iiuapum of Natural f tatnnj L.I1IRAUY fflljfranii FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM PUBLICATION 17. Ornithological Series. Vol. i, No. 2. CATALOGUE OF A COLLECTION OF BIRDS OBTAINED BYTHE EXPEDITION INTO SOMALI-LAND. BY D. G. ELLIOT, F. R. S. E. C. B. CORY, Curator of Department. CHICAGO, U. S. A. February, 1897. CATALOGUE OF A COLLECTION OF BIRDS OBTAINED BY THE RECENT EXPEDITION INTO SOMALI-LAND, AUTHORIZED AND EQUIPPED BY THE FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM, WITH DESCRIPTIONS OF NEW SPECIES. BY D. G. ELLIOT, F. R. S. E. The following species were obtained during the travels of myself and party throughout Somali-land into Ogaden. The main object of the expedition was to procure specimens of the mammals inhabiting the country, and I could give but little attention to the birds, much to my regret, but I endeavored to obtain as many species as possible without attempting to gather a series of any one. This will account for the small number of specimens belonging to any one species. It was not that they were difficult to collect, for I never was in a land where birds were more numerous and tame, and an expedition properly equipped for bird collecting, could procure a very large series of specimens in a comparatively short time. In accordance with the custom prevailing in the Field Columbian Museum, this collection should have been handed over to the Department of Ornithology, but Professor C. B. Cory, the Curator, is at present absent in Florida, and has requested me to determine the species, and publish the list. In order to facilitate comparison of the lists, I have followed in this one the arrangement adopted by Dr. Sharpe in his catalogue of the birds obtained by Dr. Donaldson Smith in his journey to Lake Rudolph. I am indebted to my friend, Dr. Sharpe, for the privilege of access to the British Museum collection, for the purpose of com- paring the following species with the specimens in the great series of that institution: ORDER PASSERES. FAM. CORVID.E. i. Corvus edithae. Corvus edithae, Lort Phillips, Bull. Ornith. Club, iv, p. xxxvi. -Id., Ibis, p. 383 (1895). $ Laferug. 9 Higlileh, Ogaden. This small crow was seen at various places during the trip, such as Deregodleh, Laferug, Higlileh in Ogaden, etc. It was 29 30 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. at once recognizable, even if not in sight, by its entirely different caw, quite unlike that uttered by the other crows, and when flying, the tail extending far beyond the secondaries, made the bird quite conspicuous, when in company with individuals of the following species. 2. Rhinocorax affinis. Corvus affinis. Riipp. Neue Wirb., p. 20, Taf. 10, fig. 2. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. Ill, p. 46 (1877). $ $ 9 Berbera. This crow was very plentiful in many parts of Cuban and Ogo as well as in Ogaden, and could always be recognized when on the wing by its long secondaries, which extended over two-thirds the length of the tail. It was common at Berbera, and the spe- cies was represented in about every place in which any crows were seen. It was quite tame like most birds in Somali-land, and there was no difficulty in obtaining specimens. One pecu- liarity of this species and of the preceding, and one I do not remember to have noticed among other crows, was its habit of soaring. A number would rise in the air, generally in the middle of the day when the heat was excessive, and ascend in more or less extensive circles, until they became mere specks in the sky or disappeared altogether. Often during this performance they would join, or be joined by, vultures, eagles or hawks, and then the entire company would sail along, circling as they went, the crows cutting across the paths of their large companions in utter disregard of their movements, or without apparent fear of a colli- sion. While thus soaring I never noticed any movement of the wings, the birds propelling themselves onward and upward in the same mysterious manner as is observed of the birds of prey when similarly engaged. FAM. STURNIM:. 3. Dilophus carunculatus. Gracula carunculata. Gm. Syst. Nat., Vol. I, p. 399 (1788). Dilophus carunculatus. Heugl. Orn., N. O., Afr., Vol. I, p. 529. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 61 (1890). $ $ Toyo Plain. This curious starling was only seen twice, at our camp at Gelalo in the middle of Toyo. Plain, and again, a flock of them, on the southern edge of the Haud. They were rather shy and approached our camp in order to drink at the rain pools which FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 31 happened to be there. In the small flock that appeared at Gelalo there was one female, recognized by the absence of wattles, but we were not able to secure her. The individuals busied them- selves upon the ground apparently searching for seeds and insects, probably chiefly the latter, and on being approached, flew rapidly for a short distance and alighted on the ground, or in one of the thorn trees near our tents. The wattles were very conspicuous at all times, the two pendant from the throat flap- ping about as the birds moved their heads, while the two on top of the crown stood upright. \ FAM. EULABETID.E. 4. Cosmopsarus regius. Cosmopsarus regius Shelley, Ibis, p. 411 (1885). $ 9 Adadleh. $ juv. The Haud. 9 9 Dagahbur. This beautiful creature known to us as the Satin Bird, was not uncommon at various localities in both Cuban, near the Golis range, and in Ogo. I first met with it in the forest at Mandera, and it became more plentiful as we proceeded south of the moun- tains. It was always a most conspicuous object among the trees, its brilliant plumage flashing in the rays of the sun. One peculiar effect I often noticed was that when flying the rich yellow underparts appeared red, and I would think I had a second spe- cies until I took the specimen in my hand. I never could account for this optical illusion, for although specimens vary greatly in the depth of the coloring on breast and lower parts generally, there is certainly no red anywhere on the bird's plumage, the nearest approach to it being the metallic purple hue beneath the throat. The species was wilder than most of the birds met with, and it was not always easy to approach very near. When flying it was a graceful object as it floated in the air with the long tail spread out to its fullest extent, and contrasting strongly in the brilliant sunlight in its pale bronze hue with the metallic blues and greens of the wings and back. Altogether it is probably the most beautiful bird as yet known to inhabit Somali-land. 5. Amydrus blythii. Amydrus blythii. Hartl. , Jour. f. Orn., p. 32(1859). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 164 (1890). 9 Jerato Pass. Golis Range. 32 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. I only met with this species once, at the Jerato Pass, going up from Tug Mandera to the top of the range. It goes in flocks of a dozen or more individuals, and usually keeps high upon the mountain side, and is very wary and difficult to approach. When flying the chestnut color on the wings is displayed to great advantage, and the birds are most attractive objects. I think it is a r'are species and very local in its habitat. It usually fre- quents the tops of the highest trees, and the few times I saw the birds on bushes near the ground I only had a rifle with me, and so could not procure any specimens. 6. Heteropsar albicapillus. Spreo albicapillus. Blyth, Jour. Asiat. Soc. Beng., Vol. XXIV, p. 301 (1855). Heteropsar albicapillus. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXXI, p. 1 86 (1890). $ $ Toyo Plain. Not uncommon, very frequently staying about the camp, quite tame and unsuspicious. 7. Spreo shelleyi. Spreo shelleyi. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 190 (1890). $ $ The Haud. Only seen on the high plateau, and apparently nowhere very abundant. I don't remember ever seeing it loitering in and about the camp, as is the habit of the succeeding species, and, so far as I have observed, it goes only in small flocks. 8. Spreo superbus. Notauges superbus. Riipp, Syst. Uebers, pp. 65, 75; Taf. 26 Spreo superbus. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XII, p. 189 (1890). $ Laferug. This beautiful bird, resplendent in its metallic coloring, was one of the commonest species, especially on the high plateau. It frequently goes in flocks of considerable size, has a short pleasant song, and was a most familiar visitor to the camp, com- ing about the tents quite fearlessly seeking for food. It has such a lovely plumage and pretty ways that it was always welcome, its white eyes gazing up at you from out the black feathers of the head, with a very peculiar effect. