Scuuze-Hacen, K.; Bergerstr. 163, D 4050 MUNCHENGLADBACH 1, Germany ScutTT, R.; Roseggerstr. 35, D 1000 BERLIN 44, Germany Scott, R. E.; 8 Woodlands, Priory Hill, st NEots, Huntingdon, Cambs PE19 1UE Scott, Dr W. C.; Muston Manor, Winterbourne Muston, BLANDFORD, Dorset DT11 9BU SELF, Dr R.; 21 Firs Avenue, LONDON N10 3LY SELL, P. D.; Botany School, Downing Street, CAMBRIDGE CB2 3EA SELLAR, P. J.; 89 Riddlesdown Road, PURLEY, Surrey CR8 1DH SeLLar, T. J., Ph.D.; Zoology & Applied Entomology Dept., Imperial College, LONDON SW7 2AZ SERLE, The Rev. Dr W., O.B.E.; 9 Hallcroft Gardens, Ratho, NEWBRIDGE, Midlothian EN28 8SG SHARLAND, R. E.; 1 Fisher’s Heron, East Mills, FORDINGBRIDGE, Hants SP6 2JR SHarp, B. J.; 1 Meadow Close, Marshalswick, st ALBANS, Herts AL4 9TG SHarROCK, Dr J. T. R.; Fountains, Park Lane, Blunham, BEpDFoRD MK 44 3NJ Suaw, M.B.; 6 The Spinney, Killingworth Village, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, NE12 0BG SHELDON, F. H.; Dept of Ornithology, Academy of Natural Science, 19th & Parkway, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103, USA Suiceta, Y.; Bird Migration Research Center, Yamashina Institute for Ornithology, Konoyama, Abiko, CHIBA 270-11, Japan SHIRIHAI, H.; PO Box 4168, EILaT 8102, Israel 1988 1970 1988 1989 1991 1973 1981 1980 1977 1981 1981 1980 1985 1980 1957 1988 1979 1991 1990 1981 1989 1971 1983 1989 1988 1991 1987 1977 1986 1991 1988 1990 1961 1985 1956 1985 1975 1976 1982 1979 1982 1979 1988 1981 1984 1985 1989 1988 1991 1959 1977 1985 1985 1989 1986 1970 1991 1986 1985 1974 1975 1982 X1 Suort, D.; 35 Earls Mill Road, Plympton, pLyMouTtH, Devon PL7 3BX SKINNER, Prof. N. J., Ph.D.; 60 Gunton Drive, LowEsToFT, Suffolk NR32 4QB Sack, E.; Norwood, 30 Reid Park Road, Jesmond, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE NE2 2ES Situ, A. W.; 7 St Brelades Road, Bradfield, CRAWLEY, W. Sussex RH11 9RQ Situ, D. T.; 18 Edinburgh Place, Earls Avenue, FOLKESTONE, Kent CT20 2HP Smit, G. A.; 158 Broadway, PETERBOROUGH PE1 4DG Situ, Dr N. G.; Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, APO miami 34002-0011, USA SNELL, R. R.; National Museum of Natural Sciences, PO Box 3443, Station D, orrowa, Ontario, Canada K1P 6T4 Snow, Dr D. W.; The Old Forge, Wingrave, AYLESBURY, Bucks HP22 4PD (Editor 1991-) SomapikortTa, Dr S.; Jalan Salak 12, BoGor 16151, Indonesia Spaans, DrA. L.; c/o Research Institute for Nature Management, PO Box 9201, 6800HB arRNHEM, Netherlands Sparks, Mrs G. M. B.; The Old Vicarage, Compton Abdale, CHELTENHAM, Glos GL54 4DS Spitzer, Dr G.; Inst. f. Zoologie D, Univ. Wien, Abt F Terr Okologie, Althanstr. 14, A 1000 wikn, Postfach 282, Austria Stack, Dr C. G.; 7 Alderbrook Road, soLIHULL, W. Midlands B91 1NH STAFFORD, J.; Westering, Moor Lane, BRIGHSTONE, Isle of Wight PO30 4DL STANFIELD, Dr J. P.; 25 Brandling Place South, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, NE24 RU StTaTHaAM, S. A. H.; Woodcock Hill, Durrants Lane, BERKHAMSTED, Herts HP4 3TR (Committee 1983-1986) STENWIG, J. T.; Dept of Pathology, Akershus Central Hospital PB33, N-1474 NoRDBYHAGEN, Norway STEPHEN, J. A.; 27 New Street, WELLS, Somerset BAS 2LE STEVENS, J. P.; Dept of Animal Science, University of Saskatchewan, SASKATOON SK, Canada S7N 0WO Stewart-Cox, Miss B.; Long Mead, Brixton Deverill, WARMINSTER, Wilts BA12 7EJ STJERNSTEDT, R.; PO Box 91, slavonca, Zambia Stone, N. H. F.; 64 Trinity Road, Old Wolverton, MILTON KEYNES, Bucks MK12 5PB (Committee 1986-1990) Stott, R. D. E.; 503 May Tower, 7 May Road, Hong Kong STRAHL, Dr S. D.; Wildlife Conservation International, Bronx Zoological Park, 185th Street & Southern Blvd, BRONX, NY 10460, USA Straw, P.; EMU, Water Board, PO Box A53, syDNEY SOUTH, NSW 2000, Australia Stronacu, N. R. H.; 87 Dorney Court, SHANKILL, Co Dublin, Eire Stuart, DrS.N.; Species Survival Commission, IUCN, Avenue de Mont Blanc, CH 1196 GLanp, Switzerland SUMMERFIELD, Dr B. J.; 11a Avenue Gdns, MarRGATE, Kent CT9 3BD SuMMeERs-SmITH, J. D.; Merlewood, The Avenue, GUISBOROUGH, Cleveland TS14 8EE Swasu, A. R. H.; 1 Romans Gate, Pamber Heath, BASINGSTOKE, Hants RG26 6EH Ta.sort, G. J.; 58 Ash Close, SWAFFHAM, Norfolk PE37 7NH TavsoT KELLy, Miss C. E.; 22 St Philips Road, LeicesTER LES 5TQ TANNER, A. R.; 24 Eustace Road, East Ham, LONDON E6 3ND Tate, P.; Half Acre Rooks Hill, nicKMANSWORTH, Herts WD3 4H3 (Hon. Treasurer 1962-1974) Tay_or, P. B.; Dept of Zoology, University of Natal, PO Box 375, PIETERMARITZBURG 3200, South Africa Terxetra, Prof. D. L. M.; Museu Nacional, Quinta da Boa Vista, Soa Cristovao, RIO DE JANIERO, RJ CEP 20940, Brazil THIBAULT, J-C.; La Bergerie, 20253 pATRIMONIO, France TuiebE, Dr W.; An der Ronne 184, D-5 KoLN 40, Germany Tuomas, Mrs B. T.; Waterfield, Route 1, Box 212c, cASTLETON, VA 22716, USA Tuomas, Dr D. H.; School of Biology, University of Wales at Cardiff, PO Box 915, carpiFF CF1 3TL THompson, K. V.; Primrose Bank, Gaggerhill Lane, Brighstone, NEWPORT, Isle of Wight PO30 4DX THompson, P.; Middlesex Polytechnic, Queensway, ENFIELD, Middx EN3 4SF Timmis, W. H.; Curator, Lotherton Hall Bird Garden, Towton Road, Nr Abberford, LEEDS LS25 3EB Topp, D.; Dressors, EVERSLEY, Hants RG23 OPJ Topp, W.; 1521 Missouri Apt 2, HouSTON, TX 77006-2525, USA Tomuins, A. D.; 29 Gerard Road, Barnes, LONDON SW13 9RQ TostTain, O.; 7 Place du General de Gaulle, 77850 HERICY, France Toyne, E. P.; Dept of Biology, Imperial College, LONDON SW7 2BB Tray_or, Major M. A.; Birds Division, Field Museum of Natural History, cH1caco, IL 60605, USA Tucker, J. J.; 13 Brook Road, pontesBuryY, Shropshire SY4 30U Tucker, N. A.; 8 Julius Road, Bishopston, BRISTOL BS7 8EU Tucker, W. T.; 61 Main St, KINGSTON, NH 03848-3209, USA ‘Turner, A.; 2 Valley Road, Heckenthorpe, SHEFFIELD S12 4LH Turner, C. F.; Lakers, Church Road, St Johns, REDHILL, Surrey RH1 6QA Turner, D. A.; PO Box 48019, NarroBI, Kenya Turtak, H. 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L.; Mount Cottage, PANWICH, Derbyshire DE6 1QJ WaLt, J. W.; 19 Tisdale Road, scarspaLe, NY 10583-5613, USA Watmos_ey, M. A.; Woodpeckers, Broughton, STOCKBRIDGE, Hants SO20 8BD Watsu, Dr J. F.; 80 Arundel Road, LyTHAM ST ANNES, Lancs FY8 1BN Watters, M. P.; Sub-Dept of Ornithology, British Museum (Natural History), TRING, Herts HP23 6AP Watters, R.; Morskade 18, 2332 GB Le1pEn, Netherlands WarHAM, Dr J.; 14 Konini Street, cHRISTCHURCH 4, New Zealand 1984 1989 1985 1989 1981 1986 1967 1975 1990 1986 1985 1973 1988 1987 1980 1991 1984 1989 1982 1987 1989 1987 1986 1951 1988 1989 1985 1985 1976 1987 1991 1976 1990 1985 1961 1987 1984 1983 1990 1988 1963 1973 Xli Warr, Mrs F. E.; 6 Mansion Drive, TRING, Herts HP23 5BD Warren, R. A.; 45 Arkwright Road, Irchester, WELLINGBOROUGH, Northants NN9 7EE WarRINER, R. E.; 9 Bucklands View, Nailsea, BRISTOL, Avon BS19 2TZ Waters, Prof. W. 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J.; Singel 282, 3311 HK porprecut, Netherlands WILKINSON, Sir Denys, F.R.S.; Gayles Orchard, Friston, EASTBOURNE, Sussex BN20 OBA WILKINSON, Dr R.; 2 Weston Grove, UPTON-BY-CHESTER, Cheshire CH2 1Q]J WILKINSON, Sir WILLIAM; 119 Castelnau, Barnes, LONDON SW13 YEL WILLEMYNsS, F.; Dianadreef 31, 82000 BruGGE, Belgium WIittetTT, D. R.; 18 Main Street, Newbold Verdon, LEICESTER LE9 9NL WituiaMs, Dr E. J.; 24 Birkett Drive, ULVERSTON, Cumbria LA129LS WIL.tiaMs, J. G.; 14 Tyne Road, oAKHAM, Rutland LE15 6SJ WituiaMs, K. F.; 11 Gable Close, DAVENTRY, Northants NN11 4EX WILLIAMS, R. G.; 2 Milwain Road, STRETFORD, Manchester M32 9BY Witson, H. E.; PO Box 10463, MARINE PARADE 4056, South Africa Witson, Dr J. D.; c/o B.T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk [P24 2PU Witson, R. T.; Bartridge House, UMBERLEIGH, Devon EX7 9AS WINFIELD, K. W.; 7 Burlington Road, skEGNEss, Lincs PE25 2EW Witter, M.S., Zoology Dept., Bristol University, Woodland Road, BristoL BS8 1UG Woop, Dr J. B.; Ecology and Conservation Unit, Biology Dept, University College London, Gower Street, LONDON WCI1E 6BT Woop, K. P.; 6 Manor Grove, TONBRIDGE, Kent TN10 3DT Woop, V. J.; PO Box 401, DALBy, Queensland 4405, Australia Woopcock, M. W.; The Fives, Elderden Farm, Staplehurst, TONBRIDGE, Kent TTN12 0RN (Hon. Secretary 1965-1969) Woobs, R. W.; 68 Aller Park Road, NEWTON ABBOT, Devon TQ124NQ Woopson, J. L.; 410 North 600 East, LoGAN, Utah 84321, USA Wricut, A. A.; 7 Fairhurst Drive, Parbold, wiGAn, Lancs WN8 7DJ Youna, H. G.; Downstairs Flat, Stathyre, Rue Piece de Mauger, sT saviour, Jersey, Channel Islands ZieGLER, A. P.; Titcombs, Sheep Street, BURFORD OX8 4LT Ziswiter, Prof. Dr V.; Zoological Museum of the University of Zurich, Kunstlergasse 16, CH 8006 zuricu, Switzerland ZONFRILLO, B.; 28 Brodie Road, GLascow G21 3SB X1i1 LIST OF AUTHORS AND CONTENTS ASH, J.S.& NIKOLAUS, G. Desert Sparrows Passer simplex in the Sudan...... 237 BARRINGTON, F. J. F. See Chairman’s Address 21.5.91. BEAVERS, R. A., DELANEY, D.J., LEAHY, C. W. & OATMAN, F. G. New and noteworthy bird records from Peten, Guatemala, including Tikal National Park vig BEEHLER, B. M. See RIPLEY, S. DILLON BENCKE, G. A. See PETRY, M. V. BIBBY, C.J.& DEL NEVO, A. J. A first record of Pterodroma feae from the Azores 183 BOOKS REGCEDVED Fe see ac seo erertes cise al outersysh Rae Rete eee areas 55,110,175, 239 BROWNING, M. R. Taxonomic comments on the Dunlin Calidris alpina from nonthernpAlaskaiandieasterniSiberiays,. trans eet sere asia an etlane al aa at 140 BROWNING, M.R., ERARD, C. & SCHIFTER, H. The nomenclatural status of Trogon leverianus Shaw, 1792, and Trogon sallaei Bonaparte, 1856 ........... 41 CABOT, J. Distribution and habitat selection of Buteo polyosoma & B. poecilochrous in Bolivia‘and neighbouring, countries. :,.... dy) fabaadeas ok. rte ade tee 199 CARDOSO DA SILVA, J. M. & OREN, D. C. A new subspecies of Xiphocolaptes major, (Nieillot) from:Argentina soja mics: ie tds ene See ROR CR lne Riabok 147 CARDOSO DA SILVA, J. M. Geographical variations in the Saffron-billed Sparrow,Arnremoniflavinostrtsy-¥: Seed cee hie APART eee oe HGRA le EES Ro vase 152 CASTILLO, U. A. See PARKER III, T. A. CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS given on 21 May 1991 by R. E. F. PEAL on F. J. F. BARRINGTON and HERBERT STEVENS — Benefactors of the Club .... 177 CHAPPUIS, C. & ERARD, C. A new cisticola from west-central Africa ......... 59 CLANCEY, P. A. On the races of Anthus caffer Sundevall, 1850 occurring in eastern /3X 1. (Cr: aN N OREO UCPC CICS ere LEER HOMO REPENS Likgl eas oad cho Open deme ahatd rokeeang U3 Wea tal 36 — On the generic status and geographical variation of the Namaqua Prinia...... 101 — The generic status of Roberts’ Prinia of the south-eastern Afrotropics........ 217 CLUB NOTICES Report of the Committee for 1990 & A.G:M. Agenda... .2...00.000. 00.0004: 1 AnnualiGeneralsMVieetin gies sss eise Mveieee he he ena ye epiaets het ee ots Ie aA ee 113 IMeetim earepORts isle ieee eo SR es Bap fe BHO AY AL be) ial 67/7) COLLINS, C. T., MARIN, A. M. & LENTINO, R. M. Natal pterylosis of Premnoplex brunnescens, Thripadectes virgaticeps and Synallaxis candei (Furman dae) a Le eis Rescate ho ee IN ee Pa HED oa Eey tcon is VATS 118 CORDERO, P. J. Phenotypes of adult hybrids between House Sparrow Passer domesticus and Tree Sparrow Passer montanus..........0 cece reece eben eens 44 DELANEY, D. J. See BEAVER, R. A. DEL NEVO, A. J. See BIBBY, C. J. DHINDSA, M. & SAINI, H. K. An extra rectrix in the Small Green Bee-eater ... 173 DICK, JA. Grey-tatled’Pihain Colombia). Pee ys sate Sees Reh et cea elec 172 DICKERMAN, R. W. See HINKELMANN, C. DICKINSON, E. C. See PARKES, K. C. DYRCZ, A. Observations on nesting and nestling growth in the Rusty-margined Flycatcher Myiozetetes cayanensis in south-eastern Peru................005- 33 ERARD, C. See BROWNING, M. R. —— See CHAPPUIS, C. FJELDSA, J. The activity of birds during snow-storms in high-level woodland in Perute pels eee eis Be SI Pee ae ee a Ta | a ee 4 GELL-MAN, M. See PARKER III, T. A. GRAVES, G. R. Taxonomic status of the Sword-billed Hummingbird Ensifera ENSI{EVG CACTILESCENS DA AIBA yh PECAN AOR) SE CO LEE 139 HERREMANS, M., LOUETTE, M. & STEVENS, J. Discovery of the nest of Humblot’s Flycatcher Humblotia flavirostris. 2... .00¢ 0 0c c ee cei cnet 145 HINKELMANN, C., NICOLAIT, B. & DICKERMAN, R. W. Notes on a hitherto unknown specimen of Neolesbia nehrkorni (Berlepsch, 1887; Trochilidae) witha discussionjotthe hy bridjoriginiot thisuspecies. - nite acces eee ie le eee 190 IRWIN, M. P. S. The specific characters of the Slender-tailed Cisticola Cisticola TELAT Gs (G@AATMIS) pen tee Meee ae Oe eR aie aa aa 228 ISENMANN, P. Breeding of Tawny Pipits in southern Mauritania.............. 172 KING; J. R. Body weights ofisome Ecuadoreanibirds).,. 220. cele it 46 XIV KLEIN, G.N. See Petry, M. V. LEAHY, C. W. See BEAVER, R. A. LENTINO, R. M. See COLLINS, C. T. MOURMLE,NVEpihe red-tailed/buzzards.ofiZairejsereeiisosi aceee oe aCe See also HERREMANS, M. MARIN, A. M. See COLLINS, C. T. MEES, G. F. The type locality of Halcyon coromanda rufa Wallace .............. NICOLAIT, B. Se HINKELMANN, C. NIKOLAUS, G. See ASH, J. 5S. NOVAES, F.C. Anew subspecies of Grey-cheeked Nunlet Nonnula ruficapilla from BrazilranvAmiaZonia we Kegos egy ewer epee ee! I Ee Se OR eee OATMAN, F. G. See BEAVER, R. A. OLIVER, P. J. Seychelles Sunbird Nectarinia dussumieri piercing flowers ........ OLSON, S. L. Remarks on the fossil record and suprageneric nomenclature of barbetsi(AvesRamphastidae) 0. Hoh chtctacc nice «meena a teeneee arch coer fhe Monee OREN, D. C. See CARDOSO DA SILVA, J. M. PARKER III, T. A. & ROCHA, O. O. Notes on the status and behaviour of the Rusty-necked:Piculet Picummnus.fuscus 0)... S00 PAS OT, en —, CASTILLO, U. A., GELL-MAN, M. & ROCHA, O. O. Records of new and unusual. birds from northern Boliviaz 4. faa OA Ae PARKES, K.C.& DICKINSON, E. C. Types, type localities and variation in some races of the Colasisi or Philippine Hanging Parrot Loriculus philippensis....... PAYNE, R. B. Female and first-year male plumage of paradise whydahs Vidua INECT ICCTA PUN id eed che MERU RY GR ag Nea EMEC MAS! SUR) LVRS TTA UNE SOS AN na PEAL, R. E. F. See Chairman’s Address 21. 5. 91. PEARSON, D. L. See SERVAT, G. PERES, C. A. & WHITTAKER, A. Annotated checklist of the bird species of the upper,-Rio Wrucuy Amazonas Brazil .qplaveranties tenshenenaiieue eae sian donot eae ee PETERSON, A. TOWNSEND. New distributional information on the Aphelocomaljyays Oat EOE TARR ROL ele eee ELIE AL BRET ND. SET Ea ae PETRY, M. V., BENCKE, G. A. & KLEIN, G. N. First record of the Shy Albatross Diomedea cauta for the Brazilian coast..........0..0000 00sec eee PRYS-JONES, R. P. The occurrence of biannual primary moult in passerines .... RIDGELY, R.S. See ROBBINS, M.B. RIPLEY, S. DILLON, SAHA, S.5S. & BEEHLER, B. M. Notes on birds from the Upper Noa Dihing, Arunachal Pradesh, northeastern India................. ROBBINS, M.B.& RIDGELY, R.S. Sipia rosenbergi (Formicariidae) isa synonym of Myrmeciza (laemosticta) nigricauda, with comments on the validity of the PENUSPSUDL i sos dovierese ts ke rope giao rae RNS OE MOL ie AURA) hea ee LE aS at ROCHA, O. O. See PARKER III, T. A. SAHA, S.S. See RIPLEY, S. DILLON SAINI, H. K. See DHINDSA, M. SCHIFTER, H. See BROWNING, M. R. SCHODDE, R. The Asian Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica affinis in Australia .... SERVAT, G. & PEARSON, D. L. Natural history notes and records for seven poorly known bird species from Amazonian Peru...............2.0020 eee ee SICK, H. Distribution and subspeciation of the Biscutate Swift Streptoprocne DUS CUTAEA Mle ee Ue asus soul ales veea eal a lore ye aa ain AVA MdC IR Pea ede a ke STEVENS, HERBERT. See Chairman’s Address 21.5.91. STEVENS, J. See HERREMANS, M. THIBAULT, J-C. & VARNEY, A. Breeding sea-birds of Rapa (Polynesia): numbers and changes during the 20th century ..: 2.0.6.0.) 0. VARNEY, A. See THIBAULT, J-C. WALSH, J. F. On the occurrence of the Black Stork Ciconia nigra in West Africa . . WHITTAKER, A. See PERES, C. A. YOUNG, G. Sexual dimorphism in Meller’s Duck Anus melleri................. 51 49 187 174 222 91 120 104 70 209 INDEX TO SCIENTIFIC NAMES (Compiled by Mary N. Muller) All generic and specific names (of birds only) are indexed. New subspecific names are indexed in bold print under generic, specific and subspecific names. Aburria pipile 165 Accipiter cooperii 81 — striatus 81 — — chionogaster 81 — superciliosus 122, 165 accipitrinus, Deroptyus 166 Acestrura mulsant 47 Acridotheres javanicus 20 — tristis 20 Acrocephalus sechellensis 150 actites, Calidris alpina 140-4 acutipennis, Chordeiles 166 aedon, Troglodytes 7 — musculus, Troglodytes 86 Aegithalos concinnus manipurensis 27 — — _rubricapillus 27 — — talifuensis 27 aenea, Chloroceryle 167 aenigma, Hemitriccus 134 Aeronautes andecolus 8 aethiops, Thamnophilus 168 Aethopyga siparaja 174 affinis, Sterna nilotica 215-6 — _, Veniliornis 167 Agapornis 54 Aglaeactis castelnaudii 6 Aglaiocercus kingi 190-7 — coelestis 190 Aimophila carpalis 150 Ajaia ajaja 164 ajaja, Ajaia 164 alba, Gygis 74-6 albicapilla, Cranioleuca 7 albicollis, Leucochloris 197 — , Leucopternis 165 — ,Nyctidromus 40, 166 — ,Turdus 48, 170 albifrons, Muscisaxicola 8 — ,Pithys 48 albirostris, Galbula 167 albiventer, Tachycineta 170 albolineatus, Lepidocolaptes 167 albonotatus, Buteo 81 albus, Casmerodius 164 — ,Eudocimus 80 Alcippe cinereiceps 25 — — manipurensis 26 — ludlowi 25-6 — manipurensis 25—6 — ruficapilla 25 — striaticollis 25 — vinipectus 25 — — bieti25 — — perstriata 25-6 Alectrurus tricolor 134-5 alnorum, Empidonax 85 Alopochelidon fucata 136 alpina, Calidris 140—4 — actites, Calidris 140-4 — _ arcticola, Calidris 140-4 — _kistchinski, Calidris 140-4 — littoralis, Calidris 140 — _ pacifica, Calidris 140-4 — _ sakhalina, Calidris 140-4 alpinus, Anairetes 7, 10 alticola, Poospiza 10 amabilis, Cotinga 86 Amazilia beryllina 84 — cyanocephala 84 — dumerilii 197 — lactea 197 — leucogaster 197 — versicolor 166 Amazona spp. 125 — autumnalis 166 — farinosa 166 — _ vinacea 40 amazona, Chloroceryle 167 amazonicus, Thamnophilus 168 Amblycercus holosericeus 89 americana, Chloroceryle 166 — , Parula 87 americanus, Coccyzus 84 — _, Daptrius 165 Ammodramus caudacutus 150 Ampelion rubrocristatus 48 Anabacerthia striaticollis 131 Anabazenops fuscus 128 Anairetes alpinus 7, 10 — parulus 48 analis, Catamenia 48 — _, Formicarius 168 Anas melleri 225-8 Ancistrops strigilatus 168 andecolus, Aeronautes 8 andicola, Grallaria 7, 8 Andigena hypoglauca 224 — _ nigrirostris 224 angolensis, Oryzoborus 40, 162, 170 — _, Uraeginthus 234 angusticauda, Cisticola 229-36 angustifrons, Psarocolius 137, 171 Anhima cornuta 93 Anhinga anhinga 164 ani, Crotophaga 166 Anous stolidus 74 Anthracothorax nigricollis 166 Anthus spp. 37 — brachyurus 36 — caffer 36-7 — — australoabyssinicus 36—7 — — blayneyi 36-7 Anthus caffer mzimbaensis 36—7 — — traylori 36-7 — _sokokensis 36 Apalis 217-20, 229, 233-4 — melanura 229, 234 — pulchra 219-20 Aphelocoma 28-32 — coerulescens 29-32 — — remota 32 — —_ sumichrasti 32 — _ultramarina 31-2 — _unicolor 31-2 — — guerrerensis 31 apicalis, Loriculus philippensis 108—9 aquila, Eutoxeres 47 Ara ararauna 165 — chloroptera 165 — couloni 124 — macao 165 — manilata 165 — _ severa 165 aracari, Pteroglossus 167 arada, Cyphorhinus 170 Aramides cajanea 165 — calopterus 165 ararauna, Ara 165 Aratinga mitrata 8 Archilochus colubris 85 arcticola, Calidris alpina 140—4 Ardea cinerea 210 aridula, Cisticola 69 aricomae, Cinclodes 7 aroyae, Thamnophilus 129 Arremon aurantiirostris 48 — flavirostris 152-5 — — devilli 153-5 — — dorbignii 153-5 — — flavirostris 153-5 — — polionotus 153-5 — taciturnus taciturnus 155 assimilis, Myrmotherula 91, 130 — myrtae, Puffinus 71 — ,Puffinus 72, 74-5 — ,Tolmomyias 169 Asthenes dorbignyi 9 — humilis 7 — modesta 7 ater, Daptrius 165 Atlapetes rufinucha 48 — torquatus 48 atratus, Carduelis 7-8 — ,Coragyps 164 atricaudus, Myiobius 169 atricilla, Larus 82 Atticora fasciata 170 Attila cinnamomeus 169 — spadiceus 169 aucupum, Vidua paradisaea 96-8 augur, Buteo 53-4 auguralis, Buteo 51-4 Aulacorhynchus prasinus dimidiatus 127 aura, Cathartes 122, 164 aurantiirostris, Arremon 48 aurantiiventris, Trogon 42-3 aurantioatrocristatus, Empidonomus 169 aurea, Jacamerops 167 aurescens, Polyplancta 166 auriculata, Zenaida 38 aurifrons, Picumnus 91 — _borbae, Picumnus 91 aurita, Conopophaga 168 — , Heliothryx 166 australoabyssinicus, Anthus caffer 36—7 Automolus dorsalis 120, 128 — infuscatus 128, 168 — melanopezus 129 — rubiginosus 129 — rufipileatus 128, 168 autumnalis, Amazona 166 axillaris, Myrmotherula 91, 130, 168 azarae, Synallaxis 47 bairdii, Drymoica 221 — _,Herpystera 219, 221 bambla, Microcerculus 94 Bambusicola fytchii 20 baroni, Metallura 47 barrabandi, Pionopsitta 125, 166 Baryphthengus martii 167 Basileuterus coronatus 48 — fulvicauda 48 — — _ fulvicauda 171 — nigrocristatus 48 — rufifrons 88 Batis minor 53 beauharnaesil, Pteroglossus 167 Berlepschia rikeri 128 berlepschi, Cercomacra 13 — ,Myrmeciza 11-18 — , Rhegmatorhina 168 — ,Sipia 11—17 beryllina, Amazilia 84 bidentatus, Harpagus 165 bicolor, Tachycineta 86 bieti, Alcippe vinipectus 25 bifasciatus, Psarocolius 137 biscutata, Chaetura 38 — ,Streptoprocne 38-40 — biscutata, Streptoprocne 39-40 biscutata seridoenis, Streptoprocne subsp. nov. 39-40 blayneyi, Anthus caffer 36—7 bodessa, Cisticola 61 boissonneautii, Pseudocolaptes 47 bolivari, Myrmeciza laemosticta 11—18 boliviana, Tangara mexicana 170 borbae, Picumnus aurifrons 91 borealis, Phylloscopus 151 bournis, Loriculus philippensis 106—9 bouvronides, Sporophila 162, 170 braccatus, Trogon 42 Brachypteryx hyperythra 26 brachyura, Myrmotherula 168 brachyurus, Anthus 36 — ,Buteo 81 brasiliana, Hydropsalis 40 brasilianum, Glaucidium 166 brevis, Ramphastos 16 Brotogeris versicolorus 166 brunneiventris, Diglossa 7 brunnescens, Margarornis 118 — ,Premnoplex 118-19 Bubulcus ibis 164 Bucco capensis 167 — miacrodactylus 167 — tamatia 167 bufftonii, Chalybura 193 burmeisteri, Phyllomyias 132 Burnesia 101 burrovianus, Cathartes 80, 122 Busarellus nigricollis 165 Buteo albonotatus 81 — augur 53-4 — auguralis 51-4 — brachyurus 81 — nitidus 165 — oreophilus 53-4 — platypterus 165 — poecilochrous 199-209 — polyosoma 199-209 exsul 199 — rufofuscus 53-4 Buteogallus urubitinga 165 Butorides striatus 164 cachabiensis, Thamnophilus 13 cachinnans, Herpetotheres 165 Cacicus cela 171 — sclateri 94 — solitarius 94 caelestipileata, Pipra coronata 169 caerulatus livingstoni, Garrulax 24 caerulescens, Ensifera ensifera 139 caeruleus, Cyanerpes 170 caesius, Thamnomanes 168 caffer, Anthus 36-7 — australoabyssincus, Anthus 36—7 — blayneyi, Anthus 36—7 — mzimbaensis, Anthus 36 — traylori, Anthus 37 cahow, Pterodroma 183-5 Cairina moschata 164 — scutulata 19 cajanea, Aramides 165 Calidris alpina 140-4 actites 140-4 arcticola 140-4 kistchinski 140-4 littoralis 140 pacifica 140-4 sakhalina 140-4 caligatus, Trogon 42-3 calliparaea, Chlorochrysa 48 callophrys, Tangara 137 Calonectris diomedea 185 calopterus, Aramides 165 Camaroptera spp. 220 Campephilus rubricollis 167 Camptostoma obsoletum 169 XVil Campylopterus falcatus 47 — largipennis 166 Campylorhamphus procurvoides 167 Campylorhynchus turdinus 126, 170 — zonatus 86 canadensis, Caryothraustes 161, 170 — , Wilsonia 88 candei, Poecilurus 118 — _, Synallaxis 118-19 caniceps, Myiopagis 169 cantator, Hypocnemis 168 capensis, Bucco 167 — _, Zonotrichia 7, 48, 151 Capito niger punctatus 167 Capitonides sp. 222-4 — europaeus 222-4 — protractus 223-4 Camprimulgus indicus jotaka 20 — longirostris 47 carbo, Ramphocelus 137, 162, 170 Carduelis atrata 7, 8 — _ crassirostris 7-10 carpalis, Aimophila 150 Caryothraustes canadensis 161, 170 Casmerodius albus 164 cassinnii, Leptotila 83 castanea, Dendroica 88 castaneus, Pachyramphus 169 castaneus, Xiphocolaptes major 147—9 castelnau, Picumnus 91 castelnaudi, Aglaeactis 6 castro, Oceanodroma 185 Catamblyrhynchus diadema 48 Catamenia analis 48 — inornata 8, 48 Cathartes aura 122, 164 — burrovianus 80, 122 — melambrotus 164 Catharus dryas 48 — minimus 161, 170 caudacuta, Culicivora 132, 135 caudacutus, Ammodramus 150 — ,Sclerurus 168 cauta, Diomedea 189 — cauta, Diomedea 189 — eremita, Diomedea 189 — _ salvini, Diomedea 189 cayana, Cotinga 169 — , Dacnis 133,170 — ,Piaya 93, 166 — ,Tityra170 cayanensis, Icterus 171 — , Leptodon 80 — ,Mryiozetetes 33-5 cayanus, Hoploxypterus 165 cayennensis, Columba 83 — _,Mesembrinibis 164 — ,Panyptila 126, 166 cela, Cacicus 171 celata, Vermivora 87 Celeus elegans 167 — flavus 167 — grammicus 167 Celeus torquatus 167 Cephalopterus ornatus 93, 127, 169 Cercomacra 13-14 — _ berlepschi 13 — cinerascens 168 — manu 128 — nigrescens 168 — nigricauda 13 — _rosenbergi 13 — serva47 certhia, Dendrocolaptes 167 certhiola, Locustella 150 cerulea, Procelsterna 73-4 Ceryle torquata 166 Chaetura biscutata 38 — chapmani 166 — cinereiventris 126, 166 — egregia 126 — _ spinicauda 166 — zonaris 38 Chalcostigma stanleyi 5, 8, 9 chalybeata, Vidua 99 Chalybura buffonii 193 Chamaeza nobilis 131, 168 chapmani, Chaetura 166 Chauna torquata 92 Chelidoptera tenebrosa 167 chiguanco, Turdus 7 chilensis, Tangara 94, 137, 162 — chilensis, Tangara 170 chiniana, Cisticola 61 chionogaster, Accipiter striatus 81 Chiroxiphia pareola regina 169 Chlorestes notatus 197 chloris, Piprites 169 Chloroceryle aenea 167 — amazona 167 — americana 166 — inda167 Chlorochrysa calliparaea 48 chloromeros, Pipra 133 Chlorophanes spiza 133, 170 Chloropipo holochlora 48 chloroptera, Ara 165 chloropus, Gallinula 82 Chlorospingus ophthalmicus 131 Chlorostilbon mellisugus 166 chlorotica, Euphonia 40 chocolatinus chocolatinus, Spelaeornis 21 — _ reptatus, Spelaeornis 21 Chondrohierax uncinatus 165 Chordeiles acutipennis 166 — minor 166 —, rupestris 125 chrysochloros, Piculus 167 chrysocrotaphum, Todirostrum 169 chrysonotus, Loriculus philippensis 105, 107-8 chrysopasta, Euphonia 170 chrysopeplus, Pheucticus 48 Chrysuronia oenone 193, 197 Ciccaba huhula 166 Ciconia ciconia 214 XVill — episcopus 210, 213 — nigra 209-14 Cinclidium frontale orientale 26 — leucurum 27 Cinclodes aricomae 7 — excelsior7 — fuscus 7-8 Cinclus leucocephalus 48 cinerascens, Cercomacra 168 cinerea, Ardea 210 cinereiceps, Alcippe 25-6 — manipurensis, Alcippe 26 cinereiventris, Chaetura 126, 166 cinereola, Cisticola 65 cinereum, Conirostrum 7, 48 cinereus, Crypturellus 163-4 cinnamomeus, Attila 169 — _,Crypturellus 79 cirratus, Picumnus 91 Cissopis leveriana 126, 161, 170 Cisticola 219, 229 — angusticauda 229-36 — aridula 69 — _bodessa 61 — chiniana 61 — cinereola 65 Cisticola dorsti sp. nov. 59-69 — fulvicapilla 229-36 — — dispar 229-35 — — muelleri 232 -—— guinea 59-69 — lais 220 — lateralis 65 — melanura 228-36 — _ pearsoni 229-35 — _ruficeps 59-69 — — _ guinea 59-69 — — mongalla 59-63,66 — — ruficeps 63, 66 — — _ scotoptera 60-3 Cistothorus palustris 151 — platensis 48, 150 climacocerca, Hydropsalis 125 Cnemotriccus fuscatus 169 Cnipodectes subbrunneus 169 Cochlearius cochlearius 164 Coccyzus americanus 84 — _ erythropthalmus 84 coelestis, Aglaiocercus 190 Coeligena iris 47 Coereba flaveola 48, 162, 170 coerulescens, Aphelocoma 29-32 — remota, Aphelocoma 32 —- sumichrasti, Aphelocoma 32 Colaptes rupicola 7—8 Colibri coruscans 47 collaris, Trogon 42 colma, Formicarius 168 colombica, Thalurania 193—7 colubris, Archilochus 85 Columba cayennensis 83 — flavirostris 83 — livia 83 Columba plumbea 165 — subvinacea 165 Columbina inca 83 — talpacoti 162, 165 concinnus manipurensis, Aegithalos 27 — rubricapillus, Aegithalos 27 — talifuensis, Aegithalos 27 confinis, Prinia substriata subsp. nov. 103-4 collurio, Lanius 150 Conirostrum cinereum 7, 48 Conopias parva 169 Conopophaga aurita 168 — peruviana 120, 131 Conothraupis speculigera 120, 137 Contopus virens 169 cooperu, Accipiter 81 Coragyps atratus 164 cornuta, Anhima 93 coromanda, Halcyon 50 — major, Halcyon 50 — pelingensis, Halcyon 51 — rufa, Halcyon 49-51 — sulana, Halcyon 50-1 coronata, Pipra 133 — caelestipileata, Pipra 169 coronatus, Basileuterus 48 — _,Onychorhynchus 40, 169 — ,Platyrinchus 169 coruscans, Colibri 47 Coryllis hartlaubi 108—9 — occipitalis 106—9 Corythaixoides 54 Corythopis torquata 48, 169 Cotinga amabilis 86 — cayana 169 couloni, Ara 124 Cranioleuca sp. 9 — albicapilla 7 — curtata 127 crassirostris, Carduelis 7—9 Crax mitu 162, 165 Crinifer 54 cristatus, Lanius 150-1 — ,Oxyruncus 120, 131 — , Tachyphonus 170 Crotophaga ani 166 — major 166 cruentatus, Melanerpes 162, 167 cryptolophus, Lipaugus 172 Crypturellus cinereus 163-4 — cinnamomeus 79 — soui 164 — strigulosus 121 — undulatus 164 — variegatus 121, 164 Culicivora caudacuta 132, 135 curtata, Cranioleuca 127 curruca, Sylvia 237 curucul, Trogon 166 cuvieri, Ramphastos tucanus 167 cyanea, Diglossa 48 Cyanerpes caeruleus 170 — cyaneus 170 — nitidus 170 cyaneus, Cyanerpes 170 Cyanicterus cyanicterus 161, 170 cyanocephala, Amazilia 84 Cyanocompsa cyanoides 170 Cyanocorax cyanomelas 137 — violaceus 136, 171 cyanoides, Cyanocompsa 170 Cyanolesbia kingi 193 — nehrkorni 190 cyanomelas, Cyanocorax 137 cyanopterus, Pterophanes 6-9, 47 cyanotis, Tangara 131 Cyclarhis gujanensis 87 Cymbilaimus lineatus 168 sanctaemariae 128 Cyphorhinus arada 170 — thoracicus 120, 136 Dacnis cayana 133, 170 — flaviventer 170 — lineata 133, 170 Daptrius americanus 165 — ater165 dea, Galbula 167 Deconychura longicauda 168 — _ stictolaema 168 decumanus, Psarocolius 137 delawarensis, Larus 83 Dendrocincla fuliginosa 47, 167 — merula 167 Dendrocolaptes certhia 167 — picumnus 167 Dendrocygna viduata 65 Dendroica castanea 88 — dominica 87 — graciae 87 — tigrina 87 Dendropicos goertae 53 Deroptyus accipitrinus 166 devillei, Drymophila 168 devilli, Arremon flavirostris 153—5 diadema, Catamblyrhynchus 48 Diglossa brunneiventris 7 — cyanea 48 — humeralis 48 — _ sittoides 48 dimidiatus, Aulacorhynchus prasinus 127 Diomedea cauta 189 — — cauta189 — — eremita 189 — —_ salvini 189 diomedea, Calonectris 185 dispar, Cisticola fulvicapilla 229, 231-5 divaricatus, Pericrocotus 151 Dolichonyx oryzivorus 151 domesticus, Passer 44-5 dominica, Dendroica 87 — ,Oxyura 164 dorbigni, Arremon flavirostris 153—5 dorbignyi, Asthenes 9 dorbygnianus, Picumnus 91 dorsalis, Automolus 120, 128 dorsti, Cisticola sp. nov. 59-69 dryas, Catharus 48 Drymoica bairdii 221 erythroptera 221 leucopogon 221 macroura 101 substriata 101—2, 218, 221 Drymophila devillei 168 Dryocopus lineatus 162, 167 Dryodromas melanura 229 pearsoni 229 Dubusia taeniata 48 dumerilii, Amazilia 197 dussumieri, Nectarinia 150, 174 Dybowskia kemoensis 221 Dysithamnus mentalis 47 egregia, Chaetura 126 Egretta thula 164 Elaenia flavogaster 85, 169 parvirostris 169 Elanoides forficatus 165 elatus, Tyrannulus 169 Electron platyrhynchum 167 elegans, Celeus 167 Emberiza rutila 27 Empidonax alnorum 85 traillii 85 Empidonomus aurantioatrocristatus 169 varius 169 Ensifera ensifera 47, 139 caerulescens 139 Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis 210 epichlora, Urolais 219, 221 episcopus, Ciconia 210, 213 , Thraupis 88, 170 eremita, Diomedea cauta 189 Eriocnemis luciani 47 vestitus 47 erythrocercus, Philydor 168 erythroptera, Drymoica 221 , Heliolais 219, 221 , Phlegopsis 168 erythropterus, Philydor 168 erythropthalmus, Coccyzus 84 erythrothorax, Synallaxis 85 erythrurus, Terenotriccus 169 estebani, Xiphocolaptes major subsp. nov. 147-9 Eubucco richardsoni 167 tucinkae 120, 126 Eucometis penicillata 170 Eudocimus albus 80 eulophotes, Lophotriccus 93 Euphonia chlorotica 40 chrysopasta 170 laniirostris 170 minuta 170 rufiventris 170 xanthogaster 48 europaeus, Capitonides 222-4 Euryptila subcinnamomea 104 XX petrophila 104 Eurypyga helias 165 Eutoxeres aquila 47 excelsior, Cinclodes 7 exilis, Ixobrychus 80 , Laterallus 122, 165 , Picumnus 91 exsul, Buteo polyosoma 199 , Myrmeciza 12-15 falcatus, Campylopterus 47 Falco peregrinus japonensis 20 rufigularis 165 tinnunculus 54 familiaris, Prinia 101, 218, 220 farinosa, Amazona 166 fasciata, Atticora 170 fasciatus, Phyllomyias 131 feae, Pterodroma 183-5 ferox, Myiarchus 169 ferruginosus namdapha, Pomatorhinus 20 Ficedula parva 220 flammulatus, Thripadectes 47 flaveola, Coereba 48, 162, 170 flavicans, Prinia 218-19 flavicollis, Hemithraupis 161, 170 flavigula, Piculus 167 flavipes, Tringa 82 flavirostris, Arremon 152-5 devilli, Arremon 153-5 dorbignii, Arremon 153-5 flavirostris, Arremon 153-5 polionotus, Arremon 153-5 , Columba 83 , Humblotia 145 , Pteroglossus 167 flaviventer, Dacnis 170 flavogaster, Elaenia 85, 169 flavus, Celeus 167 Florisuga mellivora 166 fluviatilis, Locustella 150 , Prinia 219 foetidus, Gymnoderus 169 forficatus, Elanoides 165 Formicarius analis 168 colma 168 Formicivora grisea 130 forresti, Xiphirhynchus superciliaris 20 fortis, Myrmeciza 15, 130, 168 fraseri, Oreomanes 7—9 Frederickena unduligera 120, 129 Fregetta grallaria 71—4 titan 71 frontale orientale, Cinclidium 26 frontalis, Nonnula 187 , Ochthoeca 48 fucata, Alopochelidon 136 fulica, Heliornis 165 fuliginosa, Dendrocincla 47, 167 , Nesofregetta 73—5 fulvicapilla, Cisticola 229-36 dispar, Cisticola 229-35 muelleri, Cisticola 232 fulvicauda, Basileuterus 48 — fulvicauda, Basileuterus 171 fumicolor, Ochthoeca 48 fumigatus, Ochthoeca 8 furcata, Thalurania 47, 166, 193-7 — nigrofasciata, Thalurania 193-5 fuscata, Sterna 71 fuscater, Turdus 48 fuscatus, Cnemotriccus 169 fuscicauda, Ramphotrigon 129 fuscus, Anabazenops 128 — , Cinclodes 7-8 — , Melanotrochilus 197 — _,Picumnus 91-2 fytchii, Bambusicola 20 gaimardii, Myiopagis 169 Galbula albirostris 167 — dea167 — tombacea 167 galeatus, Lophotriccus 169 gambensis, Plectropterus 210 Gallinula chloropus 82 Garrulax caerulatus livingstoni 24 — squamatus 24 genibarbis, Thryothorus 137, 170 Geothlypis poliocephala 88 Geotrygon montana 165 gigas, Patagona 6 gilvicollis, Micrastur 165 gilvus, Vireo 86 glabrirostris, Melanoptila 86 Glaucidium brasilianum 166 — minutissimum 84, 166 glaucopis, Thalurania 197 Glyphorhynchus spirurus 47, 168 goeldii, Myrmeciza 130 goertae, Dendropicos 53 graciae, Dendroica 87 gracilipes, Zimmerius 169 gracilis lepida, Prinia 101 Grallaria andicola 7-8 — rufula 48 — varia 168 grallaria, Fregetta 71, 73 — titan, Fregetta 71 grammicus, Celeus 167 grandis, Nyctibius 166 grisea, Formicivora 130 griseicapillus, Sittasomus 91, 168 griseus, Nyctibius 84 Gubernetes yetapa 135 guerrerensis, Aphelocoma unicolor 31 guianensis, Morphnus 81, 165 — ,Polioptila 160, 170 guimeti, Klais 47 guinea, Cisticola 59-69 — , — ruficeps 59-69 guira, Hemithraupis 131 gujanensis, Cyclarhis 87 — ,Odontophorus 165 gularis, Paroaria 170 — ,Synallaxis 47 XX1 guttatus, Tinamus 164 — __, Xiphorhynchus 167 guy, Phaethornis 47 Gygis alba 74-6 Gymnobuccini 225 Gymnobucconini 225 Gymnoderus foetidus 169 Gymnopithys salvini 168 gyrola, Tangara 131 Habia rubica 170 haematonota, Myrmotherula 168 Halcyon coromanda 50 major 50 pelingensis 51 rufa 49-51 sulana 50-1 — rufa49-51 haliaetus, Pandion 80 Harpagus bidentatus 165 Harpia harpyja 165 Harpyhaliaetus solitarius 81, 122 harpyja, Harpia 165 hartlaubi, Coryllis 108—9 hasitata, Pterodroma 184 hauxwelli, Myrmotherula 168 helenae, Lophornis 84 Heliangelus regalis 194-8 — viola 47 helias, Eurypyga 165 Heliolais erythroptera 219, 221 Heliornis fulica 165 Heliothryx aurita 166 hemileucurus, Phlogophilus 47 hemimelaena, Myrmeciza 168 Hemispingus superciliaris 48 Hemithraupis flavicollis 161, 170 — guira 131 Hemitriccus aenigma 134 — minor 134, 169 — _ spodiops 134 — zosterops 169 Henicorhina leucosticta 48' Herpetotheres cachinnans 165 Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus 160, 168 Herpystera bairdii 219, 221 Heterocercus linteatus 169 himantopus, Calidris 82 Hirundo pyrrhonota 86 hoazin, Opisthocomus 165 holochlora, Chloropipo 48 holosericeus, Amblycercus 89 Hoploxypterus cayanus 165 huetii, Touit 124 huhula, Ciccaba 166 Humblotia flavirostris 145 humei roberti, Sphenocichla 24 humeralis, Diglossa 48 — ,Terenura 130 humilis, Asthenes 7 Hydropsalis brasiliana 40 — climacocerca 125 Hylexetastes perrotii 167 Hyloctistes subulatus 168 Hylopezus macularius 168 Hylophilus hypoxanthus 171 ochraceiceps 171 Hylophylax naevia 48, 168 poecilonota 168 hyperythra, Brachypteryx 26 , Myrmeciza 168 Hypocnemis cantator 168 hypoglauca, Andigena 224 hypogrammica, Pytilia 96, 99 hypopyrrha, Laniocera 169 hypoxantha, Prinia 218-19 hypoxanthus, Hylophilus 171 ibis, Bubulcus 164 Icterus cayanensis 171 icterus 94 Ictinia plumbea 165 iheringi, Myrmotherula 129 immaculata, Myrmeciza 15 inca, Columbina 83 inda, Chloroceryle 167 indicus jotaka, Caprimulgus 20 indiraji, Spelaeornis troglodytoides subsp. nov. 21-4 inerme, Ornithion 132 infuscatus, Automolus 128, 168 inscriptus, Pteroglossus 167 interjecta, Vidua 95—9 intextus, Xiphirhynchus superciliaris 20 inornata, Catamenia 8, 48 inundata, Nonnula ruficapilla subsp. nov. 187-8 Iodopleura isabellae 169 iris, Coeligena 47 isabellae, Iodopleura 169 isabellinus, Lanius 150 Ixobrychus exilis 80 Jabiru mycteria 80 Jacamerops aurea 167 jacquacu, Penelope 162, 165 japonensis, Falco peregrinus 20 javanicus, Acridotheres 20 jotaka, Caprimulgus indicus 20 kemoensis, Dybowskia 221 kingi, Aglaiocercus 190-7 , Cyanolesbia 193 kistchinski, Calidris alpina 140-4 Klais guimeti 47 Knipolegus poecilocercus 169 signatus 134 kuhh, Leucopternis 165 lactea, Amazilia 197 laemosticta, Myrmeciza 11—17 bolivari, Myrmeciza 11—18 laemosticta, Myrmeciza 18 nigricauda, Myrmeciza 11-18 palliata, Myrmeciza 11-18 venezuelae 11-18 XX1l1 Lafresnaya lafresnayi 47 lafresnayi, Lafresnaya 47 , Picummus 167 lais, Cisticola 220 Lalage sueurii 150 Lamprospiza melanoleuca 161, 170 lanceolata, Micromonacha 160, 167 langsdorfh, Popelairia 166 laniirostris, Euphonia 170 Lanio versicolor 170 Laniocera hypopyrrha 169 Lanius collurio 150 cristatus 150-1 isabellinus 150 tigrinus 151 largipennis, Campylopterus 166 Larus atricilla 82 delawarensis 83 latebricola, Scytalopus 48 lateralis, Cisticola 65 Laterallus exilis 122, 165 melanophaius 123 viridis 123 lawrencii, Turdus 136 Legatus leucophaius 169 leontica, Prinia 219-21 lepida, Prinia 101 , Prinia gracilis 101 Lepidocolaptes albolineatus 167 souleyetii 85 Leptasthenura 7 Leptasthenura xenothorax 7-9 yanacensis 8, 10 Leptodon cayanensis 80 Leptopogon superciliaris 131 Leptotila cassinnii 83 rufaxilla 165 Lesbia sp. 190-3 nuna 47 victoriae 47, 193-4 leucocephalus, Cinclus 48 Leucochloris albicollis 197 leucogaster, Amazilia 197 , Pionites 166 leucophaius, Legatus 169 leucophrys, Mecocerculus 48 , Myrmoborus 168 leucopogon, Drymoica 221 , Schistolais 219 leucoptera, Psophia 162, 165 Leucopternis albicollis 165 kuhli 165 schistacea 165 leucopterus, Nyctibius 166 leucopyga, Nyctiprogne 125 leucosticta, Henicorhina 48 leucostigma, Percnostola 168 leucotis, Vireolanius 171 leucurum, Cinclidium 27 leucurus, Threnetes 166 leverianus, Trogon 41—2 leveriana, Cissopis 126, 161, 170 Limnothlypis swainsonii 88 XXil lineata, Dacnis 133, 170 Malacoptila rufa 167 lineatum, Tigrisoma 164 — semicincta 167 lineatus, Cymbilaimus 168 malacoptilus malacoptilus, Rimator 21 — ,Dryocopus 162, 167 Malcorus pectoralis 218-19 lineola, Sporophila 162, 170 Manacus manacus 118 linteatus, Heterocercus 169 manilata, Ara 165 Lipaugus cryptolophus 172 manipurensis, Aegithalos concinnus 27 — subalaris 172 — ,Alcippe 25-6 — vociferans 170 — _, Alcippe cinereiceps 26 littoralis, Caldris alpina 140 manu, Cercomacra 128 — , Tringa 140 mariae, Urolais 221 livia, Columba 83 margaritatus, Megastictus 168 livingstoni, Garrulax caerulatus 24 Margarornis brunnescens 118 Locustella certhiola 150 marginatus, Microcerculus 94, 170 — fluviatilis 150 marti, Baryphthengus 167 longicauda, Deconychura 168 mauri, Calidris 82 — , Vidua 96 maxima, Sterna 83 longipennis, Myrmotherula 168 maximiliani, Pionus 40 longirostris, Caprimulgus 47 maximus, Saltator 88 — , Nasica 168 Mecocerculus leucophrys 48 Lophornis helenae 84 — stictopterus 48 lophotes, Percnostola 130 megacephala, Ramphotrigon 169 Lophotriccus eulophotes 93 Megalaimatinae 225 — galeatus 169 Megalaiminae 225 Loriculus philippensis 104—9 megalopterus, Phalcobaenus 8 — — apicalis 108-9 Megastictus margaritatus 168 — — bournsi 106-8 melambrotus, Cathartes 164 — — chrysonotus 105-9 melancholicus, Tyrannus 168 — — panayensis 106-7, 109 Melanepes cruentatus 162, 167 — — regulus 106—9 melanocephalus, Myioborus 48 — — siquijorensis 105 melanoceps, Myrmeciza 15 — — worcesteri 105, 109 melanogaster, Piaya 93, 166 lotenia, Nectarinia 174 melanoleuca, Lamprospiza 161, 170 luciani, Eriocnemis 47 — , Tringa 82 ludlowi, Alcippe 25-6 melanoleucus, Spizastur 82, 165 Lurocalis semitorquatus 120, 125 melanopezus, Automolus 129 — — natterer1 125 melanophaius, Laterallus 123 — — rufiventris 125 Melanoptila glabrirostris 86 luteiventris, Tyrannopsis 169 melanosticta, Rhegmatorhina 168 Melanotrochilus fuscus 197 macao, Ara 165 melanura, Apalis 229, 233-4 Machaeropterus regulus 169 — __, Cisticola 228-36 macrodactylus, Bucco 167 — _,Dryodromas 229 macrorhynchus, Notharchus 167 melanurus, Ramphocaenus 170 macrotarsa, Sterna nilotica 215-6 — , Trogon 166 macroura, Drymoica 101 melba, Pytilia 96, 98—9 — ,Zenaida 83 melleri, Anas 225-8 macularius, Hylopezus 168 mellisugus, Chlorostilbon 166 maculatus, Myiodynastes 169 mellivora, Florisuga 166 maculirostris, Selenidera 127 menetriesii, Myrmotherula 91, 130, 168 maculosa, Prinia 101, 103, 218-19 menstruus, Pionus 125, 166 madeira, Pterodroma 183-6 mentalis, Dysithamnus 47 magellanicus simonsi, Scytalopus 8 Merops orientalis 173 major castaneus, Xiphocolaptes 147—9 — pusillus 173 — _, Crotophaga 166 merula, Dendrocincla 167 major estebani, Xiphocolaptes subsp. Mesembrinibis cayennensis 164 nov. 147-9 Metallura baroni 47 — , Halcyon coromanda 50 — tyrianthina 47 — major, Xiphocolaptes 147-9 — williami 47 — remoratus, Xiphocolaptes 147-9 mexicana boliviana, Tangara 170 — ,Schiffornis 91 mexicanus, Sclerurus 168 — , Tinamus 164 Micrastur gilvicollis 165 — , Xiphocolaptes 147-9 — mirandollei 165 Micrastur ruficollis 165 Microcerculus bambla 94 — marginatus 94, 170 Micromonacha lanceolata 160, 167 Micropygia schomburgku 123 microrhynchum, Rhamphomicron 47, 193-4 milleri, Xenops 120, 128, 168 miniatus, Myioborus 48 minimus, Catharus 161, 170 minor, Batis 53 — _,Chordeiles 166 , Hemitriccus 134, 169 — ,Platypsaris 170 minuta, Euphonia 170 — ,Piaya 166 minutilla, Calidris 82 minutissimum, Glaucidium 84, 166 minutissimus, Picumnus 91 minutus, Xenops 47, 168 Mionectes spp. 133 — oleaginea 169 — olivaceus 48, 120, 133 mirandollei, Micrastur 165 mitrata, Aratinga 8 mitu, Crax 162, 165 modesta, Asthenes 7 molleri, Prinia 219 mollis, Pterodroma 183—5 — mollis, Pterodroma 184 Monasa morphoeus 167 — nigrifrons 167 mongalla, Cisticola ruficeps 59-63, 66 montana, Geotrygon 165 montanus, Passer 44-5 Morphnus guianensis 81, 165 morphoeus, Monasa 167 moschata, Cairina 164 motmot, Ortalis 162, 165 muelleri, Cisticola fulvicapilla 232 mulsant, Acestrura 47 murina, Notiochelidon 48 murinus, Thamnophilus 168 Muscicapa 145 — _ sethsmithi 146 Muscisaxicola albifrons 8 musculus, Troglodytes aedon 86 mycteria, Jabiru 80 Myiarchus ferox 169 Myiobius atricaudus 169 — villosus 48 Myioborus melanocephalus 48 — miniatus 48 Myiodynastes maculatus 169 Myiopagis caniceps 169 — _ gaimardii 169 Myiornis spp. 133 Myiotriccus ornatus 48 Myiozetetes cayanensis 33—5 myotherinus, Myrmoborus 168 Myrmeciza 11—17 — _berlepschi 11-18 — exsul 12-13,15 XXIV — fortis 15, 130, 168 — goeldii 130 — hemimelaena 168 — hyperythra 168 — immaculata 15 — laemosticta 11-17 — — bolivari 11-18 — — laemosticta 18 — — nigricauda 11-17 — — palliata 11-18 — — venezuelae 11-18 — melanoceps 15 — nigricauda 11-18 Myrmoborus leucophrys 168 — myotherinus 168 Myrmotherula assimilis 91, 130 — axillaris 91, 130, 168 — brachyura 168 — haematonota 168 — hauxwelli 168 — itheringi 129 — longipennis 168 — menetriesii 91, 130, 168 — obscura 168 — sclateri 129 myrtae, Puffinus assimilis 71 Myzornis pyrrhoura 25 mzimbaensis, Anthus caffer 36 nacunda, Podager 40, 166 naevia, Hylophylax 48, 168 — ,Sclateria 168 namdapha, Pomatorhinus ferruginosus 20 Nannopsittaca sp. nov. 120, 124 Nasica longirostris 168 nativitatis, Pufinus 72—5 nattereri, Lurocalis semitorquatus 125 — , Nonnula ruficapilla 187-8 Nectarinia dussumieri 150, 174 — lotenia 174 neglecta, Pterodroma 71, 74-6 nehrkorni, Cyanolesbia 190 — _, Neolesbia 190-8 Nemosia pileata 170 Neochelidon tibialis 136, 161, 170 Neolesbia nehrkorni 190-8 Neomorphus pucheranii 166 Nesofregetta fuliginosa 73—5 niger punctatus, Capito 167 nigra, Ciconia 209-14 — _,Rynchops 165 nigrescens, Cercomacra 168 nigricans, Rallus 122 nigricauda, Cercomacra 13 — ,Myrmeciza 11-18 — ,Myrmeciza laemosticta 11—17 — ,Sipia 11-17 nigriceps, Veniliornis 47 nigricollis, Anthracothorax 166 — , Busarellus 165 — , Phoenicircus 169 nigrifrons, Monasa 167 nigripennis, Pterodroma 71—6 nigrirostris, Andigena 224 nigrocristatus, Basileuterus 48 nigrofasciata, Thalurania furcata 193-4 nigrogularis, Ramphocelus 94, 126, 137 nilotica affinis, Sterna 215—16 macrotarsa, Sterna 215-16 nitidus, Buteo 165 , Cyanerpes 170 nobilis, Chamaeza 131, 168 Nonnula frontalis 187 ruficapilla 167, 187 Nonnula ruficapilla inundata subsp. nov. 187-8 nattereri 187-8 ruficapilla 187-8 rufipectus 187 notatus, Chlorestes 197 Notharchus macrorhynchus 167 ordi 160, 167 Notiochelidon murina 48 nuna, Lesbia 47 Nyctibius grandis 166 griseus 84 leucopterus 166 Nyctidromus albicollis 40, 166 Nyctiprogne leucopyga 125 Nystalus 160, 167 striolatus 160 obscura, Myrmotherula 168 obsoletum, Camptostoma 169 obtusa, Vidua 97—9 occidentalis, Pelecanus 80 occipitalis, Coryllis 106—9 Oceanodroma castro 185 ocellatus, Xiphorhynchus 167 ochraceiceps, Hylophilus 171 Ochthoeca frontalis 48 furmicolor 48 fumigatus 8 oenanthoides 7, 9 rufipectoralis 7, 48 Odontophorus gujanensis 165 stellatus 165 oenanthoides, Ochthoeca 7, 9 oenone, Chrysuronia 193, 197 oglei, Stachyris 24 oleaginea, Mionectes 169 olivacea, Piranga 88 olivaceus, Mionectes 48, 120, 133 , Phalacrocorax 164 , Rhynchocylus 169 , Vireo 171 Onychorhynchus coronatus 40, 169 ophthalmicus, Chlorospingus 131 Opisthocomus hoazin 165 ordii, Notharchus 160, 166 Oreomanes fraseri 7-9 Oreophilais gen. nov. 217-21 Oreophilais robertsi sp. nov. 217-21 oreophilus, Buteo 53-4 orientale, Cinclidium frontale 26 orientalis, Merops 173 XXV , Vidua paradisaea 96—7 ornata, Thlypopsis 48 ornatus, Cephalopterus 93, 127, 169 , Myiotriccus 48 , Spizaetus 165 Ornithion inerme 132 Ortalis motmot 162, 165 oryzivorus, Dolichonyx 151 Oryzoborus angolensis 40, 162, 170 oseryi, Psarocolius 120, 137 Otus watsonii 166 Oxyruncus cristatus 120, 131 Oxyura dominica 164 Pachyramphus castaneus 169 pacifica, Calidris alpina 140-4 palliata, Myrmeciza laemosticta 11—18 palmarum, Thraupis 170 palustris, Cistothorus 151 panayensis, Loriculus philippensis 106—7, 109 Pandion haliaetus 80 Panyptila cayennensis 126, 166 papa, Sarcoramphus 164 paradisaea, Sterna 120, 124 , Vidua 96-9 aucupum, Vidua 96-8 orientalis, Vidua 96—7 paradisaea, Vidua 96-7 pardalotus, Xiphorhynchus 167 pareola regina, Chiroxiphia 169 parina, Xenodacnis 5, 7, 10 Parisoma 219 Paroaria gularis 170 Parula americana 87 parulus, Anairetes 48 parva, Conopias 169 , Ficedula 220 parvirostris, Elaenia 169 Passer domesticus 44-5 montanus 44-5 simplex 237 passerinus, Veniliornis 167 Patagona gigas 6 pavoninus, Pharomachrus 166 pearson, Cisticola 228-35 , Dryodromas 229 pectoralis, Malcorus 218-19 Pelecanus occidentalis 80 pelingensis, Halcyon coromanda 51 Penelope jacquacu 162, 165 penicillata, Eucometis 170 Percnostola leucostigma 168 lophotes 130 schistacea 168 peregrinus japonensis, Falco 20 Pericrocotus divaricatus 151 perrotii, Hylexetastes 167 personatus, Trogon 47 perspicillata, Pulsatrix 84, 166 perstriata, Alcippe vinipectus 25—6 peruviana, Conopophaga 120, 131 petrophila, Euryptila subcinnamomea 104 Phacellodomus ruber 127 Phaeoprogne tapera 170 Phaethon rubricauda 73-4 Phaethornis guy 47 — philippii 166 — ruber 166 — superciliosus 47, 166 Phalacrocorax olivaceus 164 Phalaropus tricolor 82 Phalcobaenus megalopterus 8 Pharomachrus pavoninus 166 Pheucticus chrysopeplus 48 philippensis, Loriculus 104—9 — _ apicalis, Loriculus 108—9 — _bournis, Loriculus 106—9 chrysonotus, Loriculus 105—9 panayensis, Loriculus 106-7, 109 regulus, Loriculus 106—9 siquyorensis, Loriculus 105 worcesteri, Loriculus 105, 109 philippii, Phaethornis 166 Philydor erythrocercus 168 — erythropterus 168 — ruficaudatus 168 — rufus 127, 131 Phlegopsis erythroptera 168 Phlogophilus hemileucurus 47 Phoenicircus nigricollis 169 phoenicoptera, Pytilia 95—9 Phragmacia 101, 217-18 — _ substriata 217-221 Phrygilus sp. 7-8 — unicolor 6-8 Phyllomyias burmeisteri 132 — fasciatus 131 Phylloscartes sp. nov. 120, 133 Phylloscopus 219 — borealis 151 — trochilus 150-1 Piaya cayana 93, 166 — melanogaster 93, 166 — miunuta 166 picta, Pyrrhura 166 Piculus chrysochloros 167 — flavigula 167 Picumnus aurifrons 91 —= \= | borbae!91 — castelnau 91 — cirratus 91 — dorbygnianus 91 — exilis91 — fuscus 91-2 — lafresnayi 167 — minutissimus 91 — rufiventris 47 — _ steindachneri 91 — temmincki 91 picumnus, Dendrocolaptes 167 picus, Xiphorhynchus 91, 167 pileata, Nemosia 170 pileatus, Pilherodius 164 Pilherodius pileatus 164 Pionites leucogaster 166 XXV1 Pionopsitta barrabandi 125, 166 Pionus maximiliani 40 — menstruus 125, 166 pipile, Aburria 165 Pipra chloromeros 133 — coronata 133 — — caelestipileata 169 — pipra 48, 169 — rubrocapilla 169 Piprites chloris 169 Piranga olivacea 88 — rubra170 Pitangus sulphuratus 168 Pithys albifrons 48 Pitylus 40 platensis, Cistothorus 48, 150 Platypsaris minor 170 platypterus, Buteo 165 platyrhynchos, Platyrinchus 169 platyrhynchum, Electron 167 Platyrinchus coronatus 169 — platyrhynchos 169 Plectropterus gambensis 210 plumbea, Columba 165 — ,Ictinia 165 — __, Polioptila 170 Podager nacunda 40, 166 poecilocercus, Knipolegus 169 poecilochrous, Buteo 199-209 poecilonota, Hylophylax 168 Poecilurus candei 118 poliocephala, Geothlypis 88 poliocephalus, Tolmomyias 169 polionotus, Arremon flavirostris 153—5 Polioptila guianensis 160, 170 — _ plumbea 170 Polioxolmis rufipennis 8—9 polyosoma, Buteo 199-209 — exsul, Buteo 199 Polyplancta aurescens 166 polytmus, Trochilus 197 Pomatorhinus ferruginosus namdapha 20 Poospiza alticola 10 Popelaira langsdorfi 166 prasinus dimidiatus, Aulacorhynchus 127 Premnoplex brunnescens 118-19 Prinia spp. 101-2, 217-21 — familiaris 101, 218, 220 — flavicans 218-19 — fluviatilis 219 — gracilis lepida 101 — hypoxantha 218-19 — leontica 219, 221 — lepida 101 — maculosa 101, 103, 218-19 — molleri 219 — robertsi 101, 217-21 — somalica 101, 218-19 — subflava 217-19 — substriata 101-4, 217 Prinia substriata confinis subsp. nov. 103-4 — — substriata 102-3 procurvoides, Campylorhamphus 167 Procelsterna cerulea 73—4 promeropirhynchus, Xiphocolaptes 167 protractus, Capitonides 223-4 Psarocolius angustifrons 137, 171 — _ bifasciatus 137 — decumanus 137 — oseryi 120, 137 — viridis 171 Pseudocolaptes boissonneautii +7 Psophia leucoptera 162, 165 Pterodroma cahow 183-5 — feae 183-5 — hasitata 184 — madeira 183-6 — mollis 183-5 — — mollis 184 — neglecta 71, 74-6 — nigripennis 71—6 — ultima71-5 Pteroglossus aracari 167 — beauharnaesii 167 — flavirostris 167 — inscriptus 167 — torquatus sanguineus 16 Pterophanes cyanopterus 6—9, 47 pucheranii, Neomorphus 166 puella, Trogon 42-3 Puffinus assimilis 72, 74-5 =a ninyntaer/il — nativitatis 72, 74-5 pulcher, Spreo 237 pulchra, Apalis 219-20 Pulsatrix perspicillata 84, 166 punctata, Tangara 131 punctatus, Capito niger 167 — ,Thamnophilus 85 punicea, Xipholena 169 purpurata, Querula 169 — , Touit 166 pusillus, Merops 173 Pygiptila stellaris 91 pyra, Topaza 160, 166 Pyrocephalus rubinus 169 pyrrhonota, Hirundo 86 pytrhoura, Myzornis 25 Pyrrhura picta 166 — rhodogaster 124 Pytilia hypogrammica 96, 99 — melba 96, 98-9 — phoenicoptera 95-9 Querula purpurata 169 Rallus nigricans 122 ramonianus, Trogon 43 Ramphastos brevis 16 — tucanus cuvieri 167 — vitellinus 167 Ramphocaenus melanurus 170 Ramphocelus carbo 137, 162, 170 — nigrogularis 94, 126, 137 Ramphotrigon fuscicauda 129 XXVI1I — megacephala 169 — ruficauda 169 regalis, Heliangelus 194-8 regina, Chiroxiphia pareola 169 regulus, Loriculus philippensis 106—9 — _ , Machaeropterus 169 reinwardtii, Selenidera 127, 167 remoratus, Xiphocolates major 147—9 remota, Aphelocoma coerulescens 32 reptatus, Spelaeornis chocolatinus 21 Rhamphomicron microrhynchum 47, 193-4 Rhegmatorhina berlepschi 168 — melanosticta 168 rhodogaster, Pyrrhura 124 Rhynchocyclus olivaceus 169 Rhytipterna simplex 169 richardsoni, Eubucco 167 rikeri, Berlepschia 128 Rimator malacoptilus malacoptilus 21 Riparia riparia 86, 161, 170 roberti, Sphenocichla humei 24 robertsi, Oreophilais sp. nov. 217—20 — ,Prinia 101, 217-21 rocki, Spelaeornis troglodytoides 21—4 rosenbergi, Cercomacra 13 — ,Sipial1 Rostrhamus sociabilis 81 ruber, Phacellodomus 127 — _, Phaethornis 160 rubica, Habia 170 rubiginosus, Automolus 129 rubinus, Pyrocephalus 169 rubra, Piranga 170 rubricapillus, Aegithalos concinnus 27 rubricauda, Phaethon 73—4 rubricollis, Campephilus 167 rubrocapilla, Pipra 169 rubrocristatus, Ampelion 48 rufa, Halcyon 50 — _, Halcyon coromanda 49-51 — _, Malacoptila 167 rufaxilla, Leptotila 165 ruficapilla, Alcippe 25 ruficapilla inundata, Nonnula subsp. nov. 187-8 — nattereri, Nonnula 187-8 — ,Nonnula 167, 187 — ruficapilla, Nonnula 187 — rufipectus, Nonnula 187 — , Vermivora 87 ruficauda, Ramphotrigon 169 ruficaudatus, Philydor 168 ruficeps, Cisticola 56-69 — guinea, Cisticola 59-69 — mongalla, Cisticola 59-63, 66 — ruficeps, Cisticola 63, 66 — _ scotoptera, Cisticola 60—3 ruficollis, Micrastur 165 — ,Stelgidopteryx 170 rufifrons, Basileuterus 88 rufigularis, Falco 165 rufimarginatus, Herpsilochmus 160-8 rufinucha, Atlapetes 48 rufipectoralis, Ochthoeca 7, 48 rufipectus, Nonnula ruficapilla 187 rufipennis, Polioxolmis 8—9 rufipileatus, Automolus 128, 168 rufiventris, Euphonia 170 — , Lurocalis semitorquatus 125 — , Picumnus 47 rufofuscus, Buteo 53-4 rufula, Grallaria 48 rufus, Philydor 127, 131 — , Trogon 166 rupestris, Chordeiles 125 rupicola, Colaptes 7-8 rutila, Emberiza 27 rutilans, Xenops 129, 168 Rynchops nigra 165 sakhalina, Calidris alpina 140-4 sallaei, Trogon 41-3 Saltator maximus 88 salvini, Diomedea cauta 189 — ,Gymnopithys 168 sanctaemariae, Cymbilaimus 128 sanguineus, Pteroglossus torquatus 16 Sarcoramphus papa 164 saturninus, Thamnomanes 168 savana, Tyrannus 169 Sayornis 119 Schiffornis major 91 — turdinus 48, 169 schistacea, Leucopternis 165 — ,Percnostola 168 schistaceus, Thamnophilus 47, 168 schistogynus, Thamnomanes 129 Schistolais leonitica 219, 221 — leucopogon 219 schomburgkii, Micropygia 123 schranku, Tangara 170 Sclateria naevia 168 sclateri, Cacicus 94 — ,Myrmotherula 129 Sclerurus caudacutus 168 — mexicanus 168 scotoptera, Cisticola ruficeps 60-3 scutulata, Cairina 19 Scytalopus 7 — latebricola 48 — magellanicus simonsi 8 — _unicolor 48 sechellensis, Acrocephalus 150 Selenidera maculirostris 127 — reinwardtii 127, 167 semicincta, Malacoptila 167 semitorquatus, Lurocalis 120, 125 — nattereri, Lurocalis 125 — rufiventris, Lurocalis 125 Semnorninae 225 Semnornithinae 225 senegalensis, Ephippiorhynchus 210 seridoenis, Streptoprocne biscutata subsp. nov. 39-40 serva, Cercomacra 47 sethsmithi, Muscicapa 146 XXVIII severa, Ara 165 sherrifh, Spelaeornis troglodytoides 21-4 sibilator, Sirystes 169 Sicalis 8 signatus, Knipolegus 134 simonsi, Scytalopus magellanicus 8 Simoxenops ucayalae 93, 128 simplex, Passer 237-8 — ,Rhytipterna 169 siparaja, Aethopyga 174 Sipia 13 — berlepschi 11-17 — nigricauda 11-17 — rosenbergi 11—17 siquyorensis, Loriculus philippensis 105 Sirystes sibilator 169 Sittasomus griseicapillus 91, 168 sittoides, Diglossa 48 sociabilis, Rostrhamus 81 sokokensis, Anthus 36 solitaria, Tringa 162, 165 solitarius, Cacicus 94 — , Harpyhaliaetus 81, 122 solstitialis, Troglodytes 48 somalica, Prinia 101, 218-19 soul, Crypturellus 164 souleyetii, Lepidocolaptes 85 souliei, Spelaeornis troglodytoides 214 spadiceus, Attila 169 speculigera, Conothraupis 120-37 Spelaeornis chocolatinus chocolatinus 21 — — §reptatus 21 — troglodytoides 21—4 Spelaeornis troglodytoides indiraji subsp. nov. 21-4 — — rocki 21-4 — —_ sherrifh 21-4 — — souliei 21-4 Sphenocichla humei roberti 24 spinicauda, Chaetura 166 spirurus, Glyphorhynchus 47, 168 spiza, Chlorophanes 133, 170 Spizaetus ornatus 165 Spizastur melanoleucus 82, 165 spodiops, Hemitriccus 134 spodioptila, Terenura 168 Sporophila bouvronides 162, 170 — lineola 162,170 Spreo pulcher 237 squamatus, Garrulax 24 Stachyris oglei 24 stanleyi, Chalcostigma 5, 8—9 steindachneri, Picumnus 91 Stelgidopteryx ruficollis 170 stellaris, Pygiptila 91 stellatus, Odontophorus 165 Sterna fuscata 71 — maxima 83 — nilotica affinis 215-16 — — macrotarsa 215-16 — paradisaea 120, 124 stictolaema, Deconychura 168 stictopterus, Mecocerculus 48 stolidus, Anous 74 stolzmanni, Tyranneutes 169 Streptoprocne biscutata 38-40 biscutata 39-40 Streptoprocne biscutata seridoenis subsp. nov. 39-40 — zonaris 38—9, 84, 166 striaticollis, Alcippe 25 — ,Anabacerthia 131 striatus, Accipiter 81 — , Butorides 164 — chionogaster, Accipiter 81 strigilatus, Ancistrops 168 — , Trogon 41 strigulosus, Crypturellus 121 striolatus, Nystalus 160 subalaris, Lipaugus 172 subbrunneus, Cnipodectes 169 subcinnamomea, Euryptila 104 — _ petrophila, Euryptila 104 subflava, Prinia 217-19 substriata, Drymoica 101-2, 218, 221 — ,Phragmacia 217-21 — _, Prinia 101-4, 217 substriata confinis, Prinia subsp. nov. 103-4 — _ _ substriata, Prinia 102 subulatus, Hyloctistes 168 subvinacea, Columba 165 sueurii, Lalage 150 Sula spp. 71 sulana, Halcyon coromanda 50-1 sulphurescens, Tolmomyias 169 sumichrasti, Aphelocoma coerulescens 32 superciliaris forresti, Xiphirhynchus 20 — ,Hemispingus 48 — indextus, Xiphirhynchus 20 — _ ,Leptopogon 131 superciliosus, Accipiter 122, 165 — _, Phaethornis 47, 166 surinamus, Tachyphonus 170 surrucura, Trogon 41 swainsonii, Limnothlypis 88 Sylvia 219 — curruca 237 sylvia, Todirostrum 85 Synallaxis azarae 47 — candei 118-19 — erythrothorax 85 — gularis 47 Tachycineta albiventer 170 — bicolor 86 Tachyphonus cristatus 170 — surinamus 170 taciturnus taciturnus, Arremon 155 taeniata, Dubusia 48 talifuensis, Aegithalos concinnus 27 talpacoti, Columbina 162, 165 tamatia, Bucco 167 Tangara spp. 137 — callophrys 137 — chilensis 94, 137, 162 XXIX chilensis 170 — cyanotis 131 — gyrola 131 — mexicana boliviana 170 — punctata 131 —_ schrankii 170 — _ vassorii 48 — velia 137,170 tao, Tinamus 163-4 tapera, Phaeoprogne 170 temmincki, Picumnus 91 tenebrosa, Chelidoptera 167 tenuirostris, Xenops 91 Terenotriccus erythrurus 169 Terenura humeralis 130 — _ spodioptila 168 Tersina viridis 162, 171 Thalurania sp. 190—5 — colombica 193-7 — furcata 47, 166, 193-7 nigrofasciata 193-5 — glaucopis 197 ‘Thamnomanes caesius 168 — _ saturninus 168 — schistogynus 129 Thamnophilus aethiops 168 — amazonicus 168 — aroyae 129 — cachabiensis 13 — murinus 168 — punctatus 85 — _ schistaceus 47, 168 Thlypopsis ornata 48 thoracicus, Cyphorhinus 120, 136 Thraupis episcopus 88, 170 — palmarum 170 Threnetes leucurus 166 Thripadectes flammulatus 47 — virgaticeps 118-19 Thryothorus genibarbis 137, 170 thula, Egretta 164 tibialis, Neochelidon 136, 161, 170 tigrina, Dendroica 87 tigrinus, Lanius 151 Tigrisoma lineatum 164 ‘Tinamus guttatus 164 — major 164 — taol63 tinnunculus, Falco 54 titan, Fregetta grallaria 71 Tityra cayana 170 Todirostrum chrysocrotaphum 169 — sylvia 85 togoensis, Vidua 97—9 Tolmomyias assimilis 169 — poliocephalus 169 — sulphurescens 169 tombacea, Galbula 167 Topaza pyra 160, 166 torquata, Ceryle 166 — ,Chauna 92 — ,Corythopis 48, 169 torquatus, Atlapetes 48 torquatus, Celeus 167 — sanguineus, Pteroglossus 16 Touit huetii 124 — purpurata 166 Trachyphonus sp. 223-4 trailii, Empidonax 85 traylori, Anthus cafter 37 tricolor, Alectrurus 134-5 — _, Phalaropus 82 Tringa flavipes 82 — littoralis 140 — melanoleuca 82 — solitaria 162, 165 tristis, Acridotheres 20 trochilus, Phylloscopus 150-1 Trochilus polytmus 197 Troglodytes aedon 7 musculus 86 — solstitialis 48 troglodytoides indiraji, Spelaeornis subsp. nov. 21-4 — rocki, Spelaeornis 21—4 — sherrifh, Spelaeornis 21—4 — souliei, Spelaeornis 21—4 ‘Trogon aurantiiventris 42—3 — braccatus 42 — caligatus 42-3 — collaris 42 — curucui 166 — leverianus 41—2 — melanurus 166 — personatus 47 — puella 42-3 — ramonianus 43 — rufus 166 — _ sallaei 41-3 — strigilatus 41 — surrucura 41 — violaceus 42, 166 — viridis 41—2, 166 — xalapensis 42 tucanus cuvierl, Ramphastos 167 tucinkae, Eubucco 120, 126 turdinus, Campylorhynchus 126, 170 — ,Schiffornis, 48, 169 Turdoides spp. 217 Turdus albicollis 48, 170 — chiguanco 7 — fuscater 48 — lawrencii 136 Tyranneutes stolzmanni 169 Tyranniscus viridiflavus 48 Tyrannopsis luteiventris 169 Tyrannulus elatus 169 ‘Tyrannus melancholicus 168 — savana 169 — tyrannus 169 tyrianthina, Metallura 47 ucayalae, Simoxenops 93, 128 ultima, Pterodroma 71, 74-5 ultramarina, Aphelocoma 31—2 undulatus, Crypturellus 164 XXX unduligera, Frederickena 120, 129 uncinatus, Chondrohierax 165 unicolor, Aphelocoma 31—2 — guerrerensis, Aphelocoma 31 — ,Phrygilus 6, 8 — Scytalopus 48 Uraeginthus angolensis 234 Urolais epichlora 219, 221 — mariae 221 urubitinga, Buteogallus 165 varia, Grallaria 168 variegatus, Crypturellus 121, 164 varius, Empidonomus 169 vassoril, Tangara 48 velia, Tangara 137, 170 venezuelae, Myrmeciza laemosticta 11-18 Veniliornis affinis 167 — nigriceps 47 — _ passerinus 167 Vermivora celata 87 — _ ruficapilla 87 — virginiae 87 versicolor, Amazilia 166 — _, Lanio 170 versicolorus, Brotogeris 166 vestitus, Eriocnemis 47 victoriae, Lesbia 47, 193-4 Vidua chalybeata 99 — interjecta 95-9 — longicauda 96 — obtusa 97-9 — paradisaea 96—9 aucupum 96-8 orientalis 96—7 paradisaea 96—9 — togoensis 97-9 viduata, Dendrocygna 65 villosus, Myiobius 48 vinacea, Amazona 40 vinipectus, Alcippe 25 — bieti, Alcippe 25 — _ perstriata, Alcippe 25 viola, Heliangelus 47 violaceus, Cyanocorax 136, 171 — , Trogon 42, 166 virens, Contopus 169 Vireo gilvus 86 — olivaceus 171 Vireolanius leucotis 171 virgaticeps, Thripadectes 118-19 virginiae, Vermivora 87 viridiflavus, Tyranniscus 48 viridis, Laterallus 123 — ,Psarocolius 171 — ,Tersina 162,171 — , Trogon 41-2, 166 vitellinus, Ramphastos 167 vociferans, Lipaugus 170 watsonii, Otus 166 williami, Metallura 47 Wilsonia canadensis 88 worcesteri, Loriculus philippensis 105, 109 xalapensis, Trogon 42 xanthogaster, Euphonia 48 Xenodacnis parina 5, 7, 10 Xenops milleri 120, 128, 168 — munutus 47, 168 — rutilans 129, 168 — tenuirostris 91 xenothorax, Leptasthenura 7—9 Xiphirhynchus superciliaris forresti 20 intextus 20 Xiphocolaptes major 147—9 castaneus 147-9 Xiphocolaptes major estebani subsp. nov. 147-9 major 147-9 remoratus 147—9 — promeropirhynchus 167 XXX1 Xipholena punicea 169 Xiphorhynchus guttatus 167 — ocellatus 167 — _ pardalotus 167 — picus 91, 167 yanacensis, Leptasthenura 8, 10 yetapa, Gubernetes 135 Zenaida auriculata 38 — macroura 83 Zimmerius gracilipes 169 zonaris, Chaetura 38 — ,Streptoprocne 38-9, 84, 166 zonatus, Campylorhynchus 86 Zonotrichia capensis 7, 48, 151 zosterops, Hemitriccus 169 CORRECTIONS TO TEXT Page 6, line 32: Pterophanes cyanopterus not P. cyanoptera Page 8, line 4: Pterophanes cyanopterus not P. cyanoptera Page 9, line 8: Pterophanes cyanopterus not P. cyanoptera Page 7, line 27: Carduelis atrata not Carduelis atratus Page 8, line 24: Carduelis atrata not Carduelis atratus Page 8, line 8: andecolus not andicolus Page 12, line 5: M. nigricauda not M. nigicauda Page 47, line 48: Glyphorhynchus not Glyphorynchus Page 54, line 19: Corythaixoides not Corythaixtoides Page 80, line 24: burrovianus not burroviannus Page 121, line 43: strigulosus not strigilosus Page 135, line 29: caudacuta not caudata Page 140, lines 30 & 31: littoralis not litoralis Printed in Great Britain by Henry Ling Ltd., at the Dorset Press, Dorchester, Dorset L st ISSN 0007-1595 yFrds Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’ Club Edited by 3 DrD.W. SNOW. ; Volume112 No.1 March GO2 FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Tuesday, 7 April 1992. We are happy to welcome Dr Carlo Violani, of the Universita di Pavia, again. Dr Violani spoke to the Club on the birds of Sardinia in 1987 and his subject this time is the 18th century naturalist “‘Giovanni Antonio Scopoli and his influence on Italian Ornithology”’. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 24 March 1992*. Tuesday, 19 May 1992. Dr Michel Louette of the Musée Royal de 1 Afrique Centrale, Tervuren, Belgium, is an expert systematist and taxo- nomist involved in tropical African birds, especially of Zaire and Cameroon. He will be speaking on “‘The Birds of the Comoro Islands”’. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 5 May 1992*. Tuesday, 9 June 1992. Brian Meadows will speak on “The birds of Central Hejaz, Western Arabia’’. He is concerned with water and environmental management, particularly in Kenya and Saudi Arabia where he has worked for over 15 years. He has also served on the Governing Council of the UN Environmental Programme. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 26 May 1992*. Tuesday, 14 July 1992. Dr Storrs L. Olson, Curator in the Division of Birds at the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, since 1975, has an international reputation for his research in avian palaeontology. He will speak on “‘Prehistoric Birdlife of the Hawaiian Islands”’. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 1 Fuly 1992*. Tuesday, 28 July 1992. Dr Angela Turner, “The Hirundines: a most entertaining tribe of Birds”’. Tuesday, 15 September 1992. Dr W. and Dr U. Thiede, ee Britain of the East?”’. Meetings are held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 at 6.15 pm. for 7 pm. A plan showing Imperial College will be sent to members on request. *Late acceptances and cancellations can usually be taken up to the Thursday morning preceding a meeting, although members are asked to accept by 14 days beforehand as arrangements for meetings have to be confirmed with Imperial College well in advance. If you accept and subsequently find you are unable to attend please notify the Hon. Secretary, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 67B (tel. 0572 722788) as soon as possible as the booking can often be offered to another member. 1 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Bulletin of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 112 No. 1 Published: 20 March 1992 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE FOR 1991 Meetings. Nine evening meetings of the Club were held in 1991, in the Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London. A total of 436 members and guests attended. Facilities for speakers were enhanced by the pro- vision of asound amplification system in part purchased by the Club and generously set up by P. J. Sellar. During the year speakers included Dr John Croxall, Professor C. Hilary Fry, who was making a brief visit to Britain from Oman, and the Chairman, Ronald Peal, who spoke at a well attended meeting in November. At the evening meeting following the AGM on 21 May the Chairman continued the practice, revived in 1990, of presenting the Chairman’s Report. His subject this year was F. J. S. Barrington and Herbert Stevens, Benefactors of the Club. This was of particular relevance in 1991 as the house at Tring which Herbert Stevens bequeathed to the Club was vacated, and together with its garden, for which the Club had obtained outline planning consent for development, was placed on the market. It is intended that a Herbert Stevens Fund should be set up with the proceeds of the sale. The augmented funds which would then be available to the Club from the income generated by the Fund would enable projects to be undertaken in pursuance of the objects of the Club. It is hoped to place the scheme for the setting up of the new Fund before members at the AGM in 1992 for approval. Committee. Because of the increased business concerned with the disposal of ‘Clovelly’ the Committee met 8 times during 1991. The attendance of members averaged 79%. Preparations are in hand for the publication of a book to mark the Centenary of the Club, which falls on 5 October 1992. This will take the form of annotated extracts from the Bulletin since it was first published. It is edited by Dr David Snow and is to be published by Helm Information Limited. Work has continued on the special additional issue of the Bulle- tin, edited by Dr J. F. Monk, and some 24 authors, specialists in various fields, have agreed to contribute papers. Preliminary arrangements are being made for a dinner to celebrate the Centenary during October or November 1992. In response to requests from members a Club tie has been designed and is now available for sale. Membership recruitment was continued by the enclosure of the Club’s leaflet in [bis 133(3), 1991 and in Malimbus 13(1), 1991. New members of Report of the Committee for 1991 2 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) the Union are contacted after their election. This brought an increase in new members to 43 in 1991. Deaths. It is with deep regret that the Committee reports the deaths of Major N. A. G. Beal (Member 1947-1951 & 1979-1991), Major I. R. Grimwood O.B.E. (Member 1956-1991), M. Mayard (Member 1929-1991), Dr A. Prigogine (Member 1957-1991), Professor Ernst Schuz (Member 1954-1991) and Professor Helmut Sick (Member 1980-1991). Membership. The recruitment of 43 new members brought an in- crease in paid-up membership to 623 at December 1991. There were 391 members with U.K. addresses and 232 members with addresses overseas. 4 members who were in arrears for 1990 became paid up in 1991 and 9 members resigned from 1 January 1991. 21 members were in arrears in 1991 and 20 members were struck off under Rule (7) having failed to pay the subscription for 1990. Membership 1990. Due to changes in the membership list compi- lation in 1990 several errors unfortunately occurred and the numbers given in the Report of the Committee 1990 were inaccurate (Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 111:2). There were, in fact, 12 resignations from 1 January 1990 and 20 members failed to pay their subscriptions for the year. Paid up membership at 31 December 1990 was 612, 388 within the U.K. and 224 overseas. This was a fall in the number of paid up members of the Club for the year, but it in part reflected the decrease in the number of members recruited to the Union, from which the Club would have expected to recruit new members in 1990. Bulletin sales. Non-member subscribers were 148, 23 within the U.K. and 125 overseas. A general reduction in non-member subscribers has been noted by publishers world-wide in recent years and 1s considered to reflect a lack of funds now available to institutions and libraries. Mrs F. E. Warr kindly continues to look after the stock of back-numbers of the Bulletin, dealing with back-number sales and with separates for authors. Bulletin. Volume 111 contained 240 pages, maintaining the enlarged size of recent years. Papers included descriptions of one new species and 5 new subspecies; new distributional data from India, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, Bolivia and Brazil; new ecological, breeding and behavioural data on many little known species; and several discussions of problematical points of taxonomy and nomenclature. The usual very welcome geo- graphical spread of authors was maintained, with contributors from 17 countries and 5 continents. We recorded above the death of Helmut Sick, a contributor over many years, who died while his latest paper, on a little-known Brazilian swift (pp. 38—41), was in proof. Finance. As a result of the substantial deficit in 1990, the Committee decided to raise the annual subscription for members to £8.50, from January 1992. This is not a high charge for what the Club offers. Thanks to the high reputation of the Bulletin, and much hard work to increase the number of members and the sales of the Bulletin, it had been possible to maintain an unchanged annual subscription for 13 years, a considerable feat in view of the high rates of inflation during that period. Annual General Meeting 3 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) In 1991 transfer was made of the Club’s main bank account to Barclays Bank plc, on which interest is paid at rates comparable with those for money on deposit. As a new service to members a credit card facility for payment of subscriptions and for goods was introduced in November. The Giro account is being maintained for the time being as a service to overseas members. The accounts for 1991, which are not yet available, will be tabled at the Annual General Meeting and published subsequently in the Bulletin. Members wishing to have copies before the Annual General Meeting are asked to apply to the Honorary Treasurer. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The 1992 Annual General Meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club will be held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 at 6 p.m. on Tuesday 19 May 1992. AGENDA — . Minutes of the last Annual General Meeting (see Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 111: 113-114). Report of the Committee and Accounts for 1991. The Bulletin. Election of Officers. The Committee proposes that:— (a4) MrS. J. Farnsworth be re-elected Honorary Treasurer (i) Mrs A. M. Moore be re-elected Honorary Secretary. . The Committee proposes the following resolution:— “1. That Richard Charles Price and Nigel John Crocker be appointed new Trustees of the Trust Deed dated 24 September 1985 (‘‘the 1985 Trust Deed’’) to fill the vacancies caused by the retirement of John Gordon Parker and David Reginald Calder. 2. That approval be given by the Club to the alteration of the trusts powers and provisions contained in the 1985 Trust Deed contained in the document submitted to this meeting.’ 6. Any other business of which notice shall be given in accordance with Rule (12). - & bo on By Order of the Committee AMBERLEY M. Moore, Honorary Secretary The text of the document referred to in item 5 of the Agenda above which will be submitted to the meeting is as follows:— THIS DEED is made on 1992 BY RICHARD CHARLES PRICE of 10 Maltravers Street, London WC2R 3BS Solici- tor, PETER JAMES OLIVER of ‘The Briar Patch’, Trevereux Hill, Limpsfield Chart, Oxted, Surrey RH80TL and NIGEL JOHN CROCKER of ‘Arlington’, Douro Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 2PF (together ‘‘the Trustees’’) SUPPLEMENTAL tothe Trust Deed (‘the Trust Deed’’) specified in schedule 1. Annual General Meeting 4 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) WHEREAS (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) NOW 1. Dp Trust The Original Trustees hold the freehold property known as ‘Clovelly’, 4 Beacons- field Road, Tring, Hertfordshire (“‘the property’’) upon trust for sale under the trusts contained in the Trust Deed and it is intended that the proceeds of sale of the property shall be held under the continuing trusts of the Trust Deed and the trusts of this deed and shall be known as ““The Herbert Stevens Fund”’. By clause 8 of the Trust Deed the Trustees being the present Trustees of the Trust Deed may with the previous approval of the Committee at any time revoke or alter all or any of the trusts powers and provisions of the Trust Deed or add any new trusts powers and provisions whether applicable to any particular property held by the ‘Trustees or generally. A majority of the members of the Committee has given their approval to the pro- visions contained in this deed by voting thereon at a meeting of the Committee. The Trustees wish to revoke the provisions specified in schedule 2. The Trustees wish to add the provisions specified in schedule 3. THIS DEED WITNESSETH as follows The Trustees HEREBY IRREVOCABLY REVOKE the clauses of the Trust Deed specified in schedule 2. The Trustees HEREBY IRREVOCABLY DECLARE that the Trust Deed shall be read and construed as if the provisions specified in schedule 3 were expressly incorporated in the Trust Deed. THIS TRUST shall be known as ‘““The Herbert Stevens Trust’’ or by such other title as the Trustees may from time to time by deed appoint. SCHEDULE 1 Deed dated 24 September 1985 made between Bernard Gray and Diana Mary Bradley (1) and John Gordon Parker, Peter James Oliver and David Reginald Calder (2) (‘the Original Trustees’’). (a) (b) (c) 4(3) wn SCHEDULE 2 Sub-clause 4(3) (Trustees’ powers regarding income and capital); clause 5 (T'rustees’ powers of investment); clause 8 (Trustees’ power to vary trusts of Trust Deed). SCHEDULE 3 Subject to the foregoing provisions of this clause and to any conditions subject to which any particular property may be vested in them the ‘Trustees shall pay to the ‘Treasurer any income arising from the property or from any money investments or other property from time to time held by the Trustees under this deed, and may apply any money representing the capital so held by them or any part thereof for such purposes as the Club from time to time approves. In furtherance of the objects of the Club as set out in the Rules of the Club (but not further or otherwise) the Trustees in addition and without prejudice to all other powers hereby or by law conferred on them shall have the following powers exercisable at their discretion: (a) to apply any money or property for the time being subject to the trusts hereof by investing the same in the names or under the control of the Trustees in the purchase or on the security of such shares stocks funds or other investments apart from freehold and leasehold property whatsoever and wheresoever and whether or not involving liability or producing income or by lending the same to such person or persons as the Trustees shall in their absolute discretion think fit TO THE INTENT that the Trustees shall have the same full and unrestricted powers of investing and retaining varying and transposing investments and laying out money in all respects (without being obliged to diversify investments) as if they were absolute beneficial owners thereof but subject always to such consents and conditions (if any) as may for the time being be imposed or required by law; (b) to accept and receive (or in the discretion of the Trustees to disclaim) gifts subscriptions donations subsidies grants guarantees covenanted payments legacies bequests or other payments or transfers of money or property of any kind to be held as an addition to the Trust Fund or any part thereof including Annual General Meeting 5 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) power to accept and receive the same on or subject to any special trusts con- ditions or restrictions within the objects of the Club and for such purposes to enter into such contracts within the objects of the Club as the Trustees think fit; (c) in connection with the investment and changing of investments of trust money to obtain and pay for the advice of such brokers and other professional advisers as the Trustees may think fit. 8. The Trustees may with the previous approval of the Club at any time by an instru- ment in writing under seal revoke or alter all or any of the trusts powers and provisions herein contained or add any new trusts powers and provisions whether applicable to any particular property held by the Trustees or generally. 9(6) Any approval given by the Club for the purposes of this deed shall be sufficiently given if given by a resolution passed by a majority of four-fifths of members voting thereon at a general meeting of the Club at which not less than 25 members are present and of which not less than three weeks notice specifying the resolution which it is intended to propose shall have been given in the manner in which notice of general meetings of the Club is usually given. it The Trustees shall keep proper accounts of all money received or other property for the time being vested in or held by them under this deed and of any payments made or expenses incurred by them under or for the purposes of this deed and (if and so long as the trustees shall not be a trust corporation) once at least in every year such accounts shall be examined and audited by the auditors for the time being of the Club and as soon as practicable after 31 December in every year or such other date as may be determined by the Committee the Trustees shall present to the Committee a copy of the accounts for the period from the date to which the last audited account so presented shall have been made up, or, in the case of the first account, from the date of this deed, and a copy of the auditors’ report on such accounts. THIS DEED has been executed as a deed on the date first written above. by RICHARD CHARLES PRICE in the presence of: SIGNED as a Deed and paebenae SIGNED as a Deed and PRICE in the} by PETER JAMES OLIVER in the presence of: SIGNED as a Deed and DELIVERED by NIGEL JOHN CROCKER in the presence of: The Trust Deed specified in Schedule 1 was published in Bull. Brit. Orn. Club, 1985 105(10) pp. 3-7. Copies of this may be obtained on application to the Hon. Secretary. The eight hundred and thirteenth meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday 22 October 1991 in the Ante-Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington at 6.15 p.m. 28 members and 14 guests attended. Members attending were: R. E. F. Peat (Chairman), Dr R. A. CHEKE (Speaker), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, P. J. BELMAN, Mrs D. M. BrapLey, Cdr M. B. CASEMENT, RN Retd, I. D. CoLtins, P. J. Conper, Dr H. P. Q. Crick, S.J. FARNSworTH, G. D. FIELD, Rey. T. W. GLapwin, D. GrirFin, R. H. Kettie, DrJ. F. Monk, Mrs A. M. Moore, R.G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mut er, J. G. PARKER, R. G. Price, V. SAWLE, Dr R. SELF, P. J. SELLAR, R. E. SHARLAND, Dr D. W. SNow, A. SwasH, Dr J. F. WALSH. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, I. BEAMEs, D. J. CHEKE, Dr J. A. Cotes, J. R. Davipson, Mrs F. M. FAaRNswortuH, Mrs J. M. GLapwin, Miss K. Horr, A. M. Hutson, P. J. Moore, Dr J. Morris, C. A. MULLER, Mrs M. Price, P. SALAMAN. After supper Dr Robert A. Cheke spoke on the birds of Togo. Following a brief introduc- tion to the history of the country, which was controlled by the Germans from 1884 to 1914 when important collections were made by Baumann, Buttner, Zech and others at Misahohe, Bismarckburg, Mango and elsewhere, he showed colour slides illustrating key habitats and their birds. In addition to Afro-tropical species, many migrant Palaearctic birds occur in Togo including substantial populations of House Martins Delichon urbica. Alpine Swifts Apus melba are also regularly seen. A. G. Navarro et al. 6 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) The eight hundred and fourteenth meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday 26 November 1991 in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington at 6.15 p.m. 35 members and 23 guests attended. Members attending were: R. E. F. PEAL (Chairman and Speaker), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, B. H. Beck, P. J. BELMan, P. J. BuLL, Dr J. ByNon, I. CoLurins, D. R. CaLprer, Cdr M. B. CaseMENT, RN Retd, Dr R. CHEKE, P. J. CONDER, A. Gisss, Rev. T. W. GLapwin, D. GriFFIN, C. A. R. HELM, K. W. HENSHALL, R. H. Kerrce, I.'T. Lewis, Dr J. MeLDrRuM, Dr J. F. Monk, Mrs A. M. Moors, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mutter, P. J. OLtver, J. G. Parker, R. G. Price, A. J. RANDALL, P. REpMAN, M. L. R. Romer, Dr R. SExF, N. H. F. Stone, M. P. Watters, C. WHEELER, M. W. Woopcock. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Mrs H. BULL, Professor T. ByNon, Professor R. CHANDLER, Mrs E. CHANDLER, J. CRYER, J. FISHER, Mrs L. Fisher, Mrs J. M. GLApwin, Mrs S. GriFFIN, Mrs B. Hammonp, D. Harris, Miss K. Horr, Ms M. Hunt, Dr H. Metprum, Mrs D. Monk, P. J. Moore, R. NEwron, Mrs E. Newton, Mrs M. OLtver, Mrs B. Peat, Mrs M. Price, Mrs B. J. Woopcock. New distributional information on Mexican birds. I. The Sierra de Atoyac, Guerrero by Adolfo G. Navarro S., A. Townsend Peterson & Patricia Escalante P. Received 20 February 1991 Ornithologists have studied Mexican birds for several centuries, with the earliest scientific treatments dating from about 1570 (Trabulse 1983). Nevertheless, much remains to be learned about the distribution, biology, status and ecology of the Mexican avifauna (Escalante et al., in press). Many biologically important areas and habitats remain largely unexplored due to remoteness or difficulty of access. This paper represents the first of an intended series of reports on new information on Mexican birds gained as a result of surveys and collecting efforts by ourselves and our colleagues. The avifauna of the Sierra Madre del Sur of Guerrero has been studied intensively during the past 120 years. The first explorations of the region were by collectors working for Salvin & Godman (1879-1904). Subse- quently, information was reported by Nelson (1903). Griscom (1934, 1937), Berlioz (1937), Martin del Campo (1948), Blake (1950) and Goldman (1951). Wilmot W. Brown, a professional collector, spent many years in the vicinity of Chilpancingo and Omiltemi (often misspelled Omilteme), assembling large series of most species present. More recent studies in the Omiltemi area have yielded a few additions to the avifauna and detailed ecological information on most species present (Navarro & Escalante, in prep.). Omiltemi and most of the other old collecting localities are located on the drier, interior slopes of the Sierra Madre del Sur. The avifauna of the more humid, coastal slopes of the mountain range, however, remains largely unknown. Collectors in the employ of Robert T. Moore explored the forests between the lowland city of Atoyac de Alvarez and the highest peak in the region, Cerro Teotepec, discovering the Short-crested A. G. Navarro etal. 7 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Coquette Lophornis brachylopha (Moore 1949, Banks 1990), as well as several other new forms (Friedmann et al. 1950, Miller et al. 1957). Besides these specimens, many of which carry incomplete locality data, little is known of the area’s avifauna. In this paper, we present new distri- butional information on populations of four species newly discovered in the area during seven years of work in the Sierra de Atoyac. Data on altitudinal distributions are given in Navarro (1986, and in press); and an apparently new species of Cypseloides swift collected in the region will be described in detail elsewhere (Navarro et al., in prep.). Two of us(AGNS and PEP, later joined by ATP) began working in the Sierra de Atoyac in 1983. Work was concentrated along an altitudinal transect from the city of Atoyac de Alvarez to near the peak of Cerro Teotepec, at altitudes from 600 to 3100 m. The base of the transect lies in semideciduous tropical forest, above which is cloud forest, humid pine- oak forest, and finally fir forest. On 17 trips totalling 90 field days, we assembled a list of 162 species. Three of these proved to be considerable range extensions and new records for the state of Guerrero, and one other provided a definite record for a species formerly of doubtful status in the state. Below, we describe briefly information on these populations, pre- senting comparisons with specimens from other geographic areas. Throughout, we refer to the collections of the Museo de Zoologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, the Instituto de Biologia, UNAM, and the Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, as MZFC, IBUNAM, and UMMZ, respectively. EYE-RINGED FLATBILL Rhynchocyclus brevirostris This species ranges from Colombia and Ecuador north to Puebla and Veracruz on the Atlantic slope, and southern Oaxaca on the Pacific slope (A.0.U. 1983, Binford 1989). The nominate subspecies is found in eastern and southern Mexico, and the subspecies pallidus is known from the Sierra de Yucuyacua and the Sierra de Miahuatlan of Oaxaca (Binford 1965). Three specimens (MZFC 5870, IBUNAM 7335, 7336) have been collected from the Sierra de Atoyac of Guerrero, including one male and two females. Two of these were collected in semideciduous tropical forest at Arroyo Grande, 13 km NE of Paraiso, and the third was taken in cloud forest near the ranch called Retrocesos. Comparisons of plumage colouration with representatives of other populations of this species indicate that the Guerrero population is indistinguishable from populations of southern Oaxaca (pallidus), and differs from specimens from Veracruz and Chiapas (brevirostris) in having a paler breast and upper throat (as in Binford 1965). Measure- ments of several characters (Table 1), though based on small sample sizes, indicate no significant differences among populations from Guerrero, southwestern and southern Oaxaca, and southern Chiapas. OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER Sittasomus griseicapillus This species ranges widely in South America, north through Central America to San Luis Pososi and southwestern Tamaulipas on the Atlantic slope (Miller et al. 1957), and west to the Sierra de Miahuatlan on the Pacific slope of Oaxaca (Binford 1989). Populations on the Pacific slope in Jalisco and Nayarit are thought to be geographically isolated (Miller et al. A. G. Navarro et al. 8 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) 1957, Grant 1964, Escalante 1988). Nine specimens in the collections of MZFC and IBUNAM now document the presence of this species in semideciduous tropical forest in the Sierra de Atoyac. The series includes five males and four females, eight of which were obtained at Arroyo Grande, 13 km NE of El Paraiso, and one at El Faisanal. Recent records indicate that populations exist on the coastal slopes of Michoacan (L. and F. Villasenor, pers. comm.). Given the discovery of populations inter- mediate between the supposedly disjunct populations of southern Oaxaca and Jalisco, we predict that additional work will document populations of the species continuously along the Pacific slope of Mexico from Oaxaca through Nayarit. Comparisons of plumage colouration of the Guerrero population with that of populations to the northwest and east indicate few characters distinguishing jaliscensis of Jalisco from populations of southern Oaxaca and eastern Mexico. Measurement data for the Guerrero population are overall more similar to the populations of Jalisco than to those of Oaxaca and Chiapas (‘Table 1): populations of Guerrero and Jalisco have consistently longer beaks, wings and tails than populations to the southeast. GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER Basileuterus culicivorus This species is known from ‘Tamaulipas and Nuevo Leon on the Atlantic slope, and southeastern Oaxaca on the Pacific slope, south to northern Argentina (Miller et al. 1957). Populations from Nayarit south to Colima (Miller et al. 1957, Schaldach 1963, Escalante 1988) and on the Pacific slope of Oaxaca (Phillips 1966) are thought to be disjunct isolates. ‘Twenty-one specimens in the collections of the MZFC and IBUNAM document the existence of populations in the Sierra de Atoyac between 600 and 1400 m altitude in semideciduous tropical forest and the lower reaches of cloud forest. Given the habitat usage of the species, which includes disturbed habitats, we predict the presence of continuous popu- lations along the entire Pacific slope of Mexico, especially in the foothills of coastal Michoacan. Comparisons of colouration, especially of the yellow crown stripe, suggest that the Guerrero population falls into an overall cline from brighter and yellower in the northwest to duller with greater orange suffusion in eastern and southern populations. Individual variation apparently related to age, however, is strong, with geographic differences apparent only in the frequency of pure, broad, yellow crown stripes. We consider division of this subtle clinal variation (formerly known from the terminal populations only) into subspecies (Phillips 1966) unnecessary, because the overall level of differentiation is at best slight. Measurement data (Table 1) indicate little geographic variation in size and shape, other than slight clines towards increasing wing and tail length in northwestern populations. LONG-BILLED STARTHROAT Heliomaster longirostris This species is known from Bolivia and central Brazil north to Veracruz on the Atlantic slope and western Oaxaca on the Pacific slope (Friedmann et al. 1950, Binford 1989). Although the species is listed for Guerrero by Friedmann et al. (1950), its status in Guerrero is recorded as doubtful by A.G. Navarro et al. 9 TABLE 1 Measurements of populations of the four species along the Pacific slope of Mexico and Guatemala. Measurements (mm) are bill length from anterior edge of nostril, tarsus length, wing chord, and tail length. Feather characters (wing and tail) were not measured on some individuals due to wear of the plumage Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Population Sex n Bill ‘Tarsus Wing Tail Heliomaster longirostris Guerrero M 5 30.86+1.65 “= 59.54+2.6 37.44+1.2 Oaxaca Me oi SPAS) — 61.2 39.20 Chiapas M 5 28.68+2.39 — O2 Stee SnnS De Opstsall 2 Guatemala M 6 28.88+1.65 — Ole Sa e Ol" 322 O06 Sittasomus griseicapillus Jalisco Mi S054 O35 70777 EO74 82264 S51 821-553 F 2 10.14+0.06 17.31+0.03 76.94+0.1 79.6+2.3 Guerrero IM 5 OZ Oc OFS PTO OOS Shs. 8228s 8 O63) 1 E. 45 972220. 17,..16-84-- 046 475a7 se 10) 7483 E13 Oaxaca M 1 9.73 18.19 GP 76.29 Chiapas M 3 9.52+0.40 17.85+0.05 80.0+1.0 79.7+2.5 F 1 9.51 18.88 72.8 74.9 Rhynchocyclus brevirostris Guerrero M 1 9.01 19.01 78.0 67.0 F 2 10.38+0.18 18.76+1.27 64.04+2.8 62.5+0.7 Oaxaca, Yucuyacua VIC Pe 2 OS OAT 7980457: 77.47 = Oaxaca, Miahuatlan M 3 8.48+0.62 18.74+0.39 76.7+5.1 67.0+3.0 Be 459371 20) 9:17-79/50363) 417328 251 65.51 1029 Chiapas M 6 9.48+0.54 18.9841.29 81.341.2 71.7+43.2 Ba. 3. 9148520.74 18°84 073) 787k 1055) 6825 ck 35. Basileuterus culicivorus Nayarit + Jalisco IVINS el UES 19.65 60.9 55.0 Be 2S 7 OSS MODS 102330 160M Oe 5470-2270 Guerrero M 12 7.30+0.28 19.18+0.67 60.24+1.9 54.5+1.9 Bey 9630317 19121-EO4 8h 57:8: 23) 4 52264250 Oaxaca M 8 7.60+0.:25 19.37+0.49 59.441.6 53.5+1.2 F 1 7.59 18.74 57.0 52.0 A.O.U. (1983). The reason for this confusion appears to be frequent misidentification of longirostris as the similar species H. constantii; for example, a specimen from ‘‘Chilpancingo”’ collected by W. W. Brown (UMMZ 117296), originally identified as constanti1, is actually longirostris. Seven specimens in MZFC and IBUNAM from semideciduous tropical forest (600-1200 m altitude) in the Sierra de Atoyac further document the presence of longzrostris in the state of Guerrero. Although Phillips (1966) describes the populations of the Pacific slope of Oaxaca as a separate subspecies (masculinus), we see the overall level of differentiation in plumage colouration as slight, and difficult to evaluate based on the small series available. Morphological measurements, how- ever, indicate that the populations of southern Oaxaca and Guerrero have distinctly longer bills and tails than populations below the Isthmus of A. G. Navarro et al. 10 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(1) Tehuantepec (Table 1). Hence, populations above the Isthmus of ‘Tehuantepec indeed seem to form a group apart from those below. Discussion The new distributional records documented above, combined with avi- faunal lists presented elsewhere (Navarro 1986, and in prep.), indicate that the avifauna of the Sierra de Atoyac is rich in species restricted to cloud forest and semideciduous tropical forest. A number of holes in species’ ranges are filled, indicating that range disjunctions even in a region as well known as southern Mexico may often be due to inadequate representation in collections rather than actual absence of the species in intervening areas. Additional important sight records for the region have been gath- ered by Steve N. G. Howell and Sophie Webb (pers. comm.), including Sarcoramphus papa, Falco albigularis, Spizaetus ornatus, S. tyrannus, Rostrhamus sociabilis, Dromococcyx phasianellus, Dendrocolaptes certhia, Cyanerpes cyaneus and Piranga leucoptera, as well as several migrant species listed in Howell & Wilson (1990). In general, the need for additional exploration and collection in Mexico is emphasised by the new discoveries resulting from this project. Of interest to a more general understanding of patterns of differ- entiation in the Mexican avifauna is the apparent pattern of subspecific variation in the two species treated above that occur in Jalisco, Guerrero, Oaxaca, and areas farther to the south. In both cases, somewhat surpris- ingly, the Guerrero population is most similar to the Jalisco population, rather than to the closer Oaxaca population. However, both species are found in lowland and foothill forests, so significant barriers may not exist between Guerrero and Jalisco. The generality of these geographic patterns must await more detailed studies of intraspecific differentiation in a wider array of species. Acknowledgements We would like to extend a warm thanks to our many field companions: without their dedication and hard work, little would have been accomplished in this project. We also thank the following curators and collection managers for access to collections under their care: Enriqueta Velarde and Noemi Chavez (IBUNAM), Robert Storer (UMMZ), Scott Lanyon and David Willard (Field Museum of Natural History), Lloyd Kiff and Kimball Garrett (Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology and Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History), John Hafner (Moore Laboratory of Zoology) and J. Van Remsen (Louisiana State University Museum of Natural Science). Thanks also to Laura and Fernando Villasenor, Steve N. G. Howell and Sophie Webb for sharing their knowledge of Mexican birds. Special thanks to Claudia Abad de Navarro and Amy Peterson for standing long absences of their spouses, and for encouragement throughout. Financial support was provided by Facultad de Ciencias, U.N.A.M.; Direccion General de Asuntos del Personal Académico, U.N.A.M. (IN 201789); National Science Foundation Dissertation Improvement Program; National Geographic Society; and Field Museum of Natural History. References: A.O.U. 1983. Check-list of North American birds, 6th edn. American Ornithologists’ Union. Banks, R. C. 1990. Taxonomic status of the coquette hummingbird of Guerrero, Mexico. Auk 107: 191-192. Berlioz, J. 1937. Note sur une collection d’oiseaux du Mexique. Bull. Mus. Nat. Hist. Paris 9: 170-175. A. G. Navarro et al. 11 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Binford, L. C. 1965. Two new subspecies of birds from Oaxaca, Mexico. Occ. Pap. Mus. Zool. Louisiana State Univ. 30: 1-6. Binford, L. C. 1989. A Distributional Survey of the Birds of the Mexican State of Oaxaca. Orn. Monogr. no 43. American Ornithologists’ Union. Blake, E. R. 1950. Birds of Mexico. Univ. Chicago Press. Escalante, P. E. 1988. Aves de Nayarit. Univ. Auton. Nayarit, Tepic. Escalante, P. E., Navarro S., A. G. & Peterson, A. T. Inpress. A geographic, ecological, and historical analysis of land bird diversity in Mexico. In T. P. Ramamoorthy, J. Fa & R. Bye (eds), The Biological Diversity of Mexico. Oxford Univ. Press. Friedmann, H., Griscom, L. & Moore, R. T. 1950. Distributional check-list of the birds of Mexico, part 1. Pacific Coast Avifauna 29: 1-202. Goldman, E. A. 1951. Biological investigations in Mexico. Smiths. Misc. Coll. 115: 1-476. Grant, P. R. 1964. Nuevos datos sobre las aves de Jalisco y Nayarit, Mexico. An. Inst. Biol. Univ. Nac. Auton. Mex. 35: 123-126. Griscom, L. 1934. The ornithology of Guerrero, Mexico. Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. 75: 365-422. Griscom, L. 1937. A collection of birds from Omilteme, Guerrero. Auk 54: 192-199. Howell, S. N. G. & Wilson, R. G. 1990. Chestnut-collared Longspur (Calcarius ornatus) and other migrants of note in Guerrero, Mexico. Aves Mexicanas 2: 7-8. Martin del Campo, R. 1948. Contribucion para el conocimiento de la fauna ornitologica del estado de Guerrero. An. Inst. Biol. Univ. Nac. Auton. México 19: 241-266. Miller, A. H., Friedmann, H., Griscom, L. & Moore, R. T. 1957. Distributional check-list of the birds of Mexico, part 2. Pacific Coast Avifauna 33: 1-436. Moore, R. T. 1949. A new hummingbird of the genus Lophornis from southern Mexico. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 62: 103-104. Navarro S., A. G. 1986. Distribucion altitudinal de las aves en la Sierra de Atoyac, Guerrero. Prof. Thesis, Facultad de Ciencias, U.N.A.M., Mexico. Navarro S., A. G. In press. Altitudinal distribution of birds in the Sierra Madre del Sur, Guerrero, Mexico. Condor. Nelson, E. W. 1903. Descriptions of new birds from southern Mexico. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 16: 151-160. Phillips, A. R. 1966. Further systematic notes on Mexican birds. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 86: 86—94, 103-112, 125-131, 148-159. Salvin, O. & Godman, F. D. 1879-1904. Biologia Centrali- Americana. Vols 1—3 (Aves). Taylor & Francis, London. Schaldach, W. J. Jr. 1963. The avifauna of Colima and adjacent Jalisco, Mexico. Proc. West. Found. Vert. Zool. 1: 1-100. Trabulse, E. 1983. Historia de la Ciencia en México, Siglo XVI. Fondo de Cultura Economica, Mexico. Addresses: Adolfo G. Navarro S., Museo de Zoologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de México, Mexico, D.F. 04510, México. A Townsend Peterson, Division of Birds, Field Museum of Natural History, Roosevelt Road at Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60605-2496, U.S.A. Patricia Escalante P., Department of Ornithology, American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, New York 10024, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1991 M. W. Fraser et al. 12 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Observations on the Inaccessible Island Rail Atlantisia rogersi: the world’s smallest flightless bird M.W. Fraser, W. R. F. Dean & I. C. Best Received 3 April 1991 The diminutive flightless rail Atlantisia rogersi of Inaccessible Island is the sole extant species of its genus (Olson 1973). It is the only landbird endemic to the island and is the world’s smallest flightless bird (Collar & Stuart 1985). The bird was described by Lowe (1928) from specimens collected in 1922, but the ecology of the bird remains little known, mainly because the remoteness of and consequent infrequency of visits to Inaccessible Island. We present here the results of observations on the Inaccessible Island Rail made between October 1982 and February 1983 (M.W.F., I.C.B.) and in October 1989 (W.R.J.D.). The few other published data are discussed and the account in Collar & Stuart (1985) is expanded upon. Study site and methods Inaccessible (37°15'S, 12°30’W) is the second largest island of the Tristan da Cunha group, central South Atlantic. The topography and biota of the island are described by Wace & Holdgate (1976), Fraser et al. (1988) and references therein. In 1982-83 the densities of rails in the island’s four basic vegetation types were estimated by recording birds seen or, more commonly, heard as we walked slowly through the vegetation. The proportion of the island occupied by the vegetation types was estimated from our own obser- vations and expressed in km? based on a planar area for Inaccessible of 16 km? (Dunne 1941), with an additional 1 km’ to allow for steep cliffs. Observations of individually-marked rails, nest watches and measure- ments of chicks were made at Blenden Hall in the west of the island. This site is the only extensive land area at sea level and is dominated by tall (up to 3 m) tussock grass Spartina arundinacea. Adults were sexed on size (males tend to be slightly larger than females), and differences in colour of their cheeks and ear coverts (Elliott 1957, Ryan et al. 1989). Opportunistic observations were made of rails elsewhere in the coastal lowlands, and on the island plateau where the vegetation is dominated by Blechnum palmiforme tree ferns, Island Tree Phylica arborea and a variety of ferns and sedges. Results and discussion Habitat choice and population size The rail occurs in all vegetation types at Inaccessible Island, foraging also on exposed boulder beaches on and above the high-tide line. Popu- lation estimates made at the Blenden Hall study area were considered to M. W. Fraser et al. 13 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) be relatively accurate; elsewhere on the island few data were collected, thus estimates made there were crude and may be considered indicative only. In mixed tussock/ Blechnum penna-marina fern vegetation (1 km’) at Blenden Hall the density of full-grown rails was estimated to be 15 birds per hectare. Here and elsewhere the density in virtually pure tussock (4 km*) was estimated to be 10 birds per hectare; in mixed upland vegetation (short ferns, tussock etc; 7 km’) on the island plateau to be five birds per hectare, and in Phylicajtree fern B. palmiforme (also confined to the plateau; 5 km‘) to be two birds per hectare. No rails were recorded ina small area of short tussock on the well-drained cinder cones near South Hill, although this does not necessarily imply their complete absence from this habitat. The estimated island population of 10,000 rails is that reported in Collar & Stuart (1985). P. G. Ryan, contra Siddall (1985), calculated Inaccessible Island’s planar area to be 13 km’. This reassess- ment of its area does not change the proportions in which the vegetation types occur but gives an extrapolated population of 8400 rails. Such a revised figure is unlikely to be significant, however, as the estimate 1s, at best, crude and the surface area of the island is greater than the planar. In the breeding season, chicks would considerably raise the population—12 chicks were recorded in the Blenden Hall study site (1 ha) in December 1982. In 1989 the rails appeared to be most numerous in tussock grass patches occupying relatively moist sites in the lowlands, and in patches of sedges Carex thouarsiu and Scirpus sulcatus on the plateau. Hagen (1952) estimated the rail population in 1938 to be 1200 birds, while accepting that this was likely to be an underestimate. In 1952, the popu- lation was estimated at 5—10,000 birds (Elliott 1957). Extrapolating from observations made over a four-day visit to Salt Beach on the island’s east coast in 1974, Richardson (1984) estimated 1—2000 breeding pairs. These rough estimates cannot be used to imply any changes in population size. Tussock fires in 1872 and 1909 (Wace & Holdgate 1976) probably would have killed many rails. Post-fire recolonization by rails of tussock (which regenerates from seed and rootstocks) could take place from damp areas, unburnt vegetation and other refugia; thus the effects of fire on the rail population would be temporary. There apparently have been no fires or similarly catastrophic events at Inaccessible Island for over eighty years. It is likely, therefore, that at present the population is at carrying capacity and that regulatory mechanisms such as low fertility and delayed maturity operate to limit productivity (Ryan et al. 1989). General habits ‘The Inaccessible Island Rail has been likened to a mouse in terms of the ecological niche which it occupies (Collar & Stuart 1985). This analogy is a fair one and may be extended to include the bird’s general habits. Its swift, darting runs and moments of immobility and its foraging behaviour are reminiscent more of a mouse than a bird. It forages slowly and deliber- ately, but can run extremely fast when alarmed or in pursuit of a rival. When running the wings are raised and arched and the body lowered. When traversing or feeding in open ground, such as short vegetation or boulder beaches, it is extremely wary. It is active mainly in daylight, but also forages and calls at night. M. W. Fraser et al. 14 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) In addition to the cover and protection afforded by tall vegetation, particularly tussock, the rails use natural connecting cavities under boulder beaches and small tunnels (formed by regular use) through Blechnum penna-marina and sedge mats for access and concealment. ‘There is no evidence that rails excavate underground burrows, although Elhott (1957: 202) notes that a captive bird dug a hole ‘“‘nearly a foot [30 cm] deep by the roots of a tussock plant’’. Fuli-grown rails and chicks will climb up Phylica and bundles of tussock to 1.5m where the slope is less than c. 60°, extending and flapping their wings for balance and, probably, aided by their well-developed ‘thumb claw’. Inaccessible Island Rails occur singly, in pairs or in family groups of up to five birds which comprise parents and their two chicks and single subadult birds. Although the members of such groups stay close and generally in sight of one another, they maintain vocal contact almost continuously. Food The rail has a varied diet of plant and animal matter. Our observations do not add to the range of food detailed by previous authors (Rogers 1926, Hagen 1952, Elliott 1957, Richardson 1984). The rails were not recorded eating fish or bird carrion. Fish carrion occurs as beach strandings or seabird regurgitates; bird remains are readily available where carcasses are abandoned by Subantarctic Skuas Catharacta antarctica. At Gough Island, 350km southeast of Tristan, this resource is exploited by a flightless moorhen Gallinula comeri (Watkins & Furness 1986) and at Inaccessible Island by the Tristan Thrush Nesocichla eremita. 'The rails ignored foods such as cheese and bread used to bait walk-in traps, and which were readily eaten by thrushes. Such partitioning might reduce feeding competition between the two species, although their diets do overlap (pers. obs). Rail chicks were fed invertebrates (see below). Vocalizations and display The Inaccessible Island Rail is highly vocal, employing a variety of often loud calls, presumably to communicate in the dense vegetation where visual contact is precluded. A commonly-used vocalization is a loud trill, similar to that of the Dabchick Podiceps ruficollis or the Cape Rail Rallus caerulescens. 'This trill is uttered by members of breeding pairs on meeting and in threat display between adults of different pairs or family groups. Confrontations between rival adults are accompanied by loud squealing followed by a prolonged twitter, or one bird squeals while the other utters a long, excited keekeekeekeekee ... twitter, of varying length and ending keekeechitrrrr. The birds face each other, standing a few centimetres apart while their heads are lowered and bills pointed to the ground. Sometimes they then slowly circle about a point midway between them. After a short time one bird slowly retreats, or 1s driven off by the other following two or three skirmishes or a fast chase. The victorious bird then may utter a weechup, weechup call. A courtship display involves much the same vocalizations and movements, but ends with the birds moving off silently together. Courtship feeding takes place silently and involves the presentation of food (earthworms or centipedes) M.W. Fraser et al. 15 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) by the male to the female. The latter bobs its head prior to accepting the food. Foraging adults give a slow, rather monotonous tchik, tchik, tchok, tchik ..., a soft, enquiring choptchaptchick and a soft tchik-tchuk or chip chip. The last call is also given by incubating birds or when disturbed at the nest. A hard chip alarm call is repeated when Subantarctic Skuas fly overhead. This call prompts adults to become alert and chicks to become silent. We were unable, because of the density of the vegetation, to determine the circumstances under which other calls were given. These calls include a soft t7k tik, an aggressive tchick, a harsh rattling trill, a brief schkreek, a high-pitched, enquiring tip, a queechick rising on the chick, a squick, a twanging chong chick, a short t-tchip and a low, guttural queechock. Calls during incubation are detailed below. Chicks utter a repetitive tchwip contact call, similar to that of many young galliformes when following their parents. If visual contact with the adults is lost, the chick gives a more resonant tchwee. The call becomes louder and more frequent the longer the chick is separated from its parents. Territoriality The dense vegetation made observations of colour-ringed birds at Blenden Hall difficult, and sightings are likely to reflect the relative ease of observation of the birds as much as their movements. Nevertheless, our results indicated that individual rails and family parties tended to remain largely, but not exclusively, within small areas (0.01—0.04 ha). Skirmishes between adult birds, involving loud trilling and buffetting, were recorded when families or adults met. The high density of rails made such encounters frequent and necessitated what is likely to be a very loose and flexible territorial system. Breeding Apart from notes on the eggs (Rothschild 1928), nest and eggs (Fraser 1989) and broods of young (Broekhuysen & Macnae 1949, Hagen 1952, Richardson 1984, Fraser 1989), the breeding biology of the Inaccessible Island Rail remains largely undocumented. Breeding season Eggs or young have been found from October to February. Backdating the records of young (Broekhuysen & Macnae 1949, Hagen 1952, Richardson 1984) indicates that eggs are laid from October to January. In 1982 the first chick was recorded on 10 November, but a chick thought to be at least two weeks old was found on 18 November. There was a peak in the number of chicks in early to mid-December. Nest Nests are sited on the ground in low-growing ferns Blechnum penna- marina with sparse tussock, in sedges, at the base of tussock grass clumps or in ferns under dense cover of fallen tussock grass. An access track or broken tunnel through the vegetation runs up to 0.5m from the nest entrance. The nest is oval or pear-shaped with an entrance at the narrower M. W. Fraser et al. 16 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) end. Nests may be thinly domed (through which the incubating bird may escape when disturbed), or more sturdily roofed over with the same material as the body of the nest. One nest measured 130 mm across and high and 170mm in length. The internal diameter was 90mm and entrance hole c. 40 mm in diameter. Nests are constructed entirely of dead tussock leaves (n=4) or of dead sedges (n=1), reflecting the vegetation type in which the nest is located. In tussock nests, the outer casing is constructed from broad curled leaves, whereas the cup 1s lined with finer strips. Elliott (1957) describes a nest at Salt Beach lined with “dead leaves’’, presumably of the apple Malus or willow Salix trees near which the abandoned nest was situated. In 1982, nest material was added to a nest containing two eggs in sedges on the summit plateau. Additionally, the entrance hole was almost completely built over following the initial discovery of the nest. Neither of the nests found at Blenden Hall was so altered. It is possible that this was due to a spell of wet and cold weather (the plateau may be enveloped in orographic cloud for many days, whereas at sea level the weather remains dry and relatively warm). Clutch-size and eggs Our observations, those of Broekhuysen & Macnae (1949) and Richardson (1984) and the comment of Hagen (1952: 197), suggest that a full clutch is two (n=8). Rothschild (1928) exhibited a clutch of three eggs, collected at Inaccessible in 1927 or 1928. Although no further published details have been found, it 1s possible that these eggs came from two clutches. The eggs are pale buffy-white, creamy-white or greyish- white, with a thin scattering of small dark reddish-brown speckles and a concentration of brown speckles over slate shell marks at the broad end (Rothschild 1928; pers. obs.). The eggs resemble those of Rallus species we have examined. Mathews (1932) noted that the eggs are ‘almost indistinguishable from some varieties of the eggs of Crex crex’’. Two eggs from one clutch measured 32.6 x 22.0 and 33.8 x 23.3 mm. ‘The average mass of each of the eggs of one clutch weighed s1x times 1n the period four to two days before hatching was 8.7+0.12 g. This is some 25°% of the mass of the female, which averages 36.9 g (Ryan et al. 1989). Incubation period The incubation period of the Inaccessible Island Rail is unknown. Two clutches found on 7 October 1982 hatched on 12/13 October and 19 October, respectively. A nest found on 15 October 1989 contained two eggs which had not hatched by 24 October. Incubation regimen and behaviour Both sexes incubate. A watch was kept at one Blenden hall nest for three days before the first of the two eggs hatched. In 22.7 hours of observation, the female incubated for 9.0 hours (39.1% of the time), the male for 13.4 hours (58.4%), and the nest was unattended for 0.3 hours (2.4%). The average duration of incubation sessions was 50.4+37.3 minutes (range 5-114 minutes) by the female (n=7) and 80.7+46.0 minutes (27-143 minutes) by the male (n=9). The nest was unattended for an average of 3.3+3.2 minutes (0.3-9 minutes; n=10). Both sexes brought food M.W. Fraser et al. 17 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) to their incubating partner. Items were proffered at the nest entrance and accepted there by the incubating bird, or the latter left the nest in response to the other’s calls and received the food up to 4m from the nest. Identified food items were centipedes, earthworms and caterpillars. While incubating, the female ate small leafhoppers (Homoptera) caught on nest material at the nest entrance. The female was present at the hatching of one egg, and was replaced by the male 30 minutes later. During incubation the female occasionally undertook nest maintenance (re-arranging tussock grass). Changeover at one nest was preceded by either or both birds giving chip chip calls at intervals for up to 62 minutes. Such duets were initiated by either bird. The calls of the incubating bird became louder the longer its mate took to respond. On one occasion the incubating male trilled loudly in the nest in response to the tchuck tchuck of the approaching female, before emerging from the nest to meet her. Both birds entered the nest; the female then remained to incubate. Other observations made during incubation were: (1) the incubating bird leaving the nest when its mate was within | m of it, the pair trilling loudly for up to 20 seconds and the relieving bird slowly entering the nest; (2) the incubating bird trilling loudly while leaving the nest 1n response to its mate’s soft whistle, but returning after two minutes; (3) the male approaching the nest calling chuck chuck, but leaving after receiving no response from the incubating female; (4) the female offering a moth to the incubating male, both birds leaving the nest, the male returning to and entering the nest with the moth after 20 seconds; (5) the female trilling on the nest in response to trills from the male and other rails, but remaining in the nest. Incubating birds often looked out of the nest in response to noises. On the first day of nest watching the incubating bird left the nest at the approach of the human observer, and gave soft chip chip calls while the nest was inspected or the observer took up his watching position. On the second day and subsequently, however, the rails sat tight and had to be gently eased off the nest to inspect the contents. Under such circum- stances the male tended to sit tighter than the female. The incubating birds also accepted and ate earthworms from the observer’s hand. An incubating rail watched the approach and passing of a Tristan Thrush, but remained silent and motionless even when the latter was within 50 cm of the nest. A rail chick which ventured within sight of the nest retreated when the incubating female uttered a loud trill. Hatching schedule and success Hatching of two two-egg clutches took place at night or in daylight. In one clutch, one egg was pipping a maximum of 15 hours before hatching. The chick within the other egg was calling for a maximum of 45 hours before hatching. The interval between the hatching of the two eggs was a minimum of 23 hours and a maximum of 32 hours. The eggs of another clutch hatched a maximum of 12.5 hours apart. At this immediate pre- hatching stage the eggs weighed 8.5 g and 8.3 g. In one study nest the female carried a piece of eggshell from the nest chamber to the entrance tunnel, broke it and returned with the fragments into the nest. M. W. Fraser et al. 18 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) 11 10 MASS (G) e@—e A CHICK O—O B CHICK 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 MAXIMUM TIME SINCE HATCHING (HOURS) Figure 1. Growth of Atlantisia rogersi chicks. Changeover of brooding birds followed the same procedure as for incubation, and was accompanied by extensive vocalizations. Three (37%) of eight eggs found in 1982 were addled. Although the sample is small, it may indicate low fertility and a low breeding success. One of two eggs found in 1989 was damaged and would not have hatched. Description, development and behaviour of chicks Although specimens have been collected (Broekhuysen & Macnae 1949), the Inaccessible Island Rail chick appears not previously to have been described. Day-old chicks are covered entirely in soft, black down 7—9mm in length. Legs, feet and bill are black; gape silvery-white, inside of mandible tips black; iris dark brown. The bill is fleshy and soft and the egg-tooth white. The measurements (mm) of a day-old chick were as follows: culmen 8.0; bill width 4.0; bill depth 5.0; tarsus 11.0; outer toe 17.0; middle toe 19.5; inner toe 15.5; total length 60.5; mass 7.8 g. Weight changes of a brood of two chicks are given in Figure 1. The egg- tooth disappeared two to seven days after hatching. A chick caught when M.W. Fraser et al. 9 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) TABLE 1 Growth of Atlantisia rogersi chicks (mass in g, other measurements in mm) Bill Bill Outer Middle Inner Hind Folded Extended Date Mass Culmen depth width “Tarsus toe toe toe toe wing* wing* CHICK 1 (approximately one month old at first capture) ve 4.5 09.12.82 27.5 16.5 23.0 29.5 23.5 9.5 10.12.82 30.3 14.12.82 32.6 17.0 7.0 5.0 17.5 25.0 31.0 24.5 10.0 15.5 16.12.82 31.1 18.0 8.0 5.0 18.0 25.0 32.0 25.0 11.5 18.5 45.0 21.12.82 31.2 19.0 8.0 5.0 21.0 25.5 32.0 25%5 12.0 46.0 CHICK 2 (approximately two weeks old at first capture) 16.12.82 18.9 18.12.82 19.9 13.0 22.0 26.0 20.0 11.0 21.12.82 17.2 22.12.82 18.1 13.5 23.12.82 18.4 14.0 5.5 5.0 18.0 25.5 29.5 26.5 11.0 12.0 28.0 21.01.83 32.6 19.5 7.0 5.0 20.5 26.0 32.0 26.5 26.0 45.0 *excluding down/feathers approximately two weeks old had lost all its natal down when recaptured five weeks later. The growth of this (no. 2) and of another chick are given in Table 1. The well developed ‘thumb claws’, which on chicks are as large as those of adults, have not been commented upon before, apart from Lowe’s (1928: 116) observation that the “‘thumb is provided with a very prominent claw’’. These relatively large, exposed structures may assist the birds in climbing tussock. Chicks walked within two hours of hatching and left the nest within a day of hatching. Initially, the chicks remained in the entrance tunnel, but 28 hours after the hatching of the first chick, were led away from the nest. The chicks returned to the nest periodically during the day and remained therein overnight with one parent for the first two nights. Chicks were also brooded away from the next by the male during the day. Chicks basked in warm sunshine between feeding by adults. Four days after hatching the chicks moved up to 5m from the nest and climbed up to 1m in sloping bundles of tussock, extending their wings for balance. Chicks made exploratory pecks at the ground and vegetation soon after leaving the nest and were observed attempting unsuccessfully to catch leafhoppers seven days after hatching. Chicks were shepherded by one parent while the other foraged. Food items brought by the foraging adult were fed directly to the chicks or via the attendant adult. Chicks pecked at the parent’s bill tip even when the latter contained no food. In order of frequency, identified food items comprised centipedes, earthworms, caterpillars, moths and amphipods. Adult rails vigorously defended their chicks against Tristan Thrushes. A female rail attacked a thrush which had approached the former’s nest containing chicks. The rail repeatedly ran up to and pecked the thrush, retreating into cover between attacks. The thrush then followed the rail into dense tussock, emerging and flying off approximately one minute later. The rail then reappeared and visited its nest briefly before moving away. During this encounter the brooding male was silent and M.W. Fraser et al. 20 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) motionless. On another occasion, a thrush landing near the rail chicks was immediately rammed by the female rail and flew off. Predation None of four chicks ringed one or two days after hatching survived more than 10 days after leaving the nest. One was killed by Tristan Thrushes and circumstantial evidence suggested that thrushes also killed the remainder. The two study nests at Blenden Hall were damaged by thrushes (which removed the top third of the nests, exposing the chamber). Parent rails were vigorous in their defence of chicks against thrushes (see above). Adult rails were eaten by Subantarctic Skuas (Hagen 1952, Fraser 1984, Ryan & Moloney 1991). No other birds are known or are likely to prey upon rails at Inaccessible. Anti-predator avoidance by adult rails involved uttering alarm calls and moving quickly into dense cover when a skua flew overhead or when a thrush approached. Adult rails were observed to draw in their heads and fluff up their plumage when confronted by a thrush before or as they (the rails) rapidly took cover. On one occasion a thrush and a rail passed within 10 cm of each other but ignored one another. Conservation The Inaccessible Island Rail is abundant within its restricted range, and is under no immediate danger of extinction. Potential threats to its welfare exist, however, notably the introduction of mammalian preda- tors, none of which presently occurs on the island. Cats Felis domesticus, Black Rats Rattus rattus and House Mice Mus domesticus occur on ‘Tristan where their impact on the native biota is unquantified. Mice have been found aboard Tristan longboats bound for Nightingale Island (Richardson 1984). Rats have infested fishing vessels working around the Tristan archipelago (Richardson 1984) and can reach islands on floating refuse (Moors & Atkinson 1984). Although visits to Inaccessible Island are infrequent, each carries the risk of introducing these and other harm- ful alien organisms to the island. The stringent precautions necessary to prevent the accidental introduction of alien species appear not to be applied or to be ineffective, as demonstrated by the sighting of a rat near the South African weather station at Gough Island in 1983 (Wace 1986a,b, Watkins & Furness 1986). Some twenty species of alien plants and a number of alien invertebrates occur on Inaccessible Island (Holdgate 1965, Wace & Holdgate 1976), but none is yet known to have an adverse effect on the rail or other native fauna. Indeed some, such as centipedes, may be an important food item of rails. Collar & Stuart (1985) propose and discuss conversation measures for the Inaccessible Island Rail. These include, as a safety measure, the intro- duction of birds to Gough Island or nearby Nightingale Island, which have a similar climate and vegetation to Inaccessible. Such introductions would, however, expose these islands’ endemic invertebrate assemblages to predation and possible extinction (W.R.P. Bourne, in Collar & Stuart 1985). In addition, the rails would remain at risk from the accidental introduction of mammalian predators. We consider the establishment of captive breeding stock the most useful conservation measure. Captive M. W. Fraser et al. 21 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) birds would also facilitate scientific research and promote public aware- ness of the rail and other wildlife of the Tristan da Cunha islands. Little is known, however, of the birds’ long-term response to captivity. Rails kept as pets by Tristan islanders apparently did not live for long (N. Green). Broekhuysen & Macnae (1949) kept adult and young rails for “‘some days’’, feeding them “‘woodlice and worms’’, but all died. Elliott (1957) noted that rails ‘“‘travel well in a small cask’’. Although it is not known how long he kept the birds, they became “‘established’”’ and were fed ‘‘amphipods and isopods. ..and cranberries Empetrum’’. Past attempts at farming on Inaccessible Island have been largely short-lived and unsuccessful. Nevertheless, agricultural development of the island is still advocated as a means of supplementing the Tristan islanders’ diet (e.g. Helyer 1981). Apart from the detrimental effects on the indigenous biota of introduced crop plants and livestock such as sheep, increased traffic would seriously heighten the risk of introducing alien mammals from Tristan. The Tristan da Cunha Conservation Ordinance, 1976, provides for the protection of all but two species of bird at Inaccessible (Rockhopper Penguin Eudyptes chrysocome and Great Shearwater Puffinus gravis may be harvested there by Tristan islanders). The island does not have nature reserve status in terms of the ordinance, however. Such formal declar- ation, which should include the prohibition of agriculture, 1s highly desirable for the rail, the island’s other landbird species and its seabird colonies (Fraser et al. 1988). Inaccessible Island also merits registration as a site within the World Heritage Convention of 1972 because of its endemic fauna and because it is undisturbed and free of introduced predators, and is one of the least man-modified islands in the world. Acknowledgements M.W.F. and I.C.B. were members of the Denstone Expedition to Inaccessible, supported by the Denstone Expeditions’ Trust and led by M.K. Swales. W.R.J.D. was a member of the Third South African Expedition to Inaccessible Island and he thanks J. Cooper and P.G. Ryan for the arrangements and organisation of the trip and the South African Department of Environment Affairs for transport and logistic support under the auspices of the South African National Antarctic Research Programme. Both expeditions were endorsed by the Island Council and successive Administrators of Tristan da Cunha. For their comments on the manuscript we thank J. Cooper, L. Fraser, P.G. Ryan, W.R. Siegfried and M.K. Swales. References: Broekhuysen, G. J. & Macnae, W. 1949. Observations on the birds of the Tristan da Cunha islands and Gough island in February and early March. Ardea 37: 97-125. Collar, N. J. & Stuart, S. N. 1985. Threatened Birds of Africa and Related Islands. The ICBP/IUCN Red Data Book. Part I. 3rd ed. ICBP/IUCN, Cambridge. Dunne, J. C. 1941. Volcanology of the Tristan da Cunha Group. Res. Norwegian Sci. Exped. Tristan da Cunha, 1937—38 1(2): 1-145. Elliott, H. F. 1.1957. A contribution to the ornithology of the Tristan da Cunha group. Ibis. 99: 545-586. Fraser, M. W. 1984. Foods of subantarctic skuas on Inaccessible Island. Ostrich 55: 192-195. Fraser, M. 1989. The Inaccessible Island rail—smallest flightless bird in the world. Afr. Wildl. 