^^if w^ ,^!'i^m?^^ * Ji *■ :.w' V y- fc>«^^ r 1^ •rt f.^'^i V,:v ■^^/^^:^^i;MllS::::. ^•Sd^ !;<,•''> 4 \' FOR THE PEOPLE FOR EDVCATION FOR SCIENCE LIBRARY OF THE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY v- I n r. ^ n y /^ The Emu Ly ■^^m- A Quarterly Magazine to popularise the Study and Protection of Native Birds. OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS' UNION. „ c^.* f A. J. CAMPBELL, CoL Mem. B.O.U. (Acting) Hon. Editor.;^ ^^ CAMPBELL. VOL. VI I. -1907-8. WALKER, MAY & CO., PRINTERS, 25 MACKILLOP STREET. London Agent : K. H. PORTER, 7 Pkinces Stkekt, Cavknuisii Souare, W. 1908. I^UIM \f(J^iS'y-<^yU-fe^' CONTEXTS OF VOL. VII.— 1907-8. Abnormal Season, An, 90. Abrclhos, The, 197. Acanthornis magna, 92. Addenda and Corrigenda, 209. Additions to tlie Avifauna of the County of Cumberland (N.S. \Y.), 103. Alexandra Parrakeet, 47. Annotations, 91. Ararat District, Hirds of, 18. Australasian Birds in the Breslau Zoo- logical Gardens, 190. Australasian Ornithologists' Union, Sydney Session, 121 ; Financial Statement, 124 ; Vice-Presidential Address, 126; Hon. Secretary's Report, 136. Australian Birds, New, 197. Autumn Outing, An, 97. Bee-eater, The, 87. Bird Illustrations, 169. Bird-Life on the Buffalo Momitains in March, 40. Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago, i. Bird Observers' Club, 62, 115, 166. Bird Sanctuary, An Ideal, 108. Birds from North-Wesl Australia, 138. Birds Found Breeding near Mackay, North Queensland, 171. Birds Identified in New South Wales during the Seventh Session of the A.O.U., 184. Birds in the Vicinity of Break-o'-Day District, Tasmania, 142. Birds Occurring in Areas 8 and 9 of Australia, not given in Hall's " Key," 99. Birds of Boroondaro, 159. Birds of Spencer Gulf, 159. Birds of the Carpentaria Region, 106. Birds of the Philippine Islands, 198. " Birds of the Weddell aud Adjacent Seas, Antarctic Ocean," 106. Black-cheeked Falcon and Pigeons, 41. Black Swans Nesting, 87. Bristle-Bird, Rufous, 87. British Museum, 118. Bronze-wing Pigeon, 47. Bulletin of the British Ornithologists' Club, 103. Butcher-Birds Fight, 89. Caconiautis insperatus, Eggs of the, 106. Call-Bird, The, 109. Cape Barren Geese, 36. Clarke Island (Ba.ss Strait) Notes, 191. Cleveland (Tasmania) Migration Notes, 118. Coach whip- Piird, 47. Cockatoo, Tiic While, 118. Collector's Difficulties, 169. Collector's Experience, An Ex-Victorian, 32. Correspondence, 61, iii, 165. Crows f. Ravens, 112. Cuckoo, The, 163. Cuckoos and Crows, 87. Cuckoos (Two) Reared in One Nest, 37. Do Birds Reason ? 38. Drongo-Shrike, The Spangled, 178. Eagles, 37. Emu, Nomenclature of the, 45. " Feathered Immigrants," 160. Fields of Research, Some, in. Fifteen Thousand Acres, On : its Bird- Life Sixty Years Ago, i. Finch, Australian, in England, 197. Finch, Gouldian, 50. Finch, Yellow-rumped, 105, 117. Finches and Cuckoos, 187. Finches, Chestnut-breasted and Yellow- rumped, 51. Finches, Gouldian, in the P'ield, 104. Food of the Birds, 79. Forgotten Feathers, 45, lOl, 193. From Magazines, &c., 47, 102, 159, 197. Furneaux Group, Bass Strait, A Visit to, 181. " Galdens," a/m.f Gauldings, loi, 170. Great I'arrier Reef, A Visit to, 176. H abits of the Birds-of- Paradise and Bower- Birds of British New Guinea, 103. Halcyon sancius and Alcyone azurea, 89. "Handlist to the Birds of Australasia," 170. Heronries, A Visit to, 65. Herons, More About, 152 Honey-eater, New, 47. Hybridisation, 48. Japanese Birds, 200. yotirnal of the South African Orni- thologists' Union, 102 Kagu, The, of New Caledonia, 197. Kermadec Islands, Expedition to, 209. " Key (A) to the Birds of Australia," 155 Kingfisher, Brown, and Snake, 155. Kinglisher, Great Brown, in Tasmania, 119. Lyre-Bird, A Confiding, 104. Lyre-Bird, The, 94. Lyre- Birds, 107. l.aunceston (Tasmanian) Notes, 158. Magi)ie, A Vicious, 197. Magpie, Characteristic Traits of the Tas- manian, 189. Magpies or Crow-Shrikes, 81. Mallee (Victoria) Notes, 52, 162. Malurus, A Rare, 155. Contents of Vol. VII. — 1907-8. Melbourne Zoo Notes, 187. Migration, Have Birds Fixed Routes in? 38. Mount Arthur, A Trip to, 159. Mutton-Birds, 187. Mutton Birds, Traffic in, 119. Nagambie