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 33 FAM. BUPHAGID^:. 9. Buphaga erythrorhynchus. Buphaga erythrorhynchus. Stanl. in Salt's Voy. Abyss. , App. p. 59 (1814). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 196 (1890). $ $ 9 Higlileh. 9 Le Gud. This species resorts to the bodies of camels and cattle, running all over them in the manner of a woodpecker on a tree trunk. They search for ticks which infest the four-footed creatures, and often pick at sore places and keep them from healing. They alight anywhere they take a fancy, on the head or legs, or any part of the body, moving about with the greatest facility, their heads as often pointing downward as any other way. The camels do not seem to pay much attention to them, and I have frequently seen one of these birds investigating the inside of an animal's ear and pulling at the insect found there, the camel or cow, as the case might be, showing no objection to the treatment it was receiving. If startled the flock departs for a short time, and then returns to renew operations. FAM. DICRURID.E. xo. Buchanga assimilis. Buchanga assimilis. Bechst, Lath. Allg. Uebers, Vog., Vol. II, p. 562. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. Ill, p. 247 (1877). 9 Le Gud. $ Hullier. $ Marodijeh. Frequently seen upon the plateau singly or in pairs. FAM. ORIOLID^E. ii. Oriolus larvatus. Oriolus larvatus. Licht, Verz. Doubl., p. 20. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. Ill, p. 217 (1890). $ Adadleh. $ juv. Boholgashan. The only specimens met with on the journey. They were prob- ably migrating. 34 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. FAM. PLOCEID.E. 12. Linura fischeri. Linura fischeri. Reichen, Orn. CentralbL, p. 91 (1882). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 210 (1890). $ Hullier. 13. Quelea aethiopica. Hyphantica aethiopica. Heugl., Orn. N. O. Afr., Vol. I, pt. 2, p. 543 (1870). Quelea aethiopica. Salv., Ann. Mus., Gen. (2), Vol. I, p. 193 (1884). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 259 (1890). $ $ $ $ $ Marodijeh. 9 9 This weaver bird was frequently seen in large flocks on the plateau. It would sometimes roost in great numbers near the camp in some tree overgrown with vines which afforded a thick shelter. At the place where our specimens were collected a large number were shot and served for breakfast the next morning, and were as nice a morsel as is our own reed or rice bird, the much persecuted Bob-o-link. 14. /Edemosyne cantans. Loxia cantans. Gm. Syst. Nat., Vol. I, p. 859 (1788). Aidemosyne cantans. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 371 (1890). 9 Hullier. 15. Estrelda rhodopyga. Estrelda rhodopyga. Sund., ^Efv. K.Vet.-Akad. Forh. Stockh., p. 126 (1850). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XIII, p. 396 (1890). $ $ Hullieh. 9 9 Hullieh. o? Hullieh. 16. Zonogastris melba affinis, subsp. nov. $ $ Hersi Barri, Ogaden. This seems to be the East African form of Z. melba, but differ- ing from that species in having the under tail coverts conspic- uously barred, the white spots on the breast being clearly perceptible through the overlying yellow color, and the red of the throat and forehead being deeper. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS— ELLIOT. 35 Its distribution is apparently from Manda Island or vicinity on the coast, through Somali-land as far as known, and extending westward to Lake Albert. Nyanza, wjience a specimen obtained by Emin Pasha at Kibiro, near the lake was received at the British Museum and is almost identical with my examples so far as the bars on the under tail coverts are concerned, but the red of the head and throat is not so dark, and the yellow of the breast not so extensive. A specimen in the British Museum collection from Manda Island, obtained by Jackson, has an indication of bars on the under tail coverts, while another from Lamoo, sent by Kirk, has no bars whatever. The vicinity of Lamoo then would seem to be the northern and southern boundary of the two forms which here meet on the East coast, but their distribution in the interior has yet to be ascertained. Z. sondanensis, Sharpe, from the Soudan to Bogos-land, is inter- mediate between Z. melba and Z. m. affinis, having just a faint indication of bars on the under tail coverts, and would seem to connect the two forms. The single specimen from Lado, included by Sharpe in his Z. sondanensis, undoubtedly belongs to the pres- ent sub-species and not to his new form, which, therefore, as far as known, does not extend south of Bogos-land. 17. Granatina ianthinogastra. Uraeginthus ianthinogastra. Reichen, Orn. Centralbl., p. 114 (1879). $ Le Gud. $ Marodijeh. $ Hullier. $ Marodijeh. $ Haud. A generally distributed species in Somali-land. 18. Hyphantornis galbula. Hyphantornis galbula. Riipp. Neue. Wirb., p. 92, pi. 32, fig. 2 (1835-40). $ Las Durban. $ $ Cabala, o? Hullier. Not uncommon in certain portions of the plateau. 36 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. 19. Dinemellia dinemelli. Textor dinemelli. Riipp. Syst. Uebers, pp. 72, 76, pi. 30, (1845). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. Vol. XIII., p. 506 (1890). $ $ Hullier. A common species, very conspicuous by its red rump and under tail coverts, and white and black plumage. It goes in flocks and is seen everywhere. FAM. FRINGILLID,E. 20. Petronia pyrgita. Xantholina pyrgita. Heugl., Orn. N. O. Afr., Vol. I, p. 627^ pi. xxi, fig. 2. Petronia pyrgita. Sharpe Cat. B. Brit. Mus. Vol. XII, p. 296 (1888). $ $ Hullieh. 9 9 Hullieh. o? Hullieh. 21. Serinus maculicolis. Serinus maculicollis. Sharpe Bull. Brit. Orn. Club, iv, p. xli, (1895). $ $ Hullier. 9 Hullier. o? Hersi Barri, Ogaden. This Finch first obtained by Dr. Donaldson Smith's Expedition was not very abundant anywhere, but evidently has considerable of a distribution, as the two places named above where I obtained it were nearly one hundred and fifty miles apart. It is appar- ently a very good species. 22. Emberiza poliopleura. Fringillaria poliopleura. Salv., Ann. Mus. Civ. Genov. (2) VI,. p. 269 (1888). $ Hullier. $ Haud. Not a very uncommon bunting, especially about Hullier, which is a short distance east of Hargeisa. 23. Fringillaria septemstriata. Emberiza septemstriata. Rttpp. Neue Wirb. , Vog. p. 86, tab. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 37 30, fig. 2 (1835-40). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XII, p. 559 (1888). $ Hullier. FAM. ALAUDID^. 24. Alaudula somalica. Alaudula somalica. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc. p. 472 (1895). $ Silo Plain. 25. Mirafra gilletti. Mirafra gilletti. Sharpe, Bull. Orn. Club, iv, p. xxix. $ Hullier. 26. Mirafra intercedens. Mirafra intercedens. Reich., Ornith. Monat, p. 96, 1895. $ $ Dagahbur. We only met with this species at Dagahbur in Ogaden, about twenty miles south of the Haud. It is apparently a very dis- tinct species. 27. Mirafra sharpii, sp. nov. $ Silo Plain. Head rufous, the feathers generally having a black spot at the tip. Nape and sides of neck dark rufous, feathers edged with pale buff. Back dark rufous ,or chestnut, feathers margined with buff and with a black subterminal V-shaped bar. Rump similar to back, upper tail coverts, brownish-black with gray margins, and a black spot near the tip. Wings have the inner- most secondaries like the back, outer ones rufous for two-thirds their length, remaining portion pale brown, and a black line running parallel to the shaft near the margin of outer web; tips white. Primaries light chestnut for two-thirds their length, on outer quills, pale. brown on remaining part. The chestnut color increases in extent on the inner primaries until the innermost is all chestnut with a blackish-brown tip; under wing coverts deep buff; primary coverts rufous. Central rectrices blackish-brown, mottled with black in the middle, grading into rufous towards the outer edges of the webs, which are margined with white, and an irregular black line runs along the web near its margin. Remain- der of rectrices blackish-brown margined with white, but the outermost rectrix has the entire outer web pale buff. Supercili- 38 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. ary stripe pale buff; ear coverts and cheeks white spotted and streaked with black. Throat and sides of neck white. Breast buff streaked and spotted with brownish-black, lower parts, flanks and under tail coverts pale buff inclining to white. Bill long, slender, horn color. Tarsi and feet flesh color. Irides brown. Total length, skin, 6.10 inches; wing, 4; tail, 3.50; culmen, .70; tarsus, 1.20. Only one specimen of this new form was obtained on the north side of Silo Plain. Possibly its nearest relative is M. africana, Smith, but it differs greatly from that species in all its ages. I compared this specimen with the large series of africana in the British Museum Collection, and from the adult it differs in its white throat, and the under parts buff tinged with white, these parts on africana being deep buff; while the coloring of the upper parts is in nowise alike. From the young of africana it differs in having more of a buff tinge beneath, and differently colored upper part, which in africana juv. is hoary gray, or dark brown, with central black stripes. The upper tail coverts in africana juv. are brown with narrow black central stripes, totally different from those of the present form. The primary coverts also in M. sharpiiare entirely rufous, without any of the black streaks as in africana. I have pleasure in bestowing upon this new form the name of my friend, Dr. R. B. Sharpe, LL. D., of the British Museum. 