43: 14-19. Fraser, M. W., Ryan, P. G. & Watkins, B. P. 1988. The seabirds of Inaccessible Island, South Atlantic Ocean. Cormorant 16: 7-33. M.R. Browning 22 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(1) Hagen, Y. 1952. The birds of Tristan da Cunha. Res. Norwegian Sci. Exped. Tristan da Cunha, 1937-1938 20: 1-248. Helyer, P. J. 1981. Tristan da Cunha, South Atlantic. Unpubl. Ms. Available from the author, Tristan Cottage, Central Lydbrook, GL7 9PP, UK. Holdgate, M. W. 1965. The fauna of the Tristan da Cunha islands. Phil Trans. Roy. Soc. Lond. B 249: 361-424. Lowe, P. R. 1928. A description of Atlantisia rogersi, the diminutive and flightless rail of Inaccessible Island (South Atlantic) with some notes on flightless rails. [bis (12)4: 99-131. Mathews, G. M. 1932. The birds of Tristan da Cunha. Novit. Zool. 38: 13-48. Moors, P. J. & Atkinson, I. A. E. 1984. Predation on seabirds by introduced animals, and factors affecting its severity. [CBP Tech. Publ. 2: 667-690. Olson, S. L. 1973. Evolution of the rails of the South Atlantic Islands (Aves: Rallidae). Smithsonian Contrib. Zool. 152: 1-53. Richardson, M. E. 1984. Aspects of the ornithology of the Tristan da Cunha group and Gough Island, 1972-1974. Cormorant 12: 123-201. Rogers, R. A. 1926. The Lonely Isle. Allen & Unwin, London. Rothschild, Lord. 1928. (Exhibited egg and skin of Flightless Rail Atlantisia rogersi from Tristan da Cunha). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 48: 121-124. Ryan, P. G. & Moloney, C. L. 1991. Prey selection and temporal variation in the diet of Subantarctic Skuas at Inaccessible island, Tristan da Cunha. Ostrich 62: 52-58. Ryan, P. G., Watkins, B. P. & Siegfried, W. R. 1989. Morphometrics, metabolic rate and body temperature of the smallest flightless bird: the Inaccessible Island Rail. Condor 91: 465-467. Siddall, C. P. 1985. Survey of Inaccessible Island, Tristan da Cunha Group. Polar Rec. 22: 528-531. Wace, N. M. 1986a. The rat problem on oceanic islands—research is needed. Oryx 20: 79-86. Wace, N. M. 1986b. Rat hunt on Gough Island. Polar Rec. 23: 85-87. Wace, N. M. & Holdgate, M.W. 1976. Man and nature in the Tristan da Cunha islands. IUCN monogr. 6: 1-114. Watkins, B. P. & Furness, R.W. 1986. Population status, breeding and conservation of the Gough Moorhen. Ostrich 57: 32-36. Addresses: M. W. Fraser, ‘“Sandbanks’’, Kenmuir Steps, Glencairn 7995, South Africa; W.R. J. Dean, FitzPatrick Institute, Univ. of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7700, South Africa; I. C. Best, Box 25200, Awali, Bahrain, Arabian Gulf. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Comments on the nomenclature and dates of publication of some taxa in Bucerotidae by M. Ralph Browning Received 5 April 1991 Modern literature on Bucerotidae contains several scientific names that are used or cited incorrectly. The most notable problem is the con- current use of two different specific names for the Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus), aspecies occurring from Kenya to northern Angola, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Specific name of the Southern Ground Hornbill Historically the Southern Ground Hornbill has been known by three specific names. Bucorvus cafer (Schlegel, 1862) was used by most early M. R. Browning 23 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) authors (e.g. Ogilvie-Grant in Ogilvie-Grant & Sclater 1892, Sclater 1924). Roberts (1926) proposed the name Bucorvus schlegeli for the species to replace cafer Schlegel, a name he believed to be preoccupied by caffer Sundevall (1851). However, because Sundevall did not use the term “‘caffer’’ asa scientific name (Gyldenstolpe 1926, Sclater 1930, Friedmann 1930), most authors (e.g. Chapin 1939, Roberts 1940) continued to use cafer. Peters (1945), on the other hand, listed the Southern Ground Hornbill as Buceros leadbeateri Vigors, 1825, a name that was infre- quently cited in the early literature (e.g. Cabanis & Heine 1859-1860, Finsch & Hartlaub 1870, Elliot 1877-1882) as a synonym of Bucorvus abyssinicus (Boddaert, 1783), the Northern Ground Hornbill, which occurs from Sierra Leone to Senegambia, Nigeria, Sudan, Kenya and Ethiopia. Sanft (1960) disagreed with Peters, again synonymized leadbeateri with abyssinicus, and used the name cafer for the southern species. The specific names cafer and leadbeateri are in concurrent use in the recent literature for the Southern Ground Hornbill. The name cafer is used by some authors (e.g. Devillers 1977, Benson & Benson 1977, Kemp & Crowe 1985, Kemp 1988a, Lewis & Pomeroy 1989, Short et al. 1990), and the name /eadbeateri by others (e.g. Clancey 1964, 1980, Kemp 1974, 1979, 1982, Kemp & Kemp 1980, Newman 1983, Irwin 1981, Maclean 1985, Vernon 1986, Wood & Schnell 1986, Tarboton et al. 1987, Williams 1988, Ginn et al. 1989). Schmid] (1982) lists the species as ‘‘cafer (=leadbeateri)’’ and Walters (1980:119) lists the species as ‘‘leadbeateri ...(=B. cafer).” A recent ornithological text book (Gill 1990) and recent issues of Zoological Record refer to the species as B. leadbeateri. The International Species Information System (ISIS), a list of species used by zoos, lists the species as leadbeater1. None of these sources comments on their reason for using either name. Because of the continuing various applications of cafer and leadbeateri, a review follows. When Peters (1945: 272) revived leadbeateri for the southern species, he commented only that the locality “‘Africa interiori Septentrionali”’ (Vigors 1825: 460) was ‘“‘almost certainly an error for ‘Meridionali’, the description applies to the South African bird.” Sanft (1960) stated (in translation) that it was evident from Vigors’ (1825) description of the colour (‘‘fusco- nigrae’’) and bill length (‘‘ad frontem 7: unc’’) that leadbeateri applies to a juvenile; because the locality included “ ““Septentrionali’’, he concluded that Vigors’ specimen was of B. abyssinicus. Immatures of both species of ground hornbills and worn females of the Southern Ground Hornbill are sooty-brown, and the bill length (197 mm) of Vigors’ specimen is within the range of adult females of both species (Kemp 1988a). Although not mentioned by Sanft (1960), Vigors (1825) described the soft parts of leadbeateri as ‘“‘regione ophthalmica guttureque nudis coccineis, caeruleo-variegatis ...’” The differences between the species of ground hornbills are summarized in Table 1. Vigors (1825) described the bill of leadbeateri as black. The bill in both species of ground hornbills is black, but there is a pale spot on the proximal end of the upper mandible in B. abyssinicus (Table 1). Kemp (1979) characterized the spot as yellow, but the spot is more reddish than yellow (C. Falzone, in litt.; colour slides on file). In old specimens the spot M. R. Browning 24 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(1) TABLE 1 Colouration of the circumorbital and gular skin and colour of the upper mandible in Bucorvus abyssinicus and the Southern Ground Hornbill! Characters Bucorvus abyssinicus Southern Ground Hornbill Skin colour immatures blue grey pale grey adults males blue, some red spots red; acquired in 3 years on throat; acquired in 1-3 years females dark blue; acquired red, sometimes violet-blue as in males patches on side of face; acquired in 6 years Upper mandible black with reddish- entirely black yellow spot ‘Sources: Kemp (1979), Kemp and Kemp (1980), Kemp zn Fry et al. (1988), C. Falzone (in litt.) is yellowish. The spot in B. abyssinicus appears as a small paler colour in chicks, becomes larger and reddish in six months, and is similar in size and colour to that of the adult in two-year-old birds that still lack the opened cylindrical casque of adults (C. Falzone, zn Iitt.). I conclude that Vigors’ (1825) description of the facial colours and colour of the upper mandible cannot apply to B. abyssinicus. Although Vigors (op. cit.) used the term ‘‘Septentrionali’’ for the locality of leadbeateri, he may have been referring to what is now the northern part of the range (e.g. Kenya) of the Southern Ground Hornbill, or he may have simply erred. I agree with Peters (1945) that regardless of the original locality, the original description of leadbeateri applies to the southern species of Bucorvus. Therefore, the Southern Ground Hornbill should be known as Bucorvus leadbeateri (Vigors, 1825), with the type locality Lower Bushman River, eastern Cape, South Africa, as restricted by Vincent (1952). Generic name for the species birostris, griseus and gingalensis Gloger (1841—42) proposed the generic name Meniceros for Buceros rhinoceros and Bonaparte (1854) used the generic name as ‘‘Meniceros, Gloger.-34. ginginianus, Lath.’’ Kemp (1979) and Kemp & Crowe (1985) adopted Meniceros Bonaparte, 1854 as the generic name for the species birostris and griseus from India and for gingalensis (now a subspecies of griseus). However, Meniceros Bonaparte does not constitute a new generic name; it is merely a new combination and does not affect authorship of the name (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature 1985, Art. 50(c) (i)). Kemp (1988b) correctly used Ocyceros Hume, 1873 (type species by subsequent designation, Buceros birostris Scopoli), as the earliest available generic name for birostris, griseus and gingalensis. M. R. Browning 25 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Correct spelling of the specific name minillae The name minillae, used for a subspecies of Penelepides panini in Peters (1945) anda full species in Kemp & Crowe (1985) from Luzon, Philippine Islands, was spelled as minillae by some authors (e.g. Sanft 1960, Kemp & Crowe 1985) but as minilloe by most authors (e.g. Peters 1945, du Pont 1971, Gonzales 1983). Kemp (1988b: 325, Figs 3 and 6) spelled the name as ‘‘minillae’’ in the figures but in the captions added ‘‘Read muinilloe instead of minillae.’’ ‘The name was originally proposed by Boddaert (1783) with the ligature as @ (=ae), not oe. Validity of Rhynchaceros Gloger, 1841 Kemp & Crowe (1985) used the name Rhynchaceros Gloger as a sub- generic name for Tockus hemprichiu, T. fasciatus, T. bradfieldi, and T. alboterminatus. Roberts (1931: 240) considered the name Rhynchaceros Gloger preoccupied. He commented only that “‘this will be discussed in another paper ...’’ and proposed Protokus as a new generic name. Peters (1945), who synonymized Protokus and Rhynchaceros Gloger, 1841 with Tokus, concluded that Roberts’ (op. cit.) comment “‘apparently”’ referred to Rhynchoceros Berthold, in Lattreille, 1825. Although not stated by Peters (op. cit.), or discussed later by Roberts, Berthold’s (7m Lattreille 1825) proposal of the name as “‘Rhychoceros’’ [sic] followed only by “T’'Tadorne]”’ does not constitute a valid name (I.C. Z. N. 1985, Art. 12(c)). Therefore, Gloger’s name must stand, with Protokus asa junior synonym. Correct dates of some original descriptions The following names were cited incorrectly by Peters (1945), Sanft (1960), or others: Buceros convexus 'Temminck, 1831. Sanft (op. cit.) gave the source as 1832 and plate 520, livraison 89 of 'Temminck’s “‘Planches coloriées.”’ The name convexus was first proposed in livraison 88, dated 1831 (Sherborn 1898). Bycanistes subquatratus Cabinis, 1881. The original description of subquatratus was in the Journal fiir Ornithologie Heft 4 for 1880, the year given by Peters and Sanft. The early Hefte of this journal were issued irregularly or distributed late (see Browning & Monroe 1991). Because Heft 3 of the Journal fiir Ornithologie appeared in December 1880 (Reichenow & Schalow 1882), it is reasonable to assume that Heft 4 would not have appeared until early in 1881. Rhinoplax Gloger, 1841 and Rhynchaceros Cage 1841. Peters (1945) gave the source for both generic names as “‘Gloger, Hand-und Hilfsb. Naturg., 1842 (1841).” The sixth part of Gloger’s work, 1.e. up to p. 476, was issued i in October 1841 (Charles W. Richmond, notes in Division of Birds, Smithsonian Institution), and the title should be abbreviated as Gemein. Handb. und Hilfsb. (Browning & Monroe 1991). Acknowledgements I thank C. Falzone, Dallas (Texas) Zoo, for her comments and colour slides on the soft part and bill colouration in Bucorvus. Appreciation is extended to K. Hastings (ISIS) for her comments on the scientific names of the Southern Ground Hornbill. I also thank C. Falzone and S.L. Olson for reading an early draft of the manuscript and R.C. Banks, who made many useful comments and suggestions for the present version. M.R. Browning 26 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) References: Benson, C. W. & Benson, F. M. 1977. The Birds of Malawi. Montfort Press, Limbe, Malawi. Boddaert, M. 1783. Tables des Plances Enluminéez ad’ Histoire Naturelle, de M. D’ Aubenton. Utrecht. Bonaparte, C. L. 1854. Conspectus Volucrum anisodactylorum. Atteneo Ital., no. 11: 1-16. [reprint] Browning, M. R. & Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1991. Corrections and clarifications to dates of publications on North American birds. Archives of Natural History 18: 381-405. Cabanis, J. & Heine, F. 1859-1860. Museum Heineanum. Pt. 2: 3-175. Halberstadt. Chapin, J. P. 1939. The birds of the Belgian Congo. Pt. 2. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 75. Clancey, P. A. 1964. The Birds of Natal and Zululand. Oliver and Boyd, Edinburgh. Clancey, P. A. (ed.) 1980. S.A.O.S. Checklist of Southern African Birds. Southern African Orn. Soc., Pretoria. Devillers, P. 1977. Project de nomenclature Frangaise des oiseaux du monde 5. Trogonidés aux Picidés. Gerfaut 67: 469-489. du Pont, J. E. 1971. Philippine Birds. Delaware Mus. Nat. Hist. Monogr. Ser. no. 2. Elliot, D. G. 1877-1882. A Monograph of the Bucerotidae, or Family of Hornbills. Privately publ., London. Finsch, O. & Hartlaub, G. 1870. Die Végel Ost- Afrikas. C.F. Winter’sche Verlagshandlung, Leipzig und Heidelberg. Friedmann, H. 1930. Birds collected by the Childs Frick Expedition to Ethiopia and Kenya Colony. Pt. 1. Non-passeres. Bull. U.S. Natl Mus. 153. Gill, F. B. 1990. Ornithology. W.H. Freeman and Co., New York. Ginn, P.J., McIlleron, W. G. & Milstein, P. le S. (eds) 1989. The Complete Book of Southern African Birds. Struik, Winchester, Cape Town. Gloger, C. W. L. 1841-1842. 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C. 1988b. The systemics and zoogeography of Oriental and Australasian hornbills (Aves: Bucerotidae). Bonn. Zool. Beitr. 39: 315-345. Kemp, A. C. & Crowe, T. M. 1985. The systematics and zoogeography of Afrotropical hornbills (Aves: Bucerotidae). Proc. Int. Symp. African Vertebr., Bonn, 1985: 279-324. Kemp, A. C. & Kemp, M. I. 1980. The biology of the Southern Ground Hornbill Bucorvus leadbeateri (Vigors) (Aves: Bucerotidae). Ann. Transvaal Mus. 32: 65-100. Latreille, P. A. 1825. Familles Naturelles du Régne Animal... J.-B. Bailliere, Paris. Lewis, A. & Pomeroy, D. 1989. A Bird Atlas of Kenya. A. A. Balkema, Rotterdam. Maclean, G. L. 1985. Roberts’ Birds of Southern Africa, 5th edn. Trustees John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town. Newman, K. 1983. Newman’s Birds of Southern Africa, updated. Southern Book Publ., Johannesburg. Ogilvie-Grant, W. R. & Sclater, W. R. 1892. Catalogue of the Birds of the British Museum. Vol. 17. British Mus. London. Peters, J. L. 1945. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 5. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Reichenow, A. & Schalow, H. 1882. Compendium der neu beshriebenen Gattungen und Arten. J. Orn. 30: 449-462. Roberts, A. 1926. Some changes in nomenclature, new records of migrants and new forms of S. African birds. Ann. Transvaal Mus. 11: 217-225. Roberts, A. 1931. Some new forms of South African birds. Ann. Transvaal Mus. 14: 237-245. L. Tomialojé 27 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(1) Roberts, A. 1940. The Birds of South Africa. H. F. and G. Witherby Ltd., Johannesburg. Sanft, K. 1960. Aves/Upupae Bucerotidae. Das Tierreich 76: 1-174. Schlegel, H. 1862. Muséum d’histoire naturelle des Pays-bas. 1: Buceros. E. J. Brill, Leiden. Schmidl, D. 1982. The Birds of the Serengeti National Park Tanzania. B.O.U. Check-list no. 5. British Ornithologists’ Union. Sclater, W. L. 1924 and 1930. Systema Avium Ethiopicarum. A systematic list of the birds of the Ethiopian region. Pt. 1 (1924), Pt. 2 (1930). British Ornithologists’ Union. Sherborn, C. D. 1898. On the dates of Temminck and Laugier’s ‘Planches coloriées.’ [bis(7) 4: 485-488. Short, L. L., Horne, J. F. M. & Muringo-gichuki, C. 1990. Annotated check-list of the birds of East Africa. Proc. West. Found. Vert. Zool. 4: 61-246. Sundevall, C. J. 1851. Foglr fran Sédra Africa. Ofv. Kongl. Vet.-Akad. Férh. 7: 96-111. Tarboton, W. R., Kemp, M. I. & Kemp, A. C. 1987. Birds of the Transvaal. Transvaal Mus., Bretoniat Vernon, C. J. 1986. The Ground Hornbill at the southern extremity of its range. Ostrich 57: 16-24. Vigors, N. A. 1825. Observations on the natural affinities that connect the orders and families of birds. Trans. Linn. Soc. London 14: 395-517. Vincent, J. 1952. A Check List of the Birds of South Africa. Cape Times Ltd., Parow, Cape Province. Walters, M. 1980. The Complete Birds of the World. David and Charles, Newton Abbot. Williams, A. J. 1988. Popular Checklist of the Birds of South West Africa] Namibia. Dept. Agriculture and Nature Conservation, South West Africa. Wood, D.S. & Schnell, G. D. 1986. Revised World Inventory of Avian Skeletal Specimens, 1986. American Orn. Union and Oklahoma Biol. Surv., Norman, OK. Address: M. Ralph Browning, Biological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C. 20560, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Colonization of dry habitats by the Song Thrush Turdus philomelos: is the type of nest material an important constraint? by Ludwik Tomialojé Received 10 April 1991 Introduction Being better adapted to nesting high in trees (when there is no bush layer), to feeding in drier places and more frequently in open areas (Siivonen 1939, Glutz & Bauer 1988, Tomialojc & Lontkowski, in prep.), the Song Thrush Turdus philomelos theoretically should cope better with life in dry, urban or Mediterranean habitats than the Blackbird T. merula. In fact, the opposite is the case, which constitutes an interesting ecological problem. It may be speculated that the reason may be either that some other constraint on its ecology outweighs the factors favourable to the Song Thrush, mentioned above, or that the Blackbird started to colonize these areas so much earlier that it has managed more thoroughly than the Song Thrush to adapt in other important (but less obvious) ways. L. Tomialojé 28 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Historical data available so far do not support the second suggestion (Cramp, 1988, Glutz & Bauer 1988). Another suggestion is that the Song ‘Thrush is out-competed by the more adaptable Blackbird (Dyrcz 1969); but this seems an unlikely explanation of the problem under consider- ation, since in rural and urban British and Czechoslovakian habitats both of them, not just the Blackbird, maintain densities much higher than elsewhere (Davies & Snow 1965, Cramp 1988, Stastny et al. 1987). This last point will be reconsidered in detail elsewhere (Tomialoj¢, in prep). In geographical terms the question is, why the Song Thrush has a very restricted breeding distribution in the Mediterranean region (and in the Eurasian forest-steppe transitional zone). ‘These areas remain outside its main breeding range, though they are regularly visited on migration or in the winter. Isolated breeding areas occur only in higher (more humid?) parts of the Spanish Cordillera Central, Pyrenees, Mont Ventoux, Appennines, Anatolian mountains and Caucasus (Glutz & Bauer 1988, Blondel 1990). This is the more surprising since the apparently more humidity-dependent Blackbird maintains dense breeding populations in the southern part of the western Palearctic. I hypothesize here that in both types of habitats, urban and Mediterranean, the Song Thrush has a problem with the construction of its peculiar nest. Under dry climatic conditions it probably cannot plaster the inner parts of its nest for a whole complex of reasons: the process of wood rotting seems to be inhibited or prevented in a dry climate, soft- timber trees are rare, old trees become scarce under fire-management regimes, and finally, wood pulp even if present may be too dry for nest plastering. The last obstacle may apply also to the use of clay, mud or dung. Material and results One of the noteworthy differences between European Song Thrush populations lies in the kind of nest material that they use. As has been described by Siivonen (1939), Bochenski (1968) and Glutz & Bauer (1988), the nest consists of two or three layers. In contrast to the analysis made by Siivonen, who concentrated on the variability in the outer-layer structure, here we focus attention on the inner-layer materials, as they are very specific in the Song Thrush in comparison with other thrushes (Bochenski 1968). The inner layer of a Song Thrush nest may be made in three different ways: type 1: exclusively of wood pulp, which directly adjoins the outer layer built of mosses, lichens, dry grasses, leaves or twigs; type 2: similar to above, but with an additional (median) layer of mud or clay under the wood pulp; type 3: no wood pulp at all, the inner layer consisting mostly or entirely of earth or dung. These three types show interesting geographical and ecological patterns of distribution. Our own data were collected in the Bialowieza National Park during studies of the breeding ecology of the Song Thrush and Blackbird populations inhabiting an undisturbed primeval forest (Tomialojc & L. Tomialojé 29 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) TABLE 1 Percentage share of the various types of Song Thrush nests in samples from different parts of central and northern Europe Type Type Type n 1 2 3 Forests of Finland (Siivonen 1939) 63? all/most ? 0 Forests of Leningrad Province (Malchevskiy & Pukinskiy 1983) 195 most a few 0 Bialoweiza primeval forests (this study) 166 94.6 5.4 0 Forests and woods of southern Poland (Bochenski 1968, and 27 /itt.) 111 63 30 6 Secondary and natural habitats in Czechoslovakia (Pikula 1970) 121 17.1 22.0 57.8 Note. Differences between the Bialowieza and Czechoslovakian samples are highly statistically significant (P< 0.001, y’ test). Lontkowski, in prep.). Other data were extracted from Z. Bochenski’s collection stored in the Department of Systematic Zoology and Evolution of Animals (Cracow), and from the Polish nest-record scheme run by T. Wesolowski, Wroclaw. These data (Table 1) show that there is a clear decrease in the proportion of type 1 nests as one proceeds from primeval forest habitats to anthropogenic habitats. This is paralleled to some extent by a geographical trend; thus in the forests of Finland type 1 occurs almost exclusively (Siivonen 1939), in central Europe the situation is diverse (see below), while in Great Britain types 2 or 3 seem to prevail, especially among the Hebridean population (Witherby et al. 1940). Table 1 requires some comments. In the Bialowieza National Park the proportion of type 2 nests may depend on habitat. They constitute 7.2% of the sample from river-side ash-alder forest (n=55), 3.9°%% from oak- hornbeam or hard-wood forest (n= 103), and 6.6% in mixed coniferous stands with some soft-wood deciduous trees (n= 15). The differences are not statistically significant, probably because the samples are too small. The total sample size from the Bialowieza National Park is much larger (403), but in earlier years the construction of nests was evaluated only by inspecting them from the outside, without crushing the nest walls. Hence it was impossible to distinguish between types 1 and 2. All these data nevertheless strongly support the conclusion that not a single nest in the sample represented type 3. It should be stressed that the Bialowieza sample comes exclusively from primeval forest, while the other samples are of mixed character, containing various proportions of nests from habitats transformed by man. There is a strong indication that wood pulp is largely used in extensive natural or semi-natural forests, while in other habitats other materials may appear. For example, in data from the Polish nest-record scheme wood-pulp nests constituted 92.5% of the forest sample (n= 1140), but only 87.4% of the sample from rural and suburban woodlands (n= 206). Moreover, among the nests without wood pulp (n= 64), includ- ing 12 nests without any plastering, the majority (83°%%) were from the L. Tomialojé 30 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) southern half of Poland, and only 11 (17%) from the northern half. Another sample from southern Poland (Bochenski 1968, and in Ilitt.), composed of nests collected in semi-natural forests and in suburban woodland in Cracow, also supports the suggestion that anthropogenic habitats contain more nests of type 3: whereas among his nests from natural habitats type 3 was represented by only 1% (n=95), ina sample of 16 nests from Cracow suburban woodland such nests constituted 30%. This makes one suspect that the Czechoslovakian data largely originate from habitats transformed by man, and indeed this is the case; 72% of them are from transformed or anthropogenic habitats (Pikula 1970). Discussion Before evaluating these differences in the use of nest materials one should try to answer the question, to what extent the local climate may influence a Song Thrush’s ability to construct a proper nest. It is well known that birds, including Song Thrushes, usually build their nests during the early morning hours (e.g. Siivonen 1939, our own observations), though this period of the day must also accommodate other competing activities such as territorial defence, singing and foraging. One may suspect that the higher humidity in the early morning is the main reason. As regards the Song Thrush, detailed observations of captive pairs (Si1ivonen 1939, Stahl 1987) have shown that the female before plastering her nest regularly soaks the material (wood pulp, in the cases observed) in water. All nests found during the construction phase either in Finland or in Poland were very wet, obviously too wet to have been softened by saliva alone (as suggested in some handbooks). Therefore one may suspect that the absence of water or morning dew in places with a dry climate may be a serious hindrance for breeding Song Thrushes. The Blackbird seems to be less dependent on the humidity of the local climate for two reasons: the ability to build some nests almost devoid of a mud-layer, and the preference for locating nests on a more solid foundation (Bochensk1 1968, ‘Tomialojc, in prep). Song Thrush nests, which are often poorly supported, sometimes almost hanging in the branches, in order to be solid enough to stand up to such situations must be plastered with soaked material, either wood pulp, mud, earth or dung. In some habitats this condition obviously cannot be fulfilled. The pattern of nest-lining distribution in Europe shows some con- formity with the advance of colonization of urban areas by the Song Thrush. It is generally acknowledged that the western European and some southern European populations of this species give evidence of much older and more advanced adaptation to urban and suburban con- ditions than the northern and eastern populations (Cramp 1988, Glutz & Bauer 1988). The British population in particular has been thriving for almost 100 years in the man-made environment which has been in the process of formation since late Neolithic times (Simms 1971, Kirby 1987). Very intensive forest management, involving the practice of coppice-with-standards, for centuries kept British woodlands poor in rotten wood; and this material was probably even scarcer in farmland. This may have forced the British population to turn to substitutes such as L. Tomialojé 31 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) earth or dung, potential materials which are usually wet under British climatic conditions. It is interesting to note that the Song Thrushes introduced in the southern hemisphere from Britain, and almost certainly taken from anthropogenic habitats, ‘brought with them’ the secondary habit of using mud, clay or dung for nest plastering. This is especially clear in Australia, where in the rather dry climate of the Melbourne area no wood pulp, only earth is used (Pizzey 1980). In New Zealand, with a more humid, oceanic climate and many introduced European trees, the use of mud seems to predominate locally (Falla et al. 1967) but wood pulp, with some earth occasionally included, is said to be the usual material (Oliver 1955). This suggests that what was, presumably, an enforced ‘preference’ was largely reversed when conditions were again suitable for reversion to the original habit. In continental Europe the colonization of urban habitats by Song Thrushes has been more recent, probably in part because of the lesser extent of green spaces and the drier local climate of cities, chiefly central European ones. Nevertheless, the species began to be reported from urban habitats during the late 19th century, originally mainly from German territories (Schuster 1904, Glutz & Bauer 1988). By 1960 this colonization had spread eastwards to reach cities of western Poland such as Szczecin and Wroclaw and, less certainly, Gdansk (Dyrcz 1963, Graczyk 1963). More recently, however, there has been a retreat from Polish and some German and British cities (Simms 1971, Tomialojc & Profus 1977, Bezzel 1982, Anon. 1984, Luniak 1990, Tomialojc 1990), which has been tentatively attributed to the increasing human impact on the urban environment, especially the elimination of the bush and ground-litter layer in parks. Eichler (1986) suggested that shortage or deterioration of the quality of available food, due to chemical pollution, might be the reason, though he was aware of the fact that the Blackbird in spite of its similar diet was continuing to increase in the same cities. Both reasons seem improbable in view of the well known ability of Song Thrushes to nest high in trees and to forage in open areas, as well as the fact that Blackbirds continue to prosper. Hence, problems with nest construction might be the main cause. In this connection a contrast between the situation in Poland and Czechoslovakia seems to be especially intriguing. It appears that while in several Czechoslovakian cities Song Thrushes are quite numerous breed- ing birds, e.g. reaching densities of 53 pairs per 10 ha in Prague parks (Bialek et al. 1980, Stastny et al. 1987), or of 8.4-11.7 pairs per 10 ha in Ostrava (Pavelka 1988), in urban parks in the Polish cities of Legnica and Wroclaw, not very distant and almost identical structurally with those in Ostrava, Song Thrush densities are below 2 pairs per 10 ha and are decreasing constantly to the point of local extinction (Tomialoj¢ 1970, Tomialojc & Profus 1977, R. Cisakowski, in prep.). It seems that food resources cannot be responsible, as Polish urban parks are known to abound with earthworms and other invertebrates (Dyrcz 1969), and Blackbird populations are dense, though less dense than in Czechoslovakia. Hence two other possibilities may be invoked: diffi- culties in nest construction, or differential predation pressure. I have no L. Tomialojé 32 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) quantitative data adequate for testing the second possibility so far, though there are some indications that the numbers or efficiency of corvid and mustelid nest-predators may be higher in Polish than in Czechoslovakian cities. There is still one difference between most Polish and Czechoslovakian territories: in the annual level of precipitation. In Polish lowlands it is mostly 450-650mm only, while in Polish mountains and in Czechoslovakia it is 650-1200 mm per year (Steinhauser 1970). Higher precipitation may influence positively both the food resources and the ability to use earth for nest plastering. From what has been said it will be apparent that Song Thrushes in urban areas, as also in farmland and intensively managed woodland, may have difficulty in collecting suitable material for lining their nests. Some populations, chiefly those living in more humid climate, have ‘solved’ this problem by using secondary types of material (earth or dung), others have not done so, while still others, in primeval or natural forests, have not been forced to change their original habit. It may be that northeastern Polish, Russian and Scandinavian populations are unable to colonize cities because they are too conservative in their use of nest-lining materials, and not necessarily because they are unable to overcome the barrier created by their shyness. It would be of interest to make a comparative study of the use of nest- lining materials by Song Thrushes in different habitats in Britain, concentrating on populations in urban areas, farmland, and the last- remaining extensive forests such as the New Forest or old oak woodland. The results could falsify the interpretation offered above. Under present conditions of wholesale deforestation and dry climate, it seems certain that Song Thrushes attempting to nest in Mediterranean lowland habitats would face similar problems to those in central European cities and parks. If my explanation is correct, then the Italian Song ‘Thrushes nesting at lower montane elevations should show a clear pref- erence for stream- or river-valley habitats, and should avoid dry south- facing slopes. It is intriguing also why this species avoids nesting 1n the anthropogenic landscape not only of Italy, but also of the northern slopes of the Alps in Switzerland (Glutz & Bauer 1988). There may of course be some other constraints, which would need careful evaluation. More generally, it may be suggested that limitations imposed by the need for special nest materials should be investigated in other species where the reasons for limits of range or breeding habitat are not immedi- ately obvious. Under urban conditions of central European cities it may be impossible for species such as the Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs or Long- tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus to find enough mosses or lichens to con- struct or camouflage their nests. It is well known that both groups of plants tend to disappear from badly polluted urban and suburban habi- tats, so that it can hardly be coincidence that birds that make extensive use of mosses and lichens in their nests show a clear decline in big cities (Tomialoj¢ & Profus 1977, Luniak 1990), while still prospering in natural forests (Tomialojc et al. 1984, Tomiualojc 1990). In the Mediterranean region, there are a number of species which do not breed although they are very common in the rest of Europe. One L. Tomialojé 33) Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) group consists of species that prefer fairly humid habitats even in more northerly areas: Prunella modularis, Acrocephalus palustris, Sylvia borin, Phylloscopus sibilatrix, P. trochilus, Regulus regulus. 'The first and last of these use a lot of moss, usually wet, for building their bulky nests. The others build their nests of dry fragments of vegetation (leaves, grasses, twigs), which under central European conditions tend to be flexible and soft if collected in the early morning when humidity is high. Perhaps even more surprising is the avoidance of Mediterranean lowland habi- tats by species tolerant of relatively dry places such as, in addition to the Song Thrush, Phylloscopus collybita, Anthus trivialis and Emberiza citrinella. I suspect that most of these species do not breed in southern European lowlands not necessarily because of high temperature, food shortage etc., but because they face unknown problems of nest construction or nest concealment, or because they would suffer too high nest mortality from a diverse array of mammalian, ground or climbing predators. To falsify this hypothesis, comparative studies of nest construction and breeding biology of central European and Mediterranean, conspecific or congeneric populations would be necessary. Acknowledgements I thank Janusz Markowski who many years ago turned my attention to the variability of the Song Thrush’s nest material, and to Jan Lontkowski who helped much with the field work. Zygmunt Bochenski’s and Tomasz Wesolowski’s nest-record data and critical comments on this paper are gratefully acknowledged, and I am also obliged to David Snow for his valuable comments and for considerably improving my English. References: Anon. 1984. Umfrage zum Riickgang von Singdrossel (Turdus philomelos) and Buchfink (Fringilla coelebs) in innenstadtischen Grtinanlagen. Orn. Mitt. 36: 252-253. Bezzel, E. 1982. Végel in der Kulturlandschaft. Eugen Ulmer Verlag. Bialek, M., Cerny, M. et al. 1980. Kvantitativni analyza ornitocenoz vybranych prazskych zelenych ploch pro hnizdni sezonu 1979. Prace Natura Semper Viva. Praha. Blondel, J. 1990. Long term studies on bird communities and populations in mainland and island mediterranean forests. Pp. 167-182 in A. Keast (ed.), Biogeography and Ecology of Forest Bird Communities. SPB Academic Publ. Bochenski, Z. 1968. Nesting of the European members of the genus Turdus Linnaeus 1758 (Aves). Acta Zool. Cracov. 13: 349-440. Cramp, S. (ed.) 1988. The Birds of the Western Palearctic. Vol. 5. Oxford Univ. Press. Davies, P. W. & Snow, D. W. 1965. Territory and food of the Song Thrush. Brit. Birds 58: 161-175. Dyrcz, A. 1963. Comparative studies on the avifauna of wood and park. Acta Orn. 7: 337-385. Dyrez, A. 1969. The ecology of the Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos Br.) and Blackbird (T. merula) during the breeding season in an area of their joint occurrence. Ekol. Pol. A, 17: 735-793. Eichler, W. 1986. Zum Rtickgang der Singdrossel (Turdus philomelos) in stadtischen Grunanlagen. Orn. Mitt. 38: 198. Falla, R. A., Sibson, R. B. & Turbott, E.G. 1967. A Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand. Riverside Press. Glutz von Blotzheim, U. N. & Bauer, K. 1988. Handbuch der Vogel Mitteleuropas. Vol. 11/2. Aula Verlag. Graczyk, R. 1963. The occurrence of Song Thrush (Turdus ericetorum Turt.) in Polish towns. Przyroda Pol. Zach. 7: 21-29. Kirby, K. J. 1987. Exploitation to integration: The changing relationship between forest management and nature conservation in Britain. Acta Oecol. 8: 219-225. M. K. Tarburton 34 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Luniak, M. 1990. Avifauna of cities in Central and Eastern Europe—results of the international inquiry. Pp. 131-149 im M. Luniak (ed.), Urban Ecological Studies. Ossolineum. Malchevskiy, A. S. & Pukinskiy, Y. B. 1983. Ptitsy Leningradskoy Oblasti 1 Sopredelnych Territori. Vol. 2. Izdat. Leningr. Univ. Oliver, W. R. B. 1955. New Zealand Birds. 2nd ed. A. H. & A. W. Reed. Pavelka, J. 1988. The breeding bird communities in the urban park of Komenskeho sady in Ostrava. Cas. Slez. Muz. Opava A 37: 267-274. Pikula, J. 1970. Die Lage und Zusammensetzung der Nester von Turdus philomelos in der CSSR. Zool. Listy 19: 163-196. Pizzey, G. 1980. A Field Guide to the Birds of Australia. Princeton Univ. Press. Schuster, L. 1904. Die Einwanderung der Singdrossel in die Stadte. Orn. Monatsschr. 29: 477-480. Siivonen, L. 1939. Zur Oekologie and Verbreitung der Singdrossel (Turdus ericetorum philomelos Brehm). Abh. Zool. Soc. Zool.-Bot. Fenn. Vanamo 7: 1—289. Simms, E. 1971. Woodland Birds. Collins. Stastny, K., Randik, A. & Hudec, K. 1987. Atlas Hnizdniho Rozsireni Ptaku v CSSR, 1973/77. Academia. Steinhauser, F. (ed.) 1970. Climatic Atlas of Europe. WMO, UNESCO. Tomialojc, L. 1970. Quantitative studies of the synanthropic avifauna of Legnica and its environs. Acta Orn. 12: 293-392. Tomialojc, L. 1990. Birds of Poland—Distribution and Abundance. PWN—Polish Scient. Publ. Tomialojc, L. & Profus, P. 1977. Comparative analysis of breeding bird communities in two parks of Wroclaw and in an adjacent Querco-Carpinetum forest. Acta Orn. 16: 117-177. Tomialojc, L., Wesolowski, T. & Walankiewicz, W. 1984. Breeding bird community of a primaeval temperate forest (Bialowieza National Park, Poland). Acta Orn. 20: 241-310. Witherby, H. F., Jourdain, F. C. R., Ticehurst, N. F. & Tucker B. W. 1940. The Handbook of British Birds. Vol. 1. H. F. & G. Witherby. Address: Dr L. Tomialojc, Natural History Museum, Wroclaw Univ., ul. Sienkiewicza 21, 50-335 Wroclaw, Poland. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Weights of some birds from Fiji by Michael K. Tarburton Received 25 April 1991 As there is a paucity of recorded body weights for birds from the South Pacific in both the literature and in museum data those recorded from mist-netting operations in Fiji are presented here along with some obtained from the National Museum of New Zealand. As workers begin to investigate topics such as flight, ecological variations, taxonomy, energetics and growth rates, the need for weights of free-living birds from the low latitudes of the South Pacific will increase. The bulk of these data were recorded on Ohaus triple beam balances between January 1974 and December 1976. The remainder were measured on Pesola spring balances. All birds were free flying adults unless otherwise stated. The island of origin and, where known, the sex of the bird are shown and apply to succeeding data until changed. ‘The major netting sites on Viti Levu were the mountain forests of Nadarivatu and the Tailevu lowlands. M.K. Tarburton 35 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) The order used is that of Walters (1980) and the nomenclature is that used by Clunie (1984). All measurements are given in grams. Sula sula RED-FOOTED BOOBY. Vatu-i-Ra: 773, 773, 893, 925, 978, 998, 998, 1010, 1041. Yabu: 915. Sula leucogaster BROWN BOOBY. Yabu: 1100, 1300, 1400, 1400, 1450. Puffinus pacificus WEDGE-TAILED SHEARWATER. Bulia: 222, M 236 (thin birds). Fregata ariel LESSER FRIGATE BIRD. Vatu-i-Ra: F 1021, 1133. Ono: M 625, F 975. Yabu: M765, F 810, 885, 990. Fregata minor GREAT FRIGATE BIRD. Yabu: M 1300, F 1100. Egretta sacra REEF HERON. Ono: 620, 695. Circus approximans PACIFIC HARRIER. Vatulele: M 515. Viti Levu: M 550. Ono: M 486. Accipiter rufitorques FIJI GOSHAWK. Ono: M 209. Gallus gallus JUNGLE FOWL. Taveuni: M 950, 1030, 1100, F 990. Vatulele: M 850, 1010, F650. Gallirallus philippensis BANDED RAIL. Ono: F 265, unsexed 225, 248, 303. Pluvialis dominica EASTERN GOLDEN PLOVER. Ono: 126. Sterna bergii CRESTED TERN. Ono: 315, 345, 350, Sterna sumatrana BLACK-NAPED TERN. Astrolab Lagoon: 105, 105, 106, 108, 108, 110, 11251025120: Anous minutus BLACK NODDY. Vatu-i-Ra: 101, 107, 114, 125, 126, 133, 134, 141, 143, 156, 166, 177. Mabulau: 97, 99, 102, 105. Immatures Vatu-i-Ra: 70, 82, 86, 87, 101, 108. Anous stolidus COMMON NODDY. Vatu-i-Ra: 198, 200, 275, 285. Columba vitiensis WHITE-THROATED PIGEON. Viti Levu: M 365, 395, 415 (no fat), F 340, 375. Vatulele: M 345, 370, 390, F 320, 340, 360. Taveuni: 305. Yadua: F 268. Phigys solitarius COLLARED LORY. Viti Levu: M 90.2, F 71.2. Ono: M 92, F 75, 82. Prosopeia tabuensis RED-BREASTED MUSK PARROT. Ono: 205, 210. Tyto alba BARN OWL. Viti Levu: M 340, 345. Bulia: F 371. Taveuni: F 360. Ono: F 340. Aerodramus spodiopygius WHITE-RUMPED SWIFTLET. Viti Levu: 8.2 +0.06 (x+s.e., n=102). Halcyon chloris COLLARED KINGFISHER. Viti Levu: 45.8, 46.9. Ono: 54, 56, 64. Hirundo tahitica PACIFIC SWALLOW. Vanua Levu: M 18, F 17, 17.5. Ono: M 17.5, F 17.5. Vatulele: M 17, 18, F 18, 18, 18, 19. Taveuni: M 18.5. Lalage maculosa POLYNESIAN TRILLER. Viti Levu: 25.5. Pycnonotus cafer RED-VENTED BULBUL. Viti Levu: 34.6, 36.4, 39.3, 39.5, 42.5. Turdus poliocephalus ISLAND THRUSH. Viti Levu: 55.4, 57.7, 61.2. Vitia ruficapilla FIJI WARBLER. Viti Levu: 9.8, 10.7, 13.6, 14.1. Mayornis lessoni SLATY FLYCATCHER. Ono: 11.0. Myiagra vanikorensis VANIKORO BROADBILL. Viti Levu: 11.7. Ono: 10.5, 12, 12.5. Myiagra azureocapilla BLUE-CRESTED BROADBILL. Viti Levu: F 11.1. Rhipidura spilodera SPOTTED FANTAIL. Viti Levu: 12.1, 12.3, 12.3. Petroica multicolor SCARLET ROBIN. Viti Levu: F 9.1. M 9.9. Clytorhynchus vitiensis FIJI SHRIKEBILL. Viti Levu: 24.8, 25.5, 26.8, 27.7. Ono: 20. Pachycephala pectoralis GOLDEN WHISTLER. Viti Levu: M 30.7, 31. F 31.4. Ono: M 24.5. F 25.5. Zosterops lateralis GREY-BREASTED WHITE-EYE. Viti Levu: 9.5, 10.3, 10.6, 11.5, Li o12:0: Ono 11.3: Foulehaio carunculata WATTLED HONEYEATER. Viti Levu: 25.2, 27.8, 29.4, 34.1, 35.9, 36.1, 36.3, 36.4, 36.8, 38, 38.7, 39.3, 39.5, 40.5, 40.8, 40.8, 41.5, 43.5, 45.4. Myzomelajugularis ORANGE-BREASTED HONEYEATER. Ono: 9. Viti Levu: 7.1, 7.4, 7.6, 8.2, 8.2, 8.5, 8.5, 8.8. Erythrura cyanovirens RED-HEADED PARROT FINCH. Viti Levu: M 10.4, 12.5, 12.8, 1278,12295 131355136. Pel 9 027 el 2235 Imm 12:8. Erythrura kleinschmidti PINK-BILLED PARROT FINCH. Viti Levu: 21.0. Estrilda amandava STRAWBERRY FINCH. Viti Levu: M 8.3 F 8.6, 8.8. Padda oryzivora JAVA SPARROW. Viti Levu: 26.6. Acridotheres tristis INDIAN MYNAH. Viti Levu: 105.3. Acridotheres fuscus JUNGLE MYNAH. Viti Levu: 74.7, 76.2, 79.2, 81, 84, 86.4, 86.6, 90.6, 91.9, 101.4. Aplonis tabuensis POLYNESIAN STARLING. Dravuni: 52. Artamus mentalis FIJI WOODSWALLOW. Vanua Levu: 41. Viti Levu: M 41, 41, 42, 45, F 40, 40, 43, 43, 45. Taveuni: M 40, F 41, 41.5, 42, 46, 48. Nananu-i-Ra: M 33. I. Robertson 36 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) It appears that Halcyon chloris is larger on Ono than on Viti Levu. It is clear that there is overlap in the weights of Fregata ariel and Fregata minor. Immature Anous minutus can often be detected by their lighter weights, though their shorter bills and smaller white caps are more reliable (Tarburton 1978). Sexual dimorphism appears in the weights of Columba vitiensis and Gallus gallus with males being the larger. The large range in the weights of Foulehaio carunculata may indicate that sexual dimorphism applies there also. Some of the species included here are also found either in neighbouring island groups or are cosmopolitan, and so comparisons can be made. The two Puffinus pacificus were much lighter than five from Tuamotu and Gambier which weighed 320-385 g and averaged 370 g (Lacan & Maugin 1974). The range of Sula sula was smaller at both ends than in 10 speci- mens from Tuamotu which ranged from 780 to 1120 g (Lacan & Maugin 1974). Six Sula leucogaster from 'Touamotu and Gambier had a similar range (1120-1600 g) to this Fijian sample. One of the reef herons from Ono was considerably heavier than a sample of 45 from ‘Tuamotu and Gambier which ranged from 345 to 625 g (Lacan & Mougin 1974). Both species of Anous also averaged heavier than those from the Tuamotu and Gambier islands. Fijian Circus approximans weights are below the range of that species in New Zealand (Fox 1977). There, males ranged from 525 to 697 g (x =609.4, n=21) and females are heavier with an average of 820.5 g (n=29, range 700-1016). Weight changes in migrants often vary more than 100% and Pluvzalis dominica is apparently no exception. The bird from Ono was taken on 14 May, only three weeks later than two birds taken in Tahiti which weighed 115 and 215 g (Lacan & Maugin 1974). References: Clunie, F. 1984. Birds of the Fiji Bush. Fiji Museum, Suva. Fox, N. C. 1977. Some morphological data on the Australasian Harrier (Circus approximans gouldz) in N.Z. Notornis 24: 9-19. Lacan, F. & Mougin, J.-L. 1974. Les oiseaux des iles Gambier et de quelques atolls orientaux de |’archipel des Tuamotu (Ocean Pacifique). Ozseau 44: 191-280. ‘Tarburton, M. K. 1978. Some recent observations on seabirds breeding in Fiji. Notornis 25: 303-316. Walters, M. The Complete Birds of the World. Reed, Sydney. Address: Keilor Adventist High School, P.O. Box 488, St. Albans, VIC 3021, Australia. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 New Information on Birds in Cameroon by Iain Robertson Received 27 April 1991 In the course of two visits to Cameroon in March—April 1990 and again in December 1990—January 1991, observations were made which represent extensions to the known range of a number of species, and data were I. Robertson 37 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) collected which alter the known status of others, and these are presented here. Seven species were recorded apparently for the first time in Cameroon. All co-ordinates are taken from Louette (1981) except those in square brackets which are my own. References to Louette are all from that same source. The sequence and nomenclature of species are based on Brown et al. (1982), Urban et al. (1986) and Fry et al. (1988) for the non-passerines and Hall & Moreau (1970) for the passerines. PINK-BACKED PELICAN Pelecanus rufescens Two at Waza National Park (11°25'N, 13°34’E) on 24 Mar 1990. There are few dry season records for the northern part of Cameroon. BLACK STORK Ciconia nigra A single adult in Waza National Park on 20 Dec 1990. Louette gives no records for Cameroon but mentions a record for Nigeria near Lake Chad. Although mapped for northern Cameroon in Brown et al. (1982), this appears to be the first record for Cameroon. ABDIM’S STORK Ciconia abdimii One at Benue National Park (08°05’N, 13°55’E) 24 Mar 1990, two Ngaoundaba (07°04’N, 14°00’E) 27 Mar 1990, 20 near Ndop (06°00'N, 10°25’E) 6 Apr 1990. Up to 50 seen daily in Waza National Park 20-21 Dec 1990. There appear to be few dry season records of this species in the northern part of Cameroon. YELLOW-BILLED DUCK Anas undulata Two at a lake near Ngaoundere (07°19’N, 13°35’E) on 25 Dec 1990. The only previous record is of one specimen from the Vina River (07°08’N, 13°50’E) (Monard 1951, cited by Louette). This record is erroneously mapped for northeastern Nigeria in Brown et al. (1982). The proximity of the two sites and presence of suitable breeding habitat in the area suggest that this species may be resident in small numbers. There is only one other record for West Africa, from the Mambilla Plateau (07°30'N, 11°35’E), Nigeria (Fry 1986). PINTAIL Anas acuta Up to 50 seen in Waza National Park 20-21 Dec 1990. Louette states that this species is regular at Lake Chad but gives no records from further south. SHOVELER Anas clypeata ‘Two observed in Waza National Park 20-21 Dec 1990. Louette gives no records for Cameroon but states that it must occur. This record appears to be the first for Cameroon. BAT HAWK Macheirhamphus alcinus One at Benue National Park 26 Mar 1990 and at the same locality on 23 Dec 1990. Louette states that the species is recorded mainly from the forest but gives a record from Koum on the Benue Plain. EGYPTIAN VULTURE Neophron percnopterus Three seen in Waza National Park 24 Mar 1990. Up to four seen daily in Waza National Park 20-21 Dec 1990. Louette states that the species is present in Cameroon south of Lake Chad but that it is probably rare. Both I. Robertson 38 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) adult and immature birds were seen on both visits to Waza and the species might well be found to breed at Waza Rock. SHORT-TOED EAGLE Circaetus gallicus Four on 20 Dec and a single on 21 Dec 1990 in Waza National Park. Thiollay (1978) considered this to be the commonest Circaetus species in the dry season. BROWN SNAKE EAGLE Circaetus cinereus An immature bird on 21 Dec 1990 in Waza National Park. Louette states that there are few observations for Cameroon. SMALLER BANDED SNAKE EAGLE Circaetus cinereus Singles at Benue National Park 26 Mar and 24 Dec 1990. Louette states that there are few detailed records for Cameroon. PALLID HARRIER Circus macrourus A male at Waza on 23 Mar 1990 and a male near Mora (11°03’N, 14°09’E) on 22 Dec 1990 were the only records. Louette states that this species is common during the dry season in the savanna. MONTAGU’S HARRIER Circus pygargus The commonest harrier in the north with 10-12 birds seen between Maroua (10°36'N, 14°20’E) and Waza and in Waza National Park 21—22 Mar 1990, and one on the Adamawa Plateau near Ngaoundere 29 Mar 1990. Up to 15 birds seen daily in Waza National Park 20-21 Dec 1990, and one or two birds seen daily on Benue Plain and Adamawa Plateau 23-28 Dec 1990. Louette states that the species is seldom mentioned from Cameroon and is probably overlooked. Thiollay (1978), cited by Louette, observed many in the Northern region. MARSH HARRIER Circus aeruginosus One in Waza National Park on 24 Mar 1990, singles at Ngaoundaba on 27-29 Mar 1990 and two near Ngaoundéré on 29 Mar 1990. Three single birds seen in the Bamenda Highlands 17—18 Dec 1990, singles at Waza Park on 21 Dec 1990 and two near Garoua (09°18’N, 13°24’E) on 23 Dec 1990, four at Ngaoundere 25 December 1990, one or two daily at Ngaoundaba 25-28 Dec 1990 and singles near Buea (04°09’N, 09°14’E) on 1 Jan 1991 and Limbe (04°01'N, 09°12’E) 2 Jan 1991. Louette states that the species has been observed “‘now and then’”’. From our observations the species is apparently regular over a wide area of Cameroon. LIZARD BUZZARD K aupifalco monogrammicus One near Mora on 22 Mar 1990. This record is considerably further north than the northernmost record given by Louette at Koum (08°23'N, 14°31’E), Benue Plain. WAHLBERG’S EAGLE Aquila wahlbergi One seen in Waza National Park 23 Mar 1990. Two seen at Waza on 20 Dec 1990, a single between Garoua and Benue on 23 Dec 1990, two between Benue and Ngaoundéré on 25 Dec 1990 and a single at Ngaoundaba on 26 Dec 1990. Louette states that this species is not much recorded in Cameroon. I. Robertson 39 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) AFRICAN HAWK EAGLE Heraaetus spilogaster Singles in Waza National Park 20 Dec 1990 and Benue National Park 24 Dec 1990. Louette states that this is a rare or overlooked species in West Africa. Thiollay (1978) only recorded the species twice in northern Cameroon. BOOTED EAGLE Hieraateus pennatus Singles in Waza Park on 20-21 Dec 1990 and between Waza and Garoua on 22 Dec 1990. This species was first recorded in Cameroon by Thiollay (1978) in the Northern region. There appear to be few documented records. LESSER KESTREL Falco naumanni A male between Makolo and Mora on 22 Mar 1990. Although mapped as occurring in most of Cameroon in Brown et al. (1982), in fact this appears to be the second record for Cameroon, the first being at Ngaoundéré on 7 Sep 1985 (Wilson 1989). RED-FOOTED FALCON Falco vespertinus A migrating flock of c.300 between Ndop and Kumbo (06°12’N, 10°40’E) on 6 Apr 1990. Louette states that this species is noted in some years, mostly in April. HOBBY Falco subbuteo A single at Bali Safari Lodge, Bamenda (05°56’N, 10°10’E) on 5 Apr 1990. (F. cuvieri also present at this site). Louette gives only one documented record for Cameroon. PEREGRINE Falco peregrinus A pair of P.p.minor on territory, calling and seen to copulate, above the tree-line on the Buea track, Mount Cameroon, 1 Jan 1991. The status of this species does not appear to be well known in Cameroon. BARBARY FALCON Falco pelegrinoides An adult photographed and observed at very close range in Waza National Park on 20 Dec 1990. Louette gives no records of this species for Cameroon. This observation appears to be the first documented record. LESSER JACANA Microparra capensis One seen near Ngaoundéré on 25 Dec 1990 (M. Van Beirs and R. Allison, pers. comm). Louette gives only two records for Cameroon, both in the Northern region. WHITE-FRONTED SAND PLOVER Charadrius marginatus Two on Benue River near Garoua on 23 Dec 1990. Louette mentions one specimen from the Benue Plain. SPOTTED REDSHANK Tinga erythropus ‘Twenty in Waza National Park on 20 Dec 1990, and one the following day. According to Louette there are few records, all from northern Cameroon. CHESTNUT-BELLIED SANDGROUSE Pterocles exustus The commonest sandgrouse in Waza National Park; up to 200 seen 23-24 Mar 1990 and up to 150 seen daily 20—22 Dec 1990. Louette gives I. Robertson 40 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) no records for Cameroon but states that this species occurs near Lake Chad in Nigeria. These records appear to be the first for Cameroon. TURTLE DOVE Streptopelia turtur Up to 500 present in Waza National Park 23—24 Mar 1990 and up to 100 seen daily 20-22 Dec 1990. The species was probably much more abundant than these numbers suggest. There appear to be few documented records. ADAMAWA TURTLE DOVE Streptopelia hypopyrrha Six birds at an altitude of 350m in Benue National Park on 24 Dec 1990. The birds were heard calling from gallery forest and watched drink- ing at the river’s edge. Although recorded by other authors (cited by Louette) from the north of the country and the Adamawa Plateau, Louette himself failed to find this species in Cameroon and despite careful searching we failed to locate the species in March. Urban et al. (1986) give December as the laying period in Nigeria, and I suspect that the birds at Benue may also breed at that time but move away from the area by March. EUROPEAN CUCKOO Cuculus canorus One near Limbe on 30 Dec 1990. Louette states that there are few data for Cameroon. NIGHTJAR sp. Caprimulgus sp. A small nightjar picked up in a water-logged state on a track at Bafut- Nguemba Forest Reserve (Bamenda) on 9 Apr 1990, and later released, has not yet been identified despite measurements and a series of photo- graphs taken in the hand. It lacked any wing or tail spots, any obvious collar or other conspicuous plumage features. The wing length was 147 mm. This bird may prove to be an undescribed species. SWALLOW-TAILED BEE-EATER Verops hirundineus A single at Benue National Park on 26 Mar 1990. Louette gives no records for Cameroon but states that it will probably be found there. Fry et al. (1988) map this species for northern Cameroon, but this appears to be the first documented record. PREUSS’S CLIFF SWALLOW Hirundo preussi Up to 12 birds seen Benue National Park 26—27 Mar 1990 and up to 20 there 24—25 Dec 1990, and a single immature at Ndop on 6. Apr 1990. ‘There appear to be few documented records. TAWNY PIPIT Anthus campestris One 22 km south of Waza on 22 Mar 1990. Louette adds nothing to Good’s (1953) statement that the species is ‘“‘possible in Cameroon’’. This appears to be the first record. LONG-BILLED PIPIT Anthus similis One seen at close range in typical rocky habitat at Ngaoundaba 26 Dec 1990. Louette mentions the race A.s.bannermani as occurring at Bamenda, Mount Mananguba and near Yaounde. RED-THROATED PIPIT Anthus cervinus Three near Makolo 22 Mar 1990, 10 in Waza National Park 24 Mar 1990. Louette mentions only two observations and one specimen of this species for Cameroon. I. Robertson 41 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(1) WOODCHAT SHRIKE Lanius senator Three between Makolo and Waza on 22 Mar 1990, up to six daily in Waza National Park 23-24 Mar 1990, one near Maroua 25 Mar 1990. Two or three daily in Waza National Park 20-21 Dec 1990 and one near Makolo 22 Dec 1990. Louette gives few records of this species for Cameroon. MASKED SHRIKE Lanius nubicus Single birds at Waza National Park on 23 Mar 1990 and between Waza and Maroua on 25 Mar 1990. Two at Waza on 21 Dec 1990. Louette mentions only one specimen and one observation for Cameroon. BLUE ROCK THRUSH Monticola solitaria One at Waza 20-21 Dec 1990. Louette mentions records by De Greling (1972) for Waza and states that the species may be regular there. ICTERINE WARBLER Hippolais icterina One at Bali (Bamenda) on 6 Apr 1990. There appear to be only two previous records from Cameroon. BLACKCAP Sylvia atricapilla One at Ngaoundaba on 28 Mar 1990, and one at Bali (Bamenda) on 17 Dec 1990. Louette gives a record from Yagoua as the only record for Cameroon. FAN-TAILED WARBLER Schoenicola platyura One at Bali (Bamenda) on 6 Apr 1990. Louette states that this species is known from only a few localities in Cameroon including Bamenda. BAMENDA APALIS A palis bamendae Three at Ngaoundaba on Adamawa Plateau on 28 Mar 1990. This locality is c. 30 km from Louette’s site at Tello. GOLDEN-BREASTED BUNTING Emberiza flaviventris At least two birds seen 20 km south of Waza on 22 Dec 1990. Louette gives only two previous records for Cameroon at Gagadje and Garoua. WATTLED STARLING Creatophora cinerea A party of six birds at Ngaoundaba on 29 Mar 1990, and a maximum of nine birds at the same locality 25-27 Dec 1990. This species is not listed by Louette, and Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1970-73) give only eastern Central African Republic and northeastern and eastern Congo (now Zaire) as the range in West Africa. The records from Ngaoundaba represent a range extension of nearly 2000 km. Acknowledgements My visits to Cameroon were made whilst preparing and leading tours for Birdquest Ltd. I wish to thank my companions in the field; N. Borrow and R. Demey who accompanied me in March-April and who also commented on this manuscript, and M. Van Beirs who accompanied me in December—January. P. Colston assisted with attempts to identify the nightjar at the British Museum (Natural History) and M. Louette also examined slides of this bird at Koninklijk Museum voor Midden-Afrika, Tervuren. References: Brown, L. H., Urban, E. K. & Newman, K. 1982. The Birds of Africa. Vol 1. Academic Press. De Greling, C. 1972. New records from northern Cameroon. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 92: 24-27. S.N.G. Howell & S. Webb 42 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Fry, C. H. 1986. First Yellow-billed Duck record for Nigeria. Malimbus 8: 43. Fry, C. H., Keith, S. & Urban, E. K. 1988. The Birds of Africa. Vol 3. Academic Press. Good, A. I. 1952-53. The birds of French Cameroon. Mém. Inst. frang. Afr. noire, Sér. Sci. nat. 2, 3. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. 'Trustees of the British Museum (Natural History), London. Louette, M. 1981. The Birds of Cameroon. An Annotated Check-list. Verhandelingen K. Acad. Wet. Let. Sch. K. Belgié, Kl. Wet. 43(163). Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1970-1973. Birds of West Central and Western Africa. 2 Vols. Longman. Monard, A. 1951. Oiseaux. Jn: Résultats de la Mission Zoologique Suisse au Cameroun. Mem. Inst. franc. Afr. noire, Sér. Sct. nat. 1: 59-122. Thiollay, J. M. 1978. Les plaines du Nord Cameroun. Centre d’hivernage de rapaces paléartiques. Alauda 46: 314-326. Urban, E. K., Fry, C. H. & Keith, S. 1986. The Birds of Africa. Vol 2. Academic Press. Wilson, J. D. 1989. Range extensions of some bird species of Cameroon. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 109: 110-115. Address: Jain Robertson, 1 Central Avenue, Clitheroe, Lancashire BB7 2PZ, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 New and noteworthy bird records from Guatemala and Honduras by Steve N. G. Howell & Sophie Webb Received 30 April 1991 As with many areas of Central America, much remains to be learned about the occurrence and distribution of birds in Guatemala and Honduras. These countries have been visited infrequently by ornithologists in the past 25 years and consequently little recent data exists about their avifauna. This paper is based on a total of eight weeks of field work in Guatemala during May and June 1988 (Howell & Webb) and February and March 1991 (Howell), and four weeks in Honduras in June 1988 (Howell & Webb) and March 1991 (Howell). The following list represents signifi- cant information concerning 40 species and one hybrid, including three species new to the Guatemalan avifauna and two new to Honduras. We also update status information for certain species, the most recent information for many of which is otherwise that given by Monroe (1968) for Honduras, and Land (1970) for Guatemala. FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCK Dendrocygna bicolor Honduras: at Lake Yojoa, Dpto. Cortés, 12—15 birds on 28 May, and 70 birds on 30 May 1988. While the species is known to breed at Lake Yojoa, the highest number recorded there in the past was 30 birds (Monroe 1968). MASKED DUCK Oxyura dominicensis Honduras: this shy and little-known duck has been reported rarely from Honduras (Monroe 1968) and is not known to breed in the country. S.N.G. Howell & S. Webb 43 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) At Lake Yojoa, we observed 43.9, 399, on 28 May 1988, and 63.4, 429, on 30 May 1988. Monroe (1968) saw Masked Ducks at Lake Yojoa in Feb 1963 and Apr 1964 and this, together with our 1988 records, suggests the presence there of a resident breeding population. WHITE-TAILED KITE Elanus leucurus Honduras: one on Isla Utila, Dpto. Islas de la Bahia, on 5 Mar 1991, is the first record of the species from the Bay Islands and probably represents a wandering individual from the mainland. DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE Harpagus bidentatus Guatemala: at Cerro San Gil, Dpto. Izabal, at least 13-14 birds (including six pairs) seen, Feb-Mar 1991. Honduras: one at Lancetilla, Dpto. Atlantida, 12 Mar 1991. Although this species has been considered rare in northern Central America (Land 1970, Monroe 1968) it is often one of the commoner rain forest raptors and much of its ‘rarity’ may be attributable to field identification problems. Remarkably, the Lancetilla observation above appears to be only the second Honduran record (cf. Monroe 1968). GREY HAWK Buteo nitidus Honduras: on the Bay Islands, Dpto. Islas de la Bahia, this species was common and conspicuous on Isla Roata and at least 4-5 adults, including a territorial pair, were seen on Isla Guanaja. Bond’s (1936) sight reports of Grey Hawk from Guanaja were considered doubtful by Monroe (1968) but my observations confirm the species’ presence there, apparently as a common breeding resident. Surprisingly, on neither Roatan nor Guanaja did I find the usually conspicuous Roadside Hawk B. magnirostris, a species reported from both islands (Bond 1936, Monroe 1968). The dynamics of insular hawk populations on the Honduras Bay Islands might repay study. In this context, we note here that no Common Black Hawks Buteogallus anthracinus were seen on Utila where they were reported as ‘“‘“very common” (Monroe 1968), but the species was common on Guanaja (‘“‘decidedly uncommon’’, Monroe 1968). SHORT-TAILED HAWK Buteo brachyurus Guatemala: Land (1970) mentioned only one old record from “Coban” (Salvin & Godman 1900: 72), but recent observers have pro- vided records for other areas of the country, mainly the arid interior (Wendelken & Martin 1986) and the Pacific versant (Vannini 1989). In Feb—Mar 1991, in the vicinity of Puerto Santo Tomas, Dpto. Izabal, I saw at least nine Short-tailed Hawks (5 light morph, 4 dark morph), including three pairs, indicating that the species is a common resident there. BLACK-AND-WHITE HAWE-EAGLE Spizastur melanoleucus Guatemala: singles at Tikal, Dpto. Petén, on 10 and 11 Feb 1991, and at Cerro San Gilon 18 Feb and 2 Mar 1991. Honduras: at Lancetilla, the head of a Black-and-white Hawk-eagle was noted hanging from the rear view mirror ina truck belonging to one of the workers. The bird had been killed by a youth “‘for fun”’ about a year before in forest 10 km west of Lancetilla, and had since been acquired by the truck driver. This striking S.N.G. Howell S S. Webb 44 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) species is generally considered rare throughout Central America (Land 1970, Monroe 1968, Ridgely & Gwynne 1989, Stiles & Skutch 1989) and is a candidate for the ICBP Red Data Book for the Americas (N. J. Collar). HORNED GUAN Oreophasis derbianus Guatemala: in May 1988 one was shot by a local hunter at about 2500 m elevation in the Sierra de Las Minas, about 20 km NW of Rio Hondo, Dpto. Zacapa (J. Bucklin and B. Rimar); the hunter reported the species to be quite common in this remote area. We examined the remains and deposited a photograph of a rectrix and primary at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. The Horned Guan is one of the world’s most endangered cracids and is known, at least historically, from only 24 localities in Guatemala and adjacent Chiapas, Mexico (Andrle 1967). Its unexpected presence in the Sierra de las Minas represents a range extension of 110 km NNE from Volcan de Fuego, and 115 km ENE from the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes. GREY-BREASTED CRAKE Laterallus exillis Guatemala: at least 4-5 birds in marshy cattle pasture at Finca El Higuerito, Dpto. Izabal, on 22—23 Feb 1991 represent the first Guatemalan record of this poorly known species. On the latter date, two birds were tape-recorded and one watched (at ranges down to 1.5m) feeding and calling for 30 minutes. Grey-breasted Crakes have been recorded from Belize (Russell 1966) and Honduras (Monroe 1968), although known from the latter country only by an 1887 specimen. RUFOUS-NECKED WOOD-RAIL Aramides axillaris Honduras: one in mangroves at the east end of of Isla Roatan, 7 Mar 1991, is the first record from the island. The species is otherwise known in Honduras only from Isla Guanaja (Bond 1936) and from the Pacific coast (Monroe 1968). UNIFORM CRAKE Amaurolimnas concolor Honduras: one at Lancetilla, 1 Jun, and two others there, 3 Jun 1988. In 1991, Howell watched one bird, and heard another, at Lancetilla (ina different area from the 1988 sightings) on 11 and 13 Mar. These obser- vations suggest that Uniform Crakes are fairly common at. Lancetilla. ‘There are only two previous Honduran records (Monroe 1968). SNOWY PLOVER Charadrius alexandrinus Guatemala: one at Tikal on 1 Apr 1991 was probably a migrant forced down by the prevailing rain and overcast conditions. The only prior report of this species for Guatemala is from the Pacific coast in Apr 1973 (Dickerman 1975). Honduras: we found an alternate-plumage Snowy Plover in flooded fields between El Progreso and San Pedro Sula, Dpto. Cortes, on 31 May 1988. The few previous Honduran records (Brown & Monroe 1974, Monroe 1968) were all between Sep and Feb, and our May record is unusually late for a migrant in Central America. HUDSONIAN GODWIT Limosa haemastica Guatemala: at the shrimp ponds 10 km east of Tilapa, Dpto. San Marcos, we saw 34 and 22 Hudsonian Godwits on 17 May 1988. The only S.N.G. Howell & S. Webb 45 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) previous Guatemalan records are for April, in 1973 and 1974 (Dickerman 1975). WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER Calidris fuscicollis Honduras: three in flooded fields between El Progreso and San Pedro Sula, 31 May 1988. The species is otherwise known from Honduras by two Apr records (Monroe 1968). BAIRD’S SANDPIPER Calidris bairdit Guatemala: 6~7 at the shrimp ponds 10 km east of 'Tilapa on 17 May 1988. Previously reported from Guatemala only in Apr 1976 (Dickerman 1977). Honduras: one in flooded fields between El] Progreso and San Pedro Sula, 31 May 1988, appears to represent the first Honduran record (cf. Monroe 1968, A.O.U. 1983). The bird was studied for 15 minutes and compared directly to White-rumped, Least (C. minutilla), and Pectoral (C. melanotus) sandpipers. WILSON’S PHALAROPE Phalaropus tricolor Guatemala: 25 birds at the shrimp ponds 10km east of Tilapa, 17 May 1988, appear to constitute only the third Guatemalan record (Beavers et al. 1991, Salvin & Godman 1903: 395). Lack of observers rather than of birds, however, is largely the reason for the paucity of shorebird records in much of Central America. FORSTER’S TERN Sterna forsteri Honduras: a basic-plumage bird at Isla Utila, 5 Mar 1991, is the first record for the Bay Islands. Honduras is at the southern limit of this species’ Atlantic coast winter range (A.O.U. 1983) and there is only one prior report for the country (Monroe 1968). CARIBBEAN DOVE Leptotila jamaicensis Honduras: at least four birds calling in dense mangrove-scrub wood- land at the east end of Isla Roatan constitute the first record for the island. The species is otherwise known in Honduras only from Barbareta Island and Little Hog Island (Monroe 1968). RED-LORED PARROT Amazona autumnalis Honduras: only five individuals were seen in two days spent covering most of the island of Roatan; the species was formerly described as ‘‘very common” there (Monroe 1968). None was seen on Isla Utila, where Bond (1936) found the species common. Monroe (1968), however, also failed to find Red-lored Parrots on Utila in 1963, and none of the locals spoken with knew of wild parrots on the island. As with the following species, capture of birds for the cage-bird trade is reducing the wild population on Roatan, and may have helped extirpate the species from Utila. YELLOW-NAPED PARROT Amazona auropalliata Honduras: on Island Roatan only two birds (a pair) were seen in two days, but locals reported the species to be ‘“commoner’”’ on the forested ridges at the easternmost, and least accessible, part of the island. Monroe (1968) considered the species ‘‘fairly common to common”’ on the Bay Islands but capture for the cage-bird trade appears to be seriously affect- ing the population on Roatan (Yellow-naped Parrots still seemed fairly S.N.G. Howell & S. Webb 46 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) common on Guanaja in Mar 1991). Most locals spoken with on Roatan captured birds themselves or knew of people who did, and all agreed there were far fewer parrots now than in the past. Careful questioning revealed that only two types of parrots were recognised (Red-lored and Yellow-naped); consequently the only specimen of Yellow-lored Parrot A. xantholora from Roatan, and thus from Honduras (Monroe 1968), remains an enigma. BLACK-AND-WHITE OWL Ciccaba nigrolineata Honduras: Three seen (apparently two males courting a female) at Lancetilla on 8 Jun 1988, and singles heard there on 3 Jun 1988 and 14 Mar 1991. Previously known from Honduras only by an 1891 specimen (Monroe 1968). Greatly increased hours afield at night in the past ten years have shown this species to be fairly common, at least locally, in southeastern Mexico and Guatemala (R. A. Behrstock, Howell), and such will probably prove to be the case in Honduras. SHORT-TAILED NIGHTHAWK Lurocalis semitorquatus Guatemala: one at dusk over the forest canopy at the Biotopo Chocon Machaca, El Golfete, Dpto. Izabal, on 20 Feb 1991, is the first Guatemalan record, although a Short-tailed Nighthawk was seen along the Mexican side of the Rio Usumacinta in Feb 1989 (Howell 1989). Honduras: at least two birds at Lancetilla on 5 Jun 1988, and one on 8 Jun 1988, represent the first occurrence of this species north of north- eastern Nicaragua (A.O.U. 1983). Howell is familiar with this distinctive bird from Costa Rica and Panama, and on 5 Jun the birds were calling, ruling out the possibility of one of the related forms (species?) from South America. Previously, Howell (1989) had wondered about the possibility of the Mexican bird being an austral migrant, L. (s?) natterer1, from South America, but the lack of records of that form from southern Central America, the time of year, and the subsequent Guatemala record, support the idea of a resident population in the Atlantic slope rain forests north to eastern Chiapas, Mexico. BLACK SWIFT Cypseloides niger Honduras: a pair chasing and calling low over the pass at Parque Nacional La Tigra, Distrito Central, 29 May 1988, constitutes only the third Honduran record (cf. Monroe 1968). BROWN VIOLET-EAR Colibri delphinae Guatemala: at least two singing and 1—2 others seen at 900 m elevation on Cerro San Gil, 24-27 Feb 1991. Previously known in Guatemala only from the vicinity of Coban, Dpto. Alta Verapaz, and not found in the country since 1928 (Griscom 1932, Salvin & Godman 1892: 283). This species appears to be genuinely uncommon and local in northern Central America. HONDURAN EMERALD Amazilia luciae Honduras: the rediscovery of this Honduran endemic, in Jun 1988, has been reported elsewhere (Howell & Webb 1989). As so little is known of the species, however, it is worth noting that on 16 Mar 1991 Howell counted 22—28 Honduran Emeralds in 500 x 50 m of thorn forest (part of S.N.G. Howell & S. Webb 47 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) a larger tract) 4.5 km west of Olanchito, Dpto. Yoro. While the species appears to be common in its restricted range and habitat, in 1991 a newly- paved road had opened up the area and much of the valley floor continued to be converted into pineapple plantations. We express concern that sufficient habitat should be preserved to guarantee the Honduran Emerald’s survival. SPARKLING-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD T%/matura dupontit Honduras: at Lancetilla, near sea level, 12 on 2 Jun, and 1 immature J, 12, on 6 Jun 1988. Elsewhere in Central America this species has only been found in the highlands (Land 1970, Monroe 1968, Thurber et al. 1987), rarely ranging down to 400 m elevation (Monroe 1968). Its pres- ence at Lancetilla coincided with an extensive bloom of Inga trees which attracted at least 14 species of hummingbirds, including Brown Violet- Ear and Black-crested Coquette Lophornis helenae, two other species usually associated with foothills. KEEL-BILLED MOTMOT Electron carinatum Guatemala: at 200—700 m elevation on Cerro San Gil, Howell noted and tape-recorded at least 6-8 birds, most calling, 18-28 Feb 1991. On 27 Feb, three were seen perched together, apparently two males courting a female, and the following day one bird was seen near a probable nest burrow. Honduras: at Lancetilla, in similar foothill forest to Guatemala, one seen and 3-4 heard, 1—5 Jun 1988, and two seen, plus 5—6 others heard, 12-17 Mar 1991. Traditionally this species has been considered very rare; there is only one other Guatemalan record this century (Smith 1966). In the last few years, however, Keel-billed Motmots have also been found to be locally common in southern Belize (B. & C. Miller, per ICBP 1989). The common call, aloud, ringing, nasal ohhng, is very similar to that of the closely-related Broad-billed Motmot E. platyrhynchum, and this may help explain why Keel-billed Motmots have been overlooked where the two species are sympatric in Central America. In addition, like most motmots, the Keel-billed spends much time perched quietly and motion- less, and its preference for the mid to upper levels of forest canopy contributes to the problems of observing the species. LADDER-BACKED WOODPECKER Picoides scalaris Guatemala: a male was carefully observed in pine-oak woodland at 1800 m elevation on the hills south of Magdalena Milpas Altas, Dpto. Sacatepequez, on 30 Dec 1990 (T. Fenske). This represents the first record for Guatemala. In Honduras, the Ladder-backed Woodpecker is an uncommon and local resident of pine-oak associations in the interior highlands (Monroe 1968) and further work may show this to be its status in Guatemala. SCALED ANTPITTA Grallaria guatimalensis Guatemala: one seen at Cerro San Gil, 27 Feb 1991, is the first record for Dpto. Izabal. GREENISH ELAENIA M yiopagis viridicata Honduras: two birds associating closely with one another on Isla Utila, 5 Mar 1991, constitute the first record for the Bay Islands. This inconspicuous species is not known to be migratory and may be an overlooked breeding resident on Utila. S.N.G. Howell & S. Webb 48 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) SPECKLED MOURNER Laniocera rufescens Guatemala: one heard at Cerro San Gil, 19 Feb 1991. Previously known from Guatemala by three old trade skins from unknown localities (Salvin & Godman 1891: 130). Honduras: at Lancetilla, two seen and another heard, 3 Jun 1988, and singles seen on 12 and 14 Mar 1991. Otherwise known from Honduras by the four specimens reported by Monroe (1968). HOUSE WREN Tvoglodytes aedon Honduras: an individual of one of the southern forms (musculus group) seen on Isla Utila, 6 Mar 1991. First record for the Bay Islands, presumably a vagrant from the mainland. TROPICAL MOCKINGBIRD Mimus gilvus Honduras: one on Isla Utila, 5 Mar 1991. First record for the Bay Islands, presumably a vagrant from the mainland. BREWSTER’S WARBLER Vermivora pinus x V. chrysoptera Guatemala: one (apparently a ¢) on Cerro San Gil, 2 Mar 1991, represents the first Guatemalan record of this distinctive hybrid. The only other published Central American occurrences are from Costa Rica (Stiles & Skutch 1989) and Panama (Ridgely & Gwynne 1989). GOLDEN-CHEEKED WARBLER Dendroica chrysoparia Guatemala: R. A. Barnhill and Howell observed a male in humid evergreen forest at 900 m elevation on Cerro San Gil, 24 Feb 1991. The bird was part of a mixed-species feeding flock that included 2-3 Black- throated Green Warblers D. virens, and was studied for ten minutes at ranges down to 15m. First record for Dpto. Izabal. PRAIRIE WARBLER Dendroica discolor Honduras: 2-339, 19, on Isla Roatan, 7-8 Mar 1991, and 2g, 299, on Isla Guanaja, 9 Mar 1991, suggest this species is a fairly common winter visitor to the Bay Islands. Monroe (1968) considered the species rare and listed only three prior records for Honduras, the most recent in 1887. WHITE-VENTED EUPHONIA Euphonia minuta Guatemala: at least 394, 399 near Santo Tomas, 16 Mar 1991, 1-234, 19, near Las Escobas, Dpto. Izabal, on 25 Feb 1991, 12 on Cerro San Gil, 28 Feb 1991, and 13, 12, on Cerro San Gil, 2 Mar 1991. Apparently fairly common in the Caribbean lowlands and foothills, supporting the obser- vations of Wendelken & Martin (1989); the only other Guatemalan record is from the last century (Salvin & Godman 1883: 259). SLATE-COLOURED SEEDEATER Sporophila schistacea Honduras: at least 15 birds at Lancetilla, 1-9 Jun 1988, including several singing males and a female carrying nest material. None, how- ever, noted at Lancetilla during 10-17 Mar 1991. This nomadic species appears to be expanding its range in Central America: it has invaded the Caribbean Slope of Costa Rica since about 1975 (Stiles & Skutch 1989) and was first recorded in Honduras in 1979 (Marcus 1983). S.N.G. Howell & S. Webb 49 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Acknowledgements We thank Ing. Cesar A. Alvarado B. for his assistance during our studies at Lancetilla Botanical Gardens in Jun 1988. Howell thanks Rose Ann Barnhill of Puerto Barrios for logistical support in Feb—Mar 1991, Jack Bucklin and Tim Fenske for contributing their unpublished records, and Charlie Lownes for drawing his attention to Cerro San Gil. FUNDAECO (in particular Jack Bucklin and Marco Cerezo) and Don Juan Antonio Paz (of Finca El Higuerito) provided logistical support for Howell during a field trip to El Golfete, Dpto. Izabal, in Feb 1991. This is contribution number 494 of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory. References: American Ornithologists’ Union. 1983. Check-list of North American Birds, 6th ed. A.O.U. Washington, D.C. Andrle, R. F. 1967. The Horned Guan in Mexico and Guatemala. Condor 69: 93-109. Beavers, R. A., Delaney, D. J., Leahy, C. W. & Oatman, G. F. 1991. New and noteworthy bird records from Peten, Guatemala, including Tikal National Park. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 111: 77-90. Bond, J. 1936. Resident birds of the Bay Islands of Spanish Honduras. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 88: 353-364. Brown, H.C. & Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1974. Birds records from Honduras. Condor 76: 348-349. Dickerman, R. W. 1975. Nine new specimen records from Guatemala. Wilson Bull. 87: 412-413. Dickerman, R. W. 1977. Three more new specimen records for Guatemala. Wilson Bull. 89: 612-613. Griscom, L. 1932. The distribution of bird-life in Guatemala. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 64: 439 pp. Howell, S. N. G. 1989. Short-tailed Nighthawk (Lurocalis “‘semitorquatus’’) in Mexico. Aves Mexicanas 2(89-2): 9-10. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. 1989. Notes on the Honduran Emerald. Wilson Bull. 101: 642-643. International Council for Bird Preservation. 1989. World Birdwatch 11 (3): 3. Land, H. C. 1970. Birds of Guatemala. Livingston, Pennysylvania. Marcus, M. J. 1983. Additions to the avifauna of Honduras. Auk 100: 621-629. Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1968. A distributional survey of the birds of Honduras. Ornithol. Monogr. No. 7. Ridgely, R. S. & Gwynne, J.A. 1989. A Guide to the Birds of Panama, 2nd ed. Princeton Univ. Press. Princeton, New Jersey. Russell, S. M. 1966. Status of the Black Rail and Grey-breasted Crake in British Honduras. Condor 68: 105-107. Salvin, O. & Godman, F. D. 1879-1904. Biologia Centrali- Americana, Aves. Taylor & Francis, London. Smithe, F. B. 1966. The Birds of Tikal. Natural History Press, New York. Stiles, F. G. & Skutch, A.F. 1989. A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica. Cornell Univ. Press. Ithaca, New York. Thurber, W. A., Serrano, J. F., Sermeno, A., & Benitez, M. 1987. Status of uncommon or previously unreported birds of El] Salvador. Proc. West. Foundation Vert. Zool. 3: 109-293. Vannini, J. P. 1989. Neotropical raptors and deforestation: notes on diurnal raptors at Finca E] Faro, Quetzaltenango [sic], Guatemala. ¥. Raptor Res. 23: 27-38. Wendelken, P. W. & Martin, R. F. 1986. Recent data on the distribution of birds in Guatemala. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 106: 16-21. Wendelken, P. W. & Martin, R. F. 1989. Recent data on the distribution of birds in Guatemala, 2. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 109: 31-36. Address: Steve N. G. Howell & Sophie Webb, Point Reyes Bird Observatory, 4990 Shoreline Highway, Stinson Beach, California 94970, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 M. Louette 50 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) ‘The identification of forest Accipiters in central Africa: by M. Louette Received 30 April 1991 Prigogine (1980) considers the taxa tachiro and tousseneli, lumped in one species (African Goshawk) in Birds of Africa (Brown et al. 1982), as separate species, because in Zaire, where admittedly they are virtually parapatric, there are no certain intermediates: he does not, however, mention their almost significant size difference (see Table iF birds from the area of sympatry: Kivu). It is unfortunate that Birds of Africa illustrates adult males and immature females only, whereby the fact is masked that in the tachiro group, but not in the toussenelii group, the adult female is decidedly less reddish underneath than the male. The imma- tures are quite different as well (Brosset & Erard 1986): toussenelii is generally whitish underneath, with some individuals having restricted speckling on the breast; tachiro is variable but mostly more heavily speckled. Both have barring on the flanks and, in some individuals, on the thighs. A smaller species, the Chestnut-flanked Sparrowhawk Accipiter castanilius, is correctly illustrated in Brown & Amadon (1968) and Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1970). In Birds of Africa, it is wrongly depicted, both the adult (male) and the immature. The adult (sexes are similar in colour) is depicted as lacking the very characteristic grey and very dark brown (not red, which is the colour of the flanks) barring on the underside, present in all 40 adult specimens of both sexes in the Koninklyk Museum voor Midden-Afrika. The adult bird shown 1s in fact more like the Ethiopian unduliventer, the Upper Guinean macroscelides and most (but not all; see illustration in Brosset & Erard 1986) Gabon and Cameroon t. toussenelii races of African Goshawk sensu lato, which are barred rufous and whitish. The variation in toussenelii in Cameroon misled me earlier, when I thought that the two phenotypes present there belonged possibly to different species (Louette 1981). In fact, some specimens from north- western Zaire are also slightly barred and there is variation in the colour of the thighs (white, greyish or reddish). In the equatorial forest belt, there is a cline from west to east in the number of individuals with barred under- parts. Chapin (1921) found toussenelii from eastern Zaire to be paler and described them as a new race, canescens, but in the larger series available now, it appears that the main distinguishing character is size (Table 1). It would be unwise to consider the whole Zaire population as canescens, but the large, almost wholly unbarred Kivu birds may be named so. The immature A. castanilius illustrated in Birds of Africa lacks the rusty colour on the thighs, present in all specimens, and resembles instead the immature of A. toussenelii, which is otherwise very similar. (In unduliventer and macroscelides and some of the central African race sparsimfasciatus of A. tachiro, the immature has rufous thighs as well.) M. Louette 51 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) TABLE 1 Measurements (mm) of adults of central African Accipiters Wing chord Claw of inner toe Accipiter toussenelii 9 males 192.8, s.d. 2.7 14.27, s.d. 0.72 from Equateur (187.5-196.5, n=8) (13.1-15.2) 10 females 225.1, s.d. 4.5 18.28, s.d. 0.45 from Equateur (219-234.5, n=9) (17.2-19.0) 10 females 231.7, s.d. 6.0 19.22, s.d. 0.66 from Kivu (223-241.5) (18.0—20.2) Accipiter tachiro 10 males 207.5, s.d. 4.5 16.45, s.d. 0.59 from Kivu (199.5—213) (15.6-17.5) 10 females 24 lel svdeis23 19.99, s.d. 1.03 from Kivu (234-251) (18.4-21.9) Accipiter castanilius 10 females 186.0, s.d. 2.6 16.26, s.d. 0.74 from Equateur (182.5-191) (15.0-17.2) 8 females 189.1, s.d. 2.8 15.73, s.d. 0.50 from Kivu (184-192.5, n=7) (15.1-16.4) My measurements of the tail for macroscelides (Louette 1974) are unaccountably long, but the wing measurements are correct, proving that in Upper Guinea the African Goshawk is of generally small size, not much larger than the Chestnut-flanked Sparrowhawk (which occurs in Lower Guinea only). Due to small size and barred underparts in Upper Guinea, the African Goshawk (macroscelides) there has been confused with the Chestnut-flanked Sparrowhawk; mistakenly, Birds of Africa shows the latter there on its map, though not in its text. Within A. castanilius, there is no geographical size difference between birds collected in Equateur and Kivu in Zaire (Table 1), making the distinction of the latter birds under the name beniensis invalid. Neither does the limited material at my disposal from Cameroon suggest that the species is any smaller there. Pending further material, I consider A. castanilius as monotypic. Because in its central African range A. castanilius is everywhere sympatric with A. t. tousseneli or A. t. canescens, apart from the above mentioned caveat for adults, there is a problem in distinguishing the immatures of the similar-sized female castanilius and male toussenelit, both in the hand and in the field. Their wing, tail, culmen and hind claw measurements are rather similar, and the length of the middle toe, though better separated, is not easy to measure on skins. The solution to the problem is given in Brosset’s (1973) schematic drawings of the feet: the claw of the inner toe (the largest of the three anterior ones) is longer in castanilius, which nevertheless has a shorter wing (Table 1). This corresponds with its different ecology, this species being a rather special- ised bird hunter, whereas toussenelii also catches mammals and lower vertebrates (Wattel 1972, Brosset 1973, Brosset & Erard 1986). The general size of birds in immature plumage is the same as that of the adult bird (Table 2 illustrates this for one size category), only the tail may be M. Louette 52 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) TABLE 2 Measurements (mm) of male Accipiter castanilius Wing chord Claw of inner toe 10 adults 158.7 s.d. 4.1 12.83 s.d. 0.37 from Equateur (150.5-164) (12.2-13.5) 10 immatures from S82 6istdt 225 12.51 s.d. 0.57 Equateur & W. Uele (154-161.5) (11.5-13.3) longer in the immature (see De Vos et al. in prep.). The toes and claws rapidly attain their final size in these raptors and this makes it possible to identify the immatures. A key for immature birds in central Africa 1. wing (generally well) over 197 mm: 2. 1*. wing shorter than 197 mm, but over 174 mm: 4. 1**. wing shorter than 174 mm, thighs with rufous: male castanilius. 2. thighs white (possibly barred brown), mostly sparingly speckled underneath: female toussenelit. 2*. heavy speckling underneath, generally yellowish underside or rusty thighs: tachiro (only in eastern or southern Zaire): 3. 3. wing shorter than 223 mm: male. 3*. wing longer: female. . 4. thighs with rufous, claw of inner toe over 14.9mm: female castanilius. 4*. thighs white (possibly barred brown), breast and belly usually very whitish, claw of inner toe under 15.3 mm: male toussenelit. There is no danger of confusing the similar-sized male of A. castanilius with the female of the Red-thighed Sparrowhawk A. erythropus, because in the latter species the white rump 1s present in all ages and sexes. Immature females of the African Goshawk can be separated from 1mma- ture (males) of the Black Sparrowhawk A. melanoleucus: in the latter species, the immature is always rufous (some tachiro are also rufous), but streaked underneath, not speckled or barred. Acknowledgements I thank P. Herroelen for useful discussion and A. Reygel for help with the measurements of the claws. References: Brosset, A. 1973. Evolution des Accipiter forestiers du Gabon. Alauda 41: 185-201. Brosset, A. & Erard, C. 1986. Les Oiseaux des Régions Forestiéres du Nord-est du Gabon. Vol. 1. Societé Nationale de Protection de la Nature, Paris. Brown, L. & Amadon, D. 1968. Eagles, Hawks and Falcons of the World. Country Life Books, Feltham, U.K. Brown, L., Urban, E. K. & Newman, K. 1982. The Birds of Africa. Vol. 1. Academic Press. Chapin, J. P. 1921. Description of four new birds from the Belgian Congo. Am. Mus. Novit. no./7. De Vos, L., Meirte, D. & Louette, M. Is the longer tail in immature raptors functional? F. S. Ash 53 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Louette, M. 1974. Contribution to the ornithology of Liberia (Part 3). Rev. Zool. Afr. 88: 741-748. Louette, M. 1981. The Birds of Cameroon. An annotated check-list. Paleis der Academién, Brussels. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1970. Birds of West Central and Western Africa. Longman. Prigogine, A. 1980. Etude de quelques contacts secondaires au Zaire oriental. Gerfaut 70: 305-384. Wattel, J. 1972. Geografische differentiatie in het genus Accipiter. Luxora, Wormerveer, Netherlands. Address: Dr Michel Louette, Koninklijk Museum voor Midden-Afrika, B-3080 Tervuren, Belgium. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Dark plumaged House Martins Delichon urbica in northeastern Siberia by F.S. Ash Received 23 September 1991 During 13—15 June 1991 several House Martins Delichon urbica, on which the normally white areas of the plumage were more or less obscured with dark colouration, were observed close to the town of Anadyr (64°35’/N, 177°20’E) in northeastern Siberia. This area is situated in the tundra zone and is beyond the eastern limit of this martin’s breeding distribution as shown in Cramp (1988) and at the absolute eastern limit of it as shown in Turner & Rose (1989). The birds involved consisted of a group of c.10 at any one time feeding round and over a small pool on the boundary of a rather busy airport. Snow and ice had apparently cleared from the area in the previous week or two, but it was not known for how long the birds had been there nor even whether the same individuals were present during the time I was there. Other birds were seen from a bus at Anadyr close to buildings, but they were not examined for dark individuals. Possibly all the birds were still on passage, for 30 mostly rather distant House Martins were seen feeding over a river at Kantschalan, c.150 km NNE of Anadyr, on 17 June. A few of these seen well enough were not discoloured. Description of discoloured birds No two of the abnormally coloured birds were exactly alike and the degrees of variation are described here: 1. White rump above, and below all dark except for whitish throat and sides of neck. 2. White rump above; all dark below without any indication of even where the edge of the white on the underparts was. 3. As no. 2, but with a trace of white on the throat and belly. This bird was bathing frequently, by splashing into the water from the air, and had some dishevelled remiges and rectrices. ¥. S Ash 54 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) 4. As no. 2, but white rump almost obscured. This was the darkest form. 5. Almost normal birds, but slightly diffused dusky on the white under- parts which were darker than in Delichon dasypus. 6. As no. 5 but darker below, but not as dark as no. 2. Numbers of dark birds involved There were at least six discoloured birds at Anadyr, and apparently another elsewhere. Records were as follows. 13 June: one each of nos 1, 2, 3 and 4 ina total of c. 10 birds at 09.00 h. At 17.00 h there were two of the abnormal birds (one each of nos 2 and 3). 14 June: one, possibly two, no. 5 birds in a total of 7 or 8. 15 June: there were only a few normal birds in the early morning, but later there were single no. 4 and no. 6 birds. In the evening at about 19.00h a single no. 6 bird was present in a flock of c.30 House Martins at a lake, near what was named locally as Hill 150, at c.12km north of the Anadyr site. This latter bird was also noted independently by Mark Van Beirs. 16 June: on two visits in the morning only two and one normal plumaged birds were seen. Possible cause of abnormal colouration At the time of these observations three possible explanations were being considered for the dark birds: (1) that they were melanistic genetic morphs, perhaps restricted to that area of Siberia; (2) that they were local birds contaminated by contact with a pollutant while roosting or perched; (3) that while on passage they had passed through an area of severely polluted atmosphere, such as that in the region of Kuwait. The possibility of black morphs being involved seems unlikely. I have been unable to trace any other similar observations in House Martins, and the apparent transient nature of the occurrence also tends to rule out this possibility. This species tended to disappear in the middle of mid- summer arctic nights at Anadyr, and I failed to find where they went to: possibly they remained high in the air. Neither did I see House Martins sitting on wires or buildings, and I searched without success for any building in the area which was contaminated with a dark substance such as oil or paint. Similarly there was no indication that the pool used by the birds, or any of the other pools or streams in the area, were contaminated by a surface pollutant. Many waterbirds and passerines also used these wet areas, and no indication of any contamination was seen on them. The last possibility, that contamination had occurred on migration, seems the most likely explanation. A possible source of aerial contami- nation in the spring of 1991 was in the Kuwait area, some 9000 km to the southwest of Anadyr, where a huge mass of polluted air from burning oil-wells covered a broad area. The drawback to this theory is that the race of House Martins in northeastern Siberia is D.u.lagopoda. According to Cramp (1988) this race is believed to overwinter from Assam to Indo-China, so that it is unlikely to occur in Kuwait, unless some part of the lagopoda population actually does extend that far west and even join nominate birds overwintering south of the Sahara. Michael Evans of ICBP led a group which investigated in the spring of 1991 the effects on birds of the war in the Persian Gulf. He informed me (pers. comm., and Evans et al. in prep.) that the firing of the Kuwait A. Tye 55 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) oil-wells resulted in the contamination of many migrant birds, including hirundines, while they were flying, moving about in vegetation, or feed- ing and resting in water. Affected birds had plumage discoloured by soot, including the underwings; the plumage was sometimes slightly tacky to the touch, possibly resulting from micro-particles of unburned or incompletely burned oil raised into the atmosphere with the smoke. An explanation for the occurrence of the dark birds in Siberia must remain within the realms of supposition at the present time. Further observations from this area are perhaps unlikely, but data from elsewhere might help to elucidate the matter. Acknowledgements I wish to thank Mark Van Beirs for his help in Siberia, and Michael Evans of ICBP for discussion and for kindly permitting me to refer to his draft paper on the effects of the Gulf War on birds. References: Cramp, S. 1988. The Birds of the Western Palearctic. Vol. 5. Oxford Univ. Press. Evans, M. I., Pilcher, C. W. T. & Symens, P. In prep. Impact of the Gulf War on birds. Orn. Soc. Middle East Bull. Turner, A. & Rose, C. 1989. A Handbook to the Swallows and Martins of the World. Christopher Helm, London. Address: Godshill Wood, Fordingbridge, Hants. SP6 2LR, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 A new subspecies of Cisticola bulliens from northern Angola by Alan Tye Received 10 May 1991 Lynes (1930) originally described the Bubbling Cisticola Cisticola bulliens, from a Type collected at Lobito, on the coast of Benguela Province in southern Angola. The species occurs throughout western Angola, north to Cabinda. Lynes studied the long series of specimens in the British Museum (Natural History) (BMNH) and noted that geogra- phical variation was “‘very slight: not considered racially divisible.” However, separation of the BM NH series according to locality shows the existence of two distinguishable populations; the birds from Benguela Province (including the type locality) are lighter in colour than northern birds. Therefore, I propose to name the latter Cisticola bulliens septentrionalis subsp. nov. Holotype. BMNH no. 1910.5.6.750, adult male in non-breeding plumage, collected at Ndala Tando (9°13’S, 14°56’E), Angola, on 14 August 1908 by Dr W.J. Ansorge (collector’s no. 428). A. Tye 56 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Diagnosis. The new race differs from the respective plumages of the nominate in the head top (forehead to nape) being a richer, darker brown, less yellow-tinged. This difference is most noticeable in non-breeding (fresh) plumage, but is also evident in worn, breeding dress. In non- breeding dress, the rest of the upperparts are darker, browner, less grey than in the nominate, the centres of the feathers of the back being a darker sepia and the borders a richer brown. This difference virtually disappears in worn, breeding plumage. Measurements of the type (mm). Wing 68, tail 65, bill 17, tarsus 24. Measurements of the subspecies. Male: wing (n= 14) 61—68 (mean 64.6); tail (breeding, m= 8) 53—58 (55.0), (non-breeding, n= 6) 57—65 (60.8); bill (n= 14) 16-18 (16.8); tarsus (n=13) 24-27 (24.5). Female: wing (n=5) 51—56 (54.2); tail (breeding, m= 3) 43—50 (46.0), (non-breeding, n= 2) 52, 57; bill (n=5) 14-15 (14.8); tarsus (n=5) 21-22 (21.6). Distribution. C. b. septentrionalis is known to occur in northern Angola, from Cabinda through intervening coastal Zaire, south to about Gabela (11°S). It does not appear to intergrade with the nominate race south of Gabela. Specimens examined. C. b. septentrionalis: paratypes include the follow- ing specimens in the BMNH. Non-breeding males: Ndala Tando 1910.5.6.751, 753, 755-759, 810-812 (collected July-December 1908); Dondo, Angola 1910.5.6.760-762 (July 1908); R. Cuvo (10°47'S, 14°20’E) 1957.35.395 (19 September 1957); Landana, Cabinda 95.5.1.1180 (August 1883). Breeding males: lower R. Cuanza valley (9-10°S, 14-15°E) 1931.12.21.509-514 (March 1931); Quiculungo (Cuanza Norte Province, Angola) 1940.12.2.60 (March 1939); Ambrizete (north Angola) 1931.12.21.515 (17 April 1931); Landana 89.3.27.45, 95.5.1.1178 (February and March 1883). Non-breeding females: Ndala Tando 1910.5.6.800, 801 (13 August and 6 November 1908); Dondo 1910.5.6.802 (12 July 1908). Breeding females: lower R. Cuanza valley (near) Dondo)) 1931.12.21.510), (12 " March” 1931); 4 Amabnizete 1931.12.21.516 (7 April 1931); 11 miles west of Matadi, left bank of R. Congo 1931.12.21.517 (11 April 1931). Nine unsexed or doubtfully- sexed adult skins and four probable immatures in the BMNH were also examined. C. b. bulliens: five non-breeding males, six breeding males, five non-breeding females and six breeding females, all from Benguela Province, collected in July and August (non-breeding birds) and January—March (breeding), all in the BMNH. Acknowledgements I thank the staff of the British Museum at Tring for access to specimens in their care, and Hilary Tye who confirmed that the differences between the two races were real, by correctly placing several anonymous skins. References: Lynes, H. 1930. Review of the genus Cisticola. Ibis (12) 6, Suppl. Address: Dr Alan Tye, IUCN, P.O. Box 1, Amani, via Muheza, Tanga, Tanzania. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 P. A. Clancey 57 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) The status of Corythaix reichenow1 Fischer, 1880 and Corythaix cabanisi Reichenow, 1883 by P. A. Clancey Received 7 June 1991 Both forms of Afrotropical turacos of the genus Tauraco Kluk, 1779, Corythaix reichenowi Fischer, 1880 and Corythaix cabanisi Reichenow, 1883, were seemingly described on single specimens from the same type- locality in eastern ‘Tanzania, their status still being unresolved. Peters (1940), in recognising C. cabanisi as a valid subspecies of Tauraco livingston (Gray), gives its type-locality as the Nguru Mts of eastern Tanzania (6°09'S, 37°20’E), and its range as extending from Bagamoyo on the coast and Ugogo to the Uzungwe Mts (8°20'S, 36°00’E). He then deals with a second taxon described three years earlier from the Nguru range—Corythaix reichenowi—commenting that its status is still unsettled. While 7. /. cabanisi has been recognised by many students of the Musophagidae, the equivocal name reichenowt has only really figured in recent times in the southern African literature, where it has been used for the populations of T. livingstonii distributed from the Tanzanian coast south along the littoral of Mozambique to northeastern Zululand (to the St Lucia estuary); see Clancey (1952, 1980; 1989, especially Fig. 2). As pointed out in the last publication, the status of the names rezchenowi and cabanisi warrants critical reconsideration, as both are currently understood to have the same type-locality, and, as a result, the colour characters attributed to the types may simply represent individual rather than geographical variation. With the recent reunification of Germany it was possible to arrange to have the types of both rezchenowi and cabanisi, housed in the collection of the Institut fur Spezielle Zoologie und Zoologisches Museum, Berlin, sent to the Zoologisches Forschungsinstitut und Museum Alexander Koenig, Bonn, where they were critically compared on my behalf by Dr H. E. Wolters of the said institute, with recent material of T. livingstonii populations resident in eastern Zimbabwe, lowland Mozambique and the Nguru Mts of Tanzania sent over for the purpose from the Durban Natural Science Museum. Commenting on the assembled material, Dr Wolters attests that the female type of cabanisi is an indifferently prepared skin with a wing of 165 mm, of a bird which had been in captivity for ten months prior to its death. The original data label records that it came from Bagamoyo (6°20'S, 38°30’E), to which has been added in a second hand (that of Reichenow?) a comment to the effect that the given locality is doubtful. It is important to note, nevertheless, that the Ngurus are not alluded to on the original label, the adoption of these mountains as the type-locality by later authors being the result of the secondary querying of the type’s provenance. Two specimens from southern Mozambique (from Chimonzo, to the immediate south of the Limpopo estuary, and Massinga, in the P. A. Clancey 58 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Inhambane district), both part of a good series currently referred to the subspecies T./. reichenowt (see Clancey 1980), are closely similar to the type of cabanisi, Wolters noting that they are perhaps a little more bluish on the backs and wing-coverts, which slight difference in nuance is prob- ably a result of colour deterioration through time, the type now being well over a hundred years old, and the bird’s months of captivity prior to death. The locality of Bagamoyo as given on the label of the type is seen as in all probability correct, in which case the subspecies of T. livingstonii of the eastern African coastlands from south of 6° S to northeastern Zululand will bear the trinomen T. /. cabanisi. On comparison, the type-specimen of Fischer’s C. reichenowi was determined as being attributable to a form very different to T. 1. cabanist. ‘The specimen is a neat skin, unsexed, and taken in the Nguru Mts by the describer Dr G. A. Fischer (1848-1886). It was presumably prepared by the collector. Compared with the type of cabanisi, it was found to ‘“‘look very different’’, the back and wing-coverts deep blue, with a green sheen only present over the mantle. This finding agrees in part with Shelley’s (1891) rendition of Fischer’s original description of rezchenowi in which the shorter, less frontally peaked and more evenly graduated style of the crest—recalling that found in the southern African 7. corythaix (Wagler)—is also emphasized. By all accounts, samples of rezchenowi from single blocks of montane evergreen forest are subject to a measure of individual variation over the upper-parts and wings. Friedmann (in Friedmann & Loveridge 1937) comments on a series of twelve adults of what they consider to be 7. /. cabanisi from the Uluguru Mts to the effect that some were typical of cabanisi (greenish), others bluish (rezchenow2) and yet others intermediate (hybridus;= Turacus hybridus Reichenow, 1898). Personal examination of eastern Tanzanian montane evergreen forest material confirms that such populations are discrete form nominate T. livingstonit on the basis of a shorter and more evenly graduated crest, rather more lustrous upper-parts, with the metallic green largely confined to the mid-dorsal plane, and the lateral back (including the scapulars), wing-coverts and tertials blue or dark greenish blue. As in all plumages with refractive colouration, there is a measure of individual variation, some of which may also result from both solar action and wear. On the basis of the re-examination of the type-specimen, which represents the blue extreme of the eastern Tanzanian montane popu- lations, and nomenclatural priority, the said populations will now become T. 1. reichenowt. Britton (1980) subsumes under the nominate race of T. livingstoni both T. 1. reichenowi and T. 1. cabanisi. In Clancey (1974) I demonstrated that in T. 1. livingstonii the crest-length declines clinally from longest in regions to the south of the Zambesi to shorter north of it. This decline in the length of the crest-feathers terminates in one of the characters of T. 1. reichenowi, which further differs from nominate livingstoni in the generally bluer lateral dorsal and adjacent wing-surfaces. The latter subspecies is in effect restricted to the eastern aspects of Zimbabwe and adjacent montane Mozambique, north to southern Malawi to the east of the Rift and the contiguous highlands of northern Mozambique. T. /. livingstoni and T. 1. cabanisi of the Mozambique littoral intergrade at P. A. Clancey 59 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) points along the range interface, as occurs further north in eastern Africa where the ranges of cabanisi of the littoral and of the interior rezchenowi are juxtaposed. This confirms their conspecificity. In sharp contrast is the state of parapatry existing where the western elements of livingstonii meet the eastern populations of schalowi, which Dowsett-Lemaire & Dowsett (1988) would have us, on the basis of discrete vocalization, treat as a further species, Tauraco schalowi (Reichenow), described from Angola. An opposing view is that of van Tuinen & Valentine (1986), who, employ- ing chromosome banding analysis procedures, maintain that schalowz is part of the southern T. corythaix. Be that as it may, T. livingstoni and T. schalowi meet in a state of secondary contact and are in effect paraspecies with little or no hybridization, whereas schalowi and corythaix subspp. are spatially remote, separated from one another by unsuitable habitats and in the east by intrusive populations of nominate T. livingstoni. Taxo- nomically it is more satisfactory to view schalowi as a species and not part of either livingstonii or corythaix. As all three species here dealt with—T. corythaix, T. livingstonit and T. schalowi—are seen as the result of a comparatively recent radiation, it may be noted that there is a confusing measure of character repetition between them, as instanced by the T. /. cabanisi-type of dorsal and wing-colouration present in the 7. corythaix race T. c. phoebus (Neumann), 1907, of Transvaal highland forests (see Clancey 1975), and the approach to a corythaix-style of crest to be found in T. 1. reichenowi (see above). Species limits in the turacos here dealt with are difficult to resolve on straightforward morphological criteria and can only be satisfactorily arrived at by a close study of the reactions of the populations of the forms concerned at their range interfaces. The characters and ranges of the three forms of T. livingstonii (of the estimated four) herein dealt with, all of which are recognised by Wolters (1976), will now stand as given below. The colours employed are those of Ridgway (1912). Tauraco livingstoniu livingstonu (Gray), 1864: Manganja Highlands, southern Malawi. Crest-length 65 to c. 75mm. Mantle, scapulars and adjacent wings dark Peacock Green, the feathers broadly fringed emerald, imparting a scaled effect. Range: Montane evergreen forests of the frontier highlands of Zimbabwe and southern Mozambique, and north of the Zambezi in the highlands of Malawi east of the Rift, and of adjacent northern Mozambique. Tauraco livingstonii cabanisi (Reichenow), 1883: Bagamoyo, coastal Tanzania. Crest-length >65 mm. Scapulars and adjacent wing-surfaces about dull bluish Invisible Green, tinged violet, the scaled effect reduced. Range: Littoral forests of northeastern Zululand (from about the St Lucia estuary) and of Mozambique, north to the coastlands of Tanzania to the south of c. 6°S. Intergrades in the south of its range with T. 1. livingstonii to the west, and north of the Rovuma R. in the west with T. /. reichenowt. Tauraco livingstoniu reichenowi (Fischer), 1880: Nguru Mts, eastern Tanzania. Crest-length <65 mm. Scapulars and adjacent wings more P. A. Clancey 60 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) lustrous and darker bluish than cabanisi (about Indulin Blue, with some green admixture). Range: Montane evergreen forests of the Nguru and Uluguru Ranges, southeast to the Dabaga Highlands and Njombe and other highlands clustered round the north and northeast of L. Malawi in Tanzania. Britton (1980) gives the established range of T. /. chalcolophus (Neumann), 1895: Mt Gurui, Irangi, Tanzania, as highlands of northern ‘Tanzania at Hanang, Ketumbeine, Ufiome, Ngorongoro and Mbulu. He does not allude to T. /. loitanus (Neumann), 1908: Loita Hills, south- western Kenya, which may in fact be an isolate of T. schalowi, which otherwise ranges east to just east of L. Tanganyika. The last named has a crest-length to 112 mm. In the south of the range T. livingstonii occurs in parapatric association with the austral 7. corythaix (in both the nominate race and T. c. phoebus) and, comparably so, further north in the Malawi Rift region with T. schalowt. Acknowledgements I am singularly indebted to the late Dr H. E. Wolters of the Museum Alexander Koenig, Bonn, for carefully comparing the types of two contentious turaco forms described last century from eastern Tanzania with selected material from the collection of the Durban Natural Science Museum. Thanks are also due to Dr G. Mauersberger of the Zoologisches Museum, Berlin, for kindly releasing the types of both Corythaix reichenowi and C. cabanisi for this investigation. References: Britton, P. L. (ed.) 1980. Birds of East Africa—their habitat, status and distribution. East Africa Natural History Society, Nairobi. Clancey, P. A. 1952. On the status of Tauraco reichenow1 (Fischer) and its relationship to the other South African forms of the genus Tauraco Kluk. Durban Mus. Novit. 4: 31-39. Clancey, P. A. 1974. Subspeciation studies in some Rhodesian birds. Arnoldia (Rhod.) 6: 6-7. Clancey, P. A. 1975. On the endemic birds of the montane evergreen forest biome of the ‘Transvaal. Durban Mus. Novit. 10: 157. Clancey, P. A. (ed.) 1980. S.4.0.S. Checklist of Southern African Birds. Southern African Ornithological Society, Johannesburg. Clancey, P. A. 1989. Four additional species of southern African endemic birds. Durban Mus. Novit. 14: 145-148. Dowsett-Lemaire F. & Dowsett, R. J. 1988. Vocalisations of green turacos (Tauraco species) and their systematic status. Tauraco 1: 64-71. Friedmann, H. & Loveridge, A. 1937. Notes on the ornithology of tropical East Africa. Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool. 81: 101-102. Peters, J. L. 1940. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 4. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Ridgway, R. 1912. Color Standards and Color Nomenclature. Washington, D.C. Shelley, G. E. 1891. Catalogue of Birds in the Collection of the British Museum. Vol. 19. British Museum, London. van Tuinen, P. & Valentine, M. 1986. Phylogenetic relationships of turacos (Musophagidae; Cuculiformes) based on comparative chromosome banding analysis. [bis 128: 364-381. Wolters, H. E. 1976. Die Vogelarten der Erde. Lief. 2. Paul Parey, Hamburg and Berlin. Address: Dr P. A. Clancey, Research Associate, Durban Natural Science Museum, P.O. Box 4085, Durban 4000, South Africa. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 C. ¥. Hazevoet 61 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Further notes on migrants in the Cape Verde Islands by C. F. Hazevoet Received 24 Fune 1991 In a previous note (Hazevoet 1990), data were given for several new and rare migrants observed in the Cape Verde Islands in 1986—90. During another 3 months stay in the country (27 January—28 April 1991), in connection with the National Parks and Protected Areas Program, additional observations were made on some of the species listed pre- viously, while another new species and a new subspecies were recorded. Many of the observations during the current period seem to confirm the supposition made earlier, that with continuing ornithological research many of the species that were considered vagrants in the past will be shown to be regular (passage) visitors, be it in limited numbers. As in 1986-90, most of the migrant passerines were found again in the three eastern islands (Sal, Boavista, Maio). It appears now that they really do occur more often there and that their appearance is in consequence of the position nearer to the African mainland and not only related to the fact that these flat islands offer better opportunities for encountering small birds. However, it may be noteworthy that the few records of migrant passerines elsewhere 1n the archipelago were also made on flat islands such as Sao Vicente and Raso. Apart from hirundines, there are no records at all of migrant passerines from Santiago, Fogo, Brava and Santo Antao, all of which combine a mountainous environment with a more westerly position. Again, through the courtesy of several other observers some of their unpublished records could be included here. Unless stated otherwise, all observations are by the author. More data on migrants were recently published by den Hartog (1990). The distribution of migrant waders in the Cape Verde Is. is discussed in another paper (Hazevoet 1991), includ- ing the third record of Knot Calidris canutus, inadvertently omitted by Hazevoet (1990). SPOONBILL Platalea leucorodia In April 1991, Spoonbills were observed again at the same two lagoons where they were regularly seen during 1988—90 (Hazevoet 1990). On 9 April, 2 juveniles were observed at Pedra Badejo lagoon, Santiago, and on 24-26 April, one juvenile was present at Rabil lagoon, Boavista. There are now 14 records (10 since 1986) and the species can be considered a regular, probably annual, visitor in small numbers, almost exclusively at the two sites mentioned. AVOCET Recurvirostra avosetta One was present at Rabil lagoon, Boavista, on 18 February 1991, and again one there (possibly the same bird) on 26 April. Only 2 previous records: Alexander (1898b) observed 2 in saltpans near Porto Inglés (Vila do Maio), Maio, on 20 November 1897, and another 2 were seen at the Pedra Lume saltpans, Sal, on 7-8 February 1987 (D. de Bruyn). C. J. Hazevoet 62 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) BAR-TAILED GODWIT Limosa lapponica Hazevoet (1990) gave 11 records since 1969,. when it was first collected. Further records in 1991 (4 at Rabil lagoon, Boavista, 18 February, and 2 there, 24-26 April) confirm that the species is now a regular (annual) winter visitor in small numbers and extend the known period of occurrence to October-April. WHIMBREL Numenius phaeopus Nominate N. p. phaeopus is a widespread winter visitor along the coast throughout the islands. On 15 February 1991, I observed a Whimbrel with an all-brown rump at Preguig¢a, Sao Nicolau, and identified it as N. p. hudsonicus. This is the first record of the Nearctic subspecies and in fact only the second Nearctic (sub)species recorded in the Cape Verde Is., American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica being recorded three times (Bannerman & Bannerman 1968, Frade 1976). It is possible, of course, that some of the other migrants or vagrants in the islands (e.g. Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius and Sabine’s Gull Larus sabint) originate from North American breeding grounds, but since there are as yet no ringing recoveries this remains speculative. In West Africa, N. p. hudsonicus has been recorded once in Sierra Leone (Urban et al. 1986). CURLEW Numenius arquata One was seen along the shore southeast of Porto Inglés (Vila do Maio), Maio, on 2 April 1991, in the company of a Whimbrel N. phaeopus. This is the first acceptable record. Previously, Alexander (1898a) reported that he heard a pair calling on Boavista on 13 May 1897, without giving further details. Bocage (1898) listed it without evidence for Santiago, Sal, Boavista and Maio. SPOTTED REDSHANK Tvinga erythropus On 18 February 1991, one was present at Rabil lagoon, Boavista, together with many other wader species. The only previous record was of one at Pedra Badejo lagoon, Santiago, on 9 November 1988 (Hazevoet 1990). COMMON TERN Sterna hirundo On 18 February 1991, 2 were observed at Rabil lagoon, Boavista, and one was present there on 26 April. Previously, there were only two records of birds ringed in Finland and Sweden and recovered on Santo Antao in June 1935 and on Sal in April 1979 respectively (Rydzewski 1958; B.-O. Stolt, am litt.). Other recent records are of 1—2 birds at Calheta, Maio, on 5 January 1987 (D. de Bruyn), one immature near Curral Velho, Boavista, on 30 December 1988 (K. Morgan), and one near Praia, Santiago, on 21 May 1989 R. L. Miller). Furthermore, there is a ringing recovery of a Swedish bird of which further details are lacking at present (Tauraco AFRING Data Bank). There are no breeding terns in the Cape Verde Islands, but migrants are apparently less rare than formerly supposed. Recent observations show that at least 4 species are probably regular passage visitors in small numbers. Data on Sandwich Tern S. sandvicensis and Little Tern S. albifrons were given by Hazevoet (1990), while the latter species was observed again in 1991 (see below). Furthermore, Lambert (1980) observed Arctic Terns S. paradisaea in C. F. Hazevoet 63 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) flocks of up to 65 birds at sea among the islands, and Icelandic fishery researchers informed me that they saw c. 20 Arctic Terns at sea between Maio and Santiago in April 1989. Moreover, there are 3 records of unidentified terns (Murphy 1924, P. W. G. Chilman im Bannerman & Bannerman 1968, C. J. Camphuysen), and ‘Comic Terns’ S. hirundo/ paradisaea have been reported at sea just east, west and south of the islands (Harris & Hansen 1974, A. R. Louch). LITTLE TERN Sterna albifrons On 24-26 April 1991, one was foraging along the shore south of Sal Rei, Boavista, the same location where one was seen in March 1990 (Hazevoet 1990). There are now 3 records from Boavista and Maio during 1988-91 and it appears that the species is a regular passage migrant in small numbers in the eastern islands. TREE PIPIT Anthus trivialis On 4 April 1991, 4 were observed in the littoral zone southeast of Porto Inglés (Vila do Maio), Maio. They were foraging in the extensive Zygophyllum vegetation present there. Only one previous record: one near Curral Velho, Boavista, on 20 September 1988 (Hazevoet 1990). WHITE WAGTAIL Motacilla alba On 27 January 1991, 2 were foraging near a sewage outlet at Espargo, Sal, and on 28 February 1991, one was seen at the sewage farm south of Mindelo, Sao Vicente. The only record previously was of one collected by the Blossom expedition on Sao Vicente, 30 January 1924 (Bannerman & Bannerman 1968). WHEATEAR Oenanthe oenanthe Observed twice in 1991: 2 east of Rabil, Boavista, on 19 February, and one at Terra Boa, Sal, on 27 April. There are now 9 records (November— April), 7 since 1985, confirming the earlier supposition (Hazevoet 1990) that the species is a regular winter visitor in small numbers. SPOTTED FLYCATCHER Muscicapa striata One was observed in Acacia bushes at Terra Boa, Sal, on 27 April 1991. Only one previous record: one near Porto Ferreira, Boavista, on 21 September 1988 (Hazevoet 1990). Acknowledgements I am grateful to Deirdre de Bruyn, Kees Camphuysen, Andy Louch, Lynn Miller and Kevin Morgan for providing me with their unpublished records. Bengt-Olov Stolt (Bird Ringing Centre, Swedish Museum of Natural History) kindly supplied details of a ringing recovery. In 1991, my work in the Cape Verde Islands was supported by the International Council for Bird Preservation (Netherlands section), the Dierenrampenfonds, the J. C. van der Hucht Fonds and the Martina de Beukelaar Stichting. In Cape Verde, working facilities were provided by the Instituto National de Investigagao Agraria and the Ministry of Rural Development and Fisheries. References Alexander, B. 1898a. An ornithological expedition to the Cape Verde Islands. [bis (7)4: 74-118. Alexander, B. 1898b. Further notes on the ornithology of the Cape Verde Islands. Ibis (7)4: 277-285. C. J. Hazevoet 64 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(1) Bannerman, D. A. & Bannerman, W. M. 1968. History of the Birds of the Cape Verde Islands. Birds of the Atlantic Islands. Vol. 4. Oliver & Boyd, Edinburgh. Bocage, J. V. B. du 1898. Aves do archipelago de Cabo Verde. ¥. Sc. Math. Phys. Nat. (Lisbon) Ser. 2, 5: 140-150. Frade, F. 1976. Aves do arquipélago de Cabo Verde (Colecgao do Centro de Zoologica da J.1.C.U.). Garcia de Orta, Ser.Zool. (Lisbon) 5: 47-58. Harris, M. P. & Hansen, L. 1974. Sea-bird transects between Europe and Rio Plate, South America, in autumn 1973. Dansk Orn. Foren. Tidsskr. 