District (Vict.), Bird- Life in the, 104. National Parks, 161. Native Bird Protection Association, 161. Nesting Places, Queer, 157. New Zealand Avifauna, The, 198. North- Western Birds, 103. Notes and Notices, 1 17, 168, 208. Nightjar with 'licks, 186 Obituary Notice — Professor Alfred New- ton, 113, 168. Oological Collections, Exchange of, 118. Oology, 168. Owls and their Prey, 187. Parrakeets, Yellow-breasted, 103. Parrot Pest in Orchards, 199. Parrots, Australian, at the Crystal Palace Show, 48. Partridge-Pigeons, 159. Petrels, A Monograph of the, 169. Photographhig Herons' Nests, 88. Pigeon (New) for Australia, 197. Platycercus adclaidir in England, 160. Platycercus xanthogciiys a Good Species, 117. Plumed -Doves, 49. Plundered for their Plumes, 71. Poison Again, 102. President of the A.O.U. Abroad, 210. Protection of Native Game, 61. Publications, New, 118. Publications Received, 64, 213. Quails, Concerning, 49. Record Clutch of Struthidca's Eggs, 188 Reference Note, 118. Regent- Bird, 48. Reviews — " Supplement to 'The Birds of New Zealand,' " 54 ; " Wild Life in Australia," 58 ; " Nests and Eggs of Birds Found Breeding in Australia and Tasmania," no; " How to Sex Cage Birds," 164 ; "From Range to Sea," 164; " Catalogue and Data of the Jack- sonian Oological Collection," 201 ; " A Monograph of the Petrels," 205 ; " Birds of Britain," 207. Robins in Autumn, 38. Rosella and Crimson Parrakeets, 95- San Francisco Earthquake, The, 1 68. Scone (N.S.W.) Notes, 157. Seth-Smith, ]Mr. David, 210. Snipe Feed, How, 199. South Australian Ornithological Associa- tion, 63, 116, 167, 207. Stone- Plover, Antics of the Southern, 188. Stone-Plover in Tasmania, 36. Stray Feathers, 36, 87, 155, 186. Swallows, 118. Swan Eggs, Destroying, 117. Swifts, Nesting Place of Australian, 73. Syncccus atistralis in New Zealand, 104, 165, i66. Talbragar River, N. S.W. , Field-Notes on Birds from, 28, 74. Tasnianian Birds, Some, 39. Tasmanian Fauna, 105. Tastnanian Naturalist, The, 1 60. Torrens Lake, The Avifauna of, 53. Townsend River, N.W. Australia, Notes on a Collection of Birds from, 25. Tree-runners, The Habits of, 37. Useful Birds, 88. Wedge-tailed Eagle and Lambs, 43. Wild Ducks Poisoned, 102. Wilniot, Tasmania, Bird Notes from, 23. Yellow-breasted Robin, 47. Zosterops, New Variety of, 35. ILLUSTRATIONS IN VOL. VII. (i) Belt of Sheoaks (G?j-«w). (2) (Z\w\\\\> o{ '^o^ {Eucalyptus) plate i Eagle Rocks ... ... ... ... ... ... plate ii Pool on Jackson's Creek ... ... ... ... ... plate ill Nests of White-fronted Heron ... ... ... ... plate iv Brooding Fliiined Egret ... ... ... ... ... plate v Nest of Plunicd Egret — Locality of Heronry ... ... ... plate vi Young Egrets ... ... ... ... ... ... plate vii Starveling ligrets ... ... ... .. ... ... plate viii Kegon Waterfall, Japan ... ... ... ... ... plate ix Colonel-Surgeon C. .S. Ryan ... ... ... ... plate x Nests of Night-Heron ... ... ... ... ... plate .\i Tlie late Professor Alfred Newton ... ... ... ... plate xii Nest of Brown Flycatcher, with Egg of Square-billed Cuckoo ... plate xiii Nest of Rifle-I5ird ... ... ... ... ... plate xiv Site of Rifle-Bird's Nest in Booyong Scrub ... ... ... plate xv THii Emu, Vol. Vlf. PLATE I. •?v, (Official ©rgau of the .Australasian ©rnithologists' Enion. " BirUs of a featbcr.' Vol. VII.] 1ST JULY, 1907. [Part i. On Fifteen Thousand Acres: its Bird^Life Sixty- Years Ago. By Isaac Batey, Drouin, Victoria. Description of Area. The area under consideration is situated some 20 miles north- west of Melbourne, and is part of that extensive rich pastoral country that attracted the first settlers in Victoria's early colonial history. Through it lay the main route to the central goldfields, that were discovered in 1851 and thronged with hundreds of thousands of fortune-seekers from all quarters of the globe. My early field observations extend back to 1846, when, as a young man on my father's station, I roamed the country far and wide. Most of the area is of basaltic origin, and the higher land to the rear marks the position whence, from great fissures and volcanic vents, the ancient lava poured out south- ward as far as Melbourne and Geelong. The