28. Galerita pallida, sp. nov. $ Dagahbur. $ Hersi Barri, Ogaden. Top of head pale rufous, each feather with a central black streak. Crest composed of a slender bunch of similarly colored narrow feathers .90 of an inch long, springing from the vicinity of the occiput; upper parts and wings dark buff, paler than the head, the feathers with black centers and whitish edges. Pri- maries dark brown, buff on outer edge of outer web, and three- fourths the edge of inner web, narrowing to a point as it goes towards the tip. Secondaries blackish brown with bright buff margins; under wing coverts rose color. Upper tail coverts buff with black central streaks. Tail black, margined and tipped with bright buff. Ear coverts and cheeks buff, streaked with black. Throat white; breast pale buff thickly spotted with black, almost forming a band below the throat. Under parts, flanks and under tail coverts pale buff inclining to white in the center FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 39 of the abdomen. Bill, maxilla horn color, mandible flesh color at base, horn color at tip. Tarsi and feet flesh color. Total length, skin, 6.40; wing, 3.90; tail, 2.80; culmen, .50; tarsus, .90 inches. There is no species of Galerita known that is like this new form, perhaps the nearest being G. malabarica, Sonn; but it differs so greatly from that Indian species as to make a comparison of them quite unnecessary. Its back is so light colored as to ren- der the bird somewhat difficult to see on the sandy soil, and the underparts strongly incline to white. The crest is rather long and slender, but the length varies I imagine among individuals, as those of the two specimens obtained, are not equal in this respect. They also vary in the color of the upper parts, the Hersi Barri specimen being the lighter, which is surprising as Dagahbur is a much more sandy and open locality. 29. Ammomanes akeleyi. sp. nov. $ $ Deragodleh. 9 Hullier. Front and top of head dark rufous brown forming a kind of cap, remaining part very dark ash-gray, a difficult shade to express so as to give the proper idea. Superciliary stripe from nostril to behind eye, buff. Rump golden buff. Wings same color as the back; secondaries dark ashy brown margined with ash-gray. Primaries dark brown, under wings, coverts, and greater part of inner webs of secondaries bright deep buff. Tail dark brown, outer web of outer rectrix pale rufous. Throat white; entire underparts buff inclining to white on center of abdo- men. Bill yellow ochre, blackish on ridge and base of culmen. Irides brown. Feet and tarsus flesh color. Total length, 5; wing, 370; tail, 2.60; culmen, .70; tarsus, .80 inches. This lark is an ally of A. deserti, but is somewhat smaller in its measurements, and considerably darker in color; and may be regarded as the Somali coast representative of the. more widely dispersed species. I do not remember seeing it beyond Hullier on the plateau, and we first met with it at our second camp from Berbera, where the two males were procured. I have pleasure in naming this species after Mr. C. E. Akeley, my chief assistant, and head of the Taxidermist Department in the Museum. 40 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. FAM. MOTACILLID^:. 30. Motacilla campestris. Motacilla campestris. Pall, Reis. , Russ., Reichs. , Vol. Ill, Anhang., p. 697 (1776). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. X, p. 510 (1885). $ Berbera. Shot at Berbera in company with the two succeeding species: 31. Motacilla borealis. Motacilla borealis. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. X, p. 522 (1885). $ Berbera. Shot out of a flock at Berbera, the only place it was met with. 32. Motacilla cinereicapilla. Motacilla cinereicapilla. Savi., Nuovo. Giorn. dei Letter, No. 57, p. 190. Id., Oru. Tosc. , Vol. Ill, p. 216 (1831). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. X, p. 526 (1885). $ Berbera. Obtained at the same time with the other species and I believe at the same shot. A large flock of these birds had come to drink at a rill escaping from a cistern close by, and I fired at them and procured these three species. It was the only time I saw them. The different species were all mingled together, maintaining no distinctive organization and I supposed there was but one, until I picked them up. 33. Anthus sordidus. $ ad. Hullier. Anthus sordidus. Riipp, NeueWirb. Aves, p. 103, pi. 39, fig. i (1835). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. X, p. 560 (1885). 34. Tmetothylacus tenellus. Macronyx tenellus. Cab. Jour. f. Ornit. , pp. 205, 220, pi. 2, fig. i (1878). ' $ $ $ $ Hersi Barri, Ogaden. Not uncommon in the vicinity of this camping place. FAM. NECTARINID^:. 35. Cinnyris osiris. Nectarinia osiris Finsch. Tr. Zool. Soc., Vol. VII, p. 230 (1870). FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 41 $ Marodijeh. $ $ $ Le Gud, $ Hullier. 9 Le Gud. 36. Cinnyris albiventris. Nectarinia albiventris. Strickl., Contr. Orn., p. 42, pi. 86 (1852). $ Hersi Barri. 37. Anthothreptes orientalis. Anthreptes orientalis. Hartl, Jour. f. Orn., p. 213(1880). $ Le Gud. 9 Hullier. 38. Chalcomitra hunteri. Cinnyris hunteri. Shelley, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 365, pi. xli, fig. 2, (1889). $ Hullier. Not uncommon in this locality. 39. Hedydipna metalliea. Nectarinia metalliea. Licht. Verz. Doubl. , p. 15 (1823). $ Berbera. $ Laferug. This beautiful sun bird was not uncommon. FAM. ZOSTEROPID.E. 46. Zosterops poliogaster. Zosterops poliogaster. Heugl., Ibis, p. 357, pi. 13 (1861). $ $ Boholgashan. 9 Boholgashan. We only saw this pretty little bird at this one locality. FAM. PARID^E. 41. Parus thruppi. Parus thruppi. Shelley, Ibis, p. 406, pi. xi, fig. 2 (1885). James, Unkn. Horn. Af. , p. 295, pi. vi, fig. 2. $ $ $ Le Gud. $ Hullier. We met with this Tit as soon as we entered upon the plateau, 42 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. the localities given being near the Golis Range, the last one a short march from Hargeisa. 42. ^githalus musculus. Agithalus musculus. Hartl, Jour. f. Orn., p. 326 (1882). $ Haud. Iris brown. Seldom seen, but probably it easily escapes recognition on account of its very small size. FAM. LANIID.E. 43. Lanius antinorii. Lanius antinorii. Salvad, Ann. Mus. Civ. Genov., Vol. XII, p. 316 (1878). 9 Bodeleh. This was the only specimen taken of this shrike, although I saw many others, but they were not procured. 44. Laniarius cruentus. Lanius cruentus. Hemp & Ehrenb, Symb. Phys. , Fol. C, Tab. iii. Dryoscopus cruentus. Heug)., Orn. N. O. Afr., Vol. IV, p, cxvi. Laniarius cruentus. Gadow. , Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. VIII, p. 152 (1883). $ $ Hullier. 999 Hullier. This beautiful shrike was quite common on various parts of the elevated plateau, thus, contrary to Heuglin's opinion, prov- ing it to be a bird of elevated districts and not restricted to the lowlands and the coast. It has a clear note that often betrays its presence, although its beautiful coloring always made it a conspicuous object. 45. Dryoscopus funebris. Dryoscopus funebris. Hartl, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 105 (1863). $ Hullier. 9 9 Le Gud. 46. Dfyoscopus rufinuchalis. Dryoscopus rufinuchalis. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 479 (1895). 9 Higlileh. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 43 This specimen has the forehead and forepart of the crown black, as mentioned by Dr. Sharpe in the case of Dr. Donald- son Smith's examples. Higlileh is just south of the Haud in Ogaden, which must be some distance from the localities given by Dr. Sharpe for his specimens, viz. : Dahulli and Torboo. I do not know where these named places are, but I know Dr. Smith was well on towards the Shebeyleh river, at the dates given, Sept. 16, and Nov. 25. 47. Telephonus jamesi. Telephonus jamesi. Shelley, Ibis, p. 403, pi. x, fig. 2 (1885). James, Unkn. Horn, Af., p. 291, pi. v, fig. 2. 