68: 117-137. Hartog, J. C. den 1990. Birds of the Cape Verde Islands. Notes on species observed (9 August-10 September 1986), distribution, migration, status, origin and conservation. Cour. Forsch.-Inst. Senckenberg 129: 159-190. Hazevoet, C. J. 1990. Notes on new and rare migrants in the Cape Verde Islands. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 207-212. Hazevoet, C. J. 1991. Migrant and resident waders in the Cape Verde Islands. Wader Study Group Bull., in press. Lambert, K. 1980. Beitrage zur Vogelwelt der Kapverdischen Inseln. Beitr. Vogelk. 26: 1-18. Murphy, R. C. 1924. The marine ornithology of the Cape Verde Islands, witha list of all the birds of the archipelago. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 50: 211-278. Rydzewsky, W. 1958. Aves anilladas recuperadas en las islas del Atlantico oriental. Ardeola 45: 149-155. Urban, E. K., Fry, C. H. & Keith, S. 1986. The Birds of Africa. Vol. 2. Academic Press, London. Address: Institute of Taxonomic Zoology, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 4766, 1009 AT Amsterdam, The Netherlands. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS Papers, from Club Members or non-members, should be sent to the Editor, Dr D. W. Snow, The Old Forge, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 4PD, U.K., and must be offered solely to the Bulletin. They should be typed on one side of the paper, with treble-spacing and a wide margin, and submitted in duplicate. The style and lay-out should conform with usage in this or recent issues of the Bulletin. Informants of unpublished observations should be cited by initials and name only, e.g. “‘.. . of grass (C. Dieter)”’, but ““P. Wee informs me that ...’’. A limited number of photographic illustrations in black-and-white may be published annu- ally at the Editor’s discretion. Authors are requested to give their title, initials, name and full address at the end of the paper. 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CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence about Club Meetings and on all other matters should go to the Hon. Secretary, Mrs A. M. Moore, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6JB, U.K. CONTENTS CLUBNOTICES Report ofthe Committee, Annual General Meeting, Meetings soos seus eee oe ik otis Seger NAVARRO, S., A.G., PETERSON, A. T. & ESCALANTE, P., P. New distribu- tional information on Mexican birds. I. The Sierra de Atoyac, GUeFKETO neg lass ake a oe one. FRASER, M. W., DEAN, W. R. J. & BEST, 1.C. Observations on the Inac- cessible Island Rail Atlantisia rogersi: the world’s smallest firehtless) birdie ane UG elas ei BROWNING, M. R. Comments on the nomenclature and dates of publication on some taxa in Bucerotidae................... TOMIALOJc, L. Colonization of dry habitats by the Song Thrush Turdus philomelos: is the type of nest material an important CONStrAINC HS eo ee a aie Dn ale a TARBURTON, M.K. Weights of some birds from Fiji ............. ROBERTSON, I. New information on birdsin Cameroon.......... HOWELL, S. N. G. & WEBB, S. New and noteworthy bird records from Guatemala and Honduras). $26.08) 3.022 |e eee LOUETTE,M. ‘The identification of forest Accipiters in central Africa ASH, J.S. Dark plumaged House Martins Delichon urbica in north- eastern’! Siberiai 6055.00). 2 ee ie ss TYE, A. A new subspecies of Custicola bulliens from northern Ame ola esti Cie ye re oe Coane RS aa) Bi a a ee CLANCEY, P. A. ‘The status of Corythaix reichenowi Fischer, 1880 and Corythaix cabanisi Reichenow, 1883................... HAZEVOET, C. J. Further notes on migrants in the Cape Verde Islands) 2 ews vets PhS Se Cine Ue ee ACR i Page i2 fap 27 a 36 42 50 53 5D 57) 61 The Bulletin is despatched from the printers on publication and is sent by Surface Saver Postal Services to all European destinations outside the U.K. and by Air Saver Postal Services to destinations outside Europe. Those whose subscriptions have not been received by the beginning of a month of publication will have their copies despatched by surface mail, after their current subscription has been paid. COMMITTEE R. E. F. Peal (Chairman) (1989) D. Griffin (Vice-Chairman) (1990) Dr D. W. Snow (Editor) (1991) S. J. Farnsworth ( Treasurer ) (1990) Mrs A. M. Moore (Hon. Secretary) (1989) Revd T. W. Gladwin (1990) Cdr M. B. Casement, OBE, RN (1990) Dr J. F. Monk (1991) Dr R. A. Cheke (1991) UK Data Protection Act. In order to keep records up to date and to facilitate despatch of the Bulletin names and addresses of Members and Subscribers, and no other information, are held on computer disc. If there is any objection to this please advise the Hon. Secretary in writing so that records can be deleted from the disc and stored manually. Published by the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB and printed by Henry Ling Ltd., at the Dorset Press, Dorchester, Dorset iM 6 4 | ISSN 0007-1595 363 BIEPS Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’ Club Edited by Dr D. W. SNOW Volume112 No.2 June 1992 FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Tuesday, 14 July 1992. Dr Storrs L. Olson, Curator in the Division of Birds at the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, since 1975, has an international reputation for his research in avian palaeontology. He will speak on “‘Prehistoric Birdlife of the Hawaiian Islands’’. This meet- ing has been specially arranged to take advantage of a visit to Europe by Dr Olson. We are very fortunate to have the opportunity of hearing him. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 1 Fuly 1992*. Tuesday, 28 July 1992. Dr Angela Turner, “The Hirundines: a most entertaining tribe of Birds”. Dr Turner worked on the hirun- dines for her doctorate and is the author of the text of A Handbook to the Swallows and Martins of the World. She is presently Assistant Editor of Animal Behaviour. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 14 Fuly 1992.* Tuesday, 15 September 1992. Dr W. and Dr U. Thiede, “Japan— Britain of the East?”’. Dr Walter Thiede, who gained his doctorate witha thesis on the distribution and taxonomy of the Redshank, has been a manager in the pharmaceutical industry for 26 years, 5 of which were spent in Japan. He is co-editor of Ornithologische Mitteilungen. Dr Ulrike Thiede is a zoologist and japanologist. She is a lecturer on Japanese affairs at the University of Dusseldorf. Both Dr Walter and Dr Ulrike Thiede have published books and papers on their subjects. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 1 September 1992*. The celebration of the Centenary of the Club will be held in London after mid-October. Arrangements for the special dinner to mark the occasion cannot be completed until July and will be published in the September issue of the Bulletin. Members who are likely to attend the dinner must complete the slip enclosed in this issue. Details will be sent to them as soon as they are available. Tuesday, 9 November 1992. Dr A. G. Gosler will speak on “Bill adaptations in the Great Tit—or a mandible for all seasons”. Dr Gosler’s address is based on work he began as a David Lack student in 1982. Since 1987 he has been a University Research Officer at the E.G.I. working mainly on the long-term population study of the Great Tit. Meetings are held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London SW7 at 6.15 pm. for7 pm. A plan showing Imperial College will be sent to members on request. *Late acceptances and cancellations can usually be taken up to the Thursday morning preceding a meeting, although members are asked to accept by 14 days beforehand as arrangements for meetings have to be confirmed with Imperial College well in advance. If you accept and subsequently find you are unable to attend please notify the Hon. Secretary, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 67B (tel. 0572 722788) as soon as possible as the booking can often be offered to another member. 65 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Pleanior the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 112 No. 2 Published: 24 June 1992 The eight hundred and fifteenth meeting of the Club took place in the Ante-room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London on Tuesday, 21 January 1992. 33 members and 18 guests attended. Members attending were: R. E. F. PEAL (Chairman), Mrs A. M. Moore (Hon. Secretary & speaker), M. A. Apcock, A. H. Bay tis, P. J. BELMAN, N. J. BUCKNELL, Mrs D. BRADLEY, R. C. BouGuTon, P. J. BuLL, D. R. CALDER, Dr R. CHEKE, I. D. CoLuins, P. J. CoNDER, J. H. ELcoop, S.J. FARNSworTH, G. D. FIELD, Revd T. W. GLapwin, D. GRIFFIN, C. A. RHELM, Mrs M. Mutter, J. G. Parker, N. J. REDMAN, V. SAWLE, P. J. SELLAR, R. E. SHARLAND, Dr N. SKINNER, N. H. F. Stone, M. P. Watters, M. Woopcock. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Miss J. ALEXANDER, Mrs G. BoNnHan, Mrs J. BuLL, Mrs J. CALDER, Mrs J. CELEs, Dr J. A. CoLes, D. CouNSELL, Mrs F. FARNSWORTH, Mrs J. GLapwin, Mrs S. GriFFIN, J. HarpINc, Mrs G. Harpine, A. P. LEvENTIs, P. J. Moore, B. O’Brien, Mrs E. PEaL, Mrs B. Woopcock. After supper Mrs Amberley Moore spoke on ‘Ornithology in the search for the course of the Niger’. By the end of the 17th century the coast of Guinea was well known to Europe, and there is evidence of a significant trade in wild birds between Africa and Europe at that time. Linnaeus described over 50 species of birds from the region in the 10th edition of the Systema Naturae, 1758. But the interior of West Africa and the river Niger remained known in Europe only from the writings of geographers of the ancient world and of Arabic travellers of the Middle Ages. At the beginning of the 19th century several expeditions were mounted to chart the course of the river and to open up the interior of the continent. Two expeditions, in particular, had the secondary objective of scientific exploration of West Africa—the Bornu Mission of Clapperton and Denham in 1821 and the Niger River Expedition of 1841. Both expeditions were successful in that considerable scientific collections were made. From over 100 zoological specimens collected by the Bornu Mission, there were 24 species of birds, of which 3 were new species. The collection of the Niger Expedition included 46 ornithological specimens. From these, 35 new species were described and although some have since become lost in synonomy 22 valid species and 12 races remain. The names of some of the members of what were dangerous and difficult expeditions are commemorated in the names given to some of these new discoveries. The eight hundred and sixteenth meeting of the Club was held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London on Tuesday, 18 February 1992. The attendance was 23 members and 12 guests and a guest of the Club, Dr D. Harper. Members attending were: R. E. F. Peat (Chairman), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, P. J. BELMAN, P. J. BULL, Dr J. ByNon, Cdr M. B. Casement RN, Dr R. A. Cuexe, Dr R.A. F. Cox, A. Gipps, D. Grirrin, C. A. R. Hem, Dr J. F. Monk, Mrs A. M. Moore, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mutter, P. J. OLtver, V.J. Sawie, Dr R. SELF, P. J. SELLAaR, P. WILLIAM Situ, Dr D. W. Snow, N. H. F. STONE. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Professor T. ByNon, Mrs M. Butt, Mrs B. Gipss, Revd P. van de KasTegLE, Mrs P. van de KasTEELE, P. J. Moore, Mrs M. Outver, Ms K. Horr, Mrs S. WILtiam Smit, Mrs B. SNow. After supper Dr David Harper gave the address. His subject was ‘Why is Robin at ae so variable?’ An abstract of his talk will be published in a later issue of the ulletin. F. I. Ortiz-Crespo & P. Agnew 66 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) The eight hundred and seventeenth meeting of the Club took place in the Rector’s House, Imperial College, London on Tuesday, 7 April 1992. 24 members and 10 guests attended. Members attending were: R. E. F. PEAL (Chairman), Dr C. G. VIOLANI (Speaker), M. A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, P. J. BELMAaN, Mrs D. BrapLey, D. R. CaLper, Cdr. M. B. CASEMENT RN, P. J. CoNpDER, S. J. FARNSWorRTH, Miss C.'T. FIsHer, D. GrirFIn, Revd T. W. Giapwin, C. A. R. HELm, Ms R-M. Jones, Dr A. G. KNox, Revd G. K. McCu.Ltocn, Dr J. F. Monk, D. J. Montier, Mrs A. M. Moore, R. G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mutter, J. G. Parker, M. P. WALTERS. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Mrs J. CaLpEr, Mrs F. FaRNSwortu, Mrs J. Giapwin, Mrs I. McCuttocn, Mrs N. Lippe_t, Mrs D. Monk, Mrs M. Monrtirr, P. J. Moore, P. MULLER. Members were pleased to welcome Dr Carlo Violani to speak again to the Club. He spoke on the 18th century naturalist Giovanni Antonio Scopoli and his influence on Italian ornithology. A summary of his talk will be published in a later issue of the Bulletin. The birds of La Plata Island, Ecuador by Fernando I. Ortiz-Crespo & Philip Agnew Received 11 Fune 1991 This paper has been written as a result of collaboration between the University of Bristol Isla de Plata Expedition 1990 and Dr F. Ortiz-Crespo. The expedition was formed to follow up recommendations made by Duffy & Hurtado (1984) in a paper for the International Council for Bird Preservation. These included an inventory of the island’s flora and fauna. A total of six weeks (20 July—1 September 1990) was spent on the island by six students from the University of Bristol and two students from the Pontificia Universidad Catolica, Quito. Dr F. Ortiz-Crespo visited the island on 28 July 1990 with Ben Hasse, Mariuxi Prieto and 10 others. Isla de la Plata (0°16'S, 81°06’W) is an isolated island 27 km off the Pacific coast of Manabi Province, Ecuador. It has a volcanic rock base, similar to basalt. It measures 5.5 by 2 km, and has an area of 14 km’; the highest point is 167m. The climate has two distinct seasons: from December to April/May there are high temperatures and heavy rains; the rest of the year is dry and cooler. The vegetation is permanent arid scrub, mainly xerophytic. The island is administered as part of the Machalilla National Park, based at Puerto Lopez. The only structures are a few fishermen’s shacks, a derelict hotel building on the north beach and an automatic lighthouse on the upper northwest flats. History of ornithological exploration The earliest collecting was by William B. Richardson, on assignment for the American Museum of Natural History. Chapman (1926:711) quotes Richardson, as follows: ‘‘Its slopes rise precipitously about 500 feet, forming a plateau five miles long by four at the widest part. This arid plain, cut by two ravines, is covered with thorny brush, wild cotton, cactus and a few stunted trees. In March (25th) it was parched and brown and it had not rained for months. I found 15 species of land-birds, all F.I. Ortiz-Crespo & P. Agnew 67 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(2) breeding. Birds are scarce, except the Mockingbirds, Red-breasted Starling, Ground Dove and two Flycatchers.”’ Robert C. Murphy (1936:311) records his visit there on 17 February 1925, in the middle of the rainy season. At that time the island was inhabited by a lighthouse keeper, his family, a few heads of cattle and donkeys, and “‘hundreds”’ of goats. During his visit, ‘“‘La Plata rang with bird songs, the caroling of the ‘chirote’ or Mockingbird rising above those of all the others’’. Murphy seems to have confused the Peruvian Meadowlark (chirote) with the Mockingbird (cucube, tilingo). He notes further, “‘During our wanderings we noted two tyrannids, including the Vermilion Flycatcher, ...a wren, the Military Blackbird, two species of doves and two of hawks, the Turkey Vulture, Wandering ‘Tattler, Spotted Sandpiper and Cocoi Heron—all exclusive of the oceanic species. Seven- teen kinds of land birds have been found at La Plata during March.”’ As for the sea-birds, he lists the Waved Albatross Diomedea irrorata (the skin of a bird shot by the lighthouse keeper in November 1924), Brown Pelican, Blue-footed and Masked Booby, Magnificent Frigatebird and Kelp and Laughing Gulls. The two hawks (species?) and the heron have not been recorded before or since, but it should be noted that the rainy season of 1925 was so copious that the island was covered by a lush carpet of herbs, vines and grasses, so environmental conditions might have favoured the wanderings of strong-flying birds. An idea of the vegetation of La Plata in February 1925 can be obtained from Murphy’s photographs (Plate 20 of his Volume I). Oscar T. Owre (1976) first reported that the Waved Albatross, known before to nest only on Isla Espanola, Galapagos, also bred at La Plata. Following earlier leads provided by the only resident there (the island’s caretaker, Sr. Intriago), he visited the island on 31 December 1974, and observed two displaying albatrosses near Punta Machete. On a later visit (15-17 May 1975), Owre found five birds tending their single eggs. His guide reported that the albatrosses had bred there every year during his 8-year stay on La Plata and had reportedly started doing so “‘four years prior to his residence’. In addition toa large goat population, Owre stated that cats and rats were present, and that the Masked Booby colony was regularly ‘“‘plundered for eggs and young’’. His report does not mention other bird species. M. Hurtado was on the island in April 1981 and saw nine adult albatrosses. His assistants reported seeing some 30 individuals later in the season. W. L. N. Tickell briefly visited the island on 20—21 May 1988 and only found one adult incubating an egg. Intensive searching of the surrounding two hectares failed to find any others. In addition to the albatrosses, the island also hosts the only colony of the Galapagos sea lion Zalophus californianus wollebaecki outside the archipelago. Nowak (1987) reports a colony of 12 individuals. Sr. Intriago, who knew La Plata for over 35 years, estimated that there may have been a population of over 50 in previous years. They had been there for as long as he could remember. During our visit only 4 individ- uals were seen, 3 adults and 1 juvenile. An immature Galapagos sea lion appeared near Bahia de Caraquez, Manabi, in March 1981 (Ortiz-Crespo 1981). FI. Ortiz-Crespo & P. Agnew 68 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) The estimated goat population of 300 (Nowak 1987) has recently been culled by the National Parks authority. There still remains an estimated population of 40—70, including adults and immatures. Other mammals on the island include small breeding populations of feral cats and rats. Bats were also seen around the area of the hotel building. Several reptile species and a scorpion were also collected and deposited at the Catolica University Natural History Museum. Previous reports of fishermen taking gorgonians or ‘black coral’ (W. L. N. Tickell) and the plundering of Masked Booby Sula dactylatra colonies (Owre 1976) are confirmed by our observations. The slaughter of a turtle on the beach, by fishermen, was prevented by us. When questioned the fishermen said there were many turtles in the area which they caught for eating. Systematic list The following is an annotated list of the birds found or presumed to be present on the island. Asterisks indicate new records for La Plata. WAVED ALBATROSS Diomedea irrorata In total 28 albatrosses (22 adults, including 10 pairs, and 6 juveniles) were found. The juveniles ranged from small downy young to much larger ones. Most of the colony was situated just north of Punta Machete in dense vegetation. One pair and chick were found on the upper, flatter part of the island towards Punta Machete, showing that dense colonies are not indispensable for successful breeding. The colony’s history is too fragmentary to ascertain when it first became established or its yearly cycle of events. The absence of albatross records by Richardson in March 1914 might indicate that the birds did not regularly breed then. Murphy visited La Plata at almost the same time of year, in February 1925, but since the rains were heavy and the island was overgrown by vegetation as a result, it is not surprising that he did not see any evidence of albatrosses other than the lighthouse keeper’s speci- men taken in November 1924. When the Galapagos suffered similar rains in 1982-1983 the large albatross colony there failed to breed (Rechten 1985). Owre saw displaying birds in December 1974 and incubating individ- uals the following May, when he learned from an Ecuadorian resident that the island’s colony had bred yearly for the previous eight years and started doing so around 1963. This would correspond with the period in the 1960s when for several years virtually no young were reared on Espanola, Galapagos (Harris 1969). Nowak (op. cit.) was at La Plata in October 1985, and reported that he saw only two pairs then. He also found a dead bird that he presumed had been killed by visiting fishermen. Nowak stated that ‘“‘the breeding seasons of the [La Plata] albatrosses . . . synchronize with those in the Galapagos’’, and our sighting of large downy young in July 1990 is consistent with an April-June egg-laying period, as in the Galapagos (Harris 1973). Tickell’s count may have been low because most of those found in 1990 were not on the upper flats, where he searched, but on the lower plateau. FI. Ortiz-Crespo & P. Agnew 69 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) It would be worthwhile to map the occupied breeding sites and monitor this isolated population, which is separated by over 1000 km from the main population breeding on Espanola. A banding programme should be undertaken at La Plata as soon as possible WHITE-VENTED STORM-PETREL Oceanites gracilis Nowak (op. cit.) briefly mentions the presence of this species in (or near?) the island in October 1985. RED-BILLED TROPICBIRD Phaethon aethereus Fifteen nest sites were discovered on the south-facing cliffs. The birds were vocalizing most of the time and seen flying in groups of 2—3. The largest single observation from a cliff edge was of 40 individuals. Murphy (1936) says that La Plata is ‘“‘probably the southernmost breeding station of the Red-billed Tropic-bird on the west coast of South America’’. BROWN PELICAN Pelecanus occidentalis Groups of up to 46 were seen throughout our stay. Many of those seen were immatures; some had moulted to winter plumage. *RED-FOOTED BOOBY Sula sula A small breeding colony was found, occupying two bushes within the Masked Booby colony at Punta Escalera. Of the 20 individuals seen, 13 were adults (all of the brown morph), 5 juveniles and 2 chicks. This substantiates that La Plata has the only colony of this species breeding in the entire eastern Pacific other than the one in the Galapagos. BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY Sula nebouxii These are widespread over the island, both on the cliff faces and inland. In contrast to those breeding in the Galapagos, they seem much more wary of humans. We estimated a population of 3000, based upon three simultaneous dawn counts on both the coastal and inland areas. We also checked that the counts were not affected by movement of birds between the two areas. MASKED BOOBY Sula dactylatra We found three separate colonies: at Punta Escalera, within the Magnificent Frigatebird colony, and at Punta Machete. A series of three dawn counts was made at each colony and the number of active nests and eggs was recorded, with the following results: Punta Escalera, 254 adults, 162 nest sites (60 with 1 egg, 102 with 2 eggs); frigatebird colony, 71 adults, 3 nest sites (none with eggs); Punta Machete, 399 adults, 18 nest sites (7 with 1 egg, 11 with 2 eggs). *OLIVACEOUS CORMORANT Phalacrocorax olivaceus One was present in mid-August. It was seen several times with Blue-footed Boobies perched on rocks, along the shore. This is acommon species along the southern Manabi coast. MAGNIFICENT FRIGATEBIRD Fregata magnificens There is a large colony along the northern coast between Punta Palo Santo and Punta Escalera. From a series of dusk counts made as the birds came in to roost, the population was estimated at 2598 individuals. We observed a downy chick, dependent juveniles, immatures and adults, F. I. Ortiz-Crespo & P. Agnew 70 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) indicating that they were breeding. Previous accounts have mentioned frigatebirds as present but not breeding on the island (Murphy 1936, Hurtado 1981). Chapman (1926) gives the breeding range as extending south to Santa Clara Island in the Gulf of Guayaquil. WHITE-NECKED HERON Ardea coco1 Murphy’s sighting is the only record. TURKEY VULTURE Cathartes aura The Black Vulture Coragyps atratus is abundant along the local coastal villages, but none were seen on the island. The Turkey Vultures on the island seemed to get their main food supply from fishermen gutting their catches on the beach. They were also seen feeding on Masked Booby eggs and fish regurgitated by the boobies. A maximum of 53 were recorded at one time. The race reported from La Plata by Chapman (1926), based on one female specimen, is C. aura jota of the ‘“‘“Southern Temperate Zone”’ which ranges south to Chile. Some individuals at La Plata could be wintering austral migrants, but two eggs in an old nest we found may indicate that not all the birds are migrants. *PLUMBEOUS KITE Ictinia plumbea One individual was recorded. It died on the island, presumably from cold and exhaustion. The specimen is now in the collection of the Machalilla National Park. Jorge Macias reports having seen one s1x months earlier on the island. SPOTTED SANDPIPER Actitis macularia In mid-August one was recorded on the northern beach; it was also seen on other areas of the littoral fringe. WANDERING TATTLER Heteroscelus incanus One was observed along the northern beach in mid-August. Chapman (1926) reports a specimen taken at La Plata on 11 February. KELP GULL Larus dominicanus LAUGHING GULL Larus atricilla Recorded only by Murphy (1936) EARED DOVE Zenaida auriculata Chapman (1926) recorded one unsexed Eared Dove collected at La Plata. This very wide-ranging dove may still occur, as Jorge Macias reported that a dove with white-tipped feathers occurred on the island in addition to smaller wholly dark-tailed ground doves (Columbinacruziana). CROAKING GROUND DOVE Columbina cruziana These were commonly seen, especially in the interior. Chapman (1926) recorded 1 male and 2 females taken by Richardson on the island. *GROOVE-BILLED ANI Crotophaga sulcirostris One was observed alive on the island and one partial corpse was also discovered, presumably devoured by feral cats or rats. They are common on the adjacent mainland. FI. Ortiz-Crespo & P. Agnew 71 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) SHORT-TAILED WOODSTAR Myrmia micrura Commonly seen and heard. Aerial displays of territorial birds were seen in mid-August. Chapman (1926) lists 1 male and 2 female specimens from the island. SHORT-TAILED FIELD TYRANT Muscigralla brevicauda Chapman (1926) recorded 1 female specimen taken by Richardson. Isla de La Plata is at the northern limit of the range, which extends south along the coast to northern Chile. VERMILION FLYCATCHER Pyrocephalus rubinus Immatures and adults were frequently seen around the island. No melanistic individuals were seen, despite there being a polymorphic population along the Ecuadorian/Peruvian arid coast. Chapman (1926) lists 3 males and 2 females taken at La Plata. HOUSE WREN Tyoglodytes aedon Those seen were mainly in the undergrowth behind the hotel building. Chapman (1926) recorded 1 male, 4 females and 1 unsexed specimen collected by Richardson on the island. LONG-TAILED MOCKINGBIRD Mimus longicaudatus platensis This slightly differentiated insular race is the island’s only endemic form (Chapman 1924). It is common all over the island. PERUVIAN MEADOWLARK Sturnella bellicosa Seen mainly on flat land towards Escalera and at higher elevations. Chapman (1926) recorded 4 males and 1 female specimen collected from the island. According to Richardson, it was one of the most common land birds he encountered. COLLARED WARBLING-FINCH Poospiza hispaniolensis Common all over the island, especially near human activity. Chapman (1926) lists 11 males and 5 females taken on the island by Richardson. *YELLOW GROSBEAK Pheucticus chrysopeplus One individual was seen over a period of three days (24-27 August), mainly in the area of the lighthouse. *HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus Seen only twice, among Collared Warbling-finches. House Sparrows are common on the adjacent mainland. A comparison of the La Plata and Galapagos avifaunas Espanola in the Galapagos and La Plata share the Waved Albatross, but it is striking that no island in the Galapagos possesses colonies of all three booby species within sight of each other as La Plata does. The Magnificent Frigatebird colony at La Plata seems larger than any in the Galapagos with the possible exception of the colony on Isla Genovesa (where, incidentally, the only Great Frigatebird Fregata minor colony known in the eastern Pacific is found). On the other hand, no shearwaters and only one species of storm-petrel have been found on La Plata, while there are at least three resident species of procellariids and two of storm-petrels reported from the Galapagos (Harris 1974). La Plata has F. 1. Ortiz-Crespo & P. Agnew 72 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) no resident egrets, but Lava Herons Butorides sundevalli and Yellow- crowned Night Herons Nyctanassa violacea occur on most Galapagos islands, perhaps reflecting their complex shoreline structure, with mangrove patches and tidal pools. Regarding land birds, the most striking similarities are the presence of (a) single mockingbird species on single Galapagos islands and La Plata, and (b) two syntopic tyrannid species (the Vermilion Flycatcher and the endemic Myzarchus magnirostris) on the former and two also on La Plata (where the latter species is replaced by Muscigralla brevicauda). The most pronounced difference is that, with the exception of the smallest and remotest islands in the Galapagos such as Darwin and Wolf, all of the Galapagos have more than a single species of finch per island, but only the Collared Warbling-finch occurs at La Plata. It is also worth noting that only one dove species is found throughout the Galapagos, the endemic Zenaida galapagoensis, whereas two species have been recorded from La Plata. However, one of these, the Eared Dove, has recently been seen in the Galapagos, at Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island (J. Black, pers. comm.). In the Galapagos, other important differences are the absence of vultures (perhaps replaced by the endemic Galapagos Hawk Buteo galapagoensis, which sometimes feeds on carrion), hummingbirds, wrens and icterids. In contrast, all the Galapagos islands have the Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia and the larger islands also the Dark-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus melacoryphus. The absence of these two from La Plata is not surprising, in view of the lack of mangroves and other arborescent shore vegetation. No resident rails, owls, nor gulls occur on La Plata, while one or two rails, one or two owls and two gulls breed on all the main islands of the Galapagos. Until systematic bird observations at La Plata have been made over several years little more can be said. Knowledge about the Galapagos is derived from the efforts of hundreds of professional and amateur observers who have created what is essentially a complete bird list. Wet season records are badly needed at La Plata, when one can expect the number of bird species to increase and nesting records to be more representative. It is not impossible that some extinctions have occurred at La Plata, subject as it has been to the combined depredations of people, domestic animals and rats from 1925 to 1975 at least. During our walks we observed dozens of orifices resembling petrel burrows on the flatter areas of the island. It would be interesting to dig out some of them, to ascertain the presence of old bones or feather and eggshell remains, as petrels could have fallen victim to rats and cats as they still do in the Galapagos and other islands. It is also likely that human occupation caused not only overgrazing by cattle, donkeys and goats, but also clearing of woody vegetation for fuel. The small goat population has now been reduced to just a few individuals. Fortunately, La Plata is becoming popular for nature tourists because of its spectacular bird life, because not only sea- lions but breaching Humpback Whales are easily seen around the island for part of the year, and because the neighbouring coast is now accessible by a permananent road. This should help draw attention to conservation needs within the protected Machalilla National Park, and undoubtedly contribute towards gathering more scientific information. FI. Ortiz-Crespo &S P. Agnew 73 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(2) Acknowledgements The expedition members were P. Agnew, J. Ashworth, M. A. Carrera, P. Harvey, A. Langsdale, G. Romero, A. Stanford and E. Winsor-Cundell. We thank Dr W. L. N. Tickell, Dr T. de Vries, Dr B. Olgaard, R. Williams and J. Tobias for their advice and help. The study was supported by DOW Chemicals, Sea-Fresh Watermaker Systems, the Royal Geographical Society, the British Ecological Society and the University of Bristol. F. Ortiz-Crespo’s trip was facilitated by the Ecuadorian Protected Natural Area Department of the National Forest Directorate (DINAF). We are especially thankful to Jorge Macias, Machalilla National Park official, for making the boat arrangements and guiding our group. Mariuxi Prieto, Director of the Ecuadorian Foundation for the Study of Marine Mammals, invited F. Ortiz-Crespo to participate in the visit on 28 July 1990. References: Chapman, F. M. 1924. Descriptions of new birds from Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia. dm. Mus. Novit. no. 143. Chapman, F. M. 1926. The distribution of bird-life in Ecuador. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 55. Duffy, D. C. & Hurtado, M. 1984. The Conservation and Status of Sea-birds of the Ecuador Mainland. 1CBP Technical Publication IT. Harris, M. P. 1969. Age at breeding and other observations on the Waved Albatross Diomedea irrorata. Ibis 111: 97-98. Harris, M. P. 1973. The biology of the Waved Albatross Diomedea irrorata of Hood Island, Galapagos. Jbis 115: 483-510. Harris, M. P. 1974. A Field Guide to the Birds of the Galapagos. Collins, London. Hurtado, M. 1981. Informe preliminar sobre La Isla de la Plata. Instituto Nacional de Pesca, Guayaquil. Murphy, R. C. 1936. Oceanic Birds of South America. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., New York. Nowak, J. B. 1987. Isla de la Plata and the Galapagos. Noticias de Galapagos 44: 17. Ortiz-Crespo, F. I. 1981. Animal Ilegado a Bahia no es foca. El Universo, Guayaquil, sec. 2, Dale Owre, O. T. 1976. A second breeding colony of Waved Albatrosses Diomedea irrorata. Ibis 118: 419-420. Rechten, C. 1985. The Waved Albatross in 1983—E] Nino leads to complete breeding failure. Pp. 227-237 in G. Robinson & E. del Pino (eds), El Nivo in the Galapagos Islands: The 1982-1983 Event. Charles Darwin Foundation for the Galapagos Islands, Quito. Addresses: Dr. F. 1. Ortiz-Crespo, Departmento de Biologia, Pontificia Universidad Cato- lica del Ecuador, Av. 12 de Octubre, entre Av. Patria y Veintimilla, Apartado 2184, Quito, Ecuador. P. Agnew, Squirrels’ Drey, Higher Broad Oak Road, Westhill, Ottery St. Mary, Devon EX11 1XJ, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 ADDENDUM. When this paper was in press, Dr Ortiz-Crespo was informed of three new records for Isla La Plata obtained by Dr Tjitte de Vries, who visited the island on 8-11 January 1992: Striated Heron Butorides striatus (common resident on the adjacent mainland coast), Osprey Pandion haliaetus (common boreal migrant to the mainland), and Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus (regular boreal migrant to the mainland). C.F. R. Robertson & F. Warham 74 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Nomenclature of the New Zealand Wandering Albatrosses Diomedea exulans by C. J. R. Robertson & Fohn Warham Received 18 Fune 1991 The Wandering Albatrosses breeding in the New Zealand sub-region have customarily been classified as of the typical race Diomedea exulans exulans. 'This is evidently because Salvin (1896) believed that the type drawing, plate 88 in George Edward’s Natural History of Birds (1747), best fitted a New Zealand bird. However, the type locality designated by Linnaeus (1758) is between the tropics and the Cape of Good Hope, as pointed out by Bourne (1989). The identity of Linnaeus’ bird seems to be indeterminable (Robertson 1986) but it is unlikely that it came from New Zealand. We have no evidence that New Zealand birds reach the Cape; rather the contrary for, as recoveries of banded birds and other evidence are showing, New Zealand populations seem restricted to the Pacific Ocean and probably do not circumnavigate the world. We do not agree with the proposal of Bourne (1989) that the small “‘intermediate”’ popu- lation of the Auckland Islands should be lumped with the large birds from other subantarctic islands (usually classified as D. e. chionoptera) under the name D. e. exulans. Another of his ‘“‘intermediate’’ populations (from Antipodes and Campbell Islands) he leaves unnamed. Therefore we propose to erect two new subspecies, one for the small dark birds that breed at Antipodes and Campbell Islands and the other for the small, pale and early-laying population of the Auckland Islands. Other existing names are unsuitable. Diomedea exulans rothschildi Mathews, 1912 is too large a bird to have come from either population (bill 166 mm, wing 650 (worn); tail 190; tarsus 121; Gibson Plumage Score 14). Diomedea exulans rohui Mathews, 1915 is bigger and paler (bill 171 mm; wing in moult; tail 206; tarsus 122; Gibson Plumage Score 20.5). Both these specimens fit the characters of the high-latitude race D. e. chionoptera Salvin. Gibson Plumage Scores refer to a scale for coding the plumages of Wandering Albatrosses devised by Gibson (1967) in which the darkness of head, back, inner upperwing and tail are scored and totalled to give a range from 4 to 21. The lighter the plumage the higher the score—see also Warham (1990, p. 24). In the measurements given here the wing was flattened on a stopped rule. Diomedea exulans antipodensis subsp. nov. Holotype. Adult female, National Museum of New Zealand (NMNZ) 23412. Central plateau, Antipodes Island, collected by C. J. R. Robertson 3 March 1985. Allotype. Adult male, NMNZ 23411, paired with NMNZ 23412. Central Plateau, Antipodes Island, collected by C. J. R. Robertson 3 March 1985. C.F. R. Robertson & F. Warham 75 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Paratype. British Museum Natural History (BMNH) 1905.12.30.404, a male taken at the nest but not on egg, at Antipodes Island on 15 January 1903, given to Edward Wilson by Captain Hutton at Christchurch. Other paratypes are: male, NMNZ 21374, collected Antipodes I. 24 November 1978 by C. J. R. Robertson; female, BMNH 1938.4.11.1, collected by N. T. Corbett at Campbell I. on 28 January 1938; and female, NMNZ 21373, collected at Antipodes I. on 24 November 1978 by C. J. R. Robertson. Specimens examined. 9 skins from Antipodes I. and 5 from Campbell I., together with 128 live birds measured on the breeding grounds. Distribution. Breeds only at Antipodes and Campbell Islands. Range at sea: to southern and eastern Australian seas and the south Pacific Ocean to the west coast of South America. Description of holotype (Fig. 1, A & B; Fig. 2, A& D) (a) Upperparts. Forehead and cheeks white. Crown with uniform dark brown feathers fading into slightly paler brown nape and jugulum. Nape appears mottled due to exposed white bases of the feathers, e.g. as shown in plate 2 of Warham & Bell (1979) and p. 59 in Robertson (1985). Mantle, scapulars, back, rump and tail coverts blackish-brown, feathers slightly paler at edges. Tail sooty black. Wing blackish-brown, exposed primaries darker, coverts slightly paler and concolorous with back. (b) Underparts. ‘Throat white, rather sharply separated from pale chocolate-brown sides of neck and upper breast but witha band c. 15 mm wide of whitish feathers lightly speckled with brown between the two. Upper breast covered with chocolate-brown feathers whose pale edges create a slight scaled effect, the whole forming a bold brown apron c. 185 mm deep in the midline. On the lower breast this apron merges into the white belly via an intermediate zone c. 80 mm deep of white feathers lightly vermiculated with brownish-grey zigzag bats and grey speckles, the bars 5-7 mm apart. Belly white. More heavily vermiculated feathers extend down the flanks, onto the thighs and towards the upper tail coverts. Lower belly white, lightly speckled with grey-brown and faint vermiculations, heavier towards the vent. Vent covered by chocolate- brown feathers. Under tail coverts pale at bases but exposed parts grey- brown, unbarred and dark at their tips. Tail feathers blackish-brown. Wing white except for exposed sooty black of primaries and edging, c. 10 mm wide, of sooty black coverts from the carpal flexure to the base of the outermost primary. (c) Gibson Plumage Score. 4.5 (head 1, back 1.5, wing 1, tail 1). (d) Soft parts. Dark suffusion throughout the mandibular unguis. (e) Measurements. Bill length 149 mm; wing 640 (worn); tail 200; tarsus 112; middle toe & claw 169; head width 60; weight 5.7 kg. Description of allotype (Fig. 1, A & B; Fig. 2, A & B) (a) Upper parts. Forehead and cheeks white. Crown white but with blackish-brown feathers forming a cap separated from the nape by white, lightly vermiculated feathers. Mantle and back white, with bold zigzag barrings of blackish-brown. Lower back, rump and tail coverts paler than back but extensively vermiculated throughout. Tail sooty black, some rectrices lightly tipped with whitish. Wing blackish-brown with white bases to coverts and white-freckled coverts exposed at humeral flexure. C. J. R. Robertson & F. Warham 76 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Scapulars and lesser coverts white heavily vermiculated with brown and merging with the similar patterned mantle. (b) Under parts. Throat white, extending further down breast than in holotype and not sharply marked off from the heavily barred feathers of the upper breast because of an intervening zone c. 60 mm deep of white feathers with grey brown vermiculations about 10mm apart. Breast white, the feathers crossed by grey-brown vermiculations and dusted with dark brown spots creating a pale, grey-brown apron. The zigzag barrings on the breast spreading onto the white feathers on the sides of the nape, and to the flanks and thighs, the latter with bars c. 2 mm wide and c. 10 mm apart. Feathers around vent white but lightly vermiculated, tail coverts white and strongly vermiculated like the thighs. Tail blackish- brown, lateral rectrices mainly white except for blackish tips or black along their narrow vanes. Wing white except for sooty black primaries and a few dark feathers along the leading edge from the carpal joint outwards. (c) Gibson Plumage Score. 10 (head 4, back 3.5, wing 1.5, tail 1). (d) Soft parts. Posterior half of mandibular unguis suffused with blackish. (e) Measurements. Bill length 152 mm; wing 652; tail 204; tarsus 113; middle toe & claw 170; head width 66; weight 8.3 kg. Diagnosis. Adult females are distinguished from all other populations of exulans by their dark brown plumage except for the face, lower belly and underwing, a pattern that resembles the immature plumage of other subspecies. Adult males are distinguished from D. e. chionoptera Salvin, 1896 by their smaller size and shorter bill, but not readily separated from many adult D. e. gibsoni n. subsp. on size or plumage pattern except that the cap of antipodensis is usually more pronounced and the upperwing has less white showing at the humeral flexure. Some adult Tristan da Cunha and Gough Island birds, D. e. dabbenena Mathews, 1929, resemble male antipodensis but are shorter-winged. From the recently described small, dark albatross D. amsterdamensis Roux et al., 1983, D. e. antipodensis appears to differ in lacking a prominent black cutting edge to the upper tomia of the bill and in having a smaller black mark along the leading edge of the base of the underwing. Diomedea amsterdamensis also lays in the first half of March, much later than birds of the New Zealand region, which have no known contact with members of that form. New Zealand Wandering Albatrosses do not appear to reach the Indian Ocean sector. Etymology. antipodensis = antipodean. Diomedea exulans gibsoni subsp. nov. Holotype. Adult male, NMNZ 23375. Astrolabe Point, Adams Island, Auckland Group, collected by C. J. R. Robertson 15 February 1985. Allotype. Adult female, NMNZ 18110. Adams Island, collected by B. D. Bell 5 January 1973. Paratypes. NMNZ 23374 male, collected Adams I. 15 February 1985 by C. J. R. Robertson; and NMNZ 18109 male, collected Adams I. 5 January 1973 by B. D. Bell. We know of no skins of females suitable as paratypes. 77 Bull. B.O.C..1992 112(2) C. $. R. Robertson & F#. Warham Figure 1. C.F. R. Robertson S F. Warham 78 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Figure 2. C.F. R. Robertson & F. Warham 79 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(2) Specimens examined. 5 skins from the Auckland Islands together with 70 live birds measured on the breeding grounds. Distribution. Breeds only at the Auckland Islands, on Adams and Dis- appointment Islands and on the main island of that group. Ranges at sea to southern and eastern Australia and the western south Pacific Ocean. Description of holotype (Fig. 1, C & D; Fig. 2, B& C) (a) Upperparts. Forehead and cheeks white. Crown with a few grey- tipped feathers; otherwise this and the nape are white witha slight dusting of greyish. Mantle and back white, the feathers crossed by dark grey- brown vermiculations c. 8 mm apart; similarly-patterned feathers extend to the scapular region onto the inner wing and down the sides of the nape. Lower back, rump and tail coverts white very lightly barred with darker zigzag markings. Tail tipped with dark brown but inner vanes of rectrices edged with white which extends to the tips in the lateral feathers. Primaries and their coverts sooty black; many white, faintly vermiculated feathers exposed at the humeral flexure forming a bold white patch. Secondaries blackish-brown with much white on their inner vanes. Coverts and scapulars extensively fringed with whitish. (b) Underparts. Throat, cheeks and sides of neck white, shading into the pale upper breast where the feathers are lightly vermiculated and dusted with grey to form a faint grey apron c. 175 mm deep in the midline. This apron itself shades into the white of the lower breast and belly and out to the flanks and thighs whose white feathers are faintly crossed with zigzag vermiculations, more pronounced on the thighs and widely separated, c.9mm apart. Feathers in vent area white, very slightly dusted with grey. Undertail coverts white. Rectrices white, ‘the central ones tipped brown, the lateral ones tipped white but with their inner vanes carrying browh splotches or vermiculations, the outermost being the palest. Underwing white except for the black primaries. (c) Gibson Plumage Score. 15 (head 5, back 4.5, wing 3.5, tail 2). (d) Soft parts. Base of mandibular unguis and inter-ramicorn with trace of dark blackish-brown. (e) Measurements. Bill length 152 mm; wing 651; tail 204; tarsus 114; middle toe & claw 162; head width 62; weight 6.6 kg. Description of allotype (Fig. 1, C & D; Fig. 2, C & D) (a) Upperparts. Forehead and supraorbital area white. Crown white, but brownish-grey tips to the feathers create a light grey cap which merges into the paler neck whose feathers are white dusted and streaked with brownish-grey. Nape, mantle and back white, heavily vermiculated with brownish-grey. Lower back and tail coverts are whiter as the barrings are less pronounced. Tail blackish-brown. Upperwing dark brown in the middle and outer segments due to the blackish-brown primaries, dark Figure 1. A & B: Diomedea exulans antipodensis. Male 23411 (left) & female 23412 (right). C & D: Diomedea exulans gibsoni. Male 23375 (left) & female 18110 (right). Figure 2. A: Diomedea exulans antipodensis. Male 23411 & female 23412. B: Males: D. e. gibsoni 23375 (left) & antipodensis 23411 (right). C: D. e. gibsoni. Male 23375 & female 18110. D: Females: D. e. gibsoni 18110 (left) & antipodensis 23412 (right). C.F. R. Robertson & F. Warham 80 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) brown exposed vanes of the secondaries and dark brown coverts in these segments. At the humeral flexure some of the pale bases of the brown coverts are exposed creating a pale patch in this region. The inner (humeral) segment is paler, the coverts being white very strongly ver- miculated with brownish bars so that the wing merges into the similarly patterned scapulars and mantle. (b) Underparts. Throat and cheeks white. Upper breast feathers white marked with narrow grey zigzag bars and small greyish spots to form a grey apron c. 170 mm deep in the midline and not strongly marked off from the white throat and belly. Vermiculations are bolder on sides of the upper breast and on the flanks and extend to the feathers of the thighs, being c. 170 mm apart. Vent area white lightly dusted and barred with brownish-grey, exposed tail coverts white with strong vermiculations. Rectrices greyish-brown. (c) Gibson Plumage Score. 11.5 (head 4.5, back 4, wing 2, tail 1). (d) Soft parts. Mandibular unguis blotched with blackish marks. (e) Measurements. Bill length 143.5 mm; wing 616; tail 194; tarsus 106. Diagnosis. Differs from adult D. e. chionoptera in being smaller in. all dimensions and from adult D. e. dabbenena in being longer-winged (Warham et al., in prep.). Adults have much paler plumage than antipodensis of the same sex, so that adult female gibsoni may resemble adult male antipodensis, whereas male gibsoni are much paler than any male antipodensis which have darker caps and tails and show little if any white at the humeral flexure. Etymology. Named for the late J. D. ‘Doug’ Gibson who, over many years, helped unravel the colour phases of the thousands of Wandering Albatrosses that he banded off New South Wales. Remarks. The types have been selected as far as possible to be represen- tative of their breeding populations and sexes. For example the Gibson Plumage Scores (means+S.D.) show, for antipodensis: 23411 male 9.0, population mean (43 males) 8.7 + 1.6 (5.5—11.5); 23412 female 4.5, popu- lation mean (45 females) 4.4+0.5 (4-6); and for gibsont: 23375 male 15, population mean (12 males) 14.2+2.4 (10.5—-19); 18110 female 11.5, population mean (9 females) 10.2 +1.5 (7.5-12). A few birds at Disappointment Island breed in darker plumage than the other gibsoni there and may be indistinguishable from antipodensis. One extremely pale ‘snowy’ bird has been recorded at Adams Island (Bailey & Sorensen 1952, p. 143f): no such birds have been seen at Antipodes Island among the hundreds of Wandering Albatrosses examined there. In their brown juvenal plumage birds of any of the small populations seem, on present knowledge, indistinguishable, but young chionoptera would be larger than young New Zealand birds. Colours of the legs and particularly of the bill change with the season and activity, and there seems to be little correlation between bill colour in life and that after death. The only feature that consistently persists is dark marks or suffusions on the nails, as noted in the above descriptions. Acknowledgements We are grateful to W. C. Clark and R. L. C. Pilgrim for advice on taxonomic matters, W.R. P. Bourne for helpful comments, and the directors and staff of the British Museum B.L. Monroe fr. S M. R. Browning 81 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) (Natural History), the American Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of New Zealand and the Vienna Museum of Natural History for access to specimens in their care. References: Bailey, A. M. & Sorensen, J. H. 1952. Subantarctic Campbell Island. Denver Mus. Nat. Hist. Proc. 10: 1-305. Bourne, W. R. P. 1989. The evolution, classification and nomenclature of the great albatrosses. Gerfaut 79: 105-116. Edwards, G. 1747. A Natural History of Birds. Part IJ. Author. Gibson, J. D. 1967. The Wandering Albatross (Diomedea exulans): results of banding and observations in New South Wales coastal waters and the Tasman Sea. Notornis 14: 45-57. Mathews, G. M. 1912. The Birds of Australia. Vol. 2. Witherby. Mathews, G. M. 1915. Additions and corrections to my list of the birds of Australia. Austral. Avian Rec. 2: 123-133. Robertson, C. J. R. (Ed.). 1985. Complete book of New Zealand birds. Readers Digest. Robertson, C. J. R. 1986. Abstract 543. XIX Congr. Int. Orn. Abstracts. Roux, J.-P., Jouventin, P., Mougin, J.-L., Stahl, J.-C. & Weimerskirch, H., 1983. Un nouvel albatros Diomedea amsterdamensis n. sp. découvert sur l‘ile Amsterdam (37°50'S, 77°35’E). Oiseau 53: 1-11. Salvin, O. 1896. Order XIV. Tubinares. Catalogue Birds of the British Museum. Vol. 25. Warham, J. 1990. The Petrels: their ecology and breeding systems. Academic Press. Warham, J. & Bell, B. D. 1979. The birds of Antipodes Island. Notornis 26: 121-169. Warham, J., Robertson, C. J. R., Gibson, J. D. & Jenkins, J. in prep. The Wandering Albatrosses of Australia and New Zealand. Address: C. J. R. Robertson, Science & Research Division, Dept. of Conservation, P.O. Box 10-420 Wellington, New Zealand; J. Warham, Zoology Dept., University of Canterbury, Christchurch 1, New Zealand. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 A re-analysis of Butorides by Burt L. Monroe, fr. S M. Ralph Browning Received 23 Fune 1991 Payne (1974) examined a massive series of specimens of the Butorides striatus complex that included 837 New World specimens, of which 72 were from Panama; these were assembled from the collections of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), Field Museum of Natural History (FMNH), the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology (UMMZ) and the National Museum of Natural History (USNM). From this study emerged the analysis by Payne (1974), in which he developed a hybrid index for neck colour, the single variable that appeared to separate B. virescens (Linnaeus, 1758) from B. striatus (Linnaeus, 1758). Because of the intermediate nature of specimens from Panama and the southern Lesser Antilles, Payne recommended that the two taxa be lumped into a single species, B. striatus, as reflected by his treatment in Peters (1979: 219-226) in which he considered the complex as a single species, Ardeola striata. Payne (1974: 82) based his taxonomic conclusions on specimens that he ranked by comparison with a hybrid index established from a series B.L. Monroe fr. S M. R. Browning 82 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) TABLE 1 Hybrid index of voucher specimens listed by Payne (1974: 82) Specimen Hybrid catalogue Colour index Specimen locality index number (as described by (Panama, unless country given (category) (USNM) Payne 1974) in square brackets) 1 263848 grey Culata [Venezuela] 2 423096 grey, tinge brown Charco del Toro, Panama prov. 3 444948 grey, wash brown Rio Indio, Chilar, Colon 4 400113 brownish grey Pese, Herrera 5 448634 greyish brown La Jagua, Chico, Panama prov. 6 368472 greyish red-brown Puerto Lopéz, Guajira [Colombia] di 206343 reddish brown Rio Indio, Colon 8 316840 purplish brown Cocos Island [Costa Rica] 9 468699 dark purplish brown Almirante, Bocas del Toro of nine specimens (hereafter termed ‘“‘voucher specimens’’) in the USNM. These specimens, each with its hybrid index (hereafter termed ““category’’), USNM number, neck colour, and locality, are listed in Table 1. Altough Payne (op. cit.) reported that he excluded specimens that had not completed most or all their postjuvenal molt, two of the voucher specimens (5 and 6), as well as some of the other specimens he listed in his tables, are whitish below as in the typical juvenal plumage. The brownish feathers of the tibia of these two voucher specimens are marked with indistinct blackish horizontal ‘bars’, a condition found in all white-bellied juvenal virescens. Voucher specimen 6 also resembles many juveniles of virescens in its more orange (less reddish) neck and cheeks; although Payne (1974: 81) indicated that the voucher specimens formed a “smoothly graded series ranging from grey through brown and maroon”’ the series is clearly interrupted by the colour in voucher specimen 6. The chestnut colour of this specimen extends from the tip of the feather barbs to the shaft, as is the case in adults (and voucher specimens) in categories 7-9. The variation in the brownish colour of specimens 2—5 is unrelated to intensity or shade but is dependent primarily upon the number of brownish barbs on an otherwise greyish neck; furthermore, the brownish colour of the barbs does not extend to the shaft in these specimens. Payne (1974: 85) believed that the identity of birds in categories 4-6 would be arbitrary, but we conclude that there is a definite break between voucher specimens 5 and 6. The colour of the neck in categories 1—5 is basically grey, with the amount of brownish wash increasing as the scale increases (from “‘grey’’ to “‘greyish brown” in Payne’s chart). On the other hand, the neck in categories 6-9 ranges from rufous to dark purplish, with no outward evidence of grey. In western Panama (west of the Canal Zone), the neck colour generally varies from 6 to 9 in the index; specimens from eastern Panama vary 1n degrees of brownish wash that range from 2 to 5. Exceptions to this are one specimen from Coclé (category 6) and four from Darien (category 8). B.L. Monroe fr. & M. R. Browning 83 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) These specimens were collected within the wintering dates (Wetmore 1965) and are probably vagrants. Birds from central Panama, with con- sistently higher amounts of brownish wash (mostly 3—5), were named asa subspecies, Butorides striatus patens Griscom, 1929, but this name is now generally synonymized with striatus. It is frequently mentioned (e.g. Payne 1974: 84) that South American birds sometimes have a varying amount of brownish neck wash; indeed, an examination of other striatus at the USNM revealed several with a category 4 rating from Colombia and Venezuela, with scattered individ- uals of this ranking as far south as Paraguay (no. 390676). This does not seem abnormal, simply a reflection of normal variation in the species, which in typical South American striatus ranges from 1 to 4, with the greatest majority 1—3 and but a few at 4 at the brownish-grey end of the spectrum. Following this logic geographically to the north, by the time Panama is reached (excluding Darien), the range of variation has shifted slightly to 2—5, with but a few in category 5. We are somewhat puzzled by the discrepancy between Payne’s chart on p. 83 (his Figure I), in which the entire sample of 72 Panamanian birds shows 14 ‘5s’ and no ‘4s’, and his chart of p. 84 (Figure IT), which indicates 11 ‘4s’, 5 ‘5s’, and one ‘4-5’. Regardless of the judgment of 4 or 5, the fact remains that Panamanian striatus score 2—5, a range of variability equivalent to American striatus in South America except shifted up one level in the index; the two ‘1s’ Payne shows from Canal Zone (we noted one only from Colon) were undoubt- edly vagrant individuals, inasmuch as striatus wanders north as far as Costa Rica. Because of the great overlap and the fact that the difference is primarily in the slightly increased amount of brownish wash, we agree that patens is not worthy of subspecific recognition. But we wish to make it clear that we believe ‘patens’ not to be a highly variable intermediate population but rather one in which the range of variation is comparable to that found elsewhere in the species; thus the “‘approach’’ in colour to virescens may be coincidental and part of normal geographic variability rather than an indicator of genetic introgression. Turning our attention now to ‘virescens’ (categories 6—9), we find that specimens from Bocas del Toro are typical virescens (categories 7—9), representing both the resident Middle American form (sometimes called B. v. maculatus (Boddaert, 1783)) and the migrant North American one (typical virescens); these forms are lumped by Payne and are indeed virtually indistinguishable. Typical virescens then occurs south to northwestern Panama; the species reappears as ‘B. v. margaritophilus Oberholser, 1912’ in the Pearl Islands (categories 7-8), a form also properly merged with typical virescens. Records from farther south in Panama and northern South America (range 7-9) are all from the nonbreeding season and undoubtedly represent wintering or vagrant individuals. Specimens in category 6 might be regarded (and indeed have been) as showing introgression. Payne does not record a single 6 from Panama in his chart on p.84 and listed but two out of his total of 72 on p. 83; we found but a single Panamanian bird (collected in early March in Coclé) that could be graded a 6. It appears to bea typical virescens with a lighter shade of rufous-brown on the neck; the bird does not appear to be intermediate B.L. Monroe fr. S M. R. Browning 84 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) between virescens and striatus, being much more like typical virescens. We point out also that the lighter shade of rufous-brown is typical of Lesser Antillean birds. Although we did not do an extensive analysis of Antillean birds, it is our opinion that this Panamanian individual as well as the Colombian bird that Payne used as the voucher specimen for 6 in the index are either vagrants from the Lesser Antillean populations or else extreme variants of typical virescens, more likely the former. It has been suggested that introgression is extensive in the southern Caribbean region, as evidenced by the large number of 5s and 6s (see Payne’s chart, p. 83), but if introgression occurs there, it is at a very low level. Recently, Voous (1986, and pers. comm.) has determined that any ‘intermediates’ in the area of close approach or possible overlap in the southern Lesser Antilles amount to no more than 6% of the population. It seems likely that even this low percentage may be based on vagrant B. striatus (category 5). In any case, there is no evidence of significant introgression in the Lesser Antilles. B. striatus is also the resident form on ‘Trinidad, whereas it is B. virescens on ‘Tobago and the Lesser Antilles to the north. Of great interest in all this is that not once, in Panama or the Antilles, has a mixed breeding pair ever been reported. Based on this analysis, we feel that there is no substantial evidence that there is interbreeding, and certainly if it occurs at all, it must be at a low level. Thus B. virescens (Green Heron) and B. striatus (Striated Heron) should be regarded as separate species unless there 1s strong new evidence to the contrary. Acknowledgements We thank Richard C. Banks, John W. Fitzpatrick, Thomas R. Howell, Ned K. Johnson, Henri Ouellet, J. V. Remsen and Robert W. Storer, all members of the American Ornithologists’ Union Committee on Classification and Nomenclature, for assistance in examination of the specimens at the U.S. National Museum and for input into the analysis presented above. K. H. Voous was also helpful in providing personal information regarding the Lesser Antillean situation. References: Payne, R. B. 1974. Species limits and variation of the New World Green Herons Butorides virescens and Striated Herons B. striatus. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 94: 81-88. Peters, J. L. 1979. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 1 (revised). Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Voous, K. H. 1986. Striated or Green Herons in the South Caribbean islands? Ann. Naturhist. Mus. Wien (Ser. B) 88/89: 101-106. Wetmore, A. 1965. The Birds of the Republic of Panama. Pt. 1. Smithson. Misc. Coll., 150(1). Addresses: Department of Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40292, U.S.A., & U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Ecology Research Center, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C. 20560, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 B.L. Monroe fr. &S M. R. Browning 85 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) APPENDIX Other Panamanian specimens, arranged by hybrid index, as determined by the authors— total 49, including voucher specimens: 28 virescens (indices 6—9), 21 striatus (indices 1—5). Specimen Hybrid catalogue index number (category) (USNM) Specimen locality 1 385963 Jaque, Darien 1 385964 Jaque, Darien 1 444949 Rio Indio, Chilar, Colon 2 469773 Mouth of Rio Paya, Darien 2 385961 Jaque, Darien 2 385962 Jaque, Darien 2 448635 La Jagua, Chico, Panama prov. 2 533940 nr. Gatun Locks, Canal Zone 3 444947 Rio Indio, Chilar, Colon 3 400111 El Barrero, Herrera 4 476623 Las Palentas, Los Santos 4 460544 Juan Mina, Canal Zone ~ 400112 El Rincon, Herrera - 389642 Rio Jaque, Darién 5 460546 Juan Mina, Canal Zone 5 400109 Santa Maria, Herrera 6 444951 El Uracillo, Coclé 7 444950 El! Uracillo, Cocle Z, 206342 Rio Cana Quebrado, [state?] 7 460541 Isla Coiba Z/ 460542 La Lajas, Chiriqui 7 400108 Paris, Herrera 7 400110 Santa Maria, Herrera 7 206340 Rio Indio, Canal Zone 7 206341 Rio Indio, Canal Zone 7 471157 Isla del Rey, Pearl Is. [margaritophilus] 8 376004 San Jose I., Pearl Is. [margaritophilus]| 8 376005 San Jose I., Pearl Is. [margaritophilus| 8 376013 San Jose I., Pearl Is. [margaritophilus] 8 376104 San Jose I., Pearl Is. [margaritophilus] 8 200443 San Miguel I., Pearl Is. [margaritophilus]| 8 423097 Chivran, Panama prov. 8 206746 Gatun, Canal Zone 8 423097 Chivran, Panama prov. 8 305592 near Yavisa, Darien 8 305594 near Yavisa, Darien 8 385960 Jaque, Darien 8 206344 Rio Indio, Canal Zone 9 460540 La Lajas, Chiriqui 9 606050 Chiriqui Lagoon, Bocas del Toro JF. M. Bates et al. 86 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Observations on the campo, cerrado and forest avifaunas of eastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia, including 21 species new to the country by John M. Bates, Theodore A. Parker III, Angelo P. Capparella & Tristan J. Davis Received 5 July 1991 The grasslands (campos) and open, grassy woodlands (cerrados) of central Brazil and extreme eastern Bolivia are unusually rich in endemic species of plants and animals (Muller 1973, Cracraft 1985). More than 20 bird species are restricted to this vegetation on the Brazilian Plateau, and many of these species are threatened by habitat loss due to the extraordinarily rapid rate of environmental degradation caused by large-scale mechan- ized agriculture and cattle-ranching. Annual burning and overgrazing of grasslands throughout central Brazil have led to severe declines in many of the grassland species (Goriup 1988). The identification and protection of representative examples of these grassland ecosystems should be placed high on the list of conservation priorities in Brazil and adjacent eastern Bolivia. Until recently, the plant and animal communities of eastern Bolivia were largely undescribed. The Serrania de Huanchaca (also known as the Serrania de Caparuch), a large (150 x 75 km) section of the Brazilian shield, isolated from similar areas to the east, remained unexplored. The Bolivian sections of this plateau are now protected within the Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado (PNNKM). Recent botanical surveys of the area, although brief, revealed the presence of extensive areas of several types of upland grasslands, including campo limpo, campo sujo, and campo rupestre, as well as a variety of wooded habitats characteristic of central Brazil, such as cerrado, cerraddo, and gallery forest (T. J. Killeen, pers. comm.). Brazilian examples of these habi- tats have been described in detail by Goodland (1971) and Eiten (1978). We report here the results of continuing ornithological surveys of the PNNKM and adjacent lands of the Reserva Forestal ‘“‘Bajo Paragua’’. These areas form the northeastern corner of the Department of Santa Cruz in eastern Bolivia. Field work in 1989 spanned four months (mid- June to mid-October) and concentrated on habitats and sites not surveyed ona 1988 expedition to the same region (Bates et al. 1989). This inventory is a joint project involving personnel from the Museum of Natural Science (Louisiana State University, LSUMWNS), the Museo de Historia Natural ‘‘Noel Kempff Mercado” (Universidad Autonoma ‘‘Gabriel Rene Moreno’’, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, MHNNKM), and the PNNKM. Our focus on this expedition was the campos, cerrados, and islands of forest vegetation on top of the Serrania de Huanchaca, with remaining time spent in forests along the western base of the plateau (along the Rio Paragua). F. M. Bates et al. 87 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Serranta habitat and localities. The top of the plateau (500,000 ha) is a mosaic of naturally isolated Amazonian and deciduous forest patches associated with water courses. These forest patches are separated by a spectrum of open country habitats ranging from pure campo to dense cerrado. ‘‘Camp 1” in the northern part of the serrania was in a forest fragment of c.600ha, 21km south of Catarata Arco Iris (13°55’S, 60°45'W, elev. 670m). A satellite camp was also set up in ac. 1500 ha fragment, separated from the 600 ha fragment by 1 km of campo. Catarata Arco Iris is the main waterfall on the Rio Paucerna as it runs off the serrania to the north. From these camps, birds were surveyed in both forest and open country from 24 June through 18 July. Participants were John M. Bates (JMB), Angelo Capparella (APC), Maria Dolores Carreno, Abel Castillo (AC), Jorge Cayalo, Curtis Marantz (CAM), and Manuel and Marta Sanchez. ““Camp 2”’ was at the southern end of the plateau in a forest fragment (c. 500 ha) surrounded by open campo with small patches of cerrado and strips of gallery forest. In addition, campo rupestre occurred along the rocky crests and upper slopes of ridges in the open campo. Although never occurring over extensive areas, campo rupestre is characterized by a highly endemic flora of grasses, bushes and trees. Camp 2 is c. 45 km east of the town of Florida (14°34'S, 60°40'W, elev. 720 m), and was visited briefly on 24-26 August, and studied intensively from 26 September through 15 October. Participants were JMB, AC, Tristan J. Davis (TJD), Hugo H. Hurtado, Theodore A. Parker (TAP) and Gary H. Rosenberg (GHR). West bank of the Rio Paragua localities. 'Three areas west of the Rio Paragua were surveyed, including two forest sites 10 and 13 km SSW of Piso Firme and flooded grassland (pantanal) 6km SSW of Piso Firme. Piso Firme (13°35’S, 60°55’W, elev. c. 250 m) is a small town on the west bank of the Rio Paragua (formally in Depto. Beni), c.4km from the Paragua’s confluence with the Rio Iténez (the Spanish name; Rio Guapore is the Portuguese name; Paynter et al. 1975). These sites were all worked between 19 July and 4 August. Participants were the same as those listed for camp 1. The habitat west of the Paragua consists of low-canopy, evergreen tropical forest, which had been harvested to varying extents for selected palm and lumber trees. Our camps were along a road into forest where palm hearts were being harvested. Adjacent to the site 13 km SSW wasa 30 ha patch of dense cerrado surrounded by forest. Los Fierros. Tall forests in this area at the western base of the serrania, but east of the Rio Paragua, were studied and described previously (Bates et al. 1989). This very diverse region was visited again in 1989 from 28 August through 25 September by TJD, with briefer visits by TAP, JMB and AC. In addition to collecting specific species in the tall forest, we concentrated our efforts in nearby seasonally flooded grassland with small patches of cerrado woodland. Remsen & Traylor (1989) listed 1274 species for Bolivia, of which 306 have been reported for the PNNKM (Bates et al. 1989). The 1989 expedition produced 21 new species for Bolivia, and 224 new species for JF. M. Bates et al. 88 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) the PNNKM (Bates et al. in prep.). We report here on the 21 species new for the country (indicated by an asterisk following the name) and provide notes on some other poorly known species. The 21 new species came from a variety of habitats: Amazonian forest (5), forest edges/gallery forest (9), campo/cerrado (7). Gonad data are given only for specimens considered to be in breeding condition. All specimens collected are housed in the LSUMNS and the MHNNKM. Tape recordings are housed in the Library of Natural Sounds (LLNS), laboratory of Ornithology, Cornell University. We also include some unpublished records from collections made in 1964 and 1965 by Javier Cuello of the Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Montevideo, Uruguay. Cuello collected along the Rio Mamore and Rio Itenez in Dpto. Beni and deposited this material at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). The collection includes Bolivian specimens that predate several published “‘first records’ for Bolivia (Cabot et al. in press, Bates et al. 1989). In addition to being first records for the country, these are also new records for Dpto. Beni and represent additional Bolivian localities to the northwest of our sites, providing further evidence that the major headwater river of the Rio Madeira that separates allotaxa of the Inambari and Rondonian areas of endemism (sensu Cracraft 1985) is the Rio Mamore. Species accounts RUSSET-CROWNED CRAKE Laterallus viridis* On 8 July, APC observed an individual perched low in a shrub in tall, well-drained grassland with scattered bushes and small trees near camp 1. This bird was not collected. Subsequently, we learned that J. Cuello collected two individuals on 2 May 1964 (AMNH 791736, 791737) on the Bolivian side of the Rio Itenez near the mouth of the Rio Mamore. These represent the first documented records of this widespread species for Bolivia. Niethammer’s (1953) sight record of this species from Dpto. La Paz was considered hypothetical by Remsen & Traylor (1989). BLACK-BELLIED CUCKOO Piaya melanogaster ‘TAP and JMB saw a pair and heard another individual in the canopy of stunted forest (c.14m tall) on sandy soil near Los Fierros on 29 August. TJD collected a male in the company of another bird in the same area on 6 September and saw solitary individuals inside and in tall forest edge around Los Fierros on 10 and 21 September. The only other Bolivian records of P. melanogaster are from Dpto. Pando (Parker & Remsen 1987) and Dpto. La Paz, along the upper Rio Madidi (sight records, T‘AP pers. obs.). STYGIAN OWL Aszi0 stygius* On 4 July, AC and APC flushed a pair of this species from a wooded ravine in brushy campo and collected a female (MHNNKM). The only previous report for Bolivia, a sight record from upper montane cloud- forest in Dpto. Cochabamba (Fjeldsa & Krabbe 1990) was considered hypothetical by Remsen & Traylor (1989). F. M. Bates et al. 89 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) LONG-TAILED POTOO Nyctibius aethereus* The distinctive ahodo call of this poorly known species was regularly heard in the canopy of tall forest at Los Fierros, where one or two indi- viduals were taped by TAP and GHR (LNS) between 28 August and 15 October. Two individuals were especially vocal on the later date, under a full moon. Although this is the first Bolivian record of N. aethereus, the species has recently been found in numerous localities in eastern Peru (TAP pers. obs.) and has now been recorded from Argentina (Stranek & Johnson 1990). It has undoubtedly been overlooked because it prefers the interior of forests versus forest-edges frequented by N. griseus and to a lesser extent by N. grandis. N. aethereus may prove to be more common than the latter species in many terra firme forests of upper Amazonia. LEAST NIGHTHAWK Chordeiles pusillus* This small nighthawk is apparently fairly common, at least from July through October, in dry grasslands of PNNKM. In July, CAM and others flushed one or two individuals on several occasions from roosting sites on gravelly slopes with sparse vegetation near camp 1. The first Bolivian specimen was collected by TAP on 30 August as it foraged at dusk over dry (but seasonally flooded) grasslands near Los Fierros. This individual is a female with heavy fat. On 29 September, TJD collected a male, with no fat and 4 x 5 mm testes, over arocky hillside near camp 2. In this area, we repeatedly saw pairs of birds flying together at dusk. GHR recorded vocalizations of one individual (LNS) as it foraged low over open grassland. CHAPMAN’S SWIFT Chaetura chapmani* Late August sightings of pairs or small groups of up to 6 large, all-dark swifts flying over dry (seasonally flooded) grasslands on several occasions near Los Fierros and on the southern part of the plateau are believed to be this species (TAP). These birds were seen both alone and in the company of large flocks of White-collared Swifts Streptoprocne zonaris. SPOTTED PUFFBIRD Bucco tamatia* Four individuals mist-netted in forest fragments at camp 1 in early July, and four others collected by TJD in stunted forest on sandy soil near Los Fierros in early September, are the first records for Bolivia. A female collected at Los Fierros had an enlarged ovary, an ovum 15 mm in diam- eter and an oviduct 12 mm wide. This widespread species is generally restricted to seasonally flooded (varzea) forests (Remsen & Parker 1983), but also occurs in adjacent second-growth woodlands (TAP pers. obs.). CAMPO MINER Geobates poecilopterus* This campo endemic was first found by JMB on 2 October in recently- burned open campo near a small stream at camp 2. Over the next few days up to eight additional miners were observed displaying over similar (burned) habitat. Three males collected at this time all had enlarged testes averaging 4x9mm. The display by the males consisted of a hovering flight 3-10 m above the female on the ground below. During this laboured flight, males displayed their chestnut-and-white underwing coverts and gave long musical rattles (LNS). Flights and rattles lasted for up to J. M. Bates et al. 90 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) 30 seconds. Display flights were observed for only 6 days, and the birds thereafter became silent and inconspicuous. Despite extensive coverage, no G. poecilopterus had been found in this area in late August nor in late September, before fires swept through a large portion of the grasslands on this part of the plateau. This species may disperse facultatively to breed in recently-burned grasslands, which may explain its apparently local distribution in the campos of central Brazil (TAP pers. obs.). RUFOUS-WINGED ANTSHRIKE Thamnophilus torquatus On top of the serrania, this antshrike was uncommon and inconspicu- ous at camp | and apparently rare at camp 2 where only one individual was seen. The species frequents shrubby areas with scattered trees in the transitional zone between more open cerrados and gallery forests. It was also encountered in thickets near streams where Barred Antshrikes T. doliatus were also seen. The only previous report of T. torquatus in Bolivia is from the “‘plains of Guayaros”’ south of the park (Peters 1951). LARGE-BILLED ANTWREN Herpsilochmus longirostris On 29 September, TJD collected a female of a pair from the canopy of a small (<1 ha) patch of gallery forest surrounded by grassland near camp 2. He collected a pair on 6 October in the same area. GHR and JMB sawa male in similar habitat along a stream flowing into a larger forest island (> 200 ha) on 7 October. TJD found several additional pairs in other isolated patches of gallery forest along small streams on 8 and 11 October. The species was replaced by H. rufimarginatus in larger forest islands. The 4 specimens collected by TJD, and two males (AMNH 792009, 792010) collected in Dpto. Beni along the Rio Iténez “‘frente Costa Margues”’ by J. Cuello on 6 and 17 September 1964 (Davis '& O’ Neill 1986), are the only Bolivian specimens. Sight records reported as Herpsilochmus pileatus by Remsen (1986) at Estancia Inglaterra, Dpto. Beni, are also believed to have been this species. YELLOW-BREASTED FLYCATCHER Tolmomyzas flaviventris flaviventris* This canopy species was fairly common along the edges of forest islands on the Serrania and was also found in somewhat stunted forest on sandy soils near Los Fierros and Piso Firme. AC collected two individuals near camp 1 on 1 and 3 July, and a third on 31 July south of Piso Firme. These specimens represent the first records of nominate T. f. flaviventris for Bolivia. TAP (unpubl. obs.) has found the call notes and songs of the subspecies with bright yellow underparts (flaviventris, aurulentus, collingwoodi, and dissors) to be different in quality and pattern from the subspecies with duller underparts (suwbsimilis, viridiceps and zimmert). Vocalizations of the latter forms consist of clear explosive chip notes usually delivered in an accelerating series. ‘The first four subspecies give shorter series of buzzy, thin ssst or tseeep notes (recordings in LNS). Vocal as well as morphological characters (Zimmer 1939) strongly suggest that the two groups represent at least two biological species: T. flaviventris and T. viridiceps. Specimens of ‘‘borbae’”’ from along the Rio Madeira, Brazil, considered by Hellmayr (1927) to be intermediate between flaviventris and wiridiceps, were later assigned to viridiceps by Zimmer (1939). Thus, these Tolmomyias are similar to numerous other species pairs that are also F. M. Bates et al. 91 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) separated by the Rio Madeira (Hellmayr 1910, Haffer 1969, Cracraft 1985). PLANALTO TYRANNULET Phyllomyzas fasciatus The first Bolivian record for this species was an individual collected in 1987 from a site at the western base of the serrania near Los Fierros (Cabot et al. 1988). TAP, JMB and AC observed and tape-recorded a pair calling in the same area on 28 August. These individuals were in forest- edge canopy c. 15—20m above the ground, within 100m of tall cerrado woodland. On 28 September, TJD observed a pair in the canopy of open cerrado woodland at the edge of the large forest island at camp 2. He collected a calling male on 1 October, with a left testis 9 x 5mm, in the same general area. The Huanchaca specimen is greyer above than four specimens from southeastern Brazil referred to P. f. brevirostris (3 LSUMNS and 1 University of Kansas). Thus, the Huanchaca specimen presumably represents P. f. fasciatus of central Brazil. A new form of this species has also been found recently in the Andean foothills of Dpto. Ben (Parker et al. 1991). RUFOUS-TAILED ATTILA Attila phoenicurus* On 25 August TAP, JMB, and TJD tape-recorded songs (LNS) of an individual singing from the canopy of the large forest island at camp 2. TJD and JMB heard an individual singing again in the same area in late September but were unable to collect the bird. The species has been reported from western Mato Grosso, and as far north as Amazonas, in southern Venezuela (Traylor 1979), but is only found regularly (from October through January) in the forested mountains of Rio de Janeiro (TAP pers. obs., Sick 1984) and Rio Grande do Sul (Belton 1985). The southeastern population is apparently migratory (Belton 1985), and widely scattered Amazonian records may represent custral migrants. ZIMMER’S TODY-TYRANT Hemiutriccus aenigma* This little-known species was uncommon in the canopy of stunted forest on sandy soil near Los Fierros. Widely-spaced pairs foraged from c. 8-12 m above the ground within foliage and vine tangles. Five pairs were found along c. 1.5 km of this habitat (TAP), and TJD collected 7 individuals in late August and early September in the same general area. In August 1990, TAP and Omar Rocha found 2-3 H. aenigma in the canopy of stunted forest along the edge of a large forest island near camp 1, at the northern end of the serrania, as well as in taller forest on lateritic soil at Versalles, Dpto. Beni (Parker et al. 1991). Vocalizations of H. aenigma consist of a variety of short trills and twittering notes (LNS) reminiscent of the calls of the Eared Pygmy-tyrant Myiornis auricularis. These notes, while loud, are ventriloquial. This species was, until recently, known only from the type series collected on the right bank of the Rio Tapajos, western Para, Brazil (D. F. Stotz pers. comm.). RUFOUS-SIDED PYGMY-TYRANT Euscarthmus rufomarginatus* On 25 June, JMB collected a female from a pair in tall grass mixed with scattered bushes and small trees (campo sujo) near camp 1. CAM later taped two other individuals in the same area (LNS). A few other individ- uals were located during October fieldwork at camp 2 (TJD, JMB). These F. M. Bates et al. 92 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) represent the first records of the species for Bolivia. TTAP and O. Rocha found and studied four additional pairs near camp 1 in late August 1990; details of these observations will be reported elsewhere (Parker & Willis MS). This species has apparently declined throughout most of its Brazilian range due to the over-grazing, over-burning and conversion of its grassland habitat into agricultural land (Goriup 1988). The Huanchaca plateau may support the largest remaining tracts of pristine campo sujo habitat anywhere. CRESTED ELAENIA Elaenia cristata* This species was common in cerrado woodland and along the edges of gallery forest at the north end of the serrania throughout June. A large series of specimens and numerous observations represent the first records for Bolivia. Although individuals were noted in pairs and seemed to be territorial (J MB pers. obs.), the species was curiously scarce at the same site in August 1990 (‘TAP pers. obs.), when far outnumbered by both E. flavogaster and E. chiriquensis. We reserve judgment on the seasonal status of EF. cristata in the park, until more data are available on the seasonal distributions of all of the 6 species of Elaenia that have been recorded. HELMETED MANAKIN Antilophia galeata* This species was common in gallery forests and along the edges of larger forest islands at camp 2. One female was also mist-netted 1n a forest fragment at camp 1. Males were vocal, giving a variety of rich slurred whistles as they moved from exposed perch to perch in the forest under- story and middlestory. They were found singly and were dispersed, barely within earshot of neighbouring males. Thus, they did not appear to be engaged in any type of communal display. A female collected on 26 September at camp 2 had an enlarged ovary and thinly shelled egg in its oviduct. Miguel Marini (im litt.) has pointed out that Ihering (1898) included Bolivia in the range of this species; however, no precise Bolivian locality was given, and Remsen & Traylor (1989) did not include the species as occurring in Bolivia. BLACK MANAKIN Xenopipo atronitens* A female mist-netted at the edge of a forest fragment at camp 1 on 13 July, and an immature male netted in the island of cerrado woodland surrounded by closed-canopy evergreen forest 13 km SSW of Piso Firme on 31 July represent the first Bolivian records for this species. ‘This poorly known bird occurs primarily in islands of stunted forest on sandy soil both north and south of the Amazon (TAP pers. obs.). The species has also been found along the lower Rio Heath, Peru, within 5 km of the Bolivian border (Graham et al. 1980) and no doubt occurs in stunted forests of the intervening Departments of northern Bolivia. PALE-BELLIED TYRANT-MANAKIN Neopelma pallescens* Two individuals were mist-netted and another was collected by JMBin forest fragments at camp 1. The bird collected by JMB was repeatedly giving a loud call note from 1m up in gallery forest understory at the edge of a forest fragment. These are the westernmost records for this species, as well as the first Bolivian records. In lowland forests along the Rio Paucerna at the western base of the serrania, we have recorded only F. M. Bates et al. 93 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) N. sulphureiventer, which has not been found on top of the plateau. These species had not been known to occur in such close proximity. POMPADOUR COTINGA Xipholena punicea* On 30 August, TAP saw a male Pompadour Cotinga displaying to three females 35 m up in forest canopy along a road near Los Fierros. TJD collected alone female in the same area on 10 September. This bird had an ovum 9 mm in diameter, an oviduct 13 mm wide and a brood patch. Our records are the first for Bolivia and the southernmost for the species, which was rare at a site along the Rio Ji-Parana in Rondonia, Brazil (D. F. Stotz, in Remsen & Traylor 1989). X. punicea is known from only a few localities south of the Amazon. CURL-CRESTED JAY Cyanocorax cristatellus* This species was fairly common and conspicuous in open cerrado and gallery forest-edge near camp 2, and one small flock was seen in cerrado woodland at the western base of the serrania in late August (TAP). In August, 1990, TAP and Rocha observed a flock in dense cerrado at the northern end of the serrania. Although usually observed in flocks of 6—9 individuals, alone pair of C. cristatellus was building a large stick nest 7 m up in branches of an isolated tree in rocky, open habitat near camp 2 on 25 August. These are the westernmost records for this cerrado inhabitant and the first Bolivian records of the species. The only record of another jay species for the park is a flock of C. cyanomelas seen by TJD in early September (1989) along the edge of taller forest in the same area where TAP had observed C. cristatellus in August. Although both species are known to occur together (within the same flocks occasionally) in central Brazil (Ridgely & Tudor 1989), they appear separated in this part of Bolivia. TOOTH-BILLED WREN Odontorchilus cinereus* This poorly-known canopy wren was fairly common in a narrow zone of tall, humid forest within 2 km of the serrania at Arroyo del Encanto and Los Fierros (see Bates et al. 1989). Pairs and presumably family groups of 34 individuals were observed there with 4 large, mixed-species flocks, all of which also contained Xenops tenuirostris, Tolmomyias assimilis, Hylophilus muscicapinus and Tachyphonus cristatus. Although quite inconspicuous as they foraged within foliage along slender branches in the uppermost canopy (25—35 m), both members of pairs sang persistently. The most commonly heard song wasa vibrating, high-pitched trill about 3 seconds long, similar to that of aPine Warbler Dendroica pinus. Inresponse to playback, and while counter-singing, some individuals gave 1—2 very different song types, such as a high-pitched series of swee notes (LNS). A specimen was collected by Carmelo Pena from a canopy flock well west of the plateau, 13 km SW of Piso Firme on 25 June. On 1 September near Arroyo del Encanto, TJD collected a female, with an unshelled egg in its oviduct, from a canopy flock that included 3 other O. cinereus. TJD also collected a male on 11 September near Los Fierros. These are the first records for Bolivia for this species previously known only from Brazil between the upper Rios Madeira and Tapajos (Meyer de Schauensee 1966). J. M. Bates et al. 94 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) BUFF-CHEEKED GREENLET Hylophilus muscicapinus* This widespread Amazonian species was common in the canopy of tall forest throughout the park, including the large forest islands on top of the plateau. Pairs were heard (and occasionally seen) in most mixed- species canopy flocks. On 13 July, AC collected the first Bolivian speci- men in the forest fragments at camp 1. On 31 August, TAP collected a male, with testes measuring 7 x 5mm, from a canopy flock near Los Fierros. TJD collected three more males in early September from the same area. RED-SHOULDERED TANAGER Tachyphonus phoenicius* Two females of this species were collected in July at camp 1, along the edges of forest fragments bordering cerrado, and TJD collected a male near Los Fierros on 7 September in stunted forest-edge bordering grass- land. These are the first Bolivian records of this species, that shares with several other species now known from the park, such as Tangara cayana and Sicalis citrina, a patchy distribution in Amazonia reflecting the island-like distribution of relict grasslands and associated woodlands. BLUE-NECKED TANAGER Tangara cyanicollis This species has an unusually disjunct range (but see Carduelis olivacea below) that includes the lower slopes of the eastern Andes from Venezuela to Bolivia and the northern edge of the Brazilian shield in central Brazil (Isler & Isler 1987). We found it to be uncommon in the canopy of all forest sites visited in 1989. Although most frequently found in small groups of 3-4 along the edges of gallery forest and large forest islands, a few were also noted in the canopy of open cerrado woodland within 200 m of taller forest. A female collected by CAM at camp 1 on 28 June had an enlarged oviduct 9 mm wide, and another female collected by GHR on 7 October at camp 2 had an ovum 5 mm in diameter. Our Huanchaca specimens may represent an undescribed form that differs from other populations in having more extensive dark blue on the throat. BLUE FINCH Porphyrospiza caerulescens This species was one of the most common passerines 1n campo rupestre at the southern end of the serrania. We collected a series of 14 birds including adults of both sexes and young males that had not reached adult plumage. In late August, Blue Finches were found primarily in small groups of 4-6 individuals, including beth adult and immature males and females. These were frequently in association with pairs or families of Black-throated Saltators Saltator atricollis, another patchily distributed cerrado species. Ridgely & Tudor (1989) list the species’ habitat as ‘““open grassy cerrado with scattered trees’’; but in the PNNKM these finches were most common in campo rupestre, where they foraged on the ground and flushed to the tops of rocks or bushes when disturbed. Groups of up to six individuals were noted in unburned, streamside brush in days immediately after a fire swept through much of the area in early October. Shortly after this, males were singing from exposed perches throughout the burned campo rupestre. Parker & Rocha (1991) provide more behavioural information from a recently discovered population on the Cerro San Simon, Dpto. Beni, c. 150 km NW of PNNKM. F. M. Bates et al. 95 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) The Huanchaca records may be the first undoubted occurrence of P. caerulescens in Bolivia. The only previous record from Cuevo, Dpto. Chuquisaca (Laubmann 1930), has been questioned (Ridgely & Tudor 1989) because the specialized habitat of this species has not been reported from west of the Brazilian shield plateaus. Ridgely & Tudor (1989) list P. caerulescens as a species whose status “‘is cause for concern’’. The extensive rocky campos of the Serrania de Huanchaca undoubtedly support one of the largest protected populations of this species. On a taxonomic note, we agree with Ridgely & Tudor (1989) that Pophyrospiza does not belong in the genus Passerina (contra Paynter 1970). We see little vocal or behavioural similarity between P. caerulescens and any member of the Cardinalinae. Its songs, thin wispy series of sweeu notes, as described by Ridgely & Tudor (1989), are similar to those of emberizids such as Volatinia and Haplospiza, and very different from the melodious whistled songs of buntings, grosbeaks and saltators. BLACK-AND-TAWNY SEEDEATER Sporophila nigrorufa On 29 August, TAP observed at least two adult male S. nigrorufa among flocks of 600 or more Sporophila spp. in dry (but seasonally flooded) grassland at the western base of the serrania south of Los Fierros. S. nigrorufa was known from fewer than 10 specimens and a few sight records from extreme eastern Bolivia and southwestern Brazil (Ridgely & Tudor 1989). The birds foraged on grass seeds in association with numbers of S. ruficollis (20-30 males) and S. hypochroma (10-20 males), as well as smaller numbers of S. hypoxantha. Most individuals in these flocks were unidentifiable juvenile and female Sporophila. From these flocks, we obtained a series of S. ruficollis males, and one male S. hypochroma, collected by TJD. COAL-CRESTED FINCH Charitospiza eucosma* On 7 October, TJD collected a male from a pair found in recently burned campo with scattered trees and bushes. A more thorough search of the same area over the next several days revealed the presence of at least 15 singing males and an equal number of females. The birds’ behaviour suggested they were in the process of establishing territories. Four males collected at this time had testes averaging 6 x 3 mm, but 4 females showed no enlargement of the ovary. As with Geobates poecilopterus, we feel certain that this species appeared in the area within days of a fire that burned a large expanse of campo. Charitospiza eucosma was seen only in burned wooded campo. In central Brazil, this species has a patchy distri- bution in both campo swjo and taller cerrado (TAP pers. obs., Ridgely & Tudor 1989), and its local movements have been associated with fires (Ridgely & Tudor 1989, Cavalcanti 1990). A pair that established a terri- tory in charred cerrado habitat in Brasilia National Park remained within its c. 2 ha territory for at least 3 years following the initial fire (i.e., long after the vegetation returned to its original lush condition). In another area c.30km NE of Brasilia, TAP and A. Negret found 4—-5 pairs of Charitospiza in October 1985, in c. 3 ha of recently burned cerrado with small trees and bushes. With little effort, 3 nests each with three eggs were found. ¥. M. Bates et al. 96 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) OLIVACEOUS SISKIN Carduelis olivacea Two females collected by TJD in cerrado at the edge of a forest fragment on the southern end of the serrania on 2 and 13 October, have been tentatively identified as Carduelis olivacea, previously known in Bolivia from montane forests in Dptos. Cochabamba and La Paz (Remsen & Traylor 1989). In comparisons with the similar C. magellanica santaecrucis, the PNNKM birds are smaller (in wing length, tail length, and culmen length), and have yellow instead of white feathers on the lower belly. An additional difference appears to exist in bill colour, which is lighter (grey to dusky horn) in C. magellanica. Whether the Huanchaca specimens represent an isolated and possibly undescribed form of C. olivacea is not yet determined; however, at least two other taxa, Tangara cyanicollis and Odontorchilus beanicheliconeee have similar Andean/central Brazilian distributions. Cuello specimens J. Cuello collected the following specimens from this region before specimens or sight records reported by Bates et al. (1989) and Cabot et al. (1988); hence, Cuello’s records represent the first for Bolivia. All records are from Dpto. Beni: Pyrrhura rhodogaster (AMNH 791770), Nyctiprogne leucopyga (AMNH 791795-802), Pteroglossus bitorquatus (AMNH 791872), Piculus flavigula (AMNH 791906-7) and Dendrocolaptes concolor (AMNH 791936-7). Conservation The extensive areas of campo and cerrado habitats in the Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado, both on top of and below the Serrania de Huanchaca, have become extremely important in a conservation sense due to massive destruction of these habitats in central Brazil. The largest remaining pristine examples of campo limpo, campo sujo, campo rupestre, and cerrado (sensu Eiten 1978) probably occur within this park. ‘Together, these habitats encompass c. 500,000 ha of the park, primarily on top of the plateau. Large populations of numerous potentially threatened bird taxa occur within the park, including 6 species endemic to the Brazilian shield (Geobates poecilopterus, Euscarthmus rufomarginatus, Antilophia galeata, Cyanocorax cristatellus, Porphyrospiza caerulescens, and Charitospiza eucosma) that have been not previously reported from Bolivia. The Serrania de Huanchaca is apparently the western distributional limit for these species. Future zoological and botanical surveys will no doubt reveal the presence of many more animal and plant species now considered endemic to central Brazil, as well as smaller numbers of taxa endemic to the plateau itself. The conservation importance of PNNKM is further increased by the presence of a surprisingly rich avifauna in lowland, evergreen forest along both the eastern and western sides of the serrania (Bates et al. 1989). Acknowledgements The 1989 Expedition was funded by National Geographic Society grant 4089-89 to J. V. Remsen. Additional support came from Mrs Paquita Machris. The staff of the PNNKM under the direction of Ing. Nestor Ruiz generously provided logistical support. F. M. Bates et al. 97 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) We wish to thank especially Ing. Gregorio CerroGrande. Lic. Arturo Moscoso V., Dpto. de Vida Silvestre, Centro de Desarrollo Forestal, Santa Cruz, and Lic. Teresa R. de Centurion and the staff of the Museo de Historia Natural ‘“‘Noel Kempff Mercado” provided advice and help throughout our work in Bolivia. Manuel and Marta Sanchez, Carmelo Pena, Juan Surubi and the people of Florida and Piso Firme were invaluable in setting up and maintaining the various camps. Armando Yepez was an indispensable field hand and companion throughout our fieldwork. Finally special thanks go to Hermes Justiniano for his interest in our project and for his patience in flying our large group all over the serrania without the slightest incident. J. V. Remsen and D. F. Stotz provided comments on the manuscript. References: Bates, J. M., Garvin, M. C., Schmitt, D. C. & Schmitt, G. C. 1989. Notes on bird distri- bution in northeastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia, with 15 species new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 109: 236-244. Belton, W. 1985. Birds of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Part 2. Formicariidae through Corvidae. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 180. Cavalcanti, R. 1990. Effects of fire on savanna birds in central Brazil. Abstract No. 1552. Acta XX Congr. Internat. Orn. Christchurch, New Zealand. Cabot, J., Castroviejo, J. & Urios, V. 1988. Cuatro nuevas especies de aves para Bolivia. Donana, Acta Vertebrata 15: 235-237. Cracraft, J. 1985. Historical biogeography and patterns of differentiation within the South American avifauna: areas of endemism. Pp. 49-84 in P. A. Buckley, M.S. Foster, E. S. Morton, R. S. Ridgely and F. G. Buckley (eds), Neotropical Ornithology. American Ornithologists’ Union. Davis, T. J. & O'Neill, J. P. 1986. A new species of antwren (Formicariidae: Herpsilochmus) from Peru, with comments on the systematics of other members of the genus. Wilson Bull. 98: 337-352. Eiten, G. 1978. Delimitation of the cerrado concept. Vegetatio 36: 169-178. Fjeldsa, J. & Krabbe, N. 1990. Birds of the high Andes. Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. Goodland, R. 1971. A physiognomic analysis of the cerrado vegetation of central Brazil. 7. Ecol. 59: 411-419. Goriup, P. D. (ed.) 1988. Ecology and Conservation of Grassland Birds. 1.C.B.P. and Smithsonian Inst. Press. Graham, G. L., Graves, G. R., Schulenberg, T. S. & O’ Neill, J. P. 1980. Seventeen bird species new to Peru from the Pampas de Heath. Auk 97: 366-370. Haftfer, J. 1969. Speciation in Amazonian birds. Science 165: 131-137. Hellmayr, C. E. 1910. The birds of the Rio Madeira. Novit. Zool. 17: 257-428. Hellmayr, C. E. 1927. Catalogue of the birds of the Americas, Pt. 5. Field Mus. Nat. Hist. Publ. Zool. Ser. 13. Ihering, H. von, 1898. As aves do estado do Sao Paulo. Rev. Mus. Paulista 111: 113-476. Isler, M. L. & Isler, P. 1. 1987. The Tanagers : natural history, distribution, and identification. Smithsonian Inst., Washington, D.C. Laubmann, A. 1930. Vogel. Wiussenschaftliche Ergebnisse der Deutschen Gran Chaco- Expedition. Strecker and Schroder, Stuttgart. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1966. The Species of Birds of South America with their Distribution. Livingston, Narberth, PA. Muller, P. 1973. Dispersal centers of terrestrial vertebrates in the Neotropical realm. Biogeographica no. 2. Niethammer, G. 1953. Zur Vogelwelt Boliviens. Bonn. Zool. Beitr. 4: 195-303. Parker, T. A., III & Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1987. Fifty-two Amazonian bird species new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 94-106. Parker, T. A., III & Rocha O., O. 1991. The avifauna of Cerro San Simon, an isolated campo rupestre locality in the Department of Beni, northern Bolivia. Ecologia en Bolivia 17: 15-29. Parker, T. A., III, Gell-Mann, M. & Rocha O., O. 1991. Records of new and unusual birds from northern Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 111: 120-138. Paynter, R.A., Jr., Traylor, M.A., Jr. & Winter, B. 1975. Ornithological Gazeteer of Bolivia. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Peters, J. L. 1951. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. VII. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. J. M.C. da Silva & D. F. Stotz 98 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1986. Aves de una localidad en la sabana humeda del norte de Bolivia. Ecologia en Bolivia 8: 21—36. Remsen, J. V., Jr. & Parker, T. A., III. 1983. Contributions of river-created habitats to Amazonian bird species richness. Biotropica 15: 223-231. Remsen, J. V., Jr. & Traylor, M.A., Jr. 1989. An Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Bolivia. Buteo Books, Vermilion, SD. Ridgely, R.S. & Tudor, G. 1989. The Birds of South America: the oscine passerines. Oxford Univ. Press. Sick, H. 1984. Ornitologia Brasileira, uma introdugado. Vol. 1. Editoria Universidade de Brasilia, Brasilia. Stranek, R. & Johnson, A. 1990. Nyctibius aethereus (Wied, 1820) una nueva especie para la republica Argentina (Aves, Nyctibiidae). Notulas Faunisticas 23: 1-3. Traylor, M. A., Jr. 1979. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 8. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Zimmer, J. T. 1939. Studies of Peruvian birds. No 33. The genera Tolmomyias and Rhynchocyclus with further notes on Ramphotrigon. Am. Mus. Novit. no. 1045. Addresses: John M. Bates, Museum of Natural Science and Department of Zoology and Physiology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803; T. A. Parker, III, Museum of Natural Science, Louisiana State University; Angelo P. Capparella, Dept. of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois 61761; T. J. Davis, Museum of Natural History, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Geographic variation in the Sharp-billed Treehunter Heliobletus contaminatus by fosé Maria Cardoso da Silva & Douglas F. Stotz Received 8 Fuly 1991 The Sharp-billed Treehunter Heliobletus contaminatus is a small (13-15 g) forest-dwelling furnariid of southeastern Brazil, from Espirito Santo to Rio Grande do Sul, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (Misiones) (Meyer de Schauensee 1966). It is a common species in tall forest, where in associates with mixed-species flocks (Sick 1985, Stotz, pers. obs.). The species was described from specimens collected at Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro (Hellmayr 1925), and has been considered monotypic (Pinto 1978, Vaurie 1980). We have examined 60 specimens of H. contaminatus in the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de Sao Paulo (MZUSP) and the Museu Nacional do Rio de Janeiro (MNRJ). We dis- covered that the population distributed south of the northeastern part of the state of Sao Paulo is quite distinct from the more northerly populations. We propose to name this population Heliobletus contaminatus camargoi subsp. nov. Holotype. $, MZUSP 27638, Porto Cabral, Rio Parana, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Collected 26 October 1941 by J. Lima. 3. M.C. da Silva & D. F. Stotz 99 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Diagnosis. Possesses broad buffy streaks on the upper back, while nominate contaminatus has a plain back or pale hairstreaks caused by a pale rachis. In addition, camargoi averages larger (wing and tail, see Table 1) and has the buffy streaks on the lower breast and abdomen broader and more extensive than the nominate form. Description of holotype. Upperparts Antique Brown (colour 37; capitalized colour names and numbers from Smithe 1975), crown feathers narrowly streaked with Cream Colour (colour 54) and darkening laterally to Sepia (colour 219), feathers of upper back broadly centred with Cream Colour, tertials and broad edges to other remiges and wing coverts (otherwise Hair Brown, colour 119A) near Antique Brown, but slightly more rufous, tail Cinnamon-Rufous (colour 40). Lores and broad superciliary stripe extending along nape Buff- Yellow (colour 53), sides of face mainly Sepia with auriculars based with Buff- Yellow, the sides of the neck Buff- Yellow, with an ochraceous tone, nearly joining the supercili- ary to enclose the dark sides of the face. Throat including malar region pale Buff-Yellow, paler in centre; remainder of underparts Light Drab (colour 119C), with broad streaks of Cream Colour, these becoming narrower on the abdomen; undertail coverts slightly darker with rufous tone and narrow pale streaks in centre. Measurements of holotype. Flattened wing 70.0 mm; tail 55.0mm; culmen length from anterior edge of nostril 8.9 mm, from base of skull 14.6 mm; tarsus 18.3 mm. Distribution (see specimens examined and Fig. 1). Known from Brazil from Sao Paulo, south and west of the city of Sao Paulo, south to Rio Grande do Sul. We have not examined specimens from Argentina or Paraguay, but they should be referable to this form. Etymology. We take great pleasure in naming this subspecies for our good friend and colleague, Dr Helio F. Camargo, in recognition of his important contributions to Brazil ornithology and, especially, the avian collection of the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de Sao Paulo. Specimens examined. H. c. contaminatus. Rio de Janeiro: Teresopolis (52, 19), Nova Friburgo (23), Maua (19), Parque Nacional do Itatiaia (23, 22). H. c. contaminatus x camargoi. Sao Paulo: Serra da Bocaina (44, 22), Bananal (33, 12), Mogi das Cruzes (14), Campos do Jordao (14), Salesopolis (23, 32), Paranapiacaba (19), Alto da Serra (19), Ubatuba (13), Campo Grande (14, 19). H. c. camargoi. Sao Paulo: Itarare (49), Porto Cabral (19), Osasco (1g, 19), Bauru (1?), Rio Feio (14, 19), Embu-guacu (192); Parana: Castro (1g, 32), Corvo (23, 12); Santa Catarina: Porto Feliz (23, 32); Rio Grande do Sul: Canela (134), Sao Joao do Monte Negro (1). Remarks. The two populations have an extensive zone of inter- gradation. Populations within this region tend to be quite variable in the extent of back streaking. There is a general trend toward increased number and size in the back streaks as one moves south through the zone of intergradation. However, even in the southern localities of Campo Grande and Salesopolis there are specimens with only a few hairstreaks that would appear at home among the series of contaminatus. There occur alongside specimens that match specimens of camargoi, as well as intermediate specimens. F.M.C. da Silva & D. F. Stotz 100 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) one RK AGU ; ay i ch } Y; Lbs ENE UN OK a7 Figure 1. Distribution of MHeliobletus contaminatus: @®, H. c. contaminatus; A, H. c. contaminatus x H. c. camargoi; 1, type locality of H. c. camargot; @, H. c. camargot. Nominate contaminatus is significantly larger than camargoi in both wing and tail measurements, populations in the zone of intergradation being intermediate (Table 1). Bill and tarsal measurements do not differ between the taxa. Despite the differences in wing and tail measurements, there is substantial overlap between the two subspecies. In the zone of intergradation, birds seem especially variable. In parallel with the plumage variation, size decreases on average from north to south. How- ever, within localities, specimens with plumage characters resembling contaminatus do not tend to be larger than those resembling camargot. F. M.C. da Silva & D. F. Stotz 101 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) TABLE 1 Measurements of populations of Heliobletus contaminatus. The first line gives range and sample size (in parentheses), the second mean and standard deviation (in parentheses) Wing Tail (flattened) H. c. contaminatus 3 70.0—78.0 (10) 55.0—64.0 (9) 73.2 (2.8) 59.0 (3.2) 2 67.0—71.0 (3) 59:0;°52.5 68.5 (2.2) H. c. contaminatus X 3 66.0—78.0 (15) 51.5-—62.0 (15) H. c. camargot 72.0 (3.0) 56.9 (3.2) Q 65.0-73.5 (7) 51.5-58.5 (7) 68.6 (3.3) 54.5 (2.1) H. c. camargot 3 66.0—75.0 (11) 51.5—55.0 (8) 69.1 (2.9) 55.3 (3.0) 2 64.0—68.0 (11) 52.0-55.5 (8) 64.5 (1.1) 53.9 (1.3) The pattern of variation shown by Heliobletus contaminatus is very similar to that in another forest furnariid endemic to southeastern Brazil, Cichlocolaptes leucophrys. It has anorthern subspecies (holti) and a south- ern subspecies (/eucophrys), which intergrade in the extreme northeastern part of Sao Paulo, Serra da Bocaina (Pinto 1978). However, Heliobletus shows evidence of intergradation over a wider area, extending farther to the west (to Campos do Jordao) and south (to the outskirts of the city of Sao Paulo), than in Cichlocolaptes. Acknowledgements We would like to thank Profs. D. M. Teixeira, J. B. Nacinovic and G. Luigi for their help to JMCS at the Museu Nacional. The studies of JMCS were supported by the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPq), the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation/World Wildlife Fund-US and the Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, while those of DFS were supported by the Fundagao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo (FAPESP). References: Hellmayr, C. H. 1925. Catalogue of birds of the Americas. Part IV. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 13. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1966. The Species of Birds of South America and their Distribution. Livingston Publ. Co., Narberth, Pennsylvania. Pinto, O. M. de O. 1978. Novo Catalogo das Aves do Brasil. Pt. 1. Sao Paulo. Sick, H. 1985. Ornitologia Brasileira, uma Introdugao. Ed. Univ. de Brasilia. Smithe, F. B. 1975. Naturalist’s Color Guide. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., New York. Vaurie, C. 1980. Taxonomy and geographical distribution of the Furnariidae (Aves, Passeriformes). Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 166: 1-357. Addresses: J. M. C. da Silva, Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, Departamento de Zoologia, C.P. 399, 66040, Belém, PA, Brazil. Douglas F. Stotz, Museu de Zoologia, Universidade de Sao Paulo, C.P. 7172, 01064, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 A.J. F. K. Craig 102 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) The identification of Euplectes species in non-breeding plumage OPAL ete Crate Received 10 Fuly 1991 The genus Euplectes as currently defined (Hall & Moreau 1970) includes 16 Afrotropical ploceid species of savanna and grasslands. Many have extensive geographical ranges, and five or more species may be found sympatrically at a single locality (cf. Hall & Moreau 1970, Lewis & Pomeroy 1989). Hybrids have been recorded in captivity (Colahan & Craig 1981), but have not been reported from free-living populations to date. In the breeding season male birds have distinctive nuptial plumage, but during the non-breeding season their eclipse plumage may resemble that of females and subadult males very closely, and then they lack obvious species-specific features. This has led to major identifi- cation problems, even in the hand; in every museum collection which I have examined, I have found misidentified specimens in eclipse plumage. While preparing species accounts for a forthcoming volume of Birds of Africa, | have examined and measured large series of specimens of all Euplectes species, and I also have field experience of eight species from ringing and behavioural studies in southern Africa. In the field, the South African species of Euplectes in eclipse plumage can be identified visually with practice, and the flight calls of the species which I know well are distinguishable by ear, and in sonagrams (Craig 1976). This paper is intended to assist in identifying birds in the hand, particularly museum specimens, although some of the characters may also prove useful in the field. In all Euplectes species which have been studied to date, males are polygynous and do not acquire nuptial plumage in the first breeding season after hatching (Craig 1980). Sexual dimorphism in size is most striking in the Longtailed Widow E. progne (Craig 1989), and three age and sex categories can often be distinguished on the basis of body size: adult males, subadult males, and females (e.g. Craig & Manson 1981). For several species the age at first breeding is not definitely known, and it may exceed two years. A complete post-juvenile moult appears to be characteristic of this genus, and probably of all African ploceids (Craig 1983). Juvenile birds can be recognised by a general buffy tone to the plumage, but this is retained for only a few months after hatching. Juven- iles and subadult males resemble females in plumage, but adult males of some species retain characteristic plumage features in eclipse plumage. This group will be dealt with first. Key to Euplectes males with black remigées in eclipse plumage 1°. Coloured epaulet,present......:. stctv-wcl cpa oc 2 No:coloured:epaulety |... 40cm ie erontaesuds oR ee 6 A. }. F. K. Craig 103 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) =) salbonotatus ===) aTaens Se onilanis =) GICKOWII eee At laubl ==, INOndeaceus See ey, NIMNACKOULUS VO Sasa 70 80. .90 - 400! “11OGed2On sISOn M14 OagE15O0rHiG6O Figure 1. Wing-length ranges (mm) of male Euplectes with black primary remiges. Sample sizes are: 72 albonotatus; 137 ardens; 132 axillaris; 57 gierowii; 65 hartlaubi; 137 hordeaceus, 106 macrourus; 236 progne. Dee Danee with yellow teathers oe fie. ee Se A ee a 3 Epaulet with red ororange feathers’ 22) HOU, 2279V 02 Nsom | 5 Sion" LEMONY SHUT OL Sean oe ot 8 5. eel ey Rea Ml ie A AM 0S MRED deh capensis ORV Cl LONVELUIC Dem are ee eee ey armen re eee Cone Winn ay OS MEER MAE EAI), 4 Taw niteunderwing. white oniepaulet. ~ 25) 88. albonotatus Buffy underwing, only yellow onepaulet.... . . 2. . macrourus Sooty underwing, yellow and buffepaulet ......... hartlaubi 5. Cinnamon brown underwing, rectrices broad and rounded axillaris Sooty underwing, rectrices narrow and pointed ....... progne 6. Rectrices narrow, pointed, undertail coverts dark with whitish VAR OMINS tr eee Tere ie oA ete cartes Red ee car Tan oe Veg ee ctl eons cs ardens Rectrices rounded; undertail’coverts’ plain’. 4 21992 HST Tp | th 7. Very dark dorsally, outermost primary long(>15mm). . gierowi Brown dorsally, outermost primary short(<10mm) . . hordeaceus Figure 1 gives an indication of the ranges of wing-length represented by these species. All measurements were taken by me personally on museum specimens, and I have included birds from most geographical areas in these samples, which are intended as a broad guide only. Clearly male FE. progne are larger than any other species, with hartlaubi the next largest and overlapping little with the other species. A full account of geographical variation in size in the different species groups will be published elsewhere. In all female and subadult birds the bill colour is brown or horn, whereas in breeding males it is black or bluish. For the Red Bishop E. orix, and possibly some other species, the change in bill colour can be correlated with testicular development and used as an index of breeding condition (Craig 1975). However, male Red-shouldered Widows E. axillaris acquire a blue bill in their first breeding season, and the colour is retained thereafter. Thus birds with black remiges and brown bills are one year old and have undergone their second complete moult, but have not yet bred (Craig & Manson 1981). This sequence may apply to other species also. A. }. F.K. Craig 104 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Key to Euplectes species with brown remiges in eclipse plumage iP Ae 10. f 1. 1 13. 14. Rumpiteatherssyellowishicoloureds casey eee capensis INovcolouredregionion rump; 3° 2.00.0) ee 2 Underwing covertsjwhite or pale”! 74". === ee 3 Underwing coverts not white’. -". fynset. eee 4 Small yellow or cinnamon epaulet, tawny brown dorsally albonotatus No epaulet, cinnamon patch on chest, cinnamon brown dorsally sprays. aed lowtes soy ert tae cba ke enk CORO Re ee aureus . Underwing coverts bright cinnamon brown ........ axillaris WUnderwing,covertsisooty, -4a4 Sue.o> Gyre aeeolen toe 5 Underwing coverts!browmor buffy- 94}. 5: Wioces 100 eee 9 . Leading edge of wing bright orange-brown ........ hartlaubi Weading edge of wingidarkiorisootyis). 050 (sea). ae 6 . Small epaulet, lesser coverts orange-brown ......... progne Norepauletinuns dine fr ag, lhAnsens BR et 7 ‘ Outermost primary longs (=15 mm) 28 eee glerowit Outermost'primary short'(< 10'mm).,.. ). 20236, 9. eee 8 . Undertail coverts pointed, with dark central markings, chest lacks streaks’ or spots® . "te, MAMA TE BRN Mite SE Ga Ae ardens Undertail coverts unmarked, chest with narrow brown streaks on Teathenst ct We My ore ee entree ho ee PAOZ ae i AES i See ae hordeaceus -wupaulet pale'orange-=browny\ |: ucn Mit rte, cate ee jacRsoni Epoaulet pale yellow. \" 24.8, cane Vice Colby ark ate ce Ree macrourus ING ED ae tee rte a ea a sta en at eae: ec se et 10 Chest with clear band of heavy streaking, broad yellowish SUpenciliary Stripe, os pees. wd te) eh Sroualeg on. icicle ao eee afer Chest with general streaking, or streaks faint toabsent .... . ial Undertail coverts pointed with dark central markings . . . . ardens Undertail coverts not pointed, light coloured 15°.) ye ape WZ Chest and flanks; wathstreaky markings, 4.0.0 0s ht. Sule. eee OriXx Ventral streaks absent,or very restricted ;... 05... snleu ute ocetdncncue 13 Primary remiges with yellowish margins. ........ diadematus Primary-remiges, wathibuth margins, yu 1, suice.d Wheel heen 14 No yentralstreakim es oyeus tats uly ra ncice) otipin ord coils ch eer? nigroventris Eaint streaking on.chest;and\flanks, .. .. 24%) 3). seas franciscanus Figure 2 shows the size ranges of the species in the second key, com- piled in the same way as Figure 1. E. pregne is again the largest species, but there is considerable overlap in size with F.. hartlaubi and jacksoni, and these species may be locally sympatric. In size E. orix can overlap with all species except progne, but the largest birds occur in the southwestern Cape in South Africa (pers. obs.). In South Africa, male E. orix are noticeably more heavily streaked ventrally than females, and this may apply to other species too. Southern birds also tend to be more streaked than northern populations, but FE. orix always seems to lack buff patches on the chest. The red bishops are similar in general appearance in eclipse plumage, but E. gierowii and hordeaceus are much heavier-billed than franciscanus, nigroventris and orix. Ventrally gierowi is much darker than the other species. A. J. F. K. Craig 105 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) ===> afer 7, albonotatus c——> ardens a) aureus —=—————— 7 sa xillanls 7 "capensis == diadematus e===— ss franciscanus = GIehOwill =e Avo oc—— hordeaceus ACK SON ss IMACKOURUS c<—) nigroventris Sa OFX POQne rrr SOuay 60). pw On, BOOM IOs 1OOnaA Omi I2O, ISOuaIAO Figure 2. Wing-length ranges (mm) of male and female Euplectes with brown primary remiges. Sample sizes are: 99 afer; 57 albonotatus; 106 ardens, 42 aureus; 61 axillaris; 83 capensis; 24 diadematus, 144 franciscanus; 28 gierowi1; 69 hartlaubi; 97 hordeaceus; 94 jacksoni; 108 macrourus; 81 nigroventris; 152 orix; 113 progne. The four smallest species, EF. afer, diadematus, franciscanus and nigroventris, may be sympatric in parts of East Africa. E. afer is darkly streaked dorsally, while the superciliary stripe is generally very broad and prominent, extending from the base of the bill to the ear coverts. Both diadematus and nigroventris have a similar restricted range in the coastal region of Kenya (Lewis & Pomeroy 1989). However, diadematus gener- ally has a narrow buff collar across the upper chest, which is absent in nigroventris. E.. franciscanus can occur with diadematus in Somalia (Ash & Miskell 1983), and may also have buffy areas on the chest, particularly in birds from Kenya and Uganda. East African birds seem to be little streaked ventrally, while the West African populations are more heavily streaked and resemble E. orix more closely. E.. capensis is distinctive, since all races and age classes have both yellow edging to the epaulet feathers and a yellowish patch on the rump; this is the only species with a coloured area on the rump in eclipse plumage. The birds are also heavily streaked ventrally, but in different populations the bill of male birds may be uniform black or black above and white below, and the remiges and rectrices may be brown or black. Hall & Moreau (1970) regard this species as closest to E. aureus, in which the dorsal A. ¥. F.K. Craig 106 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) feathers are broadly edged with cinnamon brown, and a cinnamon patch on the chest contrasts with the pale chin and belly. Male E. axillaris with black remiges resemble E. progne in the same plumage, but they are considerably smaller (Fig. 1), and lack pointed rectrices. Brown-plumaged birds always have cinnamon edging to the epaulet feathers and the cinnamon underwing is found only in this species. Within its restricted range, FE. jacksoni is only likely to be con- fused with progne, but can be separated immediately on underwing colour. EF. hartlaubi is another species which resembles progne in some respects, but apart from the bright edges to the wing, it has a very heavy bill, much deeper than that of progne and with a prominent shield on the frons. E.. albonotatus has a whitish underwing and is very pale ventrally. The most similar species is macrourus, which also has a yellow epaulet, but it has a brown underwing and 1s heavier-billed, with dark ventral plumage. ‘The most widespread species in the genus is EF. ardens, which is also variable in a number of characters, and it makes up the largest proportion of misidentified specimens which I have found. A sooty underwing is typical of southern birds, but elsewhere the underwing may have brown feathers. ‘The bill is more slender than in similar-sized species, and the worn rectrices may be quite pointed, while the shape and markings of the undertail coverts do seem to be consistent in all populations. In most populations an unstreaked chest with yellowish-buff colouring is a reli- able character, but the montane races in East Africa FE’. ardens laticaudus and E. a. suahelicus may have a streaky chest (see key). Bowen (1931) noted males of FE. a. suahelicus in post-nuptial moult growing long rec- trices, and it appears from the specimens which I have seen that in this race and E. a. laticaudus males retain long rectrices in eclipse plumage. This should be checked in the field. There have been few attempts to provide keys for the identification of brown-plumaged Fuplectes. Delacour & Edmond-Blanc (1933) gave a detailed key to males in eclipse plumage and females, and their descrip- tions are accurate. However, franciscanus was not treated as a separate species, and the key uses measurements which will overlap substantially in some populations. Schouteden (1960) provided a key to the Euplectes species recorded in Zaire, Rwanda and Burundi. He noted differences in the colour of the underwing coverts, but also made use of measurements which are typical only of the populations in this region of Africa. For West Africa, Dekeyser & Derivot (1966) included ploceids and estrildids in the same key, and in some instances several species are not separated by their key. Similarly the keys in Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1955, 1962, 1973) include weavers, sparrows and waxbills, so that they become very difh- cult to use, and there are certainly some errors. Belcher (1930) drew up a useful key to the Euplectes species in Malawi, and Priest (1936) included it in his book, noting those species which occurred 1n his region. In southern Africa, Borrett & Brooke (1970) described the eclipse plumages of Euplectes from Zimbabwe briefly, but left the identification problems unresolved. The Vidua species which they included in their discussion are readily separated from ploceids by the head pattern; either with a prominent central stripe on the crown, or a uniform brown cap. A. F. F. K. Craig 107 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Recently Johnson & Horner (1986) have produced a key to seven southern African Euplectes species, together with the Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea and the Red-headed Quelea Q. erythrops. 