subterranean hills of this ancient gold-bearing rock are shown in many places along the creek sides, where the water action has cut down through the superincumbent beds of lava, and exposed them to view. Timber was not plentiful on the basalt, though on the Silurian ridges to the north, and thence inland, the forests of eucalypts were dense. My area and my list of birds have been influenced by this silurian country, for therefrom the lava fields received their first supply of vegetation and of bird life in past times, and from there in the present certain species of birds make annual or periodic incursions on to what is not essentially their true habitat. Bounded on the east by Emu Creek, on the west by Mt. Alexander road, the 15,000 acres possess a fine watercourse, Jackson's Creek flowing east through the centre of the block. The course of this stream is nicely timbered with a variety of eucalypts, wattle, with other scrubs, fringing the banks of the stream. Belts of sheoaks {Casnarina) on the uplands above, extend along each side of tlie river, one a mile long, the other about 4 miles in length, in [jarts a mile wide, and forming a dense forest. This last forestry was on Glencoe station, taken up by Baticv, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. luly Messrs. Edward and John William Page in 1836. Besides sheoaks on Glencoe, there were clumps of white, yellow, and spotted box {Eucalyptus), and three or four small patches of mallee-like scrub. The course of Emu Creek was timbered like that of Jackson's Creek. The greater portion of the 15,000 acres was plain, with odd trees dotted around. Thus, all these things considered, the block was, in earlier times, a paradise for a variety of birds, many of which, owing to the destruction of trees, have now left the district. Some species have become extinct a long way outside of the territory selected for this paper. BIRDS OF PREY. Wedcie-tailed Eagle {Uroaetus audax). — This great bird was very numerous in 1846. Shot-guns could have reduced it in a very slight degree ; good rifles would, but we did not use that kind of firearm those days. Though Eagles were ever so plentiful, my tally was only four. I do not suppose my late father accounted for more than six in his day. When strychnine was introduced, however, it rapidly balanced accounts with these destructive birds. During the lambing of 1850, on the Emu Creek, my father poisoned dead lambs, and by the time dropping was finished I had 14 of the great birds laid in a row. It was ascertained that an Eagle's method of killing a young lamb was to drive its posverful talons through the skull of the defenceless creature. The bird then stood on the victim, broke into the fore part, and, working to the rear, if undisturbed, stripped the flesh, leaving only skin and skeleton. My e.xperience of Wedge-tails covers a lifetime, yet I never saw one attempt to fly ofl" with a young lamb, though at that stage it is a light weight. Lambing takes place before Eagles begin nesting, consequently when a lamb was killed there was no necessity to carry it away. In later times it was discovered Eagles had nested in tall trees in gullies in Brodie's Forest.* Evidently these bulky structures last for a great number of years. In proof how destructive Eagles were, in 1850 1 had charge of a strong mob containing lambs from three days to six weeks old. One morning, reaching my flock after sunrise, a brace of lambs lay dead, with the birds standing on them ; several other Wedge-tails were on the scene. If they had been left to follow their inclinations the probabilities are that each bird would have slain a lamb. Sea-Eaule {Haliactus Icucogastcr). — It was during 1851 that one of these magnificent birds appeared on Jackson's Creek, where it remained a con- siderable time. It is the same bird we find in Riverina, where in the sixties one that had been shot was examined, after which another was seen seven miles south of Hay. Whistling Eagle {Haliasiur sphcnurus). — This large Hawk casually visited the locality in autumn or winter, and feasted on dead carcasses. It has a plaintive whistling voice. My father named it the "Thick-headed Hawk." Hlack-cheekeu Falcon {Falco >ne/aiiogenys).