90? Hullier. Iris brown. Legs gray. 48. Nilaus capensis minor. Nilaus minor. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc. , p. 479 (1895). $ Laferug. o? Le Gud. This race of N. capensis was not at all uncommon, and was noticed in nearly every part of the country traversed by us, and its black and white plumage made it very conspicuous, whether at rest upon some bush or low tree, or when flying with straight and rapid course through the air. 49. Prionops cristatus. Prionops cristatus. Sharpe, Ibis, p. 601 (1892). $ 9 Haud. 9 Higlileh. Iris and eyelids golden yellow. Legs vermilion. This curious bird was only met a few times by us, and then in flocks of some considerable size. It was apparently veiy rest- less, never remaining long in an}' one tree, but kept flying about uttering its shrill note. It was shy also, and did not permit a very near approach, and was an attractive object, its black and white plumage and red legs drawing one's attention quickly to it even if it was silent, which, however, was not often the case. 50. Bradyornis riieppelli. Eurocephalis riieppelli. Bon. Rev. and Mag. Zool., p. 440 (1853). Gadow, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. Vol. Ill, p. 280 (1877). 9 9 Hullier. 44 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORN-ITHOLOGY, VOL. i. This fine species was of frequent occurrence, but seen usually singly or in pairs. Its white head and rump contrasting with its dark wings, made it rather a striking object in the air. 51. Bradyornis pumillus. Bradyornis pumillus. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc. , p. 480 (1895). $ Laferug. $ $ Hullier. FAM. SYLVIID.E. 52. Eremomela flavicrissalis. Eremomela flavicrissalis. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 481 (1895)- 9 9 Hullier. 3 Dagahbur. This little species was only observed on the two occasions when it was captured. 53. Calemonastes simplex. Erythropygia simplex (Cab.) Sharpe, Cat. B., Brit. Mus. Vol. VII, p. 74 (1883). 9 Marodijeh. Iris light brown. This small bird is remarkable for its somewhat metallic voice. 54. Sylviella isabellina, sp. nov. o? Le Gud. Head, entire upper parts and tail dark slaty gray, with a green- ish tinge; rump, buff; throat, whitish buff; flanks, dark buff; under parts, buffy white; wings, same color as back; bill, black; total length, skin, about 3.40; wing, 2. 10; tail, 1. 10; bill, .50 inch. This species, which is apparently new, is nearest to S. rufescens, from South Africa, but instead of being dark buff beneath, as is that species, it is almost white, washed with buff. The type was the only individual obtained. 55. Dryodromas smithii. Dryodromas smithii. Sharpe, Bull. B. O. C. iv, p. xxix. $ Hullier. $ Dagahbur. This little species apparently has quite an extensive distribu- tion, as the two localities where we obtained examples were about one hundred miles apart. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 45 56. Cisticola cisticola. Sylvia cisticola. Temm. Man. Orn. Vol. I, p. 228 (1820). Cisticola cisticola. Sharpe, Cat. B., Brit. Mus. Vol. VII, p. 259 (1883). o? Silo Plain. 57. Cisticola dodsoni. Cisticola dodsoni. Sharpe, Bull. B. O. C. iv, p. xxix. $ Haud. Iris and legs light brown. FAM. TURDID.E. 58. Erythropygia leucoptera. Salicaria leucoptera. Riipp. Syst. Uebers, p. 38, Taf. 15 (1845). $ Hullier. 999 Hullier. 59. Burnesia somalica sp. nov. $ Las Durban. $ Dagahbur, Ogaden. Head and upper parts, ashy brown; greater wing coverts and secondaries, ashy brown, edged with white; primaries, ashy brown; under wing coverts, white; tail, uniform ashy brown above, underneath blue-gray with a sub-terminal black bar and white tip; lores and eyebrows, white; sides of face and under- parts white, tinged with buff on sides of body; bill black; total length, 5.90 inches; wing, 1.90; tail, 3; culmen, .40; tarsus, .90. This bird does not seem particularly near any described spe- cies, being possibly closest to B. socialis, but there are too many striking differences to make it possible to confound the two. 60. /Edon galactodes. Sylvia galactodes. Temm. Man. Orn. Vol. I, p. 182 (1820). $ Las Durban. One specimen only of this species procured. 61. Acrocephalus phragmitis. Sylvia phragmitis. Bechst. Orn. Taschenb., p. 186 (1802). o? Las Durban. 46 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. 62. Acrocephalus streperus. Sylvia strepera. Veill. Nouv. Dist. d'Hist. Nat., Vol. XI, p. 182 (1817). Acrocephalus streperus. Seebohm Cat. B., Brit. Mus". Vol. V, p. 102 (1881). o? Las Durban. 63. Hypolais languida. Curruca languida. Hemp. Ehrenb. Symb. Phys. Aves. , Fol. ee (1833). Hypolais languida. Seebohm, Cat. B., Brit. Mus. Vol. V, p. 80 (1881). $ Silo Plain. The discovery of this specimen nearly in the middle of the Haud extends its distribution one hundred and thirty to forty miles farther south, as Mr. Phillips procured his single specimen at Berbera, and Dr. Smith does not seem to have obtained it on his expedition. 64. Hypolais pallida. Curruca pallida. Hemp. Ehrenb. Symb. Phys, Aves., Fol. bb (1833)- Hypolais pallida. Seebohm, Cat. B., Brit. Mus. Vol. V, p. 82, (1881). 9 9 Berbera. 65. Saxicola phillipsi. Saxicola phillipsi. Shelley, Ibis, p. 404, pi. xii (1885). James, Unkn. Horn, Af., p. 293, pi. vii. $ $ juv. Hullier. o? juv. Hullier. 9 ad. Summer. Boholgashan. Iris dark brown. Specimens in immature plumage were not uncommon at Hul- lier, but we did not get one in full, adult dress until we came to Boholgashan on our return journey from the Haud, and I believe the one obtained was the only one seen. 66. Saxicola isabellina. Saxicola isabellina. Cretzs. Riipp. , Atlas, p. 52 (1826). See- bohm Cat. B., Brit. Mus., Vol. V, p. 399 (1881). 9 Silo Plain. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 47 67. Myrmecocichla melanura. Saxicola melanura, Temm. PL, Col. No. 257, fig. 2 (1824). Myrmecocichla melanura. Seebohm, Cat. B., Brit. Mus. , Vol. V, p. 361 (1880). $ Berbera. 9 Las Durban. FAM. TIMELIID.E. 68. Argya aylmeri. Argya aylmeri. Shelley, in James, Unknown Horn of Afr. , p. 293 pi. vi, fig. i (1888). $ $ Hullier. 9 Hullier, Bill, white; iris, cream color; bare skin about eye, bluish white; legs, light brown. FAM. PYCNONOTID^:. 69. Pycnonotus dodsoni. Pycnonotus dodsoni. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 488 (1895). $ Hullier. 9 Hullier. 9 Higlileh, Ogaden. Not an uncommon species upon the plateau, and as one speci- men was procured by Dr. Smith at Lamoo, it would seem to go to the coast also, although I do not remember seeing it there. It goes in flocks, is tame and unsuspicious, and I have often watched individuals moving among the branches, seeking insects within a few feet of me, as I stood in the shade. FAM. MUSCICAPID^:. 70. Pachyprora bella, sp. nov. $ Le Gud. Iris yellow. $ $ Hullier. Iris golden yellow. 9 Hullier. Iris golden yellow, o? Haud. Iris golden yellow. Male — Head and back dark blue gray; two white spots on fore- head; secondaries black, margined with white; primaries dark brown. Black stripe from bill, passing to nape and including 48 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. eye and sides of face, but is prevented from joining the black collar by the white of hind neck, which continues on until it joins the throat. Throat entirely white. A broad, blue-black band across the breast; remainder of under parts white; tail, blue black, outermost feather white on outer web, which con- tinues to and includes the tip, and edges the inner web .40 of an inch from extreme end. Bill, tarsi and feet, black. Total length, 4.50; wings, 2.30; tail, 2; culmen, .50; tarsus, .80. Female resembles the male, but has a chestnut band across the breast, instead of a blue-black one. Two immature males from Le Gud and the Haud, respectively, are in the dress of the female. This new species is nearest to P. minulla Bocage, but the male differs in having the black line on face interrupted, the white of hind neck, as described, joining the white throat and cutting off the black collar. In P. minulla there is no such inter- ruption; the black on side of face and ear-coverts joins the black collar on the back. The female differs in the same manner. 71. Parisoma bohmi. Parisoma bQhmi. Reichen, Jour. f. Orn., p. 200 (1882). $ $ $ $ ? Hullier. .Iris cream color. $ Daboya. 72. Tersiphone cristata. Tersiphone cristata. Sharpe, Cat. B., Brit. Mus. , Vol. IV, p. 354 (i 879)- $ juv. Gerenook. Ogaden. Eyelids, bill, and legs, bluish green. Iris brown. We met this handsome species first here. An adult male and one or two immature males being the only ones seen. ORDER PICIFORMES. FAM. PICID.E. 73. Dendropicus hemprichi. Picus hemprichi. H. Ehrenb. Symb. Phys. Aves, fol. r, p. 2 (1828). Dendropicus hemprichi. Hargitt, Cat. B., Brit. Mus., Vol. XVIII, p. 299 (1890). $ $ Hullier. Iris red. 9 Dagahbur. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 49 A rather rare species, only met with a few times, and the male though seen was not obtained. 74. Campothera nubica. Picus nubicus. Gm. Syst. Nat., p. 439(1788). Campothera nubica. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc. , p. 492 (1895). $ $ Mullier. Iris red. 9 Hullier. $ Laferug. e A not uncommon species in certain parts of the country, but generally wild and not often permitting one to approach it closely, very different in this respect from the other feathered inhabitants of the land. FAM. CAPITONID^:. 75. Trachyphonus shellyi. Trachyphonus erythrocephalus (nee Cab.). Shelley, Ibis, p. 394 (1885), ex Somali plateau. James, Unkn. Horn. Afr., p. 282, pi. ix. Trachyphonus shelleyi. Hartl. Isis, pp. 105, m, pi. v (1886). Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 493 (1895). $ Higlileh, Ogaden. Eyelids, feet and legs vermilion. Iris brown. 9 Higlileh, Ogaden. This species was not obtained until the Haud was passed and we had entered Ogaden. This or the succeeding species was seen by me in the country southeast of Toyo plain toward the territory of the Dolbahanti. T. Shelleyi was not common anywhere, and was met with generally in pairs. It appeared to be breeding, and usually made us aware of its presence by its loud, shrill voice, sounding almost like laughter. The attitudes of the males when near the females were very curious, and the birds both seemed to be in a state of great excitement, and paid but little attention to any one near at hand. Although not met with by me on the Haud, it seems to occur there, as Sharpe states (1. c.) that the specimen mentioned by Shelley (1. c.) was from the Somali plateau, meaning, I suppose, the Haud. 76. Trachyphonus margaritatus. Buceo margaritatus. Cretzchm. Rtipp, Atlas. Vog. , p. 30, pi. 20 (1826). 50 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. Trachyphonus margaritatus. Shelley, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. IX, p. 103 (1891). $ Robeleh. 9 Robeleh. Two specimens of this species were obtained at the above place on our return journey, and were the only ones seen that could be identified with certainty. They were sitting close together on a limb, and awoke the echoes with their loud, shrill * cries, at the same time making the most absurd contortions of the neck, wings and tail, assuming very grotesque positions. So busily engaged were they with their own affairs, that they paid no attention whatever to Mr. Dodson as he approached them, and both birds were secured at one shot. These specimens dif- fered so greatly from all those in the British Museum collection that at first I was inclined to regard them as representing a dis- tinct species, but finally decided the differences shown would be merely incidental to a phase of plumage. The two examples are black upon the back, covered thickly with white spots, the tail also black, with broad yellowish- white bars going half way to the •shaft. The specimens in the British Museum had the feathers much worn, and the black replaced by a dark brown, and the white spots were much fewer. It would be interesting to learn if the Somali bird also turns brown at any stage of its plumage, and loses the spots as the feathers become worn. 76. Barbatula affinis. Barbatula affinis. Reichen, Orn. Centralb. , p. 114 (1879), Shelley, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. p. 41. (1891). $ $ Hullier. This little Barbet was seen occasionally from the northern limit of the Haud, southwards. It was not common at any time. 77. Tricholsema stigmatothorax. Tricholaema stigmatothorax, Cab. J. f. Ornith., pp. 205, 240 (1878), Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 493 (1895). $ Le Gud. ORDER PSITTACIFORMES. FAM. PSITTACID^:. 78. Pceocephalus rufiventris. Pionus rufiventris. Riipp., Syst. Ueb., Vogel, N. O. Afr. , pp. 83, 94, t. 32 (1845). FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 51 Pceocephalus rufiventris. Salv., Cat. B. Brit. Mus. , Vol. XX, p. 372 (1891). $ Le Gud. $ Marodijeh. $ Hullier. $ juv. $ juv. Le Gud. $ 9 Le Gud. This pretty parrot was constantly met with after we reached Laferug. It goes in small flocks, is very active and restless, being always on the move, screaming both when flying or when in the tree tops. The male with his bright red abdomen is very conspicuous, and darts in and out among the trees like a flame, and is a very beautiful object, his bright underparts contrasting with the dark green foliage with fine effect. The flight is straight and very rapid, performed by quick beatings of the wings. FAM. MUSOPHAGID.E. 79. Schizorhis leucogaster. Chizcerhis leucogaster. Shelley, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. Vol. IX, p. 452 (1891). Riipp. Proc. Zool. Soc. , p. 9 (1842). $ $ juv. Haili. 9 Haili. This species was a very familiar object throughout our journey. Its large size, of course, made it very conspicuous, and its loud, harsh note resembling paap, paap, sometimes paw, paw, would disclose its presence even if the bird itself was hidden in the foliage. It goes singly or in parties of three or four, frequents the highest parts of the thorn trees, and walks among the branches, occasionally hopping from one to another. It flies with easy flappings of the wings, often sailing along for quite a distance, and with its crested head, long tail and pleasing color- ing, is one of the attractive objects met with when journeying through the land. ORDER CORACIIFORMES. FAM. CORACIID^:. 80. Coracais lorti. Coracias lorti. Shelley Ibis., p. 399 (1885). Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 496 (1895). 52 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. o? ad. Laferug. o? ad. Le Gud. 999 Hullier. This beautiful species was not at all uncommon, and many specimens could have been procured if I had been making a series. It generally was seen singly, sometimes in pairs, and would frequently sit upon a limb quietly gazing at the caravan as it passed by. When flying, the rich coloring of the back and wings made it a most beautiful object. It usually perched on a dead branch, if one was handy, and rather high up on a tree. 81. Coracias naevius. Coracias naevius. Daud. Traite". , Vol. II., p. 258 (1800). Sharpe Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XVII, p. 24 (1892). 9 Marodijeh. This handsome roller, while not so plentiful as the preceding species, was not uncommon. Both birds are noisy and pug- nacious, fighting almost any winged creature, even if much larger in size. It is not so often seen perha'ps in the more open parts of the country as is C. lorti, but is very similar in its habits and, I should imagine, in its food also. On the wing it is not so handsome as its relative. FAM. ALCEDINID.E. 82. Halcyon chelicutensis. Alcedo chelicuti. Stanley, Salt's Exp. Abyss., App. , p. Ivi (1834)- Halcyon chelicutensis. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., p. 239, Vol. XVII (1892). $ juv. Marodijeh. The only specimen procured. FAM. BUCEROTID^:. 83. Lophoceros erythrorhynchus. Buceros erythrorhynchus. Temm. PI. Col., Vol. II, sp. 19 (Text), (1823). Lophoceros erythrorhynchus. Ogilvie-Grant, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XVII, p. 409 (1892). Lophoceros medianus. Sharpe, Proc. Zool. Soc. , p. 408 (1895). $ Marodijeh. 9 Hullier. 1. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 53 This Hornbill and the next species were very common every where we traveled. It is a noisy bird, and without its voice atten- tion would be attracted to it by the white and black hues of the plumage, which make it a very conspicuous object when on the wing. It flies low, by repeated flappings and sailings, and when about to alight upon some tree, lowers its flight just before reach- ing its goal, and then rises in a graceful curve to the desired perch. I only brought the two specimens back, and I regret that more were not preserved, as they seem to throw a considerable doubt upon the validity of L. medianus, Sharpe. I compared my exam- ples with Sharpe's type, and came to the conclusion that his bird was only a female of L. erythrorhynchus, and agreed in every respect with my female specimen. Dr. Sharpe compared his bird with L. damarensis, Shelley, but the character he gives, viz. : the gray of the crown coming down almost to the base of the bill, is- one belonging to L. erythrorhynchus. I was quite unable to distinguish any difference between L. medianus and the present species, and have therefore included it among the synonyms given above. 84. Lophoceros flavirostris. Buceros flavirostris. Riipp, Faun. Abyss. Vogel, p. 6, pi. n, fig 2 (1835). Lophoceros flavirostris. Ogilvie-Grant, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. , Vol. XVII, p. 412 (1892). Sharpe, P. Z. S., p. 499 (1895). $ $ Hullier. Bill golden yellow. Iris cream color. Throat bluish-white shading into blue, then to a light purple. 