'These two species can be confused with Euplectes species, and are often associated with them in flocks. Further north, the Cardinal Quelea QO. cardinalis closely resembles the Red-headed Quelea in the hand (R. Medland, pers. comm.), and in dorsal view these two species are very like the Red Bishop, although the queleas’ bill is deeper and more powerful. However, queleas are unstreaked ventrally, very faintly streaked on the crown which tends to be greyish or yellowish, with a yellow or orange tinge to the feathers around the base of the bill, and they have greenish-yellow outer margins to the primary remiges. Johnson & Horner (1986) are the first to have used wing formulas to characterise Euplectes species. This system is widely used for identifying passerine birds, but the wing formula cannot be determined accurately for birds with wing moult, or worn primary remiges. I found that mem- bers of species-groups suchas E. franciscanus, nigroventris and orix cannot be separated satisfactorily on wing formula, and species which are readily separable on this characteristic such as E. orix and afer are reliably identi- fiable by other features. I would welcome critical comment on the keys in this paper from ornithologists with field experience in East and West Africa. Acknowledgements I am grateful to M. LeCroy and R. W. Dickerman, American Museum of Natural History, P. Colston and A. Vale, British Museum (Natural History), J. Mendelsohn, Durban Natural Science Museum, C. J. Vernon, East London Museum, W. S. Lanyon, Field Museum of Natural History, M. Louette, Koninklijk Museum voor Midden-Afrika, K.-L. Schuchmann, Museum Alexander Koenig, R. L. Zusi, United States National Museum, H. Schifter, Vienna Natural History Museum, J. Komen, Windhoek Museum, and H. D. Jackson, Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, for access to material in these collections and for other assistance. Funds were provided by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, the Southern African Ornithological Society, and Rhodes University. References: Ash, J. S. & Miskell, J. E. 1983. Birds of Somalia. Scopus, Supplement 1. Belcher, C. F. 1930. The Birds of Nyasaland. Technical Press. Borrett, R. P. & Brooke, R. K. 1970. A guide to the weaver finches of the genera Quelea, Euplectes and Vidua in Rhodesia. Honeyguide 63: 17-24, 40. Bowen, W. W. 1931. East African birds collected during the Gray African Expedition— 1929. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sct. Philadelphia 83: 11-79. Colahan, B. D. & Craig, A. 1981. Euplectes hybrids. Ostrich 52: 58-59. Craig, A. 1975. Hodenreife, Prachtkleid und Schnabelfarbung beim Oryxweber (Euplectes orix). ¥. Orn. 116: 87-93. Craig, A.J. F. K. 1976. Vocalizations of male Euplectes in captivity. Z. Tierpsychol. 41: 191-— 201. Craig, A. J. F. K. 1980. Behaviour and evolution in the genus Euplectes. #. Orn. 121: 144-161. Craig, A. J. F. K. 1983. Moult in southern African passerine birds: a review. Ostrich 54: 220-237. Craig, A.J. F. K. 1989. Tail length and sexual selection in the polygynous longtailed widow (Euplectes progne): a cautionary tale. S. Afr. J. Sci. 85: 523-524. Craig, A. J. F. K. & Manson, A. J. 1981. Sexing Euplectes species by wing-length. Ostrich 52: 9-16. Delacour, J. & Edmond-Blanc, F. 1933. Monographie des veuves (revision des genres Euplectes et Vidua). Oiseau 3: 519-562. C. J. Raxworthy & P. R. Colston 108 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Dekeyser, P. L. & Derivot, J. H. 1966. Les Oiseaux de l'Ouest Africain. Institut Fondamental d’ Afrique Noire. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. British Museum (Natural History). Lewis, A. & Pomeroy, D. 1989. A Bird Atlas of Kenya. A. A. Balkema. Johnson, D. F. & Horner, R. F. 1986. Identifying widows, bishops and queleas in female plumage. Bokmakierie 38: 13-17. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1955. Birds of Eastern and North Eastern Africa. Vol. 2. Longmans. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1962. Birds of the Southern Third of Africa. Vol. 2. Longmans. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1973. Birds of West Central and Western Africa. Vol. 3. Longmans. Priest, C. D. 1936. The Birds of Southern Rhodesia. Vol. 4. William Clowes. Schouteden, H. 1960. Faune du Congo Belge et du Ruanda-Urundi. V. Oiseaux Passereaux (2). Ann. Mus. Royal Congo Belge, Tervuren 89: 1-328. Address: Department of Zoology & Entomology, Rhodes University, 6140 Grahamstown, South Africa. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Conclusive evidence for the continuing existence of the Madagascar Serpent-eagle Eutriorchis astur by C. F. Raxworthy G P.R. Colston Received 12 Fuly 1991 The Madagascar Serpent-eagle Eutriorchis astur is one of the rarest birds of prey in the world. It is known from only eleven museum speci- mens (Ferguson-Lees et al. in press), the last of which were collected between 1928 and 1930 (Dee 1986). There have been several possible sight records in recent decades from Marojejy Reserve, in northeastern Madagascar. A Malagasy forestry official reported four or five sightings of a raptor that may have been the Madagascar Serpent-eagle in Marojejy between 1964 and 1977 (Collar & Stuart 1985). Sheldon & Duckworth (1990) have recently provided a detailed account of their observation of a Madagascar Serpent-eagle, which was made in 1988 in the Maroiejy Reserve (14°21'S, 49°38’E) at 850-900 m. Some uncertainty, however, is always likely to result from sight reports of the Madagascar Serpent-eagle due to its close similarity in size and plumage to the sympatric Henst’s Goshawk Accipiter hensti (Langrand 1990). The similarity between the two species is so great that three museum specimens of the Madagascar Serpent-eagle were originally misidentified as Henst’s Goshawk (Sheldon & Duckworth 1990). During February and March 1990, the Madagascar Environmental Research Group (MERG) undertook a faunal survey of the Ambatovaky Special Reserve, with an eight member research team of Malagasy and British zoologists. On 23 February 1990, CJR found an almost fully C. J. Raxworthy & P. R. Colston 109 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) decomposed body of a large raptor by a trail, and collected the skull (including lower jaw) and three primary feathers, for identification. It would have been possible to have collected the entire skeleton and most of the feathers, but sadly at the time of discovery the importance of this material was not known. The raptor was identified by P. R. Colston as Eutriorchis astur, and this was subsequently confirmed by G. S. Cowles, C. Edelstam, I. J. Ferguson-Lees, S. Goodman and D. Mead. Specimen description The skull (BM S/1991.11.1) measures 79 mm maximum length, maxi- mum width 47mm, maximum depth 34.5mm. The rhamphotheca is missing, but otherwise the skull and lower jaw are entire. This is the only intact skull known for Eutriorchis astur. There are currently no skeletal specimens of this species (Wood & Schnell 1986). The three feathers (BM 1991.2.1-3) are the 7th, 8th and 9th primary feathers from the left wing. These feathers are most likely to have come from an adult male (C. Edelstam). The barring pattern on the primary feathers of the Ambatovaky specimen matches the feathers of the Eutriorchis astur skin held at the Sub-department of Ornithology, British Museum (Natural History), Tring. Locality information The raptor remains were found in the Ambatovaky Special Reserve, Province of Toamasina (Tamatave), 16°51'S, 49°08’E, lying at the base of a tree in a moist low-lying area, next to the trail which runs between the villages of lIampirano and Ranomena II. The area was covered in primary rainforest, at an altitude of 650 m. The site is four days walk west from the closest road, which was at Soanierana Ivongo, Province of ‘Toamasina (T'amatave). It is worth noting that the area where the Eutriorchis astur was found is in the heart of the eastern rainforest belt. Ambatovaky Special Reserve is one of the largest rainforest reserves, with an area of 60,050 ha (IUCN/UNEP/WWFE 1987). The forest in the area where the specimen was found was almost completely intact, and human disturbance was limited to small clearings around the villages of Ranomena I] and Iampirano. The trail was typically used by less than five people daily. Discussion It is impossible to be sure how the eagle died. The fact that it was found by a trail suggests it may have been killed by a local villager; large raptors are disliked in many villages because some species will steal young chick- ens. Catapults or slings are used throughout Madagascar to hunt birds (such as pigeons and couas). When discovered, the raptor’s body was entire, and had not been disturbed by scavengers since most of the bones were still articulated. This is surprising since insectivorous mammals (tenricids) and carnivorous mammals (viverrids) were common in the area. This was the only bird skeleton found by CJR during more than 12 months fieldwork in rainforest during the course of five years. It would seem likely that vertebrate corpses are quickly scavenged under normal conditions. C. J. Raxworthy & P. R. Colston 110 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) ‘The Madagascar Serpent-eagle is obviously difficult to detect. During the 8-week survey of Ambatovaky, with two ornithologists on the team, no living example of this species was seen. Seven other raptors were observed at Ambatovaky: Polyboroides radiatus, Accipiter henstii, Accipiter francesi, Buteo brachypterus, Falco newtoni, Falco eleonorae and Falco concolor (Thompson & Evans, in press). The Henst’s Goshawk was not recorded at the site of the Madagascar Serpent-eagle, but in lower altitude rainforest at 350—450 m, 20 km further to the east. Sheldon & Duckworth (1990) report that the Madagascar Serpent- Eagle is extremely elusive. Their single observation was made just 500 m from their camp in an area of forest which was intensively surveyed for 18 days. The eagle is reported to be a sub-canopy bird (Sheldon & Duckworth 1990), which makes observation difficult. It appears to be a strict rainforest specialist; all the locality records are from the eastern rainforest belt, from primary forest (or secondary forest at the edge of primary forest) (Dee 1986). The Marojejy observation and the Ambatovaky specimen were both from areas of primary rainforest that have suffered minimal human dis- turbance. In 1930 a specimen was collected from Analamazaotra, near Périnet (Dee 1986). This area has subsequently been visited and surveyed by many biologists over the past 30 years, but there have been no further observations. However Perinet, and the surrounding area, has become increasingly exposed to human disturbance in the form of population growth, deforestation, mineral extraction, tourism and road traffic; and so it seems probable that the serpent-eagle has been lost from this area as human disturbance has increased. Preserving the Madagascar Serpent-eagle is one of the biggest challenges to conservationists working in Madagascar. Being apparently dependent on large areas of undisturbed primary rainforest, it is probably one of the first faunal elements to be lost as a result of human disturbance. Its elusive nature will make it difficult to confirm its presence within protected areas, and almost impossible to monitor natural populations. Clearly the most effective conservation measure must be to protect exten- sive areas of primary rainforest within its known range (between the latitudes 15° and 19°S). Significant suitable forest does occur within pro- tected reserves, such as Marojejy, Masoala, Ambatovaky, Zahamena, and Mantady, and conservation initiatives are now underway in most of these areas. But we do not know what impact the inevitable fragmentation of the rainforest belt will have on the remaining Madagascan Serpent-eagle populations, or the critical minimum size of reserve needed to protect populations in the long term. More survey work is urgently required. Acknowledgements We would like to thank the Direction des Eaux et Foréts, the Ministeére de |’Enseignement Supérieur and the Ministére de la Recherche Scientifique et Technologique pour le Developpement for their support and approval of the Ambatovaky MERG Expedition. The following team members all contributed to the success of the expedition: T. Bardon, M. Evans, J. B. Ramanamanjato, A. Raselimanana, J. C. Razafimahaimodison, P. Thompson, A. Wilson. We would also like to thank O. Langrand, M. Nicoll, N. Quansah, F. Rakotondraparany and P. J. Stephenson for their help in Madagascar, and S. Goodman and T. Schulenberg for helpful comments on an earlier version of this manuscript. P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 111 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) The expedition was funded by the following sponsors whom we would like to thank: the Loke Wan Tho Memorial Trust, Fauna and Flora Preservation Society, International Council for Bird Preservation, Royal Geographical Society, The Conservation Foundation, Gilchrist Educational Trust, Elmgrant Trust, Percy Sladen Trust, British Ornithologists’ Union, British Museum (Natural History), Aldeburgh, Leiston and Saxmundhan Lions Club, Rotary Club of Saxmundham and District and the A. S. Butler Trust. References: Collar, N. J. & Stuart, S. N. 1985. Threatened Birds of Africa and Related Islands. [\UCN/ ICBP, Cambridge. Dee, T. J. 1986. The Endemic Birds of Madagascar. 1CBP, Cambridge. Ferguson-Lees, I. J., Franklin, K., Mead, D. & Burton, P. In press. Birds of Prey: an identification guide to the raptors of the world. Christopher Helm. IUCN/UNEP/WWE (ed. M. D. Jenkins) 1987. Madagascar, an Environmental Profile. IUCN, Cambridge. Langrand, O. 1990. A Guide to the Birds of Madagascar. Yale University Press. Sheldon, B. C. & Duckworth, J. W. 1990. Rediscovery of the Madagascar Serpent-eagle Eutriorchis astur. Bull. Brit. Orn., Cl. 110: 126-130. Thompson, P. M. & Evans, M.1I. In press. The birds of Ambatovaky. In P. M. Thompson & M. I. Evans (eds), A Survey of Ambatovaky Special Reserve, Madagascar. MERG, London. Wood, D.S. & Schnell, G. D. 1986. Revised World Inventory of Avian Skeletal Specimens, 1986. American Ornithologists’ Union and Oklahoma Biological Survey, Norman, Oklahoma. Addresses: Dr. C. J. Raxworthy, Division of Herpetology, Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1079, U.S.A. P. R. Colston, British Museum (Natural History), Tring, Herts HP23 6AP, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 On the taxonomic status of Phylloscopus affinis and Phylloscopus subaffinis by Per Alstrom & Urban Olsson Received 27 Fuly 1991 Phylloscopus affinis and P. subaffinis were originally described as separate species, although there is some confusion surrounding the latter. The former was described by Tickell (1833) under the name Motacilla Offinis (lapsus for affinis) and the latter by David & Oustalet (1877) under the name Orveopneuste affinis (later Ogilvie-Grant (1910) proposed the now valid name P. subaffinis). ‘This view was maintained by Ticehurst (1938), Vaurie (1959) and Cheng (1987). However, some recent workers, Williamson (1967) and Watson (1986), have chosen to treat them as conspecific. Phylloscopus affinis is found from Pakistan and Kashmir eastwards along the Himalayas to Yunnan province, China, and from there north- wards to Qinghai province, China. Phylloscopus subaffinis breeds in China from Yunnan and Sichuan provinces eastwards to Fujian province. Accordingly, the two species are mostly allopatric, but their distributions P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 112 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Figure 1. Map illustrating the distribution of P. affinis (western shaded area) and P. subaffinis (eastern area). The region of known overlap is shown. The locations of Wolong (@) and Emei Shan (©) are indicated. overlap in a large area in China, covering parts of Gansu, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces (Fig. 1). Material and methods Museum studies ‘The measurements of a sample of males and females of both species were taken in the American Museum of Natural History, New York, in the British Museum (Natural History), Tring, and in the Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Beijing, China. The sexual classification was made according to the labels. Wing-length (maximum length), tail-length and bill-length (to skull) were measured, the two former with a precision to 0.5 mm, the latter to 0.1 mm. In addition plumage characters were examined at four museums: British Museum (Natural History), Tring; American Museum of Natural History, New York; Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Bewying, China; and Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Kunming, China. Field studies Numerous individuals of both species have been observed, mainly dur- ing winter and spring/summer, P. affinis in Kashmir, Nepal and Xizang, Qinghai and Sichuan provinces, China, and P. subaffinis in Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, China, and northern Thailand. Five live individuals of P. affinis and four of P. subaffinis have been examined in the hand. In June 1990 field observations were made and playback experiments carried out at two locations in Sichuan Province, China (Fig. 1). The first area, Wolong National Park (30°50’N, 102°55’E), is a rugged mountain P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 113 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) region, with steep valleys between peaks reaching altitudes of up to 6250 m. Most of the observations were made at an altitude of approxi- mately 3500 m, in the region around and immediately below the tree- limit. Both species occur sympatrically at this location; Phylloscopus subaffinis was also found at lower altitude. The second location is the summit of Emei Shan (29°31'N, 103°20’E). The altitude here is c.3000m, which is lower than, or just at, the tree-limit. There are patches of spruce Abies spp. of varying size, broken up by large open areas covered with dwarf bamboo. Only P. subaffinis occurs here. The recordings of songs and calls were made with a ‘“Telinga Pro’ omnidirectional mono condensor microphone, ranging between 40-— 18,000 Hz, mounted at the focal point of a58 cm parabolic reflector, anda Sony WM D6 cassette recorder, operating at standard speed. The same tapeplayer was used in the playback experiments together with a custom- made speaker, ‘“Telinga’. For each species a tape with a 2-minute segment of fairly continuous song, with the song strophes at natural intervals, was prepared, using recordings by P.A. from May 1987, Phylloscopus affinis from Qamdo, Xizang province (30°50'N, 97°20’E), and P. subaffinis from Emei Shan. Sonagrams were produced by Richard Ranft, British Library of Wildlife Sounds, London. There are different ways to set up a playback experiment, depending on what species are involved or what questions one seeks an answer to. Catchpole (1973, 1977, 1978) and Weeden & Falls (1959) describe methods for different purposes. In this study, subjects, locations or time of day could not be chosen randomly. The two species were rather sparse and patchily distributed in the two test areas. Several individuals were exposed to the test situation, but some did not approach when their own species’ song was played, or showed so little interest that no proper obser- vations could be made. Only the test situations where a subject clearly reacted to its own species’ song are included in this study. We have chosen to use the method described below, whenever possible. In two of the described test situations (see Appendix 1), the songs were only played once. In the remainder the experiment was repeated. When a singing male of either species was located, a loudspeaker was placed in a convenient place near the bird. One of us, ‘Operating the tape- player, placed himself 15—20 m away from the speaker. The other person was watching from the place with the best view of the speaker and its surroundings. When the bird was in view, the song of the other species was played for 2 minutes, and the bird’s actions recorded. This was fol- lowed by a brief pause. Next the song of its own species was played for 2 minutes, and again the reaction was recorded. As a double check this whole procedure was in most cases repeated once more, after a short pause. ‘Two different times were measured: (1) the latency of response, i.e. the time from the start of a played song until the bird first approached the speaker; (2) the total time spent near the speaker. Catchpole (1973, 1977, 1978), who studied Acrocephalus warblers in reedbeds, used the time spent within 1 m of the speaker as a reference. This turned out not to be relevant in our study, since the habitat was less uniform. Our two species P. Alstroém & U. Olsson 114 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) also showed a somewhat different behaviour when searching for the pre- sumed intruder (see below), so the word ‘near’ has a slightly different meaning for each of them. Results Biometry Males of both species have on average longer wings, tail and bill than their respective females (Table 1, Figs 2—4). A statistical comparison between the sexes within each species is shown in Table 2. Because of this sexual dimorphism, it is important to treat each sex separately, when comparing the two species (‘Table 3). As P. affinis has relatively long wings and short tail, and P. subaffinis the other way round, the ratio between wing-length and tail-length seems to be the most useful biometrical value for identifying single specimens of these two species, but even here there is some overlap (Fig. 5). AMann—Whitney U-test shows highly significant differences for both males, (Z(corrected for ties)= —6.797, P=0.0001; n(affinis)=35, n(subaffinis)=31) and females, (Z(corrected for ties)= —5.349, P=0.0001; n(affinis) = 24, n(subaffinis) = 25). As would be expected, differences in wing/tail ratio between males and females within each species are slight. Phylloscopus subaffinis often shows a faint but still rather distinct emar- gination on the 4th primary (numbered descendently), whereas P. affinis shows at the most a trace of emargination on the 4th primary. In the field, P. affinis appears slightly larger and looks more front-heavy, due to longer bill, larger bulk and _ proportionately shorter tail. Plumage The supercilium of P. affinis generally looks more prominent and, especially in front of the eye, better defined than in P. subaffinis; and it is on average somewhat longer. The colour is a cleaner, clearer yellow than in P. subaffinis. In P. affinis the supercilium often becomes paler, some- times almost whitish, towards the rear, whereas in P. subaffinis the supercilium is generally more uniformly coloured. Phylloscopus affints frequently shows a faint darker line above the supercilium; P. subaffinis rarely shows this. The eye-stripe is usually better defined and contrasts more clearly with the paler and more yellow ear-coverts in P. affinis. Normally P. subaffinis shows duskier ear-covers and as a result a more indistinct eye-stripe, but the eye-stripe may be quite well defined and similar to that of P. affinis. The underparts are more lemon yellow, less buffish, in P. affinis than in P. subaffinis. However, P. affinis often shows a distinct brownish hue to the breast and, particularly, the flanks, but even so the belly is more lemon-yellow than in P. subaffinis. The colour of the upperside is very similar in the two species and is of no importance for identification. Bare parts In P. affinis there is little or no dark at the tip of the lower mandible, whereas in P. subaffinis the tip is extensively dark. In long series of P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 115 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) TABLE 1 Mean values and standard deviations for three biometrical traits measured. The wing/tail ratio is the most useful value for classification Wing-length Tail-length Bill-length Wing/tail ratio n Mean s.d. n Mean s.d. n Mean s.d. n Mean s.d. P. affinis 3 351 5983" 220 35) 44.45 2.927 33), 1225), O62, 857 1234 1-0:060 2 24 55.2 2.27 24 41.5 2.68 24 12.4 0.46 24 1.33 0.068 P. subaffinis 3 S537 284. 31) 45.6) 2-77, Sl 121 OS aS 1b 18902042 2 25% 51.2 1.64 25 43:8 ol-74 24 12:0 - 0.52) 2541-17 1 0:048 TABLE 2 Males are on average larger than females in the three biometrical traits measured. In both species a nonparametric ranking test (Mann—Whitney U-test) shows significant differences in both wing-lengths and tail-length between males and females. The difference in bill-length is, however, slight and not significant n Z 3 Q (corrected for ties) Jz P. affinis wing 35 24 —5.108 0.0001 tail 85 24 — 3.413 0.0006 bill 33 24 —0.713 0.4759 P. subaffinis wing 31 25 — 3.929 0.0001 tail 31 25 —2.557 0.0106 bill 31 24 —0.902 0.3668 TABLE 3 For both species the difference in wing length is highly significant, when each sex is compared separately (Mann-Whitney U-test). The difference in tail length, is significant only between females. While the tail is on average longer in subaffinis, affinis shows an on average significantly longer wing. This produces a visible difference in morphological structure between the two species n Z affinis subaffinis (corrected for ties) P 3 wing 35 31 — 6.298 0.0001 tail 35 31 —1.501 0.1334 bill 33 31 — 2.607 0.0091 2 wing 24 25 — 5.238 0.0001 tail 24 25 —3.351 0.0008 bill 24 24 23315 0.0175 P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 116 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) subaffinis affinis subaffinis male female female Figure 2. Box plots comparing wing-lengths between P. affinis and P. subaffinis. Males are shown to have significantly longer wings than their respective females. The necessity for sexing a sample is clearly shown if one compares male subaffinis with female affinis: in an unsexed sample there would appear to be a massive overlap. However, comparing each sex separately, affinis is clearly a longer-winged bird. subaffinis subaffinis male female Figure 3. Box plots comparing tail-lengths between P. affinis and P. subaffinis. There is a great deal of overlap between the values. Although the differences are not significant between males, females of subaffinis have longer tails than female affinis. specimens a slight overlap is apparent. The legs are on average somewhat paler in P. affinis, but can be identical in the two species. Vocalizations The song of P. affinis is a short, quick series of soft notes, almost invariably preceded by a call note: chep-chi-chi-chi-chi-chi. The speed P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 117 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) subaffinis affinis subaffinis male female female Figure 4. Box plots comparing bill-lengths between P. affinis and P. subaffinis. here appears to be no difference between the sexes. The apparent difference between the two species is significant only between males, when the sexes are compared separately. subaffinis affinis subaffinis male female female Figure 5. Box plot comparing wing/tail ratios between P. affinis and P. subaffinis. The longer-winged affinis has a significantly higher value than subaffinis, as the tails are of much th in the two species or even slightly longer in the latter. varies to some extent, but is typically rather rapid; often the song has an almost explosive character. The number of chi-notes is also somewhat variable, normally 5—6, sometimes 8—10 (when fast) (Fig. 6a). The song of P. subaffinis is clearly distinguishable from that of P. affinis. It is distinctly slower and weaker, and the voice is softer. More- over, it does not begin with the chep, although sometimes with a short, subdued trr or trr-trr. A commonly heard phrase could be transcribed as tuee-tuee-tuee-tuee-tuee (Fig. 6b). P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 119 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) The call of P. affinis is a rather hard and sharp chep or ch(rjep (Fig. 6c), somewhat reminiscent of one of the calls of a House Sparrow Passer domesticus. The call of P. subaffinis, a soft, rather weak, trriip or trrip (Fig. 6d), is easily separable from that of P. affinis, and resembles the House Cricket Acheta domestica. For both song and calls, the differences are consistent. No individuals with any kind of intermediate vocalizations have been heard out of the 100+ of each species that have been observed. Furthermore, in all indi- viduals that have been studied, attention was paid to vocalizations in relation to morphological characters. Not a single individual was observed in which the song and call were not positively correlated to the morphological differences described above. Playback experiments Two P. affinis and four P. subaffinis were exposed to playback song; of these, one P. affinis and three P. subaffinis were exposed to the complete test situation, with both songs repeated, and the remaining one of each species to the shorter version (see Appendix 1). With one exception, none of the individuals tested showed any interest in the other species’ song. The exception was P. affinis individual no. 2 Wolong 900622, which dived towards the speaker when the first song strophe of the other species was heard, but then removed itself from the test area. We interpret this as an over-reaction following the strong stimulus of its own species’ song being played for two minutes immediately before. This material is too small to be tested statistically, but in view of the observed sympatry between the two species, it is strongly indicative. Differences in behaviour When searching for a presumed competitor the two species showed distinctly different behaviour. Phylloscopus affinis appeared to have a slightly higher tendency not to stay as close to the speaker. It more often flew over it, for rather long distances between nearby bushes, perhaps 1 or 2 m above the speaker, removing itself up to 10 m from the speaker before flying over it again. The time spent in the immediate vicinity of the speaker was thus somewhat less than for P. subaffinis, which approached the speaker with the wings lowered, quivering continuously. This latter behaviour was not seen in P. affinis. The birds then stayed mainly within 3 m of the speaker. Figure 6. Sonagrams illustrating the differences in vocalizations between P. affinis and P. subaffinis. Made by Richard Ranft, British Library of Wildlife Sounds. Band width 369 Hz. Horizontal scale gives time in seconds, vertical scale gives kHz 0-8. a P. affinis typical song. Recording by Per Alstrom, Qamdo, Tibet, early May 1987 (BLOWS no. 26125). b P. subaffinis typical song. Recording by Per Alstrom, Emei Shan, Sichuan Province, China, mid-May 1987 (BLOWS no. 26127). c P. affinis typical call. Recording by Per Alstrom, Qamdo, Tibet, early May 1987 (BLOWS no. 26126). d P. subaffinis typical call. Recording by Per Alstrom, Wolong, Sichuan Province, China, May 1989 (BLOWS no. 26128). P. Alstroém & U. Olsson 120 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Discussion Habitat Phylloscopus affinis usually breeds in open bushy areas at the upper tree-limit and in alpine scrub. It has been reported to breed between 3000 and 4880m above sea-level (Schafer 1938, Inskipp & Inskipp 1985, Meyer de Schauensee 1984). Ali & Ripley (1983) state that it breeds above 2700 m in Nepal. Phylloscopus subaffinis breeds in scrub and at forest edge at high eleva- tion, although normally lower than P. affinis. According to Etchécopar & Hue (1978) it breeds between 3000 and 4000 m. Meyer de Schauensee, on the other hand, gives 915—3660 m, which is more in accordance with our own observations (c. 1900-3500 m). ‘The two species are mostly allopatric, but their distributions overlap in a large area in China, mainly along the edge of the Tibetan plateau. In the study area in Wolong, an area of sympatry, we found no differences in habitat preferences where they occurred together. Phylloscopus subaffinis, however, was distributed between altitudes of approximately 1900 and 3500 m, whereas Phylloscopus affinis was not seen below 3400 m during the breeding season. Morphology Wilhamson (1967) and Watson, in Mayr & Cottrell (1986), treat P. subaffinis as a subspecies of P. affinis because they claim to have seen specimens showing intermediate colouration on the upper- and under- parts. ‘They interpret this as morphological intergradation due to hybridization. Williamson lists specimens intermediate in this respect, taken mainly outside the breeding season in central China, Manipur and upper Burma. P.A. has examined 15 of the 17 specimens Williamson specifically refers to (see Appendix 2). These are all clearly either P. affinis or P. subaffinis and none appears to be intermediate (see Appendix 2). However, eight of these specimens were originally mis- labelled. Eleven specimens from Gyi-Dzin-Shan are said to be “brown above, as in subaffinis, but while seven are characteristically deep buff beneath, four have some yellow admixture and in this respect recall affinis’. P.A. has managed to find 10 of these specimens. Seven of them are clearly subaffinis, while the other three are affinis, which accounts for the difference in colour of underparts noted by Williamson (1967). Williamson further refers to three specimens from the Likiang and Talifu valleys, which are “‘brown enough above for subaffinis, but only two are deep buff beneath, one being much yellower’’. ‘Two of these are indeed subaffinis, whereas one is clearly affinis, explaining the difference in under- parts colour. A male from Kansu province 11 May and a female from Mekong valley, Yunnan province, 27 August are said to be “‘like subaffinis below but too greenish above’’. To P.A. these two specimens look like affinis in the colouration of the underparts, as well as in all other respects. P. subaffinis arcanus was described by Ripley (1950), based on three specimens from Nepal in the non-breeding season. This form was recog- nized by Vaurie (1954), who wrote that “‘arcanus 1s a separable form, but its validity and status require further study’’. Williamson (1967) thought that the description of arcanus suggested an intergrade between affinis and P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 121 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) subaffinis. Watson (1986), who examined the type of arcanus, agreed with Williamson that arcanus is intermediate and used this as an argument for treating affinis and subaffinis as conspecific. However, it appears that arcanus is in fact synonymous with Cettia f. flavolivacea (Alstrom, in prep.). Since no single morphological feature appears to be diagnostic for distinguishing between the two species, one must consider a combination of morphological characters, such as colouration of underparts and super- cilium, face pattern, bill pattern and structure. Taking all these characters into account, all individuals examined by us have fallen into two distinct groups. Indeterminable specimens are probably extremely rare, if they exist at all. As a rule, morphological differences between closely related species of Phylloscopi are slight, and the differences between P. affinis and P. subaffinis are not less than between, for example, Willow Warbier P. trochilus and Chiftchaff P. collybita (with the exception of the wing formula). To conclude, we cannot find any evidence of hybridization between P. affinis and P. subaffinis. On the contrary, the morphological data support the view that the two forms are stable, even in the area of sympatry. Playback experiments In our opinion vocal characteristics are as a rule more important in the genus Phylloscopus than are morphological features, in determining whether or not two forms belong to the same species. The consistent differences in vocalizations between the two species in this study are in themselves a strong indication against conspecificity and we regard it as highly unlikely that two morphologically different forms occurring sympatrically would show such consistent vocal differences if they were conspecific. The question is, of course, where the birds themselves draw the line. In assessing the taxonomic status between two debated forms, we con- sider playback experiments to be one of the most powerful tools. An individual defending a territory can be expected to locate and attack all intruding singing competitors. In a large number of passerines, song constitutes the primary signal mechanism in species-recognition, when announcing a territory. Visual signals usually come in at a later stage, when an intruder is already present and located. In assuming the hypothesis that a male of species A would respond to the song of any other male of the same species entering its territory, one can test if the song of another individual is considered to belong to a competitor. As has been shown by others, interspecific competition may cause individuals of vari- ous species to respond to the song of members of other species or even families (e.g. Catchpole 1986, Reed 1982). Falls & Szijj (1959) found that two closely related species of meadow-larks Sturnella responded to each other’s song, but only when they occupied adjacent territories. A similar study by Goldman (1973) of the reactions by Field Sparrows Spizella pusilla to the song of the Chipping Sparrow S. passerina revealed that the only individual that responded was one in a territory bordered by several Chipping Sparrow territories. Thus a positive response is in itself of little or no taxonomic value. P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 122 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) An individual that does not respond to a certain song, however, is likely not to consider the other singer a competitor. However, there may be various reasons for this not being valid evidence in taxonomy. (1) If the territory-defending individual is at a stage in the breeding cycle where competition is less detrimental to its own breeding suc- cess, it may not respond to a song that would have evoked such a response at a different stage in the breeding cycle. At some stages and, of course, outside the breeding season, most individuals will not be bothered by other individuals singing in the vicinity. (2) The singing individual may not yet have established a firm territory. The played- back song may then be interpreted as coming from the ‘proper’ terri- tory holder and the singer might retreat without a fight. (3) If the song that is played was recorded near the territory of the tested bird, the territory-holding individual may recognize the song and react less persistently than to a song from a strange individual that it does not recognize (Weeden & Falls 1959). (4) In a single test of one indi- vidual, the location of the speaker in the territory may be important. ‘The bird might defend peripheral parts of the territory less vigorously (Ickes & Ficken 1970). (5) Visual signals may be more important in announcing territory ownership. (6) Certain visual signals may be needed in combination with the song, in order to evoke the proper response. To avoid the above-mentioned pitfalls the individuals tested were always exposed to their own species’ song. The vigorous response dis- played by the birds tested shows that they were in fact alert for intruders. Judging from the absence of response to the song of the opposite species, they do not seem to consider each other competitors. On at least two occasions both species have been attracted to the speaker at the same time. Each male reacted to its own species’ song, and was able to see the other male. Despite this, no signs were observed of aggressive behaviour between them. All these facts, in combination, strongly indicate that P. affinis and P. subaffinis should be treated as separate species. Summary The taxonomic status of the two closely related species, Phylloscopus affinis and P. subaffinis, has been studied. These species have variously been treated as conspecific and as separate species. Studies of museum material show that, of the three morphological traits measured, there is a significant difference between the two species in wing-length, affinis having the longer wing. The tail-length is on average longer in subaffinis, which in combination with the wing-length produces an even more marked difference in proportions. No single plumage or bare-part feature is diagnostic, but the vast majority of specimens can be correctly classified into one of the two species by a combination of characters. There are consistent differences in both song and calls between the two species. No individuals with songs or calls in conflict with morphological features have been observed. In Wolong, an area of sympatry, the two species occur side by side, apparently without paying much attention to each other. Play- back experiments indicate that the two species do not regard each other as competitors. All the individuals tested searched vigorously for the source of their own species’ song, but in no case reacted significantly to the other species’ song. During the search for the source of the song, they also behaved differently. Phylloscopus subaffinis moved about in the vegetation fairly close to the speaker, drooping and quivering its wings, while P. affinis was never seen to lower or quiver its wings. The two species have somewhat different habitat preferences, overlapping mainly in the region near the tree-limit. Phylloscopus subaffinis has its distri- bution mainly below the tree-limit, and P. affinis mainly at the highest forested levels and in the alpine zone above. P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 123 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Acknowledgements We are most grateful to professors Cheng Tso-hsin and Tan Yao-kuang at the Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Beijing, who provided invaluable assistance. The sonagrams were prepared by Richard Ranft at the British Library of Wildlife Sounds. Peter R. Colston at the British Museum (Natural History), Tring, examined specimens and helped in locating references. Philip Angle of the U.S. National Museum of Natural History, Washington, kindly made specimens available. We are also grateful to the staff of the American Museum of Natural History, New York, and Mary Le Croy in particular, for their kind assistance. Raimo Neergaard and Matti Ahlund provided valuable assistance in the preparation of this manuscript. Ben King and Per Sundberg made many valuable suggestions for improvements. References Ali, S. & Ripley, S. D. 1983. Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan. Compact edn. Oxford Univ. Press. Catchpole, C. K. 1973. The functions of advertising song in the Sedge Warbler (Acrocephalus schoenobaenus) and the Reed Warbler (A. scirpaceus). Behaviour 46: 300— 320. Catchpole, C. K. 1977. Aggressive responses of male Sedge Warblers (Acrocephalus schoenobaenus) to playback of species song and sympatric species song before and after pairing. Anim. Behav. 25: 489-496. Catchpole, C. K. 1978. Interspecific territorialism and competition in Acrocephalus warblers as revealed by playback experiments in areas of sympatry and allopatry. Anim. Behav. 26: 1072-1080. Catchpole, C. K. 1986. Interspecific territorialism in Reed Warblers: a local effect revealed by playback experiments. Anim. Behav. 34: 299-300. Cheng, Tso-Hsin 1987. A Synopszis of the Avifauna of China. Science Press, Beijing & Paul Parey, Hamburg and Berlin. David, A. & Oustalet, E. 1877. Oiseaux de Chine. Libraire de |!’ Academie de Médecine, Paris. Etchécopar, R. D. & Hie, F. 1983. Les Oiseaux de Chine: Passereaux. Editions Boubée, Paris. Falls, J. B. & Szijj, L. J. 1959. Reactions of Eastern and Western Meadowlarks in Ontario to each other’s vocalizations. Anat. Rec. 134: 560. Goldman, P. 1973. Song recognition by Field Sparrows. Auk 90: 106-113. Ickes, R. A. & Ficken, M.S. 1970. An investigation of territorial behavior in the American Redstart utilising recorded songs. Wilson Bull. 82: 167-176. Inskipp, C. & Inskipp, T. 1985. A Guide to the Birds of Nepal. Christopher Helm, London. Mayr, E. & Cottrell, G. W. (eds) 1986. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 11. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1984. The Birds of China. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington. Ogilvie-Grant, W. R. 1900. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 10: 37. Reed, T. M. 1982. Interspecific territoriality in the Chaffinch and Great Tit on islands and the mainland of Scotland: playback and removal experiments. Anim. Behav. 30: 171-181. Ripley, S. D. 1950. New birds from Nepal and the Indian region. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 63: 101-108. Schafer, E. 1938. Ornithologische Ergebnisse zweier Forschungsreisen nach Tibet. ¥. Orn. 86, Sonderheft. Ticehurst, C. B. 1938. A Systematic Review of the Genus Phylloscopus. Trustees of the British Museum, London. Tickell, S. R. 1833. List of Birds, collected in the Jungles of Borabhum and Dholbhum. 7. As. Soc. Bengal 2: 569-583. Vaurie, C. 1954. Systematic notes on palearctic birds. No.9. Sylviinae: the genus Phylloscopus. Am. Mus. Novit. no. 1685. Vaurie, C. 1959. The Birds of the Palearctic Fauna: Passeriformes. H. F. & G. Witherby, London. Weeden, J. S. & Falls, J. B. 1959. Differential responses of male Ovenbirds to recorded songs of neighboring and more distant individuals. Auk 76: 343-351. P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 124 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Williamson, K. 1967. Identification for ringers 2, The genus Phylloscopus. BTO Field Guide no. 8 (revised edition). Addresses: Per Alstrom, Kungsgatan 3, 46233 Vanersborg, Sweden; Urban Olsson, University of Goteborg, Dept. of Zoology, Section of Morphology and Systematics, Box 25059, 400 31 Goteborg, Sweden. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 APPENDIX 1 Playback experiment data Phylloscopus affinis Individual no. 1 Wolong 900620 @ 2miunutes song P. subaffinis. Was seen in the vicinity, when P. subaffinis individual no. 1 was tested (see below). Showed no reaction to the song of P. subaffinis. @ 2 minutes song P. affinis. Approached after a short while and continued to fly back and forth over the speaker as P. subaffinis moved away. Neither individual paid any attention to the other. Individual no. 2 Wolong 900622 @ 3 minutes song P. affinis. First approach after c. 60 seconds immediately diving towards the speaker. (1 minute was added to this test on the assumption that the delayed first approach was because the bird had been too distant at the beginning of the playback). Flew back and forth over the speaker for the remainder of the test. Both song and calls were given occasionally. Did not vibrate wings. @ 2minutes song P. subaffinis. Dived towards the speaker when the first song strophe was heard after a short pause, then moved away. @ 2minutes song P. affinis. First approach after 3 seconds, immediately diving towards the speaker. Then flew back and forth in the vicinity of the speaker. Phylloscopus subaffinis Individual no. 1 Wolong 900620 @ 2 minutes song P. subaffinis. Approached after a short while and stayed close to the speaker. Held head and wings lowered and vibrated the wings. Both songs and calls were given occasionally. @ 2minutes song P. affinis. Moved gradually away from the speaker. At the same time P. affinis approached. Neither individual paid any attention to the other. See P. affinis individual no. 1. Individual no. 2 Emei Shan 900628 e@ 2minutes song P. affinis. No reaction; continued singing in the vicinity. @ 2minutes song P. subaffinis. First approach after 20 seconds. Flew back and forth near the speaker. Held head and wings lowered and vibrated the wings. e@ 2minutes song P. affinis. No reaction. Moved away somewhat from the speaker. Sang in the vicinity. e@ 2 minutes song P. subaffinis. First approach 6 seconds. Flew back and forth near the speaker. Held head and wings lowered and vibrated the wings. Individual no. 3 Emei Shan 900628 @ 2minutes song P. affinis. No reaction. e@ 2 minutes song P. subaffinis. First approach after 10 seconds. Flew back and forth between bushes near the speaker. Held head and wings lowered and vibrated the wings. e 2 minutes song P. affinis. Moved away from the speaker; then began singing in the vicinity. e@ 2minutes song P. subaffinis. First approach after 5 seconds. Flew back and forth between bushes near the speaker. Held head and wings lowered and vibrated the wings. P. Alstrém & U. Olsson 125 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) APPENDIX 1 Continued Playback experiment data Individual no. 4 Emei Shan 900629 @ 2minutes song P. affinis. No reaction. e 2 minutes song P. subaffinis. First approach after 10 seconds. Flew back and forth between bushes near the speaker apparently searching for it. Held head and wings lowered and vibrated the wings. @ 2 minutes song P. affinis. No reaction. Started singing and moving about normally. e@ 2minutes song P. subaffinis. First approach after 5 seconds. Flew back and forth over the speaker between nearby bushes. Vibrated the wings. APPENDIX 2 Specimens in the British Museum (Natural History) specifically referred to by Williamson (1967) as intermediate between P. affinis and P. subaffinis. W =wing-length (maximum length); T= tail-length; W/T = wing/tail ratio; B= bill to skull (mm). BM 1903.8.8.504 P. subaffinis (no species name on label). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 49.5, T 42.0, W/T 1.18, Bd: BM 1903.8.8.508. P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 56.5, T 48.5, W/T 1.17, B 11.6. BM 1903.8.8.509 P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 54.5, T 44.5, W/T 1.23, Bie BM 1903.8.8.510. P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 55.0, T 48.0, W/T 1.15, B 11.9. BM 1903.8.8.511. P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 50.0, T 44.5, W/T 1.12, B 11.4. BM 1903.8.8.512. P. affinis (correctly labelled). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 59.5, T 46.0, W/T 1.29, B 12.1. BM 1903.8.8.513. P. affinis (correctly labelled). Gyi- Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 55.5, T 39.5, W/T 1.41, B 12.5. BM 1903.8.8.514. P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March, 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 55.5, T 46.0, W/T 1.21, B25: BM 1903.8.8.515. P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 56.0, T 49.5, W/T 1.13, B 11.6. BM 1903.8.8.516. P. affinis (correctly labelled). Gyi-Dzin-Shan, Yunnan province, China, March 1902. Collected by G. Rippon. W 53.5, T 39.0, W/T 1.37, B 12.4. BM 1906.12.17.355. P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Lijiang & Talifu Valleys, Yunnan province, China, 14 April 1906. W 54.5, T 46.5, W/T 1.17, B 12.0. BM 1906.12.17.356. P. affinis (correctly labelled). Lijiang & Talifu Valleys, Yunnan province, China, 14 April 1906. W 60.0, T 44.0, W/T 1.36, B 13.5. BM 1906.12.17.357. P. subaffinis (incorrectly labelled P. affinis). Lijiang & Talifu Valleys, Yunnan province, China, 14 April 1906. W 53.5, T 43.5, W/T 1.23, B 11.9. BM 1949. Whi. 1. 12290. P. affinis (correctly labelled). Male, Kansu province, China, 11 May. W 56.0, T 42.0, W/T 1.33, B 11.5. BM 1922.12.7.298. P. affinis (correctly labelled). Female, Mekong valley, NW Yunnan province, China, 27 August. W 55.5, T 42.5, W/T 1.31, B 12.3. C. J. Feare & K. Nee 126 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Allocation of Sturnus melanopterus to Acridotheres by Christopher #. Feare S Kang Nee Received 29 Fuly 1991 Sturnus melanopterus, commonly called the Black-winged Starling (Gruson 1976, Howard & Moore 1980, MacKinnon 1990, Walters 1980), is endemic to the Indonesian islands of Java and Bali, with some additional sightings on Lombok. Amadon (1943) placed melanopterus in Sturnus but its ecology and behaviour are poorly known and its relation- ships to other members of the starling family are unclear. In particular, Sieber (1978) suggested that it may be closely related to the endangered Bali Starling Leucopsar rothschildi‘and as the ranges of the two species now overlap he expressed concern that competition between them might impede the recovery of the Bali Starling. melanopterus has also been linked with the Black-collared Starling S. nigricollis in a genus Gracupica (Amadon 1943). We studied a small introduced population of Sturnus melanopterus on St John’s Island, Singapore, during a visit to that island on 27-29 November 1990. ‘The aim was to gain basic information on its ecology and behaviour in order to throw light on its relationship with other family members. During this visit the island population comprised only seven individuals, six of which were clearly associating in pairs while the seventh bird was seen only once and appeared sick. Hails (1987) reported a population of about 50 birds: the reason for the decline is unclear although many may have been trapped to be sold as cage birds. Habitat and feeding In Java and Bali Sturnus melanopterus inhabits cultivated areas (de Wiljes 1957, Sieber 1978, Ash in /itt.), fruit farms, fallow fields and open grass savannas (van Helvoordt im litt.) and grass lawns (MacKinnon 1990). In Singapore Hails (1987) considered it to be more arboreal than other mynas. On St John’s Island it was recorded feeding in three habitats, in trees, in grassland and on the beach. The birds fed singly, in pairs and on one occasion were seen feeding all together on the grass floor of open woodland. They frequently fed in association with Common Mynas Acridotheres tristis. In the morning and late afternoon they spent much time sitting and preening on a sea wall and one bird was seen to bathe in the sea. At dawn and dusk, they joined assemblies of Common and White-vented Mynas A. javanicus and Purple-backed Starlings Sturnus sturninus. Between about 1100 hand 1600 h the S. melanopterus could not be found and we presumed that they rested in trees out of sight. In trees they ate nectar, fruit and insects. Nectar was taken from the small ‘powder-puff’ flowers of the Madras Thorn Pithecellobtum dulce. Fruits taken were the small orange berries of Fagraea fragrans and larger, cherry-sized dark red fruits of Eugenia longiflora. In addition, one bird ate C. F. Feare S K. Nee 127 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) a green unripe fruit from a flower stem of a Madras Thorn tree. This bird also fed by picking small insects from leaves and by prying into ripe pods of this tree, presumably eating insects although they might have been eating the white pulp which Wee (1989) describes as edible. It found a 5 cm mantid, identified as Parkierodula venosa, in the tree, flew to the ground and dismembered the insect on a mud mound, eating all but the wings. On several occasions birds were seen probing into the bases of terminal rosettes of Casuarina leaves where they presumably ate small insects: in doing this the birds demonstrated some agility, clinging on to very fine twigs and reaching out to the terminal rosettes. In grassland S. melanopterus pecked at items among the vegetation and made dashes at more mobile prey. In open woodland they were also seen probing into soil close to a termite mound. On the beach they pecked at small items on the sand above the water line, and chased insects among Ipomoea at the top of the beach. One bird made dashes at small items left by retreating waves. In the open woodland, one bird drank from a tree hole, clinging woodpecker-fashion to the trunk, supporting itself with its tail. Voice and pair-bonding behaviour The calls of S. melanopterus were loud and varied, and were of the same quality and often very similar to those of Acridotheres tristis and A. javanicus. They included a repeated cha cha cha, each note with a downward inflection, a throaty tok or chok, a harsh kaar kaar, a harsh drawn-out kreeer, a frequently given disyllabic kishaa kishaa and other whistles and squawks. On several occasions a high-pitched whistling tsoowit or tsoowee flight-call was given by birds which had been resting or preening, while a feeding bird was once heard to give a harsh kaar alarm-call on take-off. Feeding bouts were often interrupted by bursts of calling. These often consisted of loud repetitive disyllabic calls very similar to those of A. tristis. They were given by one member of the pair with crest slightly raised and in many cases the mate responded by duetting. Tok calls were often accompanied by bobbing of the head with the short crest erected and the cheek feathers puffed out. During prolonged preening and resting bouts on the sea wall in the morning and evening, members of pairs periodically came together to within about 0.5 m of each other; one individual occasionally bowed its head by pointing the bill down towards the breast and at the same time bobbed its body up and down. Similar behaviour, but more exaggerated, was seen in a pre-roost assembly when two birds sat close to each other in a tree; here, one bird raised its crest and bowed so that the bill touched the breast feathers. On another occasion, one member of a pair sang in a coconut tree, frequently bowing with its crest feathers raised; at each bow the bill was pressed into the breast feathers and the whole body was bobbed. These bowings appeared to elicit little response from the other member of the pair. Immediately prior to roosting at dusk, one pair sat on a branch facing in the same direction and with their bodies touching; they touched bills briefly but did not allopreen, although this behaviour was reported in captive birds (Harrison 1963). C.F. Feare S K. Nee 128 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Discussion S. melanopterus is a heavily built starling, similar in size and shape to A. tristis. Like most species that are ascribed to Acridotheres, but unlike typical Sturnus (e.g. vulgaris, cineraceus), S. melanopterus has yellow legs, a patch of bare orbital skin (in this case yellow), black wings with a prominent white patch and a black tail with white tips to the feathers, particularly pronounced on the outer rectrices. In flight it is round- winged, rather than pointed-winged as in Sturnus, and its flight is more hesitant and butterfly-like, rather than direct. In all of these respects, therefore, melanopterus more closely resembles Acridotheres than Sturnus. Our observations on the behaviour of melanopterus confirm a close affinity to Acridotheres. 'To the inexperienced ear the calls are practically indistinguishable from A. tristis. Association in pairs even when not breeding is typical of A. tristis (Sengupta 1982) and A. javanicus (Kang 1989), and even when larger flocks do occur, pairs are apparent. On St John’s Island melanopterus pairs were less cohesive than Kang (pers. obs.) has found in tristis and Javanicus, but non-breeding Sturnus typically associate in flocks in which pairs are not distinguishable. Pair-bond maintenance displays involving various forms of bowing are character- istic of A. tristis (Sengupta 1982), A. javanicus and A. cristatellus (pers. obs.) but are not used by typical Sturnus (Feare 1984). On morphological and behavioural grounds we conclude that melanopterus should be taken out of Sturnus and assigned to Acridotheres. Its most common English name of Black-winged Starling should be replaced and, since most Acridotheres mynas have black wings, an appropriate name is White-breasted Myna. The taxonomy of Acridotheres is currently confused and needs revision, especially in relation to the specific status of fuscus, javanicus, mahrattensis and grandis. Behavioural studies of other south- east Asian Sturnus may well suggest closer affinities to Acridotheres, and burmannicus, a little-known endemic of Burma and Thailand with outward resemblance to melanopterus, warrants particular study but contra and nigricollis should also be included in such a review. Harrison (1963) reported the latter performing bowing displays. Acknowledgements The observations were made during a visit to Singapore to advise on problems caused by starlings and crows: C.J.F. is grateful to the Central Science Laboratory (MAFF) for this opportunity. Identifications of the mantid and Eugenia were by Prof. D. H. Murphy and Dr Hugh Tan, respectively, and Jeffrey Lee and Paul Sweet assisted with the observations. References: Amadon, D. 1943. The genera of starlings and their relationships. dm. Mus. Novit. no. 1247. Feare, C. 1984. The Starling. Oxford University Press. Gruson, E. S. 1976. Check-list of Birds of the World. Collins. Hails, C. 1987. Birds of Singapore. ‘Times Editions, Singapore. Harrison, C. J. O. 1963. The displays of some starlings (Sturnidae) and their taxonomic value. Ardea 51: 44-52. Howard, R. & Moore, A. 1980. A Complete Check-list of the Birds of the World. Oxford University Press. H. Shirthai & P. R. Colston 129 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Kang, N. 1989. Comparative behavioural ecology of the mynas Acridotheres tristis (Linnaeus) and A. javanicus (Cavanis) in Singapore. Ph.D. thesis, National University of Singapore. MacKinnon, J. 1990. Field Guide to the Birds of Java and Bali. Gadjah Mada University Press. Sengupta, S. 1984. The Common Myna. 8. Chand & Co. Ltd., New Delhi. Sieber, J. 1978. Freiland Beobachtungen und Versuch einer Bestandsaufnahme des Bali-stars Leucopsar rothschildi. ¥. Orn. 119: 102-106. Walters, M. 1980. The Complete Birds of the World. David & Charles, London. Wee, Y. C. 1989. A Guide to the Wayside Trees of Singapore. Singapore Sciences Centre, Singapore. de Wiljes, E. A. 1957. Iets over de Djalak Putih (Sturnus melanopterus) als ‘‘displaced person”’ in Bandung. Penggar Alam 37: 31-36. Addresses: Dr C. J. Feare, Central Science Laboratory (MAFF), Tangley Place, Worplesdon, Surrey GU33LQ, U.K. Dr Kang Nee, Dept. of Zoology, National University of Singapore, Lower Kent Ridge Road, Singapore 0511. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 A new race of the Sand Martin Riparia riparia from Israel by Hadoram Shirthai & Peter R. Colston Received 6 August 1991 The Sand Martin Riparia riparia is the second most common hirundine migrating through Israel after the Swallow Hirundo rustica. It is abundant in spring and also common in autumn throughout the Rift Valley. At Eilat, large numbers have been recorded moving northwards during the spring, with peak days of more than 20,000 birds. The Sand Martin does not breed in Israel but isolated breeding populations are found in the neighbouring countries of Egypt and northern Syria. Between 1984 and 1988, Merav Gellert and H.S. ringed more than 5000 Sand Martins in Eilat during consecutive seasons, chiefly in spring. During this study, many birds which were trapped and examined were assigned to the nominate race, riparia, by virtue of their plumage colouration and larger size (wing length >100mm). Also examined were a few individuals which differed by their smaller size (wing length 92-105 mm), paler upperparts, and more diffuse breast-band. These birds were considered to match the Central Asian race, diluta. In addition to these, other small Sand Martins (wing length 87.5—98.6 mm) which were noticeably darker above were also trapped regulary in spring in quite large numbers (often >10 birds per day). Initially these birds were identified as the race shelleyi (Nile valley, Egypt and northern Sudan) as their measurements were compatible with those given in Vaurie (1959) and Cramp (1988). In order to check the identity of the subspecies to which these birds belong, H.S. brought three specimens to The Natural History Museum, Tring, for comparison with other material collected at A. Shirthai & P. R. Colston 130 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) the same time of year. It soon became apparent that these birds not only differed from shelleyi but were also obviously distinct from all other subspecies or populations found breeding in Asia, Eurasia and the Nearctic, 1.e. nominate riparia, yimae, taczanowsku, tibetana, diluta, fokienensis and indica, listed in Peters (1960), and represented in the skin collections at Tring. They differed in their combination of small size, darker upperparts, darker grey-brown breast-band, and brownish chin with distinct dark brownish speckling on the throat. In view of these obvious differences we propose the name Riparia riparia eilata subsp. nov. Type. Adult male. Eilat, Israel, 10 April 1990. Collected by Hadoram Shirihai. In the collection of ‘The Natural History Museum (formerly British Museum (Natural History)), Tring; Reg. No. 1991.11.1. Description (fresh plumage). Upperparts mainly dark earth-brown, with crown to mantle, upper scapulars, lesser and median coverts more sooty-brown; greater coverts, tertials, rump and upper tail-coverts some- what duller and paler (latter two areas faintly edged greyish); remiges and rectrices blackish-brown; lores and feathering near gape dark grey-brown and paler than crown; forehead near bill base tinged buffish; ear-coverts and cheeks dark grey-brown; chin buffish-brown; throat feathers whitish with rather broad, brown tips (c. 1.0 mm wide), giving the appearance of a brownish throat. Remainder of underparts white with contrasting dark grey-brown breast-band and flanks; underwing-coverts and axillaries dusky grey-brown; bill, legs, and iris black. Measurements (mm). Wing 95; tail 45; bill (from skull) 9; tarsus 10. Comparison with other races. In size, eilata shows a wing (range 87.5— 98.6 mm) comparable with the short-winged races shelleyi (Nile Valley & N. Sudan) and indica (N. India), which have wing ranges of 88—98 mm and 88—99 mm respectively. In fresh adult plumage (spring), ez/ata differs from shelleyi in being distinctly darker earth-brown above (ground colour as nominate riparia or slightly darker, and in tone more like the warmer sooty-brown zimae) rather than light to medium greyish-brown. Both races show rather distinct and sharply defined breast-bands but ezlata differs in having the chin buffish-brown with broad, dense brown spot- ting or mottling on the throat (shelley has these areas mainly whitish), and in this respect ez/ata is markedly different from all other races (freshly plumaged adults of other races only very rarely show any faint pale brown speckling on the tips of the throat feathers). The race indica is noticeably paler above than either ezlata or shelleyi with more greyish suffusion to the upperparts and also shows a broader, more diffuse and paler breast-band. Diluta (central Asia, from lower Ural river to Mongolia) is very similar to indica in its overall colouration (or fractionally darker) with mouse-grey suffusion to the upperparts, and noticeably paler than either ezlata or shelleyi. On measurement it averages larger than ezlata, indica or shelleyt (see Table 1), but is smaller than nominate riparia (W. Palearctic & N. America, wing range 96-120 mm) or gimae (S. E. Siberia & Japan, wing range 96-111 mm); also its breast-band is considerably wider than in eilata and the other races discussed above. H. Shirthai & P. R. Colston 131 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) TABLE 1. Measurements of adults (mm), sexes combined Wing Tail mean, or range mean, or range n range of means n range of means Source riparia >1,000 96-120 102.9-108 52. 45-54 48-351 25 yimae >50 96-111 102-105 12 46-52 50 12 diluta >50 95-108 101-102 13 42-56 49 135 indica 10 88-99 93.4 10 38-43 40.4 1 shelleyi 23. 88-98 9394.6 13 39-47 42.6-42.9 DISS) eilata 105 87.5—98.6 94 20 42-47 44 4 Sources: (1) Nat. Hist. Mus., Tring, (2) BWP 5, (3) Dementiev & Gladkov (1954), (4) ringed in Eilat, (5) Vaurie (1959). Distribution, geographical variation, and remarks. The race eilata is a quite common spring migrant through Eilat, comprising c. 5% of birds on passage between February and June. From c. 2000 Sand Martins that were trapped in spring and examined in detail, 105 individuals showed the diagnositic characters of ezlata. If this sample is unbiased, it indicates that several thousand migrants of this form pass through each spring. Birds showing ezlata characters were ringed between 20 February and 24 April, peaking between 20 March and 6 April. Within this period recognizable waves occurred for a few days, with up to 13 individuals ringed in one morning. The race diluta (comprising c. 20% of the species on spring migration) is recorded in Eilat between mid-March and mid-June, with the bulk arriving between the end of March and the first week of May, and peaking between 5 and 20 April. Nominate riparia (comprising 75% of the species on spring migration) passes through Eilat all spring (February—June), with the bulk occurring between the second week of April and the fourth week of May, and peaking between 23 April and 23 May. Birds showing eilata features which were ringed in Eilat showed normal migratory behaviour, i.e. migrating northwards through the Arava valley with large mixed flocks of nominate riparia and diluta. The fact that individuals of ezlata have a shorter wing length, and that their peak migration is earlier than nominate riparia and somewhat earlier than diluta, suggests the possibility of a southern breeding population perhaps from an isolated breeding area east of Israel, possibly in Syria or Iraq where some isolated populations are known to occur. However, we know of no museum material from these regions during the breeding season. ‘The migration of the Sand Martin through Eilat is more protracted in autumn and has been less intensively studied, but the few ringed birds that have been examined confirm that nominate riparia is the dominant subspecies passing through the area, while diluta is scarce. Smaller numbers probably of ezlata have been trapped in autumn (including young birds), but these have not been as intensively examined as spring birds. In Brief 132 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) Geographical variation in the Sand Martin is predominately clinal (Vaurie 1959, Cramp 1988), with size becoming smaller and depth of ground colour paler towards the south, resulting in gradation and inter- mediate populations over a wide area between the northern, largest and darkest forms (nominate riparia and yimae, occupying a wide zone in the Palearctic and Nearctic) and the southern, smallest and palest forms (diluta, indica and shelleyi, breeding in southern Asia and Egypt). Within this general pattern ez/ata stands out as the smallest and darkest form. Acknowledgements H.5S. wishes to thank John and Carol Dowling for their hospitality and help in translation of an earlier draft during his studies at Tring. We also thank Duncan Brooks, John Dowling, Alan Harris, C. J. O. Harrison, C. S. Roselaar, and D. W. Snow, who confirmed our findings and made helpful comments; and finally the International Bird Watching Centre in Eilat for their help and support in the ringing studies over the years. References: Cramp S. 1988. The Birds of the Western Palearctic. Vol. 5. Oxford Univ. Press. Dementiev, G. P. & Gladkov, N. A. 1966. Birds of the Soviet Union. Vol. 6. Israel Program for Scientific Translations, Jerusalem. Peters, J. L. 1960. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 9. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Vaurie, C. 1959. The Birds of the Palearctic Fauna. Passeriformes. H. F. & G. Witherby, London. Addresses: Hadoram Shirihai, P. O. Box 4168, Eilat 8102, Israel. Peter R. Colston, Bird Group, Department of Zoology, The Natural History Museum, Akeman St., Tring, Herts, HP23 6AP, UK. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 IN BRIEF ON THE PRESENCE OF THE BLUE-FOOTED BOOBY SULA NEBOUXII ALONG THE SOUTH COAST OF PERU The Blue-footed Booby Sula nebouxii has a restricted range along the Pacific coast of tropical America, between Mexico and northern Peru, with an outlying population on the Galapagos Islands. It favours semi- arid regions for breeding and is consequently largely absent from the very humid bight between northern Ecuador and Panama, including the whole of Pacific Colombia (Murphy 1936, Oceanic Birds of South America). Some of the largest known breeding colonies lie off northern Peru, notably at the Lobos Islands off dep. Lambayeque (6°—7°S), but regular breeding occurs as far south as the Guanape Islands (8°30'S) off dep. La Libertad. In this region, at the northern end of the cool upwelling zone of the Peru (Humboldt) Current, it usually outnumbers the Peruvian Booby Sula variegata, a characteristic species of the upwelling zone, which becomes dominant south of 8°S. Following many years of observations along the south coast of Peru, I have accumulated numerous records of nebouxti, which indicate a regular annual post-breeding dispersal of juveniles far to the south of the normal breeding range. At Mollendo, dep. Arequipa (17°S), the birds usually In Brief 133 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) appear in late May or June, often mixed in flocks of the superabundant variegata, and are subsequently present until the following September or October. Numbers vary greatly from year to year, with sometimes no more than scattered singletons in a whole season, whereas in other years they may be seen in monospecific flocks of more than a dozen together. Exceptionally high counts were of 200+ in an hour off Mollendo, 28 June 1977, and 400-500 on and around islets at Morro Sama, dep. Tacna (18°S), 29 July 1984, almost within sight of the Peru—Chile border. This annual post- -breeding dispersal of juveniles bears no apparent relation to the prevailing oceanic conditions and is a regular event involving varying numbers of birds. In some years, when the coast is affected by the warm and nutrient- poor waters of El Nino, there is an influx of nebouxii, adults as well as immatures, into south Peruvian waters and in such anomalous years, such as 1983, the birds may be seen any time between January and May. During intense incursions of El Nivio sporadic breeding has been reported from islands off central Peru, such as the Chinchas off dep. Ica (13°40’S) (Koepcke & Koepcke 1963, Las Aves de Importancia Economica del Peri), but not, insofar as is known, from farther south. The presence of Sula nebouxi along the south coast of Peru would therefore appear to depend on two quite different circumstances: an annual post-breeding dispersal of juveniles irrespective of prevailing oceanic conditions, and occasional influxes of adults and immatures when the influences of El Nivo are especially strong. Casilla 62, R. A. HUGHES Mollendo, Peru. 11 August 1991 We heard with regret that Mr Hughes died shortly after submitting this note—ED. COURTSHIP FEEDING IN THE ORANGE-BREASTED FRUIT-EATER PIPREOLA JUCUNDA The Andes of southern Colombia and Ecuador are the home of the Orange-breasted Fruit-eater Pipreola jucunda. Like other members of its genus, these birds are largely frugivorous, regularly taking a variety of fruits and occasionally feeding on insects. Little is known about the breeding of these montane forest cotingas, except that they generally live in pairs and both sexes attend the nest (Snow 1982, The Cotingas). Here I report what appears to be the only published account of courtship and breeding of P. jucunda in the wild. On 31 July 1988, while watching a fruiting Miconia tree in subtropical montane forest at the La Planada reserve in southwestern Colombia, I noticed a female fruit-eater perching on a branch under the canopy of the tree. A few minutes later a male flew in and alighted on the same branch. In Brief 134 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) In his bill he held a large lauraceous fruit, which he offered to the female. After she had swallowed it, I witnessed a copulation that lasted a few seconds, after which the male flew away. Shortly after, the female started feeding on the Miconza fruits. The following day I returned to the same fruiting tree. Soon a female, apparently the same individual, came in and perched on the same branch I had been watching the previous day. After about 20 minutes the male arrived, offered another fruit of the same kind as before to the female, then copulated with her. This time the female flew away first, to a tree about 10 m away, and disappeared among the mass of epiphytes growing over the trunk. Later that morning I saw the two birds fly to exactly the same place, 5 m above the ground on a large trunk thickly covered with epiphytes. The female was carrying moss, evidently to a nest, but I was unable to examine it closely because of the masses of epiphytes on the trunk. As far as I know, this is the first definite report of courtship feeding of any of the cotingas in the wild. In captivity, Everitt (1963, Avic. Mag. 69: 141-144) and Lint & Dolan (1966, Avic. Mag. 72: 18-20) observed male fruit-eaters (P. riefferit and P. jucunda) feeding incubating females, and also (P. jucunda) before the eggs were laid. Skutch (1989, Jbzs 131: 303-304) reported what was apparently courtship feeding in the Rufous Piha Lipaugus unirufus, but did not observe copulation. Snow (loc. cit) has evidence that courtship feeding perhaps occurs in the genus Carpornis, which is probably quite closely related to Pipreola. I am grateful to Alexander F. Skutch, Barbara Snow and David W. Snow for encouraging me to write this note and for helpful comments on an earlier draft. Reserva Natural La Planada, CRISTIAN SAMPER K. Apartado 1562, Pasto, Narino, Colombia. 30 September 1991 A RECORD OF GREAT KNOT CALIDRIS TENUIROSTRIS FROM MAURITIUS, INDIAN OCEAN The largest concentration of waders on the Mascarene Islands, western Indian Ocean, occurs at Terre Rouge estuary, Mauritius (20°08’'S, 57°30'E), a small (0.5 km’), polluted, tidal mudflat close to Port Louis, the capital city. African Waterfowl Census counts at Terre Rouge in 1991-1992 revealed up to 1201 waterbirds of which about 80% were Curlew Sandpipers Calidris ferruginea (Perennou 1991; pers. obs.). On 28 December 1990 I found a single Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris in a mixed flock of waders on the southern shore of Terre Rouge estuary. I watched it for one hour at ranges down to 20 m through a 25X telescope, In Brief 135 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) and also photographed it. It was not seen on subsequent visits in January to March 1991. Diagnostic features noted were as follows. Structurally it appeared to be a giant Calidris, but only one bird present was close in size: a Grey- tailed Tattler Heteroscelus brevipes, which had also been present in the 1989-1990 non-breeding season (details of the latter well-watched and photographed bird, found by P. A. R. Hockey, have not been published, although it is also new to the Mascarene Islands). The Great Knot was noted as similar sized but bulkier bodied, with a thick-based, tapering bill. Black breast spots over otherwise white underparts merged upwards into streaks, quite sharply cut off below next to the carpal joint but witha few dark flecks below this or continuing along the flanks. The crown was heavily streaked blackish. The mantle and scapulars were faded (lower scapulars warmer-coloured and almost pointed with wear), but still looked very dark and contrasted with the paler brown, more faded or washed-out wing coverts and tertials. J. H. Marchant examined my photographs and description and agrees with the identification, commenting that the brownish tones to the plumage, worn scapulars and contrast on the wing indicate that the bird was in first non-breeding (‘first winter’) plumage. Great Knots breed in northeastern Siberia and most spend the non- breeding season in Australia. The nearest known concentrations to Mauritius occur in Pakistan and the Arabian peninsula (Hayman et al. 1986, Perennou et al. 1990), but recent records in Morocco and north- western Europe (Anon. 1991) confirm the tendency to long-range vagrancy. The only previous records for the Afrotropical and Malagasy faunal regions have come from Seychelles but details have never been published (Marchant 1986, Turner & Dowsett 1988). References: Anon. 1991. British Ornithologists’ Union Records Committee: fifteenth report (April 1991). Ibis 133: 438-441. Hayman, P., Marchant, J. & Prater, T. 1986. Shorebirds : an identification guide to the waders of the world. Croom Helm, London. Marchant, J. H. 1986. Identification, status and habits of Great Knot. Brit. Birds 79: 123-135. Perennou, C. 1991. African waterfowl census 1991—Les dénombrements internationaux d oiseaux d’Eau en Afrique 1991. 1WRB, Slimbridge, U.K. Perennou, C., Rose, P. & Poole, C. 1990. Asian waterfowl 1990. IWRB, Slimbridge, U.K. Turner, D. A. & Dowsett, R. J. 1988. Additions and corrections to Afrotropical and Malagasy avifaunas. 1. Western Indian Ocean Islands. Tauraco 1: 130-138. Forestry Quarters, ROGER J. SAFFORD ‘Tamarin, Mauritius, Indian Ocean 16 December 1991 Books Received 136 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(2) BOOKS RECEIVED Johnsgard, P. A. 1991. Bustards, Hemipodes, and Sandgrouse: birds of dry places. pp. xi+276, 51 coloured plates, 53 text- heures, 39 maps. Oxford University Press. ISBN 0 19 857698 6. £60.00. 28 x 22 cm. An excellent, comprehensive and fully illustrated account of three bird families which are systematically far apart—though all of uncertain and much debated affinities—but ecologi- cally related by all being characteristic and important elements of the avifaunas of arid parts of the Old World. The introductory chapters, occupying 64 pages, discuss their taxonomic history and phyletic relationships, zoogeography and evolutionary trends, behaviour and breeding biology (all very different, with social systems ranging from monogamy to poly- gyny, polyandry and promiscuity), and finally their conservation (the bustards in greatest danger, the other two families relatively unthreatened, in some cases actually favoured by increasing desertification). The greater part of the book consists of the species accounts. The treatment is both readable and scientifically rigorous, and fully referenced; and a good deal of unpublished information is incorporated, with acknowledgement, from other recent workers on these families. An outstanding feature of the book is the collection of colour plates of all the species. All except one are from the huge collection of beautifully detailed water-colours by Major Henry Jones in the possession of the Zoological Society of London. The Lark-quail, the only one not by him, was specially painted by Mark Marcuson. There is a distribution map for every species, and a large number of text-figures mainly illustrating displays and other behaviour, and special features of plumage. Jobling, J. A. 1991. Dictionary of Scientific Bird Names. Pp. xxix + 272. Oxford University Press. ISBN 0 19 854634 3. £19.95. 22 x 14cm. This is the first ornithological dictionary of its kind: it gives the derivations of all the currently valid generic and specific names of birds, with a selection of synonyms. The synonyms included are those that have been given generic or specific status by at least one of the authors listed in the bibliography (11 pages, including most recent regional standard works, but not the magna opera of Hartert and Vaurie for the Palaearctic, nor of Ridgway and Hellmayr for the Americas), or are of historical interest. A total of about 8500 names are listed. A 21-page introduction provides a clear and useful account of the rules of zoological nomenclature, and an analysis of the sources from which scientific names of birds have been drawn. The treatment is scholarly. The more humdrum entries, which inevitably predominate— e.g. manoensis After the Mano district, German East Africa (T’anzania)—are inter- spersed with others that add to the enjoyment of browsing, for example: ‘“Masius Bonaparte (1850), Consp. gen. avium, Vol. 1, p. 175, wrote of the Golden-winged Manakin M. chrysopterus, ‘My genus is dedicated to Aloysius Masi, the very essence of Italy, exiled yet dear, talented, intellectual, energetic, and distinguished! Would that Italy or France could always produce such sons!’ The only candidate for this eulogy (here freely translated from the original Latin) would seem to be the republican Colonel Masi, a supporter of Garibaldi, but no further details are provided.” Attractive drawings by Richard Fowling and the author decorate the text. Recommended to all ornithologists with even a passing interest in scientific names. Bates, R. S. P. & Lowther, E. H. N. 1991. Breeding Birds of Kashmir. Pp. xxiti+ 367, 5 coloured and 80 black-and-white plates. Oxford University Press/OUP India. ISBN 019 5625625. £16.00. 22 x14 cm. A straight reprint (printed in New Delhi) of the valuable work published in 1952 and long out of print. Bates and Lowther provided a mass of new information on the nesting habits of birds in Kashmir, which must have been extended but is unlikely to have been superseded by later observations. Very good value for a modest price. NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS Papers, from Club Members or non-members, should be sent to the Editor, Dr D. W. Snow, The Old Forge, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 4PD, U.K., and must be offered solely to the Bulletin. ‘They should be typed on one side of the paper, with treble-spacing and a wide margin, and submitted in duplicate. The style and lay-out should conform with usage in this or recent issues of the Bulletin. Informants of unpublished observations should be cited by initials and name only, e.g. “‘... of grass (C. Dieter)”’, but ““P. Wee informs me that ...’’. A limited number of photographic illustrations in black-and-white may be published annu- ally at the Editor’s discretion. Authors are requested to give their title, initials, name and full address at the end of the paper. An author wishing to introduce a new name or describe a new form should append nom., gen., sp. or subsp. nov., as appropriate, and set out the sup- porting evidence under the headings “‘Description’’, “‘Distribution’’, ““Type’’, “Measurements of type’’ and “Material examined’’, plus any others needed. A contributor is entitled to 10 free offprints of the pages of the Bulletin in which his contribution, if one page or more in length, appears. Additional offprints or offprints of contributions of less than one page may be ordered when the manuscript is submitted and will be charged for. Authors may be charged for proof corrections for which they are responsible. BACK NUMBERS OF THE BULLETIN Available on application to the Hon. 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Changes of address and any correspondence concerning membership should be addressed to the Hon. Treasurer. SUBSCRIPTION TO THE BULLETIN The Bulletin (Vol. 112 onwards) may be purchased by non-members on pay- ment of the annual subscription (£18 or, if preferred, U.S. $40 for 1992, postage and index free). Applications should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer. Single issues may be obtained as back numbers. PAYMENTS TO HON. TREASURER Payments should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer, S. J. Farnsworth, Hammerkop, Frogmill, Hurley, Maidenhead, Berks SL65NL, U.K.., or credited direct to the Club’s bank account—No. 10211540, Sort Code 2000 87, at Barclays Prime Account, P.O. Box 125, Northampton NN1 1SO, U.K., with confirmation to the Hon. Treasurer. All payments are net and should be in Sterling if possible. Payment in other currencies must include a further £3 for U.K. Bank Charges (except for annual rates in U.S. Dollars which are inclusive). CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence about Club Meetings and on all other matters should go to the Hon. Secretary, Mrs A. M. Moore, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6JB, U.K. CONTENTS Page GLUBNOTICES: Meetings: .20i.0. 5054 00 oa ieee See 65 ORTIZ-CRESPO, F. I. & AGNEW, P. ‘The birds of the La Plata Island, Beuador 05 oo ene his hails 3 a aetve nie ct ee 66 ROBERTSON, C. J. R. & WARHAM, J. Nomenclature of the New Zealand Wandering Albatrosses Diomedea exulans.:..........0..05: 74 MONROE, JR., B. L.& BROWNING, M.R. A re-analysis of Butorides.... 81 BATES, J. M., PARKER III, T. A., CAPPARELLA, A. P. & DAVIS, T.J. Observa- tions on the campo, cerrado and forest avifaunas of eastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia, including 21 species new to the COUMEPY: os oe 56 es RE ey Se teghcn ia We Be 86 DA SILVA, J. M. C. & STOTZ, D. F. Geographic variation in the Sharp- billed Treehunter Heliobletus contaminatus................. 98 CRAIG, A. J. F. K. The identification of Euplectes species in non- breeding plumage aie ae eee wig dies. Go Oe ee 102 RAXWORTHY, C. J. & COLSTON, P. R. Conclusive evidence for the continuing existence of the Madagascar Serpent-eagle Eutrior- CHAS. GSIUT Os Vara ae ee 108 ALSTROM, P. & OLSSON, U. On the taxonomic status of Phylloscopus ajinis and Phylloscopussubaffinis 45>. + 48 poe eee delet FEARE, C. J. & NEE, K. Allocation of Sturnus melanopterus to Acri- GOEMEKES Re SS EB OSE Ok GEE NS A a 126 SHIRIHAI, H. & COLSTON, P.R. Anewrace ofthe Sand Martin Riparia riparia from Israel 6) ee ee ee 129 In Brief HUGHES,R.A. On the presence of the Blue-footed Booby Sula nebouxii along the south coast of Peru........ 132 SAMPER, K.C. Courtship feeding in the Orange-breasted Fruit-eater Pipreolajucunda = 72.42). ee 133 SAFFORD, R. J. A record of Great Knot Calidris tenutros- tris from Mauritius, Indian Ocean ............... 134 Book Receiveds ii 3a 6 ee eS 136 The Bulletin is despatched from the printers on publication and is sent by Surface Saver Postal Services to all European destinations outside the U.K. and by Air Saver Postal Services to destinations outside Europe. Those whose subscriptions have not been received by the beginning of a month of publication will have their copies despatched by surface mail, after their current subscription has been paid. COMMITTEE R. E. F. Peal (Chairman) (1989) D. Griffin (Vice-Chairman) (1990) Dr D. W. Snow (Editor) (1991) S.J. Farnsworth ( Treasurer) (1990) Mrs A. M. Moore (Hon. Secretary) (1989) Revd T. W. Gladwin (1990) Cdr M. B. Casement, OBE, RN (1990) Dr J. F. Monk (1991) Dr R. A. Cheke (1991) UK Data Protection Act. In order to keep records up to date and to facilitate despatch of the Bulletin names and addresses of Members and Subscribers, and no other information, are held on computer disc. If there is any objection to this please advise the Hon. Secretary in writing so that records can be deleted from the disc and stored manually. Published by the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB and printed by Henry Ling Ltd., at the Dorset Press, Dorchester, Dorset JL a ISSN 0007-1595 9B o> eV Bulletin of the British Ornithologists’ Club Edited by Dr D.W. SNOW Volume112 No.3 September 1992 FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Tuesday, 14 July 1992. Dr Storrs L. Olson, Curator in the Division of Birds at the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, since 1975, has an international reputation for his research in avian palaeontology. He will speak on “‘Prehistoric Birdlife of the Hawaiian Islands’’. This meet- ing has been specially arranged to take advantage of a visit to Europe by Dr Olson. We are very fortunate to have the opportunity of hearing him. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 1 Ffuly 1992*. Tuesday, 28 July 1992. Dr Angela Turner, ‘“‘The Hirundines: a most entertaining tribe of Birds’. Dr Turner worked on the hirun- dines for her doctorate and is the author of the text of A Handbook to the Swallows and Martins of the World. She is presently Assistant Editor of Animal Behaviour. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 14 Fuly 1992.* Tuesday, 15 September 1992. Dr W. and Dr U. Thiede, “Japan— Britain of the East?”’. Dr Walter Thiede, who gained his doctorate witha thesis on the distribution and taxonomy of the Redshank, has been a manager in the pharmaceutical industry for 26 years, 5 of which were spent in Japan. He is co-editor of Ornithologische Mitteilungen. Dr Ulrike Thiede is a zoologist and japanologist. She is a lecturer on Japanese affairs at the University of Dusseldorf. Both Dr Walter and Dr Ulrike Thiede have published books and papers on their subjects. Those wishing to attend are asked to notify the Hon. Secretary by Tuesday, 1 September 1992*. The celebration of the Centenary of the Club will be held in London after mid-October. Arrangements for the special dinner to mark the occasion cannot be completed until July and will be published in the September issue of the Bulletin. Members who are likely to attend the dinner must complete the slip enclosed in this issue. Details will be sent to them as soon as they are available. Tuesday, 9 November 1992. Dr A. G. Gosler will speak on “Bill adaptations in the Great Tit—or a mandible for all seasons”. Dr Gosler’s address is based on work he began as a David Lack student in 1982. Since 1987 he has been a University Research Officer at the E.G.I. working mainly on the long-term population study of the Great Tit. Meetings are held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial Coliege, London SW7 at 6.15 pm. for 7 pm. A plan showing Imperial College will be sent to members on request. *Late acceptances and cancellations can usually be taken up to the Thursday morning preceding a meeting, although members are asked to accept by 14 days beforehand as arrangements for meetings have to be confirmed with Imperial College well in advance. If you accept and subsequently find you are unable to attend please notify the Hon. Secretary, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 67B (tel. 0572 722788) as soon as possible as the booking can often be offered to another member. 137 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Bulletin of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB Vol. 112 No. 3 Published: 28 September 1992 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Annual General Meeting of the British Ornithologists’ Club was held at Imperial College, London, SW7 on Tuesday 17 May 1992 at 6p.m. Mr R.E.F. Peal was in the Chair. 19 members were present. Apologies had been received from the Editor, who was overseas. At the invitation of the Committee Mr M. Reid, Auditor of the Accounts to 1991, was also present. The Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 21 May 1991, which had been published (Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 111: 113-114), were approved and signed by the Chairman. The Report of the Committee for 1991 and the Accounts for 1991 were presented. Mr Reid said he had been impressed by the strong balance sheet and he thought the Club has a firm financial base. It was proposed by the Honorary Secretary, seconded by the Honorary Treasurer that the Report and Accounts should be adopted. This motion was carried unanimously. There being no additional nominations, the following were declared duly elected: Honorary Treasurer: Mr S.J. Farnsworth (re-elected) Honorary Secretary: Mrs A.M. Moore (re-elected) The following resolutions, proposed by the Committee, were moved by the Vice-chairman and seconded by Cdr M.B. Casement, and passed unanimously: That Richard Charles Price and Nigel John Crocker be appointed new Trustees of the Trust deed dated 24 September 1985 (‘‘the 1985 Trust Deed’’) to fill the vacancies caused by the retirement of John Gordon Parker and David Reginald Calder; And that approval be given by the Club to the alterations of the trust’s powers and provisions contained in the 1985 Trust Deed contained in the document submitted to this meeting, which has been published in the Bulletin (Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 112: 3-5), with the following amendments made to the published text:- Vol. 112, page 4. Delete lines 1—6 and substitute: Whereas (A) The freehold property known as ‘Clovelly’, 4 Beaconsfield Road, Tring, Hertfordshire (‘‘the property’’) was vested in the Original Trustees under the trusts contained in the Trust Deed and it is intended that the proceeds of sale of the property shall form a fund which shall be known as “The Herbert Stevens Fund” which fund shall be held under the trusts of the Trust Deed as varied by this deed. Meetings 138 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Vol. 112, page 4, line 38 delete ‘“‘approves”’ and substitute “from time to time shall in advance approve’. No other business had been notified in accordance with Rule 12. The meeting closed at 6.12 p.m. The eight hundred and eighteenth meeting of the Club was held in the Ante-room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London, on Tuesday, 19 May 1992 at 6.15 p.m. 27 Members and 14 guests attended. Members attending were: R.E.F. PEAL (Chairman), M.A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, Cdr M.K. Barritt, RN, P.J. BELMan, Mrs D.M. Brap.tey, D.R. CALDER, Cdr M.B. CASEMENT, RN Retd, Dr R.A. CHEKE, P.J. CoNpER, S.J. FARNSWorTH, Rev. T.W. GLapwin, D. GRIFFIN, C.A.R. Hetm, Ms R-M. Jones, R.H. Kettryie, Dr J.F. Monx, A.G. Moore, Mrs A.M. Moore, R.G. Morcan, Mrs M.N. Mutter, R.C. Price, Dr R. Prys-JONEs, Dr R. SELF, P.J. SELLAR, N.H.F. Stone, Dr D.H. THomas. Guests attending were: Dr M. LouetTE (Speaker), Mrs B. Apcock, Professor R. CHANDLER, Mrs F. FARNSworTH, Ms K. Horr, Dr M. Germain, Mme C. GERMAIN, Mrs J.M. GLapwin, P.J. Moore, C.A. MuLLER, Mrs E. Peat, Mrs H. Price, R. Ranrt, D. REID. After supper the Chairman expressed the gratitude of the Club to David Calder and John Parker, the two retiring Trustees of the Stevens Bequest Fund. Then, as in the past two years, the Chairman gave his annual address which is published below. Dr Michel Louette then spoke on ““The Birds of the Comoro Islands’’. The four volcanic islands of the Comoros (which the speaker has visited five times since 1981) are situated 300 km from Madagascar and the same distance from the Mozambique coast. They hold about 60 breeding species and 40 species of migrants and vagrants. There are 13 endemic species (including an endemic genus, Humblotia), probably the result of successive waves, the oldest one not from Madagascar. The archipelago also has endemic races of 23 other species, all shared with Madagascar; this group being the result of a wave of later arrivals, possibly favoured by stepping stones or general wind direction. The speciation process in the genera Hypsipetes, Nesillas and Foudia was discussed, and an overview was given of avifaunal composition, colonisation history, and possible threats; actions necessary for conversation were stressed. Competition by introduced species does not seem to be a problem yet, but hunting (especially for pigeons) is. Habitat loss (over- exploitation of the forest) will soon become a serious problem for the stenotopic forest birds, although analysis of habitat preference suggests some flexibility between different types of forest, but demonstrates the need for large trees. Some native birds are rare, and altitudinal stenotopy makes them vulnerable, e.g. the Karthala white-eye in the tree-heath on Mount Karthala, above 1750 m. Migrant birds include a few land birds on the Madagascar-Africa route and especially waders from the Palaearctic, and also the Crabplover in some numbers. Being situated in warm nutrient-poor waters, the Comoros have only few marine birds, except for some terns on migration; there are some tropicbirds nesting but frigatebirds occur only as nonbreeding individuals; a few sulids may breed regularly. The eight hundred and nineteenth meeting of the Club was held on Tuesday, 9 June 1992 at 6.15 p.m. in the same place. 24 Members and 12 guests attended. Members attending were: D. GRIFFIN (in the Chair) B.S. MEapows (Speaker), M.A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, P.J. BELMAN, Mrs D. BraDLEY, Cdr M.B. CASEMENT, RN Retd, S.J. FaRNsworTH, A. Grisss, Rev. T.W. GLapwin, C.A.R. HELM, M.C. JENNINGs, R.H. KETTLE, Rev. G.K. McCuttocu, Dr C.F. Mann, D.J. Montier, A.G. Moore, Mrs A.M. Moore, R.G. Morcan, Mrs M. Mutter, Dr R. Prys-Jones, Dr R. SELF, P.J. SELLAR, Mrs E.F. Warr. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Mrs B. Gisss, Mrs J. GLADWIN, Mrs S. GRIFFIN, K. Hersrer, Ms K. Horr, P.J. Moores, B. O’Brien, R. Ranrt. Mrs 1. McCuttocu, Mrs M. Montier, A.J. WARR. After supper Mr Brian Meadows spoke on the birds of Central Hejaz, Western Arabia. He gave an interesting account, which was well illustrated, of the different habitats of that region, about which he has a wide and detailed knowledge. The Chairman’s Address 139 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) The eight hundred and twentieth meeting of the Club was held in the Senior Common Room, Sherfield Building, Imperial College, London, on Tuesday, 14 July 1992 at 6.15 p.m. 32 Members and 15 guests attended. Members attending were: Mr R.E.F. PEAL (Chairman), Dr S.L. OLSON (Speaker), M.A. Apcock, Miss H. Baker, P.J. BELMaN, Mrs D. BraDLey, D.R. CaLper, P.J. CONDER, G.S. Cow es, Dr C.T. FisHeEr, S.J. FARNSWORTH, Rev. T.W. GLADWIN, D. GRIFFIN, A. GIBBS, Mrs S.J. FaRNSworTH, Rev. T.W. GLapwin, D. Grirrin, A. Gress, Mrs B.P. Hatt, Ms R-M. Jones, Dr A. KNox, Rev. G.K. McCuttocu, Dr C.F. Mann, Dr J.F. Monk, A.G. Moore, Mrs A.M. Moore, R.G. Morean, Dr D.T. Parkin, Dr R. SELF, R.E. Scott, Dr D.W. Snow, S.A.H. StatHaM, N.H.F. Stone, M.P. Watters, Mrs F.E. Warr, Dr D.R. WELLs. Guests attending were: Mrs B. Apcock, Mrs G. Bonuam, Mrs J. CaLprer, Mrs F. FARNSWORTH, Mrs J. GLapwin, Ms K. Horr, J. Hume, Mrs N. LippeEtrt, Mrs I. MecCuttocu, Dr N. McCuttocu, P.J. Moores, F. Sasest, Mrs A. Scott, Mrs B. SNow, A.J. Warr. Dr Storrs Olson gave the address “‘Prehistoric Birdlife of the Hawaiian Islands’’. He gave an account of the study carried out since 1970 which followed the fortuitous discovery of fossilised bones on a beach in Hawaii, and has revealed the existence of an extraordinary avifauna, including several iarge flightless forms, which was largely exterminated by the Polynesians who colonized the archipelago long before its ‘discovery’ by Captain Cook. His address was received with great interest and stimulated much discussion and many questions; and the meeting was only finally closed by lack of time. THE CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS (given at the meeting of the Club on 19 May 1992) HERBERT STEVENS Last year I spoke on our two important benefactors (Peal 1991) and there is some further information which has come to light about Herbert Stevens. I have examined the Journal of the Bengal Natural History Society in the period immediately after World War II to see if there were anything that could be linked to Stevens. It was a journal with neither lists of contents nor indexes, so the only way of tracing a writer or paper is by looking through it, page by page. I found in 1946 a critical review of “‘A List of the Birds of Darjeeling and Neighbourhood’’, which I recognized from drafts found in Stevens’s papers. It proved to have much additional material, not in the surviving drafts, on birds there. After 11 pages it was continued—three issues later—and then again in the following issue. In that journal the author’s name was sometimes printed at the head of the paper and sometimes at the foot. Stevens’s name was not at the head of the paper in question nor was it at the foot either, although the use in it of the first person singular in a number of places shows that he intended his name to appear as the writer (see References: Stevens 1946-1947). However, by the time that the final part eventually went to press, the editor had presumably overlooked that it had not already been given. Asa result, its authorship is recorded in the Zoological Record as ‘‘Anon’’. W.S. Peckover has written to me pointing out that the two sketch maps printed within Stevens’s “Narrative” of his travels in New Guinea in 1931-1932 (Stevens 1935 pp. 20,21) contain errors that have been followed by authors up to at least 1969. In the Stevens archive at the Hancock Museum at Newcastle upon Tyne there are some 50 maps which were found in his house after his death and two of them are of parts of New The Chairman’s Address 140 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Guinea. One is “British and German New Guinea’’, scale 1/2,000,000, War Office, August 1906, I.D.W.O. No. 1827, and it contains few of the names of places shown on the maps in Stevens (1935, pp. 20,21) and has the parallel 7°S in a different position to the second of those maps. The other is ‘‘Map of the Territory of Papua from the latest Surveys 1919, scale 30 miles to an inch’’. It does not purport to cover the Australian Mandated Territory, formerly German New Guinea, in which alone Stevens travelled. I am not aware of any writing by Stevens on them. It is clear that his 1935 paper had not been seen by him in proof before it was printed. It looks as if the faulty sketch maps had been produced, not by Stevens, either for some earlier work by another author or to illustrate another contemporary paper as well as that cited above. Here I will mention that I have been given from the records in the Hancock Museum references to Field Museum publications in which Stevens is mentioned in connexion with collecting for that museum. These comprise a report of birds collected by Stevens on the Kelley- Roosevelts Asiatic Expedition 1928-1929 (Bangs 1932), and other refer- ences to Stevens on that expedition and on the C. Suydam Cutting Sikkim Expedition 1930-1931 (Field Museum of Natural History, Annual Reports of the Director for the years 1928-31, Report Series 7: 443-444; 8: 76-81, 183-184, 434-435; 9: 24, 98, 198). Last year I had little information about Stevens’s activities between December 1913, when he arrived back in the Darjeeling area from furlough in Europe, and January 1920. It appeared that Amy, whom he married, travelled at the latter time from England and I suggested that it was probably shortly afterwards that they married. In the last year I have been able to search the Bengal Marriage Registers and have traced their marriage. It was at the Wesleyan Church, Suddin Street, Calcutta on 13 November 1915, Herbert describing himself as ‘Tea Planter, aged 35 and Amy being described as Spinster, aged 32, occupation unstated. Amy’s address was ‘“‘Calcutta Passenger in S S Manori [writing not clear, perhaps Manora]’’, so she was newly arrived. Herbert’s address was “‘Gopaldhara, ... Darjeeling’? and Thacker’s Indian Directory 1915 recorded him as Manager of Gopaldhara tea estate. The particular interest in the discovery of the date of his marriage is that, although the marriage was apparently a very happy one, there is no record of it in any of the papers of Stevens which have survived. Thus there is a very strong presumption that he had files covering 1914-1920 which have been lost at some time since he died and could have included natural history matters as well as personal papers. The ages in the marriage register did not correspond with those registered when they died, both being shown as older when they died than the ages at marriage suggest, Herbert by 2—4 years and Amy by 1-3 years. As both had names that were very common in the Birth Registers and their dates of birth are not important, I have not pursued this further. THE CLUB As I have pointed out earlier in more detail (Peal 1980), P.L. Sclater, the first Chairman of the Club, wrote in 1908 on its origins (Sclater 1909). He recorded that at the British Ornithologists’ Union annual general meeting The Chairman’s Address 141 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) in 1892 a Committee was appointed to consider a proposal to establish an Ornithological Club to hold ‘“‘monthly meetings at which papers shall be read and specimens exhibited’’, and that the proposal was entirely due to Bowdler Sharpe. I have wondered how the idea of constituting the Club might have originated and have considered two precedents that were known to Bowdler Sharpe (and to some, if not all, of the other four members of the Committee). One precedent was the Zoological Club, which was founded in 1866. Membership was restricted to Fellows or Corresponding Members of the Zoological Society of London who regularly attended scientific meetings of the Society. The Club met approximately monthly from November to June. It was a dining club that met before or after the Society’s meetings at which scientific matters were discussed and subsequently published, but scientific business was no part of the Club’s meetings. Bowdler Sharpe was a member of that Club from 1892 to 1893 and had previously attended occasionally as a guest. The other precedent known to me was the Nuttall Ornithological Club (Davis 1987). That was founded at Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1873 to hold meetings every week at 8.00 p.m. and the reading of papers was the main business. The next year a proposal to publish a “Bulletin”? was con- sidered and publication began in 1876 with papers which had been read and approved for publication at meetings. In 1880 meetings were reduced to two a month from October to mid-June, and they were usually held in private houses until about 1887, from when they were held in the Brewster Museum. In 1883 the American Ornithologists’ Union was formed and the Club discontinued the Bulletin but offered the A.O.U. the goodwill and subscription list, the A.O.U. continuing publication as ‘““The Auk’’. In 1886 the Nuttall Club published as its first Memoir a paper read at a meeting which was too long for publication in Auk. Bowdler Sharpe was elected a Foreign Honorary Member of the Nuttall Club in 1878. Next I will refer to the matter of Dr H. O. Forbes, quite an eminent zoologist and already a Club member by the time of its third meeting (December 1892), at which he spoke. The Club Committee Minute Book records that the Committee met on 13 February 1918 ‘“‘to consider two resolutions brought forward by Dr H.O. Forbes’’. The first was that persons of alien enemy blood should be excluded from meetings of the Club and the second was that Lord Rothschild should be replaced as Chairman because he had voted for the non-expulsion of amember of alien enemy blood. (There is no record surviving of previous consideration of any proposed expulsion.) The Committee, Lord Rothschild not being present, agreed that the first proposal was aimed solely at Hartert, who had become a naturalised British subject eight years before the war had begun and whose son had been killed in action in the British army, and should never have been put forward, and it vetoed the second proposal. A General Meeting held soon after supported the Committee unanimously—except for Dr Forbes. When, on 24 July that year, the Committee next met, it resolved ‘‘that the name of Mr [sic] H.O. Forbes be struck off the list of members’’. It was the only occasion on which a Club member has been expelled or asked to resign (other than for non-payment of subscription). The Chairman’s Address 142 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) However Forbes was not restricting himself to fighting the Club Committee. At the British Ornithologists’ Union annual general meeting on 13 March 1918 the B.O.U. Committee laid on the table letters exchanged between Forbes and some members of that Committee and reported that the whole tone of Forbes’s letters had been most improper and unworthy of a member and called on him to apologize and withdraw or to resign (British Ornithologists’ Union 1918). His name is not in the 1919 list of B.O.U. members. ‘To commemorate the centenary of the Club’s inauguration this year two special publications will be issued this autumn. One is a book, Birds, Discovery and Conservation, containing excerpts from the Bulletin over the last hundred years, edited by Dr D.W. Snow and annotated by him and others with specialist knowledge of the relevant subjects. It will be published by Helm Information by arrangement with the Club. The other is a special volume of the Bulletin, entitled Avian Systematics and Taxonomy, edited by Dr J.F. Monk, consisting of invited papers by leading authorities. The importance of the Bulletin over the years may well not be realized by members. I had recently a sample of 99 bird species, first described within the last 100 years and still generally recognized as valid species. ‘This was random as regards the work in which the descriptions had been published and it is interesting that no fewer than 49 of them had been in the Bulletin. I imagine that a sample of new subspecies would show a similarly large proportion in the Bulletin. I am most grateful to A.N. Tynan, the Curator of the Hancock Museum, Newcastle upon Tyne, and to Mrs F.E. Warr, of the Zoological Museum, Tring for the considerable assist- ance which they have given me. My thanks are also due to Unity McDonnell of the Zoological Club and to William E. Davis, Jr. of the Nuttall Ornithological Club for information about these Clubs. Rona.p E.F. PEAL References: Bangs, O. 1932. Birds of western China obtained by the Kelley-Roosevelts Expedition. Field Mus. Nat. Hist. Zool. Ser. 18: 343-379. British Ornithologists’ Union 1918. Report of Annual General Meeting. Jbzs (10)6: 338-342. Davis, W. E., Jr. 1987. History of the Nuttall Ornithological Club 1873-1986. Nuttall Orn. Club, Cambridge, Mass. Osgood, W. H. 1932. Mammals of the Kelley-Roosevelts and Delacour Asiatic Expeditions. Field Mus. Nat. Hist. Zool. Ser. 18: 193-339. Peal, R. E. F. 1980. A short history of the Club and its Bulletin. Bull. Brit. Orn. Club 100: 4-13. Peal, R. E. F. 1991. The Chairman’s Address. F. J. F. Barrington, Herbert Stevens— Benefactors of the Club. Bull. Brit. Orn. Club 111: 177-182. Sclater, P. L. 1909. A short history of the British Ornithologists’ Union. Ibis (9)2: 19-69. Stevens, H. 1935. ‘Narrative’, pp. 19-24 in J. C. Greenway, Jr., Birds from the Coastal Range between the Markham and the Waria rivers, northeastern New Guinea. Proc. New England Zool. Cl. 14: 15-106. Stevens, H. 1946-47. On “‘A list of the birds of Darjeeling and neighbourhood”’. 7. Bengal Nat. Hist. Soc. 21: 31—41, 104-116; 22: 6-12. A.W. Kraiter et al. 143 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Further notes on bird distribution in northeastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia, with two species new to Bolivia by Andrew W. Kratter, Maria Dolores Carreno, R. Terry Chesser, fohn P.O’ Neill & T. Scott Sillett Received 23 Fuly 1991 We report here on the continuing inventory of birds of the Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado (PNNKM,) in the northeastern corner of the Dpto. Santa Cruz in eastern Bolivia. One month was spent con- ducting fieldwork in two forest sites south of sites in the park surveyed in earlier expeditions to PNNKM (Bates et al. 1989, 1992). This inventory is part of a continuing cooperative project between the Museum of Natural Science at Louisiana State University (LSUMNS), the Museo de Historia Natural ‘“‘Noel Kempff Mercado’”’ at the Universidad Autonoma ‘Gabriel Rene Moreno” in Santa Cruz, Bolivia (MHNNKM), and the PNNKM. The two sites were in tall humid forest along the base of the Serrania de Huanchaca. The first camp, 86 km ESE of the village of Florida (14°50'S, 60°25’ W), was near the terminus of a new extension of a logging road that skirts the base of the Serrania and now reaches the Brazilian border in the southeast corner of the park. We surveyed this site from 31 July to 21 August 1990. It was approximately 3 km south of the Serrania’s base, along a small arroyo flowing off the Serrania. Other than the road itself and the felling of scattered mahogany trees, the area showed little disturbance. The high densities of Spider Monkeys Ateles paniscus and several species of large cracids (Pipile pipile, Pipile cujubi, Mitu tuberosa and Penelope jacquacu) attested to low hunting pressure. The forest canopy averaged 35 m, with emergent trees reaching 50 m. The area was gently rolling, with steeper terrain north and east of the site. A small boggy area (approximately 5 ha) was 200 m downstream from the camp. Rather sparse stands of bamboo (Guadua sp.) occurred along the arroyos in the area, and undergrowth was generally sparse, with little epiphytic vegetation away from streams. From 22 to 27 August, we surveyed a second site 60 km ESE of Florida (14°42'S, 60°39’ W), approximately 4km west of the Serrania’s base on gently rolling terrain. The canopy here averaged only 20-25 m, with thicker vine and undergrowth vegetation than the first site. Bamboo, much more extensive here, was concentrated in two major patches, each with dense bamboo growth up to 15m high, which was somewhat disturbed by cutting for construction materials. The PNNKM™ area is an important zoogeographic area, not only because the nearby Madeira/Guaporeé river system forms the boundary for many species replacements within allopatric superspecies groups (Bates et al. 1989), but also because this is one of the southernmost areas of humid tropical forest in western Amazonia. The first camp was A.W. Kratter et al. 144 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) located in the closest humid forests in Bolivia that are continuous with the endemic-rich humid forests of Mato Grosso and Rondonia, Brazil. Several Rondonian endemics have been recently discovered in the PNNKM, indicating that some of these species cross the river barriers, probably in the headwaters where the rivers become narrower (Bates et al. 1989). The occurrence of bamboo is also of interest, because this habitat often harbours unique avian communities (Parker 1982, Parker et al. in press). Apparently, there are at least two intra-generic species replacements between forest sites at the first site and those that have been surveyed further north in PNNKM (EI Encanto, Los Fierros, and sites on the Huanchaca plateau: Bates et al. 1989, 1992): Thamnomanes caesius and Sclerurus albigularis at our first camp replace T. saturninus and S. rufigularis at the northern sites, respectively. Unfortunately, not one of these species was recorded at the second camp, which is geographically intermediate between the first camp and Los Fierros and El Encanto. However, neither of these species pairs may form a superspecies: T. schistogynus is the presumed allospecies of JT. caesius (Meyer de Schauensee 1966), and species relationships within Sclerurus are un- certain. However, for 17 intensively sampled localities in northeastern Peru (specimen data from LSUMNS), another area of overlap for both species pairs, neither T. caestus and T. saturninus nor S. albigularis and S. rufigularis were collected at the same site, suggesting ecological replacement. Several bamboo specialist species (e.g. Celeus spectabilis, Simoxenops ucayalae, Automolus melanopezus, Cymbilaimus sanctaemariae and Cercomacra manu) that have been recorded in similar bamboo in humid lowland forest from Dpto. Pando, Bolivia (Parker & Remsen 1987) to northern Mato Grosso, Brazil (Parker et al. in press), were not recorded in the bamboo groves in the PNNKM. Their absence might be explained by the small size of the stands or by the expected decrease of richness of forest birds at the periphery of the Amazon Basin. A number of forest species common further north (e.g. Dpto. Beni) are also missing without obvious ecological replacement in the PNNKM (e.g. Eubucco richardsonti, Deconychura longicauda, Ancistrops strigilatus, Automolus infuscatus, several Philydor spp. and Terenura humeralis). We recorded two species not previously recorded from Bolivia and five species not previously known from Dpto. Santa Cruz; also collected were the first Bolivian specimens of Capito day. The following accounts give details for a presumed hybrid Celeus, as well as the new records for Bolivia and Dpto. Santa Cruz; details are also given for records of some poorly known species, especially those found in bamboo. All specimens are housed at the LSUMNS and the MHNNKM. Several hours of tape recordings made by AWK and JPO are housed at the Library of Natural Sounds (LNS), Laboratory of Ornithology, Cornell University. RUFOUS-NECKED PUFFBIRD Malacoptila rufa This species was uncommon in the undergrowth at the first camp, where three birds were netted. A fourth specimen, collected by RTC on the rim of the Serrania, about a 3-hour walk to the north of the first camp, A. W. Kratter et al. 145 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) was perched 2 m up in rather low open forest. These are the first Bolivian records of this widespread but poorly known species of central Amazonia. Our specimens are most similar to M. r. rufa, the western Amazonian subspecies, but tend toward the southern subspecies M.r. brunnescens ina few characters. Like brunnescens, the Huanchaca specimens have browner, less rufescent, backs and the lores are lighter buff. However, the underparts are more similar to those of rufa, as is the crown streaking, but this character is slightly more distinct on the Huanchaca specimens than on rufa specimens from Peru (LSUMNS specimens). In these respects, our specimens are very similar to the descriptions of specimens of WM. rufa by Zimmer (1931) from both banks of the upper Rio Madeira and the left (west) bank of the lower portion of this river. Zimmer considered these specimens closest to M.r. rufa, but with some intermediate characters. BLACK-GIRDLED BARBET Capito dayi This species was uncommon in the canopy at the first camp. A female was collected by A. Yepez, and a pair was collected by TSS in tall humid forest at the first camp. The pair was foraging approximately 40m up in a fruiting fig (Ficus sp.); another pair was observed likewise, feeding in the upper canopy of an emergent fig. The only previous Bolivian record of this species was a tape recording from El Encanto in the PNNKM, about 38km northwest of this site (Bates et al. 1989). This species, largely restricted to the Rondonia Centre of endemism (Cracraft 1985), is replaced farther west in Bolivia (Dptos. Santa Cruz, La Paz, Cochabamba, and Pando) by C. niger. Celeus lugubris x C. elegans hybrid An adult female with characteristics intermediate between these two members of the C. elegans superspecies was netted in bamboo along the arroyo of the first site on 8 August. Three presumed hybrids between these species have been described from nearby Mato Grosso, Brazil (Short 1972). The specimen collected in the PNNKM is intermediate between Jugubris and elegans in the following characteristics (measure- ments for elegans and lugubris from Short 1972): the entire forecrown and upper crown is chestnut like elegans (but somewhat lighter), but the rear feathers of the crest are long (c. 35 mm as compared to <25 mm for elegans) and blonde as in lugubris; the throat is chestnut like elegans, but a few blonde feathers, as in /ugubris, are interspersed; the pale bars on the back are thin but distinct (hybrid, 1.75 mm wide; lugubris, 2.64 mm; elegans, + solid chestnut), and the dark bars of the secondaries are thick and spread completely across the feathers (hybrid, 7.5 mm wide; lugubris, 2.81 mm, elegans, completely dark). The wing length is intermediate between the two species (hybrid, 148 mm; lugubris, range 138-146 mm, mean 141 mm; elegans, range 153-161 mm, mean 156.3 mm). The tail and culmen lengths are within the range of elegans. The sixth (outer) rectrices of our bird are both rufous, but have asymmetrical barring. The left rectrix has a complete basal bar and four partial black bars, and the upper bars are incomplete across the rachis. In contrast, the right outer rectrix has four blacks spots on the feather’s edge, and is completely rufous adjacent to the rachis. Although there is some overlap in this character, A. W. Kratter et al. 146 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) most elegans have rufous outer rectrices with black bases, whereas the rufous outer rectrices of /ugubris are either fully or partially barred black (Short 1972). The hybrid described herein is most similar to the male described by Short. The head colour of the two female hybrids from Mato Grosso is buffy, whereas ours is brown-chestnut, with flecks of blonde in the throat; the male hybrid has a head pattern similar to our bird, but the crest feathers are shorter (c. 30 mm) and the blonde is more extensive in the forecrown. Both female hybrids from Mato Grosso have superficially solid rufous secondaries, and only slight barring on the inner webs, whereas our bird has all secondaries fully barred with chestnut. The male hybrid from Mato Grosso has the inner secondaries half barred and the outer secondaries fully barred. The black barring of all hybrids described by Short is rufous, whereas our specimen has pale yellow barring. The outer rectrices of our bird are similar to the male hybrid described by Short. The intermediate wing length in our specimen is also similar to these birds. The locality of the Huanchaca hybrid may be only 50 km northwest of the collection site of two of the Mato Grosso birds, where several “normal” C. lugubris were also collected (Short 1972). Apparently elegans and lugubris meet in the ecotone between dry chaco woodland and humid Amazonian forests. Humid forests in the vicinity of the first camp are limited to a narrow band (10 to 20 km wide) along the base of the Serrania de Huanchaca; thus the location should be in the vicinity of expected sympatry, even though the specimen was collected well within humid forest. C. elegans that were presumed to be pure have been seen in humid forests in the PNNKM (Theodore A. Parker III in 1989, and several by TSS, JPO and RTC in 1990), but no specimens have been collected. C. lugubris has been collected in drier forests approximately 420km west of the park at San Juan in Dpto. Beni (Olrog 1963) and approximately 375 km southwest in Dpto. Santa Cruz (near Rio Quizer, LSUMNS), but is unknown from the PNNKM. At the Beni site, Olrog (1963) also collected a specimen that he published as Celeus “roosevelti’’. This “‘species,’’ known only from the type from Mato Grosso, was later determined by Short (1972) to probably represent a C. elegans x lugubris hybrid. Therefore, it is quite possible that Olrog’s specimen represents another C. elegans x lugubris hybrid. GREY-THROATED LEAFSCRAPER Sclerurus albigularis This species was fairly common in the low undergrowth at the first site, where it was recorded almost daily and six were collected. It has been recorded farther west in the Dpto. Santa Cruz (Remsen et al. 1986), but had not been previously recorded in the PNNKM. This record is of biogeographical interest because the Amazonian distribution of the species was thought to be restricted to the Andean foothills in the Upper Tropical and Lower Subtropical Zones (Meyer de Schauensee 1966). Our record, at the hilly base of the Serrania Huanchaca, extends the distribution 350 km east across apparently unsuitable lowland habitats. Other species in the PNNKM, including Hirundinea ferruginea, Tangara cyanicollis, Basileuterus culicivorus and Carduelis olivacea, show a similar A.W. Kratter etal. 147 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) disjunction (Bates et al. 1992). S. albigularis appears to be replaced in the northern portion of PNNKM (Los Fierros and on the plateau) by S. rufigularis (Bates et al. 1989; J. M. Bates, pers. comm.). In Peru, S. albigularis and S. rufigularis tend to segregate elevationally: S. albigularis is a foothill species, whereas S. rufigularis is a lowland species (Parker et al. 1982). Our specimens, possibly representing a new subspecies, differ from described subspecies of S. albigularis inanumber of characters: the breast and belly are greyer than other subspecies; the upper breast and back are less rufescent; and the rump is concolor with the brownish back (only the upper tail converts are rufous). Mensural characters in our specimens (1=7) also differ significantly from the nearest subspecies (S. a. albicollis from Bolivia, »=7, and S. a. zamorae from lowland Peru, n=9; speci- mens from LSUMNS). The bill is shorter than albicollis (ANOVA: Scheffe’s F=5.869, P<0.01). The wing chord is shorter than zamorae (Scheffe’s F=5.016, P<0.01). The tail is shorter than both albicollis (Scheffe’s. F=3.131,- P<0.05) and zamorae (Scheffe’s F=8.589, P<0.001), and the tarsi are shorter than both albicollis (Scheffe’s F=13.507, P<0.001) and zamorae (Scheffe’s F=11.479, P<0.001). At the species level, the white throat with a grey lower border, rufous breast band, brownish back and rufous upper-tail coverts indicate that our specimens are S. albigularis. FASCIATED ANTSHRIKE Cymbilaimus lineatus ‘This species was uncommon in the subcanopy at the first camp, where a male was collected by AWK in the viney subcanopy of humid forest. Other individuals were occasionally seen and heard, often associated with Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus, Cercomacra cinerascens and other sub- canopy birds. The antshrikes foraged exclusively in vines and denser foliage. Although these are the first records of this Amazonian species for the Dpto. Santa Cruz, there are other records from southern Amazonia from northwestern Mato Grosso in Brazil (Cardoso da Silva & Oniki 1988). CINEREOUS ANTSHRIKE Thamnomanes caesius This widely distributed Amazonian species was a fairly common member of understorey mixed-species flocks at the first camp, where heard daily; five were collected. These are the first records for Bolivia. Thamnomanes caesius is apparently replaced by T. saturninus in similar humid forests in the northern part of the park (Los Fierros, El Encanto, camps on the Huanchaca plateau; Bates et al. 1989, 1992), as close as 38 km northwest of the first camp. This species ranges across central Amazonia, a distribution somewhat similar to that of Malacoptila rufa. T. schistogynus, the presumed allospecies of T. caesius (Meyer de Schauensee 1966), occurs along the Andean foothills, 500 km west of the Serrania Huanchaca in Dpto. Cochabamba. The Andean foothill/Serrania Huanchaca distribution in Thamnomanes is shared by other pairs of closely related taxa, such as Capito niger/C. dayi and Sclerurus albigularis albicollis/S.a. ssp. nov.? (see above). Separating these pairs is the Rio Mamoreé/Rio Grande drainage, a major river system in southwest Amazonia. A. W. Kratter et al. 148 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) STRIATED ANTBIRD Drymophila devillei This bamboo specialist was rare at the second camp. A juvenile female was collected from the vicinity of the second site by Tristan J. Davis during the 1989 LSUMNS/MHNNKM expedition. A singing male was collected in 1990 by JPO in bamboo at the second camp, and a second bird was heard singing in another bamboo patch. These specimens are most similar to descriptions of the subspecies D. d. subochracea, known only from the type specimen from central Brazil and recent specimens from Rio Arapuana, Mato Grosso (Novaes 1976). There have also been recent sight records of D. d. subochracea from Alta Floresta, Mato Grosso (Parker et al. in press). Although much of the forest avifauna of PNNKM has close affinities with that of Rondonia, Brazil (Bates et al. 1989), itis the more southern and eastern D. d. subochracea that is found in the PNNKM and not the nominate white-bellied race, which is found in Rondonia and Dpto. Pando (Parker et al. in press). DUSKY-TAILED FLYCATCHER Ramphotrigon fuscicauda This species was uncommon at both sites, but was much more fre- quently found at the second site. One bird was collected at the first site, and four at the second site. This species is often associated with bamboo (Parker 1984), and so it is not surprising that it has not been recorded from the other forest sites inventoried in the PNNKM, none of which have significant stands of bamboo (Bates et al. 1989, 1992). This little-known bird was previously recorded in Bolivia only from Dptos. La Paz and Pando (Remsen & Traylor 1989). Our records, the first for Dpto. Santa Cruz, extend the range of the species 700 km to the southeast, although it has been recently recorded to the northeast of Alta Floresta, Mato Grosso (Parker et al. in press). . LARGE-HEADED FLYCATCHER Ramphotrigon megacephala This species is even more restricted to bamboo than is R. fuscicauda (Parker 1984). Specimens were netted in bamboo understorey at the first (n= 1) and second sites (2=5). It was more common than R. fuscicauda at both camps (see above), but like that species, R. megacephala was also restricted to bamboo groves. The mournful, two-note, descending song of this species was frequently heard in the early morning. Individuals made short sally strikes to bamboo leaves from midlevel (3—6 m) perches in bamboo groves. The species had been recorded from lowland bamboo in western Dpto. Santa Cruz (Remsen et al. 1987), but was unknown this far east in Bolivia. It has also been recently discovered in Rondonia and Mato Grosso (Parker et al. in press). WHITE-CRESTED SPADEBILL Platyrinchus platyrhynchos This species was apparently uncommon at both sites. A male, netted in the understorey of the first site on 12 August, was the first specimen for Dpto. Santa Cruz. The only other Santa Cruz record of this species is represented by recordings made in PNNKM in 1989 (T. A. Parker ITI, pers. comm.). TOOTH-BILLED WREN Odontorchilus cinereus This canopy wren was uncommon at the first site and fairly common at the second site. Two were collected by TSS and AWK from low, viney A.W. Kratter et al. 149 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) forest just east of the second site. This poorly known species is thought to associate mainly with canopy mixed-species flocks (Bates et al. 1992), but we also noted them skulking in the viney subcanopy (c. 5—8 m up) of forest trees, where they were usually in the presence of Parula pitiayumi and Tachyphonus luctuosus. The wrens had call notes similar to those of P. pitiayumi, but they also gave harsh scolding notes, reminiscent of other wrens. The first Bolivian records of this little-known species, and the only records outside Brazil, were obtained in 1989, farther north in the PNNKM (Bates et al. 1992). ROSE-BREASTED CHAT Granatellus pelzelni Our only record of this rare species was a male netted in the bamboo understorey of the second camp on 26 August. This species had been taperecorded in the PNNKM (Bates et al. 1989), but this was the first specimen for Dpto. Santa Cruz. This Amazonian species is local and uncommon throughout its range (Ridgely & Tudor 1989). SLATY GROSBEAK Pitylus grossus One male was collected by A. Yepez in humid forest at the first camp on 16 August. This uncommon species was occasionally heard singing in dense, tall vine tangles in the mid to upper canopy, but was shy and difficult to see. These records are at the southern periphery of the range of this widespread species (Ridgely & Tudor 1989) and are the first for Dpto. Santa Cruz, and for the PNNKM. Acknowledgements The 1990 expedition was funded by the generous donations of John S. Mcllhenny. The staff of the PNNKM, under the direction of Ing. Nestor Ruiz, gave their usual enthusiastic support; we particularly thank Gregorio Cerro Grande and Armando Yepez. Permission to work in Bolivia was granted by the Centro de Desarrollo Forestal, under the direction of Lic. Arturo Moscoso. Abel Castillo and Hermes Justiniano, of the Fundacion Amigos de la Naturaleza (FAN) in Santa Cruz, were indispensable in helping us organize and bring supplies to our fieldcamps. Armando Yépez of the PNNKM provided invaluable help in the field once again. Juan Surubi also provided much needed assistance in the field. Lic. Maria Teresa de Centurion, Director, and Marcelo Zalles of the MHNNKM helped with the permitting process in Santa Cruz and provided a valuable link between the MHNNKM and the LSUMNS. Identifications of the hours of tape-recorded bird calls were made by Theodore A. Parker III. This manuscript benefited from critical review by John M. Bates and J. V. Remsen Jr. References: Bates, J. M., Garvin, M. C., Schmitt, D. C. & Schmitt, C. G. 1989. Notes on bird distri- bution in northeastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia, with 15 species new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 109: 236-244. Bates, J. M., Parker, T. A., III, Capparella, A. P. & Davis, T. J. 1992. Observations on the campo, cerrado and forest avifaunas of eastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia, including 21 species new to the country. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 112: 86-98. Cardoso da Silva, J. M.S. & Oniki, Y. 1988. Lista preliminar da avifauna da estac¢ao ecologia Serra das Araras, Mato Grosso, Brazil. Bol. Mus. Para. Emilio Goeldi, sér. Zool. 4: 123-143. Cracraft, J. 1985. Historical biogeography and patterns of differentiation within the South American avifauna: areas of endemism. Pp. 49-84 in Neotropical Ornithology (P. A. Buckley, M.S. Foster, R. S. Ridgely & F. G. Buckley eds). Orn. Monogr. no. 36. Meyer de Schauensee, R. 1966. The Species of Birds of South America with their Distribution. Livingston, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. Novaes, F. C. 1976. As aves do Rio Aripuana, Estados de Mato Grosso e Amazonas. Acta Amaz. 6 (Suppl.): 61-85. W.S. Clark 150 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Olrog, C. 1963. Notas sobre aves bolivianas. Acta Zool. Lilloana 19: 407-478. Parker, T. A., III. 1982. Observations of some unusual rainforest and marsh birds of southeastern Peru. Wilson Bull. 94: 477—493. Parker, T. A., III. 1984. Notes on the behavior of Ramphotrigon flycatchers. Auk 101: 186-188. Parker, T. A., III, Fitzpatrick, J. W. & Stotz, D. F. In press. Notes on avian bamboo specialists in southwestern Amazonian Brazil. Wilson Bull. Parker, T. A., III, Parker, S. A. & Plenge, M. A. 1982. An Annotated Checklist of Peruvian Birds. Buteo Books, Vermillion, South Dakota. Parker, T. A., III & Remsen, J. V., Jr. 1987. Fifty-two Amazonian bird species new to Bolivia. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 94-107. Remsen, J. V., Jr. & Traylor, M. A., Jr. 1989. An Annotated List of the Birds of Bolivia. Buteo Books, Vermillion, South Dakota. Remsen, J. V., Jr., Traylor, M. A., Jr. & Parkes, K. C. 1986. Range extensions for some Bolivian birds, 2 (Columbidae to Rhinocryptidae). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 106: 22-32. Remsen, J. V., Jr., Traylor, M. A., Jr. & Parkes, K. C. 1987. Range extensions for some Bolivian birds, 3 (Tyrannidae to Passeridae). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 6-16. Ridgely, R.S. & Tudor, G. 1989. The Birds of South America. Vol. 1, The Oscine Passerines. Oxford Univ. Press and Univ. of Texas Press. Short, L. L. 1972. Relationships among the four species of the superspecies Celeus elegans (Aves, Picidae). Am. Mus. Novit. no. 2487. Zimmer, J.T’. 1931. Studies of Peruvian birds. I. New and other birds from Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil. Am. Mus. Novit. no. 500. Addresses: Andrew W. Kratter, R. Terry Chesser, and T. Scott Sillett, Museum of Natural Science and Department of Zoology and Physiology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, U.S.A.; John P. O'Neill, Museum of Natural Science, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, U.S.A.; Maria Dolores Carreno, Museo de Historia Natural ‘‘Noel Kempft Mercado,” Universidad Autonoma ““Gabriel Rene Moreno,” Santa Cruz, Bolivia. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 The taxonomy of Steppe and ‘Tawny Eagles, with criteria for separation of museum specimens and live eagles by William S. Clark Received 2 August 1991 The Steppe Eagle of the steppes and plains of Asia and eastern Europe and the Tawny Eagle of the savannas of India and Africa were long considered separate species, Aquila nipalensis and A. rapax respectively, in checklists (Peters 1931, Swann 1931) and regional bird handbooks (e.g. Baker 1928). Beginning in the 1950s, some authorities (Meinertzhagen 1951, 1954, Vaurie 1965, Brown & Amadon 1968, and others) treated them as races of a single species, for which the oldest name is A. rapax. Others, however, continued to regard them as separate species (Grossman & Hamlet 1964, Porter et al. 1981, Christensen et al. 1981; see especially Brooke et al. 1972, Amadon 1982). Most who considered them races (e.g. Glutz W.S. Clark 151 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) von Blotzheim et al. 1971, Cramp & Simmons 1980) nevertheless treated them as separate entities because of their differences. Amadon (Stresemann & Amadon 1979) altered Stresemann’s original manuscript by combining nipalensis with rapax. Clancey (1966) considered them component allospecies of a superspecies. The taxonomic arrangement of these eagles in Sibley & Monroe (1990) will be amended in a future revision that will place nipalensis and orientalis together as the Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis and will place vindhiana and the African forms together as the Tawny Eagle A. rapax (B. L. Monroe, pers. comm.). The taxa involved are: Steppe Eagle, consisting of two contiguous subspecies in the Palaearctic, orientalis in the west and nipalensis in the east, that differ only in size. Variation is clinal, larger birds occurring in the east. Both are entirely migratory (Dementiev & Gladkow 1966). Tawny Eagle, consisting of three subspecies, rapax and belisarius, con- tiguous in southern and northern (respectively) Africa and southern Arabia, and vindhiana in India. All three are sedentary. Despite present (but presumably not past) separation from African races, vindhiana is not very different (Brown & Amadon 1968). The lack of consensus on the taxonomic status of these eagles has caused confusion; the common names Tawny Eagle and Steppe Eagle are sometimes used interchangeably and sometimes to refer to distinct forms. Apparently the main reason that various authors considered these eagles conspecific is that they could not distinguish all individuals (e.g. Meinertzhagen 1954). Herein I present criteria for the correct identifi- cation of all museum specimens and live birds in the hand of both eagles by either morphology or plumage. Based on my museum and field experience with Steppe and Tawny Eagles in Israel, Egypt, Kenya and India. I find them to differ in plumage, structure and proportions, flight, feeding ecology, and breeding habitat. I suggest that taxonomists reconsider the reasons for treating them as conspecific. Sources and methods Information on Steppe and Tawny Eagles was gathered by searching the pertinent literature (LeFranc & Clark 1983), by studying museum specimens, and by observing and photographing both forms in the field. All specimens of both forms (> 100) were examined and studied in the collections of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), United States National Museum of Natural History (NMNH), Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), Tel-Aviv University, and Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences. Standard measurements of wing chord, exposed culmen and hallux length were taken on each specimen. In addition, two measurements were taken on the gape; one was the width from one edge of the mouth to the other, and the second was the length from the edge of the mouth to a point directly below the vertical line where the upper mandible enters the skin. Plumage details of each specimen, particularly those with plumage types shared by both eagles, were noted. After a draft of this paper had been prepared, all specimens of W.S. Clark 152 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) both forms (> 200) in the British Museum (Natural History) (BMNH) were examined. Thousands of Steppe Eagles were observed and many photographed in Israel and Egypt between 1980 and 1988. Tawny Eagles were observed and photographed in Kenya in 1986, and both eagles were observed and photographed in India in 1985, 1990 and 1991. The photographs were studied for structure and plumage detail. Thirteen Steppe Eagles captured for ringing in Israel were photographed in the hand. Dozens of Steppe Eagles that were in rehabilitation centres in Israel were observed closely, as were three Indian Tawny Eagles sent to Israel for release. Results As detailed in many references and observed in all specimens and many photographs, Steppe Eagles and Tawny Eagles differ in plumage, overall size and proportions, structure of beak and gape, and ecological niche; in particular, there are differences in breeding habitat, in prey, and in hunting, social and migratory behaviour. Three similar plumages are shared, but on closer inspection, all are distinct. All museum specimens and live eagles in the hand can be identified as Steppe or Tawny either by gape measurements or by plumage; consistent results are provided by both methods. In spite of this, I found dozens of museum specimens of one eagle misidentified as the other, or even as other eagles. Literature Most field researchers studying birds of prey in eastern and southern Africa, where both eagles occur during the northern winter, consider them to be separate species (e.g. Irwin & Benson 1986, Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire 1980, Steyn 1982). Brooke et al. (1972) list differences in plumage, structure, iris colour in adult, food preferences, and migratory and social behaviour as reasons for separation. Kozlova (1975), who studied the Steppe Eagle in the Soviet Union, also considered it sepcifically distinct from the Tawny Eagle. Amadon & Bull (1988) wrote: ‘““See Snow (1978) for reasons for keeping it [mzpalensis| a subspecies of A. rapax.’’ However, Snow (1978) argued rather unconvincingly that North African birds (belisarius) were intermediate, perhaps because they have a dark morph, lacking in southern Africa. Note that Amadon (1982) previously considered them separate species. Ecological niche ‘Tawny and Steppe Eagles are allopatric, despite hints in the literature that their breeding ranges overlap in India. There are no breeding records for the Steppe Eagle from India (Baker 1928, Ali & Ripley 1978), which is not surprising, as its breeding habitat is arid steppe (Dementiev & Gladkow 1966). The Tawny Eagle, on the other hand, breeds in a variety of grassy savanna habitats in India and Africa (Ali & Ripley 1978, Brown et al. 1982). W..S. Clark 153 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Tawny Eagles are active predators that take a wide range of prey from small to large; Steyn (1982) states that they capture mammals up to twice their weight and have even struck down flamingos. Smeenk (1974) studied their food in detail in East Africa and wrote: ‘“‘“Summarizing, the Tawny Eagle is ecologically the most wide-ranging large African bird of prey, taking whatever ground animals are readily available, from insects to small antelopes; scavenging and robbing of other predators are prac- tised wherever there is an opportunity.’’ Steyn (1973) also reported a wide range of prey for Tawny Eagles. On the other hand, Steppe Eagles on the breeding grounds specialize in capturing small mammals, mainly rodents (Dementiev & Gladkow 1966). Tyurekhodzhaev (1977) reported that 90°% of the Steppe Eagle’s diet are sousliks (ground squir- rels) Citellus pygmaeus. Semenov et al. (1962) found that Steppe Eagle and souslik populations fluctuated in synchrony. From the literature it is clear that they do not take nearly as wide a range of prey, nor take prey as large, as do Tawny Eagles, either when breeding (Cramp & Simmons 1980) or on wintering grounds (Brooke et al. 1972, Steyn 1982). From my field observations, Tawny Eagles appear to be much more active predators than Steppe Eagles; a view shared by Steyn (1982), who wrote about the Tawny: “‘It is a rapacious eagle, as its specific name rapax correctly indicates.’’ While airborne, both eagles will drop on prey and chase other predators to attempt piracy, but only the Tawny consistently uses powered flight to chase both prey and other predators. Another difference between these eagles is that the entire population of Steppe Eagles leaves the breeding ground and migrates to either India or Africa (Dementiev & Gladkow 1966, Cramp & Simmons 1980). The Tawny Eagle is mostly sedentary; movements, if any, are usually in response to wet or dry season (Thiollay 1978). Finally, Steppe Eagles are rather social, gathering in small to large groups to feed and migrate and forming communal night roosts (Brooke et al. 1972). Tawny Eagles are usually solitary or, at most, occur as pairs and are not reported to form communal night roosts. Plumages Steppe and Tawny Eagles differ considerably in plumage at all ages, particularly differing in the variety of plumages. Tawny Eagles are poly- morphic and vary greatly in plumage; but the plumages of individuals change little with age, with the exception of the dark-breasted birds mentioned below. Steppe Eagles’ plumages are much less variable within age classes; most variation is with age, birds becoming much darker as adults. Adult Tawny Eagles’ underparts vary from solid pale creamy, solid tawny, or solid rufous to tawny with rufous streaking or rufous with dark brown streaking, to uniform dark brown. Adult Steppe Eagles are less variable and have solid dark brown underparts. Many, if not all, non dark-morph Tawny Eagles have a plumage that is quite different from any Steppe Eagle plumage. This is characterized by a dark brown breast and pale belly and is most likely worn for a year or two between juvenile and adult plumages. W.S. Clark 154 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Juvenile and first-year Tawny Eagles likewise show a wide variety of underparts colour, varying from solid pale creamy to solid dark brown with almost every intermediate shade. Nevertheless, Steppe and Tawny Eagles have three similarly coloured plumages in common: dark-brown, grey-brown, and rufous-tawny, so called because of the bird’s overall colour. However, on close inspection, all three are consistently different in several details, as set out below. Tawny Eagle Steppe Eagle Solid dark brown colour c Adult. Dark-morph is solid dark brown; Adult. Always have rufous nape patch. nape dark, often with pale feather tips. Iris is yellow. Iris is brown, pale flecking. Younger birds have paler leg feathers and = Subadults head and back paler; they may undertail coverts and often pale spots on lack nape patch. Their undertail, uppertail, nape and belly. Coverts are uniformly and greater primary underwing coverts are coloured. brown and white. Grey-brown or rufous-tawny colouration All ages. Underwing coverts are First three years. Wide white tips to barred uniformly coloured. Juveniles and first secondaries and greater upperwing and summer birds have narrow white tips to underwing coverts on most birds; always on unbarred secondaries. Undertail coverts greater primary underwing coverts. are same colour as belly. Uppertail Undertail coverts white, contrast with brown coverts are same colour as back, not belly. Uppertail coverts are white. white. Rufous-tawny birds are common; grey- Rufous-tawny birds are rare; grey-brown brown birds occur frequently. birds are common. Structure The most consistent and easily measured morphological difference between these eagles is the size of the gape. As shown in Jankowitz (1976) and Biggs & Biggs (1978), this is proportionally larger in the Steppe Eagle. ‘Two gape measurements can be used to identify all individuals, either alive or dead (Table 1). Extremely large female Tawny Eagles and small male Steppe Eagles overlap slightly, but accurate sex information and plumage characters will serve to separate them in these cases. While Steppe Eagles are generally larger, there are overlaps in the measurements of wing chord, exposed culmen and hallux, even between individuals of the same sex. However, as Brooke et al. (1972) pointed out, Steppe Eagles are more sexually dimorphic in hallux length than are ‘Tawny Eagles, though my measurements (Table 2) do not-indicate as much difference as do theirs. In flight Tawny Eagles show a more classic aquiline silhouette (Steyn 1982); compared to flying Steppe Eagles, they tend to show a longer head and neck projection and to hold their wing less drooped when soaring and gliding. Steppe Eagles, when perched on the ground, appear more horizontal and elongated than ‘Tawny Eagles, which stand more erect and do not appear elongated. Steppe Eagles reach definitive or adult plumage by 4 years of age (Dementiev & Gladkow 1966). Confirming this I found only 4 non-adult plumages; this conclusion is based on moult, primarily of the secondaries. Age to maturity is thus not a definitive difference between these eagles as suggested by Brooke et al. (1972), who thought that it took Steppe Eagles W.S. Clark 155 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) TABLE 1 Gape measurements of Tawny and Steppe Eagles Mean width (mm) Mean length (mm) Male Female Male Female Tawny Eagle 43.6 (50) 44.5 (50) 34.0 (50) 35.0 (50) (range) (40.3-47.8) (40.8-49.9) (30.0-37.5) (33.2-41.0) Steppe Eagle 53.47) 55.3 (31) 44.3 (38) 45.8 (34) (range) (49.0-58.1) (52.3-60.8) (40.0-48.0) (41.8-49.7) Note. There is no overlap in measurements within sexes and only a slight overlap between forms. TABLE 2 Hallux measurements of Tawny and Steppe Eagles Mean length (mm) Male Female Tawny Eagle 31.6 (50) 33.0 (50) (range) (27.0-36.9) (29.0-37.0) Steppe Eagle 33.8 (38) 36.0 (34) (range) (28.3-36.8) (31.8-40.5) Note. Steppe Eagles are somewhat more di- morphic in hallux measurement than are Tawny Eagles. 6 or 7 years and Tawny Eagles only 4. It is unlikely that Steppe Eagles differ from other large eagles that reach maturity in 4 or at most 5 years, e.g. Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos (Jollie 1947), Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus (McCollough 1989), and White-tailed Eagle H. albicilla (Forsman 1981). Discussion That Tawny and Steppe Eagles differ almost everyone agrees; even most authorities who have considered them conspecific have treated them separately. What is disputed is their taxonomic relationship. Are they one species or two? There is a surprising paucity of supporting arguments given by the various authorities who considered them conspecific; Snow (1978) based his argument on the false assumption that the breeding range of Steppe Eagles and Indian Tawny Eagles were contiguous (and, as a result, that they intergraded). The single consistently stated reason for lumping them was that some individuals appeared identical, or nearly identical, to W.S. Clark 156 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) individuals of the other eagle. This argument is not convincing, consider- ing that general similarity of appearance plays a minor part in our present thinking on what constitutes a species and that now all individuals of these eagles can be correctly identified. Behavioural differences, particularly those relating to mate selection, are now considered more important in defining species differences. Misidentification of museum specimens of these eagles has hampered efforts to study their taxonomic status. This was, no doubt, one source of confusion to some authors who examined and compared misidentified with correctly identified specimens of each eagle and, finding no differ- ences, considered them conspecific. Similarly, lack of discrimination in the field during the periods when both species occur in Africa and India has further blurred the difference between them, particularly behavioural differences. Avian taxonomy has been aided by new laboratory analytic techniques that compare genetic material or blood proteins from two or more forms; use of these techniques would help determine the true taxonomic re- lationship of these eagles. However, the conclusive test of whether they are one or two species would be if their breeding ranges overlapped. Should this happen, I believe that Steppe and Tawny Eages would not interbreed because of their ecological and behavioural differences. In summary, Steppe Eagles and Tawny Eagles differ in the following taxonomic characters: morphological (plumage, gape structure, and hallux dimorphism), ecological (food and breeding habitat), and etho- logical (hunting, social, and migratory behaviours). Combining them was based solely on superficial similarities. Steppe Eagles and Tawny Eagles should be considered separate species, A. nipalensis and A. rapax. Acknowledgements I thank the curators and collection managers at the American Museum of Natural History, Bombay Natural History Society, British Museum (Natural History), Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, and U.S. National Museum of Natural History for permission and assistance in examining specimens. The following are thanked for providing helpful comments on earlier drafts: D. Amadon, R. Banks, R. K. Brooke, and A. Kemp. References: Ali, S. & Ripley, S. D. 1978. Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan. Vol. 1. Oxford University Press. Amadon, D. 1982. The genera of booted eagles: Aquila and relatives. 7. Yamashina Inst. Orn. 14: 108-121. Amadon, D. & Bull, J. 1988. Hawks and owls of the world: a distributional and taxonomic list. Proc. West. Found. Vert. Zool. 3, no. 4. Baker, E. C.S. 1928. The Fauna of British India. Vol. 5. Taylor & Forbes, London. Biggs, R. & Biggs, H. 1978. Comparative portraits of Steppe and Tawny Eagles. Bokmakierie 30: 77. Brooke, R. K., Grobler, J. H., Irwin, M. P. S. & Steyn, P. 1972. A study of the migratory eagles Aquila nipalensis and A. pomarina (Aves: Accipitridae) in southern Africa, with comparative notes on other large raptors. Occ. Pap. Nat. Mus. Rhodesia B5: 61-114. Brown, L. H. & Amadon, D. 1968. Eagles, Hawks, and Falcons of the World. Country Life Books, London. Brown, L. H., Urban, E. K. & Newman, K. N. 1982. The Birds of Africa. Vol. 1. Academic Press. Christensen, S., Lou, O., Muller, M. & Wohlmuth, H. 1981. The spring migration of raptors in southern Israel and Sinai. Sandgrouse 3: 1—42. W.S. Clark 157 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Clancey, P. A. 1966. The avian superspecies of the South African fauna. Ostrich, Suppl. 6: 13-40. Cramp, S. & Simmons, K. E. L. 1980. The Birds of the Western Palearctic. Vol. 2. Oxford University Press. Dementiev, G. D. & Gladkow, N. A. 1966. Birds of the Soviet Union. Nat. Tech. Info. Serv., Washington. Dowsett, R. J. & Dowsett-Lemaire, F. 1980. The systematic status of some Zambian birds. Gerfaut 70: 151-199. Forsman, D. 1981. (Moult sequence and ageing in White-tailed Eagle.) (In Swedish with English summary.) Luonnonvarainhoitotoimiston julkaisuja 3: 165-193. Glutz von Blotzheim, U. N., Bauer, K. M. & Bezzel, E. 1971. Handbuch der Végel Mritteleuropas. Akademische Verlag, Frankfurt. Grossman, M. L. & Hamlet, J. 1964. Birds of Prey of the World. Bonanza, New York. Irwin, M. P. S. & Benson, C. W. 1966. Notes on the birds of Zambia: Part II. Arnoldia 2: 1-23. Jankowitz, M. 1976. Tawny or Steppe Eagle? Bokmakierie 28: 64—65. Jollie, M. T. 1947. Plumage changes in the Golden Eagle. Auk 64: 549-576. Kozlova, E. V. 1975. [Birds of zonal steppe and deserts in Central Asia.] (In Russian.) Nauha, Leningrad. LeFranc, M. N., Jr. & Clark, W. S. 1983. Working Bibliography of the Golden Eagle and the Genus Aquila. NWF Sci. & Tech. ser. no. 7, Washington. McCollough, M. A. 1989. Molting sequence and aging of Bald Eagles. Wilson Bull. 101: 1-10. Meinertzhagen, R. 1951. Some relationships between African, Oriental, and Palaearctic genera and species, with a review of the genus Monticola. Ibis 93: 443—459. Meinertzhagen, R. 1954. Birds of Arabia. Oliver & Boyd, Edinburgh. Peters, J. L. 1931. Checklist of the Birds of the World. Vol. 1. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Porter, R. F., Willis, I., Christensen, S. & Nielsen, B. P. 1981. Flight Identification of European Raptors, 3rd ed. T. & A. D. Poyser, Calton. Semenov, N. M., Agafonov, A. G., Rezinko, D. S. & Rozhkov, A. A. 1962. [Dependence of distribution and number of Aquila nipalensis on density of sousliks in the steppe near Sarpinski Lakes.] (In Russian.) Voprosy Ecol. 6: 132-133. Sibley, G. C. & Monroe, B. L. 1990. Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World. Yale Univ. Press. Smeenk, C. 1974. Comparative-ecological studies of some East African birds of prey. Ardea 62: 2-84. Snow, D. W. (ed.) 1978. Atlas of Speciation in African Non-passerine Birds. British Museum (Natural History). Steyn, P. 1973. Observations on the Tawny Eagle. Ostrich 44: 1—22. Steyn, P. 1982. Birds of Prey of Southern Africa. David Philip, Cape Town. Stresemann, E. & Amadon, D. 1979. Falconiformes, in E. Mayr & G. W. Cotrell (eds), Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 1. (rev. ed.). Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Swann, H. K. 1931. A Monograph of the Birds of Prey (Order Accipitres). Part x. Wheldon & Wesley, London. Thiollay, J.-M. 1978. Les migrations de rapaces en Afrique occidentale: adaptations écologiques aux fluctuations saisonnieres de productions des écosystémes. Terre et Vie 32: 89-133. Tyurekhodzhaev, Z. M. 1977. [Aquila rapax and Falco cherrug in Uralsk district.] (In Russian.) Redkie I Ischezayustchie Zveri I Ptitsy Kazakstana. Alma Ata, pp. 240-243. Vaurie, C. 1965. The Birds of the Palearctic Fauna. Non-Passeriformes. Witherby. Address: William S. Clark, 4554 Shetland Green Road, Alexandria, VA 22312, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 E.O. Willis & Y. Oniki 158 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) A new Phylloscartes (Tyrannidae) from southeastern Brazil by Edwin O. Willis & Yoshika Oniki Received § August 1991 Small flycatchers of Phylloscartes and related genera are among the characteristic birds of woodlands and forests in eastern Brazil. Some, such as P. roquettez of caatinga woodlands in Minas Gerais and the recently described P. ceciliae of upland forest in northeastern Brazil, have been little known (Willis & Oniki 1991, Teixeira 1987). Here we describe a new form of the P. ventralis group from coastal sand-ridge woodlands (restinga) and nearby riverine zones of the Ribeira Valley, southeastern Sao Paulo State. The form occurs south along the coast at least to Joinville, Santa Catarina (specimen in Field Museum Natural History, Chicago, fide D. F. Stotz). From 5 to 10 July 1983, visiting the scrubby restinga or sand-ridge woodlands near Boqueirao, 13 km SW of the northeastern end of Ilha Comprida and opposite Iguape in southeastern Sao Paulo State, we noted anew call from small flycatchers that looked confusingly like several other species in the state. They had long bills and mottled faces like P. ventralis, a bird we knew well from the serras and interior plateau just northwest, but were so yellow on the face and underparts that we thought they might be Phyllomyias virescens, a species we also knew from Campos do Jordao and other serras of over 1200 m elevation to the north. We recently collected two calling birds from Ilha Comprida and, after examining these and other specimens, consider that the form merits specific status. Phylloscartes kronei sp. nov. Holotype. Universidade Estadual Paulista ‘‘Museu de Ciéncias da Natureza—Campus Rio Claro, Zoologia’, (MCN) no. 1, female from Jardim Europa, 25°01’'S, 47°54'W, near morro (hill) on Ilha Comprida opposite Cananéia, Sao Paulo State, Brazil, 3 June 1991, prepared by Yoshika Oniki. Paratype. MCN no. 2, male, same location, date, and preparator. Diagnosis. Like Phylloscartes ventralis but yellow instead of white on superciliary line, brighter yellow on facial pale areas and throat, buff tint across chest lacking and replaced by faint greenish mottling. Greener and less buff-green or brownish-green on crown and back than P. ventralis. Post-auricular crescent usually darker. Tail usually 3—5 mm shorter than wing, not 1-3 mm shorter as in P. ventralis. Bill averaging larger than in P. ventralis, although tarsus and wing chord similar. Distribution. Restinga (sand-ridge) woodlands on coast of southeastern Sao Paulo State, Brazil, from Ilha do Cardoso region north just past the mouth of the rio Ribeira, thence upriver to the side streams of the region between Juquia and Sete Barras at the southern base of the Sao Paulo E.O. Willis S Y. Ontki 159 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) interior plateau. Joinville, Santa Catarina and probably other coastal localities between there and Sao Paulo. Description of holotype. Yellowish olive-green above, with slight brownish tint on crown. Blackish lores, postocular streak, postauricular crescent, and yellow-mottled moustache. Wing coverts, remiges and tail blackish, the greater and median coverts with yellow tips forming two wing bars; tips of inner secondaries yellow on their outer webs; outer fringes of remiges yellowish, of rectrices greenish. Yellowish superciliary line and speckling on forehead, face below eye, and auricular area. Under- parts yellow, brighter on abdomen and paler on throat, clouded with very faint greenish mottling on flanks and breast to throat. Thighs barred yellow and greenish. In life, iris brown, tarsi and feet black, bill black except pale basal two-thirds of lower mandible. Measurements of holotype. Wing (chord) 50 mm, tail 45 mm, culmen from base 13.5 mm, tarsus 17 mm, weight (early morning) 7.8 g. Description of male (paratype). Like female but larger: wing 55.5 mm, tail48 mm, culmen 15.1 mm, tarsus 20 mm, weight (early morning) 8.8 g. Specimens examined. P. kronei—Sao Paulo: Jardim Europa 1 4, 1 2 (MCN); rest from Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de Sao Paulo (MZUSP): Iguape 1 sex? (MZUSP 107, collected 1898 by R. Krone); Tabatinguara 1 3; Costao dos Engenhos 2 3, 4 9; 1 sex?; Ilha Comprida 1 2; Barra do Icapara 1 J; Embu (rio Ribeira) 8 3 (one being 2 by measure- ments), 7 2, 6 sex?; Primeiro Morro 6 J, 7 9, 2 sex?; Porto Estrada 5 4, 1 9; Barra do ribeirao Onga Parda7 J (one 2 by measurement); On¢a Parda2 3 (one 2 by measurement), 1 sex?; Tamandua 2 3, 1 9; Ribeirao Fundo 1 3; Pogo Grande 2 J, 2 9; Barra do rio das Corujas 4 9, 4 sex? P. ventralis (all MZUSP)—Rio Grande do Sul: 1 dg, 1 9; Santa Catarina: Rio das Antas 2 9; Parana: Castro 3 ¢, 29, 1 sex?; Sao Paulo: Itarare 1 3g, 1 9, 1 sex?; Itapetininga 2 g; Avare (Fazenda Santa Magdalena) 1 2; Porto Cabral 1 2; Lins 1 3; Campo Grande 1 3; Primeiro Morro 1 9; Taquaral (Sao Miguel Arcanjo) 1 3; Pilar 1 ¢; Embura 1 3; Embu Guagu 1 9, 1 sex?; Ipiranga 3 J (one 9 by measurement); Itatiba 1 3; Jundiai 1 2; Taquaracu 1 3, 1 sex?; Terra Preta 2 ¢, 2 sex?; Alto da Serra 1 g, 4 sex?; Pinhalzinho 1 3; Boracéia 2 3, 1 9, 1 sex?; Serra da Bocaina 3 g, 2 2; Rio de Janeiro: Itatiaia 2 J, 3 9; Teresdpolis 2 3, 1 9; Minas Gerais: Maria da Fé, 1 9. Etymology. We name this species after Ricardo Krone of Iguape, who was the premier zoologist of the first agricultural boom of the Ribeira Valley at the turn of the century and collected the first specimen of the new form in 1898. That Hans von Berlepsch himself examined the specimen and identified it as P. ventralis seems worthy of note. Habitat and behaviour We found the new flycatcher regularly at woodland edges and in second growth or scrub woods all over the sandy coastal restingas of Ilha Comprida and, to the southwest, Ilha do Cardoso and the island of Cananéia. Northwestward, it was in similar low beach woodlands near Barra do Ribeira. We never found it on the nearby coastal hills and isolated serras, even 100 m from the coastal plain. However, in the Museu de Zoologia of the E.O. Willis & Y. Oniki 160 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) University of Sao Paulo there are specimens from the rio Ribeira flood- plain, from near Barra do Ribeira (Embu) past the northern base of the serra of Iguape (Costao dos Engenhos) to the base of the distant serra of Paranapiacaba (Fig. 1). Collections from even a little above he Ribeira/Juquia floodplains (Rocha) lack the species. Such areas are often in tall forest, apparently never cultivated during the peak of banana and other plantations at the time of Krone. We have not found the species in the restinga woods of Bertioga and Ubatuba, northeastern Sao Paulo, but have not investigated restingas south into Parana or northeast in the Juréia and Peruibe regions. Specimen labels of A. M. Olalla, collector of one Ilha Comprida and dozens of Ribeira Valley birds, often indicated second growth (capoeira) and that the bird was in pairs or small groups, as we also noted. It flits short distances to snap insects from leaves in the outer foliage of small trees and bushes, often with tail somewhat raised, much like similar small Phylloscartes everywhere. To us, it seems less active and less “‘flitty’’, less likely to lift its tail or sally to the upper surfaces of leaves, than P. ventralis of the mountains, which has received the name borboletinha (“‘little butterfly’’) in Rio Grande do Sul (Belton 1985). It usually perches on twigs just inside the outer foliage, looking about and hopping or flitting short distances until it sallies for prey. In the cooler early morning and late afternoon, it can appear on twigs outside the foliage or even atop small trees. It does not frequent tall, epiphyte-laden trees of forest zones. It often forms part of mixed flocks of small birds in the restinga, including similarly foraging but more woodland-interior Golden- crowned Warblers Basileuterus culicivorus. Small groups in December are probably families, as on 14 December 1984 on Ilha Comprida (Jardim Europa) Willis and J. Ragusa Neto found two full-sized pale-bellied young still fed by and following a pair. These young were silent, unlike the young of P. ventralis mentioned below. Pale-bellied specimens in MZUSP are from November and December, and some have small or weak (laterally compressed) beaks. The netted pair were attracted by playing back calls of one, perhaps the female; recordings were of a bird that stayed low and centrally as the other ranged up and down and widely about it, early in the morning. They flew silently but repeatedly to the recorder until the female and then the male were captured 100m from where recorded. The pairs seem to maintain territories along roads and in low woodlands and to be spaced 100-200 m from their neighbours, suggesting densities of one pair per hectare or so. Figure 1. Approximate locations for Phylloscartes kronei. A, Ilha do Cardoso; B, Jardim Europa (type locality); C, 3 km N Cananéia; D, Boqueirao; E, NE of the Barra do Icapara; F, NE of Barra do Ribeira. Collected (MZUSP) at Barra do Icapara and Embu (G), Costao dos Engenhos (H), Primeiro Morro (1), Porto Estrada (J), Barra do ribeirao Onga Parda (K), Onga Parda (L), Tamandua (M), Ribeirao Fundo (town at N), Poco Grande (O), Barra do rio das Corujas (P), Tabatinguara (Q); plus ‘‘Iguape’’. In Field Museum, Chicago, also from Joinville (Santa Catarina), Barra do rio Juquia, and Trapandé (Pasto Grande), fide D. F. Stotz. Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) 161 Y. Ontki E. O. Willis & DINIOWAK~O Ny be) E / 6 \ ob1iqy woes \ osopiod op oui) Jy SS = Aa & / ey) l olauouDD fa 1@) & 2s Ce 1 + ae ° ae ’ osz + / l l Tad [ en RY SS CN el) Ob OF 02 OS G=20 4 : Asopunog 40 poo Se pitas ou J : « I yNvavd 4 oO ¢ ooslanboe« NS ndy- Osanbiip fie donb) Y 4g e Ne 7 So buosidnoop Von ney | Be es GS osiaqiyO Sa-| ‘ "A WwAva30\ 4 Ad e GE ‘ DBUDJOd| g | 1nIidvO if We Be OS poop} | w | aXe ay YS O bee aes SONV Ion O1MNVd ovs paar (0410 pud) D4o0dD9;| ’ AG 6 9q!niad Opajol ap o1pad bd4s0idong e} olb : o8b oj1uog ondoa - fo) ob2 + = E. O. Willis S Y. Ontki 162 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) a Mea sie ae i ert ey Fo | Frequency in Kilohertz 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.6 Time in Seconds Figure 2. Feesee call of Phylloscartes kronei sp. n. (A, B) and similar plee-e of Myrmotherula unicolor (C). Copies of recordings are in the University of Florida and Universidade Estadual de Campinas (SP) sound libraries. Voice The frequently repeated call (Fig. 2), a short feesee or plea rather like the call of Myrmotherula unicolor (Formicariidae), is unlike any other flycatcher in Sao Paulo. The twittering and rapid little song, rather like several other small flycatchers, Willis registered as sit-it-it-it-it-7t-it- it-it-it-sitit-sitit on 10 July 1983. In flight, there is sometimes a noisy short flutter of wings, as in several other small flycatchers, including P. ventralis. P. ventralis repeatedly calls a faint tic, at times double or triple, as noted by Belton (1985: 38). Belton also mentions two types of songs. The young (Itapetininga, 19 December 1986) call, twice per second, a note like the alarm call of Rufous-collared Sparrows Zonotrichia capensis. P. virescens trill or rattle and gives a twittery song with several high notes just before the end, as Belton (1985: 18) describes for Rio Grande do Sul. Geographic overlap This lowland bird is not known to overlap with highland P. ventralis, except that one September bird from Primeiro Morro (MZUSP 48476) seems to be P. ventralis while the rest are P. kronez. It seems likely that the single P. ventralis was a wintering bird or wanderer. The ranges of the two E.O. Willis S Y. Ontki 163 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) TABLE 1 Measurements of Phylloscartes of the ventralis group Males Females P. ventralis P. kroneit P. ventralis P. krone n mean _ s.d. n mean. s.d. mn mean_ s.d. n mean_§ s.d. Tarsus 30 194 0.8 33 19.4 OL6 2 Oe aS e4 seen 2 egos TONS Wing DO DA eee ee Ope eo, LES Oa 4 O10) m2 ALO eS Tail 302522705 2453 849.6 AVA SNS PATA SES A IDOE LEDS SES e sae 3128 Culmen? SO m1S29% v0'65 4. 88146 OLS OLE 2185p) OrSs¢pi225 ped 328) 91074 Bill width? 30 Ryall PO) i Seay eer eet Oi do) SO ORD cany2pL 3.4 a OU: Bill height’ 24 SiO i OM ihe Sell 0.1 19 SHO ORs Salina Owe *From skull. All measurements exclude birds that seemed mis-sexed (see Specimens examined) ®At anterior end of nares. seem to be separated by tall lower montane Atlantic coastal forests on the lower slopes of the coastal serras. Measurements ‘Table 1 shows that males are larger than females in both P. ventralis and P. kronei. Wing and tarsus measurements are similar in both forms, but the tail is significantly shorter in both sexes of P. krone: (P< 0.01, t-tests), about 4mm shorter than the wing rather than 1 mm shorter as in P. ventralis. The bill of P. kronez is slightly but significantly larger (P<0.03, t-tests) in all dimensions, except for height in females. The larger bill and shorter tail may be related to its less aerial foraging, under rather than over leaves, for along tail may help P. ventralis turn more quickly in aerial chases and a smaller bill be better in aerial snapping than in striking at prey under leaves, where a larger bill might help P. krone (as in the leaf- striking genus Todirostrum). We would expect a bird in the hot, sunny lowlands to forage less on the outside of foliage than a bird in the cool, mist-shrouded uplands. However, foraging of the two forms should be studied in detail. Taxonomic status ‘The new bird is very close to upland P. ventralis except in voice, tail and bill, yellow face and underparts, and in lacking brown-buff tones on chest and back. We thought there might be some intermediate Ribeira birds in the MZUSP collections on our first visits, under artificial light, but a later visit on a sunny afternoon allowed all specimens to be separated. P. ceciliae of northeastern Brazil is probably a pale form of the ventralis group, judging by its behaviour and mottled face, not a relative of P. difficilis. It differs in plumage and voice (Willis, recordings) from P. krone. The relationship between the restinga tanager Tangara peruviana and upland woodland T. preciosa is very similar to that between P. ventralis and P. kronei in Sao Paulo. In some books these tanagers are considered species (Ridgely & Tudor 1990), in others subspecies (Sick 1985). E.O. Willis S Y. Oniki 164 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Another similar case is Cnemotriccus f. fuscatus of restinga and Ribeira woods versus planalto C. f. bimaculatus, possibly a separate species (Belton 1985) and seemingly different in voice (Willis, pers. obs.). In the case of the hummingbird Amazilia versicolor, the coastal form (brevirostris) in Sao Paulo is white from throat to belly, the upland form green-spangled, while intermediate birds come from the serra just above the rio Ipiranga (MZUSP specimens). We suspect that in these groups, as in the P. ventralis group a woodland bird may have been separated into coastal and interior populations by the humid and tall coastal lower montane and cloud forests. Songs differ in the upland A. v. versicolor and lowland A. v. brevirostris. Hummingbird songs are known to vary locally, as in many songbirds, in which birds learn their songs and may show local dialects. Flycatchers apparently have innate songs (Kroodsma 1984) and rarely show dialects, although Lanyon (1978) records some cases in Myzarchus (swainsont, for instance). He tested the reactions of one group to playback songs of the other. If birds reacted to both song types in areas of parapatry, he considered the birds to be conspecific. We are uncertain, however, what reaction to another song type represents. If it is a reaction to a territorial competitor (interspecific territoriality), it may be related to food compe- tition rather than to the possibility of an extra-pair copulation (EPC). Gene exchange between two populations is not necessarily shown by reaction to songs. Reactions by P. krone: and P. ventralis to recorded songs or calls might be interesting, however. We conclude that P. kronez is likely to be a separate species, based on our experience with the remarkably similar plumages but dissimilar voices in Phylloscartes flycatchers. A detailed study of biochemistry and of Ribeira Valley populations, to determine if there is hybridization, might resolve the question of subspecific versus specific status. In cases of limited hybridization or secondary intergradation, recent tendencies have been to treat the forms concerned as separate species, but ‘regional polymorphisms’ have been suggested where mixed pairs occur in zones of local sympatry or parapatry in such cases as Basileuterus culicivorus| hypoleucus. Conservation The limited range of P. kronez, especially in view of the high demand for beach-front property in Sao Paulo southward, gives ample reason for concern, whether it is a species or just a well-marked subspecies. With the building of a bridge, Ilha Comprida has become riddled with roads for proposed developments, of the kind that are destroying restinga zones to the north. Ilha do Cardoso is protected but is mostly a serra, with little restinga woodland. The Ribeira Valley is rapidly losing forests and even second growth. P. kronei may occur in the protected Juréia Park to the northeast or in protected areas to the south, but this needs study. Loss of the southwestern 30km of Ilha Comprida to development would be a considerable setback to P. kronei and to remnants of local populations of the endangered parrot Amazona brasiliensis. Illegal capture of the latter, via roads, has reduced its populations there in recent years. Tangara peruviana depends on restinga woodland and is E. O. Willis & Y. Ontki 165 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) also endangered, while a new subspecies of Aramides cajanea is being described from nearby mangroves by D. F. Stotz. Local subspecies of Amazilia versicolor, A. fimbriata and Cnemotriccus fuscatus occupy the restinga edges. Northward in Rio de Janeiro, the rare antbird Formicivora melanonotus and new subspecies of F.. serrana live in restingas (Pacheco 1988, Gonzaga & Pacheco 1990). We suggest that it is time for serious discussion of restinga faunas and floras in public and in congresses, to restrain beach development. We suggest that the new species be called Restinga Tyrannulet in English (maria-da-restinga in Portuguese) to emphasize the conservation problem involved. Acknowledgements The Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPq) and Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo financed studies. D. F. Stotz helped with suggestions, specimens in Chicago, and his experiences with the genus. We made sonagrams at J. W. Hardy’s laboratory at the University of Florida, Gainesville, U.S.A. References: Belton, W. 1985. Birds of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Part 2. Formicariidae through Corvidae. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. 180: 1-242. Gonzaga, L. P. & Pacheco, J. F. 1990. Two new subspecies of Formicivora serrana (Hellmayr) from southeastern Brazil, and notes on the type locality of Formicivora deluzae Méneéetriés. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 187-193. Kroodsma, D. E. 1984. Songs of the Alder Flycatcher (Empidonax alnorum) and Willow Flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) are innate. Auk 101: 13-24. Lanyon, W. E. 1978. Revision of the Myzarchus flycatchers of South America. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist.161: 429-627. Pacheco, F. 1988. Black-hooded Antwren Formicivora (Myrmotherula) erythronotos rediscovered in Brazil. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 108: 179-182. Ridgely, R. S. & Tudor, G. 1990. The Birds of South Amercia. Volume 1. University of Texas Press. Sick, H. 1985. Ornitologia Brasileira, uma Introdugdao. Vols 1 and 2. Editora Universidade de Brasilia, Brasilia. Teixeira, D. M. 1987. A new tyrannulet (Phylloscartes) from northeastern Brazil. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 37-41. Willis, E. O. & Oniki, Y. 1991. Avifaunal transects across the open zones of northern Minas Gerais. Ararajuba 2: 41-58. Address: Edwin O. Willis and Yoshika Oniki, Depto. Zoologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, C. P. 199, 13.500 Rio Claro, SP, Brazil. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 N. Krabbe 166 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) A new subspecies of the Slender-billed Miner Geositta tenuirostris (Furnariidae) from Ecuador by Niels Krabbe Received 15 August 1991 The Slender-billed Miner Geositta tenuirostris is confined to the Andes, where it was known from 'Tucuman province, northwestern Argentina, to Cajamarca department, western Peru. It has been found at altitudes of 2500-4600 m, but mainly occurs on the slopes at the edge of the highlands, at 3000-4000 m. Here it frequents semi-humid country and prefers gently sloping ground with very short grass or matted vegetation, interspersed with patches of bare soil (including small potato fields), and low banks that are used for nesting. Several small areas in the Ecuadorean Andes seem to represent suitable habitat, but the species had never been recorded north of the north Peru low. It was therefore a surprise to find the species on 7 August 1990 on the slopes of Volcan Iliniza in the northern half of Ecuador, almost 1000 km north of the previously known range of the species (and the genus). ‘wo specimens were collected and appear to represent a new subspecies: Geositta tenuirostris kalimayae subsp. nov. Type. Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, no. 80062, adult female, province of Cotopaxi, slope on northwestern side of Planadas de Guintza, highest point of new road to Sigchos (00°44'S, 78°45'W), elevation 3350 m; collected by N. Krabbe 7 August 1990. Cotype Museo Ecuatoreano de Ciencias Naturales, Quito, no. 5796, adult male, apparently the mate of the type. Description. (Capitalised colour names from Ridgway 1912.) Crown, mantle, back, rump, and upper tail-coverts Drab. Wing coverts Bister edged Clay Color. Tertials between Clove Brown and Sepia, edged Pinkish Buff, Tawny along shafts, most so on inner webs. Remiges Tawny with dark markings that are between Clove Brown and Sepia. Outer (1st) remex wholly dark; 2nd—5th with increasing amounts of ‘Tawny at base and on inner webs to 15—20 mm from tips; 5th with outer web narrowly edged Tawny, 6th with 15mm wide dark tip and with Tawny wash to most of outer web; 7th—10th with a 10mm wide sub- terminal dark area; 11th with subterminal band somewhat reduced and only conspicuous as a spot 10 x 5mm around the shaft; 12th—16th with 2—3 mm wide dark band diagonally from around shaft 5 mm from the tip up along edge of outer web, ending 10mm from tip of wing coverts. Central (1st) rectrix Bister, pale and faded owing to wear along edges; 2nd Tawny basally on inner web to 10 mm from tip; 3rd Tawny with dark tip 10 mm wide; 4th with 1 mm wide Tawny tip on inner web, and witha dark subterminal band 6 mm wide; 5th similar to 4th, but the dark sub- terminal band only 3mm wide but continuously across the web; 6th N. Krabbe 167 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) TABLE 1 Measurements (mm) and weights (g) of Geositta tenuirostris Flattened Bill Bill wing Tail to skull to nostrils Weight G. t. kalimayae 3 107 57 29 19.0 30 2 101.5 54 28.5 18.2 31 G. t. tenutirostris eYei 110.5 61.0 31.0 217, 34.3 (108-113) (57-66) (28.7-33) (20.5—24) (29-42.5) ele) 109.0 57.0 B01 PA 33:2 (104-113) (53-60). (29°4-33.5), -(20.2—22.2)" ~ “(32—35.5) Note. For G. t. tenuirostris, means and ranges are given. For all measurements, n=4; for weights, 7=7 for males, n=3 for females. rectrix with the outer 30 mm of outer web whitish, base and inner web Tawny with ill-defined dark subterminal band 1.5 mm wide from shaft to edge of inner web, and a faint dusky wash down middle of inner web. Supercilium, mottling on headside, and underparts buffy white, breast- feathers edged Drab, giving a streaked effect. Under wing coverts Tawny. Iris dark brown; bill dark grey, basal part of underside of mandible flesh, gape yellow; feet plumbeous. Weight 30 g, light fat. Skull fully ossified. Brood patch present, but not much vascularised. Largest follicle 1.5 mm. Stomach: insect larvae and imago beetles. Wings 101.5, tail 54, tarsi 23, bill from skull 28.5, bill from anterior edge of nostrils 18.2 mm. Description of cotype. Identical to the type in colouration of plumage and soft parts. Weight 30 g, no fat. Skull fully ossified. Testes enlarged, 8 x 4mm. Stomach: insects (larvae and imagos). Wings 107, tail 57, tarsi 24, bill from skull 29, bill from anterior edge of nostrils 19.0 mm. Diagnosis. G. t. kalimayae differs from nominate tenuirostris by being smaller (Table 1) and greyer, averaging more streaked on the breast, and especially by having more extensive dark areas in wings and tail, with the subterminal dark band on the penultimate rectrix stretching across the entire feather, while it is reduced to a broken band, a tiny spot along the shaft, or completely absent in nominate tenuirostris. The outer rectrix has an almost complete narrow dark band near the tip and a dusky wash on parts of both webs in kalimayae, while this rectrix is completely uniform in most specimens of nominate tenuirostris, the exception being three specimens from Cajamarca, that all show a very slight dusky wash on this feather. These three specimens also show more extensive dark markings in the wings and on the penultimate rectrix than specimens from further south. One of them almost matches kalimayae in wing-pattern, and they are all intermediate in size with more southerly birds. Distribution. So far only known from the western side of Planadas de Guintza, where 3 or 4 pairs were easily observed (during strong winds) on 7 and 9 August 1990, at elevations ranging from 3350 to 3500 m. Two subsequent searches for the species at the same site on 17 October 1990 N. Krabbe 168 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) and 3 January 1991 proved negative, either because there was no wind and the birds thus preferred to walk away, or because the birds were elsewhere at the time. Searches in apparently suitable habitat on 18 August 1990 along the Ambato-Guaranda road on the north slope of Volcan Chimborazo, and 3 January 1991 along the Latacunga-Zumbahua road likewise proved negative, although the species may occur at these latter sites in such low density as to go undetected. The low and humid paramos of southern Ecuador presently form an effective barrier between the ranges of tenuirostris and kalimayae. Etymology. | take pleasure in naming this bird after my at the time 4-year-old daughter Kalimaya, whose presence during the second visit to the type-locality may have prevented attacks by the local indians. Habitat. On7 and 9 August 1990 the type locality was very windy, and dust and sand from Planadas de Guintza, a pumice flat, had accumulated as dunes in places just behind the ridges of the hills to the west and northwest of the plain. The higher ridges had bunch grass (that was being burnt at the time), but at the pass there were fields with potato and Rumex acetosella as well as large areas matted with Lachemilla. The miners were seen on the matted slopes, and on the fields and bare patches. Here they shared the habitat with Metriopelia melanoptera, Muscisaxicola maculirostris, Anthus bogotensis and Phrygilus unicolor, all widespread, but confined to the high Andes. In bunch grass areas nearby Asthenes wyatti was noted, and in a row of bushes growing up the slope Turdus fuscater, Diglossa humeralis and Zonotrichia capensis occurred, also all widespread high Andean taxa. Natural history. ‘Typically for the species, it was found in pairs, flew high and far when flushed, and was fairly shy. Some singing was heard while the birds were swooping low over the slopes. Normally it rises to considerable heights during the nuptial flight, but this may have been inhibited by the strong winds. Calls were given by all birds, both during take-off and upon and just after landing. Three or four pairs were seen in two areas with altogether 1 km? of suitable habitat. The only known nest of the species was in a hole in a bank (Salvador et al. 1984), but it was not known whether it was dug by the bird itself, or by a Notiochelidon cyanoleuca or an earthcreeper (Upucerthia) (T. Narosky, pers. comm.). Although it was neither found at the type-locality of G. t. Ralimayae nor recorded on the adjacent slope of Volcan Iliniza, Cinclodes excelsior, which digs its own tunnels, is common on the nearby mountains Corazon, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo. Acknowledgements For good companionship in the field I thank J. Live, P. Prado, and M. Yacelga (first visit), A. Holst and K. Krabbe (second visit), and Fernando and Francisco Sornoza (third visit). The field work was generously funded by H.K.H. Kronprins Frederiks Fond and Dr. Boje Benzons Fond, Zoological Museum of Copenhagen. I am grateful to J. V. Remsen, Louisiana State University, for sending me the weights of their specimens, and to E. R. Blake, Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, for loans of their specimens. J. Fjeldsa kindly commented on the manuscript. References: Ridgway, R. 1912. Color Standards and Color Nomenclature. Published by the author, Washington, D.C. N. Krabbe 169 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Salvador, A., Narosky, S. & Fraga, R. M. 1984. Descripcion del nido y los huevos de la Caminera Pico Largo (Geositta tenuirostris) (AVES: FURNARIIDAE). Hist. Nat. (Corrientes, Argentina) 25: 224. Address: Niels Krabbe, Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, Universitets- parken 15, DK-2100 Copenhagen 0, Denmark. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Notes on distribution and natural history of some poorly known Ecuadorean birds by Niels Krabbe Received 15 August 1991 From July 1990 to May 1991, during my first of four years of ornitho- logical field work in Ecuador, work primarily aimed at mapping the distribution of high Andean birds, several observations worth publishing separately from the main report were made. Some of these are described below. Specimens are deposited in Museo Ecuatoriano de Ciencias Naturales (MECN), Quito, Zoological Museum University of Copenhagen (ZMUC), and Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia (ANSP). Tape-recordings are deposited at the British Library of Natural Sounds, London, and Bioakustisk Laboratorium, University of Arhus, Denmark. NOBLE SNIPE Gallinago nobilis Noble Snipe were recorded on Paramo El Angel on two occasions in December 1990 (and one bird collected for identification), and on the paramo south of Volcan Cotopaxi in Janury 1991. The vocalizations heard from the rush beds in Laguna del Limpio on Volcan Cotopaxi on 9 October 1983 at a site where several Noble Snipe had just landed, were in fact partly referable to the song of a Lesser Rail Rallus limicola aequatorialis, and partly to what seems to be a call given from the ground by the (female ?) Noble Snipe, and was not, as believed then, a lek song of the Noble Snipe (contra Fjeldsa & Krabbe 1990: 178). A winnowing resembling that of the Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago was emitted by Noble Snipe during roding in wide circles at dusk and early dawn. M. Hall informs me (verbally 1991) that in moonlight it may rode during most of the night. Synchronous with the winnowing, a loud chipping, much like that given by G. gallinago and G. jamesoni, was given from the ground, presumably by the female Noble Snipe. The only other vocalization recorded from the Noble Snipe was the rasping call invariably given upon take-off, both day and night. IMPERIAL SNIPE Gallinago imperialis ‘Two roding birds were tape-recorded and seen on the west slope of Loma Yanayacu on the north slope of Volcan Pichincha at dusk (18.25— 19.00) on 17 and 19 December 1990, and (one bird only) again on 10 N. Krabbe 170 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) January and 17 March 1991. The bird perched for 10—60s between the nuptial flights, and once the perch was seen to be a thick branch of a Polylepis tree 3m above the ground. The distance between the perches used was some 500 m, and the perches roughly formed a 700 m diameter circle. The chachalaca-like song was given continuously during the direct flight between the trees and became slow grunts while the bird was perched. The song was sometimes terminated with a short (5-10 m), almost vertical dive in the middle of the territory, and a simultaneous rush of air could be heard. Roding was noted in clear weather as well as in fog and heavy rain. The elevation was 3600 to 3700m, the highest recorded for the species, which was hitherto known from 2750 to 3500 m at five localities in Peru and two “‘Bogota’”’ specimens of unknown origin. An undocumented sighting (D. Platt 1988: Bird-list for Cajanuma, unpublished) is from Parque Nacional Podocarpus, Loja, southeastern Ecuador, from where there is also a sighting of a roding bird by M. Pearman at dusk and dawn in December 1990 (M. Pearman in litt. 1991). The bird’s barred back was seen wellon the perch, its broad-winged, short- tailed, woodcock-like silhouette in flight, and on the basis of the tape- recordings the identification was further verified by T. A. Parker, who is familiar with the song from Peru. The species’ nocturnal habits and in- accessible habitat may explain the paucity of records, and it may in fact inhabit most humid forest/humid paramo ecotones in the tropical Andes. ANDEAN POTOO Nyctibius maculosus A mating pair of this poorly known species was observed, and the song and calls tape-recorded, on an occasionally moonlit night in wet forest in Cordillera de Huacamayos in southern Napo province, at an elevation of 2100 m, on 2 September 1990. The male used three song posts some 700 m apart, and sang every 8 to 10 s (song described in Schulenberg et al. 1984) between showers of rain, for 2—3 minutes at a time, throughout the night. On two occasions a different call (presumably given by the female) lasting 2—3s and of three short, slightly descending notes was heard, whereupon the female landed on one of the male’s empty song posts. Within seconds the male arrived, and a short mating followed. Although distributed in the Andes from Venezuela to Bolivia, there are few records of the species, which remains virtually unknown. VIRIDIAN METALTAIL Metallura williami One was seen and another netted and a blood sample taken before the bird’s release, at 00°39’N, 77°34’'W on Paramo El Angel, 3350 m, Carchi province, on 14 November 1990. These represent the first records from the western Andes of Ecuador. STREAK-CAPPED TREEHUNTER Thripadectes virgaticeps One was collected 9 km west of Pinas, El Oro province, c. 900 m, on 14 April 1991. The species was not recorded here by Robbins & Ridgely (1991), who reported the Uniform Treehunter T. zgnobilis fairly common at this site. Previous records from western Ecuador are from western Carchi province (specimen in MECN) and from Pichincha province (Chapman 1926), the latter being some 400 km to the north of the El Oro site. N. Krabbe IUzAll Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) WATKINS’ ANTPITTA Grallaria watkinsi Although correctly described as a full species (Chapman 1919), G. watkinsi was treated as a subspecies of G. ruficapilla by Peters (1951). As already discovered in January 1988 by Paul Greenfield (pers. comm. 1990) the song of G. watkinsi differs distinctly from that of G. ruficapilla, and on 6 February 1991 above Sozoranga at 1750 m, and on 13 April 1991 at Catacocha, both in Loja province, the two species were tape-recorded simultaneously, which proves sympatry. According to B. Best (pers. comm. 1991) both species can also be heard on the lower Pacific slope of Celica mts. At all three sites, however, G. watkinsi inhabits deciduous scrub and forest, and G. ruficapilla humid forest and scrub. At Catacocha a tongue of acacia-like scrub extended a little way into the humid forest, and the two species sang no more than 10 m apart. No intermediate song- types were heard at either locality. On 27 December 1990 G. watkinsi was seen and tape-recorded along Rio Ayampe in the coastal range on the border of Manabi and Guayas provinces at an elevation of c. 20 m. This represents the first record from the coastal range. There are subsequent records and specimens (ANSP) from the same area at 400—750 m in the transition zone between dry and humid forest on Cerro San Sebastian (T. A. Parker and R. S. Ridgely zm litt. 1991). NARINO TAPACULO Scytalopus vicinior This species, hitherto only known from 1600 to 1800 m at the type- locality in western Narino, and from 1950 m on the Pacific slope in Valle, Colombia, was tape-recorded by P. Coopmans near Mindo, at 1700 m, on the northwestern slope of Volcan Pichincha in July 1990. Subsequently the author collected 10 specimens at the same site and an additional two specimens on the Pacific slope of Carchi province at an elevation of 2350 m (and also tape-recorded the species at 1800 m in Cordillera de ‘Toisan in extreme western Imbabura province). Their vocalizations were matched by recordings (by D. Willis and F. Lambert) from the type- locality of vicinior (where only one species of Scytalopus was noted to be present). These were thought to represent the first recordings of the species’ vocalizations. However, the tape-recordings of birds, some of which were collected, on the Pacific slope of Carchi province at 1650 to 1775 m in August 1988 (by M. Robbins) also prove to be of this species. My detailed studies in 1990—91 show that Ecuadorean highland birds treated under Narino Tapaculo by Fyjeldsa & Krabbe (1990: 432, sonagrams from Pichincha) are referable to the Brown-rumped Tapaculo Scytalopus latebricola spillmanni, while most Ecuadorean birds treated by them under Brown-rumped Tapaculo, spillmanni group (p. 435-6, sonagrams from southeastern Ecuador) represent a new species soon to be described. ANDEAN TAPACULO Scytalopus magellanicus opacus Reliable records of the Andean Tapaculo in Ecuador are from the eastern Andes (Fjeldsa & Krabbe 1990). Five males were collected at three localities on Paramo El] Angel in western Carchi province at elevations ranging from 3400 to 3950 m, on 16 and 18 November 1990. The species was also heard singing on the Colombian side of the border. These represent the first records of the species in the western Andes. N. Krabbe 172 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) BUFF-THROATED TODY-TYRANT Hemitriccus rufigularis One was tape-recorded and collected (specimen in MECN, Quito) at 1300 m on a ridge crest 100 m above the Rio Hollin road, c. 10 km from the turnoff from the Baeza-Tena road, on the southern slope of Cordillera de Guacamayos in southern Napo province on 2 September 1990. After playback of its call the bird was attracted and perched c. 8m up in the lower canopy of tall trees on a ridgecrest in primary humid forest. Another was tape-recorded under very similar conditions at 1300 m on the northern flank of Pan de Azucar, further north in Napo province, on 2 and 3 November 1990. These records extend the species’ range some 300 km northwards, and it may range further north into Colombia. Previous Ecuadorean records are from 1300 m, east of Guadeloupe, on the western base of Cordillera de Cutuct in Morona-Santiago province, where two or more were seen and heard by R. S. Ridgely and R. A. Rowlett, and tape-recorded by the latter on 4 August 1979 (R. S. Ridgely in litt.), and from 1400m, at Pachicutza, western slope of central Cordillera del Condor in Zamora-Chinchipe province, where one speci- men (in WF VZ, Los Angeles) was collected by M. Marin on 27 July 1989 (R.S. Ridgely zn litt.). ORANGE-CRESTED FLYCATCHER M yiophobus phoenicomitra In western Ecuador this species was hitherto only known south to Pichincha province (R. S. Ridgely im litt.). One was collected 9 km west of Pinas, El Oro province, at an elevation of 900m, on 15 April 1991. ‘The species was not recorded there by Robbins & Ridgely (1991). The record represents a 400km southward range extension in western Ecuador. SULPHUR-BELLIED TYRANNULET Mecocerculus minor The species was previously known from scattered localities along the eastern slope of the Andes from Venezuela to central Peru. Two individ- uals, both first found and identified by J. Sterling, were tape-recorded and observed in outer leaves of young trees in a selectively logged humid forest on a ridgetop at 2500 m on the Pacific slope in Carchi province from 19 to 22 November 1990. One bird was collected (MECN), and does not differ from east Ecuadorean birds in plumage or vocalizations. Its calls include a slightly descending, somewhat nasal week week week week, lasting about 1 s and sometimes terminated with a slightly higher-pitched week after a short pause, as well asa more commonly heard, rapid weeka or wedup of a similar quality. This lack of differentiation as well as the previous lack of records from the western Andes suggest the crossing of the Andes to be a holocene event, perhaps even very recent, following the deforestation, as the species prefers young trees. HIGHLAND ELAENIA Elaenia obscura There are three unpublished specimens of this form in MCZ (nos. 329817-8-9), taken by D. Norton at Loja, 2150m, Loja province on 27-28 July 1965 (R. S. Ridgely in litt.). One (MECN) was taken by the author at the edge of a small forest at 2300 m 1 km east of Cariamanga in southern Loja province on 9 April 1991. N. Krabbe 173 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) CHIGUANCO THRUSH Turdus chiguanco This species was known north to the vicinity of Riobamba, Chimborazo province (Fjeldsa & Krabbe 1991). It was found to be fairly common and one specimen (ANSP) was taken on the slopes of Volcan Iliniza in western Cotopazi at 00°55’S, 78°43’W, 3200 m, on 3 January 1991. There are several recent sight records of a single bird at Tumbaco (c 2100 m) near Quito in 1989 and 1990 (P. Greenfield pers. comm.), where the species had not been recorded by the many observers visiting this locality previously, and it most likely represents a recent range extension into the Rio Guayllabamba valley, which, according to locals, has been extensively deforested in this century. BAND-TAILED SEEDEATER Catamenia analis Two single birds were seen on the slope of Rio Leones valley below Ona on the El Oro/Azuay border on 14 February 1991. Though its occurrence was suspected (R. S. Ridgely zn litt.) there are no previously published records of the species from southern Ecuador. They appear to be of the subspecies soderstromi (with a conspicuous white wing-speculum and with primaries edged white), which is the form found in northern Ecuador. ANDEAN SISKIN Carduelis spinescens Although known from Paramo FE] Angel, Carchi province, since January 1982, when photographed by P. Greenfield (R. S. Ridgely in litt.), no specimens had been taken in Ecuador. One (now in MECN) was collected by the author on the same paramo at 00°43/N, 77°47'W, 3400 m, on 16 November 1990. It was the commonest bird there with c. 30 individuals observed near our camp. SAFFRON SISKIN Carduelis siemiradskit Two flocks, of 5 to 6 individuals, were observed and tape-recorded along Rio Ayampe in the coastal range on the border of Manabi and Guayas provinces, at 01°40’S, 80°45’W, elevation c. 50m, on 27 December 1990. In 1991 ANSP personnel found it fairly common here, mostly in deciduous woodland at 300-600 m, where one male (ANSP 183551) was taken on 18 January, less commonly up to 800 m in humid mossy forest on nearby Cerro Sebastian; they found the species most in evidence in January, and hardly singing in August (R. 5. Ridgely i litt.). The species is known from very few localities, the nearest being Balzar mountains, Manabi province at c. 00°55’S, 79° 55’ W, where one was taken by Hkngworth, a native collector in the service Sr C. Buckley, late last century (specimen in British Museum) and ‘‘Cemento Nacional’’, Guayas province, at 02°09’S, 80°02’W (several sightings since first seen here by R. S. Ridgely in July 1978: in litt. 1991). Acknowledgements For good assistance and companionship in the field I thank Jorge Live (Huacamayos), Milton Yacelga(Imbabura), Francisco and Fernando Sornoza M. (Cotopaxi), John Sterling (Carchi), Aspen Mayers (Carchi, Pichincha), Michael Kessler (Ona), Brinley and Amanda Best (Sozoranga), as well as Frank Lambert (Sozoranga, Pichincha), Chris Balchin, Jeff Blincow, Simon Cook, Nigel Goodgame and Steven Greenfield (Pichincha). I thank P. Greenfield, R. S. Ridgely, M. B. Robbins, B. Best, P. Coopmans, F. Lambert, J. Sterling S.L. Olson 174 Bull, B.O.C, 1992 112(3) and M. Hall for useful information, and J. Fjeldsa for comments on the manuscript. I am grateful to the Museo de Ciencias Naturales, Quito, for support, and to Ministerio de Agricultura, Quito, for issuing the necessary permits. The work was generously funded by H. K. H. Kronprins Frederiks fond, and Dr. Boje Benzons fond, Zoological Museum of Copenhagen, Denmark. References: Chapman, F. M. 1919. Descriptions of proposed new birds from Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and Colombia. Proc. Biol. Soc. Washington 32: 253-268. Chapman, F. M. 1926. The distribution of bird-life in Ecuador. Bull. Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. 55 Fjeldsa, J. 1990. Systematic relations of an assembly of allopatric rails from western South America (Aves: Rallidae). Steenstrupia 16: 109-116. Fjeldsa, J. & Krabbe, N. 1990. Birds of the High Andes. Apollo Books, Svendborg, Denmark. Peters, J. L. 1951. Check-list of Birds of the World. Vol. 7. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Robbins, M. B. & Ridgely R. S. 1990. The avifauna of an upper tropical cloud forest in southwestern Ecuador. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 142: 59-71. Schulenberg, T. S., Allen, S. E. Stotz, D. F. & Wiedenfeld, D. A. 1984. Distributional records from the Cordillera Yanachaga, central Peru. Gerfaut 74: 57—70. Address: Niels Krabbe, Zoological Museum, University of Copenhagen, Universitets- parken 15, DK-2100 Copenhagen @, Denmark. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Requiescat for Tricholimnas conditictus, a rail that never was by Storrs L. Olson Received 22 August 1991 An unfortunate number of birds were described from a single specimen only, never to be found again. A prevalent trend in ornithology has been to discount and ignore unique types, yet with proper evaluation of their morphology, in combination with careful review of the circumstances of their acquisition, the species founded on them can often be resurrected, adding to our knowledge of previous avian diversity (e.g. Olson 1986a,b, Graves & Olson 1987, James et al. 1989, Olson et al. 1989). A discounted species consigned to oblivion for the past 40 years is the presumably flightless rail Tricholimnas conditicius Peters & Griscom, 1928. Recently, however, Walters (1987), on the basis of circumstantial historical evidence, concluded that this was a validly described species. ‘To attempt to resolve the issue, I studied both the unique holotype and additional historical evidence, but with opposite result, as I have concluded that T. conditicius is not, in fact, a valid species. Historical review Much in the original description and subsequent assessment of T. conditicius has been marred by errors of judgement, interpretation, or S.L. Olson 175 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) procedure, beginning with the spelling of the species’ name itself. There seems no justification for the orthography ‘‘conditicius’’, which is surely based on the Latin verb condo, hide (rather than the adjective conditus, meaning savory or seasoned), the actual word intended probably being conditivus, meaning laid away or preserved, which is certainly applicable to the holotype. Peters & Griscom (1928) described T. conditicius from a specimen skinned from alcohol that had been found ‘‘in the Museum of Compara- tive Zoology [MCZ] after a period of long oblivion. With it was a label: ‘Kingsmill Islands, 1861, Andrew Garrett, Collector’ ’’ (Greenway 1952: 1). Peters & Griscom (1928) established that Garrett had been on the island of Apaiang (=Abaiang) in the Kingsmill [=Gulbert] group in 1859, whence they assumed the rail had come, the date 1861 being surmised as that of the collection’s receipt at the museum. Peters & Griscom (1928:102) made no comparisons with Tricholimnas lafresnayanus of New Caledonia, the type of the genus, but only with Sclater’s (1870) description and Mathews’ (1928) plate of 7. sylvestris, the flightless “‘woodhen’ of Lord Howe Island, a species of which they said “‘there is no material available in this country with which to make an actual physical comparison’’. This is curious because the MCZ possesses a complete skeleton of 7. sylvestris (MCZ 363) that was purchased from E. Gerrard, Jr., and received 30 August 1878. It is still the only skeletal specimen of the species in any New World museum (Wood & Schnell 1986). Rather than making comparisons with this skeleton, Peters & Griscom published notes made by G. M. Allen comparing the body skeleton of T. conditicius with that of a King Rail Rallus elegans (presumably MCZ 3316, the trunk of a specimen collected in 1921, the only skeletal material of R. elegans in the MCZ collections). Why did Allen not compare the skeleton of T. conditicius with the specimen of T. sylvestris that had then been at Harvard for nearly 50 years? One possibility is that the latter was received in alcohol and was not prepared as a skeleton until after 1928. On the other hand, given the priorities of the day, it is more likely that an alcoholic specimen, unless badly damaged (and the skeleton is in excellent condition), would have been prepared as a skin. The failure of Peters, Griscom, or Allen to consult the MCZ specimen of T. sylvestris, whatever its manner of preservation in 1928, is an oversight that cannot now be explained. The body skeleton of the unique holotype of T. conditicius, incredible as it may seem, was not saved; at least it can no longer be found in the MCZ collections. Likewise, the stomach contents of the specimen (‘seeds of two species, the chitinous shell of a small beetle, and an entire harvest fly’’; Allen in Griscom & Peters 1928: 103) were also evidently discarded, although, as noted by Walters (1987), these might have helped to determine the geographical origin of the bird. Harvest fly is another term for a cicada (Homoptera) and cicadas are found on Lord Howe Island and in the Marshalls and Gilberts (R. Froeschner, pers comm.), so this fact does not help to resolve the origin of the specimen. Greenway (1952) discovered an unpublished communication from Garrett stating that on Apaiang: ‘“‘There is only one species of land bird S.L. Olson 176 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) and this I never saw but obtained one of its tail feathers which I send you. I think it is a species of Hawk.’’ Greenway could not find this feather but hypothesized that because migrant hawks had been reported from Palau, such a stray may have reached Apaiang. Amerson (1969: 229) has more plausibly suggested that this feather likely came from the widespread migrant cuckoo Urodynamis taitensis. Regardless, Garrett’s note provides conclusive evidence that the rail in question was not obtained on Apaiang. Greenway (1952) compared the type of TJ. conditicius with a series of T. sylvestris and found no differences other than slightly smaller size, which he attributed to immaturity, as Allen had stated that the skeleton indicated the specimen was obviously an immature. Greenway (p. 3) considered that ‘“‘the weight of evidence points to [the type of T. conditicius| having come from Lord Howe Id. It is probable that it found its way into Andrew Garrett’s collection by an exchange, or perhaps through the good offices of a whaling friend.’’? Greenway regarded T. conditicius as a probable synonym of T. sylvestris, and the species accordingly sank into oblivion. Recently, however, Walters (1987) revived the issue by reviewing Garrett’s itinerary and suggesting that the type of 7. conditicius could have been obtained on the island of Ebon in the southern Marshall group, where Garrett also landed. Although he did not examine the specimen, his review of documentary evidence led him to conclude that T. conditicius was a validly described species. The specimen evidence I examined the holotype of Tricholimnas conditicitus (MCZ 21943) and made comparisons directly with two specimens of T. sylvestris lent for the purpose (AMNH 545298, 545345). I later compared the entire large series of T. sylvestris at the American Museum of Natural History with colour photographs of the type of T. conditicius. The latter was diagnosed as being “‘similar to Tricholimnas sylvestris of Lord Howe Island but much smaller; wing coverts less conspicuously chestnut” (Peters & Griscom 1928: 102), but I could find absolutely no consistent differences in plumage. The size is small, and the proportions of the bill are somewhat different from adults of T. sylvestris, but are almost exactly duplicated by two immature birds of that species (AM NH 545297, 545318). One possible character that has never been mentioned is that the feet in the type of T. conditicius are orangish in colour whereas in most speci- mens of T. sylvestris they are a dark brownish leaden colour. There is some variation, however, and certain specimens have a more reddish or orangish cast to the feet. In one individual of 7. sylvestris (AMNH 545363) the feet were distinctly orangish, just as in the type of T. conditicius. Interestingly, this specimen had also been prepared from spirits. Thus, like Greenway, I was unable to find any morphological features by which Tricholimnas conditicius could be separated from T. sylvestris, at any level. S. L. Olson 177 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) The evidence against a Micronesian origin for T. conditicius To begin with, it is hardly conceivable that two flightless species could evolve independently on islands some 4500 km apart and show no morphological differentiation from one another. Secondly, Ebon atoll is nearly as poor a candidate to have been home to a large flightless rail in 1859 as was Apaiang. An overlooked early report on the natural history of Ebon is that of Rev. E. T. Doane (1861: 322), the ornithological portions of which are quoted here in full: This atoll is the home for a few varieties of birds. But in this feature of the island, the contrast is as wide between the “‘low coral”’ island and the ‘“‘high volcanic’? one—as between their natural features. The high islands of Micronesia are largely supplied with the feathery tribe,—but this atoll can claim only a few birds—and with two or three exceptions these are all water fowl. There are a few Columbidae, Carpophaga | Ducula] oceanica, which manage to elude the keen search of the natives. These birds are occasionally heard cooing away in the tops of some quite isolated bread-fruit tree. A Cuculus [doubtless Urodynamis taitensis| gives forth occasionally its sharp whistle—and these, with the addition of another land bird whose species I have not been able to learn—are all the feathery songsters this atoll can claim. The shores of the reef at low tide, and the bare rocks, are a little enlivened by the brown and white Heron. Small flocks of snipe (Scolopax) gather on the sand bars—or single individuals are running along the beach picking up food. An occasional plover (Charadrius) is to be seen. Sea swallows (Sterna stolida and Sterna minuta) are skimming the waters of the lagoon, or resting on the beach. A booby (Lula [sic = Sula]) now and then is seen sailing over the island. His home is unknown to the natives. His want of caution is clearly seen in the easy way a native will ascend a tree in which the bird is roosting, and with a slip-noose capture him. An interesting explanation of the origin of the single variety of the Cuculus is given by the natives—so skillful has this bird been in concealing its birth- place. As the natives find it only full grown they say that it is born and nourished in the clouds and falls to the earth of full size. [The Long-tailed Cuckoo is a migrant in Oceania that breeds only in New Zealand. | This appears to be a reasonably accurate and perceptive report. The unknown land bird mentioned is almost certainly the fruit dove Ptilinopus marshallianus coincidentally described by Peters & Griscom (1 928) i in the same paper as Tricholimnas conditicius from a single specimen, still unique, obtained on Ebon by the missionary B. G. Snow in “‘the late fifties or early sixties of the last century’’, but not forwarded to the MCZ until 1876 (Barbour in Peters & Griscom 1928: 99). Doane’s list adds considerably to the previously recorded native avifauna of Ebon, which according to Amerson (1969) consisted only of the Ptilinopus and the noddy Anous tenuirostris. The Reverends Doane and Pierson established a mission on Ebon in 1857 (U.S. Hydrographic Office, Bureau of S.L. Olson 178 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Navigation, 1870, Marshall Group, North Pacific Islands, 1:33 [original not seen|). Doane’s report was communicated from Ebon on 16 August 1860 and thus covered the period of Garrett’s visit in 1859. Had Garrett obtained a flightless rail on Ebon, either himself or through the missionaries, this fact would hardly have been unknown to Doane or have gone unmentioned by him. Greenway (1952) assumed that Garrett obtained the type of T. conditicius from another source, who in turn had obtained it from Lord Howe Island. However, I believe that the nature of the man and the supposed timing of acquisition of the specimen militate against any association between Andrew Garrett and T. conditicius. Greenway (1952), although acknowledging Garrett’s genius as a scientist, in referring to him as a dealer may have given an impression of Garrett as an indiscriminate accumulator of natural history objects for commerce. Although Garrett certainly sold specimens to support his collecting activities, he was, in fact, a dedicated marine biologist who made many serious contributions to the scientific literature of fishes and marine invertebrates (Thomas 1979, Clench 1979). He had little personal interest in birds, however. We must ask, therefore, why Garrett would have been involved in an exchange for a specimen of bird that he never bothered to call to the attention of any ornithologist. Garrett supposedly obtained the type of T. conditicius about 1850 and certainly prior to 1861—fully a decade before specimens of the Lord Howe Island woodhen, T. sylvestris, were obtained and formally described (see Bennett 1870, Sclater 1870). In reviewing some of the literature on the natural history of Lord Howe Island, it would appear that most, if not all, traffic in natural history specimens from Lord Howe was through naturalists in London via Sydney (e.g. Hindwood 1940, Iredale 1940). It makes no sense that Garrett, based then in Hawaii, could have obtained, during or shortly after his collecting trip to the Gilberts in 1859, a specimen of a bird from Lord Howe Island ten years before an example of the same species reached London. I conclude that the entire problem is probably traceable to an early curatorial error at the MCZ in which a fluid-preserved specimen of Tricholimnas sylvestris from Lord Howe Island was wrongly associated with an old label from one of Garrett’s collections. In this connection it is worth noting that other early specimens of T. sylvestris were originally supplied in spirits. I have already alluded to the MCZ skeleton possibly having been originally in alcohol. Likewise there are three dataless skins from the Rothschild collection that are marked as having been prepared ‘from spirits” (AMNH 545363-5). In summary, all available morphological and historical evidence points to the type of Tricholimnas conditicius Peters & Griscom, 1928, being The former name should thus fall back into synonymy. Acknowledgements For access to the holotype of T. conditicius and other specimens at the Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, I continue to be indebted to Raymond A. Paynter, Jr. I am also grateful to the American Museum of Natural History, New York, especially Mrs Mary LeCroy, for access to and lending of specimens. Comparisons were facilitated by colour photographs supplied by Beth Miles and S.L. Olson 179 Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(3) Richard Flint. Ms Mary S. McCutcheon kindly supplied information on Ebon from the Biogeography Files at the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution. Richard Froeschner (Dept. of Entomology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution) checked on the distribution of cicadas in the Pacific. For comments on the manuscript I thank Helen F. James. References: Amerson, A. B. 1969. Ornithology of the Marshall and Gilbert Islands. Atoll Research Bull. 127. Bennett, G. 1870. [Letter on collections from Lord Howe Island]. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1869: 471—472. Clench, W. J. 1979. A biography of Andrew Garrett, early naturalist of Polynesia: Part 2. Catalogue of molluscan species and bibliography. Nautilus 93: 96-102. Doane, E. T. 1861. Remarks upon the atoll of Ebon, in Micronesia. Amer. fourn. Science and Arts ser. 2, 31: 318-325. Graves, G. R. & Olson, S. L. 1987. Chlorostilbon bracet Lawrence, an extinct species of hummingbird from New Providence Island, Bahamas. Auk 104: 296-302. Greenway, J. C., Jr. 1952. Tricholimnas conditicius is probably a synonym of Tricholimnas sylvestris. Breviora 5: 1—4. Hindwood, K. A. 1940. The birds of Lord Howe Island. Emu 40: 1—86. Iredale, T. 1940. Marine molluscs from Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, Australia and New Caledonia. Australian Zoologist 9: 429-443. James, H. F., Zusi, R. L. & Olson, S. L. 1989. Dysmorodrepanis munroi (Fringillidae: Drepanidini), a valid genus and species of Hawaiian finch. Wilson Bull. 101: 159-179. Mathews, G. M. 1928. The Birds of Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands. H. F. & G. Witherby, London. Olson, S. L. 1986a. An early account of some birds from Mauke, Cook Islands, and the origin of the ‘‘Mysterious Starling’? Aplonis mavornata Buller. Notornis 33: 197-208. Olson, S. L. 1986b. Gallirallus sharpei (Buttikofer) nov. comb., a valid species of rail (Rallidae) of unknown origin. Gerfaut 76: 263-269. Olson, S. L., Balouet, J. C. & Fisher, C. T. 1989. The Owlet-nightjar of New Caledonia, Aegotheles savesi, with comments on the systematics of the Aegothelidae. Gerfaut 77 (for 1987): 341-352. Peters, J. L. & Griscom, L. 1928. A new rail and a new dove from Micronesia. Proc. New England Zool. Club 10: 99-106. Sclater, P. L. 1870. [Description of Ocydromus sylvestris, new species, from Lord Howe Island]. Proc. Zool. Soc. London 1869: 472—473. Thomas, W. S. 1979. A biography of Andrew Garrett, early naturalist of Polynesia. Part 1. Nautilus 93: 15-28. Walters, M. 1987. The provenance of the Gilbert Rail Tricholimnas conditicius (Peters & Griscom). Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 107: 181-184. Wood, D.S. & Schnell, G. D. 1986. Revised World Inventory of Avian Skeletal Specimens, 1986. American Ornithologists’ Union & Oklahama Biological Survey, Norman, Oklahoma. Address: Storrs L. Olson, Dept. of Vertebrate Zoology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. 20560, U.S.A. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 C. A. Ross S T. R. Ramos 180 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Distribution of Centropus viridis in the Babuyan Islands, northern Philippines by Charles A. Ross & Tomas R. Ramos Received 24 August 1991 Few ornithological collections have been made in the Babuyan Islands. Whitehead collected briefly on Fuga in 1895 while being waylaid en route to Cape Engano, Luzon (Ogilvie Grant 1896). Mearns collected 30 speci- mens on 29-30 May 1907 (data from Mearns field notes on file at USNM) including two Centropus, a C. viridis major (USNM 201860) and a C. bengalensis (USNM 201872). The largest historic collections from these islands, made by McGregor (1904, 1905, 1906, 1907, 1910), were largely destroyed during the Second World War, except for a few specimens distributed to institutions outside the Philippines (Sibley 1946). Parkes & Niles (1988) described Centropus viridis major from 5 speci- mens collected by Tomas and Jacinto Ramos on Fuga Island, Babuyan Island Group, north of Luzon. This taxon differs from C. v. viridis, found throughout most of the Philippine islands, by larger size and from C. wv. carpenter (endemic to Batan Island north of the Babuyan Island Group) and the smaller C. v. mindorensis (endemic to Mindoro Island west of central Luzon), by its chestnut wings. Additional specimens of C. v. major collected by the faunal inventory program of the National Museum of the Philippines in collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, in the northern Philippines provide new information on the distribution of this poorly known race in the Babuyan Islands. In 1989 and 1990 we made ornithological collections on 4 of the 5 main Babuyan Islands (Camiguin Norte, Fuga, Dalupiri, and Calayan) and two small satellite islands west of Fuga (Maybag and Barit). Specimens of Centropus viridis from Camiguin Norte (1 9), Dalupiri (1 ¢, 1 9), and Calayan (1 ¢, 2 2) were measured using vernier calipers (bill length from the midsagittal frontal-nasal suture, determined by feel, to the bill tip) and a steel metal ruler (wing chord) and compared with material in the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, collection (USNM). ‘The 6 specimens agree with C. v. viridis in coloration being “‘dull black glossed with green, except for wings, which are bright chestnut’’ (duPont 1971). The specimen from Camiguin Norte, a female, is also similar in size to C. v. viridis with a wing chord of 162 and tail length of 245 mm versus female Luzon coucals where mean wing chord is 162.3+5.57 (n=12) and mean tail length 252.1+12.23 (n=11) (data from Table 1, Parkes & Niles 1988). On the other hand, our specimens from Dalupiri and Calayan islands are larger than C. v. viridis with mean male wing chord 165 (range 163-168) and tail length 233 (range 223-244) (n=2), and mean female wing chord 179 (range 175-181) and tail length 269 (range 251-281) (n= 3); and we feel referable to C. v. major. The size differences of these taxa are reflected in their weights (Table 1). C. A. Ross S T. R. Ramos 181 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) TABLE 1 Weights (g) of Centropus viridis from the northern Philippines Island or Sex Luzon Province 3 i) Pampanga Prov. 104 — Cagayan Prov. 110, 126 142 Camiguin Norte — 158 Dalupiri 169 223 Calayan 155 QD* 21:9 Batan 145, 153 179, 200, 204, 209, 253 Our knowledge of the distribution and systematics of avian species in the northern Philippines is incomplete and hampered by the lack of adequate extant collections. Types of several taxa named by McGregor no longer exist, and without topotypic material racial affinities of some insular bird populations will remain obscured. ‘Taxa endemic to one or two of these islands have been supposed to be widespread throughout the group. However, as seen from the distribution of C. viridis, this supposition may be in error and additional collections are warranted. Acknowledgements We wish to thank the staff of the National Museum of the Philippines, Silliman University, and Taggart Corporation; R.S. Kennedy, R. W. Dickerman, R. I. Crombie, and our friends in the northern Philippines, who facilitated our work and assisted in collection of specimens. We are especially grateful to A. and L. Lim for facilitating and allowing us to collect on Fuga, Barit and Maybag islands, and F. Hermanos for permission to make collections on Dalupiri Island. Partial support for this work was provided by the Research Opportunities Fund of the Smithsonian Institution and Mocatta Corporation for which we thank S. Shetler and H. Jarecki, respectively. Storrs L. Olson (USNM) read a preliminary draft of this paper and we appreciate his helpful comments. References: duPont, J. E. 1971. Philippine Birds. Delaware Museum of Natural History. McGregor, R. C. 1904. The birds of Calayan and Fuga, Babuyan Group. Bull. Philippine Mus. 4: 3-34. McGregor, R. C. 1905. Further notes on birds from Ticao, Cuyo, Culion, Calayan, Lubang, and Luzon. Bureau of Government Laboratories no. 25: 25-34. McGregor, R. C. 1906. Papers on Philippine birds. I.—A collecting trip to Calayan and Fuga. Condor 8: 12-16. McGregor, R. C. 1907. The birds of Batan, Camiguin, Y’Ami, and Babuyan Claro, islands north of Luzon. Phil. F. Sci. 2: 337-351. McGregor, R. C. 1910. Birds from the coast of northern Luzon and from the islands of Sabtan and Dalupiri. Phil. ¥. Sci. 5: 219-221. Ogilvie Grant, W. R. 1896. On the birds of the Philippine Islands. —Part VI. The vicinity of Cape Engano, N. E. Luzon, Manila Bay, and Fuga Island, Babuyan Group. Ibis (7) 2: 101-128. Parkes, K. C. & Niles, D. M. 1988. Notes on Philippine birds, 12. An undescribed subspecies of Centropus viridis. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 108: 193-194. Sibley, C. G. 1946. Notes and news. Condor 48: 46—47. Address: Charles A. Ross, Department of Vertebrate Zoology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. 20560, U.S.A. Thomas R. Ramos, Zoology Division, National Museum of the Philippines, Executive House, Rizal Park, Manila, Philippines. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 M. Herremans & M. Louette 182 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Sexual dimorphism in the juvenile plumage of the Courol Leptosomus discolor and considerations on its affinities by M. Herremans & M. Louette Received 31 August 1991 The Courol or Cuckoo-roller is endemic to Madagascar and all four Comoro Islands (Grand Comoro, Moheli, Anjouan, Mayotte). Although a common species, nothing of its breeding habits was known until the description of nest histories by Forbes-Watson (1967) and Appert (1968). ‘These authors also presented a description of the nestlings, but their sexual dimorphism remained undescribed. However, Appert indicated that in Madagascar males and females could be recognized at the moment of fledging, but without detailing any distinctive feature. Benson et al. (1976) mentioned that juvenile males (sexed by dissection) were in female dress, and Langrand (1990) says that immatures differ from the female by generally drabber plumage. That the adult male has a non-breeding dress, similar to the female’s, as stated by Milon et al. (1973), is refuted by our observations on moult in many specimens. At variance with the statements by Benson (1960) and Forbes-Watson (1967) that Courols are not molested by the Comorian people, a box with two young taken from a nest was obtained from children at Moroni, Grand Comoro, on 30 November 1989. The birds were well-feathered and probably already some four weeks old. We kept them in our house for another ten days until the older flew off unexpectedly; the younger was released shortly afterwards. The normal prey is chameleons and large insects, but, except for some insects, we fed offal of poultry and fish, corned beef and occasionally Mabuya lizards. Each of the young grew 28 g over the first seven days with us, to 216 and 228 g, respectively. These are high figures since an adult male and female from this small Grand Comoro subspecies gracilis weighed only 160 and 196g respectively (pers. obs.); recorded weights of adult males of the decidedly larger nominate race are 219, 222, 205, 192 and 205 g (Benson et al. 1976; pers. obs.). A female from the subspecies intermedius, endemic to Anjouan, was still heavier (270g), but might have been in pre-laying condition (pers. obs.). There was a prominent dimorphism in the juvenile plumage, which we believe to be sexual (the birds were not sexed internally and sexing on the blood samples taken from both failed in the laboratory, so we cannot be certain). The smaller (‘male’) bird had the mantle feathers and all wing coverts dark grey with a suffused metallic green-blue-purple gloss towards the rusty tips and on the outer webs. The remiges were dark grey with clear gloss on the outer webs. The larger (‘female’) bird had no gloss, and the rusty parts on the mantle and wing coverts were much more extensive, giving her in profile amore uniform rufous colour in contrast to the rusty on dark grey speckled aspect of the other bird. The outer webs of the remiges had a broad rufous band in the ‘female’, and no gloss. The M. Herremans & M. Louette 183 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) rectrices had a dark subterminal band in the ‘male’, but were more uniformly bright rufous in the ‘female’. ‘The rear end of the cap was darker grey and less barred in the ‘male’. ‘The adult male’s facial pattern of a black eye stripe and a black band across the head between the eyes (see, e.g., photo in Appert 1968) was already indicated in the ‘male’, but absent in the ‘female’. The ‘male’ also had more whitish underparts, the ‘female’ more buffish, corresponding to the dimorphism in the adult. In general, the ‘female’ juvenile plumage closely resembled the adult female plumage. On the other hand, the greyer upperparts and whiter under- parts, the facial pattern, and the presence of gloss on the plumage are all features of the adult male which are already apparent in the juvenile. A fledged juvenile male from Moheli(KMMA no. 83-43-A-798), where the nominate race occurs, is more pale grey-brown on the back, but otherwise follows the patterns described above in the juvenile ‘male’ of the race gracilis from Grand Comoro. Sexual dimorphism in the juvenile plumage is likely to be restricted to the facial mask in the race intermedius, because in this peculiar race the adult females also have extensive gloss, making them an example of the insular evolutionary trend towards reduced sexual dimorphism (Herremans 1990). The mention of gloss by Forbes- Watson (1967) in nominate birds from Mayotte, indicates that both of the nestlings in the nest which he found were males. We agree with Forbes-Watson on the curious threat-behaviour of the young (also described by Appert 1968), and on the nasty smell of the birds and of their peculiar dark liquid excreta. Appert even mentions the smell before the presence of young in the nest. Originally, this species was considered to be a cuckoo, having been described as a species of Cuculus. Sclater (1865) found it differed from cuckoos in the form of the nostrils, in the presence of an auxiliary plume on the body-feathers and in having 12 rectrices, and suggested it was close to the Coraciidae, although he admitted osteological differences. Verheyen (1955) found certain resemblances to the Coraciidae, but also differences including, apart from ‘‘osteometrical’’ ones, differences in pterylography, myology and the structure of the syrinx and the carotides. Based on morphology of the skeleton (Cracraft 1971) and on limb myology (Maurer & Raikow 1981, comparing with other Coraciiformes only), the Courol is nowadays usually placed in its own monotypic family, close to the rollers Coraciidae and ground-rollers Brachypteraciidae in the Coraciiformes. Burton (1984), studying the feeding apparatus, also classified Leptosomus as a monotypic family in the Coraciiformes, but found it “harder to understand the significance of all its distinctive features’ and remarked on resemblances to the Galbuloidea. DNA- comparison was only performed on a limited scale and therefore, not surprisingly, left this bird in the Coraciiformes as a monotypic super- family (Sibley & Ahlquist 1990; see also their discussion of differences of opinion about the composition of the order Coraciiformes). Aspects of its behaviour, e.g. the threat behaviour of young in the nest (Forbes-Watson 1967), are very different from what is known in the European Roller Coracias garrulus (Glutz von Blotzheim & Bauer 1980); and the loud and whistling vocalizations (Herremans 1988) also suggest that the affinities with the Coraciidae may be not very close. Very little in M. Herremans & M. Louette 184 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) the life-history of the Courol would suggest affinities to the ground- rollers. Only limited sexual dimorphism in the nestling plumage is known among the Coraciiformes (e.g. in some larger Alcedinidae), and none whatsoever in the Coraciidae and Brachypteraciidae, but it is frequent in some groups of zygodactylous birds (e.g. Picidae; Verheyen 1957 con- sidered sexual dimorphism in their juvenile plumage to be an apomorph feature!), and it also occurs in some Cuculidae. The situation of the brown phase found among the nestlings of the Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius comes very close to the one found in the Courol; such a phase could become genetically linked to females (as indeed is the case for a small percentage—the hepatic phase—in the adult Cuckoo Cuculus canorus). In the Koel Eudynamys scolopaceus there is actually sexual dimorphism in the nestling. We stress that our nestlings of Leptosomus perched definitely in zygodactylous manner under all conditions. According to Sclater (1865), however, its feet are not zygodactylous to the same extent as, e.g., in Cuculidae. We question that zygodactyly would be apomorphic in the Courol (contra Cracraft 1971 and Maurer & Raikow 1981, who also suppose this to be the case for other traits such as syrinx morphology). Instead, zygodactyly and sexual dimorphism (including the nestling plumage) might well be plesiomorphic in the Courol. The habit of nesting in holes is of course not a feature of the Cuculidae, but rather fits the ‘Coraciiformes’ and Piciformes. Nevertheless, we would not be surprised if the Courol’s true affinities were not too far from the Cuculiformes, something that should be tested with biochemical methods. Acknowledgements Activities on Grand Comoro were sponsored by the ICBP project 22/KM/3. D. Vangeluwe acquired the birds by excellent diplomacy and he also shared parental care over the birds, together with D. Meirte and D. Tonnoeyr. References: Appert, O. 1968. Neues zur Lebensweise und Verbreitung des Kurols, Leptosomus discolor (Hermann). 7. Orn. 109: 116-126. Benson, C. W. 1960. The birds of the Comoro Islands: results of the B.O.U. Centenary Expedition 1958. Jbzs 103B: 5—106. Benson, C. W., Colebrook-Robjent, J. F. R. & Williams, A. 1976. Contribution a Pornithologie de Madagascar (suite). Ozseau 46: 209-242. Burton, P. J. K. 1984. Anatomy and evolution of the feeding apparatus in the avian orders Coraciiformes and Piciformes. Bull. Brit. Mus. Nat. Hist. (Zool.) 47: 331—443. Cracraft, J. 1971. The relationships and evolution of the rollers: families Coraciidae, Brachypteraciidae and Leptosomatidae. Auk 88: 723-752. Forbes-Watson, A. D. 1967. Observations at a nest of the Cuckoo-roller Leptosomus discolor. Ibis 109: 425—430. Glutz von Blotzheim, U.N. & Bauer, K. M. 1980. Handbuch der Végel Mitteleuropas. Vol. 8. Akademische Verlagsgesellschaft, Wiesbaden. Herremans, M. 1988. Inter-island variation in bird vocalizations on the Comoros. Proc. VI P.A.O.C.: 281-295. Herremans, M. 1990. Trends in the evolution of insular land birds, exemplified by the Comoro, Seychelle and Mascarene Islands. Proc. Int. Symp. Vert. Biogeography and Systematics in the Tropics, Bonn 1989: 249-260. Langrand, O. 1990. Guide to the Birds of Madagascar. Yale Univ. Press. Maurer, D. R. & Raikow, R. J. 1981. Appendicular myology, phylogeny, and classification of the Avian order Coraciiformes (including Trogoniformes). Ann. Carnegie Mus. 50: 417-434. R. Schodde 185 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Muilon, P., Petter, J. J. & Randrianasolo, G. 1973. Faune de Madagascar. XX XV Oiseaux. ORSTOM, Tananarive & CNRS, Paris. Sclater, P. L. 1965. On the structure of Leptosoma discolor. Proc. Zool. Soc. London: 682-689. Sibley, C. G. & Ahlquist, J. E. 1990. Phylogeny and Classification of Birds. A study in molecular evolution. Yale Univ. Press. Verheyen, R. 1955. Analyse du potentiel morphologique et considérations sur la systématique des Coraciiformes (Wetmore 1934). Bull. Inst. Roy. Sci. Nat. Belg. 31 (92, 93, 94). Verheyen, R. 1957. Bijzonderheden over het jongkleed der spechten (Picidae). Gerfaut 47: 177-181. Address: Dr Marc Herremans, Department Wildlife and National Parks (Ornithology section), P.O. Box 131, Gaborone, Botswana. Dr Michel Louette, Koninklijk Museum voor Midden-Afrika, B-3080 Tervuren, Belgium. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 ‘Towards stabilizing the nomenclature of Australian birds: neotypification of Myzomela sanguinolenta (Latham, 1801), Miucroeca fascinans (Latham, 1801) and Microeca leucophaea (Latham, 1801) by Richard Schodde Received 3 September 1991 Recently, McAllan (1990) questioned the application of established scientific names for two well-known Australian oscines, namely Myzomela sanguinolenta (Latham, 1801) for the Scarlet Honeyeater, and Microeca fascinans (Latham, 1801) and M. leucophaea (Latham, 1801) for the Jacky Winter. These names are not typified by identifiable specimens; their types, evidently discarded at the time of drawing, are represented instead by paintings or sketches in extensive series of late 18th Century illustrations of animals and plants from central coastal New South Wales and Norfolk Island. The largest of the series, known as the Watling drawings after a principal illustrator, was brought together by Surgeon-General John White in the first decade of Australian settlement (1788-1795) and is now preserved in the British Museum (Natural History) (Sharpe 1906, Sawyer 1949, Hindwood 1970, Smith & Wheeler 1988). Through A. B. Lambert, John Latham examined the drawings, made copies of them, and on them based the many new nominal species of Australian birds that he described in the supplements to his General Synopsis of Birds and Index Ornithologicus (Latham 1801a,b). Certhia sanguinolenta Latham (=Myzomela sanguinolenta), Loxia fascinans Latham (=WMzicroeca fascinans) and Sylvia leucophaea Latham (= Microeca leucophaea) were among them. With the phrase ‘generally R. Schodde 186 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) assumed’, McAllan (1990) introduced an element of uncertainty about the connection between the drawings and Latham’s new bird names. The link, nevertheless, is established by a manuscript in Latham’s hand in the British Museum (photocopy in CSIRO Division of Wildlife and Ecology, Canberra, Australia). In it the drawings are indexed by their original number to the species name and page in Latham’s (1801la) second supplement to his Synopsis of Birds (also Strickland 1843). McAllan (1990) rejected as unidentifiable the Watling and Lambert figures representing Certhia sanguinolenta Latham, Loxia fascinans Latham and Sylvia leucophaea Latham, and adopted the next available junior synonyms as the valid names for the two species involved. The names introduced for them, Myzomela dibapha (Latham, 1801) and Microeca macroptera (Vigors & Horsfield, 1827), have hardly been used in the Australian literature since the 1850s. Such a course, unfortunately, sets a precedent for destabilising nomenclature. Many, if not most, 18th Century avian illustrations—and nominal taxa based on them—are flawed with inaccuracies of tone and markings which can be invoked to render them indeterminable. There is, however, an alternative solution that secures established usage: neotypification with specimens of the taxa to which the names in question have traditionally been applied. For the species involved here, it is a course advocated by the Taxonomic Advisory Committee of the Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union (R.A.O.U.), in accordance with Recommendation 75a of the Inter- national Code of Zoological Nomenclature (I.C.Z.N. 1985), with the following results. At the crux of the case for rejecting sanguinolenta Latham, fascinans Latham and leucophaea Latham are the drawings on which they are founded. Here the arguments put forward by McAllan (1990) are at their weakest because he examined none of the original figures, checked only black-and-white reproductions of sanguinolenta and leucophaea, and relied largely on Mathews (1923a,b, 1927) for their identity and that of fascinans. As has been stressed elsewhere (Schodde 1978, Schodde & Mason 1980, Mason 1982), Mathews was susceptible to misinterpreting and misrepresenting the illustrations and descriptions of 18th and 19th Century ornithologists. Accordingly, the figures on which the above three names are based are reanalysed here, their recatalogued numbers in the British Museum being given in parenthesis (after Smith & Wheeler 1988). 1. Watling drawing no. 109 (188), Certhia sanguinolenta Latham. An accurate colour transparency of this drawing is held by CSIRO Division of Wildlife and Ecology, Canberra, as part of a complete photographic set of the Watling drawings in colour. It depicts a bird with a short curved bill opened to reveal a fimbriate meliphagid tongue, an extensively scarlet dorsum identical in colouring to an adult male Scarlet Honeyeater, and a whitish throat and dusky brown belly much as is found in female Scarlet Honeyeaters. Although it matches no known species, its tongue and red pigmentation can represent only a Myzomela. Among the species of that genus, moreover, it resembles the Scarlet Honeyeater most closely, either as a freak plumage, or as a post-fledging male moulting into adult plumage, or as acomposite of male and female plumages. Hindwood (1970) agreed with this identifi- cation in his analysis of the Watling drawings. What is self-evident, given that the source of drawing 109 was central coastal New South Wales (cf. Latham 1801a, b), is that the Scarlet Honeyeater is the main if not only species involved in its formulation. 2. Lambert drawing, vol. I, pl. 58, Loxiafascinans Latham. This crude sketch is one of the few early drawings of Australian birds that A. B. Lambert passed on to Latham outside the R. Schodde 187 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Watling set (Mathews 1923b; cf. the Latham handwritten index to the Watling drawings in BMNH quoted above). Unfortunately, McAllan (1990) appears to have overlooked its reproduction by Mathews (1936) on plate 74 in the supplement to his The Birds of Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands. The two-tone figure there shows a plain dark dorsum and wings, a contrasting white ventral surface, a dark tail with the outer two pairs of rectrices evidently white, arboreal habit, rather weak feet, and finch-like bill; Latham’s accompanying descrip- tions (1801a,b) record the bill and feet as dusky. Finch-like bill apart, the only Australasian oscine that comes close to matching both drawing and description is the Jacky Winter, an eopsaltriid flycatcher. To link the figure to the Red-browed Finch Neochmia temporalis (Latham) instead, as Mathews (1923b) did with his reference to Watling drawing 168, is misleading. Even its thick bill is not so different from the stubby bill of the Jacky Winter; the disparity is mainly in its size in proportion to the rest of the head and body. In summary, then, the only species that may reasonably be associated with the drawing, given its crudeness and Australian source, is the Jacky Winter (also Gould in Strickland 1843; cf. Gray 1843, Mathews 1923b). 3. Watling drawing 201 (276), Sylvia leucophaea Latham. A transparency in colour from the Watling set at CSIRO Division of Wildlife and Ecology, Canberra, and reproduced by Calaby in Smith & Wheeler (1988), shows a slender, buff-brown oscine marked with a bar of white at the base of the remiges and along the outer rectrices. Not only in tones and markings but also shape, stance and extremities—it is depicted with a fine bill and long feet on the ground—it matches a member of the robin genus Petroica, not Microeca. It is closest to the Australian Flame Robin Petroica phoenicea Gould in immature or female plumage, despite lacking a narrow white bar on the forehead; in that plumage the white frons bar may be obscure or obsolete, particularly in young males. Hindwood (1970), nevertheless, associated the drawing with the Australian Rose Robin Petroica rosea Gould, an identification rejected by McAllan (1990) who suggested other Australian robins instead. Whatever its identity, all recent reviewers disagree with Mathews (1923b) that it is of a Jacky Winter. Although it is probable that Watling drawing 109 represents a Scarlet Honeyeater, Lambert etching I.58 a Jacky Winter, and Watling drawing 201 one of the Australian species of Petroica, elements of doubt still attach to all three. Of the three, only the last, on which Sylvia leucophaea Latham is based, is a source of serious nomenclatural confusion and instability because it implicates both the Jacky Winter and species of Petroica. If applied to one of the likely species of Petroica—phoenicea Gould, 1837 or rosea Gould, 1840—leucophaea Latham, 1801 would preoccupy either of those long-standing names. Accordingly, the Taxonomic Advisory Committee of the R.A.O.U. has directed me, in the course of revisions for the Zoological Catalogue of Australia (Aves), to neotypify the following names with the following specimens: 1. Certhia sanguinolenta Latham, 1801—xneotype, herein designated: ANWC 19198, adult male, in the Australian National Wildlife Collection, CSIRO, Canberra, from the approximate topotypical locality of Newington, Sydney = Port Jackson, New South Wales. This is a specimen of the species currently known in Australia as the Scarlet Honeyeater Myzomela sanguinolenta (Latham, 1801). 2. Loxia fascinans Latham, 1801—xneotype, herein designated: AM 0.4175, adult male, inthe Australian Museum, Sydney, from the approxi- mate type locality of Hornsby, Sydney = Port Jackson, New South Wales. This is a specimen of the species currently known in Australia as the Jacky Winter Microeca leucophaea (Latham, 1801). 3. Sylvia leucophaea Latham, 1801—neotype, herein designated: AM 0.4175, that of Loxia fascinans Latham, above. By this action, Sylvia R. Schodde 188 Bull, B.O.C. 1992 112(3) leucophaea Latham becomes an objective synonym of Loxia fascinans Latham. The nomenclatural consequences of these neotypifications need expla- nation. Now based undeniably on the same species, Certhia sanguinolenta Latham, C. dibapha Latham (based on Watling drawing 107=186 and 108=187) and C. erythropygia Latham (based on Watling drawing 120=198) become competing subjective synonyms; all three names were made available in the same publication (Latham 1801b). Here precedence was established by the first reviser, Gould (1843, June), who chose Certhia sanguinolenta, citing C. dibapha and C. erythropygia as subordinate synonyms. Although Strickland (1843, May) noted that C. sanguinolenta ‘is probably’ the female of C. dibapha, he selected neither over the other, cf. Article 24 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (I.C.Z.N. 1985). Since the time of Gould, sanguinolenta Latham has been much the most widely used specific name for the Scarlet Honeyeater, not only in Australia (McAllan 1990) but also internationally (Salomonsen 1967, Wolters 1975-1982, Sibley & Monroe 1990); dibapha Latham has currency only in the small New Caledonian literature. Keeping sanguinolenta Latham as the senior available specific synonym for this species is thus supported by prevailing use as well as the provisions of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature through neotypification. The issue of the type species of the genus Myzomela, muddled by McAllan (1990) and others before him, is irrelevant to the application of Certhia sanguinoleta Latham. Vigors & Horsfield (1827) established Myzomela on a single nominal species: Meliphaga cardinalis (Gmelin) = Certhia cardinalis Gmelin. Scrutiny of their synonymy and account shows that their concept of that species included the Australian form now separated specifically as sanguinolenta Latham, so making an absurdity of imputations that “MVeliphaga cardinalis Vigors and Horsfield, 1827” is a junior homonym of Certhia cardinalis Gmelin, 1788 (McAllan 1990). The type species of Myzomela is thus Certhia ,cardinalis Gmelin, as Meliphaga cardinalis (Gmelin); and its designation is either by original indication if Vigors and Horsfield’s reference to ‘“‘Mel. cardinalis being the normal species”’ can be accepted as such, or by monotypy. Both fascinans Latham and leucophaea Latham have been used for the Jacky Winter within the last fifty years. The traditional fascinans was employed almost universally from the time of Gould (1865) until 1960 when, for the wrong reasons (McAllan 1990), a former Checklist Committee of the R.A.O.U. rejected it in favour of leucophaea. Since then, leucophaea has come into general use. Published simultaneously (Latham 1801b), both names become competing synonyms through neo- typification here. As first reviser, Gould (in Strickland 1943) determined their precedence by choosing fascinans with the comment (p. 337): ““Loxia fascinans, Lath. ... must now be termed Microeca fascinans ... Sylvia leucophaea, Lath., is Microeca fascinans (Lath.)’”