9 Hullier. Bill golden yellow. Iris cream color. Throat black. Like the preceding species, the present one was met with everywhere, and was even more common than its relative. The habits of these two forms did not appear to differ in any way, and the flight was very similar. These birds are one of the char- acteristic features of the landscape, especially noticeable even in a country which in many parts was fairly alive with feathered creatures. FAM. UPUPID.E. 85. Upupa somalensis. Upupa epops senegalensis. (nee Sw.); Shelley, Ibis, p. 397 54 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM —ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. Upupa somalensis. Salv, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol, XVI, p. 13, pi. i (1892). $ Hullier. o? Haud. Iris brown. This bird, the bearer of good news, according to native belief, was frequently seen. It was rather shy in comparison to other birds, and in its flight and general habits resembled the common Hoopoo found in Egypt, India and Europe. 86. Irrisor erythrorhynchus. Promerops erythrorhynchus. Rtipp, Syst. Uebers., p. 28 (1845)- Irrisor erythrorhynchus. Salv, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XVI, p. 19 (1892). 9 Le Gud. Bill carmine. $ Hullier. 9999 Hullier. Bill orange. Iris black. This is a gregarious species frequently met with, going in flocks of perhaps as many as a dozen. When flying from tree to tree they are usually silent, but chatter vociferously as soon as they alight. They climb about the branches seeking for food, insects chiefly I imagine, and it appears they are quite indifferent whether the head is up or down, or whether the back or belly is presented to the sky. They are very active and industrious in the tree tops, and assume singular positions at times when chat- tering loudly. 87. Rhinopomastus minor. Promerops minor. Riipp, Syst. Uebers, p. 28 (1845). Rhinopomastus minor. Salv, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XVI, p. 26 (1892). $ $ Marodijeh. $ Hullier. 9 9 Hullier. This handsome and graceful bird is the noisiest creature among the feathered tribes of Somali-land. The volume of sound and the variety of notes a flock can produce is something extraordinary, and makes one at times doubtful if it all comes from a bird's throat. Occasionally there is a rolling intonation almost impossible to describe, and again it will sound like a watchman's rattle. This species goes in flocks of from six to a dozen individuals, and the noise they can make when they set FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 55 themselves seriously about it requires that one should hear it to fully comprehend their great ability in that line. Although it is charged with possessing an offensive odor, and has been called "Stinking Crow," I never found anything particularly objection- able about it, not more so than is noticeable among members of the genus Corvtts, Garrulus, etc. This species appears to great advantage when flying, its long tail and the white spots on wing and tail feathers contrasting very agreeably with the generally dark plumage. FAM. MEROPID.E. 88. Merops albicollis. Merops albicolls. Vieill, Nouv. Diet, d' Hist. Nat., Vol. XIV, p. 15 (1817). $ Berbera. Iris scarlet. This species was not common, indeed but few individuals were observed by us. 89. Melittophagus cyanostictus. Merops cyanostictus. Oust, Bibl. Haut. Etudes, Vol. XXXI, Art. 10, p. 4 (1886). Melittophagus cyanostictus. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XVII, p. 48, pi. i, fig. 3 (1892). $ Hullier. Iris red. o? Hullier. $ Hersi Barri, Ogaden. This pretty little bee-eater was frequently seen as far south as the expedition reached. Though sometimes it was observed in flocks, yet it seemed mostly to go singly or in pairs. Very swift upon the wing it was most expert in catching flying insects, often returning with its prey to the twig it had just left. 90. Melittophagus revoilii. Merops (melittophagus) revoilii, Oust, in Revoil's Faun, et Flor. Comalis, Ois., p. 5. pi. i (1886). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XVII, p. 54 (1892). $ $ Hullier. 9 Haud. Not common, and not met with before reaching the plateau south of the Golis range. 56 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. FAM. gi. Colius macrurus. Lanius macrurus, Linn. Syst. Nat. Vol. I, p. 134 (1766). Colius macrurus. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. Vol. XVII, p. 345 (1892). $ Hullier, Iris crimson. Feet, face and base of bill carmine. This attractive little bird was frequently seen flying in flocks, pursuing rapidly a straight course, and easily recognizable by the long tails streaming behind like slender lengthened straws. They usually alighted on the very tops of trees and were almost completely hidden in the foliage. They were generally quiet when on the branches which made it additionally difficult to see them amid the leaves. Also they were rather shy and did not often permit a near approach. FAM. CAPRIMULGID^;. g2. Caprimulgus donaldsoni. Caprimulgus donaldsoni. Sharpe, Brit. Orn. Club, iv. p. xxix (1895). Id., Proc., Zool. Soc., p. 503 (1895). 9 Haud. This species seemed to be rare in the country traversed, as it was only met with two or three times. It was flushed from a thicket of thorn bushes (and only those who have tried to pene- trate such places know how thick they are), where it was pass- ing the heated day. On the occasion when the specimen brought back was secured, two rose from the ground but only one was obtained. Probably the one that escaped was a male. g3. Caprimulgus nubicus. Caprimulgus nubicus. Licht. Verz. Doubl., p. 59 (1823). Hartert, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., XVI. p. 556 (1892). 9 Haud. o? Haud. Iris black, pupil white. Not uncommon, and frequently flushed from the grass, or amid clumps of bushes. On such occasions the bird would only fly a short distance and alight, sometimes on the bare open ground. ORDER STRIGES. FAM. BUBONID.E. 94. Scops capensis. Scops capensis. Smith, S. Afr. Quart. Journ., 2d Ser. , No. 4, pi. i, p. 314. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. II, p. 52 (1875). FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 57 $ Daboije. Iris golden yellow. Feet gray. 9 Daboije. Iris golden yellow. Feet gray. We only met with this species once at our second camp on the return journey north of Silo Plain. The pair flew into a tree near where the tents were being pitched, and were secured by Mr. Dodson. ORDER ACCIPITRES. FAM. FALCONID^:. 95. Astur sphenurus. Falco sphenurus. Riipp. Neue. Wirb., p. 42 (1835). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. I, p. 112 (1874). $ juv. Hullier. Eyelids, cere, iris, and legs yellow. A young male of this small hawk, the only one procured. 96. Melierax poliopterus. Melierax poliopterus. Cab., in Decken's Reis., Vol. Ill, Vog., p. 40 (1869). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. I, p. 88 (1871). $ Laferug. Cere yellow. Iris reddish brown. Legs orange. We saw this bird only occasionally. It was the single species among rapacious bird, that I had ever heard singing. Its voice is musical, and the specimen obtained was perched on a branch near the path we were traveling and attracted my attention by the low song it was, I might almost say, warbling. It was a curious accomplishment for a hawk to possess, and seemed out of place, considering the character of the race to which the per- former belonged. 97. Aquila rapax. Falco rapax. Temm., Plan. Col., Vol. I, pi. 455 (1828). Aquila rapax. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. I, p. 242(1874). Id., Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 507(1895). 9 Deregodleh. Iris gray. Cere and feet yellow. This fine eagle was very common, and quite tame, coming about the camp, often alighting close to the zareba and feeding upon any scraps of meat thrown away. It did not seem to be at all particular about the quality or state of its food, and would often drive the vultures away from a mess which it would be ex- treme courtesy to call anything else save carrion. It must be regarded in the light of a useful scavenger, and I doubt if it ever attempts to kill anything itself. 58 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. 98. Helotarsus ecaudatus. Falco ecaudatus. Daud, Traite", Vol. II, p. 54 (1800). Helotarsus ecaudatus. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. , Vol. I, p. 300 (1874). Id., Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 508 (1895). $ Haili. Cere yellow. Bill and legs rich orange. This splendid eagle was often seen flying high in air, scrutinizing the ground below. It presents a singular, though beautiful appearance on the wing, the extremely short tail and long primaries giving it the shape not unlike that of a large bat. The underside of the wings being white, they seem almost trans- parent, as the sun shines upon them, and they afford a strong contrast to the black body. When in the air, the bird sails or soars, the wings being flapped rarely, but held motionless, stretched out to their fullest extent. It is altogether the finest eagle in Somali-land. North of the Golis range it is not often seen. The specimen obtained was shot with a rifle by Mr. Akeley. 99. Poliohierax semitorquatus. Falco semitorquatus. Smith, Rep. Exp. Centr. Afr. , p. 44 (1836). Poliohierax semitorquatus. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. Vol. I, p. 370 (1874). Id., Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 510 (1895). $ Adadleh. $ Silo Plain. 9 Adadleh. Iris brown. Cere, eyelids and legs, vermilion. 9 9 Hullier. Iris brown. Cere, eyelids and legs, salmon color. 9 9 Higlileh, Ogaden. The most beautiful little hawk in the country, and one not at all uncommon, though the females appeared to far outnumber the males. 100. Cerchneis fieldi, sp. nov. $ Silo Plain. 9 Toyo Plain. This apparently very distinct species of Kestrel was seen at various times and places, mostly in the open country, seeming to prefer such localities as the plains, where the two examples brought with me were procured. It is nearest to C. rupicoloides, Smith, from South Africa, but differs in being much lighter in color generally, the dark bands on the upper surface much nar- rower, and has seven bars on the. tail instead of six. At first FEK. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLKCTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 59 • sight this bird seemed to answer the description of Tinnunculus arthuri, Gurney, the unique type of which is in the Norwich Museum, but on sending the specimens to J. H. Gurney to have them compared with the types, he replied that they were " larger than T. arthuri, a good deal more rufous on the breast and belly, and had not the conspicuously barred sides and flanks, which are the chief characteristics of the bird in the Norwich Museum." The species may be described as follows: Male. Upper parts light rufous, the head and nape streaked with narrow black lines; back and wings barred narrowly with black. Rump barred like the back, and upper tail coverts ash- gray, barred with black and tipped, with light rufous. Primaries black edged with light buff. Under-wing coverts buff with a few short narrow black lines. Throat buffy white; rest of under parts light rufous or rich buff, darkest on breast, narrowly streaked with black on breast, abdomen,' flanks and thighs. Crissum and under tail coverts pale buff, immaculate. Tail ash-gray with seven bars of black, the subterminal on all but the outermost being in width nearly one-fifth the length of the feathers and tipped narrowly on the central pair with rufous, broadly on the others with buffy white. The outermost feather is buffy white barred with black. The tail therefore is darkest in the center, growing lighter to- wards the outer feather. Bill pale blue. Legs and feet yellow. Total length of skin 12.50 inches. Wing, 9.40. Tail, 6.20. Culmen, along curve, .77. Tarsus, 1.50. Female. Resembles the male and is about the same size, but has the upper part of the flanks narrowly barred with black, in this respect leaning towards the characteristic markings of T. arthuri. It gives me pleasure to call this species after Marshall Field, Esq. , whose name this institution bears, and who is its most liberal patron. FAM. VULTURID^E. 101. Lophogyps occipitalis. Vultur occipitalis. Burch, Trav. , Vol. II, p. 329 (1824). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. I, p. 15 (1874). $ Mandera. This fine vulture was not uncommon, coming about the camp in considerable numbers, most of the individuals however, were birds in immature plumage, those with white heads, thighs and 60 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. lower parts being comparatively few. On the wing it moved majes- tically and a flock of these birds soaring high in air was a beau- tiful sight. FAM. GYPOGERANID^:. 102. Serpentarius secretarius. Vultur secretarius. Shaw, Cim. Phys. pi. 28 (1796). Serpentarius secretarius. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus. , Vol. I, p. 45 (1874). $ Silo Plain. One specimen seen and obtained at Silo on the return journey. It was very wary and was killed by Mr. Akeley with a rifle ball at a distance of about five hundred yards. FAM. 103. Lophotis gindiana. Eupodotis gindiana. Oust. Bull. Soc. Philom., p. 163 (1881). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIII, p. 292 (1894). $ $ Laferug. Iris yellow. 9 Haili. This small bustard was frequently met with, and seemed par- ticularly plentiful in the country south of Toyo Plain. It was generally found in pairs, though often singly, and would flush close to us as we walked or rode. Its flight was very much like that of a duck, and it had a peculiar cry of various syllables, each one uttered in a higher key than the last, ending in a lengthened one that was almost a screech. The flesh of this bird is fairly good, but all feathered creatures in the country save weaver birds, for reasons best known to themselves are tough, and not much of an addition to the larder. 104. Lissotis hartlaubi. Otis hartlaubi. Heugl. Journ. f. Ornit., p. i (1863). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIII, p. 307 (1894). $ Silo Plain. Iris brownish yellow, eyelids yellow. Bill and legs, cream color. Only two specimens of this fine bustard were seen, and these were met with on Silo Plain on the return journey. They were very shy and skulked about in the grass with the head carried low down in the manner of rails. Mr. Dodson tried several days to get within shooting distance of the birds, but ineffectually, and I FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 61 then suggested that Mr. Akeley should lie down some distance ahead on the plain, and Dodson should flush the birds, which in their flight might go near enough to the oue in ambush for a shot. The ruse was successful and the specimen obtained was brought down at long range. It is a very handsome bird, and never be- fore, I believe, procured in Somali land. 105. Trachelotis canicollis. Otis canicollis. Reichen. Orn. Centralbl., p. 79 (1881). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIII, p. 309 (1894). $ Shilmaleh, near Toyo Plain. Iris brown, legs white. 9 Shilmaleh, near Toyo Plain. This, the third species of bustard procured, was obtained at a mid-day camp north of Toyo on our return to Adadleh. The pair were together and flushed amid some trees and bushes near where we stopped for lunch. A few more were seen in other places, but it seemed to be a rather rare species in the country. Two other species of bustards were seen by us but not obtained, the Great Bustard, O. tarda, and the Lesser Bustard, probably T. tetrax, but I never could get near enough to it to be sure that it was correctly identified. ORDER LIMICOL.E. FAM. 106. /Edicnemus affinis. ^Edicnemus affinis. Riipp. Mus. Senck., Vol. II, p. 210(1837). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 17 (1896). 9 near Berbera. Occasionally met with at various points on our journey, but nowhere common. FAM. CURSORIID^:. 107. Dromas ardeola. Dromas ardeola. Paykull K. Vet. Akad. Handl. Stockh. XXVI, pp. 182, 188, Tab. 8 (1805). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 28 (1896). $ Berbera. Shot out of a flock on the seashore, and the only time the species was seen. 62 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. 108. Cursorius somalensis. Cursorius gallicus somalensis. Shelley, Ibis, p. 415 (1885). Cursorius somalensis. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, P- 37- $ Dagahbur, Ogaden. Iris brown. Legs white. 9 juv. Daboyeh, Ogaden. Very rare and only seen two or three times. The young bird is light buff generally, almost white on abdo- men and lower tail coverts. Feathers of top of head have termi- nal black spots. Back and wings barred with blackish-brown. Throat whitish. Tail buff barred with brownish-black. Slight superciliary stripe, buff. 109. Rhinoptilus hartingi. Rhinoptilus hartingi. Sharpe, Bull. Orn. Club, No. in, p. xiv (1893). Id. Cat., B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 46 (1896). 9 9 Toyo Plain. 9 Silo Plain. Not uncommon in open localities, generally going in pairs. no. Rhinoptilus cinctus. Cursorius cinctus. Heugl. , Syst. Uebers, p. 54 (1856). Id., Orn. N. O. Afr., Vol. Ill, pi. i, p. 792 (1873). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 46 (1896.) $ Haud. Iris brown, eyelids yellow. Legs creamy white. $ Dagahbur. Iris brown, eyelids yellow. Legs creamy white. Always met with in pairs, usually among clumps of bushes. Very difficult to see when on the ground, as the birds remain perfectly motionless until you are almost on them, when they rise and with an awkward, ungainly flight, 'flap along a short dis- tance and alight in a similar place to that from which they were disturbed. It was always a surprise to me to flush these birds, as the localities they frequented seemed so much more suitable for a member of the Rasores than one of the Limicolae, and it was a curious sight to see these long-winged birds flopping up from places many miles removed from any water. FAM. CHARADRIID^:. in. Stephanibyx coronatus. Charadrius coronatus. Bodd. Tab. PI. Enl., p. 49 (1783). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. -XXIV, p. 178 (1896). $ $ Hullier. Legs and bill coral pink. 9 Hullier. FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 63 This was one of the most familiar species met with. It appeared to be generally distributed about the country, and was always drawing attention to itself by incessantly screaming when on the wing. On the ground, they usually were silent, running a short distance and then standing motionless regarding the intruder on their domains. The instant however they took wing, they began to utter their shrill cry, and never ceased their clatter until they again alighted. They were heard during the day, and also at all times of the night, vociferating their dis- pleasure at anything, whether man or beast, that disturbed them in their avocations. 112. Oxyechus tricollaris. Charadrius tricollaris. Vieill. Nouv. Diet. d'Hist. Nat., Vol. XXVII, p. 147 (1818). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 247 (1896). 9 9 Las Durban. Iris light brown, eyelids vermilion. Legs yellow ochre. Only met with on the seashore near Berbera. 1^3. Terekia cinerea. Scolopax cinerea. Giildenst. Nov. Comm. Petrop. , Vol. XIX, p. 473, pi. 19 (1774). Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 474 (1896). $ $ $ Berbera. Killed out of a flock upon the beach near Berbera. 114. Limonites minuta. Tringa minuta. Leisl in Bechst. Natuurg. Deutschl. Nachtr. Vol. I, p. 74 (1812). Limonites minuta. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 538 (1896). $ Berbera. Obtained on the beach at Berbera. 115. Pelidna alpina. Tringa alpina. Linn. Syst. Nat., Vol. I, p. 249 (1766). Pelidna alpina. Sharpe, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXIV, p. 602 (1896). $ Berbera. On the beach at Berbera. 64 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. ORDER LONGIPENNES. FAM. LARID^E. 116. Larus hemprichi. Adelarus hemprichi. Bruch, Jour. f. Orn., p. 106 (1853). Larus hemprichi. Saund, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 193 (1878). $ Berbera. Common along the coast. ORDER COLUMBIFORMES. FAM. PERISTERID.E. 117. Turtur lugens. Columba lugens. Riipp. Neue. Wirbelth, p. 64, t. 22, f. 2 (1835-40). Turtur lugens. Salv., Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXI, p. 408 (1893)- $ Marodijeh. $ Hullier. 9 Marodijeh. Met with along the northern border of the Haud, but not plentiful. 118. Turtur senegalensis. Columba senegalensis. Linn. Syst. Nat., Vol. I, p. 283, No. 26 (1766). Turtur senegalensis. Salv., Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXI, p. 448 (1893). $ Hullier. Iris gray. Legs carmine. 9 Laferug. A not uncommon species. 119. Turtur roseogriseus. Columba roseogriseus. Sund. Krit. Om. Levaill. , p. 44 (1857). Salv., Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXI, p. 429 (1893). $ Hullier. Very common, found everywhere we traveled, sometimes in very large flocks. I have seen these birds in the early morning about sunrise congregate in great numbers upon the trees, as if holding a council on some important matters. At all times of the day this species would be in sight, and it was constantly pass- ing in rapid flight, always moving in a straight course, taking the FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 65 most direct route from one point to another. Several times we had these and other species of dove served at table, but usually found them rather tough and without flavor. Sometimes even stewing would not make them tender. 120. Turtur damarensis. Turtur damarensis. Finsch & Hartl, Vog. Ost Afr. , p. 550 (1870). Salv., Cat. B. Birds, Brit. Mus., Vol. XXI, p. 426 (1893). o? Le Gud. Like the previous species, which it closely resembles, the pres- ent one was always plentiful. When flying, or even when on the trees, it was difficult, if not impossible, to distinguish the one from the other, and the species could be identified only when in the hand. It goes in flocks, and individuals are constantly seen speeding through the air. 121. jfEna capensis. Columba capensis. Linn., Syst. Nat., Vol. I, p. 286, No. 39 (1766). ^Ena capensis. Salv., Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXI, p. 501 (1893). 9 9 Dagahbur. Iris brown. Legs purple. This graceful little dove was quite common, and was always an attractive object, hurling itself along with almost the speed of a bullet, the long tail adding grace to the trim form, as like a meteor it flashed by. 122. Chalcopelia afra. • Columba afra. Linn, Syst. Nat., Vol. I, p. 284, No. 31 (1766). Chalcopelia afra. Salv., Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXI, p. 506 (1893). $ Le Gud. Iris brown. Legs and bill purple. < ORDER PTEROCLETES. FAM. PTEROCLID^:. 123. Pteroclurus exustus. Pterocles exustus. Temm. PI. Col. Vol. V, pis. 28, 29 (1815). Pteroclurus exustus. Ogilvie-Grant, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXII, p. 12 (1893). J1 $ Berbera. 9 Deregodleh. 66 FIELD COLUMBIAN MUSEUM — ORNITHOLOGY, VOL. i. Seen occasionally in small flocks coming to and going from water in the morning and evenings. Numbers were in the habit of visiting a small ditch on the beach at Berbera, which received the overflow of water from a large cistern, and specimens could be obtained there without difficulty as they flew in to drink. FAM. TETRAONID^:. 124. Francolinus granti. Francolinus granti. Hartl, Proc. Zool. Soc., p. 665, pi. 39, fig. i (1865). Ogilvie-Grant, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXII, p. 148 (1893). $ Le Gud. $ Hullier. Grant's Francolin is a very noisy bird, and its chattering note is frequently heard throughout the day, but especially in the early mornings and evenings. It is a shy bird and, keeps as much as possible out of sight of any one intruding upon its retreats, retiring among the thickest shrubbery it can find, and trusting more upon its legs than wings as a means of escape. It is difficult to flush, except when surprised in open ground. The flesh is not especially tender or well flavored, even to a hunter's appetite, and we generally hung the birds in the shade for a day or so before cooking. It appeared to be a plentiful species, especially as we penetrated into the country, though at no time did we meet any large flock, six or eight individuals being about the maximum number. 125. Pternistes infuscatus. Pternistes infuscatus. Cat. Jour. f. Orn., p. 413(1868). Ogilvie- Grant, Cat. B. Brit. Mus., Vol. XXII, p. 182 (1893). $ Haili. Bare skin of face and throat Indian red, abruptly changing to yellow on neck. Iris brown. $ Le Gud. 9 Le Gud. We met with this species about everywhere we traveled. It was tame and unsuspicious, and would feed about camp, and did not seem to mind remaining in the open away from any thick cover. It, like the preceding, is a noisy species, and its loud notes were constantly heard. When flushed it would rise with the whir, characteristic of gallinaceous birds, and go away in a straight course, and its large size and steady flight made it an FEB. 1897. EAST AFRICAN COLLECTION OF BIRDS — ELLIOT. 67 easy mark. The coloring of the bare skin on face and throat, extending even upon the upper neck, in life is very bright and beautiful. In the dry skin this disappears into a uniform dull yellow, and gives no idea of the gradation of the beautiful red of the upper portion into the clear lemon-yellow of the lower. When walking this bird carries its tail rather low, and has an arched back, making an outline similar to that of a guinea fowl. We did not find the flesh of this species any better than that of other birds we tried, in fact, in the majority of cases it was most decidedly tough and flavorless. It is a handsome creature though, and I always took much pleasure in watching the birds as they wandered about the camp. We shot but few, for it would have been wasteful slaughter to kill them, as we did not care much for them as an article of food, and had not the facili- ties for carrying away skins for specimens.