. Aware of Gould’s (1843, 1865) choice, the Taxonomic Advisory Committee of the R.A.O.U. recommended the present course of neotypification to effect suppression of leucophaea Latham as a junior objective synonym of R. Schodde 189 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) fascinans Latham. The association of leucophaea with species of Petroica was considered a greater source of future confusion and instability than the temporary upheaval of returning fascinans to seniority for the Jacky Winter. Microeca fascinans (Latham) thus becomes its valid name. It can hardly be interpreted as an unused senior synonym under Article 79(c) of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (I.C.Z.N. 1985), having been in prevailing use until 1960 and being employed sporadically through the succeeding decade (e.g. Courtney 1967). Postscript The procedures employed here, regrettably, do not settle Petroica phoenicea Gould, 1837 as the valid name for the Australian Flame Robin. As Mathews (1913, 1920, 1946) pointed out, phoenicea Gould is probably preoccupied in Petroica by Muscicapa chrysoptera Quoy & Gaimard, 1830. This name has usually been interpreted as a junior subjective synonym of the Australian Pink Robin Petroica rodinogaster (Drapiez, 1819=1820), e.g. by the R.A.O.U. Checklist Committee (1926) and Wolters (1975-1982). Indeed, Mathews himself was confused, referring it to the synonymy of rodinogaster Drapiez on several occasions (e.g. Mathews 1922, 1930). Nevertheless, both the original description of Muscicapa chrysoptera and its illustration as Figure 2 on Plate 4 of Oiseaux in the Atlas, Zoologie, of the Voyage of the Astrolabe (Dumont d’Urville 1833) are consistent with a juvenile male or female plumaged Flame Robin. It has extensively white outermost rectrices, twin buff remex stripes, plain face and frons, and pale grey-brown breast grading to a whitish abdomen. Until the holotype is found and checked in the Museum National d’ Histoire Naturelle, Paris, it seems prudent to treat the name as a nomen dubium without taking further action. If the holotype proves to bea Flame Robin, the Taxonomic Advisory Commitee of the R.A.O.U. anticipates requesting the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature, through the Standing Committee on Ornithological Nomenclature of the International Ornithological Committee, to use its plenary powers to either suppress Muscicapa chrysoptera Quoy & Gaimard, 1830, as an unused senior synonym, or to set aside its existing type material and designate a neotype identifiable with Petroica rodinogaster (Drapiez). Only Mathews (11.cc.) appears to have used chrysoptera Quoy & Gaimard for the Flame Robin since its description. Acknowledgements In compiling this review, I have been assisted greatly by advice and guidance from the Taxonomic Advisory Committee of the R.A.O.U. and from Professors W. J. Bock and W.D.L. Ride, both members of the International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature. References: Courtney, J. 1967. The juvenile food-begging call of some fledgling cuckoos—vocal mimicry or vocal duplication by natural selection. Emu 67: 154-157. Dumont d’Urville, J. S. C. 1833. Voyage de découvertes de I’ Astrolabe. Atlas, Zoologie. J. Tastu, Paris. Gould, J. 1843. The Birds of Australia, Part XI, in Gould J. (1848), The Birds of Australia, Vol. 4. Published by the author, London. R. Schodde 190 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Gould, J. 1865. Handbook to the Birds of Australia. 2 Vols. Published by the author, London. Gray, G. R. 1843. Some rectifications of the nomenclature of Australian birds. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (1) 11: 189-194. Hindwood, K. A. 1970. The ‘Watling’ Drawings, with incidental notes on the ‘Lambert’ and the ‘Latham’ drawings. Proc. Roy. Zool. Soc. N.S.W. 1968-69: 16-32. I.C.Z.N. (International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature) 1985. International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. 3rd edn. International Trust for Zoological Nomenclature, London. Latham, J. 1801a. Supplement II to the General Synopsis of Birds. Leigh, Sotheby & Son, London. Latham, J. 1801b. Supplementum Indicis Ornithologict, sive Systematis Ornithologiae. Leigh, Sotheby & Son, London. McAllan, I. A. W. 1990. The Cochineal Creeper and the Fascinating Grosbeak: a re-examination of some names of John Latham. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 110: 153-159. Mason, I. J. 1982. The identity of certain early Australian types referred to the Cuculidae. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 102: 99-106. Mathews, G. M. 1913. A List of the Birds of Australia. Witherby & Co., London. Mathews, G. M. 1920. The Birds of Australia. Vol. 8. H. F. & G. Witherby, London. Mathews, G. M. 1922. Additions and corrections. Austral Avian Rec. 5: 1-9. Mathews, G. M. 1923a. Additions and corrections to my lists of the birds of Australia. Austral Avian Rec. 5: 33—44. Mathews, G. M. 1923b. More notes of interest. Austral Avian Rec. 5: 45-73. Mathews, G. M. 1927. Corrections and additions to my check list Part II. Pp. 429—431 in The Birds of Australia. Vol. XII, part 10. Witherby & Co., London. Mathews, G. M. 1930. Systema Avium Australasianarum. A systematic list of the birds of the Australasian region. Part II. British Ornithologists’ Union. Mathews, G. M. 1936. Additions to “The Birds of Australia’. Pp. 13—70 in A Supplement to the Birds of Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands to which 1s added those birds of New Zealand not figured by Buller. H. F. & G. Witherby, London. Mathews, G. M. 1946. A Working List of Australian Birds, Including the Australian Quadrant and New Zealand. Shepherd & Newman, Sydney. R.A.O.U. (Royal Australian Ornithologists’ Union) Checklist Committee 1926. Official Checklist of the Birds of Australia. 2nd edn. Govt. Printer, Melbourne. Salomonsen, F. 1967. Family Meliphagidae. Pp. 338—450 in R. A. Paynter, Jr. (ed.), Checklist of Birds of the World. Vol. 12. Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard. Sawyer, F. C. 1949. Notes on some original drawings of birds used by Dr. John Latham. 7. Soc. Bibliog. Nat. Hist. 2: 173-180. Schodde, R. 1978. The identity of five type-specimens of New Guinean birds. Emu 78: 1-6. Schodde, R. & Mason, I. J. 1980. Nocturnal Birds of Australia. Lansdowne Editions, Melbourne. Sharpe, R. B. 1906. Birds. Pp. 79-515 in The History of the Collections Contained in the Natural History Departments of the British Museum. Vol. 2. British Museum, London. Sibley, C. G. & Monroe, B. L. Jr. 1990. Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World. Yale Univ. Press. Smith, B. & Wheeler, A. (eds) 1988. The Art of the First Fleet and other early Australian drawings. Oxford Univ. Press, Melbourne. Strickland, H. E. 1843. Remarks on a collection of Australian drawings of birds, the property of the Earl of Derby. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. (1) 11: 333-338. Vigors, N. A. & Horsfield, T. 1827. A description of the Australian birds in the collection of the Linnean Society; with an attempt at arranging them according to their natural affinities. Trans. Linn. Soc. London. 15: 170-331. Wolters, H. E. 1975-1982. Die Vogelarten der Erde. Paul Parey, Hamburg & Berlin. Address: Richard Schodde, CSIRO Division of Wildlife and Ecology, PO Box 84, Lyneham, A.C.T. 2602, Australia. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 M.W. Fraser & D. #. Briggs 191 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) New information on the Nesospiza buntings at Inaccessible Island, Tristan da Cunha, and notes on their conservation by M. W. Fraser & D. F. Briggs Received 13 September 1991 Tristan and Wilkins’ Buntings Nesospiza acunhae and N. wilkinsi are endemic to Inaccessible and Nightingale Islands in the remote Tristan da Cunha archipelago, central South Atlantic Ocean. Visits by ornithologists to these islands, particularly Inaccessible, have been infrequent and brief, allowing for the collection of specimens but only limited field studies (Moseley 1892, Wilkins 1923, Broekhuysen & Macnae 1949, Hagen 1952, Elliott 1957, Richardson 1984). In consequence, the life histories of the buntings are poorly known. Both species are listed as ‘Rare’ in the Red Data Book (Part 1, Collar & Stuart 1985). We here present the results of observations made on these birds while we were members of the Denstone Expedition to Inaccessible in 1982-83 (Swales et al. 1985). Study site and methods Inaccessible (37°15’S, 12°30’W) is the second largest island of the Tristan da Cunha group, with a planar area of 13 km? (P. G. Ryan, contra Siddall 1985). Its biota and human history are described by Wace & Holdgate (1976), Richardson (1984) and Fraser et al. (1988) and references therein. The island is uninhabited and is rarely visited by Tristan islanders. We were present on Inaccessible Island between 14 October and 23 December 1982, and 21 January and 10 February 1983. Observations were made of Tristan Buntings in a 1 ha site at Blenden Hall, a gently sloping landslip at sea level on the west coast of the island (locations of place names are given by Siddall 1985). The vegetation here is dominated by Spartina arundinacea tussock-grass up to 3:0 m tall, with patches of ferns Blechnum penna-marina and sedges. Scattered individ- uals and clumps of Island Tree Phylica arborea occur nearby. A small perennial stream runs through the area. Twenty buntings, including four breeding pairs, were uniquely colour-ringed. Measurements to the nearest 0-5 mm were made with stopped rule and dividers; masses were recorded to the nearest 0-1 g with a 50g Pesola spring balance. Nest watches totalling 21-7 h were made of nest-building by one pair at their first and first replacement nests. The incubation and nestling stages were monitored at other nests, for 44-3 h and 30-2h, respectively. Nest watches covered all daylight hours and averaged 1-5 h (range 0:3—9°8 h; Wel) Unless otherwise specified, data on the Tristan Bunting were collected at the Blenden Hall study site, where the duller-plumaged ‘lowland’ form (see Morphology, below) occurs. Opportunistic observations were made on the island plateau (300-500m a.s.1.), where Spartina tussock is M.W. Fraser & D. Ff. Briggs 192 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) relatively scarce and the vegetation is dominated by tree ferns Blechnum palmiforme and Phylica. Wilkins’ Buntings were mistnetted and ringed/colour-ringed at a small Phylica grove (‘Wilkins’ Copse’) at Skua Bog, Blenden Hall. Observations of this, by far the rarer of the two buntings at Inaccessible, were otherwise confined to chance encounters elsewhere at Blenden Hall and on the island plateau. Tristan Bunting Habitat and population size The Tristan Bunting occurs in all habitats at Inaccessible, but appeared to be most abundant on the tussock-clad coastal slopes and forelands. ‘The Blenden Hall study site held seven breeding pairs per hectare (contra M. W. Fraser, in Collar & Stuart 1985), and a variable number of non-breeding and subadult birds. Densities in other habitats appeared lower but were not quantified. However, we estimated from our general observations that the population was at least 5000 birds, and probably much more. It is not possible to infer any population changes from the two previous estimates (the ‘thousands’ of Hagen (1952) and Richardson’s (1984) 500-1000 pairs), but the species has invariably been recorded as abundant on Inaccessible. General habits Tristan Buntings occur singly or in pairs. They forage in both open and densely-vegetated areas, on the ground or on tussock seedheads. In Phylica woodland they forage on bark, in the foliage or amongst lichens on the limbs and trunks of the trees. They frequent the tussock/beach interface and debris at the highwater line and forage amongst exposed boulders at low tide. The buntings are fairly approachable (they can be caught by long- handled net, but not by hand). They rarely actively approached humans, nor displayed the strong curiosity which characterised Tristan Thrushes Nesocichla eremita at Inaccessible. Food The diet of Tristan Buntings was not quantified, but in the coastal lowlands the birds appeared to feed mainly on Spartina seeds. Here they also ate other vegetable matter including fruits of Empetrum and Nertera. Caterpillars were occasionally fed to nestlings. Small marine molluscs were taken on the beaches. Stomach contents recorded by Hagen (1952) and Richardson (1984) comprised at least three types of seed, six insects and one other arthropod. Territoriality Breeding males sang from traditional conspicuous, elevated song posts such as tall tussock or Phylica bushes whence they also pursued other birds in apparent territorial disputes or accompanied the female to the nest. ‘The males also rested and preened (including over-wing head- scratching) on these perches. Observations of chases between birds M. W. Fraser & D. ¥. Briggs 193 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) were not quantified or related to stage of breeding season, but appeared frequent between adult males and less frequent between adult males and subadults. The high densities of nests and birds at Blenden Hall were such that the exclusion of other birds from even a small territory was probably impossible. Females were observed chasing subadult birds and other adult females. An incubating female occasionally left her nest to pursue a female which had flown over the nest site. Breeding season and schedule Active nest-building was first recorded on 25 October, but a nest with eggs, found on 28 October, indicated that nest-building was underway earlier in that month. Eggs are laid as soon as the nest is complete. ‘The breeding season is protracted, clutches being found as late as 22 January (a fifth breeding attempt by a colour-ringed pair) and 4 February. Four colour-ringed pairs at Blenden Hall built one, two, four and five successive nests, respectively, between 25 October and 22 January. Three of these nests were completed but abandoned before laying. The interval between failed and replacement nests was from one to fifteen days. Nest Nests are built by the female and situated on the ground (n=7) or 40-100 cm above it (mean 70 cm; n=7) in bundles of sloping or bent- over tussock. Repeat nests were located an average of 3:8+ 2-0 m (range 0-2-4:5; n=7) from failed nests. The nests are open (undomed) and oval or nearly circular. The average dimensions (cm) of five nests were: external length 11-7 (range 11-0—14-0); external breadth 10-0 (8-:5—12:-5); cup length 7-4 (6-5—9-0); cup width 6-4 (5:5—8-0); cup depth 4-9 (4:5—6-0). Nests are built entirely of tussock leaves, the base and walls with relatively long, broad leaves, the cup lined with shorter, finer ones. One nest, completed in four days, comprised 1287 tussock leaves distributed as follows (measurements in cm): base 418 leaves (13-4+7:-1; range 3—54), cup 616 leaves (8:7 + 4-8; 3-40), lining 253 leaves (5-4+4-0; 1-18). The female made an average of 8-4+1-1 visits per hour to the nest during building. The duration of such visits was 1-1+1-1 min (range 0-1-10-0; n=170). Trips to collect nest material averaged 2:7+4-9 min (range 0-2—34-0; n=162). The distance travelled could be estimated on 78 occasions, and averaged 13:5+9-6 m (range 0:5—40-0). Nest building took four (n=1) or five (n=1) days. On two occasions the male brought strands of tussock to the nest site, but the material was dropped when the bird sang from tussock above the nest. The male fed the female at the nest only once during nest building. At another nest, the female brought strands of tussock to the nest on one occasion on the 12th and 14th days of incubation. Eggs Tristan Bunting clutches comprise one (n= 2) or two eggs (n=10). The eggs are pale blue with a light scattering of small faint brownish-purple spots at the sharp end and a variable amount of larger irregularly shaped spots concentrated at the blunt end where the ground colour may be completely obscured. Eggs average 24:2 +0-9 mm long (range 22-5—26-0; M. W. Fraser & D. F. Briggs 194 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) n=9) and 17:2+0-9 mm broad (16°5—19-0; n=9). The laying of the first and second eggs in two clutches was separated by maxima of 15-0 h and 16:5h. Incubation The incubation period of 18 days was determined for one egg only. Incubation is undertaken exclusively by the female. Hagen (1952) pre- sumed, on the basis of the presence of bare brood patches, that the male also incubated. At one nest, watched for 11:7 h over six days from the day of laying to four days before hatching, the female spent 74:5 % of the time on the eggs. The average duration of incubation sessions was 17:-4+13-6 min (range 3:0-43-8; n=23). Absences from the nest were an average of 6:-5+13-0 min (range 0:2—67:2; n= 27). The incubating female was fed by her mate 17 times at the nest and seven times >1m distant. The overall daily feeding rate of the female by the male was 2:8+1:7 per hour (range 1:9-6:2; n=6). The female was fed once c.20m from the nest by an unringed adult male (not her mate). Another nest was watched for 32-5 h during incubation over 10 days up to two days before the eggs hatched. The laying date is unknown, but on the basis of an incubation period of 18 days, may be backdated to six days before observations commenced. The female spent 85:5 % of this time on the eggs. Incubation sessions averaged 12:9+8-9 min (range 0:2—42:7; n=68). Absences from the nest were an average of 3:6+3-4 min (range 0-1—-17:2; n=77). The male fed the female on the nest (n= 1), in tussock directly above the nest (n=70), or further away up to 50m distant (n= 18). The daily average rate of such feeds was 2:7 + 0:8 per hour (range 1-0—3:0; n=10). Feeding was preceded by the male calling chit and the incubating female twittering softly in response, but louder when she left the nest and flew with the male to a feeding perch or if the male did not approach the nest. The male regurgitated food directly into the female’s bill as she perched below or, once only, above him on a vertical or near vertical tussock stem. The female wing-quivered while soliciting food and being fed. The male often lingered to sing near the nest after feeding the female. If the female had not been fed for a relatively long period, she uttered a soft, enquiring tchip call from the nest. Thereafter she emerged and flew off or remained to forage on the ground or from the leaves of Rumex plants near the nest. Nestling The Tristan Bunting nestling apparently has not been described. An eight-day-old chick is described as follows: Plumage. Ventral tracts: throat feathers creamy white with blue-grey base. Dorsal tracts: feathers ochreous dark olive with black centres, paling towards tail. Head down dark grey. Primaries nearly black; secondaries dark grey fading distally, tipped pale buff. Bull pale purple with off-white base and cutting edges. Gape flange pale yellow. Gape pale pink, tongue dark pink. Legs and feet pale purplish-brown. Skin pale flesh-pink. Iris dark brown. Observations were made at the second nest (above) for 28:2 h over 13 of the 19 days of the nestling period from the day of hatching. The growth of M.W. Fraser & D. 7. Briggs 195 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) the two chicks is shown in Figures 1 and 2. The primary and secondary quills of the A chick sprouted 8 days after hatching. The flight feathers of the B chick, which hatched on the same day, remained in quill until 13 days after hatching. The eyes of the A chick had opened partially by the 8th day, and fully by the 12th day after hatching. Sixteen days after hatching its primaries and secondaries were well sprouted and dark brown with pale buff edgings. The wing coverts and tertials were broadly tipped buff. The spinal tract feathers were up to 6mm in length and darkening at the base. The tail feathers had sprouted. The rear of the crown and nape were well-feathered and down remained only on the sides of the crown and sparsely on the lower spine. The B chick died 18 days after hatching, when it was 62% the mass of its sibling (which fledged the following day). The successful fledgling was fed by the parents for at least 3 days after leaving the nest. For the first 3 days after hatching the two nestlings were fed either by the female alone or via the male, who transferred food to her in the same way as he did during incubation. Subsequent visits by the male were on his own or with the female. The overall feeding rate, averaged for each day, was 5-7+1-3 feeds per hour (range 3-:9-8-1; n=13). Brooding of the chicks was by the female. The proportion of time spent brooding tended to decrease as the chicks grew older (Fig. 3). The average duration of brooding sessions was 6:2+7:4 min (range 0:2-33:0; n=86), again tending to decrease with increasing age of the nestlings. Absences from the nest by the female averaged 10:-5+9-7 min (range 0:2—40-:5; n=88), increasing as the chicks grew older. Removal of faeces from the nest was first observed 7 days after the chicks hatched and up to 4 days before fledging. This activity was carried out mainly by the female (17 times, as against the male’s 6). Breeding success, mortality and predation The fate of 14 eggs was determined; five hatched successfully, four failed to hatch, three were eaten by Tristan Thrushes and a c/2 was deserted, possibly because of heavy rain (65 mm in 24h. The average daily rainfall in that month (November) was 9:8 mm; C. P. Siddall). Two of seven nestlings fledged successfully, one died of unknown causes, and four were eaten by Tristan Thrushes. Tristan Buntings gave harsh chick chzick alarm calls and took cover in vegetation when Subantarctic Skuas Catharacta antarctica flew overhead. Tristan Buntings were recorded from only 0-1—0:2% of skua prey remains or regurgitates (Fraser 1984a, Ryan & Moloney 1991a), however, indicating that the skua does not severely affect the population as a whole. A female bunting alarm-called and took cover in tussock when a Swallow Hirundo rustica flew over. This is a rare vagrant to Inaccessible Island (Fraser 1984b) and presumably unfamiliar to the bunting. Tristan Thrushes prey upon bunting eggs, nestlings and fledglings (see also Ryan & Moloney 1991b). A female bunting attacked a Tristan Thrush which had approached to within 1 m of her nest, fluttering over the thrush and twice landing on its back and pecking it. The thrush then flew off and the bunting returned to her nest. M.W. Fraser & D. Ff. Briggs 196 MASS (g) 28 26 24 | 22 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) Qo Pei Sl A Oud Ong Ce WOnioe ni Op anil [Seay LNT SRLS ET ALND UGLIGN A INTO (all LTE PL 6) 7%) \8°2/9, 40) 44)! 112 448) 114) 25. 46 AGE OF CHICKS (DAYS) 12 13 14 15 16 AGE OF CHICKS (DAYS) Figure 1 (above). Increase in mass of Tristan Bunting nestlings. Birds A and B are siblings; A fledged 19 days after hatching, B died 18 days after hatching. C and D were b/1; both were eaten by Tristan Thrushes. Figure 2. Increase in wing (w), tarsus (t) and bill lengths (1) and bill depths (d) of a brood of two Tristan Buntings. The A chick (solid line) fledged 19 days after hatching; the B chick (dotted line) died after 18 days. M.W. Fraser & D. }. Briggs 197 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) © fo) oOo ie) nN (o) 7OTIME BROODING p= (oe) Ww xe Os 0123 45 6 7 8 910 11 1213 14 1516 17 AGE OF CHICKS (Days) ie) (e) Figure 3. Proportion of time spent brooding by a female Tristan Bunting. Stars indicate no data. Morphology and taxonomy The presence of age-related plumage phases in the Tristan Bunting is recognized (Hagen 1952). Previously undocumented, however, is the existence of two distinct and apparently habitat-related forms. In 1982-83 it was found that the plumages of birds on Inaccessible Island’s summit plateau were distinctly brighter and richer in colour, at all ages, than those found at sea level and on tussock-clad slopes up to the edge of the plateau. The possibility that this represented age-related plumage variations was precluded by the discovery of ‘upland’ nestlings whose colouration differed markedly from that of ‘lowland’ nestlings. A brilliant yellow gape flange, deep pink mouth and a rich yellow suffusion to the skin, particularly on the belly, were the most striking features of the ‘upland’ nestlings. A comparison of the nestlings of the two forms is given in Table 1. The ‘upland’ nestling was collected near North Point (c. 300m a.s.1.) on 22 December 1982 and estimated to be 14 days old. The ‘lowland’ nestling from Blenden Hall was 16 days old. Table 2 compares the plumages of ‘upland’ and ‘lowland’ breeding female Tristan Buntings. Both birds were collected on the nest, the ‘low- land’ at sea level at Blenden Hall on 4 February 1983, the ‘upland’ from the island plateau at c.350m a.s.l. on 11 December 1982. Adult males were not collected, but the ‘upland’ form was distinctly more brightly coloured than the ‘upland’ female and his lowland counterpart. We obtained very few mensural data of full-grown ‘upland’ buntings, but these indicated no differences between the forms (Tables 3 and 4). There appeared to be no differences in general habits that could not be explained by differences in, for example, vegetation composition (the lowland form feeds extensively on the seeds of Spartina, which is less abundant on the plateau). This distinct form has gone unrecognized because very few observations previously have been made on the island plateau. More importantly, specimens had not been obtained there previously, all having been collected at or near sea level in the lowlands or on coastal slopes where the bright birds, in our experience, do not occur. The Tristan Bunting on Inaccessible Island is classified as the same race, N. a. acunhae, which formerly occurred on Tristan. However, there M. W. Fraser & D. F. Briggs Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) TABLE 1 Comparison of ‘upland’ and ‘lowland’ forms of ‘Tristan Bunting nestlings Upland Head Down pale grey, quills dark slate-grey Throat Yellow Breast Vivid yellow Back Feathers rich dark ochreous olive, centred black Thigh Yellow, quills slate-grey Wing Primaries almost black; secondaries dark grey, fading distally, tipped pale buff; tertials dark grey, inner two tipped yellow-buff. Primary coverts almost black edged olive; greater coverts black with yellow tips and edges of outer webs; median and lesser coverts yellow-buft centred black. Bare parts Upper mandible dark olive, cutting edge bright yellow, lower mandible bright yellow. Gape flange bright yellow, mouth deep rose pink. Legs and feet purplish- brown, claws tipped bright yellow. Skin pale pink with a rich suffusion of bright yellow, particularly on the belly. Lowland Down grey, quills light blue-grey Off-white Off-white Feathers dull olive, centred black Olive, quills blue-grey Primaries dark with pale buff edging; secondaries washed-out grey, outer webs narrowly edged light olive; tertials washed-out grey, broadly tipped buff. Primary and median coverts dark brown, edged pale olive-grey; lesser coverts olive-brown edged olive. Bill pale purple, base and cutting edges off-white. Gape flange off-white, mouth pink. Legs and feet pale purple, claws tipped off-white. Skin dark flesh pink. exists only one specimen (the type) collected on Tristan, precluding taxonomic comparisons (Stresemann 1953). Nightingale birds N. a. questi are smaller in most respects than those from Inaccessible (Abbott 1978). The Nightingale form is described as racially distinct on this basis (Lowe 1923), although there is considerable overlap between the birds of both islands. Wilkins’ Bunting Wilkins’ Bunting is similar to the Tristan Bunting in colour, but is slightly larger and has a strikingly heavy bill. It is by far the rarer of the two species at Inaccessible. Habitat and population size At Blenden Hall, Wilkins’ Buntings were observed in Phylica and, to a lesser extent, in tussock. They were rarely encountered on the island plateau, and then only in Phylica. The birds occurred singly or in pairs. M.W. Fraser S&S D. F. Briggs Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) TABLE 2 Comparison of breeding female ‘upland’ and ‘lowland’ forms of Tristan Bunting Upland General appearance Bright yellow underparts and rich olive green upperparts, faintly streaked Upperparts Crown rich olive-green, centred black. Forehead similar but more yellow. Nape, mantle and upper back feathers olive with faint dark central streak. Lower back and rump uniform unstreaked light olive. Underparts Chin off-white. Rest of underparts rich cadmium yellow, brightest on throat and breast, paling slightly towards vent. Undertail coverts rich golden yellow. Wing Primaries almost black, outer webs narrowly edged rich yellow-olive. Secondaries and tertials almost black, broadly edged ochreous olive. Primary coverts almost black, edged pale olive. Small feathers almost black, broadly edged pale yellow-olive; lesser coverts broadly tipped olive. Tail Dark brown with bright yellow outer webs, brightest at base of two outer tail feathers Bare parts Upper mandible dark grey, base yellow. Lower mandible bright yellow. Legs and feet pale brownish-purple, claws tipped bright yellow. Iris dark brown. Lowland Dull, washed-out green, broadly streaked on back Front of crown and centre of forehead greenish yellow with dark centres; sides of forehead yellow. Grey on lores and below eye. Feathers from central crown to lower back pale greyish-green indistinctly broadly-centred black. Rump feathers unstreaked. Chin off-white, throat pale lemon-yellow. Rest of underparts pale washed-out yellow fading to almost white at vent; undertail coverts pale lemon yellow. Primaries dark grey with narrow greyish- yellow border, inner two bordered olive. Secondaries and tertials dark grey, broadly edged grey-green. Primary coverts dark grey edged greenish. Median and lesser coverts dark grey broadly edged dirty-olive. Almost black, outer webs narrowly edged bright yellow Upper mandible dark grey with paler cutting edge; lower mandible pale grey. Legs and feet dark brown, claws tipped off-white. Iris dark brown. They were most often seen in Phylica (possibly just because they were more conspicuous there), but also foraged on the ground and amongst tussock and short ferns on Blenden Hall. One bird was captured in a walk-in trap (set for flightless rails Atlantisia rogersi) on the ground in dense tussock up to 2 m high. Nine birds were mistnetted and uniquely colour-ringed in the Phylica grove at Skua Bog in November 1982. Eight of these birds were not seen again. An adult male remained there for at least 18 days, often in company with a female, presumably its mate. This high turnover indicates that some birds are mobile. The Phylica copse at Skua Bog represents the only relatively extensive area of this vegetation type at Blenden Hall (although M. W. Fraser & D. }. Briggs 200 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) TABLE 3 Measurements of ‘lowland’ Tristan Buntings (linear measurements in mm, mass in g) Middle Hind’ Bill Bill Wing ‘Tail ‘Tarsus toe toe Culmen width depth Mass Adult males Mean 83.2 71.0 25.9 25.5 19.8 14.4 7.0 10.2 29.2 SD Le, 4.0 123 1.3 1.6 0.5 a 0.3 2.6 Range 81-87 64-77 24-27.5 24-26.5 17.5-21 13.5-15 10-10.5 24.5-34 n 13 11 18 4 4 13 4 4 11 Adult females Mean 80.6 66.6 24.4 24.7 19.0 14.6 75) 9.2 27.9 SD 1.8 4.0 0.6 14 1.4 0.4 OF 0.3 1.0 Range 79-83 61-72 24-25 2425.5 18-20 14-15 7-8 9-9.5 26.5-29 n 5 5 5 2 2 5 2 2 5 Unsexed subadults Mean 80.0 69.4 26.2 25.8 1/83 14.2 W833) 9.7 DTS SD 1.4 B23 17 2.4 0.3 0.7 0.6 0.6 2.9 Range 79-82 64-72 24-28 24-28.5 17-17.5 13-14.5 7-8 9-10 24-31 n 6 6 6 3 3 6 3 3 5 TABLE 4 Measurements of ‘upland’ Tristan Buntings (linear measurements in mm, mass in g) Age Middle Hind Bill Bill and sex Wing ‘Tail ‘Tarsus toe toe Culmen width depth Mass Imm 80 68 23 2565 175 13K 8 8.5 2955 Imm 3 82 74 24 26.5 19 14.5 8 9.5 D5ki Ad 82 71 23 24.5 1725 14 7 9 33.0 Mean 81.3 71 23:3) a2 50 18 14 HAT, 9 29.4 SD ibe 3.0 0.6 1.0 0.9 0.5 0.6 0.5 3.6 TABLE 5 Measurements of Wilkins’ Buntings (linear measurements in mm, mass in g) Middle Hind Bill Bill Wing ‘Tail Tarsus toe toe Culmen width depth Mass Males Mean 92 74.8 291.2 26 22 18.5 9.5 13.9 44.2 SD Le 3.4 6 2.3 1.6 0.3 0.6 0.5 1.9 Range 91-95 73-80 28.5-30 24.5-29 20.5-24 18-19 8.5-10 13-14.5 41-44.5 n 6 6 6 4 4 6 6 6 6 Females/immatures Mean 92 79.2 292 28.3 22.0 18.9 9.2 14 42.3 SD ileal 4.3 Lev 125 1.0 0.5 0.3 — 0.8 Range 91-93 73-82 27-31 27-30 21-23 18.5-19.5 9-9.5 — 41.8-43.5 n 4 4p 4 3 3 4 8 3 4 M.W. Fraser & D. F. Briggs 201 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) isolated individuals and small groups of trees are thinly scattered amongst the tussock there), and is some 3 km distant and 500 m below the main areas of Phylica on the island plateau. There are approximately 4:5 km? of sparse to dense Phylica woodland on Inaccessible, mainly in the northeast of the plateau. If Wilkins’ Bunting occurs exclusively in Phylica, and the grove at Skua Bog (which supported a minimum of one pair) is representative of this vegetation type elsewhere on the island, then the population at Inaccessible may be in the order of 200 pairs. This may be larger if there is a mobile contingent, and if the birds are not wholly dependent upon Phylica. Elliott (1957) estimated 30 pairs of and 30 young Wilkins’ Buntings on Nightingale in 1953. Later estimates by Elliott (in Vincent 1966-1971) suggested populations of 70-120 birds on Nightingale and 40—90 on Inaccessible. Richardson (1984) estimated 30 pairs on Nightingale in 1973-1974. The total population of Wilkins’ Bunting has never been large, therefore, and may be in the region of c. 500 birds. On the basis of the number of specimens collected Abbott (1978) concluded that Wilkins’ Bunting was more abundant on Nightingale than Inaccessible, despite the larger area of the latter. This is unlikely to be the case, however, as the number of birds collected on Nightingale reflects rather the relative ease of landing on and access to the interior of the island and the consequently high number of scientific visits there compared to Inaccessible. Food The large bill of Wilkins’ Bunting allows it, and not the relatively light-billed Tristan Bunting, to feed upon the hard fruits of Phylica. Wilkins’ Buntings tested these with their bills, rejecting many and appearing to pluck and process the blackest (presumably ripest) ones. At Blenden Hall they also foraged in uniform stands of tussock, feeding from the seed heads or on the ground. The buntings methodically searched under and removed invertebrates from the leaves of Rumex. Hagen (1952) reported a variety of vegetable and invertebrate remains in stomachs of Inaccessible birds. In contrast, those on Nightingale appear to feed almost exclusively on Phylica and other fruits (Hagen 1952, Elliott 1957, Richardson 1984). Breeding No Wilkins’ Bunting nests or eggs were found. Males defended territories at Skua Bog and sang from exposed perches from early November on Inaccessible. An adult feeding two newly fledged chicks was seen in January on the plateau (M. K. Swales, in Collar & Stuart 1985). Broekhuysen & Macnae (1949) collected a juvenile on Nightingale in March, indicating fledging in February. Elliott (1957) reports eggs and young at Nightingale in December and January and a fledged but dependent chick in early April. Morphology and taxonomy The measurements of 10 birds caught at Blenden Hall are given in Table 5. Our average figures are slightly larger in all respects apart from M.W. Fraser & D. Ff. Briggs 202 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(3) bill width than three birds measured by Hagen (1952). Although wing- length and, particularly, mass are greater than those of Nightingale birds, our small sample suggests that the size difference between the races is perhaps not as marked as Hagen (1952) contends. Measurements of Nightingale birds given by Abbott (1978) are not comparable because of differences in measuring techniques. The male of the Inaccessible race N. w. dunnei has not been described. One, captured at Blenden Hall on 8 November 1982, is described as follows. (A photograph of the head of this individual appears in Sinclair 1984, p. 336.) Upperparts: Forehead and front of crown bright olive-yellow with black centres; rest of crown similar but less bright. Fairly conspicuous short bright yellow eyestripe. Lores and front of ear coverts greenish off-white. Nape dark olive, finely streaked black; back and mantle dark greenish-yellow finely streaked black. Rump dark greenish-yellow. Upper tail coverts slightly more greenish than rump. Outer webs of tail feathers bright yellow, inner webs pale yellow on outermost feathers, darkening to almost black on central ones. Underparts: Throat bright yellow. Upper breast slightly paler yellow; belly, flanks and undertail coverts similar but with a slight olive tinge. Primaries uniform dark grey with bright yellow margin c. 1mm wide on outer web. Secondaries as primaries but with broader yellow margin (up to 2 mm). Tertials generally darker with yellow margin broadening to 4mm on inner tertial. Primary coverts as primaries with narrow faint yellow margin on both edges. Greater coverts darker than secondaries, with yellow reaching the quill at feather tip and up to 4mm broad. Median coverts dark, tipped up to 5mm with yellow and with black central stripe. Lesser coverts greenish-yellow, slightly less bright than medians. Underwing coverts pale yellow, dark at base; very sparse or almost absent. Bare parts: Upper mandible dark, almost black with grey tip and cutting edge. Lower mandible slightly paler than upper. Iris dark brown. Legs dark purplish-brown; claws of front toes slightly darker than legs, hind claw almost black. Rictal bristles absent; brood patch bare but unvascularised; large cloacal protuberance. Measurements (mm): Total length 184; wing (flattened chord) 91; tail 87; culmen18; bill depth 13-5; bill width 11; tarsus 29; middle toe 24-5 (with claw of 3-0); hind toe 24 (with claw of 13). Mass 41-1 g Wing formula: P1 minute, 11-5 mm enc ro. ei esley 2d ule hie even suetja sects 514 Secretarsal "4b" thease te koticoe (adey ic, STS eee, Mee ea eee 118 pLelephonewieachs = Site tela ssh el De kohehe geen sages 250 EstSUranices spheres) ce ule renege el Kay R RCL oe Mee Tee ree ke PACCOUTIEATICY, 19) «fst Sc Note Wamee io tes Rea eee Maley teicceae erem ies eee Bankicharges agi bye oti be oa ai sk ceca ela ne emt be exeditcard' charges...) 2 Wns ed ee ee ete ele Ua ere Miscellaricoisy= 89 Fe 53513 pe a eee A ec lomnca ae Excess of Income over Expenditure/(Excess of Expenditure over Income) 24) 3) 75 Piao ee 4 ee ke ea Cee eee Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) 176 (147) (636) 13,224 1,025 289 881 99 (385) 12,332 (720) Accounts 212 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) British Ornithologists’ Club Balance Sheet as at 31 December 1991 1991 1990 £ £ £ £ General Fund Balancelatwm) anuaryslOO lweerseew ect weiiciiel seitentenentenicl eucarcrrclicmes 32,203 32,923 Add: Excess of income over expenditure... ............ 1,025 (720) Balance at 31 December 1991 33,228 32,203 Barrington Trust Fund Balance at 1 January 1991 & at SliDecemberslOOiie.y aunsursseclov ot tae Wesiro cm each rchrell le ste iskes $77 577 Stevens Bequest Fund Balancejatiujanuanyal OOM eens tuetell sit Caen sme ricui nde emir tie 92,568 60,568 Sale‘ofipartiofjfreehold) property) -)))). /-yage us ysis cues elie dette 62,668 —_ SaleiofitChattels—-Net iriiecnucy ccs. elon ce) | sista lousy ies teak see tte eee 2,511 _ Property;Revaluation' yas eatin). chek-lake tok: ae ena elec = 32,000 Balancejat3iiDecemnber 1991 ys sucdomistial eaieirano ea emiauvoun 157,747 92,568 191,552 125,348 Represented by: Barrington Trust Fund Investment Charity Fund 111.57 COIF Income shares ............ 577 577 Stevens Bequest Fund Investment Freehold|Property/(Building Plots)))0/. wine sie ei wtih coh «deuce ene 85,000 90,000 COTFENo SQA ccountipnsdenewalieliciauvceh circle) Kecse ocean cepts 72,485 —_— 157,485 90,000 Fixed assets Projectioniequipment'} 2) 2 yor aus fice els tetieuaionetnen sa ei tells 100 100 Current Assets StockiofBulletinye ysis icy tei elucbe ie ya ae Maier ie eaten sal aca Ee pang 100 100 Stockiofities ween care dch pals cuts cope mecca met cr lstsrateat ten ote ead ra Pa 300 —_ Gashiins Flanders ines ei) tia ree al oom SELATAN Fe 44 41 Cash at Bank—Barclays Prime Account ............... 6,007 3,810 —Lloyds Current Account ............/.. 2 59 —Lloyds High Interest Account ............ — 3,914 —-Post'Office'Giro;Account -) pis) eye 37 114 —COIF Deposit Account 2 )%).0.2 6. on ee 35,564 33,484 SundrysDebtors ihe leic alt cae nie ectey oul se ap ereu eut Sia) Seles rel neh ean 291 15 42,345 41,537 Current Liabilities Subscriptions received in advance —Members (1992-1994) .....-.-.-+--2--..- 1,998 1,572 —Non-member Subscribers .............. 1,404 899 Sundry/Greditorsiiy ia iite Mia ene neles euler eu eu nett nny ele Ry au( 5,553 4,395 (8,955) (6,866) 191,552 125,348 AUDITORS’ REPORT To the Members of BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB We have audited the financial statements in accordance with Auditing Standards. In our opinion the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Charity’s affairs at 31 December 1991 and of its Income and Expenditure for the year then ended. Prince Albert House, 20 King Street, DONALD REID & CO., Maidenhead, Berks Registered Auditors 5 May 1992 Approved by the Committee on 19 May 1992 R. E. F. PEAL, Chairman F.. Dowsett-Lemaire 213 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) On the vocal behaviour and habitat of the Maned Owl Fubula letti in south-western Congo by Francoise Dowsett-Lemaire Received 17 October 1991 From the scattering of existing specimens the Maned Owl Jubula letti appears fairly widely distributed in the Guineo-Congolian Region (Colston, in Snow 1978), but its biology and voice have so far remained unknown. From a few observations and captures over 20 years in north- eastern Gabon, Brosset & Erard (1986) believed that this species was restricted to primary rain forest particularly rich in lianes. During a 6-month ecological study of the Kouilou basin of southwestern Congo (Dowsett & Dowsett-Lemaire 1991), I found that Jubula lettit was, on the contrary, exclusively tied to the vicinity of water, and reached very high densities in both permanently and seasonally flooded forest. It was extremely noisy throughout the rains, which made it relatively easy to census. Presumably its confinement to swampy habitats, often difficult of access, explains why it had remained so poorly known. This paper describes for the first time the voice and vocal habits of territorial adults; the densities observed in wet forest may be the highest so far recorded for any African owl. The study area Field work was carried out from mid-August 1990 to the end of January 1991, and for a week in mid-April 1991, in the lower Kouilou basin of Congo, from the coast to the Mayombe mountain chain which starts c. 40 km inland. The altitudinal range is 0-670 m, but most land in the sublittoral plains lies below 100m. Four main habitats occur in the region: dry-land rain forest (continuous in the Mayombe, and in a forest- savanna mosaic nearer the coast), seasonally flooded forest (c. 600 km? in the lower basin), papyrus-Raphia swamp and savanna grassland. Co-ordinates of the four localities where Fubula was recorded are: 04°02’S, 11°50’E (Béna, in the western Mayombe); 04°16’S, 11°47’E (Ménengué); 04°19’S, 11°47’E (Koubotchi); 04°31’S, 11°53’E (Lac Titina). The last three sites are all in the sublittoral plains, 10-20 km inland, where a dry-land mosaic of sandy savanna and rain forest surrounds extensive flooded forest. The vegetation at Bena is mainly secondary rain forest, with swampy palm forest along streams. Koubotchi was visited monthly (2—8 days) from late August to January; Béna and Ménengué for several days each month from September to December, also in April; and Lac Titina only once, in November. Several other sites of dry-land rain forest were explored in the Mayombe from September to January (and also during an earlier visit in May—June 1989), but no Jubula were recorded there. F.. Dowsett-Lemaire 214 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) The rains normally start in October and end in May, the period of flooding lasting from November until May or June. Detailed accounts of the vegetation and avifauna of the area are published elsewhere (Dowsett-Lemaire 1991, Dowsett-Lemaire & Dowsett 1991). Vocal behaviour Jubula lettii was completely silent in late August—early September at Koubotchi (8 nights), the first song was heard at Bena on 13 September (on one of 4 nights there), and singing was still infrequent in late September (2 nights of mild activity out of 7, Ménengué). By early November, when the forests started to flood, Jubula became extremely noisy, calling at all hours of the night and sometimes even by day, and remained very active until my last check in January. During a short visit in April 1991, several were heard singing (Ménengue). Vocalisations consist of two song-types, in addition to isolated 00-ooh notes. The characteristic timbre of all vocalisations is soft for an owl, rather dove-like, and higher-pitched than in the African Wood Owl Strix woodfordiu. The song of FJubula might be confused with that of a dove especially when heard by day (except that no African dove sings exactly like that). At close range the 00-o00h notes sound slightly vibrated, but are not modulated as in Strix. The modulated and low-pitched ooh-oowe note presented by Chappuis (1978) as belonging possibly to FJubula, is in my opinion none other than a call of male Strix woodfordi (from its pitch, timbre and modulation). Two different Strix woodfordi tested in the Mayombe did indeed react to playback of its recording, whereas no Strix ever reacted to my numerous playbacks of Jubula songs (although it was often present next to Jubula). Unfortunately Kemp in Fry et al. (1988) treats the identity of Chappuis’s recording as established fact, despite Chappuis’s (1978) clear indication that his identification was only tentative. Song- -type | is the more stereotyped of the two and is made up of three sections, an initial o0-o0o0h, aseries of 4 to 7 (usually) identical oo notes with a slight hesitation after the first, and ends invariably with two notes 00-ooh, oo, the first being strongly accentuated (Fig. 1). During excited vocal exchanges with neighbours some birds produce up to 8 notes in the middle section and may repeat the ending once. The whole sequence lasts from 7 to 9 sec. The bird that I recorded at Bena called for several hours (with long intervals of silence), and never varied from the pattern of 1+4+2 notes. It was probably an unmated male; when I returned to the area in November, a pair was calling together as is usual. Song-type 2 lasts about the same length, may start with an isolated 00- ooh or launch straight away into one or two series of single 00 (often 5—7), and is usually followed by a variable number (3—5) of double notes dooloo- dooloo-dooloo . . . Either song has been heard occasionally during the day, and either may start an exchange between partners. The unmated bird at Béna also gave loud 00-0o0h notes in isolation (similar to the initial note of song-type 1), and this is also often used in duets. It is possible that song- type 1 belongs to males and 2 to females, but that cannot be tested without collecting calling birds. F. Dowsett-Lemaire 215 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) As arule, partners first establish contact at dusk (about 18.40—18.50 hrs in December), the second bird starting its song before the first one has finished. Then they are quiet for a while (20-40 minutes), presumably during a spell of active feeding. They resume song afterwards when more exchanges with neighbouring pairs take place, especially around 19.30— 20.00 hrs, but they carry on at all hours of the night until a final duet at dawn. Birds calling by day do so in isolation, apparently from fixed roost sites (one bird at Ménengue was calling from the same spot for several months). The voice never sounds very loud, even at close range, but easily carries 500—600 m, and up to 1 kmif one listens from an exposed situation such as a hill outside forest. Playback experiments were tried on numerous occasions but failed to provoke any answer in September, except once (perhaps by chance). From November, tape playback regularly prompted the nearest one or two pairs into song, but consistently failed to get them to move nearer the source of sound. Calling birds are exceedingly difficult to see as they hide behind tangles of foliage. In the active participation of both sexes, and especially the general pattern of songs, the nearest relative of Jubula lettii in Africa appears to be Strix woodfordiu. The characteristic dove timbre, however, and details of rhythm and syntax make confusion impossible. On the other hand, the very low raucous voice of the neotropical Crested Owl Lophostrix cristata (sometimes considered to be closely related to Jubula, cf. Brosset & Erard 1986) bears absolutely no relation to that of either Fubula letti or Strix woodfordu. It would certainly seem preferable to retain Jubula letti in its own genus. Habitat and densities At Meénengue, Koubotchi and Lac Titina, the main habitat occupied by Fubula is seasonally flooded forest, with a canopy 30-35 m tall. The more common trees are Ctenolophon englerianus, Sacoglottis gabonensis and Vitex doniana; some have well-developed stilt-roots (Uapaca guineensis, Xylopia rubescens). Except in gaps filled by low thickets, the understorey is fairly open, with little herbaceous growth, but many saplings or small trees (mainly of Melastomataceae, Martretia quadricornis, Raphia sp.). Large lianes are less abundant than in adjacent dry-land rain forest. Jubula also inhabits the permanently flooded forest on the fringes of lakes (L. Titina, L. Nanga at Ménengueé), which has a more open canopy dominated by Chrysobalanus icaco (Dowsett-Lemaire 1991). About 120 species of birds live in these wet forests, of which the more characteristic (and often quite numerous) include the Tiger Heron Tigriornis leuco- lophus, Grey-throated Rail Canirallus oculeus, Bouvier’s Fishing Owl Scotopelia bouvieri, Bates’s Nightjar Caprimulgus batesi, Shining-blue Kingfisher Alcedo quadribrachys, Black-headed Bee-eater Merops breweri and White-browed Forest Flycatcher Fraseria cinerascens (Dowsett- Lemaire & Dowsett 1991). Strix woodfordii is common in adjacent dry-land rain forest, and ventures only marginally into flooded forests. At all three sites of flooded forest, densities of Jubula as judged by the location of calling pairs in November—January are extremely high. At Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) F.. Dowsett-Lemaire “yore das Z 19A0 ysnf 918 Saj30U OM} ASE] PUL STY} UIAMJOq PUR UOT}DeS e[PPHu puke 910U Is UVEMIjaq S[BAIdIUT “(aquiokesA[) Cuag 3B papsooai (suOT}Ias ¢ UT ‘| 9dAy-BuUOSs) 227327 DjNGng Jo ad4}-3uOs ules] “] ons 23S F. Dowsett-Lemaire 217 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) L. Titina as many as six duetting pairs could be heard simultaneously. At Koubotchi 25 ha of flooded forest were occupied by four pairs, giving overall densities of 16 pairs/km’. At Ménengué where the forest is floristically less diverse, densities were 6 to, 8 pairs/km? (measured over 2 km’). Taking the latter figure, the 600 km? of flooded forest in the area could hold at least 4000 pairs of Fubula. In the Mayombe, the preferred habitat is far more local and so is the owl: a few pairs are present in the Béna area, along narrow swampy sections of palm forest (Elaeis guineensis, Raphia hookert) bordering streams; other tree species (such as Sterculia tragacantha) are mainly of secondary forest. The owls seem immune to heavy human disturbance caused by villagers collecting palm wine. On occasion Jubula does visit dry-land forest away from its territory. At Meénengué, a 12-ha patch of dry secondary forest isolated in the middle of grassy savanna was regularly visited (at least every other night) by one or the other member of a pair living in the swamp forest below, judging by calls and the sighting of a bird at dusk flying across the 300-m gap. I once played a tape of song-type 1 after a bird had advertised its presence with song-type 2, and it left promptly to return and call with its mate down below. R.J. Dowsett and I set up a net once over flooded forest and found a feather of FJubula in the bottom shelf just over the water; a bird at dusk was on one occasion seen flopping its wings rather noisily against a wall of leaves on the edge of forest, perhaps to flush prey. The high densities observed could be related to an insect diet, as is suggested by the limited data available from stomach contents elsewhere (Chapin 1939, Brosset & Erard 1986). Densities of up to 16 pairs/km* are undoubtedly the highest for any forest owl, and in wooded savanna only the small insectivorous African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis can approach such figures in optimal habitat (pers. obs. in Malawi). The only published account of densities in Strix woodfordii is from riparian forest in northern Transvaal, where there are 1-2 pairs/km* (Kemp & Kemp 19839). Acknowledgement The ecological study of the lower Kouilou basin was conducted on behalf of the petrol company Conoco Congo Ltd, who generously financed the field work. References: Brosset, A. & Erard, C. 1986. Les otseaux des régions forestiéres du nord-est du Gabon. Vol. 1. Société Nationale de Protection de la Nature, Paris. Chapin, J. P. 1939. The birds of the Belgian Congo. Part 2. Bull. Amer. Mus. Nat. Hist. 65: 1-632. Chappuis, C. (ed.) 1978. Les otseaux de l’ Ouest africain. Sound supplement to Alauda. Disc no. 9(ALA 18). Paris. Dowsett, R. J. & Dowsett-Lemaire, F. (eds) 1991. The flora and fauna of the Kouilou basin (Congo) and their exploitation. Tauraco Res. Rep. 4, 340 pp. Dowsett-Lemaire, F. 1991. The vegetation of the Kouilou basin in Congo. Tauraco Res. Rep. 4: 17-51. Dowsett-Lemaire, F. & Dowsett, R. J. 1991. The avifauna of the Kouilou basin in Congo. Tauraco Res. Rep. 4: 189-239. fishy H., Keith , S. & Urban, E. K. (eds) (1988). The Birds of Africa. Vol. 111. Academic ress. P. A. Clancey 218 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Kemp, A. C. & Kemp, M. I. 1989. The use of sonograms to estimate density and turnover of Wood Owls in riparian forest. Ostrich, suppl. 14: 105-110. Snow, D. W. (ed.) 1978. An Atlas of Speciation in African Non-passerine Birds. British Museum (Natural History), London. Address: F. Dowsett-Lemaire, Rue de Bois de Breux 194, B-4020 Jupille-Liége, Belgium. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 ‘Taxonomic comment on southeastern representatives of two wide-ranging African cisticolas by P. A. Clancey Received 1 November 1991 Conclusions arrived at from studies of material in southern African col- lections of southeastern populations of two wide-ranging Afrotropical cisticolas, namely the Pale-crowned or Pectoral-patch Cisticola (Sibley & Monroe 1990) Cisticola brunnescens and the Rattling Cisticola C. chiniana, are presented hereunder. In both instances new subspecific taxa are introduced. Cisticola brunnescens Heuglin, 1862 Such material as is available reveals that two forms of cloudscraper cisticola of C. brunnescens-type occur along the southeastern littoral of the Southern African Subregion between the eastern Transkei and the Limpopo R. flood-plain of southern Mozambique. One of these corre- sponds with the southernmost of the two subspecies of brunnescens cur- rently recognised from regions lying to the south of the Zambezi, namely, C. b. egregius (Roberts), 1913: Wakkerstroom, southeastern Transvaal, whereas the second is undescribed. Structurally this innominate form does not differ from C. brunnescens, but is somewhat smaller than egregius, in addition to being markedly darker in colour and strikingly streaked with black dorsally. As both have been collected alongside one another during the southern winter months, as at Fossil Head Reserve, eastern ‘Transkei, and again on the Limpopo flood-plain, the possibility that dis- crete sibling species rather than conspecifics are involved 1n this instance requires to be addressed. Firstly, only birds of egregius-type are known from the breeding grounds of C. b. egregius on the plateau of the Transvaal and upper Natal and the lowlands of Mozambique to the east at the same time, while those of the innominate form are entirely coastal and of seemingly sedentary disposition. Maclean (1985) has, however, drawn attention to the fact that in the grasslands of the Natal midlands (elevations not given), the Pale- crowned Cisticola is ‘‘a summer breeding visitor only’’, yet the Durban Natural Science Museum collection has a specimen dated 11 July from P. A. Clancey 2t9 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) near Mooi River, in the Natal midlands, at c. 4500 fta.s.1., this of egregius- type. Analogous phenotypes, some with comparable dates, both from interior Transvaal and coastal localities are as follows: ‘“‘Devils Knuckles”’ and “‘Krantzview’’, Barberton (13 and 29 May), Belfast, Wakkerstroom and Volksrust, and on the lowlands to the east at Incoluane (25°04'S, 32°56'E) (3 May), this particular specimen with an inordinately long tail of 41.5 mm, and from Chicumbane, Limpopo R., Mozambique (4 June). A coastal specimen taken somewhat later is a 9 from Fossil Head Reserve, Transkei (4 August). In the dark, blackish dorsally striated innominate form, two samples of 4 32 specimens from Bangazi North, Lake St Lucia, Zululand (27°39'S, 32°38’E) are dated 10 and 25 July, 1986 and 1987, and two (¢@) from Msinyeni Pan, Pongola R. 19 July, while two further ¢¢ from near Mtubatuba, Zululand (8 June) are comparable. A still earlier bird is one taken at Redhill, Durban, in April. From further north, the longer series from Chicumbane, Mozambique, comprises three examples of the light interior country phenotype—the dates for the entire series are 2—4 June 1971. Specimens taken later in the year are a g from Fossil Head Reserve, Transkei, dated 1 August, and a moulting ¢ taken on a disused airfield at Stamfordhill, Durban, on 19 September 1961. The available data support the view that lightly streaked birds breed in the grasslands of the southeastern plateau up to 5000+ fta.s.1., with some present—presumably migrants—on the littoral to the immediate east from early May through to September. On the other hand, dark birds with heavily streaked upper-parts are seemingly confined to the littoral. The two forms may be collected alongside one another, as at Fossil Head and on the lower Limpopo flood-plain, in which latter locality the Pale- crowned Cisticola is by far the commoner of the two small cloudscrapers present in the dry austral winter months, the other being the Fantailed Cisticola Cisticola juncidis terrestris. The prima facie impression that two discrete Cisticola spp. might be involved was lent a measure of credence by the treatment of C. brunnescens in Hall & Moreau’s Atlas of Speciation (1970), which depicts all recog- nised subspecies as being forms of more or less moist continental plateaux and highlands, with humid coast seemingly eschewed by the species. These factors notwithstanding, and allowing for the finding of a local tendency to migrate and a much wider level of altitudinal and ecological tolerance on the part of the present cisticola than previously established, two races of a single species require to be recognised, one breeding in the grasslands of the southeastern edge of the continental plateau of south- eastern Africa and the other along the coast; in this unique. Elements of the interior form spend their off-season within the breeding range of the littoral birds, which, lacking a name, may take the trinomen Cisticola brunnescens taciturnus subsp. nov. Type. 3 adult. Lalapanzi Game Ranch, near Mtubatuba, Zululand, Natal; 8 June 1982. Collected by J. C. Sinclair. In the collection of Durban Natural Science Museum, D. M. Reg. No. 33 847. P. A. Clancey 220 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Description. In non-breeding dress (May—July) differs from C. b. egregius in that the coronal shaft-streaks are much broader and deep black rather than dark brown; hind-neck more streaked with black on a lighter, less rufescent, ground, and mantle and scapulars Ochraceous-Buff rather than Buckthorn Brown (Ridgway 1912), with broader deep black shaft- streaks, the outer vanes of the lateral mantle feathers edged with white, as against light buffy olivaceous in egregius; rump Buckthorn Brown rather than Sudan Brown, and more invaded and streaked with fuscous. Underside whiter, with reduced buff wash laterally, and lateral breast surfaces largely immaculate. Wings duller; central rectrices of tail with broader, blacker medial streaks. First primary >12 mm. Size ranging smaller. In breeding dress, adult male does not assume a blackish wash to the distal face and shows no development of a conspicuous streaked patch on either side of the upper breast. In recent material of egregius from the Natal midlands and East Griqualand males show prominent streaked pectoral patches and blackish obfuscation to the lores and distal orbital surfaces. Measurements (mm). Wings of 7 gd 48.5—53 (50.4), s.d. 1.56; tails 34-37 (35.4), s.d. 1.09. Wings of 7 99 46-48 (47.3), s.d. 0.69; tails of 3 35-37 (36.3). First primaries 12—15 (13.3) mm in 10 measured. Weights: 4 3d 10-10.8, 3 92 8.5-9.5 g. Measurements of the type. Wing (flattened) 51.5, culmen from base 12, tarsus 23, tail 37 mm. Material examined. 19—Transkei: Fossil Head Reserve, Mzamba; Natal: Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve (south coast), Redhill and Stamfordhill, Durban; Zululand: Nhlabane (Richards Bay), Mtubatuba district, Mziki (Phinda), Bangazi North (Lake St Lucia), Msinyeni Pan (Pongola R.); Mozambique: Manhica, Chicumbane (Limpopo R. flood-plain). Range. The coast and immediate interior of southeastern Africa from eastern Transkei, Natal and Zululand to Mozambique as far as the Limpopo R. flood-plain. Birds undertaking high aerial cruises, terminat- ing by plummeting to ground grass-cover, have been observed at Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve, just back from the coast in southern Natal, and breeding birds have recently been obtained at Nhlabane and Mziki, Phinda, in Zululand (15 January and 6 March 1992). A skin in breeding dress (27 September 1955) is also available from Manhicga, Mozambique, at 25°24'S, 32°48’E. Etymology. From Latin taciturnus, silent, in allusion to one of the species’ vernacular names, the Silent Cloud Cisticola. Remarks. Of fundamental zoogeographical import is that in the south of its range C. brunnescens is, in the case of the subspecies C. b. egregius of the high interior grasslands, allopatrically interposed between two races of the Cloud Cisticola Cisticola textrix (Vieillot), 1817, namely C. t. major and C. t. marleyi, whereas the humid coastal C. b. taciturnus 1s geographically sympatric with C. t. marleyi in parts of southern Mozambique and the northeast of Zululand. This points to the possibility that two siblings and not a single unitary species are involved in the two populations currently grouped in C. brunnescens to the south of the Limpopo. P. A. Clancey 221 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) The observation made by McLachlan & Liversidge (1970) that in southern Africa C. brunnescens in the course of its descent from its aerial cruise ‘‘does not give (audible) wing snaps, although it does so else- where,’’ may have some bearing on the nature of the issues dealt with in this note. Wing-lengths (mm) of the other two subspecies of C. brunnescens occurring in Africa south of the Zambezi are as follows: C. b. egregius, 11 3g 52-55 (53.3), s.d. 1.26; 4 92 47.549 (48.3). C. b. cinnamomeus, 23.35 52, 53; 4 92 46-47.5 (47.0). C. b. cinnamomeus is com- parably dark and heavily streaked as in C. b. taciturnus but on a redder or more saturated tawny ground. The tawny-buff wash to the breast and lateral surfaces, including the flanks, is also deeper in tone. In size it is similar to taciturnus. Cisticola chiniana (Smith), 1843 The International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature mandated in 1985 that compound generic names terminating in zcola are in future to be construed as of masculine gender. According to this ruling, the specific name of the Rattling Cisticola, introduced as Drymoica chiniana A. Smith, 1843, would, if chiniana were viewed as an adjective, have to become Cisticola chinianus. The name chiniana is, however, not adjectival but seemingly derives from the old Tswana name Ishwenyane, formerly used by native peoples for a range of hills near the present town of Zeerust in the western Transvaal (see Cole 1990). In the circumstances, chiniana as proposed by Smith is to be treated as a noun in apposition, the binomen of the Rattling Cisticola remaining as Cisticola chiniana; cf. Sibley & Monroe (1990). A re-examination of the geographical variation of this cisticola in southeastern Africa reveals that the dark southern taxa C. c. chiniana, the type-locality of which is Zeerust, and C.c. campestris (Gould), 1845: Durban, Natal, require to be viewed as centred on the thorn-country of the immediate northern and eastern aspects of the Drakensberg montane system of southeastern Africa. Nominate chiniana breeds no further north than the limits of the plateau of the Transvaal, and C. c. campestris reaches its range limits in the north on the littoral of Mozambique at E22iS: In sharp contrast to these findings, Irwin (1981), in his seminal Birds of Zimbabwe, records that in Zimbabwe C. c. chiniana has in the breeding dress the “‘crown only reddish, the back rather heavily streaked [with blackish brown] and edged with buff or pale brown.’ The Zimbabwean range is then given as “‘the Sabi Valley, the south-east lowveld and the Limpopo Valley westwards to the Ramaquabane R.”’ (at 21°33’S, 28°01'E). Adequate recent samples from the Thabazimbi district, Swartruggens, Groot Marico and other localities in the western Transvaal, and topotypical of nominate C. chiniana, differ markedly from the referred Zimbabwean population, having the dorsal streaking much heavier, and the coronal and hind-neck surfaces dull vinaceous or purplish-brown with broad dark shaft-streaking, and not bright sandy or ochraceous-rufous, and lack the zoned colour pattern described for P. A. Clancey 222 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Zimbabwe birds. Series available in Durban show that elements agreeing with those of Zimbabwe in having light rufous head-tops and hind- necks and greyish finely streaked backs extend west to the Thornveld Kalahari of eastern Botswana, where some examples even approach C.c. frater Reichenow, 1916: near Windhoek, Namibia, to result in the listing of the latter from southeastern Botswana (see Clancey 1990). ‘This the outcome of a measure of introgression rather than any movement in the Namibian subspecies, frater. From the formal taxonomic point of view it is desirable to view frater as being a purely Namibian subspecies in future, the southeastern Botswanan population referred to it being incorporated into what is in effect an undescribed taxon, which may be known as Cisticola chiniana vulpiniceps subsp. nov. Type. 3 adult. Humani Ranch, Sabi R. valley, southeastern Zimbabwe, at 20°30’S, 32°16’E; 6 July 1973. Collected by Durban Museum person- nel. Inthe collection of the Durban Natural Science Museum, D.M. Reg. No. 29 235. Description. Differs from nominate C. chiniana in freshly assumed non- breeding dress (May—July) in having the crown and hind-neck less heavily streaked with Sepia, the ground redder (Sudan Brown or more ochreous, versus vinaceous Cinnamon-Brown); mantle and scapulars with shaft-streaking finer, the feather-fringes bufher or greyer, less vinaceous. On the underside, starkly whiter over the fore-throat and mid- ventral plane, with reduced buff suffusion over the breast and lateral parts, this latter tending to be greyer or slightly olivaceous. In tail, rectrices more ochraceous, but light terminal spots less rusty tinged. Size ranging smaller (see Table 1). Material examined. 70—Botswana: Molepolole—Letlhakeng road (at Dithejwane Hills, Magagarape Hill and Morobane); Zimbabwe: near Bulawayo, Humani Ranch (Sabi R. valley); southern Mozambique: Vilanculos, Mapinhane, Panda, Rumbagaga at 21°47’S, 35°07'E; eastern Transvaal lowveld: Malamala Game Ranch, near Newington; eastern Swaziland: Big Bend, Lubuli (near Nsoko). Range. Eastern Botswana south of C. c. smithersi; southern, central and eastern Zimbabwe to about 20°30'S in east; southern Mozambique from about the same latitude north of the Save R., south to the Limpopo basin back from the littoral; the eastern bushveld regions of the Transvaal, and the contiguous eastern lowlands of Swaziland to the west of the Lebombo Mtns, south to about the Pongola R. Intergrades with the C. c. chiniana from Gaborone south, in southeastern Botswana. Measurements of the type. Wing (flattened) 62.5, culmen from base 16, tarsus 20, tail 53 mm. Etymology. Vulpiniceps—from Latin vulpinus, foxlike, and caput, head; that is, having the head-top and hind-neck fox-red in colour: Remarks. In relatively unworn breeding dress, C. c. vulpiniceps has the pileum and hind-neck well-differentiated from the mantle and scapulars, which average lighter and greyer than nominate chiniana, the dark shaft-streaking finer. The head and neck retain a reddish nuance. P. A. Clancey 223 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Irwin (1981) found “birds from most of the central plateau [of Zimbabwe] difficult to place subspecifically as they occupy a position along a multiple cline.”’ In non-breeding dress this population is seem- ingly less reddish than in procerus, but in nuptial plumage dark brown above and indistinctly streaked, in this clearly inclining towards the latter race, which penetrates into northern Zimbabwe as far west as the Kariba basin. Irwin felt that it inclined to the hygric Angolan race C. c. fortis Lynes, 1930, but it is here seen as comprising in the main C. c. vulpiniceps < procerus intergrades. The populations of the Rattling Cisticola present in the Southern African Subregion are viewed as entirely sedentary, but the taking of specimens of as many as three subspecies (C. c. chiniana, C. c. vulpiniceps and C.c. smithersi) at a single locality during the course of dry season collecting trips, as at Mkien, near Bulawayo, southwestern Zimbabwe, suggests that this may not be so, especially in the case of birds breeding in the desertic parts of the plateau. Samples studied from eastern Zimbabwe and the lowveld of the eastern Transvaal also support the conclusion that elements of some populations are prone to seasonal shifts in the face of the onset of deleterious environmental factors, such as drought and intense southern winter cold. In the south of its range at least, C. chiniana is not entirely sedentary. This is, of course, also true of a range of small insectivorous passerines, including other cisticolas, which breed well into the interior of the South West Arid Zone. With the proposal of the new subspecies C. c. vulpiniceps the characters and ranges (Fig. 1) of the contiguous forms may be summarized as follows: C. c. campestris Much as in C. ¢. chiniana, but a trifle more olivaceous and less heavily streaked over the upper-parts. Distinguishable in having the underside whiter, the breast, sides and flanks inclining to greyish or dull olivaceous- buff. Similar in size. Range: the midlands and coastal regions of Natal, Zululand, and the littoral of Mozambique as far north as 22°S. C.c. chiniana Crown to lower back heavily streaked with Sepia, the feathers edged vinaceous Cinnamon-Brown. Underside white, strongly washed with Warm Buff over breast, sides and flanks. Size large (see Table 1). Range: the plateau of the Transvaal, generally north of the high-veld, and southeastern Botswana (mainly intergrades towards vulpiniceps). C. c. vulpiniceps Dorsal streaking as in campestris, but ground-colour of vertex and hind-neck rufous or ochraceous-rufous and edging of back feathers buffer (wearing to greyer). Ventral surfaces as in campestris. Ranging rather smaller in size (see Table 1). Range: as given above. C. c. procerus More uniform and redder Cinnamon-Brown dorsally than the previous three, and dark shaft-streaking suppressed. Wings and tail redder and shorter in male (see Table 1); rectrices also broader. In breeding dress wholly darker brown and virtually unstreaked over the upper-parts. P. A. Clancey 224 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) TABLE 1 Wing- and tail-lengths of the four subspecies of Cisticola chiniana in the eastern half of southern Africa Subspecies Wing Tail (non-breeding) (south to north) n range mean, s.d. n range mean, s.d. campestris 33 12 63.5-70 65.532.5 6 58-68 61.3, 3.6 ole) 13. 50.5-56.5 S297 1e8 11 4453.5 48.0, 3.2 chiniana 33 21 63-70 66.0, 2.3 14 57.5-66 62.0, 2.6 ole) 10 52.5-56.5 54.5, 1.2 7 50.5-54 53.0, 1.4 vulpiniceps 33 12 61-67.5 64.1, 2.4 12 53-62 57.8, 2.9 ole) 10 51-55 53.4, 1.3 10 4753.5 49.5,2.2 procerus 33 12. 60.5-67 64.5, 2.0 8 50-57 53.5, 2.3 ole) 4 54-57 55.7, 1.3 4 45-51 49.0, 2.7 Notes. The sexual size-differential declines from south to north, and in the case of C.c. procerus the tail-length in males drops appreciably compared with the other races, whereas females are scarcely affected. The large standard deviations present in the C. c. campestris (a littoral race) tail-length samples are also relevant. Females of nominate chiniana average longest tails. Comparable data for the western races C.c. frater and C. c. smithersi are given in Clancey (1990). Figure 1. Sketch-map of southern Africa showing the disposition of the subspecies of the Rattling Cisticola: 1, Cisticola chiniana campestris (Gould); 2, Cisticola chiniana chiniana (Smith); 3, Cisticola chiniana vulpiniceps Clancey; 4, Cisticola chiniana procerus Peters; 5, Cisticola chiniana smithersi Hall; 6, Cisticola chiniana frater Reichenow; 7, Cisticola chiniana bensont Traylor and unallocated populations. C..S. Roselaar 225 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Range: Mozambique north from about the Buzi R. (at 20°17’S), northeastern Zimbabwe, west to the Kariba basin, eastern and north- eastern Zambia, Malawi, and southeastern Tanzania, south from about Morogoro. Note. The names C.c. mocuba 1933 and C.c. emendata 1944, both of Vincent, are synonyms of C. c. procerus Peters, 1868: Tete, Mozambique (see White 1960). Acknowledgements For the loan of additional material I am indebted to the authorities of the Transvaal Museum, Pretoria (Dr A. C. Kemp). Dr Aldo Berruti, Ornithologist of the Durban Natural Science Museum, also kindly assisted by collecting additional breeding examples of C. b. taciturnus in Zululand in January and March 1992. References: Clancey, P. A. 1990. The Namibian subspecies of Cisticola chiniana (Smith), 1843. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 10: 83-86. Cole, D. T. 1990. Old Tswana and new Latin. S. Afr. Journ. Afr. Lang. 10: 345-353. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. British Museum (Nat. Hist.), London. Irwin, M. P. S. 1981. The Birds of Zimbabwe. Quest Publishing , Salisbury (Harare). McLachlan, G. R. & Liversidge, R. 1970. Roberts Birds of South Africa. Trustees John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town. Maclean, G.L. 1985. Roberts’ Birds of Southern Africa. Trustees John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town. Ridgway, R. 1912. Color Standards and Color Nomenclature. The Author, Washington, D.C Sibley, C, G. & Monroe Jr., B. L. 1990. Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World. Yale Univ. Press. White, C. M. N. 1960. On Cisticola chiniana procera Peters. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 80: 88-89. Address: Dr P. A. Clancey, Research Associate, Durban Natural Science Museum, P.O. Box 4085, Durban 4000, South Africa. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 A new species of mountain finch Leucosticte from western Tibet by C..S. Roselaar Received 23 December 1991 When searching for Snow Finches Montifringilla nivalis, to be used for the Handbook of the Birds of Europe, the Middle East and North Africa (BWP), ina mixed drawer of Montifringilla and Leucosticte in the collec- tion of the Zoological Museum of Amsterdam (ZMA), I came across two specimens of mountain finch labelled L. brandti which did not fully con- form to the characters of the other L. brandti present. The birds were collected by J. A. Sillem during the Netherlands Karakorum Expedition 1929-1930 on 7 and 8 September 1929 on the plateau between the upper C. S. Roselaar 226 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Kara Kash and the upper Yarkand River, c. 40 km ESE of the Karakoram Pass (expedition’s camp 58) in the disputed area of western Tibet, at an altitude of 5125 m. One bird, collected 7 September, is a heavily worn adult which had just started moult; the other one, collected 8 September, is a young bird with body in juvenile plumage but wing and tail still growing. Both differ from adult and juvenile L. brandti pallidior collected on the same dates in the same locality in showing drab-grey flight- feathers with hardly contrasting paler grey outer fringes (instead of black- ish feathers with a distinct white fringe) and whitish rather than greyish bellies; the adult has top and side of head and neck tawny-cinnamon, without the black shown by L. brandti, and cinnamon-buff instead of smoke-grey chest, side of breast, and flank; the juvenile bird has upper- parts buff with obvious dusky brown shaft-streaks, the latter extending to side of head, breast, and upper flank, and thus is far more heavily streaked than juvenile L. brandti. 'Though one may hesitate to describe a new species from a single worn adult and a not full-grown juvenile, compari- son of both birds with c. 400 specimens of L. brandti as well as a great number of specimens of other related and unrelated mountain birds of Leucosticte, Kozlowia, Carpodacus and Montifringilla in the collections of the museums of Amsterdam, Berlin, Bonn, Dresden, Leiden and Tring shows that the characters of the new species are valid. Leucosticte sillemi sp. nov. Type. ZMA 43449, adult male, collected 7 September 1929 by J. A. Sillem at Kushku Maidan, Netherlands Karakorum Expedition Camp 58, 35°26'N, 78°13’E, in western Tibet at an altitude of 5125 m. Plumage heavily worn, but inner primaries, most upper wing-coverts, and central pairs of tail-feathers new. Para-type. ZMA 43450, juvenile male, collected 8 September 1929, plumage fully juvenile, wing and tail still growing, further data as in type specimen. Description (colour names based on Smithe 1975, 1981) Adult male. Top and side of head and neck bright tawny-cinnamon, slightly paler towards lower neck, and with some pale buff showing at base of bill. Mantle, scapulars and back drab-grey, extreme tips of feathers washed buff (probably due to abrasion); unstreaked. Rump and upper tail-coverts isabelline-white with slight grey wash on feather-centres. Chin, throat, breast, and side of breast pale cinnamon-buff; remainder of underparts white with slight isabelline or pale yellow-buff wash, latter most pronounced on flank. Due to abrasion of feathers, dark neutral grey feather-bases are partly exposed on body, especially on upperparts. Tail dark drab-grey, outer webs and tips bordered by white fringes c. 1 mm wide; fringes faintly tinged pale pink-buff in fresh plumage, partly or fully worn off in abraded plumage. Flight-feathers dark drab-grey, outer webs narrowly and indistinctly fringed paler drab-grey; fringes of outer 3 primaries whitish, but narrow and ill-defined; tips of secondaries and of inner primaries with ill-defined off-white margin. Upper wing-coverts and tertials medium drab-grey, basal and middle portions of inner webs C..S. Roselaar 227 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) of greater coverts and tertials more sooty grey or blackish, outer webs of greater coverts slightly washed pale pink-cinnamon. Greater upper primary coverts and bastard wing dark drab-grey, gradually darker towards sooty grey or blackish tips, outer webs narrowly fringed medium drab-grey. Under wing-coverts and axillaries white. Colours of bare parts not recorded. Differs from L. brandti of local race pallidior in same stage of wear in tawny-cinnamon head and neck, without black on forehead and without sooty grey on side of head or neck; unstreaked lower mantle and scapulars; off-white instead of drab-grey rump and upper tail-coverts, without traces of pink fringes; buff instead of drab-grey chin to breast; off-white instead of light drab-grey belly; drab-grey instead of blackish tail (but colour and extent of white fringes similar); drab-grey instead of blackish flight-feathers and greater upper primary coverts, with scarcely contrasting paler grey fringes, instead of strongly contrasting white fringes; different wing/tail ratio (see below). Juvenile male. Upperparts almost entirely marked with close pink-buft and dark grey-brown streaks; rump less conspicuously streaked pale buff and pale grey-brown; upper tail-coverts almost uniform drab-grey, streaks faint. Side of head and neck closely mottled off-white or pale buff and grey-brown. Chin white; throat to breast and upper flank white with broad but ill-defined grey-brown shaft-streaks; remainder of underparts white with isabelline or pale yellow-buff wash, most pronounced on flank. Lesser and median upper wing-coverts drab-grey with ill-defined pale cinnamon-grey tips; remainder of wing and all tail as adult male. “‘Bill orange” (from label). Differs from juvenile L. brandti pallidior in heavily streaked upperparts (in L. brandti, narrow but distinct streaks restricted to lower mantle and scapulars); pale rather than medium drab-grey upper tail-coverts; uniform white chin but streaked throat to breast (in L. brandti, chin faintly streaked dusky but throat to breast uniform pale drab-grey with isabelline wash), almost pure white instead of dirty light grey belly; dark drab-grey instead of blackish tail- and flight- feathers; medium drab-grey instead of white fringes along outer webs of flight-feathers. Measurements and structure For measurements of L. sillemi and males of some other species see Table 1; for wing/tail ratio of L. sillemi and some other mountain finches of about similar size see Figure 1. Outer wing- and tail-feathers of the type specimen are somewhat abraded, but no more than c. 1 mm of the tips seems to be missing and this does not influence wing/tail ratio to a great extent. Primaries 7 and 8 (counted descendently) of the adult are about equal in length and form the tip of the wing, p 9 is 1 mm shorter, p 10 42mm; this wing formula is similar to those of L. brandti and Roborowski’s Rosefinch Kozlowia roborowski. Tail is slightly forked, as in L. brandti. Bill is similar in shape to L. brandti, thus distinctly more slender than any Carpodacus (except the much smaller Dark Rosefinch C. nipalensis); bill of Kozlowia is equally slender, but the tip is somewhat more pointed. Leg and foot are as in L. brandti, but the tarsus is shorter; tarsus of Kozlowza is about equally short, that of all Carpodacus with a wing-length comparable to L. sillemz is distinctly longer. C. S. Roselaar 228 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) TABLE 1 Measurements of males of Leucosticte and Kozlowia in sequence: mean (standard deviation; sample size) range Leucosticte nemoricola Leucosticte arctoa Leucosticte brandti wing 99.9 (2.06; 29) 97-104 109.6 (2.80; 20) 104-117 120.8 (2.46; 72) 116-125 tail 65.0 (1.85; 28) 62-68 70.6 (2.19; 20) 67-75 75.8 (2.18; 71) 72-80 wing/tail ratio 1.54 (0.03; 32) 1.47-1.59 1.55 (0.04; 20) 1.47-1.62 1.59 (0.04; 71) 1.51-1.68 tarsus 19.4 (0.70; 8) 18.5—20.3 21.3 (0.62; 17) 20.4-22.5 22.7 (0.71; 46) 21.3-23.8 bill to skull 14.0 (0.58; 8) 13.3-14.6 14.6 (0.51; 18) 13.9-15.5 15.5 (0.63; 47) 14.2-16.8 bill to nostril 8.2 (0.34; 8) 7.7-8.7 8.3 (0.42; 20) 7.7-9.2 9.0 (0.41; 67) 8.3-10.0 TABLE 1 (continued ) Leucosticte sillemi Kozlowia roborowskit Type Paratype wing 128 108+ + 123.5 (1.32; 3) 122.5-125 tail 67.5 53++ 72.8 (1.53; 3) 71.5-74.5 wing/tail ratio 1.90 (2.04)+/—? 1.69 (0.05; 3) 1.64-1.72 tarsus 19.7 20.1+? 20.6 (0.62; 3) 20.0—21.2 bill to skull 14.3 12.54++4 16.4 (1.32; 3) 15.5-17.6 bill to nostril 9.3 8.14++ 11.6 (0.49; 3) 11.0-11.9 Notes. Data for L. nemoricola include those of both races; for L.arctoa those of nominate arctoa, giglioli and brunneonucha; for L. brandti those of 17 pallidior, 19 haematopygia, 30 nominate brandti, and a few each of walteri, intermedia, audreyana and margaritacea. One exceedingly long wing of 127 mm in nominate brandti excluded from range. Etymology Named in honour of Mr J. A. Sillem (1902-1986), the ornithologist accompanying Dr and Mrs P. C. Visser on the Netherlands Karakorum Expedition 1929-1930. The expedition left Srinagar on 2 May 1929 and wintered in Yarkand, studying ornithology, botany and geology there and throughout the journey along the trade route across the Karakoram Range, and visiting many previously unexplored side-valleys. On their return to Srinagar on 12 August 1930 Sillem had collected almost 500 birds. ‘Together with his nephew J. G. van Marle and some of their brothers, Sillem founded the Sillem-Van Marle partnership, a private company for the advancement of ornithological science in the Palearctic. This company brought almost 10,000 bird skins together, partly through expeditions by its members (Ireland, Portugal, Corsica, Rumania, Karakoram, Sinkiang), by financing other people’s expeditions (Turkey, Algeria), or by buying parts of collections of others (e.g. of Messrs Snouckaert, Clancey, Harrison, Von Thanner, Dombrowski, Loudon, Tancre, Bamberg and many others). After the death of Mr J. G. van Marle in 1979, the Sillem-Van Marle collection came to the Zoological Museum of the University of Amsterdam through Prof. Dr K. H. Voous, now forming a solid base for the descriptions and the assessment of geographical variation of the BWP handbook. C. S. Roselaar 229 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) TAIL 8 70 | | WING 100 110 120 130 Figure 1. Wing to tail for Leucosticte and various other large mountain finches; both sexes included. (A) Outline of individual plots of 57 Leucosticte nemoricola. (B) Outline of plots of 30 L. arctoa from mainland Asia. (C) Outline of plots of 14 Carpodacus puniceus. (D) Outline of plots of 12 C. rubicilloides. (E) Individual plots of 124 L. brandti, including specimens of all subspecies. (F) Individual plots of Kozlowia roborowskit. (G) Type (adult male) of L. sillemt. (H) Paratype (juvenile male, not full grown) of L. sillemt. Ornithological notes from the type locality (based on Sillem 1934) When the Netherlands Karakorum Expedition went eastward along the upper Chip-chap valley and then northward along one of the side-valleys, they entered a part of the eastern Karakoram range hitherto unexplored by earlier ornithologists. During the ascent to the Kara Tagh Pass (c. 35°35'N, 78°24'E) very few birds were seen, one day not even a single one, but after crossing the pass and arriving at the Kushku Maidan plateau between the Kara Tagh and Kawak passes, birdlife was more plentiful, especially near some lakes, such as the Kara Tagh lake, Chumiktsaka T'so, and the Tso-Rul Tso. Unfortunately, observations and collecting were severely hampered by bad weather, including snow-storms in the even- ings of 6 and 8 September, with temperatures down to —7°C. Even so, Sillem managed to collect 15 birds between 31 August and 14 September C..S. Roselaar 230 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) while on the Kushku Maidan plateau: Anas acuta, Calidris temminckii (2), Tringa glareola, Actitis hypoleucos, Motacilla alba (2), Anthus trivialis, Monticola saxatilis, Carpodacus erythrinus, Leucosticte brandti (2), L. sillemi (2) and Montifringilla blanfordi; he observed Ardea cinerea, Casarca ferruginea, Anas querquedula, Accipiter nisus, Tringa nebularia, T. ochropus, Sterna hirundo and Eremophila alpestris, all at altitudes of over 5000 m. Most birds seen and collected on the plateau were undoubtedly migrants, but both species of Leucosticte were not, as a single adult in each was in full moult, each accompanied by a not yet full-grown juvenile. For Leucosticte, this moult is not exceptionally late, as adult L. brandti examined from elsewhere (e.g. from Nepal, and from Schafer’s collection from east Tibet) also started primary moult about mid-August and com- pleted it in late September, while young birds were in fully juvenile plumage throughout September, not showing body moult to Ist adult plumage until early October. Discussion When the two aberrant skins were first noticed among L. brandti, some doubts arose as to whether their distinctive characters were really those of a new species or whether they were due to extreme abrasion of adult L. brandti or to immaturity. However, examination of c. 400 specimens of L. brandti, including c. 20 fresh juveniles and over 50 adults from August and early September in worn plumage, shows that none ever has drab- grey fringes to the flight-feathers, none of the immatures shows pro- nounced streaking, and no adult ever has a tawny-cinnamon head and neck without black on at least lore and forehead (except L. brandti margaritacea from the Altai, which shows no black, but differs in many other ways from L. sillemi). Some freshly-moulted L. brandti show exten- sive tawny on the upperparts and some buff tinge on the white fringes of the wing-feathers (especially in nominate brandtz) but, unlike L. sillemz, much black is hidden beneath the tawny fringes on the forehead and lores, rump and belly are greyer, tail- and flight-feathers are blacker, and the outer fringes of flight-feathers and greater upper primary coverts are white; also, no L. brandti shows a wing/tail ratio as high as in L. sallemz. It should be stressed that the tawny-yellow of the worn head and neck of L. sillemi may not be similar in colour to the fresh plumage of the species: L. brandti sometimes shows a similar tawny-cinnamon on the rump, instead of the more usual pink, either due to abrasion or to an individual aberration. L. sillemi may have a rosy head and neck in fresh plumage, extending to the upper mantle and breast; however, one would expect that at least some rosy would remain even in heavily worn plumage, and the colour of the crown and side of head of L. sillemi is very similar to the tawny-cinnamon on the head of L. nemoricola, which, like L. sillemi, also shows a reduction of white fringes in the wing but is otherwise very different. A further point may be of interest. The genus Leucosticte consists of a rather heterogeneous assemblage of species which are perhaps not at all closely related; however, they all agree in lacking pronounced sexual dimorphism in colour, while dimorphism is more marked in size of wing D. F. Stotz 231 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) and tail (in large samples of each species, wing and tail of the female are 95°, of those of the male); juveniles are similar to adults, but are more diluted in colour and the streaking (if any) is more restricted and less distinctly defined. In Kozlowia and Carpodacus, sexual dimorphism is marked in colour, less so in size (though variable, wing and tail of the female are 94-98%, of those of male in the larger species examined), and the juvenile of Carpodacus is closely similar to the adult female and thus distinctly streaked (the juvenile of Kozlowza 1s apparently not known). The adult female of L. szllemi is as yet unknown, but the fact that the juvenile of this species is far more heavily streaked than the adult male, unlike other Leucosticte, may indicate that the female is streaked too, and thus not similar to the adult male. If this assumption is valid, then L. sillemi perhaps is better included in Kozlowia, showing the same adap- tations to high-mountain life, with very long wing and short tail and leg. The plumage of juvenile L. szllemi is closely similar to female Kozlowia and some of the larger Carpodacus such as C. rubicilloides, but differs in extensive white fringes to the tail-feathers, and the juvenile may also differ in measurements when full-grown. As the position of Kozlowza is not definitely established and the female of L. szllemi is not known, sillemi is here kept in Leucosticte. Acknowledgements I extend my sincere thanks to the curators of the ornithological departments of the natural history museums of Berlin, Bonn, Dresden, Leiden and Tring for permitting me to examine specimens in the collections, and to the curators of the collections of Leiden and Philadelphia for sending specimens on loan. Mrs Caroline Sillem provided pages of her father’s diary, and Prof. Dr K. H. Voous and Dr J. Wattel made useful comments on earlier versions of the manuscript. References: Sillem, J. A. 1934. Ornithological results of the Netherland Karakorum Expedition 1929/ 1930. Org. Club Nederl. Vogelk. 7: 1-48. Smithe, F. B. 1975, 1981. Naturalist’s Color Guide. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., New York. Address: C. S. Roselaar, Instituut voor Taxonomische Zoodlogie (Zodlogisch Museum), Universiteit van Amsterdam, Postbus 4766, 1009 AT Amsterdam, Netherlands. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 A new subspecies of Aramides cajanea from Brazil by Douglas F.. Stotz Received 16 December 1991 The nominate subspecies of the Grey-necked Wood-Rail Aramides cajanea is found from southern Costa Rica to northern Argentina. Among specimens from within this vast area, there is variation in such features as tone and extent of brown on nape, intensity of rufous underparts, and D. F. Stotz 232 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) tone of the olive back. Based on these characters, several taxa have been named. This variation, however, appears to be poorly correlated with geography, and the various named taxa do not appear to be valid (Hellmayr 1929, Hellmayr & Conover 1942, Ripley 1977). I have recently completed an analysis of a series of 124 specimens in the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de Sao Paulo (MZUSP) from throughout Brazil. This series shows considerable variation in the intensity of the rufous underparts and in the tone of the olive back, which do not have a reliable geographic component. A series from the mangroves of the southern Sao Paulo coast, however, are consistently distinct from other specimens of Aramides cajanea. | propose to call this population: Aramides cajanea avicenniae subsp. nov. Holotype. 3, MZUSP 67212, Iguape, Sao Paulo, Brazil; collected 13 July 1969 by A. M. Olalla. Diagnosis. Resembles A. c. cajanea, but the back Plumbeous (colour 78 [capitalized colour names and numbers from Smithe 1975]), and occiput with brown wash much reduced and greyer or absent. These characters are unique among the populations of Aramides cajanea. Description of type. Crown grey, near Glaucous (colour 79). Nape and back Plumbeous, lower back with slight olive tone. Rump, upper tail coverts and tail black. Scapulars and innermost secondaries Olive-Green (colour 47) with a slight bluish tone, becoming Citrine (colour 51) on inner scapulars and on broad edges to wing coverts and secondaries; these otherwise, along with the primaries, dark ‘Tawny (colour 38), tipped with Vandyke Beowan (colour 221). Lores, auriculars, sides of face and throat Light Neutral Gray (colour 85) becoming Medium Neutral Gray (colour 84) on lower throat and uppermost breast. Chin white. Breast, upper abdomen, and upper flanks Cinnamon (colour 39), a little darker on upper breast just below grey. Remainder of underparts black. ‘Tibial feathering Glaucous. Flattened wing 186 mm, tail 69.8 mm, culmen (from anterior edge of nostril) 28.5 mm, tarsus 68.7 mm. Distribution. Known from mangroves of the Sao Paulo coast from Icapara south to Ilha do Cardoso. Probably extends south in mangroves to central Santa Catarina (see Discussion). Etymology. For Avicennia, one of the two dominant genera (along with Rhizophora) in the mangrove forests of the southern Brazilian coast, which this bird inhabits. Specimens examined (spelling and names of Brazilian localities follow Paynter & Traylor 1991; coordinates given for localities not included in that work): Aramides c. cajanea. PANAMA.: Veragua 13. BRAZIL. Alagoas: Mangabeiras 24, 12; Amazonas: Eirunepe 1d, 29, Ilha Barurua, boca do Ati-Parana (2°30'S, 67°23’ W) 14; Igarapé Aniba 19; Itacoatiara 19; Lago Baptista 49, 59; Lago de Canagari 53; Lago Tapaiuna 1; Parintins 24; Rio Eiru, Santa Cruz 14; Silves 52; Bahia: Curupeba 1; Ilheus 44; Rio Gongogi 192; Ceara: Itapipoca 19; Espirito Santo: Ibiragu 23; Rio Doce 19; Rio Sao José 19; Vila Velha 19; Goias: no locality 14; D. F. Stotz 233 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Maranhao: Boa Vista 1g; Mato Grosso: Cuiaba 13; Fazenda Arica- Mirim 12; Mato Grosso do Sul: Corumba 14, 12; Coxim 14; Miranda 13; Salobra 23, 32; Minas Gerais: Marinqui 13, 19; Pirapora 23 1?; Para: Belem 1, 192; Caxiricatuba 54, 49, 1?; Fordlandia 33, 1?; Igarape Buiucu 13; Jaquara (2°12’ S, 54°24’ W) 13; Piquiatuba 34, 19; Pataua 1d, 12; Rio Xingu, above Altamira 13; Taperinha 13; Paraiba: Coremas 2; Parana: Rio Paracal 13; Roraima: Baixo Rio Mucajai 14; Sao Paulo: Barra do Rio Dourado 14, 19; Barretos 13; Itapura 14, 29; Itaverava 19; Porto Marcondes 14, 29°. Aramides c. cajanea x avicenniae. BRAZIL. Sao Paulo: Ilha dos Alcatrazes 13, 19; Ilha dos Buzios 34, 39; Ilha Vitoria 12; Ubatuba 19. Aramides c. avicenniae. BRAZIL. Sao Paulo: Barra de Icapara 14, Cananeéia 44, 19; Icapara 14, 1?; Iguape 14, 19; Ilha do Cardoso 19. Discussion A.c. avicenniae seems to be almost completely restricted to mangroves, where it is found alongside the smaller Aramides mangle. It occasionally occurs along streams through restinga (forest of low stature on white sands) on Ilha do Cardoso, Sao Paulo (pers. obs., P. Martuscelli pers. comm.), but seems absent from humid forest along the base of the Serra do Mar. Elsewhere in its range, Aramides cajanea regularly occurs in the undergrowth of humid forest well away from water, as well as along watercourses and in mangroves. Specimens of Aramides cajanea from the northern Sao Paulo coast, and its offshore islands, are intermediate between avicenniae and nominate cajanea in the colour of the mantle and occiput. They are darker rufous below than avicenniae, resembling typical cajanea (see below). They presumably represent intergrades between avicenniae and cajanea. ‘The species occurs in mangroves in this region (pers. obs.), but is not restricted to them. Specimens collected on Ilha dos Buzios, which lacks mangroves, were obtained in humid forest (H. Camargo pers. comm.). The intermediate specimens resemble in back colour many of the specimens from the interior of southern Brazil, which have been placed in a separate subspecies, chiricote, by some authorities. Hellmayr (1929) dismissed chiricote as too variable for recognition. Examination of specimens from Mato Grosso do Sul and the interiors of Sao Paulo and Parana leaves me in agreement with Hellmayr, although about half of the specimens are greyer than typical cajanea. In addition to the differences mentioned in the diagnosis, avicenniae is consistently paler rufous on the underparts than is typical of nominate cajanea. However, of the 102 specimens of cajanea in MZUSP, thirteen, from eleven different localities throughout its Brazilian range, are as pale below as avicenniae. The palest of these, from Coremas, Paraiba, is paler than any avicenniae. These pale variants lead me not to use this character in the diagnosis of avicenniae. Both Hellmayr (1929) and Bangs (1907) discount the value of occiput colour in South American birds in distinguishing subspecies. All specimens of avicenniae, however, show at most a slight brown tone to an essentially grey occiput, whereas all the cajanea that I have examined show a clear brown occiput that contrasts obviously with the grey of the D. F. Stotz 234 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) neck. Ripley (1977) describes the occiput of A.c. cajanea as blackish or brownish, so occasional variants that are not brown may exist, but I have not seen any. Bangs (1907) discussed the features of two specimens, one from “‘St. Catharine’s”’ (probably Santa Catarina), Brazil, in the U.S. National Museum and one from Rio de Boraxudo (now Rio de Borrachudo, Parana) in the British Museum. A grey back and pale rufous underparts are mentioned for both specimens (Sharpe 1894, Bangs 1907), agreeing with avicenniae, but the colour of the occiput is not mentioned. Rio de Borrachudo is in the extensive mangrove forests of the northern Parana coast that are contiguous with the mangrove regions of southern Sao Paulo. Mangroves occur south along the Santa Catarina coast (Alonso 1977), so it seems reasonable to believe that the St. Catharine’s specimen came from the Santa Catarina coast. Together these specimens suggest that avicenniae extends south to the southern limit of mangroves in Santa Catarina. The northern limit of avicenniae is also uncertain due to the lack of specimens between the mouth of the Rio Ribeira near Iguape and Ubatuba. However, the extensive mangroves that line the inland water- ways, bays and river mouths from the mouth of the Rio Ribeira south unbroken for 150 km to Paranagua, in Parana, disappear north of the Rio Ribeira. As far north as Peruibe, 60 km up the coast from the Rio Ribeira, significant patches of mangroves (with A. cajanea present; pers. obs.) exist where river mouths or sheltered bays provide the necessary con- ditions. North of Peruibe, though, 70 km of unbroken sand beach separ- ate the mangroves of the southern Sao Paulo coast from the extensive mangroves around Santos. This seems likely to have been the barrier that isolated avicenniae, allowing its evolution, and now providing the northern limit to its distribution. Acknowledgements I wish to thank Tom Schulenberg for reviewing the manuscript, and Paulo Martuscelli and Helio Camargo for discussion of Aramides ecology. I received financial support from the Fundagao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo (FAPESP). References: Alonso, M. T. A. 1977. Vegetacgao. Pp. 81-109 im Instituto Brasileiro de~Geografia e Estatistica (IBGE) (ed.), Geografia do Brasil, Grande Regiado Sul. IBGE, Rio de Janeiro. Bangs, O. 1907. On the wood rails, genus Aramides, occurring north of Panama. Am. Nat. 41: 177-187. Hellmayr, C. E. 1929. A contribution to the ornithology of north-eastern Brazil. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 12: 235-501. Hellmayr, C. E. & Conover, B. 1942. Catalogue of the Birds of the Americas. Part I, No. 1. Field Mus. Nat. Hist., Zool. Ser. 13. Paynter, R. A., Jr. & Traylor, M. A., Jr. 1991. Ornithological Gazetteer of Brazil. Harvard Univ. Press. Ripley, S. D. 1977. Rails of the World. M. F. Feheley Publishers, Toronto. Sharpe, R. B. 1894. Catalogue of the Birds of the British Museum. Vol 23. London. Smithe, F. B. 1975. Naturalist’s Color Guide. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist. Address: D. F. Stotz, Museu de Zoologia, Universidade de Sao Paulo, C. P. 7172, Sao Paulo, SP, CEP 01064 Brazil. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 S.N. G. Hovwell et al. 235 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) New and noteworthy bird records from Belize by Steve N. G. Howell, Barbara A. Dowell, Douglas A. Fames, Robert A. Behrstock & Chandler S. Robbins Received 23 December 1991 As with many areas of Central America, much remains to be learned about the birds of the small, newly independent country of Belize (formerly British Honduras). Russell (1964) summarized what was then known and a few authors have since added observations, most recently Wood et al. (1986) and Wood & Leberman (1987). The former work, however, listed, without reference or supportive documentation, at least 33 species previously unreported from Belize. The following obser- vations represent significant new information concerning 48 species and one hybrid, including 11 species previously unreported from the country and 14 others uncritically listed by Wood et al. (1986). That 31 of the species discussed here were not recorded by Russell (1964) indicates the recent increase in observations in much of Belize. This paper is based on a total of ten weeks Howell spent in Belize during June 1988, February 1990, February to April 1991, and January to February 1992, accompanied during some of the last two trips by Berhstock; on banding and censusing work in Belize in 1983 and from 1987 to 1991 by Dowell and Robbins; and on seven 1—2 week field trips between 1985 and 1991, plusa year’s residence in Belize from September 1988 to September 1989, by James. During 24-29 August 1989, James participated in the ‘““Doyle’s Delight” expedition to an unexplored area of the southern Maya Mountains at the border of Cayo and Toledo districts. Camp was made at 1060 m elevation in the Snake Creek headlands, the 1142 m summit of which is at approximately 16°30'N, 89°03’W. This is 22 m higher than Victoria Peak in the Cockscomb Mountains, previously considered the highest point in Belize. Records of particular authors are indicated by their initials, and are supplemented by records kindly contributed by other observers (indi- cated by their initials) listed under Acknowledgements. NB indicates species previously unreported from Belize; NBW indicates species new to Belize for which specific details could not be traced to support their inclusion by Wood et al. (1986); NR indicates additional species not reported by Russell (1964). MANX SHEARWATER Puffinus puffinus A recently washed-up corpse was found along the beach about one half mile north of Dangriga, Stann Creek District, on 9 Feb 1990 (CSR); the remains (head and wing) have been deposited at the U.S. National Museum of Natural History. NB. FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCK Dendrocygna bicolor RGW observed a group of 20 birds in loose association with 500 Black- bellied Whistling-Ducks (D. autumnalis) at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize District, on 23 Apr 1990. This nomadic species is a rare S.N.G. Howell et al. 236 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) visitor to the Yucatan Peninsula (Ornat et al. 1989, SNGH, pers. obs.), and that it should occur in Belize from time to time is not surprising. NB. SNOW GOOSE Chen caerulescens A white morph bird at Tres Leguas, Orange Walk District, 29 Jan to 12 Feb 1991 (CSR) is the second record for Belize. The first, noted without reference by Wood et al. (1986), is a specimen collected in Nov 1975 and deposited at the American Museum of Natural History. NR. MASKED DUCK Oxyura dominicensis MEG and BGP saw an alternate-plumaged male on a small pond between Cristo Rey and San Antonio, Cayo District, on 18 Mar 1990, the first record for the southern half of Belize. Wood et al. (1986) considered this species a rare resident in northern Belize. NR. DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE Harpagus bidentatus On Ambergris Cay, RAB and SNGH saw two separate adult Double- toothed Kites on 12 Feb 1992; the birds were studied and photographed down to ranges of 5 m. This record is remarkable in that Double-toothed Kites typically are residents of humid forest (mostly rain forest), not of scrubby woodland and mangroves. Wood et al. (1986) considered the species a rare resident only of the southern hardwood forests, but it is fairly common in hardwood forests throughout Belize (SNGH). SHARP-SHINNED HAWK Accipiter striatus SNGH saw an immature 5 km south of San Ignacio, Cayo District, on 6 Feb 1990, and another at Guacamallo Bridge, Cayo District, on 6 Feb 1991. Singles were mist-netted at Parrot’s Wood, Belize District, on 11 Feb 1983, near Pomona, Stann Creek District, 25 Jan 1990, and near Gallon Jug, Orange Walk District, 23 Jan 1991 (BAD, CSR). These records indicate that the species is a widespread but uncommon winter visitor in Belize. Wood et al. (1986) indicated “‘five or fewer records’ in the northern hardwood forests and coastal savannas of Belize. NR. COOPER’S HAWK Accipiter cooperi One mist-netted near Pomona on 12 Jan 1990 (BAD, CSR), an immature 6.5 km south of San Ignacio on 7 Feb 1990 (SNGH) and an adult at Maya Center, Stann Creek District, on 4 Feb 1991 (SNGH) represent the first records of this species in the southern half of Belize. Reported by Wood et al. (1986) only from the northern hardwood forests (‘five or fewer records’’). NR. BROAD-WINGED HAWK Buteo platypterus An immature near San Antonio, Cayo District, on 6 Feb 1990 (SNGH), an adult at Hidden Valley Falls, Cayo District, on 20 Mar 1991 (SNGH), and an adult 3km north of Steadfast Village, Stann Creek District, on 4 Feb 1992 (RAB, SNGH) support the status of this species as a winter resident in southern Belize. An immature carefully studied, heard, and photographed at Ambergris Cay, 11-13 Feb 1992 (RAB, SNGH), presumably represents a vagrant. There are two previous Belize records (Russell 1964, Wood & Leberman 1987). SN. G. Howell et al. 237 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) ZONE-TAILED HAWK Buteo albonotatus Single adults were seen along the Hummingbird Highway at the Hershey Cacao plantation, 18 Jan 1988, and one mile south of Belmopan, 8 Mar 1988 (K. S. Anderson, pers. comm.). As in the Yucatan Peninsula (Ornat et al. 1989) this species has likely been overlooked as a winter visitor to Belize. NB. ORANGE-BREASTED FALCON Falco deiroleucus A pair at Hidden Valley Falls on 20 and 27 March 1991 (RAB, SNGH) was seen copulating on the former date, and on both dates the female was observed flying to a presumed nest cavity in spectacular cliffs near the waterfall. The pair was also present in February 1992 (RAB, SNGH). This pair was first noted at Hidden Valley in 1989 (EB) and represents one of the few Belize records of this rare species (Haney 1983, Wood & Leberman 1987). NR. SINGING QUAIL Dactylortyx thoracicus SNGH heard the distinctive, far-carrying “‘song’”’ of this species (at least 34 individuals) along the Macal River, 6.5 km south of San Ignacio on 31 Jan and 5—7 Feb 1990, and 5—7 Feb and 26—28 Mar 1991, representing the first records of Singing Quail for southern Belize. “Five or fewer records”’ noted by Wood et al. (1986) for the northern hardwood forests. NR. GREY-BREASTED CRAKE Laterallus exilis One was mist-netted near Blue Creek Village, Toledo District, on 11 Jan 1989 (BAD). Single Grey-breasted Crakes were hand-caught by JB during the mowing of a damp meadow at Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize District, in Apr 1989 (photographed) and Nov 1990. Also in Nov 1990, several very small crake chicks were observed at Monkey Bay, either of this species or of Ruddy Crake (L. ruber). These represent the second to fourth documented occurrences from Belize, the first being in Mar 1964 (Russell 1966), a record overlooked by Wood et al. (1986). NR. BLACK RAIL Laterallus jamaicensis A Black Rail called its kiz kit durr song persistently between 19.00 and 21.00 hat Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, 27—29 Jan 1992 (SNGH, IK). The bird was tape-recorded at ranges down to 2 m but could not be seen in the dense, dry savanna grass it called from. There are two previous Belize records, most recently in 1963 (Russell 1964, 1966). UNIFORM CRAKE Amaurolimnas concolor On 20 Mar 1991, DAJ and ten other observers watched a Uniform Crake foraging for an hour along the bank of a stream in the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Preserve, Stann Creek District. Russell (1964) listed only two previous Belize records, the most recent in 1935. AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER Haematopus palliatus One at Dangriga on 4-9 Feb 1990 (BAD, SNGH, CSR) is apparently only the second Belize record (Wood et al. 1986). NR. LONG-BILLED CURLEW Numenius americanus RAB and SNGH studied a Long-billed Curlew, at times in direct comparison with 3 Whimbrels (N. phaeopus) at Commerce Bight, 2 km S.N.G. Howell et al. 238 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) south of Dangriga, Stann Creek District, on 4 Feb 1992. There is one previous published Belize record (Wood & Leberman 1987); no data support the species’ status as a rare transient, as indicated by Wood et al. (1986). NR. DUNLIN Calidris alpina MEG and BGP observed three Dunlin at Commerce Bight on 21 Mar 1990. Wood et al. (1986) noted “‘five or fewer’’ records from the northern half of Belize but no data appear to support this statement. NBW. POMARINE JAEGER Stercorarius pomarinus MEG and BGP observed and photographed an adult and immature off the beach at Commerce Bight on 22 Mar 1990. SNGH has found Pomarine to be commoner than Parasitic Jaeger (S. parasiticus) off the Yucatan Peninsula in winter so its occurrence in Belize is not surprising. NB. PARASITIC JAEGER Stercorarius parasiticus One first-winter bird observed for an hour flying around the Belize City waterfront, Belize District, 23 Mar 1991 (RAB, SNGH), apparently represents the second record for Belize (cf. Wood et al. 1986). NR. GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL Larus marinus DAJ and WC observed and photographed a first-winter bird, in the company of Herring Gulls (L. argentatus) and Laughing (L. atricilla) Gulls, at Belize City on 11—12 Jan 1989. The source of the record noted by Wood et al. (1986) cannot be traced (D. S. Wood & D. Weyer, pers. comm.) and this thus represents the first documented occurrence of Great Black-backed Gull in Middle America. This species has been increasing in eastern North America and has occurred regularly along the United States Gulf of Mexico coast dating from the 1970s (Duncan 1981). NBW. WHITE-CROWNED PIGEON Columba leucocephala RAB and SNGH saw one at Commerce Bight, 24 Mar 1991, and RAB saw one there, 4 Feb 1992, the second and third mainland Belize records of this Caribbean species (cf. Russell 1964). In adjacent Quintana Roo, Mexico, White-crowned Pigeons are regular and seasonally common visitors to the mainland from nesting islands offshore, and the same may be true in Belize. PHEASANT CUCKOO Dromococcyx phasianellus Singles heard at Xunantunich, Cayo District, on 31 Jan 1990 (SNGH), and 6.5 km south of San Ignacio, 6 Feb 1992 (RAB, SNGH) appear to represent only the third and fourth Belize records of this secretive species (cf. Wood et al. 1986). NR. SMOOTH-BILLED ANI Crotophaga ani On Ambergris Cay, Corozal District, one on 13 Feb 1990 (SNGH, photographed by D. Hoffman) and at least two on 13 Feb 1991 (SNGH) were all in the company of groups of the noticeably smaller Groove-billed Ani (C. sulcirostris); a lone bird was seen there on 12 Feb 1992 (RAB, SNGH). Russell (1964) listed one specimen, apparently now lost, from Belize, and Pelzl (1969) reported sightings from Northern Cay. S.N. G. Howell et al. 239 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) STYGIAN OWL Aszo stygius One roosted in pine savanna near the Belize Zoo, Belize District, dur- ing Jun 1989 (AB, DAJ, DW). SNGH observed and tape-recorded a courting pair at Hidden Valley Falls the night of 19 Mar 1991. There are few previous Belize records of this little-known species, and only one other for the Mountain Pine Ridge, an area for which Wood et al. (1986) overlooked Russell’s (1964) specimen record. STRIPED OWL Aszio clamator One studied by a tour group at Dangriga, 9 Mar 1988 (K. S. Anderson, pers. comm.), appears to be the first confirmed record for Belize, since the source for this species’ inclusion by Wood et al. (1986) cannot be traced (D.S. Wood, pers. comm.). NBW. YUCATAN POORWILL Nyctiphrynus yucatanicus SNGH heard up to three Yucatan Poorwills, giving their distinctive will call, 6.5 km south of San Ignacio on 5—8 Feb 1990 (also one seen), 6-8 Feb 1991, and 27-29 Mar 1991. These represent the southernmost records of this Yucatan endemic. Russell (1964) reported only one speci- men and a few sightings from northern Belize. The reports of Wood et al. (1986) from the coastal savannas, however, are based on birds misident- ified by voice (D. Weyer, pers. comm.); see Pierson (1986) and Howell (1990) for clarification of the vocalisations attributed to this species and Caprimulgus badius, the Yucatan Nightjar. SWIFT SP. Cypseloides sp. At least 14 swifts seen and heard high overhead at Hidden Valley Falls, 19 Mar 1991 (SNGH), could not be identified to species but were clearly referable to the genus Cypseloides. Overall they resembled the Black Swift C. niger, a species not known from Belize. Their calls, however, did not sound like those of Black Swift nor of the smaller Chestnut- collared Swift C. rutilus. They may have been White-chinned Swifts C. cryptus, a little-known species that has been found once in Belize (Russell 1964). BAND-TAILED BARBTHROAT Threnetes ruckeri One mist-netted at the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Preserve, on 19 Feb 1990 (BAD, CSR), is the northernmost record for this striking hummingbird, being some 75km north of previous records in southernmost Belize (Barlow et al. 1972, Wood & Leberman 1987). NR. STRIPE-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD Eupherusa eximia Stripe-tailed Hummingbirds were fairly common at the Doyle’s Delight expedition camp, 20-24 Aug 1989, including a female being followed by a newly-fledged begging juvenile (WC, DAJ, SM, MM). This species was known in Belize only from the Cockscomb Mountains (Russell 1964). SPECTACLED FOLIAGE-GLEANER Anabacerthia variegaticeps This species appeared to be fairly common at the Doyle’s Delight expedition camp: DAJ and MM saw two on 20 Aug 1989, and several others were seen after that date (SM, MM). NB. S.N.G. Howell et al. 240 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) BARE-CROWNED ANTBIRD Gymnocichla nudiceps A male and female were mist-netted at Blue Creek, Toledo District, on 21 Jan 1989 (BAD, CSR). The only previous records from Belize are those of Wood & Leberman (1987). NR. CARIBBEAN ELAENIA Elaenia martinica One on Ambergris Cay, 13 Feb 1990 (SNGH), at least one there on 6—7 Feb 1991 (MEG, BGP), three on 13-14 Feb 1991 (SNGH), two on 3-4 Apr 1991 (RAB, SNGH), and one on 12 Feb 1992 (RAB, SNGH) suggest the species has been overlooked onsome of the inner Belize cays. Caribbean Elaenias have also been reported recently from mainland Quintana Roo (Ornat et al. 1989) where they may be present only in winter. The Ambergris birds may also be wintering migrants from the Caribbean although Bond (1985) did not indicate that the species shows any migratory tendencies. On Ambergris, FE. martinica is sympatric with the commoner Yellow-bellied Elaenia EF. flavogaster but favours scrubby woodland while flavogaster prefers more open areas. In Belize, Caribbean Elaenias have been reported only from offshore keys, namely Glover’s Reef and Lighthouse Reef (Russell 1964, Pelz] 1969). GREY KINGBIRD T'yrannus dominicensis BW and DS observed and photographed a Grey Kingbird in Belize City, Belize District, on 3 Apr 1989. DAJ and party found and photo- graphed one in Belize City on 17 Mar 1991; the bird was still present on 23 Mar (RAB, SNGH). NB. WHITE-WINGED BECARD Pachyramphus polychopterus An immature male was mist-netted and photographed near Gallon Jug on 24 Jan 1991 (BAD, CSR). The only previous records for Belize, all from the southern half of the country, are those of Wood & Leberman (1987). NR. CAROLINA (WHITE-BROWED) WREN Thryothorus ludovicianus On 28 Mar 1991, RAB and SNGH heard and saw a White-browed Wren singing 6.5 km south of San Ignacio. The bird was in dense decidu- ous woodland at 120 m elevation near the west bank of the Macal River. This species was listed as a permanent resident with “‘five or fewer records’ from both northern and southern hardwood forests by Wood et al. (1986), and reported from Belize by the A.O.U. (1983). Phillips (1986), however, found no Belize records, and the source of the A.O.U. and Belize Checklist citations is unclear (B. L. Monroe, Jr., pers. comm.., and D.S. Wood, pers. comm., respectively). NBW. SLATE-COLOURED SOLITAIRE Myadestes unicolor This species was common at and above the Doyle’s Delight expedition camp, 20—24 Aug 1989 (WC, DAJ, SM, MM). In addition, SNGH tape- recorded a singing individual, presumably an altitudinal migrant (elevation about 150m), at Milepost 39 on the Hummingbird Highway, Cayo District, 2 Feb 1990. Previous records from Belize were all from the Cockscomb Mountains (Russell 1964). S.N. G. Howell et al. 241 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) BREWSTER’S WARBLER V ermivora pinus x V. chrysoptera PR observed an individual of this distinctive hybrid at Windy Hill, between San Ignacio and Benque Viejo, Cayo District, on 19 Mar 1988. The only other record from northern Central America is a recent observation from Guatemala (Howell & Webb 1992). NB. VIRGINIA’S WARBLER V/ermivora virginiae DAJ and three others watched a Virginia’s Warbler foraging for 30 minutes at Baker’s Ranch (about 20 km northwest of Belize City), Belize District, on 18 Dec 1988. On 16 Mar 1989, JGE andatour group carefully studied a Virginia’s Warbler in coastal scrub at Dangriga. These records together with one reported in February 1977 near Lake Peten Itza in northern Guatemala (Beavers et a/. 1991) suggest a pattern of vagrancy for this species which normally winters in southwest Mexico. NB. SHINING HONEYCREEPER Catherpes lucidus DAJ and MM saw a male near the Doyle’s Delight expedition camp on 22 Aug 1989. This is another species previously known in Belize only from the Cockscomb Mountains (Russell 1964). BLUE-HOODED EUPHONIA Euphonia elegantissima DAJ and party saw three Blue-hooded Euphonias near the Doyle’s Delight expedition camp on 21 Aug 1991. There is one previous record for Belize (Russell 1964). COMMON BUSH-TANAGER Chlorospingus ophthalmicus Common Bush-Tanagers were common at and above the Doyle’s Delight expedition camp, 20-23 Aug 1989 (WC, DAJ, SM, MM). The only previous record from Belize is from the Cockscomb Mountains (Russell 1964). SLATE-COLOURED SEEDEATER Sporophila schistacea A male was mist-netted and photographed at Blue Creek, Toledo District, on 28 Jan 1989 (BAD, CSR). In addition, JGE and a tour group observed and photographed a male (and also probably saw two females) in association with bamboo at Chan Chich, Orange Walk District, 12 Mar 1991, and DS observed a male, an immature male, and three females, also at Chan Chich, on 1 May 1991. This nomadic species appears to be expanding its range in Central America; it has invaded the Caribbean Slope of Costa Rica since about 1975 (Stiles & Skutch 1989) and was first recorded in Honduras in 1979 (Marcus 1983). NB. BLUE SEEDEATER Amaurospiza concolor At Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, one male on 1 Feb 1991 (SNGH), at least seven individuals on 3 Feb 1991 (SNGH, singing males tape- recorded), a pair on 21 and 24 Mar 1991 (RAB, SNGH; photographed on the last date) and 3-4 birds, including a pair and another singing male, on 2 Feb 1991 (RAB, SNGH). All birds were associated with seeding bamboo. In addition, a male was mist-netted at Bermuda Landing, Belize District, on 24 Feb 1991 (CSR). These records are remarkable not only in that there appear to be no records from neighbouring Guatemala (A.O.U. 1983), but that elsewhere in its range from Mexico to South America the S.N.G. Howell et al. 242 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) species occurs in highlands and foothills (A.O.U. 1983, Monroe 1968, Ridgely & Gwynne 1989, Ridgely & Tudor 1989, Stiles & Skutch 1989, Thurber et al. 1987). NB. YELLOW-FACED GRASSQUIT Tvaris olivacea In 1990, MEG and BGP noted a male 6.5 km south of San Ignacio, 17 Mar, and at least two pairs between Cristo Rey and San Antonio, 18 Mar. In 1991, RAB and SNGH saw single males at Milepost 39 on the Hummingbird Highway, Cayo District, on 26 Mar, and near San Antonio, 27 Mar. In 1992, RAB and SNGH saw two males 6.5 km south of San Ignacio on 6 Feb. The source of the only previous Belize record (Wood et al. 1986) cannot be traced (D. S. Wood, pers. comm., W. F. Young, pers. comm.). Yellow-faced Grassquits occur locally in Guatemala and in the Yucatan Peninsula; increased deforestation may be helping the species spread into southern Belize or it may simply have been overlooked there in the past. NBW. LINCOLN’S SPARROW Melospiza lincolnii ST observed a Lincoln’s Sparrow at Ambergris Cay on 13 Feb 1990. ‘There are only two other records from Belize, both in March (Russell 1964). WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW Zonotrichia leucophrys On 28 Oct 1988, at Ambergris Cay, DAJ found an immature White- crowned Sparrow foraging with a mixed-species flock that included Grey Catbirds Dumetella carolinensis and Indigo Buntings Passerina cyanea. White-crowned Sparrows occur as rare, overshooting autumn migrants in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, mostly from mid-Oct to Nov (Howell 1989, SNGH, pers. obs.). NB. ORANGE ORIOLE [cterus auratus At Ambergris Cay, SNGH saw an adult male (photographed by D. Hoffman) and female on 12 Feb 1990, an immature male and immature female on 13 Feb 1991, and RAB and SNGH saw an adult male and female on 12 Feb 1992. Previously the species has been considered endemic to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula (A.O.U. 1983) although it has been collected at Chetumal (Paynter 1955), immediately adjacent to Belize. That none was found on Ambergris during 2—4 Apr 1991, despite careful searching, suggests the species may be only a winter visitor there. NB. YELLOW-BACKED ORIOLE I[cterus chrysater This species was fairly common in scrubby woodland and coconut palms (Cocos nucifera) on Ambergris Cay in Jan and Feb 1990, Apr 1991, and Feb 1992 (RAB, SNGH). There are no previous reports from the Belize cays and all other Belize records are from pinelands (Russell 1964). HOUSE SPARROW Passer domesticus DAJ noted a roosting group of 15 at Punta Gorda, Toledo District, on 20 Dec 1988, SNGH saw a male and two females at Dangriga on 1 Feb 1990, and CSR saw at least one at Punta Gorda on 3 Feb 1990. Wood et al. (1986) noted ‘“‘five or fewer records’’ from ‘“‘cities’’ in the coastal areas. S.N. G. Howell et al. 243 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Although House Sparrows have pushed south as far as central Panama (Ridgely & Gwynne 1989), why they have not colonised the Yucatan Peninsula (and Belize) is unknown. NR. Acknowledgements We thank the following persons who contributed their observations and helped clarify existing published information: Kathleen S. Anderson, Amy Bodwell (AB), Ed Boles (EB), Joshua Brown (JB), Walter Craig (WC), Jules G. Evens (JGE), Mary E. Gustafson (MEG), Inga Kellogg (IK), Sharon Matola (SM), Martin Meadows (MM), Burt L. Monroe, Jr., Bruce G. Peterjohn (BGP), Pamela Rasmussen (PR), David Stejskal (DS), Stuart Tingley (ST), Bret Whitney (BW), Richard G. Wilson (RGW), Dora Weyer (DW), D. Scott Wood, and W. Ford Young. Howell and Behrstock benefited from the company in the field of Dick and Jean Hoffman. Howell also thanks Will Russell and WINGS Inc., and Joshua Brown, Inga Kellogg, and Matthew Miller of the Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, for logistical support during his field work in Belize. Dowell and Robbins gratefully acknowledge their many volunteer banding assistants and many hosts in Belize. The Doyle’s Delight expedition was organized by Sharon Matola of the Belize Zoo and by Martin Meadows, and was made possible by support from the Royal Geographical Society and through logistical support from the British Forces in Belize. This is contribution number 532 of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory. References: American Ornithologists’ Union. 1983. Checklist of North American Birds. 6th ed. A.O.U. Washington, D.C. Barlow, J. C., Dick, J. A., Weyer, D. & Young, W. F. 1972. New records of birds from British Honduras (Belize) including a skua. Condor 74: 486-487. Beavers, R. A., Delaney, D. J., Leahy, C. W. & Oatman, G. F. 1991. New and noteworthy bird records from Peten, Guatemala, including Tikal National Park. Bull. Brit. Orn. CI. 111: 77-90. Bond, J. 1985. Birds of the West Indies. 4th ed. Hoghton Mifflin Co., Boston, Massachusetts. Duncan, R. A. 1981. The Great Black-backed Gull: a gulf coast status review. Am. Birds 35: 233-234. Haney, J. C. 1983. First sight record of Orange-breasted Falcon for Belize. Wilson Bull. 95: 314-315. Howell, S. N. G. 1989. Additional information on the birds of the Campeche Bank, Mexico. F. Field Orn. 60: 504-509. Howell, S. N. G. 1990. Songs of Mexican Birds by B. B. and L. C. Coffey. Review. Wilson Bull. 102: 184-185. Howell, S. N. G. & Webb, S. 1992. New and noteworthy bird records from Guatemala and Honduras. Bull. Brit. Orn. Cl. 112: 42-49. Marcus, M. J. 1983. Additions to the avifauna of Honduras. Auk 100: 621-629. Monroe, B. L., Jr. 1968. A distributional survey of the birds of Honduras. Orn. Monogr. no. 7, American Ornithologists’ Union. Ornat, A. L., Lynch, J. F. & de Montes, B. M. 1989. New and noteworthy records of birds from the eastern Yucatan Peninsula. Wilson Bull. 101: 390-409. Paynter, R. A., Jr. 1955. The ornithogeography of the Yucatan Peninsula. Peabody Mus. Nat. Hist. Bull. 9. Pelzl, H. W. 1969. Birds of the British Honduras Keys. Published by author, St. Louis, Missouri. Phillips, A. R. 1986. The Known Birds of North and Middle America. Part I. Denver, Colorado. Published by author. Pierson, J. 1986. Notes on the vocalisations of the Yucatan Poorwill (Nyctiphrynus yucatanicus) and ‘Tawny-collared Nightjar (Caprimulgus salvini). Mexican Birding Association Bulletin Board 1(86-1): 3-4. Ridgely, R.S. & Gwynne, J. 1989. A Guide to the Birds of Panama. 2nd ed. Princeton Univ. Press Ridgely, R.S. & Tudor, G. 1989. The Birds of South America. Vol 1. Univ. Texas Press. Russell, S. M. 1964. A distributional survey of the birds of British Honduras. Orn. Monogr. no. 1, American Ornithologists’ Union. Russell, S. M. 1966. Status of the Black Rail and Grey-breasted Crake in British Honduras. Condor 68: 105-107. F. S. Ash 244 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Stiles, F. G. & Skutch, A. F. 1989. A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica. Cornell Univ. Press. Thurber, W. A., Serrano, J. F., Sermeno, A. & Benitez, M. 1987. Status of uncommon or previously unreported birds of El Salvador. Proc. Western Foundation Vert. Zool. 3: 109-293. Wood, D.S. & Leberman, R. C. 1987. Results of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History expedition to Belize. III. Distributional notes on the birds of Belize. Ann. Carnegie Mus. 56: 137-160. Wood, D.S., Leberman, R. C. & Weyer, D. 1986. Checklist of the birds of Belize. Carnegie Mus. Nat. Hist. Special Publ. 12. Addresses; Steve N. G. Howell, Point Reyes Bird Observatory, 4990 Shoreline Highway, Stinson Beach, California 94970, USA. Barbara A. Dowell and Chandler S. Robbins, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, Maryland 20708, USA. Douglas A. James, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, USA. Robert A. Behrstock, WINGS Inc., P.O. Box 31930, Tucson, Arizona 85751, USA. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Departure behaviour of night migrants in the eastern Sahara by F. S. Ash Received 9 January 1992 During an investigation in 1986 into the migration of Palearctic birds at Wadi Halfa (21°53’N, 31°19’E) in the northern Sudan, undertaken by an ICBP supported expedition in cooperation with the Wildlife Conser- vation Forces of the Sudan, I spent some time observing the departure of migrants on nocturnal flights. The chosen site was on the eastern shore of Lake Nasser on the River Nile’s route through the Sahara, where areas of tamarisk Tamarix sp. scrub 1.5—2.0m high are mostly not dense enough to be inaccessible on foot. As the waters of the lake rose in September this scrub became increasingly flooded. Every day there were large numbers of migrants in the scrub. Most, if not all of them, arrived during the previous night from c. 24.00 h onwards, with a peak fall- out at c. 40 minutes before sunrise. They apparently spent the daylight hours in the scrub, and from the amount of activity seen, most, if not all of them, spent their time feeding or looking for food. A sample of over 6000 of the Palearctic migrants netted were ringed. Of these, 93% comprised three species, Reed Warblers Acrocephalus scirpaceus 59%, Lesser Whitethroats Sylvia curruca 24% and Sedge Warblers A. schoenobaenus 10°. All the migrants caught were in good condition and carried sufficient fat to enable them to complete the desert crossing (Nikolaus in prep.). Around sunset (at 17.56 h on 15 September) there was either marked reduction in activity among the migrants, or else they became less visible, and at first it was thought that this was perhaps due to their departure on migratory flight. Further investigation, however, revealed that the birds were still present but in a relatively inactive or quiescent state. At 34-57 minutes after sunset they departed individually in rapid ascent into the F. S. Ash 245 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) sky. During this one hour period after sunset no birds were caught in nets erected in the scrub, indicating that apparently no birds were moving about in near-horizontal flight. When some of the above migrants were followed in the evenings a type of behaviour more or less common to them all was observed, which I had neither seen previously nor had seen referred to anywhere. As this behaviour is presumably linked with departure on migratory flights the following brief accounts of each incident are related to the time of sunset. Sunset was at c. 18.00h local time, and all incidents detailed below are described as occurring so many minutes after sunset. With sunset at 18.02 h, an incident at 18.12 h is referred to as at +10. At this latitude there were only 30-40 minutes between sunset and darkness, so that birds low down in vegetation soon disappeared from view. By adjusting my position it was sometimes possible to place a bird in silhouette against the paler post-sunset area of the sky, or against this light reflected from water. (1) 15 September. A Reed Warbler watched from about sunset departed at + 39 by flying straight up into the air without any indication of direction. (2) 16 September. After losing sight of several birds, two Reed Warblers and a Lesser Whitethroat were found at +19, still feeding actively in low tamarisks standing in water. They soon settled down and commenced to preen, which they continued to do until +29. They then all moved down to within 30 cm of the water, where the Reed Warbler stretched both wings, but otherwise did not move, while the other two birds were lost in the increasing darkness. At +43 the Reed Warbler suddenly darted off at an angle of 45° and was almost immediately lost in the dusk. While under observation it was noticeable that this bird, like the others, was very much aware of any passing birds, mostly Swallows Hirundo rustica and Egyptian Geese Alopochen aegyptiaca. At the time there was aj moon, light NW breeze and ;} cloud. (3) 17 September. The first bird, a Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata, was still feeding when lost to view in very poor light at +22. At the same time an immobile Sedge Warbler was found which remained in that state until +32, when it flew off to another bush and was lost. While scanning this bush and others nearby five motionless birds, almost cer- tainly Reed Warblers, were found sitting together in a small tamarisk. Three of these flew off at +42, +52 and +57, all towards the north, and one of them, seen well against an area of pale sky in the west, was visible for some distance rising at 30°. At +42 another observer, Thomas Kiel, who was moonwatching several hundred metres away saw a small bird rise rather erratically into the air across the face of the moon. (4) 18 September. After a search in which no suitable birds could be found four motionless Reed Warblers were seen together in the same low tamarisk bush. They left singly at +34, +35, +37 and +39 flying off in an erratic manner to the NW (2), SW and W, at an angle of 45° over the lake. During this observation c. 40 Swallows settled in anearby bush, and at least two of them flew off at +36 and +38. A week later at a desert site at a distance of c. 30 km from the lake and river a further incident occurred which may not be related to those described above, although it did concern a Palearctic migrant. F.S. Ash 246 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) (5) 24 September. At about an hour before sunset a Ruppell’s Warbler Sylvia rueppelli was found feeding actively in a very small group of sparse low bushes in the desert at 30 km WSW of Teita on the Nile at 18°47'N, 30°07'E. No other birds were present. On returning at sunset to search for a migrant preparing to depart I found what was presumably the same Ruppell’s Warbler in a most curious posture. It was perched completely stationary at 30 cm above ground level on an exposed twig with its bill held almost vertically overhead, in which state it remained until +15. Returning at +60 with Gerhard Nikolaus we found the bird in exactly the same site and posture when it was easily hand-caught with the aid of a flashlight. Five minutes later it was placed in a small acacia bush, but 1.2h later there was no sign of it. At dawn we made a thorough search, so detailed that there was no possibility of missing the bird either dead or alive. As it could not be found it had presumably left in the night. Discussion It is not known to what extent the birds watched in the evening had been feeding during the day. Presumably some food was available for them, and water for drinking or bathing was plentiful. At a time shortly after sunset a non-migrating bird would be settling down to rest and adopting its normal sleeping posture. ‘The birds observed here were not doing this: after it was too dark to feed they presumably conserved energy by resting, although they occasionally stretched and preened. In general their behaviour gave the impression that they were preparing for activity rather than rest. It was quite clear from slight head movements that they were aware of passing birds, and any other avian activity 1n their immedi- ate vicinity. Obviously it is important that departing migrants need to be aware of the presence of potential predators, for some species, such as Sooty Falcons Falco concolor, will concentrate on capturing departing migrants as they take off at late dusk (pers. obs. in Egypt). There must be high survival value in delaying departure until the cover of darkness conceals them from predators, and the departure of migrants in rapid darting flight at Wadi Halfa could help in avoiding attacking predators. However, another reason for delaying departure could be the need to await the appearance in darkness of visible navigation aids such as the moon and stars. In general trans-Saharan migrants under good conditions are carrying enough fuel for a desert crossing. If adverse conditions arise at any stage the birds are faced with a situation where they either have to conserve energy for onward flight, or use up some of their reserves ina search for an extra source of energy. At one extreme, migrants in total desert without sustenance will remain almost motionless in the shadow ofa stone or plant all day, whereas at the other extreme, such as at Wadi Halfa, birds may be able to maintain their fuel resources by feeding during the day, may be able to restore any recent losses, and perhaps even boost their arrival weights. It is suggested here that the migrants at Wadi Halfa arrive in good condition in a vegetated area, perhaps detected by scent, where they remain ina stress-free situation to feed during the day, and then depart on F. S. Ash 247 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) a following evening. An analysis of the weights of these birds now being undertaken (Nikolaus, in prep.) could provide clues about their energy requirements and fuel consumption, in relation to the journey already taken and for that which lies ahead. Evening departure times at 34-57 minutes after sunset at Wadi Halfa conform with times found by several other observers in north Africa and the eastern Mediterranean summar- ized in Biebach et al. (1991) as 30—90 minutes after sunset. However, birds departing after + 60 would not be visible at Wadi Halfa. Other aspects of our 1986 observations in relation to those in Biebach et al. (loc. cit.) are being discussed elsewhere. Acknowledgements This study was undertaken incidentally to the main objectives of the ICBP Wadi Halfa Expedition in 1986. I extend thanks to: Gerhard Nikolaus, the International Council for Bird Preservation (ICBP), the Wildlife Conservation Forces of the Sudan and Deutscher Bund fiir Vogelschutz (DBU). References: Biebach, H., Friedrich, W., Heine, G., Jenni, L., Jenni-Eiermann, S. & Schmidl, D. 1991. The daily pattern of bird migration in the northern Sahara. Jbzs 133: 414422. Nikolaus, G. In prep. Autumn migration of Palearctic birds in the eastern Sahara. Address: Dr J. S. Ash, Godshill Wood, Fordingbridge, Hants. SP6 2LR, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 Northern White-tailed Bush Lark Mirafra albicauda, Singing Bush Lark M. cantillans and Friedmann’s Bush Lark M. pulpa in Ethiopia by ¥..S. Ash Received 9 January 1992 There has been some confusion over the occurrence and distribution of certain Mirafra larks in Ethiopia, notably the Northern White-tailed Bush Lark M. albicauda, the Singing Bush Lark M. (javanica) cantillans and Friedmann’s Bush Lark M. pulpa. The following remarks attempt to clarify the situation. Records of Mirafra albicauda Benson (1946) collected four larks in southern Ethiopia which he pre- sented to the British Museum (Natural History) identified as Mirafra albicauda. These birds were apparently never referred to in the literature as M. albicauda, except by Benson himself (loc. cit.); at a later date Benson reidentified these birds as M. cantillans marginata, and the names on their labels were corrected. Prior to Benson’s records above of albicauda the Childs Frick Expedition to Ethiopia collected four specimens (Friedmann 1937) in March 1912 (Appendix) in an area of black cotton soil at the 4. S. Ash 248 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) southeast end of Lake Abaya (see notes below Appendix) and the north- east corner of Lake Chamo in the southern Rift Valley. This area is known as the Nechisar Plain and is now contained within the Nechisar National Park. White (1961) listed the species for Ethiopia on the basis of Friedmann ’s birds from the Nechisar area, but did not refer to Benson’s reidentified ‘“‘albicauda’’. Furthermore he included cantillans with javanicaand presumably included Benson’s birds there when he described the distribution of M/. javanica marginata as being in “‘Eritrea (except west), Ethiopia, south-east Sudan, dry areas of Uganda, Kenya and northern Tanganyika’. He also includes the subspecies chadensis of West Africa, which Urban & Brown (1971) state extends into western Ethiopia. Other than the recent rediscovery at 1100 m of albicauda from Friedmann’s locality (Safford in prep.) there are no other records from Ethiopia, and it is possible that the species is confined to the black cotton soils there—an area very poorly known ornithologically (Duckworth & Telfer 1991). Initially only photographs of the new bird were available, which I identified as albicauda. This identification was confirmed by Dr P. C. Lack and Dr D. J. Pearson, both of whom know pulpa well and were able to eliminate it as a possible alternative; and independently R. G. Safford had also come to the same conclusion. Later the specimen was presented to the British Museum. In order to confirm the identification of the earlier birds Dr Storrs L. Olson checked the two specimens of albicauda identified by Friedmann and still held at the Smithsonian Institution, the other two now being at the American Museum (AMNH) and the Philadelphia Academy. He had only three other specimens of albicauda, also identified by Friedmann, with which to compare them, but was able to say that they were certainly not the same as pulpa, and were likewise different from the Smithsonian’s holding of M. (j.) cantillans marginata. He assumed that because albicauda is regarded as being somewhat like cantillans in overall size and bill shape, Friedmann’s specimens were probably correctly identified. Olson kindly arranged the loan of one of the Friedmann specimens (USNM 246208), and I was able together with Dr D. J. Pearson to check it, along with the recent specimen from Ethiopia (Safford in prep.), at the British Museum (Natural History). Together we, and Safford on another occasion, con- firmed the identification of both specimens as M. albicauda, which thus represent the first and second records from Ethiopia (vide Appendix), and the species can now be added to the Ethiopian check-list on the basis of being ‘“‘twice recorded on black cotton soil at the same site in the southern Rift Valley’. Record of Mirafra pulpa M. pulpais known from Ethiopia from one specimen (the type) collected by Friedmann (see Appendix) at the Sagan River only c. 93 km south of the Nechisar Plain. Following Hall & Moreau (1970) this species is included in the Ethiopian Checklist (Urban & Brown 1970), whereas previously it had been included with M. cantillans marginata by Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1960). Subsequently, Lack (1977) provided a history of its taxonomy and showed clearly that it is distinct from cantillans on account of its characteristic song. ¥. S. Ash 249 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Distribution of Mirafra cantillans The Ethiopian Checklist (Urban & Brown 1970) recognizes two races of Mirafra cantillans, M. c. marginata which they confine to northeastern Ethiopia, including eastern Eritrea, and M. c. chadensis in western Ethiopia. White (1961) gives the distribution of marginata as Eritrea (except west), Ethiopia etc., and chadensis as across Africa eastwards to western Ethiopia. Widespread records from further south (Ash pers. obs., Benson 1946, Berlioz 1922, Friedmann 1937, Hail & Moreau 1970, Mackworth-Praed & Grant 1960, etc.) show that its distribution extends down the Rift Valley into southern Ethiopia and beyond. This distri- bution of marginata in Ethiopia is an extension of the range of this race eastwards from southern Sudan (Nikolaus 1987) and north from Kenya (Lewis & Pomeroy 1989); chadensis extends eastwards in a band across central Sudan almost to Eritrea (Nikolaus 1987), from where there is probably one record only. As apparently the most easterly chadensis very closely approaches in distribution the most northerly marginata, birds in northern Ethiopia should perhaps be examined more closely. Hall & Moreau (1970) provide the most accurate description of the distribution of the species in Ethiopia. Acknowledgements I thank the following for their help: Dr D. J. Pearson for discussion as we examined specimens together at the British Museum, and also him and Dr P. C. Lack for their identification of the photographs of the new Ethiopian M. albicauda; Dr Storrs L. Olson for his comments and for the loan of a specimen from the Smithsonian Institution, and Peter Colston for much help at the British Museum (Natural History); Michael Evans, Roger Safford and Will Duckworth who sent me full details and photographs of the Nechisar bird, and Mrs B. P. Hall who provided helpful suggestions. References: Benson, C. W. 1946. Notes on the birds of southern Ethiopia. [bis 88: 25-49. Berlioz, J. 1922. Etude de la collection d’oiseaux rapportée par la mission de Bourg- de-Bozas de |’ Afrique tropicale (1902-1903). Bull. Mus. d’ Hist. Nat. 1922: 259-266, 342-348, 394-398. Duckworth, J. W. & Telfer, M. G. (eds) 1991. A survey of Nechisar National Park, Ethiopia. International Council for Bird Preservation (Study Report No. 50), Cambridge, U.K. Friedmann, H. 1937. Birds collected by the Childs Frick expedition to Ethiopia and Kenya Colony. Parts 1 & 2. Bull. U.S. Natl Mus. 153. Hall, B. P. & Moreau, R. E. 1970. An Atlas of Speciation in African Passerine Birds. Brit. Mus. (Nat. Hist.), London. Lack, P. C. 1977. The status of Friedmann’s Bush-Lark Mirafra pulpa. Scopus 1: 34-39. Lewis, A. & Pomeroy, D. 1989. A Bird Atlas of Kenya. Balkema, Rotterdam. Mackworth-Praed, C. W. & Grant, C. H. B. 1960. African Handbook of Birds. Birds of Eastern and North Eastern Africa. Vol. 2. Longmans. Nikolaus, G. 1989. Distribution atlas of Sudan’s birds with notes on habitat and status. Bonn. Zool. Monogr. 25: 1-322. Safford, R. J. Inpress. A second record of the Northern White-tailed Bush Lark in Ethiopia. Scopus. Urban, E. K. & Brown, L. H. 1971. A Checklist of the Birds of Ethiopia. Haile Sellassie I University, Addis Ababa. Address : Godshill Wood, Fordingbridge, Hants. SP6 2LR, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 J. Haffer 250 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) APPENDIX Records, all of which are specimens, of Mirafra albicauda and M. pulpa in Ethiopia. Murafra albicauda 21 Mar1912 1¢ Lake Abaya, SE c. 6°05’N, 37°55’E Friedmann 1937 22 Mar 1912 2¢¢ Lake Abaya, S c. 6°O1'N, 37°S0'E Friedmann 1937 24 Mar1912 13 Black Lake Abaya c. 5°59'N, 37°46'E Friedmann 1937 20 Sep 1990 lo Nechisar Plain 6°00'N, 37°47'E Safford in press Muirafra pulpa 19May 1912 1¢ Sagon (= Sagan) 5°10'N, 37°37'E Friedmann 1937 River Notes: (a) The first 4 localities are within a few kilometres of each other and are best regarded as being the same and within the bounds of the Nechisar Plain. There is confusion over localities in Friedmann (1937): in his detailed list of collecting localities he states he was at North or “Black”? Lake Abaya on 17—22 March 1912 and at South or ‘“‘White”’ L. Abaya on 24-26 March (p. 8). I assume that the Black Lake mentioned on 24 March in the details of specimens collected (p.17 in Part 2) is an error for White Lake, for the expedition was moving south then. Thus: Black Lake Abaya=L. Margherita=present day L. Abaya, 6°20'N, 37°55’E; White Lake Abaya= L. Ruspoli=present day L. Chamo, 5°50/N, 37°40’E; Nechisar Plain is centred on 6°00'N, 37°47'E. (b) Berlioz (1922) records a 3 specimen of M. cheniana chadensis = M. cantillans chadensis in May 1902 at 820m on the Plaine Netch-sar (‘‘rive gauche de |’Omo’’). This could be the same as Safford’s locality, although this is at 1100 m, because the collector was in the L. Abaya area in May and did not arrive at the Omo until later. However, there may be an error of locality or date, and there are others in the paper, so that in addition to the need to confirm the identification of this specimen there is another element of doubt involved. Parapatric species of birds by fiirgen Haffer Received 16 January 1992 Parapatric species of birds occupy contiguous or narrowly overlapping ranges. hey exclude each other geographically with no or only restricted hybridization along their contact zones, their abrupt replacement in many cases traceable over hundreds of kilometers. When hybridization occurs at the contact zone, the representatives are considered as species if each parental phenotype comprises at least 5°% of the population along the contact zone (Short 1969, 1972). In these cases, the occurrence of parental phenotypes is indicative of impediments to gene flow. By contrast, ahybrid zone between subspecies consists exclusively or almost exclusively of variously intermediate individuals (hybrids), each parental phenotype comprising less than 5°% of the population at the contact zone. Smith (1955, 1965) added ‘parapatry’ to the group of terms designating the geographical relationships of allied populations of organisms (allopatry, sympatry; see Mayr 1978). Parapatric species are more common than previously suspected, particularly in the tropics. Very few field studies ¥. Haffer 251 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) have so far tested the hypothesis that many parapatric distribution patterns are maintained by interspecific competition along the contact zones of the representative species. Erwin Stresemann (1939: 360) discussed the geographical replacement of taxa which have reached genetic-reproductive isolation (and thus species status) but still retain the same ecological requirements. He stated: ‘““T'wo (such) forms ... compete with each other for space and where they met during range extension, they abut sharply against each other without forming hybrids ... Examples of such situations are probably much more common than currently known’’ (translated from German). Ina pioneering survey, David Lack (1944) investigated eco- logical aspects of the speciation process and recognized parapatry as one possible outcome of the interactions when differentiating forms come into secondary contact. One species is better adapted than the other in part of their combined ranges, the other in the rest, he said. Mayr (1951) and Vaurie (1955) stressed the theoretical importance of parapatric species listing, respectively, 18 and 23 ‘“‘pseudo-conspecific”’ pairs from the Old World avifaunas. Keast (1 961) and Vuilleumier (1 981) discussed, from an ecological perspective, speciation phenomena i in Australian and South American birds, respectively. General reviews of the ecological relation- ships of species including the occasional geographical exclusion of closely allied forms have been published by Mayr (1963, 1969), MacArthur (1972), Selander (1969, 1971), Brown & Gibson (1983), and Connor & Bowers (1987). Haffer (1989) reviewed the parapatric bird species of the Palaearctic Region. Parapatry in animals involves the following three situations (Key 1981): First, hybridization parapatry between semispecies (s. sty.) which form a “zone of overlap and hybridization’”’ (Short 1969, 1972). In this case (Fig. 1, Aa) the two forms are genetically isolated despite the occurrence of (largely infertile) hybrids. Little backcrossing occurs. This situation grades into normal hybrid zones between subspecies. Among birds, no cases are known where, comparable to the morabine grasshoppers (Key 1981), post-mating isolating mechanisms have been fully developed prior to the functioning of pre-mating isolating mechanisms. In the grass- hoppers mentioned above, individuals of the representatives hybridize freely at the contact zone but produce either no offspring or completely sterile young. Secondly, competition parapatry between paraspecies which exclude each other in an ecologically more or less uniform or gradually changing habitat zone with no or almost no overlap or hybrid- ization about a sharply defined contact zone. The latter is often complex and intricate when studied in detail in the field (Fig. 1, Ab—d). The main- tenance of the contact zone is here due to interactions between the species in contact (aggressive interference or resource exploitation). Thirdly, ecological parapatry comprises situations where an ecotone separates the ranges of two closely related or more distantly related bird species which inhabit, e.g., savanna on one hand and rain forest on the other hand. Geographical exclusion of these allies is an effect of totally different habitat preferences of the representatives and is not due to interspecific competition (Fig. 1, Bb). On the other hand, two representative species inhabiting adjoining and ecologically different vegetation zones which F. Haffer 252 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) merge gradually, e.g. regions of dry and moist forest zones, may exclude each other abruptly in the ecologically intermediate transition zone due to interspecific competition (Fig. 1, Ba). In such cases, the environmental ee | 0) 100 km 1. ‘ 2 : +) 6 : 7 8 ITF ll cr tm B 0 100 km CQ eee — — - — > —— ————————— 5 9 10 > —§ 11 12 poe evil 0, D> S| 0 100 km JF. Haffer 253 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) gradients do not seem to be steep enough to account for the abrupt geo- graphic replacement of members of species pairs. In a similar manner, two more or less closely related allies of montane birds with comparable altitudinal preferences (as known from areas where only one of them occurs) may be segregated altitudinally due to ecological competition in areas where both occur (Fig. 1, C). In other cases, the altitudinal replace- ment of closely related species is due to their totally different ecological preferences, and interspecific competition is not implicated. We may generally distinguish between altitudinal or ‘vertical’ parapatry (and allopatry) and lowland or ‘horizontal’ parapatry (and allopatry). Probable examples for all situations listed above are known, although detailed field studies have been conducted in only a few selected cases. Large non- passerine birds may maintain parapatry even if they belong to very distinct species or genera; e.g. Ring-necked Pheasants exclude Prairie Chickens by monopolizing all the good cover (L.S. Short, pers. comm.). The term parapatry, as here understood, refers to the ecological relation- ships of vicariant species in contact irrespective of their systematic status as sister species or as less closely related species. Numerous examples of parapatric species have been recognized in different groups of birds and other animals, particularly in the tropics, during recent decades (Mayr 1969, 1980, Mayr & O’Hara 1986, Hall & Moreau 1970, Snow 1978, Bock & Farrand 1980, Haffer 1974, 1986, 1987, 1989). The distribution patterns of superspecies resemble large-scale mosaics composed of the neatly interlocking ranges of the component semi- and paraspecies. The assumption that these species compete eco- logically in some way or ways, and for this reason continue to replace each other geographically (Lack 1944, 1971, Mayr 1963, 1969, Selander 1971), has been tested by field studies in only a few cases. Very often, the basic pattern of geographic replacement probably is a legacy of the process of geographic speciation, whereas the mechanism of maintaining geo- graphical exclusion along the contact zones presumably is a process of interspecific competition. Figure 1. Ecological relations of parapatric species of birds. Schematic representation. A— Geographical replacement of species in a rather uniform vegetation zone. The range of each ally would be presumably more extensive in the absence of the respective geographical representative. (a) Hybridization parapatry between species 1 and 2; this situation grades into narrow zones of overlap and hybridization (and into broad overlap zones where occasional hybridization occurs). (b) Competition parapatry between species 3 and 4. (c) Overlap zone where species 5 and 6 remain interspecifically territorial. (d) Species 7 and 8 overlap their ranges to some extent occupying mutually exclusive patchy areas of varying size (these areas may or may not differ ecologically to some extent; e.g. higher versus lower terrain in a gently rolling landscape where the parapatric species meet). B—Geographical exclusion of species in the transition zone between ecologically different vegetation areas I and II (schematically indicated by a regionally changing environmental parameter). (a) Competition parapatry between species 9 and 10 whose ranges presumably would be some- what more extensive in the absence of the competitor (dashed arrows). (b) Geographical replacement of species 11 and 12 which have totally different ecological preferences and are not in contact. C—Altitudinal species replacement in a mountainous region due to ecologi- cal competition. Species 1 and 2 have similar altitudinal ranges where they occur alone but segregate altitudinally where they come in contact. Species 2 ranges down to the lowlands and up into higher mountain zones where species 1 and 3, respectively, are missing (arrows). Vertical scale in thousand metres. F. Haffer 254 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Terborgh (1971), Diamond (1973, 1975, 1986) and Terborgh & Weske (1975) reported abrupt replacements of related bird species along elevational gradients of tropical mountains which are probably due to ecological competition. Moreover, in the absence of several upper montane species ‘on isolated mountain massifs the respective lower mon- tane representatives expanded their elevational ranges correspondingly upward. Prigogine (1984a,b, 1985) summarized the available evidence for ecological competition between closely allied parapatric bird species in the African tropics emphasizing the dynamic nature of the contact zones, especially in mountainous regions. Short & Horne (1985) added infor- mation on interspecific territoriality in the barbets Stactolaema whytiu and S. anchietae in the area of contact. In the north Temperate Zone, Short (1969) reviewed several species pairs which form zones of overlap and hybridization of varying width in North America (e.g. species of Vermivora, Pheucticus, Passerina) as well as closely related species which have only recently become broadly sympatric (species of Sturnella). Selander & Giller (1959, 1963), Emlen et al. (1975), Ferry & Deschaintre (1974), Ferry (1977, 1980), Faivre (1986), Martens (1982), Sorjonen (1986) and Lille & Moritz (1988), conducted field studies along contact zones of narrowly overlapping or completely parapatric species of woodpeckers, buntings, Old World warblers and nightingales, respectively, document- ing competitive interactions and interspecific territoriality. Ferry (1977, 1980) identified sexual differences in species recognition as underlying reproductive isolation and interspecific territoriality in the warblers Hippolais icterina and H. polyglotta. Females of other species also use certain features of male songs and calls in species recognition whereas males do not (Searcy & Brenowitz 1988). Regarding some Old World warblers (e.g. species of Sylvia, Acrocephalus, Locustella, Phylloscopus), Cody (1979: 224) stated that close congeners with similar foraging ecolo- gies may meet where their ranges abut or at intermediate points ona habitat gradient and defend territories between species as if but a single species were involved. This occurs particularly in simple or successional habitats. The dynamic nature of the differentiation between geographically representative species is particularly obvious in those cases where the relations of sister species are different in different portions of the con- tact zone. Some selected examples are: Milvus migrans and M. lineatus hybridize at the contact zone in the Ural Mountains but are sympatric at a second area of contact in the western Himalaya (Stresemann 1959); Buteo buteo and B. vulpinus hybridize in the Mediterranean Region and broadly overlap in northeastern Europe (Glutz et al. 1971: 480); Alectoris graeca and A. chukar form hybrids in some areas of contact but not in others in eastern Bulgaria (Watson 1962, Dragoev 1974); Larus argentatus and L. cachinnans form hybrids at the Murman coast but do not hybridize at the coast of western France (Glutz & Bauer 1982; Yesou 1991); Passer 1. italiae and P. domesticus hybridize along the contact zone in the Alps, whereas P. 1. hispaniolensis and P. domesticus are broadly sympatric in an extensive overlap zone in the Mediterranean Region (Summers-Smith 1988); Pipilo erythrophthalmus and P. ocai hybridize in western and eastern Mexico but are sympatric without hybridization in other areas of the same region (Sibley & Sibley 1964). ¥. Haffer 255 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) The study of parapatric bird species along their contact zones has been largely neglected in the past, despite the preliminary analyses mentioned above and the availability of the detailed distribution maps of numerous superspecies of tropical birds published during the last 20 years (e.g. Hall & Moreau 1970, Snow 1978, 1982, Urban et al. 1986, Fry et al. 1988, Haffer 1974, 1987). Many of these maps graphically illustrate the exclusion patterns of paraspecies. However, it is not the systematist 1n the museum but, as B.P. Hall (in Hall & Moreau 1970: IX) emphasized, “‘. it is the man in the field ... who can provide the key to many of the problems of relationship ... and the maps draw attention to the critical areas in which comparative field study is most needed ...”’, i.e. the areas of contact between parapatric species. ‘““Such parapatric contact zones provide ecologists with a golden opportunity to discover the environ- mental factors that determine the placement of the dividing line at that particular location” (Mayr 1969: 14). Field studies are urgently needed in view of rapid habitat destruction by man in many areas of the world, particularly in the tropics. Still to be determined for most instances of parapatry are: (1) What is the situation regarding the local distribution of the rep- resentative species? Do the contact zones remain stationary or do they fluctuate regionally or shift gradually in a certain direction? (2) In which manner is each zone of parapatry maintained? Which mechanisms assure reproductive isolation of the species along their zone of contact? Does reinforcement of pre-mating isolating mechanisms and/or of ecological segregation between the species take place at the contact zones? Do agonistic behavioural responses (interference competition) or resource preemption (exploitation competition) by their respective representatives prevent parapatric species from overlapping their ranges? (3) Why did parapatry originate in each case? Are the locations of contact zones the results of historical causes or of current ecologi- cal conditions? Why do parapatric species not penetrate each other’s ranges? In instances of sympatry, these species might be expected to maintain interspecific territories or to occupy mutually exclusive patchy areas of varying extent. (4) When did the parapatric species originate and when did they establish contact? ‘These open problems of the ecological and systematic relationships of parapatric species need to be addressed regardless of whether some or all of the latter are considered taxonomically as species or still conspecific under a broad species concept. All cases of parapatry probably involve some level of reproductive interaction and reinforcement of pre-mating isolating mechanisms as well as of ecological segregation. Parapatric species illustrate the final stages of the speciation process which is com- plete only after sympatry of the two allies in contact has been achieved. However, not all speciating taxa pass necessarily through all stages of the microtaxonomice differentiation process (including the advanced stage of parapatry). Strongly isolated small populations on islands or on different continents may differentiate rather rapidly and directly from low levels of F. Haffer 256 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) microtaxonomic modification to the status of fully compatible biospecies. On the other hand, many continental species that differentiated through ‘splitting’ from fairly large isolated populations resulting from fragmen- tation of an ancestral continental species range, probably differentiated more slowly. Consequently, taxa at various intermediate levels of micro- taxonomic differentiation are comparatively common in continental faunas (overlap and hybridization; parapatry). Emphasizing the import- ance of sexual selection and social competition during speciation in many groups of animals, West-Eberhard (1983) concluded that the main- tenance of parapatric species boundaries may be due to competitive exclusion between populations which, in geographic separation, diverged rapidly and comparatively recently with respect to social characters (rather than ecological requirements). This interesting suggestion needs to be investigated in the numerous species pairs of birds with highly divergent life styles where parapatry occurs. In order to direct the attention of field ornithologists to the relatively frequent occurrence of parapatry in birds and to facilitate the selection of species pairs for detailed study, I have compiled lists of examples of parapatric species from the Holarctic, Afrotropical, Neotropical and Australian avifaunas (Appendix). In most cases, these species are each other’s closest relatives or at least are fairly closely related. On the basis of currently available information, they inhabit contiguous ranges exclud- ing each other geographically with no or only restricted hybridization along their zones of contact. The latter are located in ecologically rather uniform habitats or in transition zones where, however, the often gradual ecological change does not explain the abrupt replacement of the rep- resentatives, one of which presumably is superior on one side of the contact zone, and the other species on the other side. Several contact zones probably follow more sharply defined ecotones. The lists 1n the Appendix are not complete. Additional parapatric species pairs certainly exist in regions which I have surveyed incompletely, like South America, and in other regions which I have not surveyed at all, like southeast Asia. Some of the geographically representative species, upon close study of the contact zones, may be found to hybridize to such an extent that they have to be considered as conspecific. This, however, seems unlikely for most pairs listed since many specimens collected near the contact zones fail to show signs of hybridization. In several other cases, the representa- tives may turn out to be sympatric in a broad overlap zone where they may inhabit conspicuously different habitats, thus rarely coming in contact. In Amazonia, a number of parapatric representatives inhabit opposite sides of broad rivers which form the range limits at least over some distances. However, these representatives often are in direct parapatric contact in areas where the rivers cease to be barriers, either because they become increasingly narrow in the headwater regions or because one of the representatives has managed to cross the river barrier. Ecologically similar representative species may develop or complete ecological segregation through competitive interactions in parapatry eventually permitting range overlap and sympatry, as suggested by Lack (1944), Mayr (1963), Bock (1979) and Grant (1986). However, the relatively frequent occurrence of parapatric species indicates that such ¥. Haffer 257 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) processes may take many thousands of years or more. The parapatric members of two musophagid species pairs 1n Africa are believed to have diverged from each other less than 1.4 and about 10 million years ago, respectively (Fry et al. 1988: XIII). In cases of three to six (or more) closely related parapatric or allopatric representative species which originated during several successive speciation events, the reasons for the delay in these species attaining ecological compatibility remain obscure. Hopefully, field ornithologists will study increasingly the phen- omenon of parapatry in birds to clarify the main open ecological and systematic problems associated with species which exclude each other geographically along sharply defined contact zones. Summary Parapatric species of birds occupy contiguous or narrowly overlapping ranges. They often exclude each other geographically along sharply defined contact zones. In ecologically fairly uniform or gradually changing regions, parapatric species either form a zone of overlap and hybridization (semispecies in hybridization parapatry) or they exclude each other without hybridization, probably due to ecological competition (paraspecies in competition parapatry). A third parapatric situation involves species inhabiting fairly distinct adjoining habitat zones where the species replace each other geographically along the ecotone (ecologi- cal parapatry). Only few parapatric contact zones of birds have been studied in sufficient detail to be certain about the cause of geographical replacement. Examples of apparently parapatric species in the Holarctic, Afrotropical, Neotropical and Australian avifaunas are listed in the Appendix to document the frequent occurrence of parapatry in birds and to encourage the study of these species in areas where they come in contact. 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Ecological aspects of speciation in birds, with special reference to South American birds. Pp. 101-148 im Reig. O. (ed.), Ecologia y Genética de la Especiacion Animal. Univ.S. Bolivar, Caracas. J. Haffer 260 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Watson, G. E. 1962. Three sibling species of Alectoris partridge. [bis 104: 353-367. West-Eberhard, M. J. 1983. Sexual selection, social competition, and speciation. QO. Rev. Biol. 58: 155-183. Yésou, P. 1991. The sympatric breeding of Larus fuscus, L. cachinnans and L. argentatus in western France. Jbis 133: 256-263. Address: Dr J. H. Hafter, Tommesweg 60, D-4300 Essen 1, Germany. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 APPENDIX List of parapatric species of birds from the Palaearctic Region, North American Region, Afrotropical Region, Neotropical Region, and Australian Region. Notes: O—narrow overlap of ranges; H—limited hybridization at the contact zone; A—altitudinal replacement in regional contact zone. Palaearctic Region: Examples as discussed by Haffer (1989). North American Region: Examples are drawn from Mayr & Short (1970) and American Ornithologists’ Union (1983) Check-list of North American birds, 6th edition. Afrotropical Region: Examples are drawn from Hall & Moreau (1970), Snow (1978), Mayr & O'Hara (1986), Urban et al. (1986), Fry et al. (1988), Fry (1988). Numbers in front of many species names refer to the respective map number (P—passerine birds, Hall & Moreau 1970; NP—non-passerine birds, Snow 1978). Neotropical Region: Numbers preceding species names refer to the following publications which include distribution maps and discussions: 1—Haffer 1967a, 2—Haffer 1967b, 3—Haffer 1969, 4—Haffer 1970, 5—Haffer 1974, 6—Haffer 1975, 7—Haffer 1977a, 8—Haffer 1977b, 9—Haffer 1985, 10—Haffer 1987, 11—Haffer 1988, 12—Delacour & Amadon 1973, 13—Snow 1982, 14—Novaes 1981, 15—Isler & Isler 1987. Australian Region: Examples are drawn from Keast 1961, Blakers et al. 1984, and Ford 1987, his Fig. 5. Palaearctic Region Accipiter brevipes/ A. badius/ A. soloensis Buteo rufinus/B. hemilasius (A) Falco biarmicus/F. cherrug/F jugger (O) Falco peregrinus|F. pelegrinoides Alectoris rufa/ A graeca| A. chukar (H) Perdix perdix/P. dauuricae Coturnix coturnix|/C. japonica Tragopan melanocephalus/T. satyra| T. blythi| T. temminckii Lophophorus impeyanus/L. sclateri Lophura leucomelana/L. nycthemera (H,A) Lophura imperialis/L. edwardsi Crossoptilon crossoptilon/C. auritum Syrmaticus reevesi/S. ellioti Chrysolophus pictus/C. amherstiae Larus argentatus/L. cachinnans (H) Streptopelia turtur|.S. orientalis (O) Merops apiaster|/M. leschenaulti Picus viridis/P. squamatus Picoides leucopterus/P. major/P. syriacus| P. assimilis/P himalayensis (O,H,A) Ammomanes phoenicurus/ A. cincturus Melanocorypha calandra|M. bimaculata (A) Melanocorypha leucoptera/M. mongolica Calandrella cinerea/C. acutirostris Calandrella rufescens/C. cheleensis Galerida cristata|/G. theklae (A) Alauda arvensis/A. gulgula Eremophila alpestris/E. bilopha (A) Ptyonoprogne fuligula/P. rupestris/ P. concolor Delichon urbica/D. dasypus Anthus campestris| A. godlewskii Anthus spinoletta/ A. rubescens Motacilla flavissima|M. flava/M. lutea| M. taivana Motacilla alba|M. maderaspatensis (A) Luscinia magarhynchos|L. luscinia (O) Luscinia pectoralis/L. calliope (A) Saxicola torquata/S. leucura Oenanthe hispanica/O. pleschanka (H) Oenanthe leucura/O. leucopygia Turdus naumanni|T. ruficollis (A) Turdus obscurus/T. pallidus Locustella fluviatilis/L. lanceolata Locusstella naevialL. certhiola| L. ochotensis (H) Acrocephalus arundinaceus/A. stentoreus Hippolais polyglotta/H. icterina (O) Hippolais olivetorum|H. languida Sylvia curruca)S. althaea/,S. minula (H,A) Sylvia melanocephala|S. mystacea F. Haffer Phylloscopus collybita/P. lorenzii (A) Phylloscopus trochilotdes/P. nitidus Phylloscopus affinis/P. subaffinis Ficedula albicollis/F. semitorquata Garrulax maximus/G. ocellatus (A) Pomatorhinus erythrogenys| P. erythrocnemis Paradoxornis paradoxa/P. unicolor Aegithalos niveogularis|A. iouschistos Aegithalos concinnus| A. leucogenys Parus major|P. bokharensts (H) Parus caeruleus/P. cyanus (H,O) Parus rubidiventris/P. beavani Parus xanthogenys|P. spilonotus Sitta nagaensis/S.castanea 261 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Lanuus collurio/L. cristatus Lantus tephronotus/L. schach (A) Corvus monedula/C. dauuricus (H) Corvus corone/C. torquatus Corvus corax/C. ruficollis (H) Sturnus unicolor|S. vulgaris (O) Passer domesticus/P. italiae/P. indicus (H) Pycnonotus leucotis/P. leucogenys (H) Carduelis flammea/C. hornemanni (O) Loxia curvirostra|/L. scotica Bucanetes githagineus/B. mongolicus (A) Emberiza melanocephala|E. bruniceps (H) Emberiza cia/E. godlewskii Emberiza hortulana|E. caesia/ E. buchanani (A) North American Region Gavia immer/G. adamsi (H) Gavia arctica/G. pacifica (H) Plegadts falcinellus|P. chthi (O) Callipepla californica/C. gambelii (H) Pluvialis dominica|P. fulva (O) Larus thayeri/L. glaucoides Selasphorus rufus/S. sasin Picoides scalaris/P. nuttalli (H) Melanerpes carolinus|M. aurtfrons/ M. uropygialts (H) Sphyrapicus varius|S. ruber (H) Contopus virens/C. sordidulus (H) Parus hudsonicus|P. cinctus| P. rufescens Parus atricapillus/P. carolinensis Dendroica occidentalis/D. townsendi Pheucticus ludovicianus| P. melanocephalus Passerina cyanea] P. amoena (H,O) Polioptila californica! P. melanura Afrotropical Region NP 79 Circaetus cinerascens/C. fasciolatus NP 235 Crinifer piscator/C. zonurus| NP 85 Accipiter tachiro/ A. toussenellii (H) Criniferoides leucogaster NP 88 Melierax metabates/M. canorus| NP 236 Corythaixoides personata| M. poliopterus C. concolor NP 93 Buteo augur/B. rufofuscus NP 237 Tauraco persa|T. schutti|/ NP 117 Falco ardostacus|F. dickinsoni T. livingstonii|T. fischeri NP 122 Francolinus ahantensis/ NP 237 Tauraco livingstoniu|T. corythaix FP’. squamatus NP 239 Musophaga violacea/M. rossae NP 124 Francolinus leucoscepus| Musophaga johnstoni| F.. rufopictus/F. afer| M. porphyreolophus F.. swainsonu NP 253 Centropus leucogaster/C. anselli NP 125 Francolinus bicalcaratus| Cercococcyx olivinus| F. clappertoni/F. icterorhynchos| C. montanus (A) F. hildebrandti|F. natalensis Caprimulgus inornatus/C. stellatus NP 128 Francolinus albogularis|F. schlegelii Caprimulgus climacurus/C. clarus/ NP 137 Guttera edouardi/G. plumifera/ C. fossi G. pucherani NP 295 Apus bradfieldi/A. barbatus NP 166 Eupodotis vigorsi/E. rueppellii NP 299 Colius striatus/C. castanotus NP 169 Eupodotis afra/E. afraoides NP 300 Urocolius macrourus] U. indicus NP 170 Neotis denhami/N. heuglini NP 311 Halcyon senegalensis/ NP 171 Neotis kori/N. arabs H. senegaloides NP 180 Vanellus spinosus|V. armatus NP 315 Merops bulocki/M. bullockoides NP 193 Cursorius temmincki/C. cursor Merops variegatus/ NP 215 Streptopelia vinacea/S. capicola M. oreobates (A) NP 225 Turtur abyssinicus/T. chalcospilos NP 325 Coracias abyssinica/C. caudata NP 228 Treron calva|T. waalia Phoeniculus cyanomelas| NP 229 Poicephalus gulielmi/P. robustus P. aterrimus NP 230 Poicephalus meyeri/P. senegalus| NP 335 Ceratogymna fistulator| P. crassus|P. flavifrons/ C. bucinator P. rufiventris/P. cryptoxanthus| NP 337 Bucorvus abyssinicus/B. leadbeateri P. rueppellii Tockus fasciatus/T. alboterminalis/ NP 232 Agapornis pullaria| A. personata T. bradfieldi JF. Haffer NP 344 NP 346 NP 349 NP 352 NP 354 NP 367 NP 377 NP 379 NP 388 NP 390 1 76 ae) ae] 0) wMio'd mid ac) ro qo jqo [sla 0) a2 Figo )ino jaca igo) ime) Ln}aqo}ilas) oo Ww - — ae) = ow = Ul ae} rey (=) nN P 107 Pals Pld a lule7, P 118 P 120 Lybius dubius/L. rolleti/ L. bidentatus Lybius leucocephalus/L. rubrifacies| L. torquatus Lybius frontatus/L. leucomelas (H) Stactolaema anchietae|S. whytii/ S. leucotis Gymnobucco peli/G. sladeni Indicator conirostris/I. minor (H) Campethera punctuligera| C. nubica/C. bennettii Campethera maculosa| C. cailliautiit Dendropicos pyrrhogaster| D. xantholophus/D. namaquus Dendropicos goertae/ D. griseocephalus Pitta angolensis/P. reichenowi Mirafra passerina/M. cheniana Mirafra rufocinnamomea| M. apiata/M. collaris Murafra africana] M. hypermetra (H) Murafra poecilosterna/M. gilletti Alaemon alaudipes/ A. hamertoni Calandrella conirostris/C. sclateri Calendrella starki/C. fringillaris Galerida cristata/G. malabarica Eremopterix nigriceps/E. signata/ E. leucopareia Eremopterix leucotis/E. australis Hirundo nigrita/H. smithi Hirundo lucida] H. aethiopica| H. angolensis/H. albigularis Hirundo abyssinica/H. cucullata Psalidoprogne obscura] P. pristoptera Anthus pallidiventris/ A. leucophrys or A. vaalensis Anthus lineiventris/ A. crenatus Macronyx croceus/M. fulleborni| M. capensis Macronyx ameliae/M. aurantigula Campephaga petiti/C. flava (H) Pycnonotus barbatus/P. nigricans| P. capensis Chlorocichla falkensteini| C. flaviventris Phyllastrephus scandens|P. fischeri| P. fulviventris Prionops caniceps/P. rufiventris Tchagra tchagra|T. australis| T. jamesi Laniarius barbarus/L. erythrogaster Laniarius turatii/L. aethiopicus| L. bicolor/L. ferrugineus Lanius gubernator/L. souzae Lanius excubitorius/L. cabanisi Lanius excubitor/L. somalicus| L. dorsalis Corvinella corvina/C. melanoleuca Oenanthe bottae/O. pileata 262 P 126 P 129 P 130 P 138 Bii39. P 150 Piss Bel Sy P73 P174 P 198 P 201 P 205 P 209 P 226 R227; P 231 P 232 P233 P 240 P 250 P 261 P 268 P 269 P 273 P 274 P27. P 280 P 281 P 288 By292 P 300 P 301 P 303 P 306 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Cercomela familiaris/C. scotocerca| C. melanura Monticola brevipes|/M. explorator| M. angolensis Myrmecocichla aethiops/M. nigra] M. formicivora Cercotrichas barbata| C. quadrivirgata|C. signata Cichladusa arquata/C. guttata Cossypha natalensis/C. dichroa Neocossyphus finschi| N. fraseri Turdus pelios/ T. tephronotus| T. libonyanus Turdoides reinwardti/T. tenebrosus|/ T. sharpei/T. hypoleucus/ T. leucopygius|T. melanops| T. bicolor Turdoides plebejus| T. jardinei| T. gymnogenys Cisticola ruficeps/C. nana Cisticola lateralis/C. woosnami| C. bulliens Prinia subflava/P. somalica| P. flavicans/P. maculosa Spiloptila clamans/S. rufifrons Camaroptera brachyura| C. brevicauda (H) Camaroptera simplex/C. stierlingt/ C. fasciolata/C. subcinnamomea Eremomela icteropygialis|/ E. salvadorii/E. flavocrissalis Eremomela pusilla/E. canescens| E. scotops Evremomela atricollis/E. usticollis Macrosphenus kempi/M. flavicans Melaenornis edolioides| M. pammelaina Batts senegalensis/B. orientalis| B. perkeo/B. molitor/B. soror| B. pririt Erannornis longicauda| E. albicauda Trochocercus albiventris/ T. albonotatus Parus griseiventris|/P. afer Parus leucomelas/P. niger Anthoscopus punctifrons/ A. parvulus/A. musculus] A. caroli| A. minutus Promerops cafer|P. gurneyi Anthreptes collaris/A. platurus| A. metallicus Nectarinia osea/N. bouvieri| N. habessinica/N. oustaleti/ N. talatala Nectarinia pulchella/N. chalybea|/ N. neergardi Nectarinia olivacea|N. violacea Nectarinia senegalensis|N. hunteri Nectarinia verticalis| N. bannermani Zosterops senegalensis/Z. pallida F. Haffer 263 P 319 Serinus mozambicus/ Pisa S. dorsostriatus P 377 P 320 Serinus leucopygius/.S. atrogularis/ S. citrinipectus P 378 P 321 Serinus donaldsoni|S. sulphuratus|/ P 391 S. flaviventris P 330 Ploceus melanocephalus| P 394 P. taeniopterus Pis97, P 332 Ploceus badius/P. rubiginosus P 345 Malimbus scutatus/M. cassini P 403 P 346 Malimbus ibadanensis/ M. erythrogaster P 406 P 351 Euplectes franciscanus]E. orix/ E. nigroventris P 409 P 353 Euplectes afer/E. diadematus P 361 Passer griseus/P. gongonensis/ P 410 P. suahelicus/P. diffusus P 365 Passer luteus/P. eminibey P 422 P 366 Petronia dentata/P. pyrgita| P 430 P. superciliaris P 436 Neotropical Region Amazonia 9 10 5,10 Psophia crepitans/P. leucoptera|/ P. viridis 10 3,12 Ortalis guttata/O.motmot/ 10 O. supercilaris 12. Crax alector/C. globulosa| 5,13 C. fasciolata 4,13 9,12 Mitu tomentosa! M. salvini|M. mitu 4,13 10 Pyrrhura rhodogaster|P. perlata 4 10 Pyrrhura melanura/P. picta 10 Brotogeris cyanoptera/ 4 B. chrysopterus 8,14 Pionites melanocephalus| 4 P. leucogaster 4 Pionopsitta barrabandi/ P. vulturina!P. caica 4,15 7 Neomorphus geoffroyi/M. pucherani 6,15 5 Galbalcyrhynchus leucotis/ G. purusianus 8,15 5 Galbula albirostris/G. cyanicollis 10,15 5 Galbula tombacea/G. cyanescens| G. galbula/G. rufoviridis 11 Monasa nigrifrons|M. atra 11 Monasa morphoeus|/M. atra 10 Malacoptila fusca] M. semicincta 5 Selenidera culik|S. nattereri/ 3,12 S. reinwardti|S. gouldii 10 5 Pteroglossus flavirostris/ 10 P. bitorquatus 5 Pteroglossus pluricinctus|/ 4 P. beauharnaesi/P. aracari 5 5 Celeus grammicus/C. undatus 11 Hylexetastes stresemanni|/ 5 H. perrotu 5 11. Campylorhamphus trochilirostris| 10 C. procurvoides (0) 5 10 Thamnophilus cryptoleucus| C. nigrocinereus Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Bubalornis albirostris/B. niger Pytilia hypogrammica| P. phoenicoptera/P. afra Vidua interjecta/V. paradisea Uraeginthus bengalus/ U. angolensis Estrilda troglodytes/E. astrild Estrilda erythronotus| E. charmosyna Ortygospiza atricollis/ O. gabonensis Amadina fasciata| A. erythrocephala Lamprotornis chloropterus/ L. acuticaudus Lamprotornis caudatus/ L. purpuropterus Cosmopsarus regius/C. unicolor Oriolus percivali/O. larvatus (H) Corvus albus/C. edithae Cercomacra nigrescens/C. tyrannina Hypocnemoides maculicauda| H. melanopogon Myrmeciza melanoceps/M. goeldiu Thamnomanes schistogynus| T. caesius Cotinga maynana/C. cotinga Xipholena punicea|X. lamellipennis Phoenicircus nigricollis/P. carnifex Pipra erythrocephala| P. chloromeros/P. rubrocapilla Pipra coronata|P. natterert/ P. vilasboasi|P. iris Pipra filicauda|P. fasciicauda| P. aureola Lophotriccus vitiosus/L. eulophotes Euphonia rufiventris/E. cayennensis Euphonia laniurostris| E. violacea (O) Lanius fulvus/L. versicolor Tachyphonus rufiventer| T. cristatus Eastern Colombia—southern Venezuela (upper Rio Negro—Rio Orinoco region) Ortalis guttata/O. motmot Pyrrhura melanura|P. picta Brotogeris cyanoptera| B. chrysopterus Pionopsitta barrabandi|P. caica Galbula tombacea/G. galbula Monasa morphoeus/M. atra Selenidera nattereri/,S. culik Pteroglossus pluricinctus/P. aracari Veniliornis affinis/ V. cassint Celeus grammicus/C. undatus Xiphorhynchus ocellatus/ X. pardalotus D.W. Snow & B. K. Snow 264 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Myrmotherula hauxwelli| 6 Campylorhynchus albobrunneus| M. guttata _C. zonatus 6 Gymnopithys leucaspis/G. rufigula 6 Psarocolius cassini/P. guatimozinus Tyranneutes stolzmanni|/ 15 Tangara lavinia|T. gyrola T. virescens 6,15 Cyanerpes caeruleus/C. lucidus 6 Cyanocorax violaceus/C. cayanus 6,15 Heterospingus xanthopygius/ 4,15 Euphonia rufiventris/ H. rubrifrons E. cayennensis 6,15 Euphonia lanitrostris/E. violacea Central America Phloeoceastes guatemalensis/ P. melanoleucus NW Colombia—E Panama 6 Aramides wolfi/ A. cajanea Dysithamnus puncticeps| 2,6,12 Crax rubra/C. alberti D. striaticeps 4 Pionopsitta pulchra/P. haematotis Synallaxis erythrothorax| 6 Trogon comptus/T. melanurus S. brachyura 5,6 Ramphastos brevis/R. vitellinus 15 Lanio aurantius/L. leucothorax citreolaemus/R. sulfuratus 15 Ramphocelus passerinii| 6 Formicarius nigricapillus/F. analis R. flammigerus 6 Pittasoma rufopileatum|P. michleri 15 Thraupis abbas/T. palmarum 1,4,6 Pipra mentalis/P. erythrocephala 15 Euphonia affinis/E. luteicapilla 1,6 Rhynchocephalus brevirostris/ R. olivaceus Australia Turnix varia! T. olivit Malurus elegans/M. pulcherrimus/ Petrophassa albipennis/P. rufipennis M. lamberti Calyptorhynchus funereus/C. baudinii Sericornis cautus/S. pyrrhopygius Calyptorhynchus magnificus/C. lathami Sericornis beccari|S. magnirostris Cacatua sanguinea/C. pastinator| Acanthiza pusilla] A. apicalis C. tenuirostris Acanthogenys rufogularis|A. chrysoptera Cacatua leadbeateri|C. galerita Lichenostomus fuscus/L. flavescens Glossopsitta porphyrocephala|G. pusilla Melithreptus albogularis/M. lunatus Polytelis swainsonii/P. anthopeplus Ramsayornis modestus/R. fasciatus Barnarduus zonarius/B. barnardi Pardalotus punctatus/P. xanthopygius Menura alberti/M. novaehollandiae Poephila acuticauda|P. cincta Psophodes cristatus/P. occidentalis Chlamydochera maculata/C. nuchalis Cinclosoma punctatum|C. castanotum| Cracticus torquatus/C. mentalis C. alisteri/C. cinnamomeum Display of the Golden-winged Manakin Masius chrysopterus by D. W. Snow & B. K. Snow Received 20 October 1991 In July 1988, during a 6-week visit to La Planada, a forest reserve and biological research station in southwestern Colombia near the border with Ecuador, we spent 22 hours studying the courtship display and associated behaviour of the Golden-winged Manakin Masius chrysopterus, a species confined to humid subtropical forest of the Andes from western Venezuela to Peru. At the time we thought that nothing was known of its courtship; but on our return we found in our mail a recently published paper by Prum & Johnson (1987) on the Golden-winged Manakin in Ecuador, in which most aspects of the display were described in considerable detail. How- ever, in their 164 hours of observation of territorial males Prum & D. W. Snow & B. K. Snow 265 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Johnson did not record copulation, and without this any account of the elaborate display behaviour of manakins is seriously incomplete. We were fortunate in seeing copulation three times, and in some particulars our observations differ from those recorded by Prum & Johnson. Hence it seems worthwhile to give a brief account of these observations, referring to Prum & Johnson for further details of those aspects where our observations agree substantially or completely with theirs. The adult male Golden-winged Manakin is strikingly different from any other member of the family. It is mainly black, except for a golden- yellow forehead and crown (the feathers of the forecrown projecting forwards, and those of the hindcrown and nape scale-like, becoming brownish or reddish posteriorly), a concealed pale yellow patch on throat and chest, and bright yellow under-wing coverts and inner webs of the middle flight-feathers, which show conspicuously in flight. Elongated feathers on either side of the crown project backwards to form two small lateral ‘horns’. Like other manakins, the female is olive-coloured, paler below. Prum & Johnson (1987) discuss the phylogeny and relationships of the monotypic genus Masius within the Pipridae. They show that it is almost certainly most closely related to Corapipo, and one of the most striking points of agreement between these two genera is that the males display on fallen logs on the forest floor, in contrast to all other manakins, which display on perches above the ground. Spatial distribution of male territories In the montane forest around La Planada, which is moderately or steeply sloping, we found Golden-winged Manakin males displaying in two areas. In the first area, at c. 1900 m, a single male displayed out of earshot of any other. In the other area, at c. 1800 m, three males displayed within earshot but not within sight of each other, roughly 100 m apart. The territories (areas within which all observed display took place, and where the birds spent the greater part of their time) measured, in two cases, about 25 x 18 and 25 x 15 m, with the long axis up and down gullies in the mountain side. Another was in a similar situation but was not measured; the fourth one was not studied. Censuses of forest birds at La Planada (C. Samper, pers. comm.) show that Golden-winged Manakins are more or less confined to forest on moderate slopes of 10—30°. All our observations suggested that each display territory was in the undisputed possession of a single adult male. We never saw pairs of males displaying together, or visits by known males to display areas owned by other males, as Prum & Johnson (1987) did on many occasions. Display-logs In each of the three territories at which we made observations, display was centred on a fallen log which was aligned up the slope of the gully or hill side. One was c. 85 mm in diameter and on a slope of c. 20°, another c. 200 mm in diameter and on a slope of c. 25°; the third was 93 mm in diameter, its slope was not measured. Each log was well covered with moss, but had on its upper surface a small patch that was smooth and free from moss, this cleared area being in one case 150 mm and in another 45 mm long. Males pick moss from their display-logs between bouts of D. W. Snow & B. K. Snow 266 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) display, and also pick leaves and pieces of fern fronds growing adjacent to the part of the log where their display takes place. Our observations of this behaviour agree with those of Prum & Johnson. Prum & Johnson found that each male territory included 2-4 logs, the distance apart of which ranged from 5 to 40 m. We saw each male display at only one log; but, as indicated by his calls, the male which was watched for longest also displayed at two other places (presumably logs) that were out of sight. We have no reason to think that there was any difference in their use of display-logs between our birds and those studied by Prum & Johnson. What seemed significant, from our observations, was the down- hill orientation of the logs, on slopes of 20—25°, and that this fits the habitat preference indicated by Cristian Samper’s census data. As men- tioned in a later section, the orientation of the log-approach display also depended on the slope of the log. Elements of the courtship display Prum & Johnson group these into (a) advertisement calling, (b) the log- approach display and display call, and (c) displays on the log. As our observations agree closely in most respects with theirs, in the following sections we avoid as far as possible going over all the same ground in detail, and concentrate on aspects of our observations that either amplify or in some way do not tally with theirs. Advertisement calling. Males spent much the of the day calling from perches within their territory, often moving round the territory and call- ing from a variety of perches. The male that was watched for longest was present and calling in his territory for 91, 87 and 84% of the time during 3 one-hour observation periods between 11.30 and 15.30 on 20 July. During a continuous 3-hour observation period (11.00—14.00) on 22 July, he was present and calling for 79°% of the time. Silent periods, when he was probably foraging, were nearly all 1—3 minutes in length. The call is a curious low-pitched, frog-like nurrt (sonagram in Prum & Johnson 1987), given singly. Intervals between calls are variable, some- times (when the calling rate is high) only.a few seconds, often much longer. We recorded a maximum calling rate of 8 calls per minute; 4-6 per minute was commoner. This is in good agreement with Prum & Johnson, who recorded a maximum rate of 9.6 per minute. A real difference between their data and ours is that their birds called from perches 2-4 m high, whereas ours regularly called from heights up to 11 m. Possibly this was in some way related to differences in the terrain and vegetation in the two study areas. The nurrt is not loud, and so presumably serves to advertise the male’s presence to conspecifics who are in the immediate vicinity rather than as a signal to attract distant birds. The calling bird is not visually conspicuous either, as it has its plumage ruffled, appearing almost wholly black, and does not make any striking movement. We noted that males often turn on their perch between calls. Prum & Johnson described the bird as popping its head up briefly exposing the yellow throat patch at the moment of calling. We described it as stretching slightly forward at the moment of calling, so that the yellow of the throat and upper breast was momentarily visible. Probably the slight head movement is both upward and forward. D.W. Snow & B. K. Snow 267 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Log-approach and display call. From a perch some distance away (10— 15 min most of the cases that we observed, but shorter distances recorded by Prum & Johnson), the male flies obliquely down to the display-log uttering a high-pitched whistle, lands on the log with a short two-note call, and immediately jumps back along the log in the direction from which he approached (for a distance of 30-40 cm according to Prum & Johnson, but see below; not measured by us), at the same time giving a third note which we transcribed as ker but which Prum & Johnson show is similar in structure to, but shorter than, the advertising nurrt. As it jumps, the bird turns in the air, to land facing its original landing place. The landing-and-jump is so rapid that the effect is of a 3-note call pk-k-ker, which in the tangled forested slopes where we watched served as a useful clue to the location of a display log. Our observations agree in the main with Prum & Johnson’s, but they do not mention a feature of this display which was very noticeable at the three logs where we saw it. The flight approach to the log was invariably from down hill, and it seemed a prerequisite of a suitable log that there should be a clear approach through the undergrowth from this direction. As already mentioned, the logs were aligned down the slope. Also Prum & Johnson do not mention that the jump on landing is a jump back in the direction of the approach flight, that is, ajump down the slope of the log. Their drawing (Fig. 2a) shows the bird jumping along the log in the same direction as the approach flight. Often, a male performed a succession of log-approaches one after the other, usually flying from the log out to the side, then moving round to a perch on the down-hill side from which to make the next approach-flight. Though on the down-hill side, these perches were well above the level of the log, once an estimated 19 m above the log. Log-displays. The displays which we saw performed on the log were what Prum & Johnson called the ‘chin-down display’ and ‘side-to-side bowing’. Both are silent. The chin-down display is a motionless posture— the head lowered, with chin almost touching the log, tail up at an angle near the vertical, and plumage sleeked—held by the male immediately after the landing and jump-back in which the log-approach display culmi- nates; it could perhaps be regarded as the final phase of that display. We saw it only at this point in the display sequence; it was regularly but not always performed, and lasted for only up to 2 seconds. It was evidently a more conspicuous feature of the displays seen by Prum & Johnson, as they saw it maintained for up to 20 seconds and say that it was ‘“‘most often performed immediately following log approaches’’, so presumably also at other times. Side-to-side bowing was the main display that we saw performed on the log. It was performed both in the presence of a female and when the male was alone on the log. Facing down hill, the male bows first to one side, over the edge of the log, then to the other side. On a narrow log he may simply swivel round between bows to alternate sides; on a wide log he takes small steps across the log to get in position for the bow to the other side. The body plumage is fluffed out and the back appears humped; the black ‘horns’ are erected; the orange hind-crest may stick up clear of the D.W. Snow & B. K. Snow 268 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) nape but is not very conspicuous; the yellow on the wings is not visible. Thus the main impression, seen from the side, is an emphasis of the black plumage. From the front, the yellow fore-crest must be conspicuous. Ifa female is present she perches on the down-hill side of the male, close to him (c. 7-15 cm) and facing him. In one long sequence of side-to-side bowing, in the presence of a female and preceding mating, a total of 34 bows were made alternately from side to side. In another long sequence by a different male, which also preceded mating, the male began by making 3—4 bows to each side of the log, before going to the other side (taking a few steps across, the log being wide); then the bowing became more rapid and switched to single bows to each side. About 40 rapid alternating bows (c. 20 to each side) were performed before the sequence of actions leading to mating, described below. Prum & Johnson’s account of side-to-side bowing differs in some details. In particular, they describe the male as sometimes facing one side of the log and bowing alternately towards either end. We never saw this. Mating. We saw mating on two occasions. At 13.05 hours on 30 July, a female came to a log on which a male had been actively displaying. She turned around several times, flew to a perch near by, then returned to the log, landing on the small area cleared of moss. The male arrived soon after, silently. He then performed a long bout of side-to-side bowing (described above) very close to the female, who was on his down-hill side facing him. He then flew off, and after c. 5 seconds returned from the usual down-hill direction, flew over the female and landed with a pk-k on her up-hill side, jumped back over her head to land on her down-hill side with a ker (the usual log-approach display), then mounted. After mating, the female remained where she was; the male, having dismounted on the up-hill side, again began side-to-side bowing, with single bows to each side; then flew off and returned in identical fashion and mounted again. After mating, which lasted 2—3 seconds, the female remained for about 10 seconds, then flew off. The male stayed a bit longer, slightly hump- backed (side-to-side bowing posture), then flew off and began calling. On the other occasion, on 26 July, the sequence was essentially the same, except that in the course of the male’s side-to-side bowing, which lasted about 2 minutes, the female made 10 flutters over the male and immediately back again. When on the down-hill side of the male, she crouched low and sometimes moved her head slightly from side to side. After the 10th flutter over the male and back, he flew off, out to the side, and then flew in from the down-hill end in the log-approach display and mated on landing. The female was crouching across the log at the place where it was barest of moss. After mating, the male did more side-to-side bowing, then again flew off and round and back again, but when he landed with the pk-k-ker the female had left. A third sequence, seen on 29 July, involved the adult male who had mated on the 26th and a female-plumaged bird who was probably an immature male. After a long bout of side-to-side bowing (34 bows), during which the female-plumaged bird twice fluttered over the male and back, the male flew off; but when he returned and landed with the pk-k-ker the female-plumaged bird had moved slightly up the log. While D. W. Snow & B. K. Snow 269 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) the male was in the chin-down posture, on the down-hill side, the female- plumaged bird briefly mounted him. Both birds then left. With no knowl- edge of the sex and status of the female-plumaged bird, this incident cannot be interpreted. Other displays. Allowing for the fact that rapidly executed movements seen under difficult conditions and sometimes partially hidden by screen- ing vegetation are often not clearly seen and, especially when first seen, are easily misinterpreted, we saw no displays that were definitely different from those described above. We did not see the display which Prum & Johnson call ‘stamping’. For completeness we quote their description: ‘““On several occasions males that were perched on display logs stamped their feet very rapidly for <1 sec, moving 2 or 3 cm ahead along the log. Although this display was infrequent and extremely short in duration, it appeared to have the stylized and nonfunctional qualities of a ritualized display behavior and was always performed while perched on the log in between bouts of side-to-side bowing.”’ Discussion In the preceding sections we have mentioned a number of mainly minor discrepancies between our two accounts, involving details of display behaviour. At this stage in the study of a little known manakin it seems worthwhile highlighting such discrepancies, as experience shows that although manakin display repertoires are highly stereotyped, a long period of field study is needed before a full and accurate account can be given of the displays of any species. Difficult conditions of observation, and confusion in interpreting incompletely developed displays given in different contexts, combined with the rapidity of many of the movements, are the chief problems encountered. In addition to these minor discrepancies, a major difference between what we saw and what Prum & Johnson recorded concerns the social organization of the males. As already mentioned, all our males seemed to be in undisputed possession of a territory; we saw no interactions between them. Visitors to the display logs were all in female plumage and, from the evidence of their behaviour, were females (or, in one case, probably an immature male). Prum & Johnson, however, frequently saw pairs of males displaying simultaneously on a log, either two visiting males while the owner was absent or, more often, the resident male and a visiting imma- ture male. On a number of occasions the two males performed perfectly coordinated alternating log-approach displays, and synchronized or coordinated side-to-side bowing displays. Without further study it is impossible to explain this undoubted and striking difference in the behaviour of males at the two study sites, only about 80 km apart and linked by suitable forest habitat and so unlikely to have populations that are genetically very different. It seems most likely that, since Prum & Johnson did not see mating in spite of watching for much longer than we did, their observations (from 27 June to 28 July) may have been made a little before the main breeding season began (although a female mist-netted on 28 July had a well developed brood JF. D. Summers-Smith 270 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) patch), while ours were apparently made at the height of breeding. Very likely seasons vary somewhat not only from place to place but from year to year. Hence the frequent interactions between males at the display-logs at Prum & Johnson’s study site may have been related to the establishment of dominance at what are probably traditional display-logs. If this was the case, it is of interest that the coordinated displays which develop between males in the pre-breeding period seem to parallel closely the coordinated displays between males in species of manakins in which such displays are a regular feature throughout the breeding season, e.g. members of the Pipra aureola species-group (Schwartz & Snow 1978, Robbins 1986). Based on our observations alone, we would have had no hesitation in including Masius among the manakins in which males maintain indi- vidual spatially separated display territories in dispersed leks, such as the Pipra serena species-group, Pipra pipra and Ilicura militaris. Prum & Johnson, from their experience, conclude that the mating system of Masius is most like that of the Pipra aureola species-group. Clearly, further observations are needed. Acknowledgements Weare very grateful to Christian Samper K., Guillermo Cantillo F., and the staff of the La Planada research station for helping us in all sorts of ways and making our visit, to one of the richest areas of neotropical forest, so enjoyable; and we also thank the Fundacion para la Educacion Superior, Cali, for authorizing our visit. References: Prum, R. O. & Johnson, A. E. 1987. Display behavior, foraging ecology, and systematics of the Golden-winged Manakin (Masius chrysopterus). Willson Bull. 99: 521-539. Robbins, M. B. 1986. Social organization of the Band-tailed Manakin (Pipra fasciicauda). Condor 87: 449-456. Schwartz, P. & Snow, D. W. 1978. Displays of the Wire-tailed Manakin. Living Bird 17: 51-78. Address: D. W. Snow and B. K. Snow, The Old Forge, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 4PD, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 The Tree Sparrow Passer montanus in Sardinia by #. D. Summers-Smith Received 13 March 1992 The first breeding record for the Tree Sparrow in Sardinia was of two pairs nesting in the tower of the fortress of Cagliari in 1898 (Bonomi 1899). Before that it had been known only as a winter visitor, for example an adult male at Decimomannu (17km north-west of Cagliari) on 20.10.1896 (Giglioli 1907). There have been regular reports of breeding in Cagliari since the first record: breeding 1905 (Giglioli 1907), 1906 (Martorelli 1906), 1921-22 numerous breeder in Cagliari and its F. D. Summers-Smith Dil Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) surroundings (Moltoni 1923), 1955-57 (Moltoni 1964), 1961-62 (Kunkel 1963), 1979 (Summers-Smith 1979). It had spread to nearby Poetto and Capo S. Elia by 1956 (Moltoni 1964). By 1961-62 it was reported at Mesau southwest along the coast and inland to Siliqua (Walter 1965) and I saw them at Teulada and Porto Teulada in 1989. In contrast, neither Steinbacher (1952, 1953, 1956) found any in Cagliari in 1952 and 1954, nor Corti (1958) in 1958; furthermore, Bezzel (1957) did not record any in 1956 in the Campidano Valley running northwest from the city. Despite these negative results, the regular reports make it most likely that the species has been present in Cagliari since the end of the last century. Moltoni (1923) stated specifically that in 1922 Tree Sparrows were present nowhere else on the island. Since then, however, four other centres of colonization have been established. On the west coast it was first recorded from Arborea in the 1940s (Walter & Demartis (1972), followed by Riola Sardo in 1955 and 1956, Oristano in 1956 (Bezzel 1957) and inland at Macomer in 1960 (Westermann 1961). Although Westermann (1961) could report only 1 from S. Giusta on 8.4.60, it appears that by 1961-62 Tree Sparrows were already well estab- lished in the fertile reclaimed land near Arborea and the coastal plain surrounding Oristano (Walter 1965). Tree Sparrows were first reported from Isola di S. Antioco in 1956, though presumably they had been there for some time as at this time they were present not only in S. Antioco and Calasetta, but also in Carloforte on Isola de S. Pietro (Moltoni 1964). In 1989 I found them numerous in the coastal plain from S. Giovanni Suergiu north to Carbonia and Iglesias, but not further to the northin S. Angelo and Arbus. A third colonization has taken place in the low-lying country between Alghero and Porto Torres in the northwest. The first record was of a single bird from Fertilia in the 1940s (Walter & Demartis 1972). This was followed by a report for Porto Torres in 1961 (Kunkel 1963) and breeding records for Sassari, Alghero and probably Fertilia in 1964 (Moltoni 1964). In 1989 I found it commonly in the valley from Alghero to Porto Torres and as far west as Tramariglio, but not in the higher lying towns of Ittiri, Villanova Monteleone and Pozzomaggiore. The final area of occupation is on the east coast, where it was first reported from Tortoli in 1957, followed by Lanusei in 1959 (Moltoni 1964). I found it in the former in 1979 and, in addition, also in Arbatax, Villagrande Strisaili, Villanova Strisaili, Girasole and north along the coast to Capo Comiso and Olbia, but not inland in Dorgali, though I found it there in 1989. I have attempted to reconstruct the history of the colonization in Figure 1, which gives the situation in 1959, 1969, 1979 and 1989 respectively. In this reconstruction I have discounted the isolated records for Macomer in 1960 (Westermann 1961) and Isola Caprera off the northeast coast (Walter 1965) that have not been repeated. Because of the lack of systematic observations some of the spread may have taken place earlier than suggested in the maps. However, the presence of birds in Bosa Marina and Dorgali in 1989, in both of which I failed to find any in 1979, suggests that colonization of the island is still taking place. The former of these may be J. D. Summers-Smith 272 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) (a) 1959 204 (b) 1969 a Og —18 Figure 1. Distribution of Tree Sparrow in Sardinia: @, occurrences; O, looked for but not found. Localities (sequence of numbering follows order of reference in text): 1, Cagliari. 2, Poetto. 3, Arborea. 4, Riola Sardo. 5, Oristano. 6, S. Antioco. 7, Calesetta. 8, Carloforte. 9, Fertilia. 10, Tortoli. 11, Lanusei. 12, Mesau. 13, Siliqua. 14, Porto Torres. 15, Sassari. 16, Alghero. 17, Macomer. 18, Isola Caprera. 19, Arbatax. 20, Villagrande Strisaili. 21, Villanova Strisaili. 22, Girasole. 23, Capo Comiso. 24, Olbia. 25, Dorgali. 26, Bosa Marina. 27, Teulada. 28, Porto Teulada. 29, S. Giovanni Suergiu. 30, Carbonia. 31, Iglesias. 32, S. Angelo. 33, Arbus. 34, Tramariglio. 35, Ittiri. 36, Villanova Monteleone. 37, Pozzemaggiore. 38, Orosei. 39, Bosa. 40, Suni. 41, S. Giovanni. F. D. Summers-Smith 273 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) the start of a new centre of colonization as in 1989 I could find them only in Bosa Marina, not in nearby Bosa or Suni. As Walter (1965) has already pointed out, the Tree Sparrow favours the water-rich districts of the island, breeding below 200m, though wandering in the winter and occurring up to 700 m. Although Moltoni (1923) suggested that the Tree Sparrow was originally introduced to Sardinia, it seems to me equally probable that they could have arrived in Cagliari as involuntary passengers on board ship, possibly from Naples where it is a common bird in the town centre. There could have in fact been several such invasions and the spread from Cagliari could have been delayed until sufficient genetic variation had occurred in the founding population to give it the necessary vigour to initiate the expansion. This parallels the colonizations of Tree Sparrows from introductions to St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.A., in 1870, and Melbourne, Australia, in the 1860s and 1970s, in both of which they were in competition with the introduced House Sparrow Passer domesticus, and equally with the House Sparrow in South Africa, where long periods elapsed before there was any significant spread from the locus of introduction (Summers-Smith 1988). A spread of this sort seems most probable for the colonization of the Arborea-Oristano area, that is connected to Cagliari by the low-lying Campidano valley; but the other areas are separated by high ground and it seems equally possible that these colonizations resulted from migrants from the north, as seems to be the case for Corsica and Malta (Summers- Smith 1988). In this connection, it is perhaps significant that the islands of S. Antioco and S. Pietro were occupied before the adjoining mainland coast. The presence of Tree Sparrows in Bosa Marina, separated from the other populations by the high-lying hinterland, is consistent with a coastal arrival, particularly as in 1989 they appeared to be confined to the coast. This recalls the situation in S. Antioco, where they were first reported in 1956, but not on the mainland until 1989, with the closest approach from the east being Siliqua in 1961—62 (Walter 1965). Acknowledgement The author wishes to thank Mr John Turner for his skill in preparing the distribution maps. References: Bezzel, E. 1957. Beitrage zur Kenntnis der Vogelwelt Sardiniens. Anz. Orn. Ges. Bayern 4: 588-707. Bonomi, P. 1899. Avicula: 11. (In: Moltoni 1923.) Corti, U. A. 1958. Ergebnisse einer ornithologischen Studienfahrt durch Sardinien. Orn. Beob. 55: 173-187. Giglioli, E. H. 1907. Avifauna Italica: secundo resocento: 33. (In: Moltoni 1923.) Kunkel, P. 1963. Beitrag zur Avifauna Sardiniens. Vogelwelt 84: 137-145. Martorelli, G. 1906. Uccelli d'Italia. Milano. (In: Moltoni 1923.) Moltoni, E. 1923. Su Alcuni uccelli delle Sardigna. Atti Soc. Ital. Sci. Nat. 62: 121-128. Moltoni, E. 1964. La Passera mattugia (Passer montanus montanus L.) in Sardegno ha estaso la sua area di nidificazione? ed in Corsica? Riv. Ital. Orn. 34: 276-279. Steinbacher, J. 1952. Zur Verbreitung und Biologie der Vogel Sardiniens. Vogelwelt 73: 197-208. Steinbacher, J. 1953. Vogelleben und Vogelzug im Fruhling auf Sardinien. Vogelwelt 73: 197-208. In Brief 274 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) Steinbacher, J. 1956. Herbst-Vogelleben in Sardinien und Sizilien. Vogelwelt 77: 1-12. Summers-Smith, D. 1979. Passer species on Sardinia. J/-Merill (20): 18-19, 45. Summers-Smith, J. D. 1988. The Sparrows. T. & A. D. Poyser, Calton. Walter, H. 1965. Ergebnisse ornithologische Beobachtungen auf Sardinien im Winter 1961-62. F. Orn. 106: 81-105. Walter, H. & Demartis, A. M. 1972. Brutdichte und 6kologische Nische sardischer Stadtvogel. 7. Orn. 113: 391-406. Westermann, K. 1961. Ornithologische Beobachtungen in Sardinien. Anz. Orn. Ges. Bayern 6: 55—56. Address: Dr J. D. Summers-Smith, Merlewood, The Avenue, Guisborough, Cleveland TS14 8EE, U.K. © British Ornithologists’ Club 1992 IN BRIEF THE NEST AND EGGS OF ESTRILDA CAERULESCENS According to Serle & Morel (1977), the nest and eggs of free-living Lavender Firefinch Estrilda caerulescens are undescribed; they have, however, been bred in captivity (Goodwin 1982). In the course of regular ornithological field work at the ORSTOM Station site at M’ Bour, Senegal (14°23’ N, 16°57’ W), this species, which is very common, was found breeding at the end of August, in the middle of the rainy season. A nest with fresh eggs was found on 10 August 1986. ‘The nest was in an area of small clearings in which herbaceous vegetation predominated, edged with native shrubs (Mimoseae, Capparidaceae). The woody vegetation, which had been seriously affected by the droughts of 1972-73, included numerous dead and fallen trees, favouring the growth of hanas (Antigonum leptopus, Momordica balsamina, Ipomaea sp.). The site was also crossed by narrow tracks, favourable to the development of tall bordering weeds on whose seeds the Lavender Firefinch feeds. The nest, 3 m above ground ona partially dead tree (Cassia siamea), was placed between three forked twigs of a terminal whorl. It was abundantly covered with, and well hidden by, the liana Momordica balsamina. The nest was domed and had at the top a very long (15 cm) and narrow (1.5 cm diameter) entrance tunnel. The nest chamber was some 12 cm deep and 8 cm wide.The total volume of the nest was estimated at 3 dm’, which is astonishing for the size of the bird (wing-length 52 mm, weight 8 g). The outer part of the nest was rather roughly made, but the interior was well padded. It was mainly composed of a graminaceous plant (Bracharia distichophylla), and still green at the time of its discovery, with some Momordica leaves around the nest chamber. No feathers or any other material was found inside the nest. The eggs, 3 in number, were ovoid, uniformly cream-coloured with a slight pink tinge. When found they were translucent, indicating that they were newly laid. They measured 14.7 x 10.9, 15.0x 10.1 and 15.9 x 11.4 mm and each weighed c. 0.9 g. If the clutch was complete, it was similar to that of related species in Africa, but on the low side for a savanna species (Lagonosticta senegala average 3.5; most savanna estrildines average 4.3, forest estrildines 3.7; Morel 1969). In Brief 275° Bull. B.O.C.1992 112(4) In this relatively open environment, conditions seem ideal for this savanna species, as food resources, both seeds and insects, are abundant during the rainy season. Lavender Firefinches can often be seen foraging with other estrildines (L. senegala, Estrilda bengala). We can regard these species as forming a guild, in Blondel’s sense of ‘“‘un groupe d’espeéces affines qui fréquentent et se partagent, selon des modalités parfois tres subtiles, un type de ressources du milieu’’. Weshould stress that we found nesting Lavender Firefinches extremely shy and secretive, which probably accounts for the fact that their nest has hitherto remained unknown. References: Blondel, J. 1979. Biogéographie et Ecologie. Ed. Masson. Goodwin, D. 1982. Estrildid Finches of the World. British Museum (Nat. Hist.) & Oxford Univ. Press. Morel, M. Y. 1969. Contribution a l’étude dynamique de la population de Lagonosticta senegala(Estrildidés) a Richard Toll (Sénégal). Interrelations avec le parasite Hypochera chalybeata (Miller), (Viduines). Thése de doctorat d’état, Univ. de Rennes. Serle, W. & Morel, G. J. 1977. A Field Guide to the birds of West Africa. Collins. ORSTOM-Mileux et activite agricole, F. BAILLON 213 rue La Fayette, 75480 Paris Cedex 10, France. 22 January 1992 ON THE NAME “FRIENDLY GROUND-DOVE” The common name of Gallicolumba stairi has long been ‘‘Friendly Ground-Dove’”’ (most recently Watling 1982, Birds of Fiji, Tonga and Samoa; Sibley & Monroe 1990, Distribution and Taxonomy of Birds of the World; Clements 1991, Birds of the World: A Check List) or its variant “Friendly Quail Dove” (Howard & Moore 1991, A Complete Checklist of the Birds of the World). However, some authors have objected to applying the term “‘Friendly”’ to this very shy species. Watling (loc. cit.) wrote “The Friendly Ground-Dove has a most inappropriate common name, since far from being friendly it is a timid, wary bird, the usual sighting being a brief glimpse of a brown bird flying swiftly away’. Clunie (1984, Birds of the Fuji Bush) instead used ‘‘West Polynesian Ground-Dove’’. Pratt et al. (1987, A Field Guide to the Birds of Hawai and the Tropical Pacific) coined “‘Shy Ground-Dove’’, and commented: ‘“‘Other name: Friendly Ground-Dove. This ridiculous and misleading name is well entrenched in the literature, but virtually every author has felt the need to remark about its inappropriateness. Perhaps the name originated as a bad joke. We suggest the above alternative [Shy Ground-Dove] so that future authors will not have to explain that the name is a lie.”’ The name “‘Friendly Ground-Dove’’ was neither a bad joke nor a lie. When it was coined, it was a simple and honest choice. Many birds of the Pacific islands are named after the archipelagoes they inhabit, especially if In Brief 276 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) no congeners are sympatric. Just in Gallicolumba, Pratt et al. listed as primary or alternate names: the Caroline Islands, the Polynesian, the Society Islands, the Tuamotu, the Marquesas, and the Palau ground- doves. Completing this list of geographically-named Pacific ground- doves is Friendly Ground-Dove. In years past, the archipelago now universally known as Tonga was called by English-speaking peoples “The Friendly Islands’’ (Stevenson 1988, Webster’s New Geographical Dictionary). Gallicolumba stairi is the only ground-dove inhabiting ““The Friendly Islands’’, and the type specimen is believed to have come from Tonga (Peters 1937, Check-list of Birds of the World, Vol. 3). Clearly, “Friendly Ground-Dove’’ referred to this species’ home islands, not to its unfriendly behaviour. This name only became confusing when people forgot the name ‘‘Friendly Islands’’. If the long name ‘‘Friendly Islands Ground-Dove”’ had not been abbreviated for common usage there would have been no confusion. Because this dove also inhabits Fiji and Samoa, Clunie’s name ‘‘West Polynesian Ground-Dove’’ is geographically preferable, but this could be confused with the ‘‘Polynesian Ground-Dove”’ Gallicolumbaerythroptera. As Pratt et al. (1987) is the standard field guide for Tropical Pacific birds, I support their simple and descriptive name ‘“‘Shy Ground-Dove’’, because ‘Friendly Ground-Dove”’ has become universally misunderstood. Department of Ornithology & Mammalogy, DR STEPHEN F. BAILEY California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA 94118, U.S.A. 16 February 1992 RANGE EXTENSIONS OF ORANGE-CHEEKED PARROT AND WHITE-BROWED PURPLETUFT IN AMAZONIAN VENEZUELA ‘The Orange-cheeked Parrot Pionopsitta barrabandi is known to occur in west-central South America east of the Andes from southeastern Columbia and southern Venezuela through eastern Ecuador and eastern Peru to northern Bolivia and eastward to central Amazonian Brazil. In Venezuela it is recorded from the southern part of Amazonas province and the south-central part of Bolivar province. Its hitherto known north- ern limit in southern Amazonas is the junction of the Rio Guaviare and Orinoco (Meyer de Schauensee & Phelps 1978, Birds of Venezuela). It is thus widely distributed but is regarded as rare or uncommon to locally common (Forshaw 1973, Parrots of the World; Hilty & Brown 1986, Birds of Colombia; Meyer de Schauensee & Phelps, loc. cit). Its preferred habitat is humid evergreen forest to 500 m. In the rainy season, on 23 and 25 July 1991, I observed a flock of 5 Orange-cheeked Parrots in an area about 5 km west of the Piaroa Indian village of Gavilan in the northwestern Amazonian territory of Venezuela. ‘They were resting during the hot midday ina high canopy tree close to the In Brief 277 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) forest edge. This observation extends the range of Pionopsitta barrabandi 160 km to the north. The White-browed Purpletuft Jodopleura isabellae is distributed in west-central South America east of the Andes. Hitherto, in Venezuela, it has been recorded in southern Amazonas north to the junction of the Rio Guaviare and Orinoco (Meyer de Schauensee & Phelps, loc. cit.; Snow 1982, The Cotingas). Although widely distributed, it is considered uncommon (Hilty & Brown, loc. cit.). Its preferred habitat is humid evergreen forest to 500 m. On 23 July 1991 I observed two individuals of the White-browed Purpletuft in the area mentioned above. They were perching in the top of a vine-entangled tree about 20m high at the forest edge. From time to time they sallied out to capture insects, and several times disappeared behind vine leaves probably in search of fruits. This observation extends the range of Jodopleura isabellae 160 km to the north. Virtually unbroken rainforest extends from the junction of the rivers Guaviare, Orinoco and Atabapo north to Gavilan. These range exten- sions are therefore not unexpected; few ornithologists visit Amazonian Venezuela, and especially not during the rainy season. The area has been closed to ordinary tourism until recent years and access is very difficult without aeroplane and boat. I thank Dr Jon Fjeldsa for valuable comments on a draft of this paper. Zoological Museum, BENT OTTO POULSEN University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen ©. Denmark. 23 January 1992 THE NEST OF THE LARGE-BILLED ANTWREN HERPSILOCHMUS LONGIROSTRIS Very little is known of the biology of the Large-billed Antwren Herpsilochmus longirostris, an endemic antbird of eastern and central Brazil, spottily recorded from Piaui, Tocantins and Mato Grosso south to Mato Grosso do Sul, Sao Paulo and Parana. Recent observations have shown that it inhabits the middle and lower strata of both humid and semideciduous forests, palm groves (buritizais) and gallery forests of central Brazil, and also secondary habitats. Like other members of the genus, H. longirostris often joins mixed flocks composed of such species as Picumnus albosquamatus, Veniliornis passerinus, Sittasomus griseicapillus, Lepidocolaptes angustirostris, Taraba major, Myiarchus swainsoni, Todirostrum cinereum, Idioptilon striaticolle, Myiopagis caniceps, Camptostoma obsoletum, Polioptila dumicola, Cyclarhis gujanensis, Conirostrum speciosum and Coereba flaveola, as we observed at Santa In brief 278 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) aq ws <= \an inet i ua a] bY RNR A NAL SES irs ' eA 2 A SA. 4, ANS Ris ghd) Ya? ° v Figure 1. Nest of the Large-billed Antwren Herpsilochmus longirostris, lateral view. Isabel do Morro (c. 11°34'S, 50°40'W), Bananal Island, Tocantins, in July 1981. Like other antbirds, the Large-billed Antwren occasionally follows army ants, and also scans the surface of leaves and branches looking for small insects such as Orthoptera and geometrid caterpillars. Its call seemed to us very similar to that of Herpsilochmus rufimarginatus and H. pectoralis: a rhythmic sequence of descending notes, resembling the typical calls of several antshrikes Thamnophilus spp. Virtually nothing is known of the breeding biology of Herpsilochmus asa whole (Sick 1985, Ornitologia brasileira: uma introdugdao), and the Large- billed Antwren is no exception. On 10 October 1989, we discovered its nest in a secondary forest of Ilha Grande, Parana river, municipality of Altonia, Parana (c. 24°03’S, 54°12’W). The nest, now housed in the Museu Macional, is a small cup of vegetable material, 60 mm in total length, 50 mm in width and 80 mm in height, with an egg chamber 60 mm deep (Fig. 1). Both parents attended the nest, which was placed 1.5m above the ground, concealed among the branches of a lauraceous tree (Ocotea suaveolens), and was composed of several leaves (especially of the bamboo Guadua spinosissimum), spadices of an unidentified grass, filaments of the fungus Marasmius, kapok and radicels. In general shape it is similar to the nests of several other antbirds such as Thamnophilus, Dysithamnus, some species of Myrmotherula etc. Judging from the gonads of a small series collected in southern Mato Grosso and western Parana, H. longirostris breeds during the spring (September—December), at the beginning of the rainy season. Books Received 279 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) We would like to thank the Brazilian Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPq), Conservation International, and the Instituto Florestal do Parana, which partially supported our researches on Brazilian birds. Museu de Historia Natural Capao da Imbuia, FERNANDO C. STRAUBE Rua Benedito Concei¢ao, MARCOS R. BORNSCHEIN Curitiba (PR), Brazil CEP 82800. Secao de Ornitologia, Museu Nacional, DANTE MARTINS TEIXEIRA Quinta da Boa Vista, Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Brazil CEP 20942. 22 April 1992 BOOKS RECEIVED ICBP 1992. Putting Biodiversity on the Map: priority areas for global conservation. Pp. vi+ 90, 36 figures, photographs. International Council for Bird Preservation, 32 Cambridge Road, Girton, Cambridge CB30PJ. ISBN 0 946888 24 8. £12.50. 30 x 21 cm. This is an important publication, and especially interesting to ornithologists as the priority areas are based primarily on birds, whose distribution is better known than that of any other major animal group. It aims to identify and map all important centres of endemism, based on the known distribution of all bird species with breeding ranges of less than 50,000km?*. The ranges of these species of limited distribution fall into a number of natural groupings: 221 such groupings (Endemic Bird Areas) have been identified, and they embrace 2484 species, the vast majority (95%) of all species with restricted ranges and a sizeable fraction of the world’s birds. Obviously, a large majority of the species with wider ranges also occur in the Endemic Bird Areas, which are thus of prime importance for bird conservation as a whole. (The north temperate regions are the only exception, as the northernmost Endemic Bird Area is the Caucasus; also seabirds do not easily fit into the pattern.) But these centres of bird endemism have an even wider importance, as a review of the literature on other groups shows that there is a high degree of congruence between Endemic Bird Areas and the main areas of endemism of other animals and plants. This book, soft-covered, on glossy paper, with coloured figures (mainly maps) and photographs, and detailed Appendices, has been produced in a style which should not only satisfy the professional biologist and experienced naturalist but also attract and hold the attention of policy-makers. One must hope that it has the impact that it deserves. To quote from Foreword by E. O. Wilson of Harvard, one of the world’s leading biologists: ‘To staunch this haemorrhaging [of the world’s living diversity], to serve ourselves and generations further into the future than it is possible to imagine, we must somehow deflect the hammer blows [of man’s unrelenting impact on the environment]. But they must fall somewhere, due to population growth and industrialization. From which points then on earth should we deflect them? A first relatively detailed answer is the brilliant achievement of the ICBP Biodiversity Project.” Jonsson, L. 1992. Birds of Europe with North Africa and the Middle East. Pp. 559, numerous colour illustrations and maps. Christopher Helm—A. & C. Black. ISBN 0 7136 8096 2. £25.00. 21 x 14cm. Among the almost bewildering succession of European field-guides this one, not only illustrated but also written by an outstanding bird artist, is something new. In the first place its geographical scope is unique for a single-volume field-guide, covering as it does North Africa north of the Sahara and the Middle East—approximately, in fact, the same Books Received 280 Bull. B.O.C. 1992 112(4) as that of Birds of the Western Palearctic. For vagrants, species recorded in Europe more than five times this century up to 1989 are included (a few not illustrated), and some with fewer records are included for special reasons, e.g. because of possible confusion with commoner species, or because they have attracted special interest. The text is in usual field-guide form, concentrating mainly on identification, with particularly good descriptions of voice, much fuller than in most other field-guides, and brief but useful notes on status and habitat. A 26- page, beautifully illustrated introduction deals briefly with general topics such as plumages and their terminology, behaviour, migration and systematics. The distribution maps, though small, are excellent and up to date, being based on the latest available data from regional and national atlases, surveys etc. They are in three colours, indicating breeding only, present all year, and wintering only. No attempt has been made to show areas of occurrence on passage. Not surprisingly, the maps are in the main miniature versions of those in BWP, with some modifications. The illustrations are partly based on those in a series of five books in Swedish, Faglar i Naturen, published in 1976-80, with many additions. This has produced a certain lack of uniformity. Some are of more or less standard field-guide type, but with greater variety in the postures in which the birds are shown and with fewer species on the page, in many cases only one or two. Others are of a less formal, more old-fashioned kind, with a carefully painted landscape background, e.g. Chough and Alpine Chough, with three birds perched on rocks against a mountain background and three flying birds above. There are many smaller coloured illustrations at the tops of the text pages, showing birds in flight, points relevant to identification etc. In general, there is an informality and freedom of treatment in the illustrations not found in conventional field-guides, and (despite some that seem less successful than the rest, especially among the passerines) many will find the book a pleasure to possess for its marvellous illustrations quite apart from its other considerable merits. NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS Papers, from Club Members or non-members, should be sent to the Editor, Dr D. W. Snow, The Old Forge, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks HP22 4PD, U.K., and must be offered solely to the Bulletin. They should be typed on one side of the paper, with treble-spacing and a wide margin, and submitted in duplicate. The style and lay-out should conform with usage in this or recent issues of the Bulletin. Informants of unpublished observations should be cited by initials and name only, e.g. ‘“‘... of grass (C. Dieter)’’, but ““P. Wee informs me that ...’’. A limited number of photographic illustrations in black-and-white may be published annu- ally at the Editor’s discretion. Authors are requested to give their title, initials, name and full address at the end of the paper. An author wishing to introduce a new name or describe a new form should append nom., gen., sp. or subsp. nov., as appropriate, and set out the sup- porting evidence under the headings “‘Description’’, ‘““Distribution’’, ““Type’’, ““Measurements of type’’ and ‘“‘Material examined’’, plus any others needed. 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Long runs (at least 10 years) for Vol. 50 and after are available at reduced rates on enquiry. Postage & Packing extra except orders over £50 post free. MEMBERSHIP Only Members of the British Ornithologists’ Union are eligible to join the Club; applications should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer, as below, together with the annual subscription (£8.50 or, if preferred, U.S. $22 for 1992, postage and index free). Changes of address and any correspondence concerning membership should be addressed to the Hon. Treasurer. SUBSCRIPTION TO THE BULLETIN The Bulletin (Vol. 112 onwards) may be purchased by non-members on pay- ment of the annual subscription (£18 or, if preferred, U.S. $40 for 1992, postage and index free). Applications should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer. Single issues may be obtained as back numbers. PAYMENTS TO HON. TREASURER Payments should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer, S. J. Farnsworth, Hammerkop, Frogmill, Hurley, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 5NL, U.K., or credited direct to the Club’s bank account—No. 10211540, Sort Code 200087, at Barclays Prime Account, P.O. Box 125, Northampton NN1 1SO, U.K., with confirmation to the Hon. Treasurer. All payments are net and should be in Sterling if possible. Payment in other currencies must include a further £3 for U.K. Bank Charges (except for annual rates in U.S. Dollars which are inclusive). CORRESPONDENCE Correspondence about Club Meetings and on all other matters should go to the Hon. Secretary, Mrs A. M. Moore, 1 Uppingham Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6JB, U.K. CONTENTS Page CUUBENOMICES) | \Vileetingsis 4.76 ae Ses. dua ge bo ee 209 DOWSETT-LEMAIRE, F. On the vocal behaviour and habitat of the Maned Owl Jubula lettii in south-western Congo ........... 2N3 CLANCEY, P. A. ‘Taxonomic comment on southeastern representa- tives of two wide-ranging African cisticolas ................ 218 ROSELAAR, C.S. A new species of mountain finch Leucosticte from western Pibet ) fos. oes e 6. os eee ek oo alee er 225 STOTZ, D.F. Anew subspecies of Aramides cajanea from Brazil ... 231 HOWELL, S. N. G., DOWELL, B. A., JAMES, D. A., BEHRSTOCK, R. A. & ROBBINS, c.s. New and noteworthy bird records from Belize......... 235 ASH, J. S. Departure behaviour of night migrants in the eastern ahaa cecis csia ecw wee Mies og lakeleie apehe rede ness nn aa 244 ASH, J. S. Northern White-tailed Bush Lark Mirafra albicauda, Singing Bush Lark M. cantillans and Friedmann’s Bush Lark Mpulpa in Ethiopia. 22 6) 65 One) os oe ee 247 HAFFER, J. Parapatric species of birds.......:....:..-.5..09808 250 SNOW, D. W. & SNOW, B.K. Display of the Golden-winged Manakin Masius chrysopterus.. 2 000 Nee ee ee eae ea eee 264 SUMMERS-SMITH, J. D. The Tree Sparrow Passer montanus in Sardinia \:cayos 22 5968 2. SEO See ek ee 270 In Brief BAILLON,F. The nest and eggs of Estrilda caerulescens .. 274 BAILEY, S.F. Onthe name “Friendly Ground-dove” ... 275 POULSEN, B. O. Range extensions of Orange-cheeked Parrot and White-browed Purpletuft in Amazonian Menezuelai 6. ae aa ee 276 STRAUBE, F. C., BORNSCHEIN, M. R. & TEIXEIRA, D. M. ‘The nest of the Large-billed Antwren Herpsilochmus LONGITOSENIS Os Be ee ee ee 277 BOOKS‘ RECEIVED: 1... anes eo eee 279 The Bulletin is despatched from the printers on publication and is sent by Surface Saver Postal Services to all European destinations outside the U.K. and by Air Saver Postal Services to destinations outside Europe. Those whose subscriptions have not been received by the beginning of a month of publication will have their copies despatched by surface mail, after their current subscription has been paid. COMMITTEE R. E. F. Peal (Chairman) (1989) D. Griffin (Vice-Chairman) (1990) Dr D. W. Snow (Editor) (1991) S.J. Farnsworth ( Treasurer) (1990) Mrs A. M. Moore (Hon. Secretary) (1989) Revd T. W. Gladwin (1990) Cdr M. B. Casement, OBE, RN (1990) Dr J. F. Monk (1991) Dr R. A. Cheke (1991) UK Data Protection Act. In order to keep records up to date and to facilitate despatch of the Bulletin names and addresses of Members and Subscribers, and no other information, are held on computer disc. If there is any objection to this please advise the Hon. Secretary in writing so that records can be deleted from the disc and stored manually. Published by the B 85/23/96 198115 Henry Lingstas ag. 2 SER SELE 3 [| 'S’ CLUB and punted by sj)rchester, Dorset BULLETIN of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB EDITED BY Dr D.W. SNOW Volume 112 1992 il COMMITTEE Elected 19 May 1992 R. E. F. PEAL Chairman (1989) Dr D. W. SNOW Editor (1991) D. GRIFFIN Vice-Chairman (1990) S.J. FARNSWORTH Hon. Treasurer Mrs A. M. MOORE Hon. Secretary (1990) (1989) Cdr M. B. CASEMENT, oBg, RN, RETD. Reverend T. W. GLADWIN (1990) (1990) Dr R. A. CHEKE (1991) Dr J. F. MONK (1991) CHANGES IN MEMBERSHIP 1992 New Members Dr D. Ritchie (1991), Cdr. M. K. Barritt RN, S. Baumann, P. B. Clarke, M. Craig, Dr C. J. Gallner, S. J. Holloway, A. Huron, P. Kennerly, B. Little, Dr M. Louette, I. McNamee, A. H. McNeil, B. M. McPhelim, B. A. E. Marr, D. J. Montier, Kang Nee, Miss S. J. Oyler, J-C. Praz, M. Reutter, M. Rodrigues, P. G. W. Salaman, H. Smit, P. W. Smith, F. G. Stiles, H. M. V. Wilsdon. Re-elected Miss C. Talbot-Kelly. Deaths The Committee very much regrets to report the deaths of the following Members (see Report of the Committee for 1992): Mr R. A. Hughes (Member 1987-1991), Mr R. M. O’ Rourke (Member 1987-1992) and the Reverend Dr William Serle, O.B.E., (Member 1945-1992). Resignations in respect of 1992 J. K. Adams, J.S. M. Albrecht, R. C. H. Bonser, S.J. W. Coles, S. B. Cull, Dr N. J. Collar, R. J. Farmer, J. A. Franks, K. Futter, D. Goodwin, A. Greensmith, C. N. Hacking, Dr P. Harrison, P. R. A. Kelly, Mrs U. V. Mead, B. P. Nielson, Dr D. Parish, D. Payne, P. Riddett, P. Robinson, D. R. Short, Dr E. J. M. Veling, J. V. Weir, F. Willemys, D. R. Willett, Lt.-Col. T. C. White. Removed from membership under Rule (7) M. M. Al-Safadi, A. Best, M. A. Boyd, H. P. Q. Crick, A. S. Dowland, N. G. Gay, J. R. Jehl Jnr., J. V. Jenson, J. Lovell, M. de Reuter, F. G. Rozendaal, S. T. A. Turner, Y. Wang. BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB LIST OF MEMBERS paid up at 31 December 1992 1986 Apcock, M. A.; ‘“The Saltings’’, 53 Victoria Drive, Great Wakering, SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, Essex SS3 OAT 1983 AGUILLO Cano, I. F.; Apartado 129, 26200 Haro (La Rioja), Spain 1984 Alpb.ey, Dr D. J.; The Old Woolpack, Morley St. Botolph, wyMoNDHaAM, Norfolk NR18 9AA 1988 ALBERTI, P.; Via B Cellini 10, 21052 Busto arsizio, Italy 1979 Aber, J. R.; Burngate, Peckons Hill, Ludwell, Nr sHaFTESBURY, Dorset SP7 0AN 1980 ALLISON, R.; The Laurels, Manchester Road, Sway, LYMINGTON, Hants SO4 0AS 1989 ALLport, G.; The Homestead, The Green, Old Buckenham, Nr aPPLEBOROUGH, Norfolk NR17 1SF 1978 Auttman, Dr A. 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A., D.Sc.; Suite 19, Caistor Lodge, 264 Musgrave Road, Berea, DURBAN 4001, South Africa (Hon. Life Member) CrarincE, J. C. R.; 17 Moana Road, Plimmerton, via WELLINGTON, New Zealand CLarkE, Sqn. Ldr. M.C. A., RAF; Hilltop, Newton, Martley, worcESTER WR6 6PR CxarkE, P.B.; Pipers, East Hoathly Lewes, Sussex BN8 6QX CoLeMAN, B.; Little Place, Rogers Lane, sTOKE POGES, Bucks SL2 4LU Co.LemMan, J. R.; Hewelsfield, Snowdenham Links Road, BRAMLEY, Surrey GUS 0OBX 1987 1979 1976 1952 1986 1985 1981 1984 1991 1961 1979 1980 1975 1986 1984 1992 1973 1986 1981 1991 1986 1989 1978 1958 1946 1980 1988 1991 1988 1986 1986 1983 1986 1973 1985 1975 1990 1987 1986 1985 1970 1978 1984 1974 1965 1952 1957 1986 1962 1986 1986 1967 1985 1963 1973 1989 1985 1986 1986 1986 1988 1986 1988 1981 1979 1978 1976 1986 1943 1991 1991 1984 1985 1978 iv Co.tins, I. D.; Bryher, 10 Row Lane, Seend Cleeve, MELKSHAM SN12 6PR Co..ins, R. E. C.; Seatonden, Seaton, Ickham, CANTERBURY, Kent CT3 1SL Coxston, P. R.; Sub-Dept. of Ornithology, British Museum (Natural History), TRING, Herts HP23 6AP Conner, P. J., O.B.E.; Old Close Orchard, 12 Swaynes Lane, Comberton, CAMBRIDGE CB3 7EF (Committee 1982-1985) ContTENTO, G.; Via Desenibus 8, 34074 MONFALCONE, Italy Cook, Dr Marion; Scheibenbergstrasse 2015, A 1180, viENNA, Austria CoomseR, R. F.; Springfield, Bashley Road, NEW MILTON, Hants BH25 5RX Cornwa tis, Dr L.; Glyme Farm, Charlbury Road, CHIPPING NORTON, Oxon OX7 5XJ Costas, R.; Avda da Florida 95—7B, 36210 vico (Pontevedra), Spain CoTTRELL, C. W., Jnr; PO Box 1487, HILLsBorRO, NH 03244, USA Court-SmitH, Sq.Ldr D. St J.; 38 Sand Hill, FARNBOROUGH, Hants GU14 8EW Cowan, Dr P. J.; Gleann Cottage, Glenlomond, kiNrRoss, Tayside KY13 7HF Cow es, G. S.; Tetherstones, 23 Kirkdale Road, HARPENDEN, Herts AL5 2PT Cox, DrR. A. F.; Linden House, Long Lane, Fowlmere, Royston, Herts SG8 7TG Crappbock, B.; 44 Haling Road, Penkridge, sSTraFFORD ST19 SDA Craic, M.; PO Box 92, MOSMAN PaRK, W Australia, Australia THE Ear OF CRANBROOK, Ph.D.; Great Glemham House, Great Glemham, sAXMUNDHAM, Suffolk [P17 1LP CrILtey, T. L.; 73. Cleveland Road, NORTH SHIELDS, Tyne & Wear NE29 ONW Crocker, N. J.; Arlington, Douro Road, CHELTENHAM, Glos GL50 2PF Crockett, D. E.; 21 McMillan Avenue, Kano, NORTHLAND, New Zealand Crossy, M. J.; 21 Eastern Street, CAMBRIDGE CB1 3AB Cross, J. K.; 62 Hulbert Road, Bedhampton, HAVANT, Hants PO9 3TG Croucuer, R. A. N.; Uplands Lodge, Manor Road, SMETHWICK, W. Midlands B67 6SA (Committee 1980-1984) CupwoRrtH, J.; 17a Prospect Road, osseTT, Yorks WF5 8AE CUNNINGHAM VAN SOMMEREN, G. R.; PO Box 24947, Karen, NAIROBI, Kenya Curtis, W. F.; Farm Cottage, Church Lane, Atwick, DRIFFIELD, E. Yorks YO25 8DH Da Fonseca, P. S. M.; Rua Diamantina 20/201, 22461—050, rIo DE JANIERO RJ, Brazil DanikEL, A. R.; 21 Kingsbury Avenue, DUNSTABLE, Beds LUS 4PU DauLng, J-M.; Rue Laforge 11, 6997 MORMONT-EREZEE, Belgium Davipson, I. S.; 49 Benton Park Road, NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE NE7 7LX Davies, J.; 83 Rectory Lane, Leybourne, WEST MALLING, Kent ME19 5HD Davies, Dr M. G.; Summerleas, Crapstone Road, YELVERTON, Devon PL20 6BT Davis, C. J.; 4 Muller Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 0OAA Davison, Dr G. W. H.; WWF (Malaysia), Locked Bag No 911, Jalan Sultan PO 46990 PETALING Jaya, Malaysia Dean, A. R.; 2 Charingworth Road, SOLIHULL, W. Midlands B92 8HT Dean, W. J. R.; Karoo Biome Research, PO Box 47, PRINCE ALBERT 6930, South Africa Demarcul, Dr. P.; Via Grassi 19, 43044 Collecchio, PARMA, Italy Demey, R.; Grote Peperstraat 3, B-9100 sINT-NIKLAAS, Belgium Dennis, M. K.; 173 Collier Row Lane, ROMFORD, Essex RM5 3ED Denton, M. L.; 77 Hawthorne Terrace, Crosland Moor, HUDDERSFIELD, Yorks HD4 5RP DesrayYes, M.; Prevan, CH 1920 FuLLy, Switzerland DevILters, Dr P. J.; 11 Avenue de 1’Oiseau Bleu, B1150 BrussELs, Belgium Diamonp, Dr A. W.; 1033 University Drive, SaskKATOON, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 0K4 Dick, J. A., F.R.C.S.; 33 St Mary’s Road, LONDON SW19 7BP Dickinson, E. C.; Norman Chapel, Aston Magna, MORETON IN MARSH, Glos. GL56 9QN Dickinson, H. J.; Abinger Cottage, Paston, NORTH WALSHAM, Norfolk NR28 9TB DiILiincuaM, I. H.; The Low House, Lower Longwith, Collingham, WETHERBY, W. Yorks LS22 5BX Dossins,R.; 317 Gladbeck Way, ENFIELD, Middx EN2 7HR DowsetrT, R. J.; 12 rue des Lavandes, GANGES F-34190, France Duckett, J. E.; 94 Lorong Chong Khoon Lin 6, Ukay Heights, 68000 ampana, Selangor DE, Malaysia Earp, M. J.; 63 Ivinghoe Road, Bushey, WATFORD, Herts WD2 3SW Eppir, W. M. M.; 20 Gosford Place, EDINBURGH EH6 4BH EpeEN, R. M. G.; Haliki, Lower Beach Road, West Bexington, DORCHESTER, Dorset DT2 9DG E.coop, J. H.; Flat 16, The Anchorage, 157 Mudeford, CHRISTCHURCH BH23 4AG (Committee 1967-1970, 1986-90, Vice-Chairman 1971-1974, Chairman 1974-1977) Evkins, D. A.; Le Frugier, St Mesmin, 24270 LANOUAILLE, France EvPpuick, J. H.; 21 Wells Court, Queen Margaret’s Grove, LONDON N1 Extswortny, Dr G. C.; 14 Greenbank Avenue, Maghull, L1vERPooL L31 2JQ Ennis, L. H.; School Cottage, Plaistow, BILLINGSHURST, W. Sussex RH14 0PX ErRITZOE, J.; Taps GL Praestegaard, DK 6070 CHRISTIANSFELD, Denmark Evans, G. G.; 1 Coach House Mews, Upper Church Road, WESTON-SUPER-MARE, Avon BS23 2DY FANSHAWE, J. H.; c/o I.C.B.P., 32 Cambridge Road, Girton, CAMBRIDGE CB3 OPJ FaRNSwortH, S. J.; Hammerkop, Frogmill, Hurley, MAIDENHEAD, Berks SL6 5NL (Committee 1989-90, Hon. Treasurer 1990-) Feare, Dr C. J.; MAFF, Tangley Place, WoRPLESDON, Surrey GU3 3LQ FERGENBAUER- KIMMEL, Dr A.; Donrather Str. 2, D 5204 LoHMarRL, Germany FiELp, G. D.; 37 Milton Grove, NEW MILTON, Hants BH25 6HB FisHer, Dr C. T.; Section of Birds and Mammals, Liverpool Museum, William Brown Street, LIVERPOOL L3 8EN FIsHER, D. J.; 56 Western Way, sANDY, Beds SG19 1DU FisHPOOL, Dr L. D. C.; 12 Mountain St, Chilham, CANTERBURY, Kent CT4 8DQ Fitter, R. S. R.; Drifts, Chinnor Hill, oxrorp OX9 4BS (Committee 1959-1962, Vice-Chairman 1962-1965, Chairman 1965-1968) (Hon. Life Member) Fitzpatrick, Ms. S.; Dept of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster at Jordanstown, NEWTOWN ABBEY, Co Antrim BT37 0QB FLYNN, J. A.; 77 Braxted Park, LONDON SW16 3AU Fow er, Dr J. A.; Hafod Heli, High Street, BorTH, Dyfed SY24 5JE FRANKE, Ms I.; Museo de Historia Natural, Casilla 140434, Lima 14, Peru Fraser, M. W.; Sandbanks, Kenmuir Steps, Hopkirk Way, GLENCAIRN 7995, South Africa 1979 1965 1991 1981 1959 1992 1976 1988 1991 1974 1966 1986 Vv FRusHER, D. M.; The Barn House, Greatworth, BANBURY, Oxon OX17 2DT Fry, Prof. C. H., D.Sc.; Biology Dept., College of Science, Sultan Qaboos University, PO Box 32486, Al Khoudh, muscaT, Oman FuccLes-CoucHman, N. R.; Post House, Broughton, sTOcKBRIDGE, Hants SO20 8AA Ga ey, C. P.; 29 Ainsdale Drive, Werrington, PETERBOROUGH, Cambs PE4 6RL GALLAGHER, Major M. D.; c/o PO Box 668, MuscaT, Oman Gainer, Dr J. C.; 16 rue Pavillon, 13001 MaRSEILLE, France Gatswortny, A. C., CMG; c/o FCO (Hong Kong), King Charles Street, LONDON SW1A 2AH GarDNER-Mepwin, Dr D.; Flocktous, Station Road, Heddon-on-the-Wall, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE NE15 0EG GauntTLett, F. M.; 55 Larkfield Avenue, HARROW, Middx HA3 8NQ Grsss, A.; 48 Bolton Road, CHESSINGTON, Surrey KT9 2JB Gisson, Dr J. A.; Foremount House, KILBARCHAN, Renfrewshire PA10 2EZ Git, D.; Vitoria 37, 09004 BuRGos, Spain 1962-70, 1988 GrLiHaM, E. H.; 31 Coast Drive, Lydd on Sea, ROMNEY MaRSH, Kent TN29 9NL 1975 1983 Gixtston, H.; Chemin des Mouettes 16, CH 1007, LausANNE, Switzerland Giapwin, H.; The Rev. T. W.; 99 Warren Way, Digswell, wELwyn, Herts AL6 ODL (Committee 1990-) 1981-1983, 1986 GocuFELD, Dr M.; 54 Hollywood Avenue, soMERSET, NJ 08873, USA 1970 1981 1985 1991 1953 1977 1986 1986 1988 1968 1977 1984 1977 1963 1983 1986 1989 1974 1990 1964 1986 1987 1981 1981 1948 1978 1963 1979 1986 1956 1990 1985 1979 1977 1990 1960 1977 1974 1953 1974 1985 1991 1986 1989 1987 1991 1986 1986 1984 1984 1989 1989 1979 1990 1985 1981 1986 Goopa_t, A. E.; 46 Adrian Road, Abbots Langley, waTForD, Herts WD5 0AQ Goopman, S. M.; Dept of Zoology, Field Museum of Natural History, Roosevelt Road at Lakeshore Drive, cHicaco, IL 60605, USA Gorpon, J.; 1 Gallowsclough Road, sTALYBRIDGE, Cheshire SK15 3QS Gortup, P. D.; 36 Kingfisher Court, Hambridge Road, NEwBuRY, Berks Gorton, E.; 249 Wigan Road, Westhaughton, BOLTON, Lancs BL5 2AT Goster, Dr A. G.; c/o E.G.I., Dept of Zoology, South Park Road, oxFoRD OX1 3PS Gos ttn, A. P.; 8 The Walk, Fox Lane, Palmers Green, LONDON N13 4AA GouLpDING, R. V. G.; 239a Carr Road, NoRTHOLT, Middx UB45 4RL Goutner, Dr V.; PO Box 50211, Gr 54013, THESSALONIKI, Greece Gray, B.; 6 Totland Court, Victoria Road, MILFORD-ON-SEA, Hants SO41 ONR (Committee 1977-1980. Vice- Chairman 1980-1983, Chairman 1983-1986) GREEN, Prof. J., Ph.D.; 17 King Edwards Grove, TEDDINGTON, Middlx TW11 9LY GREENLAW, Dr J.S.; Biology Dept, L.I. University, BROOKVILLE, NY 11548, USA GrEENWOOD, Dr J. G.; Science Dept, Stranmills College, BELFaAst BT9 SDY GreENWoOD, DrJ. J. D.; B-T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk IP24 2PU Grecory, P. A.; Tabulil International School, PO Box 69, TABULIL, Western Province, Papua New Guinea Grecory, S. M. S.; 35 Monarch Road, Kingsthorpe Hollow, NORTHAMPTON NN2 6EH Gretton, A.; Cosford Hall, HADLEIGH, Suffolk IP7 6DR GriFFIN, D.; 51a Palace Road, EAST MOLESEY, Surrey (Committee 1983-1986, Vice-Chairman 1986-1989, Committee 1989-90, Vice-Chairman 1990-) GRIFFITH, E.; Pentrecaeau Uchaf, LLANDEILO GRABAN, Powys LD2 3YX Grimes, Dr L. G.; 3 St Nicholas Court, St Nicholas Church St, wARwWIcK CV34 4JD GrossMANN, Dr H.; Wietreie 78, D 2000 HamBuRG 67, Germany Gu tuiick, T. M.; c/o Mrs M. Parker, 5 Tile Barn Close, FARNBOROUGH, Hants GU14 8LS Harrer, Dr J.; Tommesweg 60, D-4300 EssEN 1, Germany Hate, Prof. W. G., Ph.D.; 5 Ryder Close, Aughton, ORMSKIRK, Lancs L39 5HJ Hatt, Mrs B. P.; Woodside Cottage, Woodgreen, FORDINGBIRDGE, Hants SP6 2QU (Committee 1955-1959, 1962-1965, Vice-Chairman 1959-1962) Ha tt, Prof. G. A., Ph.D.; Dept of Chemistry, PO Box 6045, West Virginia University, MORGANTOWN, WV 26506-6045, USA Hancock, J. A., O.B.E.; Jollers, Woodman Lane, Sparsholt, wiNCHESTER, Hants SO21 2NS Hanmer, Mrs D. B.; PO Box 3076, Paulington, MuTARE, Zimbabwe Hansen, B. G.; Slettebakken 2, Lille Sverige, DK 3400 HILLEROD, Denmark Har ey, B. H.; Martins, Great Horkesley, COLCHESTER, Essex CO6 4AH Har ey, Miss V. S., M.Sc.; 30 Margett Street, COTTENHAM, Cambs CB4 4QY HarMawn, A. J. E.; 20 Chestnut Close, HOCKLEY, Essex SS5 5EJ Harper, W. G.; 8 Winton Grove, EDINBURGH EH107AS HarpvuM, Dr J.; 58 Shindington Road, CHELTENHAM, Glos GL53 0JE Harrap, S.; El Coqui, 3 Beresford Road, HoLT, Norfolk NR25 6EW Harrison, C. J. O., Ph.D.; 48 Earls’ Crescent, HARROW, Middx HA1 1XN (Committee 1963-1964, 1965-1968, 1974-1977, Hon. Secretary 1964-1965) Harrison, I. D.; Llyswen, Lon y felin, ABERAERON, Dyfed SA46 OED Harvey, W. G.; c/o FCO (Nairobi), King Charles St., LONDON SW1A 2AH Harwin, Dr R. M.; 2 Norman Close, PO Chisipite, HARARE, Zimbabwe Hasecawa, H.; Dept of Biology, Faculty of Science, Toho University, Miyama-cho, FUNABASHI, Chiba 274, Japan Hausitz, Dr B.; Steimbker Hof 11, D 3000 HANovER 61, Germany Hazevoet, C. J.; H Coenradistr 27-2, 1063 XP amsTERDAM, Netherlands Hearp, G. E.; 4 Lambley Lane, GEDLING, Notts NG4 4PA Hem, C. A. R.; The Banks, Mountfield, ROBERTSBRIDGE, East Sussex TN32 5JY HENDERSON, A. C. B.; 28 St Stephen’s Court, CANTERBURY, Kent CT2 7JP HENDERSON, D.; PO Box 29, LEGANA, Tasmania 7277, Australia HENSHALL, K. W.; Crofthead, Penmark, Barry, S. Glamorgan CF6 9BP Heron, Cpl K.; RAF Boddington, CHELTENHAM, Glos GL5 10TL HesketH, W.; 2 Grasmere Close, Walton-le-Dale, PRESTON, Lancs PRS 4RR Hewitson, D. R.; 1 Langley Road, Highcliffe, curistcHURCH, Dorset BH23 4RN Hiceins, M. C.; 1 Acorn Close, BRIDLINGTON, N. Humberside YO16 5YX Hit, A.; Albrecht Haushofer Str 10, 3200 HILDESHEIM, Germany H1rapo, Dr F .; Estacion Biologica de Donana, Pabellon del Peru, Avda. Maria Luisa s/n, 41013 seviLLE, Spain HIRSCHFELD, E.; Sodra Forstadsgatan 62, S-211 43 MaLMo, Sweden Hockey, Dr P. A.R., P.F.1.A.0.; University of Cape Town, RONDESBOSCH 7700, South Africa Hopcson, M. C.; 61 Palewell Park, East Sheen, LONDON, SW14 8JQ ’ HorFrMANN, IT. W.; Haus Sonneberg, CH 89914 azucst, Switzerland 1957 1933 1970 1992 1973 1972 1980 1989 1970 1960 1981 1981 1978 1985 1981 1986 1992 1975 1987 1985 1986 1984 1984 1981 1978 1983 1973 1970 1986 1951 1989 1990 1985 1989 1974 1982 1991 1980 1992 1985 1965 1986 1983 1986 1989 1992 1960 1990 1982 1990 1981 1988 1984 1973 1989 1979 1987 1989 1986 1985 1982 1989 1988 1974 vi Hoag, P.; 33 Vine Court Road, SEVENOAKS, Kent TN13 3UY (Committee 1962-1966, 1972-1974, Vice-Chairman 1974-1977, Chairman 1977-1980) ( Hotiom, P. A. D.; Inwood Cottage, Hydestile, GoDALMING, Surrey GU84AY (Committee 1938-1941, 1947-1949, 1959-1963) (Hon. Life Member) Hotioway, L. G.; 30 Fernhurst Gardens, Aldwick, BOGNOR REGIS, Sussex PO21 4AZ Hotioway, S. J.; Orchard Cottage, Elmsdale Crescent, ADMASTON, Telford TF5 0AQ Ho.mgs, D. A.; 31 South View, UPPINGHAM, Leics LE15 9TU Hotyoak, D. T.; 48 Carice Gardens, CLEVEDON, Avon BS21 5DH HompserceErR, Dr DomIniQuE G.; Dept. of Zoology & Physiology, Louisiana State University, BATON ROUGE, LA 70803-1725, USA HooGENboorn, W.; Notengaard 32, 3941 LW poorn, Netherlands Horne, Ms J. F. M.; American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St, NEW yorRK, NY 10024- 5192, USA Horwoop, M. T.; 2 Church Close, Benson, oxFoRD, Oxon HounsomgE, Dr M. V.; Manchester University Museum, Oxford Road, MANCHESTER M13 9PL Houston, Dr D. C.; Dept of Zoology, University of Glasgow, GLascow G12 8QQ Hove, Ing. H. G.; 55 Einstein Str., 34602 Hara, Israel Howarb, R. P.; Hogg House, Lower Basildon, READING, Berks RG8 9NH Howe, S.; Alma House, 12 William Street, TORPHINS, Grampian AB3 4JR Hunter, A.; 16 Bollin Walk, Reddish Road, South Reddish, srockport SK5 7JW Huron, A.; c/o MCB Ltd., PO Box 52, port Louis, Mauritius IncEts, Dr J. T. T., D.Sc.; Galgenberglaan 9, B 9120 DESTELBERGEN, Belgium InskiPP, T.; c/o World Conservation Monitoring Centre, 219c Huntingdon Road, CAMBRIDGE CB3 0DL Irons, Dr J. K.; 9 Babylon Way, Ratton, EASTBOURNE, E. Sussex BN20 9DL James, S. L.; c/o ECS Ltd., PO Box 25018, aBu pHaBI, United Arab Emirates James, T. J.; 56 Back Street, Ashwell, BALDocK, Herts SG7 5PE JENNINGS, M. C.; 1 Warners Farm, Warners Drove, SOMERSHAM, Cambs PE17 3HW JENNINGS, P. P.; Garnfawr Bungalow, Bettws, Hundred House, LLANDRINDOD WELLS, Powys LD1 5RP JENSEN, H.; Tolstoje Alle 26, DK 2860 sozrporc, Denmark Jepson, P. R.; ICBP Indonesia Programme, PO Box 212/800, JL Cilosari Block B XII No. 1, BoGor Baru, Bogor 16001, Indonesia JosBLinG, J. A.; 14 The Valley Green, WELWYN GARDEN CITY, Herts AL8 7DQ Jounson, E. D. H.; Crabiere Cottage, Grande Route des Mielles, st OUEN, Jersey JE3 2FN, Channel Islands Jounson, Major F.; 6 Norrington Mead, Broadmead Village, FOLKESTONE, Kent CT 19 5TF Jounson, H. P. H.; 17 Via Bontempi, PERUGIA, Italy JouHNson, W. C. P.; 106 Upper Backway, Shrewton, sAaLisBuRY, Wilts SP3 4DE JounsToNn, A.; 7 Richhill Crescent, Knock, BELFAST BTS 6HF JounstTon, D.; 4 Burn Street, Longtown, CARLISLE, Cumbria CA6 5X W Jounston, Dr J. P.; 4 Lawhead Road West, st ANDREWS, Fife KY16 9NE Jones, Dr A. M.; Fiodhag, Dell Road, NETHYBRIDGE, Inverness-shire PH25 3DL Jones, C. G.; c/o Forestry Quarters, BLACK RIVER, Mauritius, Indian Ocean Jones, Ms. R. M.; 51 Lee Terrace, Blackheath, LONDON SE3 9TA JONGELING, T. B.; 3 Oosterparkstraat 46-1, 1091 JZ amsTeRDAM, Netherlands Kanc NEE; Dept. of Zoology, National University of Singapore, KENTRIDGE, Singapore 0511 Kasoma, P. M. B.; Dept of Zoology, Makerere University, PO Box 7062, KAMPALA, Uganda Keitu, G. S.; Dept of Ornithology, American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St, NEw YorK, NY 10024, USA Ke sey, Dr F. D.; White Cottage, Church Lane, Cley-next-the-Sea, HOLT, Norfolk NR25 7UD Ketsey, Dr M. G.; ICBP, 32 Cambridge Road, Girton, CAMBRIDGE CB3 OPJ Kencu, A. J.; 108 Howard Close, Abbey Gardens, WALTHAM ABBEY, Essex EN9 1XB KENNeDY, Dr R. S.; Cincinnatti Museum of Natural History, 1720 Gilbert Avenue, CINCINNATTI, OH 45202, USA KENNERLY, P.; Flat 2c Crane Court, 45 Sassoon Road, POK FU LAM, Hong Kong KENT, J. de R.; Mews Cottage, Church Hill, mipHurst, Sussex GU29 9NX Kerr-SMILeyY, Lt-Col. P. S.: Towranna Farm, Huntingfield, HALESWORTH, Suffolk IP19 OQP Kettce, R. H.; 75 Dupont Road, LONDON SW20 8EH (Committee 1988-1991) Kuan, Dr Md At! Reza; In Charge, Dubai Zoo, PO Box 67, puBa1, United Arab Emirates KING, J.; 96 Forbes Avenue, POTTERS BAR, Herts EN6 5NQ Kina, J. R.; Dept of Zoology, Edward Grey Institute, South Parks Road, oxFoRD OX1 3PS KNIGHT, J. E.; 33 North Road, Stokesley, MIDDLESBROUGH, Cleveland TS9 5DZ Knox, Dr A. G.; Glebe House, 77 Leighton Road, wiNGrRAVE, Bucks HP22 4PA Koaca, Kimiya; 332-12-12-2 Terukini, Chuo-Ku, Fukuoka 810, Japan KoIkE, SHIGETO; 1523, Honjo, Niigata-shi, NIIGATA PREFECTURE, 950 Japan Kramer, D.; 7 Little Headlands, Putnoe, BEDFORD MK 41 8JT Lack, Dr P. C.; c/o B.T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk IP24 2PU LaInG, R. M.; 87 Johnston Gardens East, Peterculter, ABERDEEN AB1 OLA Lampert, F. R.; c/o 15 Bramble Rise, Westdene, BRIGHTON, Sussex BN1 5GE LamoTue, Ms L.; 7 Payton Street, CANLEY VALE, NSW 2166, Australia LAURENCE OF Mar, Lt.-Cdr.; 69 Salisbury Road, CANTERBURY, Kent CT2 7RZ Lawson, I. B.; 20 Glen Walk, 12 Sugar Farm Trail, Sunningdale, DURBAN 4051, South Africa Layton, A. W.; 95 Manning Road, wooLLaHra, NSW 2025, Australia 1959-74, 1986 Lees-SmiTH, D. T.; 134 The Avenue, Starbeck, HARROGATE, N. Yorks HG1 4QF 1985 1975 1985 1988 1989 1991 LEMAUVIEL, Y.; 11 Rue de Medicis, 75006 Paris, France LEVEQUE, R.; Station Ornithologique, CH 6204, sEmpacn, Switzerland Lewis, I. T.; Gables, Fordcombe, Nr TUNBRIDGE WELLS, Kent TN3 ORY Lim K.; 177 Jalan Loyang Besar, Singapore 1750 Linp, C. R.; Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Les Augres Manor, TRINITY, Jersey JE3 SBF, Channel Islands LInbDBLaD, O.; Skaldevagen 58, S-35239 vaxjo, Sweden 1968-71, 1989 Linpsay, J. D.; 17c Walbrook Avenue, Springfield, MILTON KEYNES, Bucks MK6 3JB 1985 1992 1982 1951-55, 1979 1986 1985 1992 1981 1973 1991 1944 1991 1988 1978 1981 1992 1992 1974 1992 1981 1977 1986 1989 1970 1988 1957 1992 1985 1985 1983 1982 1987 1988 1986 1989 1964 1989 1987 1982 1979 1981 1990 1980 1980 1986 1981 1991 1991 1986 1986 1980 1988 1946 1988 1992 1978 1985 1989 1990 1972 1986 1989 1989 1951 1983 1986 1990 1982 1989 1974 1986 1987 1986 1986 1974 Vil Lister, S. M.; 31 Lisle Street, LOUGHBOROUGH, Leics LE11 0OAY Litt_e, B.; 31 Craigbeath Court, COWDENBEATH, Fife KY4 9BZ LittTLemokrg, F. P.; Plemstall, 264 Dunchurch Road, ruGBy, Warwicks CV22 6HX 1977 LiversIDGE, R., Ph.D.; 92 Central Road, KIMBERLEY, Cape Province 8301, South Africa Lioyp, Capt. G. C., C.B-E., R.N.; Lanterns, Buckmore Avenue, PETERSFIELD, Hants GU32 2EF Lioyp, J. V.; Cynghordy, LLANDOVERY, Dyfed SA20 0LN Lossy, G.; Turnersstraat 42, 2020 anrwerP, Belgium Louette, M.; Achterstr 109, 3080 TERVUREN, Belgium Lovejoy, Dr T. E.; Asst Secretary for External Affairs, Smithsonian Institution, SI-317, 1000 Jefferson Drive SW, wasHINGTON DC 20560, USA McAnprew, R. T.; 5 Thornhill Gardens, HARTLEPOOL, Cleveland TS26 OHY McCanceu, N. V.; Calf of Man Bird Observatory, c/o J Clague, Kionslieau, Plantation Road, PORT ST MARY, Isle of Man McCuttocu, The Rev G. K., O.B.E.; 5 Roy Road, NorTHwoop, Middx HA6 1EQ (Committee 1981-1983, Vice-Chairman 1983-1986, Chairman 1986-1989) McGowan, Dr. K. J.; Ecology and Systematics, Corson Hall, Cornell University, 1rHaca, NY 14853, USA McGowan, P.; Biology Dept, The Open University, Walton Hall, MILTON KEYNES, MK7 6AA McKean, J. L.; 1220-537 Vienna Drive, SUNNYVALE, CA 94089, USA McLavuGutn, T. J.; Lisnacarrig, Brighton Road, Foxrock, Co. Dublin, Eire McNanez, I.; West Lodge, Puddington, South Wirral, Cheshire L64 5ST MecNert, A. H.; Head Gardener’s Cottage, Castle Gardens, ALNWICK, Northumberland NE66 1PH MeNeIL, Dr D. A. C.; 175 Byron Road, LouGHBOROUGH, Leics LE11 0JN McPuHe ti, B. M.; 3711 McKinley St NW, wasHINGTON Dc 20015, USA Mapee, S. C.; 2 Church Row, Sheviock, TORPOINT, Cornwall PL11 3EH Macanusson, A. H.; Rithitie 10 A3, SF 00330 HELSINKI, Finland Main, J. S.; 67 Farm Fields, SANDERSTEAD, Surrey CR2 OHR Ma coum, N. S.; 439 Banbury Road, oxForD, OX2 8ED Mann, Dr C. F.; 123 Hartswood Road, LONDON W12 9NG (Committee 1977-1981) MansFIELD, R. C.; ‘‘Birdwood”’, 15c Lyles Road, Cottenham, CAMBRIDGE CB4 4QR MarcHaNnr, S.; Box 123, Moruya, NSW 2537, Australia Marr, B. A. E.; 17 Roundhouse Drive, West Perry, HUNTINGDON, Cambs PE18 0DJ ManrtIn, J. W. P.; 54 Wolsey Road, EAST MOLESEY, Surrey KT8 9EW Martin, Dr M. R.; 35 Auburn Road, Hawthorne, MELBOURNE, Victoria 3122, Australia Martins, R. P.; 6 Connaught Road, Norwicu, Norfolk NR2 3BP Mason, I. J.; CSIRO Div. of Wildlife Research, PO Box 84, LYNEHAM, ACT 2602, Australia Mason, V.; Interhash 88, PO Box 400, pENPasar 80001, BaLI, Indonesia Massa, Bruno; Via Archirafi 18, Instituto di Zoologia, 90123 PALERMO, Italy Massey, K. G.; 4 Hall Terrace, Great Sankey, WARRINGTON, Cheshire WAS 3EZ Massie, D. B.; 43 Hazel Road, Purley Beeches, READING, Berks RG8 8HR Meap, C. J.; c/o B.T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk [P24 2PU (Committee 1971-1975) Meapows, B. S.; c/o PO Box 30031, Royal Commission for Yanbu, YANBU AL-SINAIYAH, Saudi Arabia MEDLAND, R. D.; PO Box 30370, LILONGE 3, Malawi Mepway, D. G.; PO Box 476, NEW PLYMouTH, New Zealand Merk, E. R.; Smyril, Stenness, STROMNEsS, Orkney MeetTH, P.; Bramenlaan 5, 2116 TR BENTVELD, Netherlands MEININGER, P. L.; Belfort 7, 4336 JK MIDDELBURG, Netherlands Me tprvuM, Dr J. A. K.; Heath House, 1 Millgate, Lisvane, carpIFF CF4 STY Me LviLte, D.S.; c/o WWF (Hong Kong), GPO Box 12721, Hong Kong MeERrEDITH-MIDDLETON, Miss J., Anatomy Dept, University College of London, Gower St, LONDON WCIE 6BT Metcatre, J. W. W.; 17 Culme Close, Oundle, PETERBOROUGH, Northants PE8 4QQ Meysure, Dr B. U.; Herbetstrasse 14, D1000 BERLIN 33, Germany Micaut, Dr. G.; Via Savona 71, MILAN MI I-20144, Italy Mites, D. T.; “‘Clareville’’, 24 Belmont Road, WESTGATE-ON-SEA, Kent CT8 8AX Mitts, T. R.; 36 Chartfield Avenue, Putney, LONDON SW15 6HG MIsKELL, J.; CARE-Bangladesh, GPO Box 226, pHaka, Bangladesh MoE -ter, E.; Parkstr. 13, 4900 HERFORD, Germany Monk, Dr J. F., D.M.; The Glebe Cottage, Goring, READING, Berks RG8 9AP (Vice-Chairman 1965-1968, Chairman 1968-1971, Editor 1976-1991, Committee 1991-) MontemaacciorI, A.; Via Emilio de Cavalieri 12, 00198 roma, Italy Montier, D. J.; Eyebrook, Oldfield Road, Bickley, BROMLEY, Kent BR1 2LF Moore, A. G.; 34 Clarendon Gardens, LONDON W9 1AZ Moore, Mrs A. M.; 1 Uppingham Road, oAKHAM, Rutland LE15 6JB (Committee 1987-1989, Hon. Secretary 1989-) Moret, Dr G.; Route de Sallenelles, Bréville-les-Monts, F 14860 RANVILLE, France Moret, Dr Marie-Yvonne; Route de Sallenelles, Bréville-les-Monts, F 14860 RANVILLE, France Morean, P. J.; Zoology Dept, National Museum of Wales, Cathays Park, carpIFF CF 1 3NP Moraean, R. G.; 13 Cloncurry St, LONDON SW6 6DR Morrow, R.; 3 Bullecourt Way, MATRAVILLE, NSW 2036, Australia Morris, W.; 8 Hughes St, Penygraig, RHONDDA, Mid Glamorgan, CF40 1LX Mountrort, G. R., O.B.E.; 8 Park Manor, St Aldhelms Road, PooLe, Dorset BH13 6BS Moyer, D. C.; c/o Kibebe Farm, PO Box 238, 1rINGA, Tanzania Mutter, Mrs M. N.; Lovedays Mill, pAinswick, Glos GL6 6SH Mi ter, H. H.; Breitenfelder Str 46, D-2000 HamBurG 20, Germany Murpny, M.; Marine Station, Sherkin Island, co. Cork, Eire Muscrove, N. J.; 41 Emery Close, watsaL_, West Midlands WS1 3AC Nakata Yukio; 17-11, 3 chome, Kuwazu, Higasisumiyosi-ku, osaka 546, Japan Nasu, J. W.; 13 Farm Hill, BRIGHTON, Sussex BN2 6BG Natrtress, B.; 25 West Lea Drive, West Ardsley, WAKEFIELD, W. Yorks WF3 1DH NEWLAND, R. A.; 93 Arne Avenue, Parkstone, POOLE, Dorset BH12 4DP. Nicuots, Dr T. D.; University Medical Center, 5620 Greenbriar Suite 103, HousToN, TX 77005, USA NicuHotson, M. P.; The Hilton National, Walcot Street, BATH, Avon BA1 5BJ 1983 1979 1979 1986 1989 1973 1974 1970 1989 1982 1984 1992 1977 1986 1977 1971 1966 1957 1991 1963 1989 1979 1988 1989 1982 1978 1957 1982 1948 1989 1986 1968 1981 1978 1989 1992 1979 1981 1982 1989 1982 1987 1986 1989 1981 1977 1981 1978 1976 1987 1987 1982 1992 1989 1987 1991 1982 1989 1989 1992 1991 1962 1986 1978 1984 1986 1986 1987 1972 1982 viil Nrkovaus, G.; Bosenbuettel 4, 2859 spreka, Germany Nos.e-ROLLIn, C.; Greystones, Glanton, ALNWICK, Northumberland NE66 4AH Osa, Dr T.; Nat. Hist. Mus. & Inst., 955-2 Aoba-Cho, CHIBA 280, Japan Oxp, A. B.; ‘‘Kalinka’’, Flimby Brow, Flimby, MARyporT, Cumbria CA15 8TD Outoso, G.; Le Grand Faubourg, F 26230, GRIGNAN, France Otiver, P. J.; The Briar Patch, Trevereux Hill, Limpsfield Chart, oxTEp, Surrey RH80TL (Committee 1978-1979) Ouney, P.J.S., F.1I.Biol.; Zoological Society of London, Regent’s Park, LONDON NW1 4RY Otson, Dr S. L.; NHB Stop 116, Smithsonian Institution, WASHINGTON DC 20560, USA OnruBiA-BaTIcon, A.; C/Francisco Suarez 2-C 2°D, 47006, VALLADOLID, Spain Oren, Dr D. C.; Dept Zoologica, Museu Goeldi, Caixa Postal 399,. Belem, para, CEP 66040, Brazil OrmeroD, Dr S. J.; Catchment Research Group, National Rivers Authority, Penyfai House, Furnace, LLANELLI, Dyfed SA15 4EL Oy Ler, Sara J.; 43 East Summer St, Apt B, BANGOR, Maine 04401, USA Pain, H. M.; 57 Lings Coppice, Dulwich, LONDON SE21 8SX PAtsson, P.; Carlandersplatsen 4, S 41255, GOTHENBURG, Sweden ParKER, J. G.; Clavering House, Foulden Road, Oxborough, KINGS LYNN, Norfolk PE33 9BL (Committee 1979-1983) Parkes, Dr K. C.; Carnegie Museum, 4400 Forbes Avenue, PITTSBURGH, PA 15213, USA Payne, Dr R. B.; Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, ANN aRBoR, MI 48109, USA PaynTER, Dr R. A., Jnr; Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02138, USA PEAKALL, Dr D. B.; 17 St Mary’s Road, Wimbledon, LONDON SW19 7BZ Peat, R.E. F.; 2 Chestnut Lane, sEVENoAKsS, Kent TN13 3AR (Committee 1969-1971, Hon. Secretary 1971-1989, Chairman 1989-) Peart, D. E. M.; 35 Salisbury Road, Wilton, saLisBurY, Wilts SP2 ODT PEcKOVER, W. S., O.B.E.; 14 Balanda Street, JINDALEE, Queensland 4074, Australia Penry, Dr E. H.; PO Box 138, oRKNEY, Transvaal 2620, South Africa PERRON, R.; 114 Park Lane East, REIGATE, Surrey RH2 8LW PETERSON, A.; Natturufraedistofnun Islands, PO Box 5320, REYKJAVIK 125, Iceland Pettet, Prof. A., Ph.D.; Uplands, The Avenue, Kingsdown, DEAL, Kent CT14 8DU Puiuips, Dr A. R.; Reforma 825 A, Col. Chapultepac, San Nicolas de los Garza, NEUVO LEON, 66450 Mexico PICKERING, R. H.; c/o Mr G. H. Pickering, 8 Ashfield Road, MARKET HARBOROUGH, Leics LE16 7LX PickForD, K. D.; Longridge Corrie, stroup, Glos GL6 7HU Piper, S. E.; 2 Canal Drive, WESTVILLE, 3630 Natal, South Africa Pitman, R. A.; Straiddorn House, Ringneill Road, comMBER, Co. Down BT 23 6EF PLENGE, M. A.; c/o Logistics Services, Inc., 1612 NW 84th Av., MIAMI, Florida 3312-1032, USA Pomeroy, Dr D. E.; Resource Centre, Muienr, PO Box 7298, kKamPpaLa, Uganda Poyser, T.; Town Head House, Calton, WATERHOUSES, Staffs ST10 3JQ Prats TINIDAD, P.; Cami de Rafalat 59, Casats de Trebaluger, MENORCA, Spain Praz, J-C.; Conservateur, Musée Cantonal d’Histoire Naturelle, Case Postale 2160, 42 Av. de la Gare, 1950 sIoNn, Switzerland Price, R. C.; 3 Ashchurch Park Villas, LONDON W12 9SP PrINCcE, P. A.; c/o British Antarctic Survey, Madingley Road, CAMBRIDGE CB3 0ET PritcHeTT, R.S.; 12 Church Terrace, winpsor, Berks SL4 4JG Prys-Jones, Dr R. P.; Sub-Dept of Ornithology, British Museum (Natural History), TRING, Herts HP23 6AP Quay, Dr W. B.; BioResearch Laboratory, Rt1 Box 327, NEW BLOOMFIELD, MO 65063-9719, USA Rag, M. C.; Roydon Hall, Roydon, KINGs LYNN, Norfolk PE32 1AR RajkowskI1, Dr K. 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R.; c/o Barclays de Zoete Wedd, Ebbsgate House, 2 Swan Lane, LONDON EC4R 3TS 1981 1989 1954 1992 1986 1987 1987 1986 1974 1986 1984 1989 1984 1961 1986 1968 1979 1979 1985 1989 1979 1991 1985 1987 1984 1970 1988 1992 1991 1973 1981 1992 1980 1977 1981 1981 1980 1985 1980 1957 1988 1979 1991 1990 1989 1992 1971 1983 1989 1988 1987 1977 1986 1991 1988 1990 1961 1985 1956 1985 1975 1976 1982 1979 1982 1979 1988 1981 1984 1985 1989 19388 1991 1959 1977 1X Saari, Dr C. L. V.; Aasla, SF 21150 rooxa, Finland SaAETHER, S. A.; Dept of Zoology, University of Trondheim, N-7055 praGvoL.L, Norway Sace, B. L.; Waveney House, 41 Waveney Close, WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA, Norfolk NR23 1HU SaLaMan, P. G. 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J., Ph.D.; Zoology & Applied Entomology Dept., Imperial College, LONDON SW7 2AZ SHARLAND, R. E., F.C.A.; 1 Fisher’s Heron, East Mills, FORDINGBRIDGE, Hants SP6 2JR SHarp, B. J.; 1 Meadow Close, Marshalswick, sT ALBANS, Herts AL4 9TG SHarrROCK, Dr J. T. R.; Fountains, Park Lane, Blunham, BEDFoRD MK 44 3NJ Suaw, M. B.; 6 The Spinney, Killingworth Village, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, NE12 0BG SHELDON, F. H.; Dept of Ornithology, Academy of Natural Science, 19th & Parkway, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103, USA Suiceta, Y.; Bird Migration Research Center, Yamashina Institute for Ornithology, Konoyama, Abiko, CHIBA 270-11, Japan SHIRIHAI, H.; PO Box 4168, EILaT 88102, Israel SKINNER, Prof. N. J., Ph.D.; 60 Gunton Drive, LoweEsToFT, Suffolk NR32 4QB Stack, E.; Norwood, 30 Reid Park Road, Jesmond, NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE NE2 2ES Smit, H.; Beukenhorst 411, 1112 BM piemen, Netherlands Situ, D. T.; 18 Edinburgh Place, Earls Avenue, FOLKESTONE, Kent CT20 2HP Situ, G. 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H.; Woodcock Hill, Durrants Lane, BERKHAMSTED, Herts HP4 3TR (Committee 1983-1986) STENWIG, J. T.; Dept of Pathology, Akershus Central Hospital PB33, N-1474 NoRDBYHAGEN, Norway STEPHEN, J. A.; 27 New Street, WELLS, Somerset BAS 2LE STEwaRT-Cox, Miss B.; Long Mead, Brixton Deverill, WARMINSTER, Wilts BA12 7EJ Stixes, F. G.; Instituto de Ciencias Naturales, Univ. Nacional de Columbia, Apto 7495, BoGota pc, Columbia STJERNSTEDT, R.; PO Box 91, siAvVONGA, Zambia Stone, N. H. F.; 64 Trinty Road, Old Wolverton, MILTON KEYNES, Bucks MK12 5PB (Committee 1986-1990) Stott, R. D. E.; 503 May Tower, 7 May Road, Hong Kong STRAHL, Dr S. D.; Wildlife Conservation International, Bronx Zoological Park, 185th Street & Southern Blvd, BRONX, NY 10460, USA Stronacu, N. R. H.; 87 Dorney Court, SHANKILL, Co Dublin, Eire Stuart, DrS.N.; Species Survival Commission, [UCN, Avenue de Mont Blanc, CH 1196 GLanp, Switzerland SUMMERFIELD, Dr B. J.; 11a Avenue Gdns, MARGATE, Kent CT9 3BD SUMMERS-SMITH, J. 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K.; Dept of Biology, Augusta College, aucusta, GA 30910, USA VAN DEN Bere, A. B.; Duinlustparkweg 98, 2082 EG saNDPOORTE-zUID, Netherlands VERHAAGH, M.; Staatliches Museum fur Naturkunde Karlsruhe Abteilung Zoologie, Erbprinzenstr 13, D-7500 KARLSRUHE 1, Germany VINCENT, Col. J., M.B.E.; PO Box 44, Mooi River, 3300 NaTAL, South Africa (Hon. Life Member) Viney, C. A.; 87 Mount Nicholson Gap, Stubbs Road, Hong Kong VioLanl, Dr C. G.; Via S. Vittore 38/A, 20123 mian, Italy Voous, Prof K. H.; VD Duyn Van Masdamlaan 28, 1272 EM HUIZEN NH, Netherlands Wa ker, R. L.; Mount Cottage, PANWICH, Derbyshire DE6 1QJ Watt, J. W.; 19 Tisdale Road, scarsDALE, NY 10583-5613, USA Wa.ms-ey, M. A.; Woodpeckers, Broughton, FORDINGBRIDGE, Hants SO20 8BD Watsh, Dr J. F.; 80 Arundel Road, LyTHAM sT ANNES, Lancs FY8 1BN Watters, M. 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F.; Pumlani, Otters Creek, ZEEKOEVLEI 7945, South Africa WHEELER-HOLOHAN, B. J.; 38 Oregon Square, ORPINGTON, Kent BR6 8BQ WuiTtT Les, C. J.; 19 Sandygate Avenue, The Farthings, sSHREWsBuRY, Shropshire Wiersma, L. J.; Singel 282, 3311 HK porpRECcHT, Netherlands WILKINSON, Sir Denys, F.R.S.; Gayles Orchard, Friston, EASTBOURNE, Sussex BN20 0BA WILKINSON, Dr R.; 2 Weston Grove, UPTON-BY-CHESTER, Cheshire CH2 1QJ WILKINSON, Sir WILLIAM; 119 Castelnau, Barnes, LONDON SW13 9EL WILLEMYNS, F.; Dianadreef 31, 82000 BruGGE, Belgium Wixuiams, Dr E. J.; 24 Birkett Drive, ULVERSTON, Cumbria LA12 9LS WIL.iaMs, J. G.; 14 Tyne Road, oaAKHAM, Rutland LE15 6SJ WILLIAMS, K. F.; 11 Gable Close, DAVENTRY, Northants NN11 4EX WILLIAMS, R. G.; 2 Milwain Road, STRETFORD, Manchester M32 9BY Witspon, H. M. V.; 79 Mill Rise, Westdene, BRIGHTON BN1 5GJ Witson, H. E.; PO Box 10463, MARINE PARADE 4056, South Africa Witson, Dr J. D.; c/o B.T.O., The Nunnery, Nunnery Place, THETFORD, Norfolk [P24 2PU WItson, R. T.; Bartridge House, UMBERLEIGH, Devon EX7 9AS WINFIELD, K. W.; 7 Burlington Road, SKEGNEss, Lincs PE25 2EW Woop, Dr J. B.; Ecology and Conservation Unit, Biology Dept, University College London, Gower Street, LONDON WCIE 6BT Woop, K. P.; Woodnorton, Stone Cross Road, MAYFIELD, E Sussex TN20 6EJ Woop, V. J.; PO Box 401, paLBy, Queensland 4405, Australia Woopcock, M. W.; The Fives, Elderden Farm, Staplehurst, TONBRIDGE, Kent TN120RN (Hon. Secretary 1965-1969) Woobs, R. W.; 68 Aller Park Road, NEWTON ABBOT, Devon TW124NQ Woopson, J. L.; 410 North 600 East, LoGan, Utah 84321, USA Wrieut, A. A.; 7 Fairhurst Drive, Parbold, wicaN, Lancs WN8 7DJ Younc, H. G.; Downstairs Flat, Stathyre, rue Piece de Mauger, sT SAVIOUR, Jersey, Channel Islands Z\EGLER, A. P.; Titcombs, Sheep Street, BURFORD OX8 4LT ZiswiLeR, Prof. Dr V.; Zoological Museum of the University of Zurich, Kunstlergasse 16, CH 8006 zuricu, Switzerland ZONFRILLO, B.; 28 Brodie Road, GLascow G21 3SB XI LIST OF AUTHORS AND CONTENTS AGNEW, P. See ORTIZ-CRESPO, F. I. ALSTROM, P. & OLSSON, U. On the taxonomic status of Phylloscopus affinis and ER ESUDAPFINIESE opie eho REE OLN ORNS EO tS EERO RNS NCR ae OE REEIOe 111 ASH, J. S. Dark plumaged House Martins Delichon urbica in northeastern Siberia . 53 Departure behaviour of night migrants in the eastern Sahara...............-. 244 Northern White-tailed Bush Lark Mirafra albicauda, Singing Bush Lark M. cantillans and Friedmann’s Bush Lark M. pulpa in Ethiopia.............. 247 BAILEY, SF. On the name ‘Friendly Ground-dove” .2 3.55.6 03). cheer 275 BAILLON, F. The nest and eggs of Estrilda caerulescens ........0..00 0c ee ee eee 274 BATES, J. M., PARKER, T. A., CAPPARELLA, A. P. & DAVIS, T. J. Obser- vations on the campo, cerrado and forest avifauna of eastern Depto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia; including.21 species new to the country!) s.))eheeoyree ces seus de oe + ve 86 BEST, I. C. See FRASER, M. W. BOOKSIREGCEDVED lego.) eyes spe See eee ESET KS SA ESE a tec ats area 136, 207, 279 BORNSCHEIN, M. R. See STRAUBE, C. F. BRIGGS, D. J. See FRASER, N. W. BROWNING, M. R. Comments on the nomenclature and dates of publication of SOME) CaxayinBUCETOLIGAe occ cis lec a cinta) = chee) ERE SAUCE ee apa ep er ale ke nse pep See also MONROE, B. L. CAPPARELLA, A. P. See BATES, J. M. CARRENO, M. D. See KRATTER, A. W. CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS given on 19 May 1992. Further information on Herbert; Stevens\and the history of The Club ae sane eleanor el eile 139 CHESSER, R. T. See KRATTER, A. W. CLANCEY, P. A. The status of Corythaix reichenowi Fisher, 1880 and Corythaix CADANISHREICNENOWe OOS = sis cca ei eee Ee EADIE RICE De 57 Taxonomic comment on southeastern representatives of two wide-ranging IAfricantcrsticolas ey ee en A trae teeoke oe aan aualey seedeeae itieke aia see amen tay 218 CLARK, W. S. The taxonomy of Steppe and Tawny Eagles with criteria for separation of museum specimens and live eagles. . 25... 5 ee ee ee eee 150 CLUB NOTICES IN (SCS erk Yedsiee eae a | A a oe a IMU I 82 a ST TM EE OSHS 209 Reportofthe;Committee for 1991 er. oe tine ee ne eh eee 1 AnnualiGeneralViecting 1992 i. a sek rae. sneer Nee AR He Leu RoE eee Te S37 @hairman:s Address U9) May 1992 roe oe chy ep ROE eS Sacre Ie cae 139 COLSTON, P. R. Se RAXWORTHY, C. J. See SHIRIHAI, H. CRAIG, A.J. F.K. The identification of Euplectes species in non-breeding plumage 102 DA SILVA, J. M. C. & STOTZ, D. F. Geographic variation in the Sharp-billed Wreehunterlelobletus'cOntaminatus.( sis ste | Ae ee ee 98 DAVIS, T. J. See BATES, J. M. DEAN, W.R. J. See FRASER, M. W. DOWSETT-LEMAIRE, F. On the vocal behaviour and habitat of the Maned Owl wubulalettdinsouth=western Congo. eye se cline chest: ei ial as serene PANS) EL GOOD?) He mherangeot Malimbus 1badanensisjacks cise) dence ei ee tee 205 ESCALANTE, P. See NAVARRO, A. G. FEARE, C. J. & NEE, K. Allocation of Sturnus melanopterus to Acridotheres ...... 126 FRASER, M. W. & BRIGGS, D. J. New information on the Nesospiza buntings at Inaccessible Island, Tristan da Cunha, and notes on their conservation....... 191 FRASER, M. W., DEAN, W.R.J. & BEST, I. C. Observations on the Inaccessible Island Rail Atlantisia rogersi: the world’s smallest flightless bird............. 12 HMABBERS |ibarapatric species of birds. 224. easier ee Oe eee 250 HAZEVOET, C. J. Further notes on migrants in the Cape Verde Islands......... 61 HERREMANS, M. & LOUETTE, M. Sexual dimorphism in the juvenile plumage of the Courol Leptosomus discolor and considerations on its affinities.......... 182 HOWELL, S. N. G. & WEBB, S. New and noteworthy bird records from (Guatemalajand | Plondurass ice ease eee oer ee HOLME cee eeu Tua ease 42 HUGHES, R. A. On the presence of the Blue-footed Booby Sula nebouxii along the SOME COASH OME ETI: 2 aco tan se toese. ec. leeiim tel hel ORS TEL a SEL ET A rhc eiiare ene vane 132 Xli KRABBE, N. A new subspecies of the Slender-biiled Miner Geositta tenutrostris (Furnariidae) for Ecuador ayo oo eke Gnas beck ee ee Ein ne ee Notes on distribution and natural history of some aaa known Ecuadorean Baedsieyee he eine eee AE a IMIS NORE oS Eas elas cide nal aie reper Ne KRATTER, A. W., CARRENO, M. D., CHESSER, R. T., O’NEILL, J. P. & SILLETT, T.S. Further notes on bird distribution in notheastern Dpto. Santa Cruz, Bolivia, with two species new to Bolivia...............00 0 cece ee eeees LOUETTE, M. The identification of forest Accipiters in Central Africa.......... See also HERREMANS, M. MONROE, B. L. & BROWNING, M. R.A re-analysis of Butorides............. NAVARRO 5&., A. G., PETERSON, A. T. & ESCALANTE, P. New distri- butional information on Mexican birds. 1. The Sierra de Atoyac, Guerrero. ... NEE, K. See FEARE, C. J. OLSON, Sal Requiescat for Tricholimnas conditicius, a rail that never was....... OLSSON, U. See ALSTROM, P. O’NEILL, J. P. See KRATTER, A.W. ONIKI, Y. See WILLIS, E. O. ORTIZ-CRESPO, F. I. & AGNEW, P. The birds of the La Plata Island, Ecuador. PARKER, T. A. See BATES, J. M. PETERSON, A. T. See NAVARRO, A. G. POULSEN, B. O. Range extensions of Orange-checked Parrot and White-browed Purpletuft:in’Amazonian' Venezuela ne soe ae ee een oa ie eon RAMOS, T.R. See ROSS, C. A. RAXWORTHY, C. J. & COLSTON, P. R. Conclusive evidence for the continuing existence of the Madagascar Serpent-eagle Eutriorchis astur..........0.00045 ROBERTSON, C. J. R. & WARHAM, J. Nomenclature of the New Zealand Wandering Albatrosses Diomedea exulams .......... 0c ce ccc cece ROBERTSON, I. New information on birds in Cameroon ...............2.000: ROSELAAR, C. S. A new species of mountain finch Leucosticte from western Tibet ROSS, C. A. & RAMOS, T. R. Distribution of Centropus viridis in the Babuyan Islandsnorthern'Ehilippinesss ra va eel eee gallate Se Coe alee a ara SAFFORD, R. J. A record of Great Knot Calidris tenutrostris from Masuritius, Tivdiant Oceanic sees eisai eneloieres a Tales Roe ope ae 2d cael aa See ge SAMPER K., C. Courtship feeding in the Orange-breasted Fruit-eater Pipreola JUCUNEG ener sie calcio Oe NERS He Ce MSE EIAA CREP TOO AAR ee ee ee ee SCHODDE, R. Towards stabilizing the nomenclature of Australian birds: neo- typification of Myzomela sanguinolenta (Latham, 1801), Microeca fascinans (Latham, 1801) and Microeca leucophaea (Latham, 1801)..................4. SHIRIHAIT, H. & COLSTON, P. R. A new race of the Sand Martin Riparia riparia fromm Disraeli les CUM she ated AT as ANA 5 ASAI CRITAIS IR a aa raa Sp oe ee SILLETT, T.S. See KRATTER, A. W. SNOW, B. K. See SNOW, D. W. SNOW, D. W. & SNOW, B. K. Display of the Golden-winged Manakin Masius CRYNPSOPLENUSH ous sleds easy oie Seu ACNE eRe Ne Sus LEER he eT OR ROTC ae eee STEVENS Herbert. See Chairmanis address e234) ssoj0 ceo eee eae STRAUBE, C. F., BORNSCHEIN, M. R. & TEIXEIRA, D. M. The nest of the Large-billed Antwren Herpsilochmus longirostris .........0.0. cece eee neees STOTZ, D. F. A new subspecies of Aramides cajanea from Brazil ............... See also DA SILVA, J. M. C. SUMMERS-SMITH, J. D. The Tree Sparrow Passer montanus in Sardinia...... TARBURTON, M. K. Weights of some birds from Fiji ..............-026 022-55 TEIXEIRA, D. M. See STRAUBE, C. F. TOMIALOJC, L. Colonization of dry habitats by the Song Thrush Turdus philomelos: is the type of nest material an important constraint?.............. TYE, A. A new subspecies of Cisticola bulliens from Northern Angola............ WARHAM, J. See ROBERTSON, C. J. R. WEBB, S. See HOWELL, S.N.G. WILLIS, E. O. & ONIKI, Y. A new Phylloscartes (Tyrannidae) from southeastern Brazil ee eee se site thaie o, caaic, ose yous Gee eens = Say eRe ae OE EVI ieee 66 276 108 74 36 225 180 136 133 185 129 264 139 277 231 270 X1il INDEX TO SCIENTIFIC NAMES (Compiled by Mary N. Muller) All generic, specific and subspecific names (of birds only) are indexed. New specific and subspecific names are indexed in bold print under generic, specific and subspecific names. abbas, Thraupis 264 abdimii, Ciconia 37 abyssinica, Hirundo 262 abyssinicus, Bucorvus 23-4, 261 — , Turter 261 Acanthiza apicalis 264 — pusilla 264 Acanthogenys chrysoptera 264 — rufogularis 264 Accipiter badius 260 — brevipes 260 — castanilius 50-2 — cooperi 236 — erythropus 52 — francesii 110 — henstii 108-110 — melanoleucus 52 — nisus 230 — rufitorques 35 — soloensis 260 — striatus 236 — tachiro 50-2, 261 — canescens 51 — toussenelii 50-2, 261 Acheta domestica 120-1 Acridotheres 126-8 — cristatellus 128 — fuscus 35, 128 — grandis 128 — javanicus 126-8 — mahrattensis 128 — tristis 35, 126-8 Acrocephalus 113, 254 — arundinaceus 254, 260 — palustris 33 — _schoenobaenus 244 — scirpaceus 244 — stentoreus 254, 260 Actitis hypoleucos 230 — miacularia 67, 70 acunhae, Nesospiza 191—204 acuta, Anas 37, 230 acuticauda, Poephila 264 acuticaudus, Lamprotornis 263 acutirostris, Calandrella 260 adamsii, Gavia 261 aedon, Troglodytes 48, 71 Aegithalos caudatus 32 — concinnus 261 — iouschistos 261 — leucogenys 261 — niveogularis 261 aegyptiaca, Alopochen 245 aenigma, Hemitriccus 91 aequatorialis, Rallus limicola 169 Aerodramus spodiopygius 35 aeruginosus, Circus 38 aethereus, Nyctibius 89 — , Phaethon 69 aethiopica, Hirundo 262 aethiopicus, Laniarius 262 aethiops, Myrmecocichla 262 afer, Euplectes 104-7, 263 — , Francolinus 261 — ,Parus 262 affinis, Euphonia 264 — _,Oreopneuste 111 — ,Phylloscopus 261 — , Veniliornis 263 afra, Eupodotis 261 — , Pytilia 263 afraoides, Eupodotis 261 africana, Mirafra 262 Agapornis personata 261 — pullaria 261 ahantensis, Francolinus 261 Alaemon alaudipes 262 — hamertoni 262 Alauda arvensis 260 — gulgula 260 alaudipies, Alaemon 262 — ,Miuirafra 262 alba, Motacilla 63, 230, 260 — ,Tyto35 alberti, Crax 264 — ,Menura 264 albicauda, Erannornis 262 — _, Mirafra 247-50 alibicilla, Halaeetus 155 albicollis, Ficedula 261 — ,Sclerurus albigularis 147 albifrons, Sterna 62, 63 albigularis, Falco 10 — _, Hirundo 262 — ,Sclerurus 144, 146-7 albipennis, Petrophassa 264 albirostris, Bubalornis 263 — ,Galbula 263 albiventris, Trochocercus 262 albobrunneus, Campylorhynchus 264 albogularis, Francolinus 261 — , Melithreptus 264 albonotatus, Buteo 237 — ,Euplectes 103-6 — _, Trochocercus 262 albosquamatus, Picumnus 277 alboterminatus, Tockus 25, 261 albus, Corvus 263 Alcedinidae 184 Alcedo quadribrachys 215 alcinus, Macheiramphus 37 alector, Crax 263 Alectoris chukar 254, 260 — graeca 254, 260 — rufa 260 alexandrinus, Charadrius 44 alisteri, Cinclosoma 264 Alopochen aegyptiaca 245 alpestris, Eremophila 230, 260 alpina, Calidris 238 althaea, Sylvia 260 Amadina erythrocephala 263 — fasciata 263 amandava, Estrilda 35 Amaurolimnas concolor 44, 237 Amaurospiza concolor 241 Amazilia fimbriata 165 — luciae 46 — versicolor 164, 165 Amazona auropalliata 45 — autumnalis 45 — brasiliensis 164 — xantholora 46 ameliae, Macronyx 262 americanus, Numenius 237 amherstiae, Chrysolophus 260 Ammomanes cincturus 26 — _ phoenicurus 26 amoena, Passerina 261 amsterdamensis, Diomedea exulans 76 Anabacerthia variegaticeps 239 analis, Catamenia 173 — __, Formicarius 264 Anas acuta 37, 230 — clypeata 37 — querquedula 230 — undulata 37 anchietae, Stactolaema 254, 262 Ancistrops strigilatus 144 angolensis, Hirundo 262 — _,Moniticola 262 — , Pitta 262 — , Uraeginthus 263 angustirostris, Lepidocolaptes 277 ani, Crotophaga 238 Anous minutus 35-6 — stolidus 35-6 — tenuirostris 177 anselli, Centropus 261 antarctica, Catharacta 14, 195 anthopeplus, Polytelis 264 Anthoscopus caroli 262 — minutus 262 — musculus 262 — _parvulus 262 — punctifrons 262 anthracinus, Buteogallus 43 Anthreptes collaris 262 — metallicus 262 — platurus 262 Anthus bogotensis 168 — campestris 40, 260 — cervinus 40 X1V — crenatus 262 — godlewskii 260 — leucophrys 262 — lineiventris 262 — _ pallidiventris 262 — rubescens 260 — similis 40 — spinoletta 260 — trivialis 33, 63, 230 — vaalensis 262 antipodensis, Diomedea exulans subsp. nov. 74-80 Antilophia galeata 92, 96 Apalis bamendae 41 apiaster, Merops 260 apiata, Mirafra 262 apicalis, Acanthiza 264 Aplonis tabuensis 35 approximans, Circus 35-6 Apus barbatus 261 — _bradfieldi 261 Aquila belisarius 151—2 — chrysaetos 155 — nipalensis 150-6 — orientalis 151 — rapax 150-6 — vindhiana 151 — wahlbergi 38 arabs, Neotis 261 aracari, Pteroglossus 263 Aramides axillaris 44 — cajanea 165, 231-4, 264 Aramides cajanea avicenniae subsp. nov. 231-4 cajanea 232-4 chiricote 233 — mangle 233 — wolfi 264 arcanus, Phylloscopus subaffinis 120 arctica, Gavia 261 arctoa, Leucosticte 228—9 Ardea cinerea 230 — cocoi 67, 70 ardens, Euplectes 103-6 Ardeola striata 81 ardosiaceus, Falco 261 argentatus, Larus 238, 254, 260 ariel, Fregata 35-6 armatus, Vanellus 261 arquata, Cichladusa 262 — ,Numenius 62 Artamus mentalis 35 arundinaceus, Acrocephalus 260 arvensis, Alauda 260 Asio clamator 239 — stygius 88, 239 assimilis, Picoides 260 — _ ,Tolmomyias 93 Asthenes wyatti 168 astrild, Estrilda 263 astur, Eutriorchis 108-10 aterrimus, Phoeniculus 261 Atlantisia rogersi 12—21, 199 atra, Monasa 263 atratus, Coragyps 70 atricapilla, Sylvia 41 atricapillus, Parus 261 atricilla, Larus 67, 70, 238 atricollis, Eremomela 262 — __, Ortygospiza 263 — , Saltator 94 atrogularis, Serinus 263 atronitens, Xenopipo 92 Attila phoenicurus 91 audreyana, Leucosticte brandti 228 augur, Buteo 261 aura, Cathartes 67, 70 aurantigula, Macronyx 262 aurantius, Lanio 264 auratus, Icterus 242 aureola, Pipra 263, 270 aureus, Euplectes 104-5 auricularis, Myiornis 91 auriculata, Zenaida 70, 72 aurifrons, Melanerpes 261 auritum, Crossoptilon 260 auropalliata, Amazona 45 aurulentus, Tolmomyias flaviventris 90 australis, Eremopterix 262 — ,Tchagra 262 Automolus infuscatus 144 — melanopezus 144 autumnalis, Amazona 45 avicenmiae, Aramides cajanea subsp. nov. 231-4 avosetta Recurvirostra 61 axillaris, Aramides 44 — ,Euplectes 103-6 azureocapilla, Myiagra 35 badius, Accipiter 260 — ,Caprimulgus 239 — ,Ploceus 263 bairdii, Calidris 45 bamendae, Apalis 41 bannermani, Anthus similis 40 — , Nectarinia 262 barbarus, Laniarius 262 barbata, Cercotrichas 262 barbatus, Apus 261 — _ ,Pycnonotus 262 Barnardius barnardi 264 — zonarius 264 barrabandi, Pionopsitta 263, 276-7 Basileuterus culicivorus 8-9, 146, 160, 164 — hypoleucus 164 batesi, Caprimulgus 215 Batis molitor 262 — orientalis 262 — perkeo 262 —— pririt 262 — senegalensis 262 — soror 262 baudinii, Calyptorhynchus 264 beauharnaesu, Pteroglossus 263 beavani, Parus 261 beccarii, Sericornis 264 belisarius, Aquila 151—2 bellicosa, Sturnella 67, 71 bengala, Estrilda 275 bengalensis, Centropus 180 bengalus, Uraeginthus 263 beniensis, Accipiter castanilius 51 bennettii, Campethera 262 bensoni, Cisticola chiniana 224 bergu, Sterna 35 biarmicus, Falco 260 bicalcaratus, Francolinus 261 bicolor, Dendrocygna 42, 235 — , Laniarius 262 — , Turdoides 262 bidentatus, Harpagus 43, 236 — ,Lybius 262 bilopha, Eremophila 260 bimaculata, Melanocorypha 260 bimaculatus, Cnemotriccus fuscatus 164 birostris, Buceros 24 — _,Meniceros 24 — ,Ocyceros 24 bitorquatus, Pteroglossus 96, 263 blanfordi, Montifringilla 230 blythi, Tragopan 260 bogotensis, Anthus 168 bokharensis, Parus 261 borbae, Tolmomyias flaviventris 90 borin, Sylvia 33 bottae, Oenanthe 262 bouvieri, Nectarinia 262 — ,Scotopelia 215 brachylopha, Lophornis 7 Brachypteraciidae 183-4 brachypterus, Buteo 110 brachyura, Camaroptera 262 — ,Synallaxis 264 brachyurus, Buteo 43 bradfieldi, Apus 261 — , Tockus 25, 261 brandti, Leucosticte 225-30 branickii, Odontorchilus 96 brasiliensis, Amazona 164 brevicauda, Camaroptera 262 — ,Muscigralla 71-2 brevipes, Accipiter 260 — , Heteroscelus 135 — _,Monticola 262 brevirostris, Amazilia versicolor 164-5 — _,Phyllomyias fasciatus 91 — _, Rhynchocephalus 264 — _,Rhynchocyclus 7-8 brevis, Ramphastos 264 breweri, Merops 215 Brotogeris chrysopterus 263 — cyanoptera 263 bruniceps, Emberiza 261 brunneonucha, Leucosticte arctoa 228 brunnescens, Cisticola 218-21 brunnescens taciturnus, Cisticola subsp. nov. 219-21 , Malacoptila rufa 145 Bubalornis albirostris 263 niger 263 Bucanetes githagineus 261 mongolicus 261 Bucco tamaitia 89 Buceros birostris 24 convexus 25 leadbeateri 23-4 rhinoceros 24 Bucerotidae 22-5 buchanani, Emberiza 261 bucinator, Ceratogymna 261 Bucorvus abyssinicus 23-4, 261 cafer 22 leadbeateri 24, 261 schlegeli 23 bulliens, Cisticola 56, 262 bulliens septentrionalis, Cisticola subsp. nov. 55-6 bullockoides, Merops 261 bulocki, Merops 261 burmannicus, Sturnus 128 Buteo albonotatus 237 augur 261 brachypterus 110 brachyurus 43 buteo 254 galapagoensis 72 hemilasius 260 magnirostris 43 nitidus 43 platypterus 236 rufinus 260 rufofuscus 261 vulpinus 254 Buteogallus anthracinus 43 Butorides 81 striatus 73, 81-5 patens 83 sundevalli 72 virescens 81-5 maculatus 83 margaritophilus 83, 85 Bycanistes subquatratus 25 cabanisi, Corythaix 57 , Lanius 262 , Tauraco livingstonii 57-60 Cacatua galerita 264 leadbeateri 264 pastinator 264 sanguinea 264 tenuirostris 264 cachinnans, Larus 254, 260 caerulescens, Chen 236 , Estrilda 274-5 , Porphyrospiza 94, 96 , Rallus 14 caeruleus, Cyanerpes 264 , Parus 261 caesia, Emberiza 261 caesius, Thamnomanes 144, 147, 263 cafer, Bucorvus 22-3 Xvi , Promerops 262 , Pycnonotus 35 caica, Pionopsitta 263 cailliautii, Campethera 262 cajanea, Aramides 165, 231-4, 264 cajanea avicenniae, Aramides subsp. nov. 231-4 calandra, Melanocorypha 260 Calandrella acutirostris 260 cheleenis 260 cinerea 260 conirostris 262 fringillaris 262 rufescens 260 sclateri 262 starki 262 Galidie 135 alpina 238 bairdii 45 canutus 61 ferruginea 134 fuscicollis 45 melanotos 45 minutilla 45 temminckii 230 tenuirostris 134-5 californien Callipepla 261 , Polioptila 261 calliope, Luscinia 260 Callipepla californica 261 gambelii 261 calva, Treron 261 Calyptorhynchus baudinii 264 funereus 264 lathami 264 magnificus 264 camargoi, Heliobletus contaminatus subsp. nov. 98-101 Camaroptera brachyura 262 brevicauda 262 fasciolata 262 simplex 262 stierlingi 262 subcinnamomea 262 Campephaga flava 262 petiti 262 campestris, Cisticola chiniana 2214 campestris, Anthus 40, 260 , Cisticola chiniana 221—4 Campethera bennettii 262 cailliautii 262 maculosa 262 nubica 262 punctuligera 262 Camptostoma obsoletum 277 Campylorhynchus albobrunneus 264 procurvoides 263 trochilirostris 263 zonatus 264 canescens, Accipiter tachiro 51 , Eremomela 262 caniceps, Myiopagis 277 , Prionops 262 Canirallus oculeus 215 canorus, Cuculus 40, 184 — ,Melierax 261 cantillans, Mirafra 247-50 canutus, Calidris 61 capensis, Euplectes 103-5 — ,Macronyx 262 — _, Microparra 39 — _ ,Pycnonotus 262 — ,Zonotrichia 162, 168 capicola, Streptopelia 261 Capito dayi 144, 145, 147 — niger 145, 147 Caprimulgus 40 — badius 239 — batesi 215 — clarus 261 — climacurus 261 — fossi 261 — inornatus 261 — stellatus 261 caprius, Chrysococcyx 184 cardinalis, Certhia 188 — ,Meliphaga 188 — , Quelea 107 Carduelis lammea 261 — hornemanni 261 — magellanica santaecrucis 96 — olivacea 94, 96, 146 — siemiradskii 173 — spinescens 173 carinatum, Electron 47 carnifex, Phoenicircus 263 caroli, Anthoscopus 262 carolinensis, Dumetella 242 — ,Parus 261 carolinus, Melanerpes 261 carpenteri, Centropus viridis 180 Carpodacus 226-7, 231 — erythrinus 230 — nipalensis 227 — puniceus 229 — rubicilloides 229-31 Carpophaga oceanica 177 Carpornis 134 carunculata, Foulehaio 35-6 Casarca ferruginea 230 cassini, Malimbus 205-7, 263 — , Psarocolius 264 — _, Veniliornis 263 castanea, Sitta 261 castanilius, Accipiter 50—2 castanotum, Cinclosoma 264 castanotus, Colius 261 Catamenia analis 173 Catharacta antarctica 14, 195 Cathartes aura 67, 70 Catherpes lucidus 241 caudatus, Aegithalos 32 — ,Lamprotornis 263 cautus, Sericornis 264 cayanus, Cyanocorax 264 cayennensis, Euphonia 263-4 XVil ceciliae, Phylloscartes 158, 163 Celeus 144 — elegans 145-6 — grammicus 263 — lugubris 145-6 — roosevelti 146 — _ spectabilis 144 — undatus 263 Centropus anselli 261 — begalensis 180 — leucogaster 261 — viridis 180-1 Ceratogymna bucinator 261 — fistulator 261 Cercoccyx montanus 261 — olivinus 261 Cercomacra cinerascens 147 — manu 144 — nigrescens 263 — tyrannina 263 Cercomela familiaris 262 — melanura 262 — scotocerca 262 Cercotrichas barbata 262 — quadrivirgata 262 — _ signata 262 Certhia cardinalis 188 — dibapha 188 — _erythropygia 188 — sanguinolenta 185-8 certhia, Dendrocolaptes 10 certhiola, Locustella 260 cervinus, Anthus 40 Cettia flavolivacea 121 chadensis, Mirafra cantillans 248-9 — , Mirafra cheniana 250 Chaetura chapmani 89 chalcolophus, Tauraco livingstonii 60 chalcospilos, Turtur 261 chalybea Nectarinia 262 chapmani, Chaetura 89 Charadrius 177 — alexandrinus 44 — marginatus 39 Charitospiza eucosma 95, 96 charmosyna, Estrilda 263 cheleenis, Calandrella 260 Chen caerulescens 236 cheniana, Mirafra 250, 262 cherrug, Falco 260 chiguanco, Turdus 173 chihi, Plegadis 261 chiniana, Cisticola 221—5 chiniana vulpiniceps, Cisticola subsp. nov. 224-4 — _,Drymoica 221 chionoptera, Diomedea exulans 74, 76, 80 chiricote, Aramides cajanea 233 chiriquensis, Elaenia 92 Chlyamydera maculata 264 — nuchalis 264 chloris, Halcyon 35-6 Chlorocichla falkensteini 262 Chlorocichla flaviventris 262 chloromeros, Pipra 263 chloropterus, Lamprotornis 263 Chlorospingus ophthalmicus 241 Chordeiles pusillus 89 chrysaetos, Aquila 155 chrysater, Icterus 242 Chrysococcyx caprius 184 chrysocome, Eudyptes 21, 204 Chrysolophus amherstiae 260 — pictus 260 chrysoparia, Dendroica 48 chrysopeplus, Pheucticus 71 chrysoptera, Acanthogenys 264 — _,Muscicapa 189 — , Vermivora 48, 241 chrysopterus, Brotogeris 263 — , Masius 264-270 chukar, Alectoris 260 cia, Emberiza 261 Ciccaba nigrolineata 46 Cichladusa arquata 262 — guttata 262 Cichlocolaptes leucophrus 101 Ciconia abdimii 37 — nigra 37 Cinclodes excelsior 168 Cinclosoma alisteri 264 — castanotum 264 — cinnamomeum 264 — punctatum 264 cincta, Peophila 264 cincturus, Ammomanes 26 cinctus, Parus 261 cineraceus, Sturnus 128 cinerascens, Cercomacra 147 — ,Circaetus 38, 261 — , Fraseria 215 cinerea, Ardea 230 — ,Calandrella 260 — _, Creatophora 41 cinereum, Todirostrum 277 cinereus, Circaetus 38 — _,Odontorchilus 93, 96, 148 cinnamomeum, Cinclosoma 264 cinnamomeus, Cisticola brunnescens 221 Circaetus cinerascens 38, 261 — cinereus 38 — fasciolatus 261 — _ gallicus 38 Circus aeruginosus 38 — approximans 35-6 — macrourus 38 — pygargus 38 Cisticola brunnescens 218-21 Cisticola brunnescens taciturnus subsp. nov. 219-21 — bulliens 56, 262 Cisticola bulliens septentrionalis subsp. nov. 55-6 — chiniana 221-5 Cisticola chiniana vulpiniceps subsp. nov. 222-4 XVill — juncidis 219 — lateralis 262 — nana 262 — ruficeps 262 — textrix 220 — woosnami 262 citreolaemus, Ramphastos 264 citrinella, Emberiza 33, 261 citrinipectus, Serinus 263 clamans, Spiloptila 262 clamator, Asio 239 clappertoni, Francolinus 261 clarus, Caprimulgus 261 climacurus, Caprimulgus 261 clypeata, Anas 37 Clytorhynchus vitiensis 35 Cnemotriccus fuscatus 164 Coccyzus melacorhyphus 72 cocoi, Ardea 67, 70 coelebs, Fringilla 32 Coereba flaveola 277 Colibri delphinae 46 Colius castanotus 261 — striatus 261 collaris, Anthreptes 262 — _,Miurafra 262 collingwoodi, Tolmomyias flaviventris 90 collurio, Lanius 261 collybita, Phylloscopus 33, 121, 261 Columba leucocephala 238 — vitiensis 35-6 Columbina cruziana 70 comeri, Gallinula 14 comptus, Trogon 264 concinnus, Aegithalos 261 concolor, Amaurolimnas 44, 237 — ,Amaurospiza 241 — _, Corythaixoides 261 — ,Dendrocolaptes 96 — , Falco 110, 246 — _, Ptyonoprogne 260 conditicius, Tricholimnas 174-8 conirostris, Calandrella 262 — , Indicator 262 Conirostrum speciosum 277 constantii, Heliomaster 9 contaminatus, Heliobletus 98-101 contaminatus camargoi, Heliobletus subsp. nov. 98-101 Contopus sordidulus 261 — virens 261 contra, Sturnus 128 convexus, Buceros 25 cooperi, Accipiter 236 Coracias garrulus 183 Coraciidae 183-4 Coraciiformes 183—4 Coragyps atratus 67, 70 Corapipo 265 corax, Corvus 261 coronata, Pipra 263 corone, Corvus 261 corvina, Corvinella 262 Corvinella corvina 262 — melanoleuca 262 Corvus albus 263 — corax 261 — corone 261 — dauuricus 261 — edithae 263 — monedula 261 — ruficollis 261 — torquatus 261 Corythaix cabanisi 57 — reichenowi 57-8 corythaix, Tauraco 58-60, 261 Corythaixoides concolor 261 — personata 261 Cosmopsarus regius 263 — unicolor 263 Cossypha dichroa 262 — natalensis 262 Cotinga cotinga 263 — maynana 263 Coturnix coturnix 260 — japonica 260 Cracticus mentalis 264 — torquatus 264 crassus, Poicephalus 261 Crax alberti 264 — alector 263 — fasciolata 263 — globulosa 263 — rubra 264 Creatophora cinerea 41 crenatus, Anthus 262 crepitans, Psophia 263 Crinifer piscator 261 — zonurus 261 Criniferoides leucogaster 261 cristata, Elaenia 92 — , Galerida 260, 262 — , Lophostrix 215 cristatellus, Acridotheres 128 — _, Cyanocorax 93, 96 cristatus, Lanius 261 — _, Psophodes 264 — ,Tachyphonus 93, 263 croceus, Macronyx 262 Crossoptilon auritum 260 — crossoptilon 260 Crotophaga ani 238 — sulcirostris 70, 238 cruziana, Columbina 70 cryptoleucus, Thamnophilus 263 cryptoxanthus, Poicephalus 261 cryptus, Cypseloides 239 Cuculidae 184 cucullata, Hirundo 262 Cuculus 177, 183 — canorus 40, 184 culicivorus, Basileuterus 8—9, 146, 160, 164 culik, Selenidera 263 curruca, Sylvia 244, 260 cursor, Cursorius 261 Cursorius cursor 261 XIX — temminckii 261 curvirostra, Loxia 261 cyanea, Passerina 242, 261 cyaneovirens, Erythrura 35 Cyanerpes caeruleus 264 — _cyaneus 10 — lucidus 264 cyanescens, Galbula 263 cyaneus, Cyanerpes 10 cyanicollis, Galbula 263 — , Tangara 94, 96, 146 cyanoleuca, Notiochelidon 168 Cyanocorax cayanus 264 — cristatellus 93, 96 — cyanomelas 93 — violaceus 264 cyanomelas, Cyanocorax 93 — _,Phoeniculus 261 cyanoptera, Brotogeris 263 cyanus, Cyanocorax 264 — ,Parus 261 Cyclarhis gujanensis 277 Cymbilaimus lineatus 147 — sanctaemariae 144 Cypseloides 7, 239 — cryptus 239 — niger 46, 239 — rutilus 239 dabbenena, Diomedea exulans 76, 80 dactylatra, Sula 67-9, 71 Dactylortyx thoracicus 237 dasypus, Delichon 54, 260 dauuricae, Perdix 260 dauuricus, Corvus 261 dayi, Capito 144, 145, 147 Deconychura longicauda 144 deiroleucus, Falco 237 Delichon dasypus 54, 260 — urbica 53-5, 260 delphinae, Colibri 46 Dendrocolaptes certhia 10 — concolor 96 Dendrocygna bicolor 42, 235 Dendroica chrysoparia 48 — discolor 48 — occidentalis 261 — _ petechia 72 — pinus 93 — townsendi 261 — virens 48 Dendrocolaptes concolor 96 Dendrocygna bicolor 42, 235 Dendropicos goertae 262 — _ griseocephalus 262 — namaquus 262 — pyrrhogaster 262 — xantholophus 262 denhami, Neotis 261 dentata, Petronia 263 derbianus, Oreophasis 44 devillei, Drymophila 148 diadematus, Euplectes 104—5, 263 dibapha, Certhia 188 — ,Myzomela 186 dichroa, Cossypha 262 dickinsoni, Falco 261 difficilis, Phylloscartes 163 diffusus, Passer 263 Diglossa humeralis 168 diluta, Riparia riparia 129-32 Diomedea exulans 74-80 Diomedea exulans antipodensis subsp. nov. 74-80 Diomedea exulans gibsoni subsp. nov. 76-80 Diomedea irrorata 67, 68, 71 discolor, Dendroica 48 — ,Leptosomus 182-4 dissors, Tolmomyias flaviventris 90 doliatus, Thamnophilus 90 domestica, Acheta 120-1 domesticus, Passer 71, 119, 242, 254, 261, 273 dominica, Oxyura 42, 236 — _, Pluvialis 35-6, 62, 261 dominicanus, Larus 67, 70 dominicensis, Tyrannus 240 donaldsoni, Serinus 263 dorsalis, Lanius 262 dorsostriatus. Serinus 263 Dromococcyx phasianellus 10, 238 Drymoica chiniana 221 Drymophila devillei 148 dubius, Lybius 262 Ducula oceanica 177 Dumetella carolinensis 242 dumicola, Polioptila 277 dupontii, Tilmatura 47 Dysithamnus 278 — puncticeps 264 — _ striaticeps 264 edithae, Corvus 263 edolioides, Melaenornis 262 edouardi, Guttera 261 edwardsi, Lophura 260 Egretta sacra 35 egregius, Cisticola brunnescens 218-21 eilata, Riparia riparia subsp. nov. 130-2 Elaenia chiriquensis 92 — cristata 92 — flavogaster 92, 240 — martinica 240 — obscura 172 Elanus leucurus 43 Electron carinatum 47 — platyrhynchum 47 elegans, Celeus 145-6 — _,Malurus 264 — ,Rallus175 elegantissima, Euphonia 241 eleonorae, Falco 110 ellioti, Syrmaticus 260 Emberiza bruniceps 261 — buchanani 261 — caesia 261 — cia26l1 — citrinella 33 — flaviventris 41 — _godlewskii 261 — hortulana 261 — melanocephala 261 emendata, Cisticola chiniana 225 eminibey, Passer 263 Erannornis albicauda 262 — longicauda 262 eremita, Nesocichla 14, 192 Eremomela atricollis 262 — canescens 262 — flavocrissalis 262 — icteropygialis 262 — pusilla 262 — _ salvadorii 262 — _ scotops 262 — usticollis 262 Eremophila alpestris 230, 260 — bilopha 260 Eremopterix australis 262 — leucopareia 262 — leucotis 262 — nigriceps 262 — signata 262 erythrinus, Carpodacus 230 erythrocephala, Amadina 263 — ,Pipra 263-4 erythrocnemis, Pomatorhinus 261 erythrogaster, Laniarius 262 — _,Malimbus 263 erythrogenys, Pomatorhinus 261 erythronotus, Estrilda 263 erythrophthalmus, Pipilo 254 erythrops, Quelea 107 erythroptera, Gallicolumba 276 erythropus, Accipiter 52 — , Tringa 39, 62 erythropygia, Certhia 188 erythrothorax, Synallaxis 264 Erythrura cyaneovirens 35-6 — kleinschmidti 35 Estrilda amandava 35 — _astrild 263 — bengala 275 — caerulescens 274-5 — charmosyna 263 — erythronotus 263 — troglodytes 263 Eubucco richardsoni 144 eucosma, Charitospiza 95, 96 Eudynamys scolopaceus 184 Eudyptes chrysocome 21, 204 eulophotes, Lophotriccus 263 Eupherusa eximia 239 Euphonia affinis 264 — cayannensis 263-4 — elegantissima 241 — laniirostris 263-4 — |luteicapilla 264 — minuta 48 Euphonia rufiventris 263-4 — violacea 263-4 Se ee SS 102-7 afer 104-7, 263 — albonotatus 103-6 — ardens 103-6 — aureus 104-5 — axillaris 103-6 — capensis 103-5 — diadematus 104-5, 263 — franciscanus 104-7, 263 — gierowu 103-5 — hartlaubi 103-6 — hordeaceus 103-5 — jacksoni 104-6 — macrourus 103-6 — nigroventris 104-7, 263 — orix 103-7, 263 — _progne 102-6 Eupodotis afra 261 — afraoides 261 — rueppellii 261 — vigorsi 261 Euscarthmus rufomarginatus 91, 96 Eutriorchis astur 108-10 excelsior, Cinclodes 168 excubitor, Lanius 262 excubitorius, Lanius 262 exilis, Laterallus 44, 237 eximia, Eupherusa 239 explorator, Monticola 262 exulans, Diomedea 74-80 exulans antipodensis, Diomedea subsp. nov. 74-80 exulans gibsoni, Diomedea subsp. nov. 76-80 exustus, Pterocles 39 falcinellus, Plegadis 261 Falco albigularis 10 — ardosiaceus 261 — biarmicus 260 — cherrug 260 — concolor 110, 246 — deiroleucus 237 — dickinsoni 261 — eleonorae 110 — jugger 260 — naumanni 39 — newtoni110 — pelegrinoides 39, 260 — peregrinus 39, 73, 260 minor 39 — subbuteo 39 vespertinus 39 faleensteate Chlorocichla 262 familiaris, Cercomela 262 fasciata, (Acadia 263 fasciatus, Phyllomyias 91 — ,Ramsayornis 264 — , Tockus 25, 261 fasciicauda, Pipra 263 fascinans, Loxia 185-8 — _,Milicroeca 185-9 fasciolata, Camaroptera 262 — ,Crax 263 fasciolatus, Circaetus 261 ferruginea, Calidris 134 — _, Casarca 230 — __, Hirundinea 146 ferrugineus, Laniarius 262 Ficedula albicollis 261 — semitorquata 261 filicauda, Pipra 263 fimbriata, Amazilia 165 finschi, Neocossyphus 262 fischeri, Phyllastrephus 262 — , Tauraco 261 fistulator, Ceratogymna 261 flammea, Carduelis 261 flammigerus, Ramphocelus 264 flava, Campephaga 262 — ,Motacilla 260 flaveola, Coereba 277 flavescens, Lichenostomus 264 flavicans, Macrosphenus 262 — ,Prinia 262 flavifrons, Poicephalus 261 flavigula, Piculus 96 flavirostris, Pteroglossus 263 flavissima, Motacilla 260 flaviventris, Chlorocichla 262 — ,Emberiza 41, 261 — _,Serinus 263 — _ ,Tolmomyias 90 flavocrissalis, Eremomela 262 flavogaster, Elaenia 92, 240 flavolivacea flavolivacea, Cettia 121 fluviatilis, Locustella 260 fokienensis, Riparia riparia 130 Formicarius analis 264 — nigricapillus 264 Formicivora melanonotus 165 — serrana 165 formicivora, Myrmecocichla 262 forsteri, Sterna 45 fortis, Cisticola chiniana 223 fossi, Caprimulgus 261 Foulehaio carunculata 35-6 francesii, Accipiter 110 franciscanus, Euplectes 104-7, 263 Francolinus afer 261 — ahantensis 261 — albogularis 261 — _bicalcaratus 261 — clappertoni 261 — hildebrandti 261 — _ icterorhynchos 261 — leucoscepus 261 — natalensis 261 — rufopictus 261 — schlegelii 261 — squamatus 261 — swainsonii 261 fraseri, Neocossyphus 262 Fraseria cinerascens 215 frater, Cisticola chiniana 222, 224 Fregata ariel 35-6 — magnificens 67, 69 — minor 35-6, 71 Fringilla coelebs 32 fringillaris, Calandrella 262 frontatus, Lybius 262 fulleborni, Macronyx 262 fulicarius, Phalaropus 62 fuligula, Ptyonoprogne 260 fulva, Pluvialis 261 fulviventris, Phyllastrephus 262 fulvus, Lanius 263 funereus, Calyptorhynchus 264 fusca, Malacoptila 263 fuscater, Turdus 168 fuscatus, Cnemotriccus 164-5 fuscicauda, Ramphotrigon 148 fuscicollis, Calidris 45 fuscus, Acridotheres 35, 128 — , Lichenostomus 264 gabonensis, Ortygospiza 263 galapagoensis, Buteo 72 — _,Zenaida 72 Galbalcyrhynchus leucotis 263 — purusianus 263 Galbula albirostris 263 — cyanescens 263 — _cyanicollis 263 — galbula 263 — rufoviridis 263 — tombacea 263 Galbuloidea 183 galeata, Antilophia 92, 96 Galerida cristata 260, 262 — malabarica 262 — theklae 260 galerita, Cacatua 264 Gallicolumba 276 — erythroptera 276 — _ stairi1 275-6 gallicus, Circaetus 38 Gallinago gallinago 169 — imperialis 169 — jamesoni 169 — nobilis 169 Gallinula comeri 14 Gallirallus philippensis 35 Gallus gallus 35-6 gambelii, Callipepla 261 Garrulax maximus 261 — ocellatus 261 garrulus, Coracias 183 Gavia adamsii 261 — arctica 261 — immer 261 — pacifica 261 geoffroyi, Neomorphus 263 Geobates poecilopterus 89, 95, 96 Geositta tenuirostris 166-8 XXIi Geositta tenuirostris kalimayae subsp. nov. 166-8 gibsoni, Diomedea exulans subsp. nov. gierowii, Euplectes 103—5 giglioli, Leucosticte arctoa 228 gilletti, Mirafra 262 gilvus, Mimus 48 gingalensis, Meniceros 24 — ,Ocyceros 24 githagineus, Bucanetes 261 glareola, Tringa 230 glaucoides, Larus 261 globulosa, Crax 263 Glossopsitta porphyrocephala 264 — pusilla 264 godlewskii, Anthus 260 — _, Emberiza 261 goeldii, Myrmeciza 263 goertae, Dendropicos 262 gongonensis, Passer 263 gouldii, Selenidera 263 gracilis, Leptosomus discolor 182—3 — ,Oceanites 69 Gracupica 126 graeca, Alectoris 260 Grallaria guatimalensis 47 — ruficapilla 171 — watkinsi 171 grammicus, Celeus 263 Granatellus pelzelni 149 grandis, Acridotheres 128 — _, Nyctibius 89 gravis, Puffinus 21, 204 griseicapillus, Sittasomus 7-9, 277 griseiventris, Parus 262 griseocephalus, Dendropicos 262 griseus, Meniceros 24 — ,Nyctibius 89 — ,Ocyceros 24 — , Passer 263 grossus, Pitylus 149 guatemalensis, Phloeoceastes 264 guatimalensis, Grallaria 47 guatimozinus, Psarocolius 264 gubernator, Lanius 262 gujanensis, Cyclarhis 277 gulgula, Alauda 260 gulielmi, Poicephalus 261 gurneyi, Promerops 262 guttata, Cichladusa 262 — ,Myrmotherula 264 — _, Ortalis 263 Guttera edouardi 261 — plumifera 261 — pucherani 261 Gymnobucco peli 262 — sladeni 261 Gymnocichla nudiceps 240 gymnogenys, Turdoides 262 Gymnopithys leucaspis 264 — rufigula 264 gyrola, Tangara 264 XXI1il habessinica, Nectarinia 262 holti, Cichlocolaptes leucophrus 101 haemastica, Limosa 44 hordeaceus, Euplectes 103-5 Haematopus palliatus 237 hornemanni, Carduelis 261 haematopygia, Leucosticte brandti 228 hortulana, Emberiza 261 haematotis, Pionopsitta 264 hudsonicus, Numenius phaeopus 62 Helcyon chloris 35-6 — ,Parus 261 — senegalensis 261 humeralis, Diglossa 168 — _ senegaloides 261 — ,Terenura 144 Haliaeetus albicilla 155 hunteri, Nectarinia 262 — leucocephalus 155 hybridus, Turacus 58 haliaetus, Pandion 73 Hylexetastes perrotii 263 hamertoni, Alaemon 262 — stresemanni 263 — ,Miuirafra 262 Hylophilus muscicapinus 93, 94 Haplospiza 95 hypermetra, Mirafra 262 Harpagus bidentatus 43, 236 hypochroma, Sporophila 95 hartlaubi, Euplectes 103-6 Hypocnemoides maculicauda 263 hauxwelli, Myrmotherula 264 — _ melanopogon 263 helenae, Lophornis 47 hypogrammica, Pytilia 263 Heliobletus contaminatus 98-101 hypoleucos, Actitis 230 Heliobletus contaminatus camargoi hypoleucus, Basileuterus 164 subsp. nov. 98-101 — , Turdoides 262 Heliomaster constantii 9 hypopyrrha, Streptopelia 40 — longirostris 8-10 hypoxantha, Sporophila 95 hemilasius, Buteo 260 Hemitriccus aenigma 91 ibadanensis, Malimbus 205-7, 263 — rufigularis 172 icterina, Hippolais 41, 260 hemprichii, Tockus 25 icteropygialis, Eremomela 262 henstii, Accipiter 108, 110 icterorhynchos, Francolinus 261 Herpsilochmus 278 Icterus auratus 242 — longirostris 90, 277-8 — chrysater 242 — pectoralis 277 Ictinia plumbea 70 — pileatus 90 Idioptilon striaticolle 277 — rufimarginatus 90, 147, 278 ignobilis, Thripadectes 178 Heteroscelus brevipes 135 ijimae, Riparia riparia 130—2 — incanus 67, 70 Ilicura militaris 270 Heterospingus rubrifrons 264 immer, Gavia 261 — xanthopygius 264 imperialis, Gallinago 169 heuglini, Neotis 261 — _, Lophura 260 Hieraaetus pennatus 39 impeyanus, Lophophorus 260 — spilogaster 39 incanus, Heteroscelus 67, 70 hildebrandti, Francolinus 261 indica, Riparia riparia 130—2 himalayensis, Picoides 260 Indicator conirostris 262 Hippolais icterina 41, 260 — minor 262 — languida 260 indicus, Passer 261 — olivetorum 260 — ,Urocolius 261 — polyglotta 260 infuscatus, Automolus 144 Hirundinea ferruginea 146 inornatus, Caprimulgus 261 hirundineus, Merops 40 interjecta, Vidua 263 Hirundo abyssinica 262 intermedia, Leucosticte brandti 228 — aethiopica 262 intermedius, Leptosomus discolor 182-3 — albigularis 262 Iodopleura isabellae 277 — angolensis 262 iouschistos, Aegithalos 261 — cucullata 262 iris, Pipra 263 — lucida 262 irrorata, Diomedea 67, 68, 71 — nigrita 262 isabellae, lodopleura 277 — preussi 40 italiae, Passer 254, 261 — rustica 129, 195, 245, 262 — smithi 262 jacksoni, Euplectes 104-6 — tahitica 35 jaliscensis, Sittasomus griseicapillus 8 hirundo, Sterna 62-3, 230 jamaicensis, Laterallus 237 hispanica, Oenanthe 260 — , Leptotila 45 hispaniolensis, Passer 254 jamesi, T’chagra 262 — ,Poospiza71 jamesoni, Gallinago 169 japonica, Coturnix 260 jardinei, Turdoides 262 javanica, Mirafra 247-8 javanicus, Acridotheres 126-8 johnstoni, Musophaga 261 jota, Cathartes aura 70 Jubula lettii 213-7 jucunda, Pipreola 133-4 jugger, Falco 260 jugularis, Myzomela 35 juncidis, Cisticola 219 kalimayae, Geositta tenuirostris subsp. nov. 166-8 Kaupifalco monogrammicus 38 kempi, Macrosphenus 262 kleinschmidti, Erythrura 35 kori, Neotis 261 Kozlowia 226-31 — roborowskii 227-9 kronei, Phylloscartes sp. nov. 158-65 lafresnayanus, Tricholimnas 175 Lagonosticta senegala 274-5 lagopoda, Delichon urbica 54 Lalage maculosa 35 lamberti, Malurus 264 lamellipennis, Xipholena 263 Lamprotornis acuticaudus 263 — caudatus 263 — chloropterus 263 — purpuropterus 263 lanceolata, Locustella 260 languida, Hippolais 260 Laniarius aethiopicus 262 — _ barbarus 262 — bicolor 262 — erythrogaster 262 — ferrugineus 262 — turatii 262 laniirostris, Euphonia 263—4 Lanio aurantius 264 — leucothorax 264 Laniocera rufescens 48 Lanius cabanisi 262 — collurio 261 — cristatus 261 — dorsalis 262 — excubitor 262 — _excubitorius 262 — fulvus 263 — gubernator 262 — nubicus 41 — _ schach 261 — _ senator 41 — somalicus 262 — souzae 262 — tephronotus 261 — versicolor 263 lapponica, Limosa 62 Larus argentatus 238, 254, 260 — atricilla 67, 70, 238 — cachinnans 254, 260 XXIV — dominicanus 67, 70 — glaucoides 261 — marinus 238 — _ sabini 62 — thayeri 261 larvatus, Oriolus 263 latebricola, Scytalopus 171 lateralis, Cisticola 262 — ,Zosterops 35 Laterallus exilis 44, 237 — jamaicensis 237 — ruber 237 — viridis 88 lathami, Calyptorhynchus 264 laticaudus, Euplectes ardens 106 lavinia, Tangara 264 leadbeateri, Buceros 23-4 — , Bucorvus 24, 261 — ,Cacatua 264 Lepidocolaptes angustirostris 277 Leptosomus discolor 182—4 Leptotila jamaicensis 45 leschenaulti, Merops 260 lessoni, Mayrornis 35 lettii, Jubula 213-7 leucaspis, Gymnopithys 264 leucocephala, Columba 238 leucocephalus, Haliaeetus 155 — _ ,Lybius 262 leucogaster, Centropus 261 — _,Criniferoides 261 — , Pionites 263 — ,Sula 35-6 leucogenys, Aegithalos 261 — _ ,Pycnonotus 261 leucolophus, Tigriornis 215 leucomelana, Lophura 260 leucomelas, Parus 262 leucopareia, Eremopterix 262 leucophaea, Microeca 185-9 — , Sylvia 185-8 leucophrus, Cichlocolaptes 101 leucophrys, Anthus 262 — ,Zonotrichia 242 Leucepsar rothschildi 126 leucoptera, Melanocorypha 260 — ,Piranga 10 — _, Psophia 263 leucopterus, Picoides 260 leucopyga, Nyctiprogne 96 — ,Oenanthe 260 leucopygius, Serinus 263 — , Turdoides 262 leucorodia, Platalea 61 leucoscepus, Francolinus 261 Leucosticte 225-31 — arctoa 228-9 — _brandti 225-30 — nemoricola 228-30 Leucosticte sillemi sp. nov. 226-31 leucothorax, Lanio 264 leucotis, Eremopterix 262 — _, Galbalcyrhynchus 263 leucotis, Pycnonotus 261 — ,Stactolaema 262 leucura, Oenanthe 260 — , Saxicola 260 leucurus, Elanus 43 libonyanus, Turdus 262 Lichenostomus flavescens 264 — fuscus 264 limicola aequatorialis, Rallus 169 Limosa haemastica 44 — lapponica 62 lincolnii, Melospiza 242 lineatus, Cymbilaimus 147 — , Milvus 254 lineiventris, Anthus 262 Lipaugus unirufus 134 livingstonii, Tauraco 57—60, 261 Locustella 254 — certhiola 260 — fluviatilis 260 — lanceolata 260 — naevia 260 — ochotensis 260 loitanus, Tauraco livingstonii 60 longicauda, Deconychura 144 — ,Erannornis 262 longicaudatus, Mimus 67, 71—2 longirostris, Heliomaster 8-10 — , Herpsilochmus 90, 277-8 Lophophorus impeyanus 260 — sclateri 260 Lophornis brachylopha 7 — helenae 47 Lophostrix cristata 215 Lophotriccus eulophotes 263 — vitiosus 263 Lophura edwardsi 260 — imperialis 260 — leucomelana 260 — nycthemera 260 lorenzii, Phylloscopus 261 Loxia curvirostra 261 — fascinans 185-8 — scotica 261 luciae, Amazilia 46 lucida, Hirundo 262 lucidus, Catherpes 241 — , Cyanerpes 264 luctuosus, Tachyphonus 149 ludovicianus, Pheucticus 261 — , Thryothorus 240 lugubris, Celeus 145-6 lunatus, Melithreptus 264 Lurocalis semitorquatus 46 Luscinia calliope 260 — luscinia 260 — megarhynchos 260 — pectoralis 260 XXV — frontatus 262 — leucocephalus 262 — leucomelas 262 — rolleti 262 — rubrifacies 262 — torquatus 262 Macheiramphus alcinus 37 Macronyx ameliae 262 — aurantigula 262 — capensis 262 — croceus 262 — fulleborni 262 macroptera, Myzomela 186 macroscelides, Accipiter tachiro 50-1 Macrosphenus flavicans 262 — kempi 262 macrourus, Circus 38 — ,Euplectes 103-6 — , Urocolius 261 macularia, Actitis 67, 70 maculata, Chlamydera 264 maculatus, Butorides virescens 83 maculicauda, Hypocnemoides 263 maculirostris, Muscisaxicola 168 maculosa, Campethera 262 — , Lalage 35 — ,Prinia 262 maculosus, Nyctibius 170 madaraspatensis, Motacilla 260 magellanica, Carduelis 96 magellanicus, Scytalopus 171 magnificens, Fregata 67, 69 magnificus, Calyptorhynchus 264 magnirostris, Buteo 43 — _,Mryiarchus 72 — __, Sericornis 264 mahrattensis, Acridotheres 128 major, Centropus viridis 180 — __, Cisticola textrix 220 — ,Parus 261 — _, Picoides 260 — , Taraba 277 malabarica, Galerida 262 Malacoptila fusca 263 — rufa144—5, 147 — _ semicincta 263 Malimbus 206 — cassini 205-7, 263 — erythrogaster 263 — ibadenensis 205-7, 263 — scutatus 263 Malurus elegans 264 — lamberti 264 — pulcherrimus 264 mangle, Aramides 233 manillae, Penelopides panini 25 manu, Cercomacra 144 lutea, Motacilla 260 margaritacea, Leucosticte brandti 228-30 luteicapilla, Euphonia 264 margaritophilus, Butorides virescens 83, 85 luteus, Passer 263 marginata, Mirafra cantillans 247-9 Lybius bidentatus 262 — __, Mirafra javanica 248 — dubius 262 marginatus, Charadrius 39 marinus, Larus 238 marleyi, Cisticola textrix 220 marshallianus, Ptilinopus 177 martinica, Elaenia 240 masculinus, Heliomaster longirostris 9 Masius chrysopterus 265-70 maximus, Garrulax 261 maynana, Cotinga 263 Mayrornis lessoni 35 Mecocerculus minor 172 megacephala, Ramphotrigon 148 megarhynchos, Luscinia 260 melacoryphus, Coccyzus 72 Melaenornis edolioides 262 — pammelaina 262 Melanerpes aurifrons 261 — carolinus 261 — uropygialis 261 melanocephala, Emberiza 261 — _ , Sylvia 260 melanocephalus, Pheucticus 261 — ,Pionites 263 — ,Ploceus 263 — , Tragopan 260 melanoceps, Myrmeciza 263 Melanocorypha bimaculata 260 — calandra 260 — leucoptera 260 — mongolica 260 melanogaster, Piaya 88 melanoleuca, Corvinella 262 melanoleucus, Accipiter 52 — _, Phloeoceastes 264 — _, Spizastur 43 melanonotus, Formicivora 165 melanopezus, Automolus 144 melanopogon, Hypocnemoides 263 melanops, Turdoides 262 melanoptera, Metriopelia 168 melanopterus, Sturnus 126-8 melanotos, Calidris 45 melanura, Cercomela 262 — ,Polioptila 261 — _,Pyrrhura 263 melanurus, Trogon 264 Melierax canorus 261 — metabates 261 — poliopterus 261 Meliphaga cardinalis 188 Melithreptus albogularis 264 — lunatus 264 Melospiza lincolnii 242 Meniceros birostris 24 — gingalensis 24 — griseus 24 mentalis, Artamus 35 — ,Cracticus 264 — ,Pipra 264 Menura alberti 264 — novaehollandiae 264 Merops apiaster 260 — bullockoides 261 — bulocki 261 XXV1 — breweri 215 — hirundineus 40 — leschenaulti 260 — oreobates 261 — variegatus 261 merula, Turdus 27-33 metabates, Melierax 261 metallicus, Anthreptes 262 Metallura williami 170 Metriopelia melanoptera 168 meyeri, Poicephalus 261 michleri, Pittasoma 264 Microeca fascinans 185-9 — leucophaea 185-9 Microparra capensis 39 micrura, Myrmia 71 migrans, Milvus 254 militaris, Ilicura 270 Milvus lineatus 254 — migrans 254 Mimus gilvus 48 — longicaudatus 67, 71—2 mindorensis, Centropus viridis 180 minor, Falco peregrinus 39 — ,Fregata 35-6, 71 —_, Indicator 262 — _,Mecocerculus 172 minula, Sylvia 260 minuta, Euphonia 48 — ,Sterna177 minutilla, Calidris 45 minutus, Anous 35—6 — _, Anthoscopus 262 Muirafra africana 262 — alaudipes 262 — albicauda 247-50 — apiata 262 — cantillans 247-50 — cheniana 262 — collaris 262 — gilletti 262 — hamertoni 262 — hypermetra 262 — javanica 247-8 — _ passerina 262 — poecilosterna 262 — _pulpa 247-50 — rufocinnamomea 262 Mitu mitu 263 — _ salvini 263 — tomentosa 263 mocuba, Cisticola chiniana 225 modestus, Ramsayornis 264 modularis, Prunella 33 molitor, Batis 262 Monasa atra 263 — morphoeus 263 — nigrifrons 263 monedula, Corvus 261 mongolica, Melanocorypha 260 mongolicus, Bucanetes 261 monogrammicus, Kaupifalco 38 montanus, Cercoccyx 261 XXVIl montanus, Passer 270-3 naumanni, Falco 39 Monticola angolensis 262 — , Turdus 260 — brevipes 262 nebouxii, Sula 67, 69, 71, 132-3 — explorator 262 nebularia, Tringa 230 — _saxatilis 230 Nectarinia bannermani 262 — solitarius 41 — bouvieri 262 Montifringilla 225-6 — chalybea 262 — blanfordi 230 — _ habessinica 262 — nivalis 225 — hunteri 262 morphoeus, Monasa 263 — neergardi 262 Motacilla alba 63, 230, 260 — olivacea 262 — flava 260 — osea 262 — flavissima 260 — oustaleti 262 — lutea 260 — pulchella 262 — madaraspatensis 260 — senegalensis 262 — taivana 260 — talatala 262 motmot, Ortalis 263 — verticalis 262 mozambicus, Serinus 263 — violacea 262 multicolor, Petroica 35 neergardi, Nectarinia 262 Muscicapa chrysoptera 189 nemoricola, Leucosticte 228-30 — striata 63, 245 Neochmia temporalis 187 muscicapinus, Hylophilus 93, 94 Neocossyphus finschi 262 Muscigralla brevicauda 71—2 — fraseri 262 Muscisaxicola maculitrostris 168 Neomorphus geoffroyi 263 musculus, Anthoscopus 262 — pucherani 263 Musophaga johnstoni 261 Neopelma pallescens 92 — _ porphyreolophus 261 — sulphureiventer 93 — rossae 261 Neophron percnopterus 37 — violacea 261 Neotis arabs 261 Myadestes unicolor 240 — denhami 261 Myiagra azureocapilla 35 — heuglini 261 — vanikorensis 35 — kori 261 Myiarchus magnirostris 72 Nesocichla eremita 14, 192 — swainsoni 164, 277 Nesospiza acunhae 191—204 Myiopagis caniceps 277 — wilkinsi 191—204 — viridicata 47 newtoni, Falco 110 Myiophobus phoenicomitra 172 niger, Bubalornis 263 Myiornis auricularis 91 — ,Capito 145, 147 Myrmeciza goeldii 263 — ,Cypseloides 46, 239 — melanoceps 263 — , Parus 262 Myrmecocichla aethiops 262 nigra, Ciconia 37 — formicivora 262 — ,Myrmecocichla 262 — nigra 262 nigrescens, Cercomacra 263 Myrmia micrura 71 nigricans, Pycnonotus 262 Myrmotherula 278 nigricapillus, Formicarius 264 — guttata 264 nigriceps, Eremopterix 262 — hauxwelli 264 nigricollis, Phoenicircus 263 — unicolor 162 — ,Sturnus 126, 128 mystacea, Sylvia 260 nigrifrons, Monasa 263 Myzomela dibapha 186 nigrita, Hirundo 262 — jugularis 35 nigrocinereus, Thamnophilus 263 — macroptera 186 nigrolineata, Ciccaba 46 — sanguinolenta 185-9 nigrorufa, Sporophila 95 nigroventris, Euplectes 104-7, 263 naevia, Locustella 260 nipalensis, Aquila 150—6 nagaensis, Sitta 261 — _, Carpodacus 227 namaquus, Dendropicos 262 nisus, Accipiter 230 nana, Cisticola 262 nitidus, Buteo 43 natalensis, Cossypha 262 — _, Phylloscopus 261 — ,Francolinus 261 nivalis, Montifringilla 225 nattereri, Lurocalis semitorquatus 46 niveogularis, Aegithalos 261 — ,Pipra 263 nobilis, Gallinago 169 — ,Selenidera 263 Notiochelidon cyanoleuca 168 novaehollandiae, menura 264 nubica, Campethera 262 nubicus, Lanius 41 nuchalis, Chlamydera 264 nudiceps, Gymnocichla 240 Numenius americanus 237 — arquata 62 — phaeopus 62, 237 nuttalli, Picoides 261 Nyctanassa violacea 72 nycthemera, Lophura 260 Nyctibius aethereus 89 — grandis 89 — griseus 89 — maculosus 170 Nyctiphrynus yucatanicus 239 Nyctiprogne leucopyga 96 obscura, Elaenia 172 — _, Psalidoprogne 262 obscurus, Turdus 260 obsoletum, Camptostoma 277 ocai, Pipilo 254 occidentalis, Dendroica 261 — , Pelecanus 67, 69 — _, Psophodes 264 oceanica, Carpophaga 177 — ,Ducula177 Oceanites gracilis 69 ocellatus, Garrulax 261 — _, Xiphorhynchus 263 ochotensis, Locustella 260 ochropus, Tringa 230 oculeus, Canirallus 215 Ocyceros birostris 24 — gingalensis 24 — griseus 24 Odontorchilus branickii 96 — cinereus 93, 96, 148 Oenanthe bottae 262 — hispanica 260 — leucopyga 260 — leucura 260 — oenanthe 63 — pileata 262 — _pleschanka 260 olivacea, Carduelis 94, 96, 146 — , Nectarinia 262 — , Tiaris 242 olivaceus, Phalacrocorax 69 — _,Rhynchocephalus 264 olivetorum, Hippolais 260 olivii, Turnix 264 olivinus, Cercoccyx 261 opacus, Scytalopus magellanicus 171 ophthalmicus, Chlorospingus 241 oreobates, Merops 261 Oreophasis derbianus 44 Oreopneuste affinis 111 orientalis, Aquila 151 — , Batis 262 — ,Streptopelia 260 Oriolus larvatus 263 XXVIil — percivali 263 orix, Euplectes 103-7, 263 ornatus, Spizaetus 10 Ortalis guttata 263 — motmot 263 — _ superciliaris 263 Ortygospiza atricollis 263 — gabonensis 263 oryzivora, Padda 35 osea, Nectarinia 262 Otus senegalensis 217 oustaleti, Nectarinia 262 Oxyura dominica 42, 236 Pachycephala pectoralis 35 Pachyramphus polychopterus 240 pacifica, Gavia 261 pacificus, Puffinus 35-6 Padda oryzivora 35 pallescens, Neopelma 92 palliatus, Haematopus 237 pallida, Zosterops 262 pallidior, Leucosticte brandti 226-8 pallidus, Rhynchocyclus brevirostris 7 — ,Turdus 260 pallidiventris, Anthus 262 palmarum, Thraupis 264 palustris, Acrocephalus 33 pammelaina, Melaenornis 262 Pandion haliaetus 73 panini, Penelopides 25 papa, Sarcoramphus 10 paradisaea, Sterna 62-3 — , Vidua 263 Paradoxornis paradoxus 261 — unicolor 261 paradoxus, Paradoxornis 261 parasiticus, Stercorarius 238 Pardalotus punctatus 264 — xanthopygius 264 pardalotus, Xiphorhynchus 263 Parula pitiayumi 149 Parus afer 262 — atricapillus 261 — beavani 261 — bokharensis 261 — caeruleus 261 — carolinensis 261 — cinctus 261 — cyanus 261 — griseiventris 262 — hudsonicus 261 — leucomelas 262 — major 261 — niger 262 — _ rubidiventris 261 — rufescens 261 — spilonotus 261 — xanthogenys 261 parvulus, Anthoscopus 262 Passer diffusus 263 — domesticus 71, 119, 242, 254, 261, 273 Passer eminibey 263 — gongonensis 263 — griseus 263 — _ hispaniolensis 254 — indicus 261 — italiae 254, 261 — luteus 263 — montanus 270-3 — _ suahelicus 263 Passerina 95, 254 — amoena 261 — cyanea 242, 261 passerina, Mirafra 262 — ,Spizella 121 passerinii, Ramphocelus 264 passerinus, Veniliornis 277 pastinator, Cacatua 264 patens, Butorides striatus 83 pectoralis, Herpsilochmus 278 — , Luscinia 260 — _, Pachycephala 35 Pelecanus occidentalis 67, 69 — rufescens 37 pelegrinoides, Falco 39, 260 peli, Gymnobucco 262 pelios, Turdus 262 pelzelni, Granatellus 149 Penelopides panini 25 pennatus, Hieraaetus 39 percivali, Oriolus 263 percnopterus, Neophron 37 Perdix dauuricae 260 — _perdix 260 peregrinus, Falco 39, 73, 260 perkeo, Batis 262 perlata, Pyrrhura 263 perrotii, Hylexetastes 263 persa, Tauraco 261 personata, Agapornis 261 — ,Corythaixoides 261 peruviana, Tangara 163-4 petechia, Dendroica 72 petiti, Campephaga 262 Petroica 187-189 — multicolor 35 — phoenicea 187, 189 — rodinogaster 189 — rosea 187 Petronia dentata 263 — pyrgita 263 — superciliaris 263 Petrophassa albipennis 264 — rufipennis 264 phaeopus, Numenius 62, 237 Phaethon aethereus 69 Phalacrocorax olivaceus 69 Phalaropus fulicarius 62 — tricolor 45 phasianellus, Dromococcyx 10, 238 Pheucticus 254 — chrysopeplus 71 — ludovicianus 261 — melanocephalus 261 XXIX Phigys solitarius 35 philippensis, Gallirallus 35 philomelos, Turdus 27-33 Philydor 144 Phloeoceastes guatemalensis 264 — melanoleucus 264 phoebus, Tauraco corythaix 59-60 phoenicea, Petroica 187, 189 Phoenicircus carnifex 263 — nigricollis 263 phoenicius, Tachyphonus 94 phoenicomitra, Myiophobus 172 phoenicoptera, Pytilia 263 Phoeniculus aterrimus 261 — cyanomelas 261 phoenicurus, Ammomanes 260 — ,Attila 91 Phrygilus unicolor 168 Phyllastrephus fischeri 262 — fulviventris 262 — scandens 262 Phyllomyias fasciatus 91 — virescens 158 Phylloscartes ceciliae 158, 163 — difficilis 163 Phylloscartes kronei sp. nov. 158-65 — roquettei 158 — ventralis 158-64 Phylloscopus 254 — affinis 111-125, 261 — collybita 33, 121, 261 — lorenzii 261 — nitidus 261 — sibilatrix 33 — subaffinis 111-25, 261 — trochiloides 261 — trochilus 33, 121 Piaya melanogaster 88 Picidae 184 Piciformes 184 Picoides assimilis 260 — himalayensis 260 — leucopterus 260 — major 260 — nuttalli 261 — _ scalaris 47, 261 —_ syriacus 260 picta, Pyrrhura 263 pictus, Chrysolophus 260 Piculus flavigula 96 Picumnus albosquamatus 277 Picus squamatus 260 — viridis 260 pileata, Oenanthe 262 pileatus, Herpsilochmus 90 pinus, Dendroica 93 — _, Vermivora 48, 241 Pionites leucogaster 263 — melanocephalus 263 Pionopsitta barrabandi 263 — caica 263 — haematotis 264 — pulchra 264 Pionopsitta vulturina 263 Pipilo erythrophthalmus 254 — ocai 254 Pipra aureola 263, 270 — chloromeros 263 — coronata 263 — _ erythrocephala 263-4 — fasciicauda 263 — filicauda 263 — iris 263 — mentalis 264 — nattereri 263 — pipra270 — rubrocapilla 263 — serena 270 — vilasboasi 263 Pipreola jucunda 133-4 — riefferii 134 Piranga leucoptera 10 piscator, Crinifer 261 pitiayumi, Parula 149 Pitta angolensis 262 — reichenowi 262 Pittasoma michleri 264 — rufopileatum 264 Pitylus grossus 149 Platalea leucorodia 61 platensis, Mimus longicaudatus 67, 71—2 platurus, Anthreptes 262 platypterus, Buteo 236 platyrhynchos, Platyrinchus 148 platyrhynchum, Electron 47 Platyrinchus platyrhynchos 148 platyura, Schoenicola 41 plebejus, Turdoides 262 Plegadis chihi 261 — falcinellus 261 pleschanka, Oenanthe 260 Ploceus badius 263 — melanocephalus 263 — rubiginosus 263 — taeniopterus 263 plumbea, Ictinia 70 plumifera, Guttera 261 pluricinctus, Pteroglossus 263 Pluvialis dominica 35-6, 62, 261 — fulva 261 Podiceps ruficollis 14 poecilopterus, Geobates 89, 95, 96 poecilosterna, Mirafra 262 Poephila acuticauda 264 — cincta 264 Poicephalus crassus 261 — cryptoxanthus 261 — flavifrons 261 — gulielmi 261 — meyeri 261 — robustus 261 — rueppellii 261 — rufiventris 261 — senegalus 261 poliocephalus, Turdus 35 poliopterus, Melierax 261 XXX Polioptila californica 261 — dumicola 277 — melanura 261 Polyboroides radiatus 110 polychopterus, Pachyramphus 240 polyglotta, Hippolais 260 Polytelis anthopeplus 264 — _ swainsonii 264 pomarinus, Stercorarius 238 Pomatorhinus erythrocnemis 261 — erythrogenys 261 Poospiza hispaniolensis 71 porphyreolophus, Musophaga 261 porphyrocephala, Glossopsitta 264 Porphyrospiza 95 — caerulescens 94, 96 preciosa, Tangara 163 preussi, Hirundo 40 Prinia flavicans 262 — maculosa 262 — somalica 262 — _subflava 262 Prionops caniceps 262 — rufiventris 262 pririt, Batis 262 pristoptera, Psalidoprogne 262 procerus, Cisticola chiniana 223-5 procurvoides, Campylorhamphus 263 progne, Euplectes 102-6 Promerops cafer 262 — _ gurneyi 262 Prosopeia tabuensis 35 Protokus 25 Prunella modularis 33 Psalidoprogne obscura 262 — pristoptera 262 Psarocolius cassini 264 — guatimozinus 264 Psophia crepitans 263 — leucoptera 263 — viridis 263 Psophodes cristatus 264 — occidentalis 264 Pterocles exustus 39 Pteroglossus aracari 263 — _ beauharnaesii 263 — _bitorquatus 96, 263 — flavirostris 263 — _ pluricinctus 263 Ptilinopus marshallianus 177 Ptyonoprogne concolor 260 — fuligula 260 — _ rupestris 260 pucherani, Guttera 261 — ,Neomorphus 263 Puffinus gravis 21, 204 — pacificus 35-6 — puffinus 235 pulchella, Nectarinia 262 pulcherrimus, Malurus 264 pulchra, Pionopsitta 264 pullaria, Agapornis 261 pulpa, Mirafra 247-50 punctatum, Cinclosoma 264 punctatus, Pardalotus 264 puncticeps, Dysithamnus 264 punctifrons, Anthoscopus 262 punctuligera, Campethera 262 punicea, Xipholena 93, 262 puniceus, Carpodacus 229 purpuropterus, Lamprotornis 263 purusianus, Galbalcyrhynchus 263 pusilla, Acanthiza 264 — ,Eremomela 262 — _ , Glossopsitta 264 — ,Spizella121 pusillus, Chordeiles 89 Pycnonotus barbatus 262 — cafer35 — capensis 262 — leucogenys 261 — leucotis 261 — nigricans 262 pygargus, Circus 38 pyrgita, Petronia 263 Pyrocephalus rubinus 67, 71—2 pyrrhogaster, Dendropicos 262 pyrrhopygius, Sericornis 264 Pyrrhura melanura 263 — perlata 263 — picta 263 — rhodogaster 96, 263 Pytilia afra 263 — hypogrammica 263 — phoenicoptera 263 quadribrachys, Alcedo 215 quadrivirgata, Cercotrichas 262 Quelea cardinalis 107 — erythrops 107 — quelea 107 querquedula, Anas 230 questi, Nesospiza acunhae 198 radiatus, Polyboroides 110 Rallus caerulescens 14 — elegans 175 — limicola 169 Ramphastos brevis 264 — citreolaemus 264 — sulfuratus 264 — vitellinus 264 Ramphocelus flammigerus 264 — passerinii 264 Ramphotrigon fuscicauda 148 — megacephala 148 Ramsayornis fasciatus 264 — modestus 264 rapax, Aquila 150-6 Recurvirostra avosetta 61 reevesi, Syrmaticus 260 regius, Cosmopsarus 263 Regulus regulus 33 reichenowi1, Corythaix 57-8 — , Pitta 262 , Tauraco livingstonii 58-60 XXXI reinwardtii, Selenidera 263 — , Turdoides 262 rhinoceros, Buceros 24 Rhinoplax 25 Rhipidura spilodera 35 rhodogaster, Pyrrhura 96, 263 Rhynchaceros 25 Rhynchocephalus brevirostris 264 — olivaceus 264 Rhynchocyclus brevirostris 7—8 richardsoni, Eubucco 144 riefferii, Pipreola 134 Riparia riparia 129-32 Riparia riparia eilata subsp. nov. 129-32 roborowskii, Kozlowia 227-9 robustus, Poicephalus 261 rodinogaster, Petroica 189 rogersi, Atlantisia 12—21, 199 rohui, Diomedea exulans 74 rolleti, Lybius 262 roosevelti, Celeus 146 roquettei, Phylloscartes 158 rosea, Petroica 187 rossae, Musophaga 261 Rostrhamus sociabilis 10 rothschildi, Diomedea exulans 74 — , Leucopsar 126 ruber, Laterallus 237 — ,Sphyrapicus 261 rubescens, Anthus 260 rubicilloides, Carpodacus 226-7, 231 rubidiventris, Parus 261 rubiginosus, Ploceus 263 rubinus, Pyrocephalus 67, 71—2 rubra, Crax 264 rubrifacies, Lybius 262 rubrifrons, Heterospingus 264 rubrocapilla, Pipra 263 ruckeri, Threnetes 239 rueppelli, Sylvia 246 rueppellii, Eupodotis 261 — _, Poicephalus 261 rufa, Alectoris 260 — ,Malacoptila 144—5, 147 rufescens, Calandrella 260 — _, Laniocera 48 — ,Parus 261 — _ , Pelecanus 37 ruficapilla, Grallaria 171 — , Vitia 35 ruficeps, Cisticola 262 ruficollis, Corvus 261 — ,Podiceps 14 — _,Sporophila 95 — ,Turdus 260 rufifrons, Spiloptila 262 rufigula, Gymnopithys 264 rufigularis, Hemitriccus 172 — ,Sclerurus 144, 147 rufimarginatus, Herpsilochmus 90, 147, rufinus, Buteo 260 rufipennis, Petrophassa 264 XXXIl rufitorques, Accipiter 35 rufiventer, Tachyphonus 263 rufiventris, Euphonia 263-4 — _, Poicephalus 261 — ,Prionops 262 rufocinnamomea, Mirafra 262 rufofuscus, Buteo 261 rufogularis, Acanthogenys 264 rufomarginatus, Euscarthmus 91, 96 rufopictus, Francolinus 261 rufopileatum, Pittasoma 264 rufoviridis, Galbula 263 rufus, Selasphorus 261 rupestris, Ptyonoprogne 260 rustica, Hirundo 129, 195, 245, 262 rutilus, Cypseloides 239 sabini, Larus 6d2 sacra, Egretta 35 Saltator atricollis 94 salvadorii, Eremomela 262 salvini, Mitu 263 sanctaemariae, Cymbilaimus 144 sandvicensis, Sterna 62 sanguinea, Cacatua 264 sanguinolenta, Certhia 185-8 — ,Myzomela 185-9 Sarcoramphus papa 10 sasin, Selasphorus 261 saturninus, Thamnomanes 144, 147 satyra, Tragopan 260 Saxicola leucura 260 — torquata 260 saxatilis, Monticola 230 scandens, Phyllastrephus 262 scalaris, Picoides 47, 261 schach, Lanius 261 schalowi, Tauraco 59-60 schistacea, Sporophila 48, 241 schistogynus, Thamnomanes 144, 147, 263 schlegeli, Bucorvus 23 schlegelii, Francolinus 261 Schoenicola platyura 41 schoenobaenus, Acrocephalus 244 schutti, Tauraco 261 scirpaceus, Acrocephalus 244 sclateri, Calandrella 262 — _, Lophophorus 260 Sclerurus albigularis 144, 146—7 — rufigularis 144, 147 scolopaceus, Eudynamys 184 Scolopax 177 scotica, Loxia 261 scotocerca, Cercomela 262 Scotopelia bouvieri 215 scotops, Eremomela 262 scutatus, Malimbus 263 Scytalopus latebricola 171 — magellanicus 171 — vicinior 171 Selasphorus rufus 261 — sasin 261 Selenidera culik 263 — gouldii 263 — nattereri 263 — reinwardtii 2163 semicincta, Malacoptila 263 semitorquata, Ficedula 261 semitorquatus, Lurocalis 46 senator, Lanius 41 senegala, Lagonosticta 274-5 sengalensis, Batis 262 — , Halcyon 261 — , Nectarinia 262 — ,Otus 217 — , Zosterops 262 senegaloides, Halcyon 261 senegalus, Poicephalus 261 septentrionalis, Cisticola bulliens subsp. nov. 55-6 serena, Pipra 270 Sericornis beccarii 264 — cautus 264 — magnirostris 264 — pyrrhopygius 264 Serinus atrogularis 263 — citrinipectus 263 — donaldsoni 263 — dorsostriatus 263 — flaviventris 263 — leucopygius 263 — mozambicus 263 — sulphuratus 263 serrana, Formicivora 165 sharpei, Turdoides 262 shelleyi, Riparia riparia 129-32 sibilatrix, Phylloscopus 33 siemiradski, Carduelis 173 signata, Cercotrichas 262 — _,Eremopterix 262 sillemi, Leucosticte sp. nov. 226-31 similis, Anthus 40 Simoxenops ucayalae 144 simplex, Camaroptera 262 Sitta castanea 261 — nagaensis 261 Sittasomus griseicapillus 7—9, 277 sladeni, Gymnobucco 262 smithersi, Cisticola chiniana 222-4 smithi, Hirundo 262 sociabilis, Rostrhamus 10 soederstromi, Catamenia analis 173 solitarius, Monticola 41 — ,Phigys 35 soloensis, Accipiter 260 somalica, Prinia 262 somalicus, Lanius 262 sordidulus, Contopus 261 soror, Batis 262 souzae, Lanius 262 sparsimfasciatus, Accipiter tachiro 50 speciosum, Conirostrum 277 spectabilis, Celeus 144 Sphyrapicus ruber 261 — varius 261 spillmanni, Scytalopus latebricola 171 spilodera, Rhipidura 35 spilogaster, Hieraaetus 39 spilonotus, Parus 261 Spiloptila clamans 262 — rufifrons 262 spinescens, Carduelis 173 spinoletta, Anthus 260 spinosus, Vanellus 261 Spizaetus ornatus 10 — tyrannus 10 Spizastur melanoleucus 43 Spizella passerina 121 — pusilla 121 spodiopygius, Aerodramus 35 Sporophila hypochroma 95 — hypoxantha 95 — nigrorufa 95 — ruficollis 95 — schistacea 48, 241 squamatus, Francolinus 261 — ,Picus 260 Stactolaema anchietae 254, 262 — leucotis 262 — whytii 254, 262 stairi, Gallicolumba 275-6 starki, Calandrella 262 stellatus, Caprimulgus 261 stentoreus, Acrocephalus 254, 260 Stercorarius parasiticus 238 — pomarinus 238 Sterna albifrons 62-3 — bergii35 — forsteri 45 — hirundo 62-3, 230 — minuta177 — paradisaea 62-3 — sandvicensis 62 — stolida 177 — sumatrana 35 stierlingi, Camaroptera 262 stolida, Sterna 177 stolidus, Anous 36 stolzmanni, Tyranneutes 264 Streptopelia capicola 261 — hypopyrrha 40 — orientalis 260 — turtur 40, 260 — vinacea 261 Streptoprocne zonaris 89 stresemanni, Hylexetastes 263 striata, Ardeola 81 — ,Muscicapa 63, 245 striaticeps, Dysithamnus 264 striaticolle, Idioptilon 277 striatus, Accipiter 236 — , Butorides 73, 81-5 — ,Colius 261 strigilatus, Ancistrops 144 Strix woodfordii 214~7 Sturnella 121, 254 — bellicosa 67, 71 sturninus, Sturnus 126 Sturnus burmannicus 128 XXXII — cineraceus 128 — contra 128 — melanopterus 126-8 — nigricollis 126-8 — _ sturninus 126 — unicolor 254, 261 — vulgaris 128, 254, 261 stygius, Asio 88, 239 suahelicus, Euplectes ardens 106 — , Passer 263 subaffinis, Phylloscopus 111-125, 261 — arcanus, Phylloscopus 120 subbuteo, Falco 39 subcinnamomea, Camaroptera 262 subflava, Prinia 262 subochracea, Drymophila devillei 148 subquatratus, Bycanistes 25 subsimilis, Tolmomyias flaviventris 90 Sula 177 — dactylatra 67-9, 71 — leucogaster 35-6 — nebouxii 67, 69, 71, 132-3 — sula 35-6, 69, 71 — variegata 132-3 sulcirostris, Crotophaga 70, 238 sulfuratus, Ramphastos 264 sulphuratus, Serinus 263 sulphureiventer, Neopelma 93 sumatrana, Sterna 35 sundevalli, Butorides 72 superciliaris, Ortalis 263 — , Petronia 263 swainsoni, Myiarchus 164, 277 swainsonii, Francolinus 261 — ,Polytelis 264 sylvestris, Tricholimnas 175-8 Sylvia 254 — althaea 260 — atricapilla 41 — borin 33 — curruca 244, 260 — leucophaea 185-8 — melanocephala 260 — minula 260 — mystacea 260 — rueppelli 246 Synallaxis brachyura 264 — erythrothorax 264 Syriacus, Picoides 260 Syrmaticus ellioti 260 — reevesi 260 tabuensis, Aplonis 35 — _,Prosopeia 35 tachiro, Accipiter 50—2, 261 Tachyphonus cristatus 93, 263 — luctuosus 149 — phoenicius 94 — rufiventer 263 taciturnus, Cisticola brunnescens subsp. nov. 219-21 taczanowskil, Riparia riparia 130 taeniopterus, Ploceus 263 tahitica, Hirundo 35 taitensis, Urodynamis 176—7 taivana, Motacilla 260 talatala, Nectarinia 262 tamatia, Bucco 89 ‘Tangara cyanicollis 94, 96, 146 — gyrola 264 — lavinia 264 — peruviana 163-4 — preciosa 163 Taraba major 277 Tauraco corythaix 58—60, 261 — fischeri 261 — livingstonii 57—60, 261 — persa 261 — _schalowi 59-60 — schutti 261 Tchagra australis 262 — jamesi 262 — tchagra 262 temminickii, Calidris 230 — , Cursorius 261 — , Tragopan 260 temporalis, Neochmia 187 tenebrosus, Turdoides 262 tenuirostris, Anous 177 — ,Cacatua 264 — , Calidris 134-5 — , Geositta 166-8 tenuirostris kalimayae, Geositta subsp. nov. 166-8 — ,Xenops 93 tephronotus, Lanius 261 — , Turdus 262 Terenura humeralis 144 terrestris, Cisticola juncidis 219 textrix, Cisticola 220 Thamnomanes caesius 144, 147, 263 — saturninus 144, 147 — schistogynus 144, 147, 263 Thamnophilus 278 — cryptoleucus 263 — doliatus 90 — nigrocinereus 263 — torquatus 90 thayeri, Larus 261 theklae, Galerida 260 thoracicus, Dactylortyx 237 Thraupis abbas 264 — palmarum 264 Threnetes ruckeri 239 Thripadectes ignobilis 170 — virgaticeps 170 Thryothorus ludovicianus 240 Tiaris olivacea 242 tibetana, Riparia riparia 130 Tigriornis leucolophus 215 Tilmatura dupontii 47 Tockus alboterminatus 25, 261 — _bradfieldi 25 — fasciatus 25, 261 — hemprichii 25 XXXIV Todirostrum 163 — cinereum 277 Tolmomyias assimilis 93 — flaviventris 90 tombacea, Galbula 263 tomentosa, Mitu 263 torquata, Saxicola 260 torquatus, Corvus 261 — _, Cracticus 264 — _, Lybtus 262 — _, Thamnophilus 90 toussenelii, Accipiter 50-2, 261 — _, Accipiter tachiro 51 townsendi, Dendroica 261 Tragopan blythi 260 — _melanocephalus 260 — _ satyra 260 — temminckii 260 Treron calva 261 — _ waalia 261 Tricholimnas conditicius 174-8 — lafresnayanus 175 — __ sylvestris 175-8 tricolor, Phalaropus 45 ‘Tringa erythropus 39, 62 — glareola 230 — nebularia 230 — ochropus 230 tristis, Acridotheres 35, 126-8 trivialis, Anthus 33, 63, 230 trochilirostris, Campylorhamphus 263 trochiloides, Phylloscopus 261 trochilus, Phylloscopus 33, 121 Trochocercus albiventris 262 — albonotatus 262 Troglodytes aedon 48, 71 troglodytes, Estrilda 263 Trogon comptus 264 — melanurus 264 Turacus hybridus 58 turatii, Laniarius 262 Turdoides bicolor 262 — gymnogenys 262 — hypoleucus 262 — jardinei 262 — leucopygius 262 — melanops 262 — plebejus 262 — _ reinwardtii 262 — sharpei 262 — _ tenebrosus 262 Turdus chiguanco 173 — fuscater 168 — libonyanus 262 — merula 27-33 — naumanni 260 — obscurus 260 — pallidus 260 — pelios 262 — philomelos 27-33 — poliocephalus 35 — ruficollis 260 — tephronotus 262 Turnix olivii 264 — varia 264 Turtur abyssinicus 261 — chalcospilos 261 turtur, Streptopelia 40, 260 Tyranneutes stolzmanni 264 — virescens 264 tyrannina, Cercomacra 263 Tyrannus dominicensis 240 tyrannus, Spizaetus 10 Tyto alba 35 ucayalae, Simoxenops 144 undatus, Celeus 263 undulata, Anas 37 unduliventer, Accipiter tachiro 50 unicolor, Cosmopsarus 263 — , Myadestes 240 — _,Myrmotherula 162 — , Paradoxornis 261 — ,Phrygilus 168 — ,Sturnus 254, 261 unirufus, Lipaugus 134 Upucerthia 168 Uraeginthus angolensis 263 — bengalus 263 urbica, Delichon 53-4, 260 Urocolius indicus 261 — macrourus 261 Urodynamis taitensis 176—7 uropygialis, Melanerpes 261 usticollis, Eremomela 262 vaalensis, Anthus 262 Vanellus armatus 261 — spinosus 261 vanikorensis, Myiagra 35 varia, Turnix 264 variegata, Sula 132-4 variegaticeps, Anabacerthia 239 variegatus, Merops 261 varius, Sphyrapicus 261 Veniliornis affinis 263 — cassini 263 — passerinus 277 ventralis, Phylloscartes 158-64 Vermivora 254 — chrysoptera 48, 241 — pinus 48, 241 — virginiae 241 versicolor, Amazilia 164-5 — , Lanius 263 verticalis, Nectarinia 262 vespertinus, Falco 39 vicinior, Scytalopus 171 Vidua 106 — interjecta 263 — paradisaea 263 vigorsi, Eupodotis 261 vilasboasi, Pipra 263 vinacea, Streptopelia 261 vindhiana, Aquila 151 violacea, Euphonia 263-4 XXXV , Musophaga 261 — , Nectarinia 262 — _, Nyctanassa 72 violaceus, Cyanocorax 264 virens, Contopus 261 — __, Dendroica 48 virescens, Butorides 81—5 — _,Phyllomyias 158 — ,Tyranneutes 264 virgaticeps, Thripadectes 170 virginiae, Vermivora 241 viridicata, Myiopagis 47 viridiceps, Tolmomyias flaviventris 90 viridis, Centropus 180-1 — __, Laterallus 88 — ,Picus 260 — __, Psophia 263 vitellinus, Ramphastos 264 Vitia ruficapilla 35 vitiensis, Clytorhynchus 35 — , Columba 35 vitiosus, Lophotriccus 263 Volatinia 95 vulgaris, Sturnus 128, 254, 261 vulpiniceps, Cisticola chiniana subsp. nov. 222-4 vulpinus, Buteo 254 vulturina, Pionopsitta 263 waalia, Treron 261 wahlbergi, Aquila 38 walteri, Leucosticte brandti 228 watkinsi, Grallaria 171 whytii, Stactolaema 254, 262 wilkinsi, Nesospiza 191—204 williami, Metallura 170 wolfi, Aramides 264 woosnami, Cisticola 262 woodfordii, Strix 214-7 wyatti, Asthenes 168 xanthogenys, Parus 261 xantholophus, Dendropicos 262 xantholora, Amazona 46 xanthopygius, Heterospingus 264 — _ , Pardalotus 264 Xenopipo atronitens 92 Xenops tenuirostris 93 Xipholena lamellipennis 263 — punicea 93, 263 Xiphorhynchus ocellatus 263 — pardalotus 263 yucatanicus, Nyctiphrynus 239 zamorae, Sclerurus albigularis 147 Zenaida auriculata 70, 72 — galapagoensis 72 zimmeri, Tolmomyias flaviventris 90 zonaris, Streptoprocne 89 zonarius, Barnardius 264 zonatus, Campylorhamphus 264 XXXVI Zonotrichia capensis 162, 168 Zosterops lateralis 35 — leucophrys 242 — pallida 262 zonurus, Crinifer 261 — senegalensis 262 CORRECTIONS TO TEXT Page 5, line 38: The Trust Deed specified in Schedule 1 was published in Bull. Brit. Orn. Club, 1985 105(1) pp. 3-7. Page 25, line 2: Penelopides not Penelepides Page 25, lines 1—9: manillae not minillae Page 25, lines 1—9: manilloe not minilloe Page 35, line 37: Mayrornis not Mayornis Page 35, line 51: cyaneovirens not cyanovirens Page 37, line 39: Macheiramphus not Macheirhamphus Page 38, line 10: cinerascens not cinereus Page 39, line 25: F. p. minor not P. p. minor Page 41, line 11: solitarius not solitaria Page 42, line 43: Oxyura dominica not dominicensis Page 44, line 17: exilis not exillis Page 45, line 14: melanotos not melanotus Page 62, lines 40-42: delete sentence ‘Furthermore, there is ... AFRING Data Bank).’ Page 95, line 11: Porphyrospiza not Pophyrospiza Page 99, line 3: camargoi averages smaller (not larger) Page 101, lines 20-21: leucophrus not leucophrys Page 110, line 5: newtoni not newtonii Page 137, line 7: Tuesday 19 May 1992 not Tuesday 17 May 1992 Page 178, lines 43-44: should read: . . . 1928, being simply a mislabelled immature specimen of T. sylvestris (Sclater, 1870). The former name should thus fall back into synonymy. Page 236, line 8: Oxyura dominica not dominicensis Page 264, line 34: Chlamydera not Chlamydochera Printed in Great Britain by Henry Ling Ltd., at the Dorset Press, Dorchester, Dorset BULLETIN of the BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ CLUB SCIENTIFIC INDEX to Volume 112A 1992 COMPILED BY DR J. F. MONK il Corrections to text: Page 90, line 5 of Table 2. Agelastes not Agelestes. Page 96, line 10. Treron not Treton. Page 263, line 23. thalassina not thalassima. Page 295, line 3 from bottom. gualaquizae not gualaguizae. INDEX TO SCIENTIFIC NAMES (Compiled by J. F. Monk) The generic and specific and subspecific names of all birds mentioned in the text are included. aalge, Uria 133, 178, 183 abingoni, Campethera 92 Accipiter gentilis 137 — nisus 176 Acrocephalus 261 — baeticatus guiersi 218 — familiaris 182 — rufescens senegalensis 218 Acryllium 96 Actenoides concretus 263 acuminata, Calidris 272 Adelarus 265 adelberti, Nectarinia 210 aedon, Troglodytes 28 Aegithalos caudatus 140 — concinnus 201 Aenigmatolimnas 96 aequatoriale, Apaloderma 211 Aesalon 264 aethiopicus, Laniarius 79 aethiops, Myrmecocichla 94 — , Threskiornis 164 afra, Eupodotis 84 , Nectarinia 281 afraoides, Eupodotis 81, 84 Afropavo congensis 212 Agapornis pullaria 213 Agelastes 90 — niger 212 ahantensis, Francolinus 212 Alaemon 91 Alauda 96 alba, Egretta 164, 263 — ,Motacilla 124, 125 albellus, Mergellus 263 — ,Mergus 263 albertinum, Glaucidium 272, 273, 298 albescens, Certhilauda 76, 84, 92 albicollis, Merops 91 — _, Zonotrichia 22 albifacies, Todirostrum 305 albifrons, Amblyospiza 77 — ,Sterna 265 albipectus/cleaveri, Trichastoma 211 albiventris, Cinclodes fuscus 304 albofasciata, Chersomanes 76, 92 albogularis, Francolinus 214 Alcedo atthis 160 — leucogaster 214 Alectoris 90 — _ barbara 89 Alethe 91, 93 — diademata 211 — poliocephala 214 — poliophrys 93 alixii, Clytoctantes 291 Allasma northi 299, 300 alpestris, Eremophila 125 alpina, Tringa 128 Amaurornis 96 Amazona farinosa farinosa 287 — kawalli 286, 287 Amblyospiza albifrons maxima 77 americana, Hirundo riparia 125 americanus, Otus brachyotus 125 Ammomanes 91 amoena, Passerina 28 amsterdamensis, Diomedea 268, 269-70, 298 Anas 263, 264 — _ sparsa 263 Andropadus, 91, 93 — latirostris 215 — virens 214 angolensis, Oryzoborus 227 — _, Phoeniculus purpureus 78 — , Pitta 214 annae, Cettia 278 — _,Psamathia 278 annamarulae, Melaenornis 218 Anous 96 anselli, Centropus 211, 212 Anser 261 ansorgei, T'reron calva 78 Anthreptes fraseri 211 — gabonicus 213 Anthus, 76, 91 — _ cervinus 93 hoeschi 81 leucophrys 80 nyassae 75 similis 75 — venturi 182 Apalis bamendae 221, Fig. 6 goslingi 221, Fig. 6 porphyrolaema 221 ruddi 80 rufogularis 211, 221, Fig. 6 sharpii 221 bamendae 221 goslingi 221 sharpii 221 Apaloderma aequatoriale 211 narina 209 Aphelocoma coerulesens coerulescens 22 apiata, Mirafra 92 apricaria, Pluvialis 133 Aptenodytes forsteri 182 Apus 90 melba 263 Arcanator 93, 96 Ardea 165 cinerea 164 monicae 217 novaehollandiae 164 purpurea bournei 217 ardens, Pseudochloroptila gurneyi 77 Ardeotis 96 aridicolus, Lanius collaris 81 Arquatella 265 arnotti, Myrmecocichla 94 Artamus 40 ashi, Mirafra 274, 275, 298 asiaticus, Xenorhynchus 164 Asio 96 Asthenes 289, 290 luizae 193, 289, 290, 298 Asturina nitida 263 aterrimus, Phoeniculus 213 Athene 96 atricapilla, Estrilda 210 atricapillus, Otus 288 , Parus 24 , Philydor 290, 305 atriceps, Thryothorus euophrys 296 Atricilla 265 atrirostris, Oryzoborus 227 atrogularis, Clytoctantes 291, 298 atthis, Alcedo 160 audouinii, Larus 91 auguralis, Buteo 213 aurantius, Chaetops 77 auratus, Colaptes 135 australis, Hyliota 79 Automolus roraimae 290, 304, 305 badiceps, Cettia ruficapilla 278 Baeopogon 91 baeticatus, Acrocephalus 218 Balaeniceps 31 il balsaci, Platalea leucorodia 217 bamendae, Apalis, 221, Fig. 6 ; sharpii 221 barbara, Alectoris 89 barbarus, Otus 287, 288 barbatus, Pycnonotus 83 bassana, Sula 263 bassanus, Morus 178, 263 batesi, Caprimulgus 273 , Ploceus 213 Batis fratrum 80 minor 213 minulla 280 molitor 83 occultus 280, 298 occulta 280 poensis 280 occulta 280 pririt 83 soror 79, 83 baudinianus, Dromaius 181 benguellensis, Lamprotornis mevesii 78 bernicla, Branta 137 bewickii, Thryomanes 28 bifasciatus, Campicoloides 81 bilineatus, Pogoniulus 24 bispecularis, Glandarius 124 blakei, Grallaria 294, 298 Bleda 91, 93, 210 canicapilla moreli 218 eximia 214 syndactyla 215 Bombycilla cedrorum 137 garrulus 137 bonasia, Tetrastes 134 Bostrychia 96 Botaurus 165 poiciloptilus 164 bournei, Ardea purpurea 217 brachyotus, Otus 125 brachypterus, Tachyeres 285, 286 brachyura, Camaroptera 79, 80 bradfieldi, Mirafra sabota 76 Bradypterus grandis 213 victorini 81 Branta 261 bernicla 137 brevicaudata, Camaroptera 79, 80 brevipes, Monticola 82 breweri, Merops 210 britannicus, Sturnus vulgaris 14 brunnescens, Cisticola 218 Bubo 96 virginianus 128 Bucorvus 96 Buettikoferella 278 Burhinus magnirostris 263 burnieri, Ploceus 282, 298 burra, Certhilauda erythrochlamys 76, 84 Buteo auguralis 213 nitidus 263 trizonatus 81 Bycanistes fistulator 214 Cabalus modestus 182 Cacatua 8 caerulescens, Eupodotis 81 caeruleus, Parus 28, 204 caesia, Emberiza 124 — ,Sitta 124,131 cafer, Colaptes 135 — ,Promerops 77, 81 caffra, Cossypha 81, 93 caillautii, Campethera 209 Calamonastes 75 Calandrella 76, 91 Calidris 264 — acuminata 272 — ferruginea 182, 272 — himantopus 263 — melanotos 271, 272 — paramelanotos 268, 271, 272, 298 calliope, Luscinia 125 calva, Treron 78 calvus, Geronticus 81 — ,Gymnobucco 211 Calyptocichla 96 camelus, Struthio 181 cameronensis, Zoothera 302 Camaroptera 84 — _ brachyura 79, 80 — brevicaudata 79, 80 — constans 80 campbelli, Malurus 278, 279, 298 —— ines —— i prays 19 Campephaga 96 Campethera 90, 92, 94 — abingon: 92 — carlauti 209 — notata 77 — punctuligera 92 Campicoloides bifasciatus 81 Camptorhynchus labradorius 182 canadensis, Dendragapus 134 canaria, Serinus 111 canicapilla, Bleda 218 caniceps, Carduelis 136 Canirallus 90 caniviridis, Zosterops pallidus 83 canorus, Cuculus 178, 219, 222 canus, Larus 265 capense, Glaucidium 220, 272, 273 capensis, Euplectes 77, 82 — _, Francolinus 89 — _,Pycnonotus 83 — ,Smithornis 213 capicola, Streptopelia 84 capistrata, Oenanthe opp. 225, 237-49 capitale, Todirostrum 305 Caprimulgus 90 — batesi 273 — clarus 300 — climacurus 213 [= eximiusi273 — pectoralis 299, 300 — prigoginei 273, 298 — rufigena 209 carbonaria, Cercomacra 293 Carduelis caniceps 135, 138 — carduelis caniceps 137, 138 — — carduelis 137, 138 caryocatactes, Nucifraga 134 carolinensis, Parus 24 carrikeri, Grallaria 293, 298 Casmerodius albus 263 caspia, Sterna 265 cassini, Malimbus 219 — _, Neafrapus 209 cassini/scutatus, Malimbus 211 castaneoptera, Cettia ruficapilla 278 castaneum, Glaucidium 272, 273 castanops, Ploceus 282, 283 Casuarius 172 caudatus, Aegithalos 140 — , Theristicus 164 cayana, Tangara 296 ceciliae, Phylloscartes 295, 298 cedrorum, Bombycilla 137 celebensis, Rallus 270 Centropus 90 — anselli/leucogaster 211 — monachus 213 — neumanni 211, 212 Ceratogymna 90, 92, 95 — elata211 Cercococcyx 90 Cercomacra carbonaria 293 — ferdinandi 293 — manu 194, 293, 298 — melanaria 293 — nigricans 293 Cercomela 91 Cercotrichas leucophrys 94 — paena 94 — quadrivirgata 93 — signata 93 Certhia 133 Certhilauda 91 — albescens 76, 84, 92 — _curvirostris 76, 92 — _erythroclamys burra 76 cervinus, Anthus, 93 Cettia 278 — annae 278 — carolinae 277, 278, 298 — diphone 278 — fortipes 278 — — davidiana 278 — ruficapilla 278 — — badiceps 278 — — castaneoptera 278 — parens 278 — _ seebohmi 278 — vulcania 278 — — everetti 278 Ceuthmocares 96 Chaetops aurantius 77 — frenatus 77 Chaetura leucopygialis 263 chalybea, Nectarinia 81, 281 chalybeata, Vidua 285 Charadrius 76, 96 — morinellus 263 charlottae, Hypsipetes 263 Chaulelasmus 264 Chersomanes 91 — albofasciata 76, 92 Chersophilus 91 chionoptera, Diomedea 270 Chlamydotis 90 — undulata 91 Chlidonias 90 chloris, Halcyon 263 — ,Hemimacronyx 81 — , Todiramphus 263 Chlorocichla 96 chloronotus, Phylloscopus 301 Chloropeta natalensis 213 choliba, Otus 288 Chroicocephalus 265 Chrysococcyx 96 chrysogaster, Gerygone 280 chrysops, Meliphaga 281 chrysoptera, Daphaenositta 26 — _, Vermivora 28 Cichladusa 93, 96 Cichlornis llaneae 278, 298 — whitneyi278 — — grosvenori 278 — — turipavae 278 — — whitney 278 Ciconia 165 — ciconia 160, 164 — nigra 160, 164 Cinclodes 304 — fuscus 304 — — albiventris 304 — — olrogi 304 — — riojanus 304 — — rufus 304 — — _ tucumanus 304 — — yzurietae 304 — olrogi 304 — oustaleti 304 Cinclus cinclus 166 cinerea, Ardea 164, 217 Cinnyris 81 Circus cyaneus 137 — — hudsonius 16 Cisticola brunnescens mbangensis 218 — dorsti 220,222 — ruficeps 220, 222 — — _ guinea 220 — — mongalla 220 citrinipectus, Serinus 80 Clamator 96 clarkii, Otus 287 clarus, Caprimulgus 300 cleaveri, Trichastoma 211 climacurus, Caprimulgus 213 Clytoctantes 291 — alixii 291, 298 — atrogularis 291 Coccothraustes vespertina 263 coerulescens, Aphelocoma coerulescens 22 Colaptes auratus 135 — cafer 135 colchicus, Phasianus 166 Colius 90 — striatus 213 collaris, Lanius 81 Columba 46, 96 columbiana, Nucifraga 134 columbianus, Otus 288, 289 concretus, Actenoides 263 — , Halcyon 263 congensis, Afropavo 212 — , Nectarinia 213 congica, Riparia 213 conirostris, Geospiza 100, 102 constans, Camaroptera brachyura 80 coqui, Francolinus 214 Coracias 90 Coracina 91 cornix, Corvus 24, 124, 131, 136 corone, Corvus 24, 124, 131, 136, 138, 140 Corvus 29 — cornix 24, 124, 131, 136 — corone 24, 124, 131, 136, 138, 140 — — cornix 137 — — corone 137, 138 corythaix, Tauraco 81 Cossypha 91, 93 — caffra 81, 93 — dichroa 93 — heinrich 93 — heuglini 93 — humeralis 93 — natalensis 93 Cossyphicula 93, 96 Coturnix 90, 166 crassirostris, Oryzoborus 227 Crax estudilloi 193, 302 — fasciolata 303 Crex 90 Crinifer piscator 213 Criniger 91 criniger, Hypsipetes 263 — _, Tricholestes 263 crissalis, Pipilo 23 Crocethia 265 Crotophaga 68 crumeniferus, Leptoptilos 164 cryptoxanthus, Poicephalus 84 cucullata, Tangara 296 cucullatus, Ploceus 166 Cuculus 90 — canorus 178, 219, 222 — gularis 219 Cursorius 76, 90 curvirostra, Loxia 134 curvirostris, Certhilauda 76, 92 cyanea, Passerina 28 cyaneus, Circus 16, 137 — , Parus 28 Cyanocorax morio 263 cyanolaema, Nectarinia 209 Cypsiurus 90 Dafila 264 damarensis, Phoeniculus 78 — ,Treron calva 78 Daphoenositta chrysoptera 26 — leucocephala 26 darnaudi, Trachyphonus 32 daurica, Hirundo 93, 275 davidiana, Cettia fortipes 278 decaocto, Streptopelia 219, Fig. 2 degens, Tockus erythrorhynchus 80 degodiensis, Mirafra 275 Delichon 91 — urbica 275 Dendragapus canadensis 134 — falcipennis 134 Dendropicos 90 — elliotti 209 — goertae 213 diademata, Alethe 211 dichroa, Cossypha 93 dicrocephalus, Ploceus 282 Diglossa 58, 66, 232 Diglossopis 58, 66 Diomedea amsterdamensis 268, 269-70, 298 — chionoptera 270 — epomophora 269, 270 — exulans 269, 270 — amsterdamensis 269-70 Hane! Cettia 278 Dolospingus 233 domesticus, Passer 134 dominica, Pluvialis 133 dorsti, Cisticola 220, 222 Dromaius baudinianus 181 dubois, Ploceus melanocephalus 213 Dupetor flavicollis 263 edwardsi, Lophura 299 Egretta 165 — alba 164, 263 — sacra 164 RSME, Thryothorus 296, 298 — euophrys 296 eisentrauti, Melignomon 218, 274, 280, 298 elata, Ceratogymna 211 elliotti, Dendropicos 209 Emberiza caesia 124 — hortulana 124 epomophora, Diomedea 269 Eremalauda 91 Eremomela turneri 209 Eremophila 96 — alpestris 125 Eremopterix 76, 91 Ereunetes 264 Erithacus 91 — rubecula 93, 207 Erolia 264 erythrocephalus, Trachyphonus 32 al erythroclamys, Certhilauda 76, 84 erythrogaster, Phoenicurus 124 erythrophthalmus, Pipilo 18 Erythropus 264 erythrorhynchus, Tockus 80 erythrothorax, Stiphrornis 214 Esacus magnirostris 263 Estrilda atricapilla 210 — nonnula 210 estudilloi, Crax 193, 302 etchecopari, Glaucidium capense 220 Eudromias morinellus 263 Eumyias indigo 263 — thalassina 263 Eunetta 264 euophrys, Thryothorus 295 Euplectes capensis 77, 82 sels 90, Fig. 1 afra 84 — afraoides 81, 84 — caerulescens 81 — ruficrista 219, Fig. 1 gindiana 219, 222, Fig. 1 ruficrista 219 savilei 219, 222, Fig. 1 europaea, Sitta 124, 131, 140, 206 eurynome, Phaethornis 304 eurynome 304 Euryptila 75 eurystomina, Pseudocalyptomena 93 — _, Pseudochelidon 87—96, 213 Eurystomus 90, 94 — glaucurus 92 — gularis 92 everetti, Cettia vulcania 278 evreinowi, Oenanthe 239, 240, 243, 244, 245 excubitor, Lanius 137 eximia, Bleda 214 eximius, Caprimulgus 273 exulans, Diomedea 269-70 falcinellus, Plegadis 222 falcipennis, Dendragapus 134 Falco 264 — rusticolus 133 — tinnunculus japonicus 124 familiaris, Acrocephalus 182 fasciolata, Crax 303 ferdinandi, Cercomacra 293 ferruginea, Calidris 182, 272 ferrugineus, Laniarius 79 Ficedula 205, 207 finschii, Oenanthe 240 fischeri, Ploceus melanocephalus 283 — , Vidua 20 fistulator, Bycanistes 214 flava, Motacilla 125 — , Tangara 296 flavala, Hemixos 263 — ,Hypsipetes 263 flavicollis, Dupetor 263 — _, lxobrychus 263 flavigula, Manorina 19 fluviatilis, Prinia 220, 222 formicivora, Myrmecocichla 94 forsteri, Aptenodytes 182 fortipes, Cettia 278 fortis, Geospiza 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103 Francolinus 89, 90, 212 ahantensis 212 albogularis 214 capensis 89 coqui 214 lathami 89, 212 lavaillantoides 76, 89 squamatus 212 fraseri, Anthreptes 211 fratrum, Batis 80 frenata, Meliphaga 281 frenatus, Chaetops 77 , Lichenostomus 281 fringillaris, Spizocorys 81 frontalis, Sitta 204 Fulica 96 fuliginosa, Geospiza 99, 102 , Nectarinia 211 funerea, Vidua 284 fusca, Melanitta 137 fuscus, Cinclodes 304 , Pipilo 23 gabonicus, Anthreptes 213 galbula, Ploceus 166 Galerida 91 Gallinula 96 Gallirallus 271 okinawae 270, 271 torquatus 270 Gallus 166 Garrulus bispecularis 124 glandarius 124, 125, 133 garrulus, Bombycilla 137 Gelochelidon 96 gentilis, Accipiter 137 Geocolaptes 85, 90, 95 olivaceus 77, 84, 92 georgiana, Melospiza 23 Geospiza 101 conirostris 100, 102 fortis 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103 fuliginosa 99, 102 magnirostris 99, 102, 103 scandens 99, 100, 102, 103 Geronticus 89 calvus 81 Gerygone chrysogaster 280 magnirostris 280 ruficauda 280, 298 gigas, Patagona 301 gindiana, Eupodotis ruficrista 219, 222, Fig. 1 glandarius, Garrulus 124, 125, 133 Glareola 90 Glaucidium 90 albertinum 272, 273, 298 capense 272, 273 etchecopari 220 castaneum 272, 273 sjoestedti 210 tephronotum 211 Glaucis hirsuta 303 glaucurus, Eurystomus 92 goertae, Dendropicos 213 goslingi, Apalis 221, Fig. 6 3 sharpii 221 Grallaria blakei 294, 298 carrikeri 293, 298 rufula 294 Grallaricula lineifrons 294 ochraceifrons 294, 298 peruviana 294 granatinus, Uraeginthus 78 grandis, Bradypterus 213 graueri, Zoothera cameronensis 302 grayi, Malurus 279 grisegena, Podiceps 137 griseiceps, Serpophaga 305 griseocephalus, Mesopicos 80 gryphus, Vultur 163, 164 grzimeki, Threnetes 303 gualaquizae, Phylloscartes 295 guatemalae, Otus 288 guiersi, Acrocephalus baeticatus 218 guinea, Cisticola ruficeps 220 Guira 68 gularis, Eurystomus 92 , Cuculus 219 gurneyi, Promerops 77 Guttera 90, 212 plumifera 212 Gymnobucco 96 calvus 211 peli/sladeni 211 Halcyon 90 chloris 263 concretus 263 Haliaeetus vocifer 32 hartlaubi, Tockus 211 hatinhensis, Lophura 193, 299 heinei, Tangara 297 heinrichi, Cossypha 93 Heliodoxa 44 Hemimacronyx chloris 81 Hemixos flavala 263 herero, Mirafra sabota 76 Herpsilochmus 292 motacilloides 292 parkeri 291, 292, 298 pileatus parkeri 291 Hesperiphona vespertina 263 Heteromirafra ruddi 81 Heteropygia 264 heuglini, Cossypha 93 Hierofalco 264 Himantopus himantopus leucocephalus novaezeelandiae 19 himantopus, Calidris 263 — _,Muicropalama 263 Himantornis 90 hindwoodi, Meliphaga 194, 281, 298 Hippolais 261 — icterina 124 — polyglotta 124 hirsuta, Glaucis 303 hirsutus, Lybius 214 Hirundo 87, 91 — daurica 93, 275 — perdita 275, 276, 298 — riparia americana 125 — rustica 93, 275 — spilodera 92, 275, 276 hispaniolensis, Passer 134 hoeschi, Anthus 81 hortulana, Emberiza 124 hoyi, Otus 288, 298 — , —atricapillus 288 hudsonius, Circus cyaneus 16 humeralis, Cossypha 93 Hydrocoelus 265 Hyliota australis inornata 79 hylobius, Philydor 290, 304, 305 Hypargos margaritatus 80 — niveoguttatus 80 hyperboreus, Larus 265 hypererythrus, Philydor 290 Hypochera 223 — incognita 193 — lorenzi193 hypogrammica, Stachyris 277 Hypsipetes charlottae 263 — criniger 263 — flavala 263 — malaccensis 263 ibadanensis, Malimbus 219 Ichthyaetus 265 icterina, Hippolais 124 icterinus, Phyllastrephus 276 impennis, Pinguinus 178, 182 imperialis, Lophura 299 incognita, Hypochera 193 Indicator 90 indigo, Eumyias 263 — _,Muscicapa 263 indigoticus, Scytalopus 294, 295 ingens, Otus 288, 289 inornata, Hyliota australis 79 — ,Lophura 299 insignis, Phaethornis malaris 304 — ,Rallus 271 intermedius, Ploceus 282 Tole olivacea 263 Irania 91 irroratus, Lybius torquatus 80 italiae, Passer 134 Ixobrychus flavicollis 263 — minutus 222 Ixonotus 91 Ixos malaccensis 263 jacksoni, Ploceus 282, 283 japonicus, Flaco tinnunculus 124 Jubula 96 Jynx 90, 92, 94 — ruficollis 92 — torquilla 92 kaokoensis, Monticola brevipes 82 katangae, Ploceus 283 kawalli, Amazona 287, 288, 298 kibalensis, Zoothera 302 krueperi, Sitta 302 kuehi, Rallus 270 kwalensis, Nyctisyrigmus 299, 300 labradorius, Camptorhynchus 182 Lagonosticta larvata 285 — rara 221, 284 — rubricata 284 — rufopicta 284, 285 — senegala 285 Lagopus 252, 253, 254 Lamprotornis 40 — mevesii benguellensis 78 — — mevesii 78 — — violacior 78 Laniarius aethiopicus 79 — ferrugineus 79 — liberatus 193, 222 Lantus collaris aridicolus 81 — — marwitzi 81 — — subcoronatus 81 — excubitor 137 — ludovicianus 137 lanyoni, Phylloscartes 295, 298 Larus 90, 261 — audouinii 91 — _canus 265 — hyperboreus 265 — marinus 265 — minutus 265 — _sabini 263 larvata, Lagonosticta 221 larvaticola, Vidua 221, 284, 285, 298 lathami, Francolinus 89, 212 latirostris, Andropadus 214 latistriata, Stachyris 194, 276, 277, 298 ledanti, Sitta 302 Leipoa 166 Leptopoecile sophiae 201, 203 Leptoptilos crumeniferus 164 Lerwa lerwa 253 leucocephala, Daphoenositta chrysoptera 26 leucocephalus, Himantopus himantopus 19 — , Tachyeres 285, 286, 298 leucogaster, Alcedo 214 — _,Centropus 211 leucolepis, Phyllastrephus 218, 276, 298 leucomelas, Tockus 80 leucophrys, Anthus 80 — _, Cercotrichas 94 leucoptera, Loxia 134 — ,Poliospiza 81 leucopygialis, Chaetura 263 — _, Rhaphidura 263 leucorodia, Platalea 164, 217, 222 leucura, Oenanthe 94 leucurus, Threnetes 303 levaillantoides, Francolinus 76, 89 leytensis, Micromacronus 277 liberatus, Laniarius 193, 222 Lichenostomus frenatus 281 limarius, Rallus torquatus 270 lincolni, Melospiza 23 lineifrons, Grallaricula 294 Lioptilus nigricapillus 81 livingstonii, Tauraco 78 llaneae, Cichlornis 278, 298 Lobotos 96 loehkeni, Threnetes 303 leucurus 303 lomvia, Uria 133 longipes, Thryothorus euophrys 296 Lophophorus 253 Lophura edwardsi 299 — hatinhensis 193, 299 — imperialis 299 — inornata 299 — _ swinhoei 299 lorenzi, Hypochera 193 Loxia curvirostra 134 — leucoptera 134 — pytyopsittacus 134 Loxigilla 233 lucidiventris, Lybius torquatus 80 ludovicianus, Lanius 137 lugens, Motacilla 124 — , Oenanthe 94, 248 lugentoides, Oenanthe 248 lugubris, Motacilla 124 — _,Oenanthe 248 — ,Poeoptera 213 luizae, Asthenes 193, 289, 290, 298 Lullula 96 Luscinia 91 — calliope 125 — luscinia 134 — megarhynchos 133/4 — suecica 125, 207 Lybius 90 — hirsutus 214 — torquatus irroratus 80 lucidiventris 80 vivacens 80 Macrodipteryx 90 — vexillarius 209 Macronyx 91 macrorhynchus, Tauraco 211 macroura, Vidua 20 maculata, Terenura 292 magna, Sturnella 28 magnirostris, Burhinus 263 — ,Esacus 263 1x — , Geospiza 99., 102, 103 — _, Gerygone 280 major, Carduelis 136 — ,Parus 124, 204 — ,Picoides 20 — ,Picus 133 malaccensis, Hypsipetes 263 — , Ixos 263 malaris, Phaethornis 304 malimbicus, Merops 91, 213 Malimbus 210 — cassini 219 — cassini/scutatus 211 — ibadanensis 219 Malurus 279 — campbelli 278, 279, 298 — grayi279 campbelli 279 Manorina flavigula 19 — melanotis 19 manu, Cercomacra 194, 293, 298 maranhaoensis, Phaethornis 304 Mareca 263, 264 margarettae, Phaethornis 303 — , — malaris 303, 304 margaritatus, Hypargos 80 — ,Trachyphonus 32 marinus, Larus 265 marshalli, Otus 287, 289, 293 martinica, Porphyria 263 — _, Porphyrula 263 marwitzi, Lanius collaris 81 maxima, Amblyospiza albifrons 77 — , Streptopelia semitorquata 77, 78 maximiliani, Oryzoborus 227 mbangensis, Cisticola brunnescens 218 Megalurulus 278 Megapodius 182 megarhynchos, Luscinia 134 Melaenornis annamarulae 218 Melananas 263 melanaria, Cercomacra 293 Melanitta fusca 137 melanocephalus, Ploceus 213, 283 melanopygia, Telecanthura 209 melanotis, Manorina 19 melanotos, Calidris 271, 272 melanura, Pyrrhura 287 melba, Apus 263 — , Tachymarptis 263 Meleagris 166 meleagris, Numida 213 Melignomon 96, 218 — eisentrauti 218, 274, 280, 298 — zenkeri 218, 274 Meliphaga 281 — chrysops 281 — frenata 281 — hindwoodi 194, 281, 298 — obscura 281 — subfrenata 281 melodia, Melospiza 22 Melospiza georgiana 23 — lincolni 23 — melodia 22 Mergellus albellus 263 Mergus albellus 263 Meridionalis, Parus 132, 133 Merops 90 — albicollis 91 — breweri 210 — malimbicus 91, 213 — orientalis 91 merula, Turdus 161 Mesopicos griseocephalus 80 mevesii, Lamprotornis mevesii 78 meyerdeschauenseei, Tangara 296, 298 meyeri, Poicephalus 84 Micromacronus leytensis 277 Micropalama himantopus 263 migratorius, T‘urdus 24 Mimus 120 minor, Batis 213 minulla, Batis 280 minutus, Ixobrychus 222 — _, Larus 265 Muirafra 91, 275 — apiata 92 — ashi 274, 275, 298 — degodiensis 275 — _ sabota bradfieldi 76 — — herero 76 — sharpei 275 — sidamoensis 275 — _ somalica 275 — williamsi 274 Mniotilta varia 128 modestus, Cabalus 182 Modulatrix 93, 96 molitor, Batis 83 monachus, Centropus 213 mongalla, Cisticola ruficeps 220 monichae, Ardea cinerea 217 montanus, Parus 132, 133 Monticola 81, 89 —_ brevipes brevipes 82 — — kaokoensis 82 monticolus, Parus 124, 133 Montifringilla 66 moreli, Bleda canicapilla 218 morinellus, Eudromias 263 — _, Charadrius 263 morio, Cyanocorax 263 — _ , Onychognathus 82 — _, Psilorhinus 263 Morus bassanus 178, 263 Motacilla 91 — alba 124, 125 — flava 125 — lugens 124 — lugubris 124 moussieri, Phoenicurus 94 munda, Serpophagus 305 — , — = subscristata 305 muraria, Tichodroma 204, 206 Muscicapa 205, 207 — indigo 263 — strophiata 206 — tessmanni 209 — thalassina 263 Myrmecocichla 89, 91, 93 — aethiops 94 — _ arnotti 94 — formicivora 94 Myrmotherula 292 nabouroup, Onychognathus 82 Namibornis 91 Napothera rabori 277 — _ sosorgonensis 277 narina, Apaloderma 209 natalensis, Chloropeta 213 — _,Cossypha 93 nattereri, Phaethornis 304 naumanni, Centropus 211, 212 Neafrapus 90 — cassini 209 Nectarinia adelberti 210 — afra 281 — chalbea 81, 281 — congensis 213 — _ cyanolaema 209 — fuliginosa 211 — neergaardi 80 — regia 281 — rufipennis 280, 281, 298 — violacea 81 neergaardi, Nectarinia 80 neglecta, Sturnella 28 Neocossyphus 91, 93 — poensis 93 Neoctantes 291 Neorhynchus 225, 227 Neotis 90 Nettia 264 neumanni, Centropus 211 niger, Agelastes 212 nigra, Ciconia 160, 164 nigricans, Pycnonotus 83 — ,Cercomacra 293 nigricapillus, Lioptilus 81 nigrirostris, Phaethornis 304 nigrorum, Stachyris 276 Niltava 205 nisus, Accipiter 176 nitida, Asturina 263 nitidus, Buteo 263 niveoguttatus, Hypargos 80 nonnula, Estrilda 210 northi, Allasma 299, 300 notata, Campethera 77 novaehollandiae, Ardea 164 novaesi, Philydor 290, 298 novaezeelandiae, Himantopus 19 nuchalis, Grallaria 293 Nucifraga caryocatactes 134 — _,columbiana 134 Numida 90 — meleagris 213 nuttallii, Picoides 24 nuttingi, Oryzoborus 227 nyassae, Anthus 75 Nyctanassa violacea 263 Nycticorax 165 — nycticorax 164 — violacea 263 Nyctisyrigmus kwalensis 299, 300 obscura, Meliphaga 281 ocai, Pipilo 18 occulta, Batis 280 occultus, Batis 280, 298 ochraceifrons, Grallaricula 294, 298 Oedistoma 67 Oena 96 Oenanthe 91, 94 — capistrata opp. 225, 237-49 — evreinowi 239, 240 — finschii 240 — leucura 94 — lugens 94, 248 — lugentoides 248 — lugubris 248 — opistholeuca opp. 225, 237-49 — picata opp. 225, 237-49 pileata 94 Gkinaw ae, Rallus 270-71, 298 = ,Gallirallus 270 Glisdeen! Tole 263 olivaceus, Geocolaptes 77, 84, 92 — ,Turdus 81 olrogi, Cinclodes 304 fuscus 304 Onychognathus morio 82 — ,nabouroup benguellensis 82 Opisthocomus 50, 54, 68 opistholeuca, Oenanthe opp. 225, 237 orbitalis, Phylloscartes 295 orcesi, Pyrrhura 194, 286, 298 orientalis, Merops 91 Oreophilais robertsi 80 Ortygocichla 278 Ortyxelos 96 Oryzoborus D2], 233 angolensis 227 — atrirostris 227 — crassirostris 227 — maximiliani 227 — nuttingi 227 Otis 96 — tarda 182 Otus 96 — atricapillus 288 hoyi 288 — barbarus 287, 288 — brachyotus americanus 125 — _ choliba 288 — clarkii 287 — colombianus 288, 289 petersoni 288, 289 — guatemalae 288 — hoyi 288, 298 Xi — ingens 288m, 289 — marshalli 287, 288, 298 — petersoni 287, 288, 298 — sanctaecatarinae 288 — _scops 220, 222 senegalensis 220 — __watsonii 288 oustaleti, Cinclodes 304 Oxylophus 96 Pachycoccyx 96 pacificus, Pareudiastes 182 Paecilonetta 264 paena, Cercotrichas 94 Pagophila 265 pallidus, Zosterops 83 palustris, Parus 132, 133 paramelanotos, Calidris 268, 271, 272, 298 parens, Cettia 278 Pareudiastes pacificus 182 parkeri, Herpsilochmus 291, 292, 298 — , — pileatus 291 Parus 133, 261 — _ atricapillus 24 — caeruleus 28, 104 — carolinensis 24 — cyaneus 28 — major 124, 204 — Meridionalis 132, 133 — montanus 132, 133 — monticolus 124 — palustris 132, 133 — Salicarius 132, 133 Passer 66 — domesticus 134 — hispaniolensis 134 — italiae 134 Passerculus sandwichensis 25 princeps 25 rostratus 25 Passerina 20 — amoena 28 — cyanea 28 patachonicus, Tachyeres 285 Patagona sp. 301 — gigas 301 pectoralis, Caprimulgus 299, 300 peli/sladeni, Gymnobucco 211 Pelidna 265 perdita, Hirundo 275, 276, 298 Perdix 166 persa, Tauraco 211 peruviana, Grallaricula 294 petersoni, Otus 287, 288, 298 — , — colombianus 288, 289 Petronia 66 Phaethornis eurynome 304 eurynome 304 nigrirostris 304 — malaris 303 insignis 304 margarettae 303, 304 — maranhaoensis 304 — margarettae 303, 304 — nattereri 304 — nigrirostris 304 — _ supericiliosus 304 Phalaropus tricolor 263 Phasianus 68 — colchicus 166 Phedina 92, 96 phillipsi, Tangara 297, 298 — , — heinei 297 Philomachus pugnax 272 Philydor atricapillus 290, 305 — _hylobius 290, 304, 305 — hyperythrus 290 — novaesi 290, 298 Phoeniculus 90 — aterrimus 213 — damarensis 78 — purpureus angolensis 78 Phoenicurus 91 — erythrogaster 124 — moussieri 94 — _ phoenicurus 124 Phyllastrephus 91, 93 — icterinus 276 — leucolepis 218, 276, 298 — terrestris 93,95 Phylloscartes ceciliae 295, 298 — gualaquizae 295 — lanyoni 295, 298 — orbitalis 295 — venezuelanus 295 Phylloscopus 49, 172 — sp. 300-301 — chloronotus 301 — proregulus 301 picata, Oenanthe opp. 225, 237-49 — ,Saxicola 238 Picoides 90 — major 20, 28 — nuttalli 24 — scalaris 24 — _ syriacus 20, 28 Picus 90, 92, 94 — major 133 — _ syriacus 133 — villosus 128 — viridis 92 pileata, Oenanthe 94 pileatus, Herpsilochmus 291, 292 Pinarocorys 91 Pinarornis 93, 96 — plumosus 80 Pinguinus impennis 178, 182 pinus, Vermivora 28 Pipilo crissalis 23 — erythrophthalmus 18 — fuscus 23 — ocail8 piscator, Crinifer 213 Pitta 90 — angolensis 214 Platalea 96, 165 — leucorodia 164, 222 1 ibalsaciya iy, Plegadis 96 — falcinellus 222 Ploceus batesi 213 — burnieri 282, 298 — castanops 282, 283 — cucullatus 166 — _ dicrocephalus 282 — galbula 166 — intermedius 282 — jacksoni 282, 283 — katangae 283 — melanocephalus 282, 283 — — duboisi 213 — — fischeri 283 — pelzelni 213 — _ reichardi ruweti 283 — _ ruweti 283 — subaureus 166, 282 — subpersonatus 213 — taeniopterus 282, 283 — upembae 283 — velatus 282, 283 — victoriae 282, 283 plumifera, Guttera 212 plumosus, Pinarornis 80 Pluvialis 96 — apricaria 133 — dominica 133 Pluvianus 96 Podiceps grisegena 137 Poecilotriccus tricolor 305 poensis, Neocossyphus 93 — , Batis occulta 280 Poeoptera lugubris 213 Pogoniulus 90 — bilineatus 24 — pusillus 24 Pogonocichla 91 — stellata 93 Poicephalus cryptoxanthus 84 — meyeri 84 — rueppellii 84 poiciloptilus, Botaurus 164 poliocephala, Alethe 214 poliogenys, Spermophaga 210 poliophrys, Alethe 93 Poliospiza 85 — leucoptera 81 polyglotta, Hippolais 124 Porphyrio 96 — martinica 263 porphyrolaema, Apalis 221 Porphyrula martinica 263 Porzana 96 prigoginei, Caprimulgus 273, 298 princei, Zoothera 302 princeps, Passerculus sandwichensis 25 Prinia 80 — fluviatilis 220, 222 — subflava 221, Figs. 4-5 pririt, Batis 83 Prodotiscus 96 Progne 87 Promerops 58, 66, 67 — cafer77, 81 — gurneyi 77 ardens 77 proregulus, Phylloscopus 301 Psalidoprocne 91 — nitens 214 Psamathia annae 278 Pseudhirundo 92, 96 Pseudocalyptomena eurystomina 93 Pseudochelidon 91 — eurystomina 87—96, 213 — _ sirintarae 87 Pseudochloroptila symonsi 77 — totta77, 81 Psilorhinus morio 263 psychopompus, Scytalopus 294, 295, 298 Pterocles 76, 90 pteneres, Tachyeres 285, 286 Pterophanes 301 Ptilopachus 96 pugnax, Philomachus 272 pullaria, Agapornis 213 punctuligera, Campethera 92 purpuratus, Trachyphonus 32 purpurea, Ardea 217 purpureus, Phoeniculus 78 pusillus, Pogoniulus 24 Pycnonotus 85, 91 — barbatus 83 — capensis 83 — nigricans 83 Pyrrhula pyrrhula 125, 140 Pyrrhura melanura 286 — orcesi 194, 286, 298 Pyrrhurus 96 pytyopsittacus, Loxia 134 quadrivirgata, Cercotrichas 93 Quelea anomala 213 Querquedula 264 rabori, Napothera 277 Rallus 96 — insignis 271 — okinawae 270-71, 298 — torquatus celebensis 270 kuehni 270 limarius 270 sulcirostris 271 torquatus 270 rara, Lagonosticta 221, 284 raricola, Vidua 221, 283, 284, 285, 298 regia, Vidua 78 — , Nectarinia 281 Regulus 133, 201 — calendula 199, 200, 201, 202 — ignicapillus 200, 201, 202, 203 — regulus 200, 201, 202 — satrapa 199, 200, 201, 202, 203 X11 reichardi, Ploceus 283 Rhamphocoris 91 Rhaphidura 90 — leucopygialis 263 Rhea 120 Rhinoptilus 76 Rhodostethia 265 Rhynchops 31 Rhynochetos 31 Riparia 91 — congica 213 — riparia 275 riparia, Hirundo 125 — , Riparia 275 Rissa 265 robertsi, Oreophilais 80 rodolphei, Stachyris 277 roraimae, Automolus 290, 304, 305 roseogrisea, Streptopelia 219, Fig. 2 rostratus, Passerculus sandwichensis 25 Rougetius 96 rubecula, Erithacus 93, 207 ruddi, Apalis 80 — _, Heteromirafra 81 rueppellii, Poicephalus 84 rufescens, Acrocephalus 218 ruficapilla, Cettia 278 ruficauda, Gerygone 280, 298 ruficeps, Cisticola 220 — _,Stachyris 277 ruficollis, Jynx 92 ruficrista, Eupodotis ruficrista 219, Fig. 1 rufigena, Caprimulgus 209 rufipennis, Nectarinia 280, 281, 298 rufocinerea, Terpsiphone 214 rufogularis, Apalis 211, 221, Fig. 6 rufopicta, Lagonosticta 285 rufula, Grallaria 294 rufus, Cinclodes fuscus 304 rustica, Hirundo 93, 275 rusticolus, Falco 133 ruweti, Ploceus 283, 298 sabini, Larus 263 — ,Xema 263 sacra, Egretta 164 Salicarius, Parus 132, 133 sanctaecatarinae, Otus 288 sandwichensis, Passerculus 25 Sarothrura 90 savilei, Eupodotis ruficrista 219, 222, Fig. 1 Saxicola 91 scalaris, Picoides 24 scandens, Geospiza 99, 100, 102, 103 schalowi, Tauraco livingstonii 78 Schizoeaca 290 Schoutedenapus 90 sclateri, Spizocorys 92 scops, Otus 220, 222 Scopus 165 — umbretta 164, 209 Scotopelia 96 scutatus, Malimbus 211 Scytalopus 295 — indigoticus 294, 295 — _psychopompus 294, 295, 298 seebohmi, Cettia 278 semitorquata, Streptopelia 77, 78 senegala, Lagonosticta 285 senegalensis, Acrocephalus rufescens 218 — _, Otus scops 220 — ,Zosterops 83, 213 Serinus 20, 85 — canaria 111 — citrinipectus 80 — serinus 111 Serpophaga griseiceps 305 — munda 305 — _ subcristata 305 — — munda 305 sewerzowl, Tetrastes 134 sharpul, Apalis bamendae 221 Sn hee eoslingr 221 — , — sharp 221, Fig. 6 — ,Mirafra 275 Sheppardia 91 sicki, Terenura 292, 298 sidamoensis, Mirafra 275 signata, Cercotrichas 93 similis, Anthus 75 Siphia strophiata 205, 206, 207 Sipodotus 279 — wallacii 279 sirintarae, Pseudochelidon 87 Sitta caesia 124, 131 — europaea 124, 131, 140, 206 — frontalis 204 — krueperi 302 — ledanti 302 sjoestedti, Glaucidium 210 sladeni, Gymnobucco 211 smithi, Turdus olivaceus 81 Smithornis capensis 213 somalica, Mirafra 275 Somateria spectabilis 126 sophiae, Leptopoecile 201, 203 soror, Batis, 79, 83 sorsogonensis, Napothera 277 sparsa, Anas 263 Spatula 264 spectabilis, Somateria 126 Spermophaga haematina 214 — poliogenys 210 Spermophila 225 Sphyrapicus thyroideus 22 spilodera, Hirundo 92, 275, 276 Spizocorys fringillaris 81 — sclateri 92 Sporophila spp. 225-35 squamatus, Francolinus 212 Stachyris hypogrammica 277 — latistriata 194, 276, 277, 298 7 STO LUMA 2/0. 277, =) Lodolpher 277, Sailmuhiceps 2 77, — striata 276, 277 X1V Stactolaema 90 sowerbyi 78 whytii 78 Steganopus tricolor 263 stellata, Pogonocichla 93 Sterna 96, 261 albifrons 265 caspia 265 Stiphrornis 91 erythrothorax 214 Stizorhina 217 finschi 220, Fig. 3 fraseri 220, Fig. 3 Streptopelia 90 capicola 84 decaocto 219, Fig. 2 roseogrisea 219, Fig. 2 sermitorquata maxima 77, 78 striata, Stachyris 276, 277 striatus, Colius 213 Strix 96 strophiata, Muscicapa 206 , Siphia 205, 206, 207 Struthio 58 camelus syriacus 181 Sturnella magna 28 neglecta 28 Sturnus 40 unicolor 124 vulgaris 14, 87, 124, 125. — britannicus 14 subaureus, Ploceus 166, 282 subcoronatus, Lanius collaris 81 subcristata, Serpophaga 305 subflava, Prinia 221, Figs. 4, 5 subfrenata, Meliphaga 281 subpersonatus, Ploceus 213 suecica, Luscinia 125, 207 Sula bassana 263 sulcirostris, Rallus torquatus 271 supericiliosus, Phaethornis 304 swinhoei, Lophura 299 Swynnertonia 91 swynnertoni 93 Sylvietta whytii whytu 79 symonsi, Pseudochloroptila 77 syndactyla, Bleda 215 syriacus, Picoides 20 , Picus 133 , Struthio 181 ‘Tachyeres 286 brachypterus 285, 286 leucocephalus 285, 286, 298 patachonicus 285 pteneres 285, 286 ‘Tachymarptis 90 melba 263 taeniopterus, Ploceus 282, 283 ‘Tangara cayana 296 cucullata 296 flava 296 meyerdeschauenseei 296, 298 — phillipsi 297, 298 — vitriolina 296 tarda, Otis 182 Tauraco corythaix 81 — livingstonii schalowi 78 — macrorhynchus 211 — persa 211 Telecanthura 90 — melanopygia 209 Telophorus zeylonus 77 tenellus, Timetothylacus 75 tephronotum, Glaucidium 211 Terenura 292 — maculata 292 — sicki 292, 298 terrestris, Phyllastrephus 93, 95 Terpsiphone rufocinerea 214 tessmanni, Muscicapa 209 Tetrao 251—59 — urogallus 252 Tetraogallus 253 — tibetanus 254 Tetrastes bonasia 134 — sewerzowi 134 — umbellus 134 Tetrax 96 thalassina, Eumyias 263 — ,Muscicapa 263 Theristicus 165 — caudatus 164 Thescelocichla 91 Threnetes cristinae 303 — freirei 303 — grzimeki 303 — leucurus loehkeni 303 — loehkeni 303 — niger 303 Threskiornis 90, 165 — aethiopicus 164 Thryomanes bewickii 28 Thryothorus eisenmanni 296, 298 — euophrys 296 tT AtLICeps: 290 — — eisenmanni 296 — — longipes 296 thyroideus, Sphyrapicus 22 Tiaris 225, 227, 228, 233 tibetanus, Tetraogallus 254 Tichodroma 205 — muuraria 204, 206 Timetothylacus 96 — tenellus 75 Tinnunculus 264 tinnunculus, Falco 124 Tockus 90, 92, 95 — erythrorhynchus degens 80 — hartlaubi 211 — leucomelas parvior 80 Todiramphus chloris 263 Todirostrum albifacies 305 — capitale 305 torquatus, Gallirallus 270 — ,Lybius 80 XV — _, Rallus torquatus 270 torquilla, Jynx 92 totta, Pseudochloroptila 77, 81 Toxorhamphus 67 Trachyphonus 32, 90, 92 — darnaudii 32 — _ erythrocephalus 32 — margaritatus 32 — purpuratus 32 — vaillantii 32 Tragopan 253 Treron 96 — calva ansorgei 78 — — damarensis 78 Trichastoma albipectus/cleaveri 211 Trichocichla 278 Tricholaema 90 Tricholestes criniger 263 tricolor, Phalaropus 263 — _, Poecilotriccus 305 Tringa alpina 128 trizonatus, Buteo 81 Troglodytes aedon 28, 29 tucumanus, Cinclodes fuscus 304 Turdus 89, 93 — merula 161 — migratorius 24 — olivaceus smithi 81 turneri, Eremomela 209 Turnix 90 Turtur 76 umbellus, Tetrastes 134 umbretta, Scopus 164, 209 undulata, Chlamydotis 91 unicolor, Sturnus 124 upembae, Ploceus 283 Upupa 90 Uraeginthus granatinus 78 Uria aalge 133, 178, 183 — lomvia 133 Urocolius 96 urogallus, Tetrao 252 vaillanti, Trachyphonus 32 Vanellus 90, 91 varia, Mniotilta 128 velatus, Ploceus 282, 283 venturi, Anthus 182 venezuelanus, Phylloscartes 295 Vermivora chrysoptera 28 — pinus 28 vespertina, Coccothraustes 263 — _, Hesperiphona 263 vexillarius, Macrodipteryx 209 victoriae, Ploceus 282, 283, 298 victorini, Bradypterus 81 Vidua 21, 222, 223 — chalybeata 285 — fischeri 20 — funerea 284 — larvaticola 221, 284, 285, 298 — macroura 20 — yraricola 221, 283, 284, 285, 298 — regia 7/8 — wilsoni 284, 285 villosus, Picus 128 violacea, Nectarinia 81 — , Nyctanassa 263 — , Nycticorax 263 violacior, Lamprotornis mevesii 78 virens, Andropadus 214 — , Zosterops pallidus 83 virginianus, Bubo 128 viridis, Picus 92 Vitia 278 — parens 278 — ruficapilla 278 vitriolina, Tangara 296 vivacens, Lybius torquatus 80 vocifer, Haliaeetus 32, 33 Volatinia 233 vulcania, Cettia 278 vulgaris, Sturnus 14, 87, 124, 125 Vultur 163 — gryphus 163, 164 wallacii, Sipodotus 279 watsonii, Otus 288 whytii, Sylvietta whytii 79 williamsi, Mirafra 274 wilsoni, Vidua 284, 285 Xema 265 — _ sabini 263 Xenocopsychus 91 Xenorhynchus asiaticus 164 yzurietae, Cinclodes fuscus 304 Zeledonia 43 zenkeri, Melignomon 218, 274 zeylonus, 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