—My opinion is that, for rapidity of flight, this bird cannot be excelled. I have noticed it taking exercise— headlong plunges downwards and then shooting up vertically, ft was somewhat rare our way, and was supposed to nest in the Eagle Rocks, situated on our run. The clift"in question is the finest on Jackson's Creek. Magpies, though very courageous, feared this Falcon greatly, for, from observation, when other birds raised alarm cries on its apj^oach, the Mag- pies consulted their own safety. Those years Musky Lorikeets, following up * .SiUiatcd to the suutli of Jackson's (Jieuk. Till-, Emu, rw. /'//. PLATE II. Vol. VII. -| 1Q07 J B.\TKV, Hire/- Life Sixty Years Ago. gum blossom, passed in droves. When pursued they endeavoured to escape by mounting aloft, but their enemy, shooting above them, darted downwards and pinned one with his strong talons. The poor thing screamed until the Falcon silenced it by a nip on the head with his sharp bill. Once after sundown a horde of Ravens was seen, perhaps a hundred yards in the air, when suddenly a Black-cheeked Falcon shot straight up and caught one, but, the prey being too heavy, the captor fell with it to the ground at an angle of 45 degrees. We ran over, and the F;dcon took flight, but the victim was stone dead — killed, I think, with a hard squeeze across the back. It is up- wards of 20 years since this grand Falcon was noted in the old locality ; the last pair seen was at the Hanging Rock, where presumably they nested. Black Falcon {Falco nigcr'). — This Hawk seems to be widely distributed, because I have seen it on the Old Man Plain in Riverina, where on one occasion I saw it take a Quail that was flushed as I rode along. In this case the Falcon appeared to strike the quarry with his breastbone, stunning it, then, wheeling about, picked it up. The Black Falcon, unlike his grey brother, affects the plains, and if you are riding, walking, or driving stock, should a Quail rise, to your surprise a Falcon often comes from behind you like a flash. The Black Falcon was a rare bird of old in my part. Twenty years must have elapsed since one was noted ; still 1 suppose it will be met with about Rockbank. Goshawk (^j-//^/- approximaiis). — This handsome bird is still a frequent visitor, yet at no time was it plentiful. Apparently its favourite haunt is the course of a stream. Once it was observed on Jackson's Creek hunting rabbits under bushes. This Hawk is to be met with in this part of (^ippsland (Drouin), but I do not recollect seeing it on the Murrumbidgee, where I was previously stationed. Sparrow-Hawk {Accipitcr cirrhoccplialus). — Always a rare casual ; tlie last one seen was near Woodend. Brown Hawk {Hieracidea oricnlalis). — Still a permanent on the old location ; nests there yet ; never saw it hunting. Long since, by the side of a nest, a dead snake was seen, hung on a branch. This harmless Hawk is ruthlessly shot by excursionists from Melbourne. Nankekn Kestrel {Cerchneis cenchroides). — This bird nested every year on our station ; perhaps owing to introduced .Sparrows and Starlings taking up the few hollow spouts, it does not breed there now. It still appears, and is found in the Drouin region. Once I saw it peep into a hole in a tree branch where a White-rumped Wood-Swallow had her nest in Riverina. The Kestrel evidently saw there was only one plan to secure the sitting bird, so, thrusting his long leg down the aperture, he pulled the poor thing out. Harrier {Circus gouldt).—':^i\\\ an annual visitant, nesting in growing crops ; and noted on the Murrumbidgee, where its nest was found in a swamp. This bird breeds at Drouin. Four young are evidently one brood. Letter-wincjkd Kite {Elaiius scriplits). — Ahoui 1888 I saw a bird of this species at Toolern (Melton Shire) and three near Mt. Macedon. One of the latter was shot, and its identity established. It would ajjpcar to be the rarest of the Hawk tribe in above region. Black-shouldered Kite (/i/a/ius a.ri7/«ir/s).— One season in Newham Shire some of these Kites appeared, and their identity was proved. They and the previous species seemed to be out of bounds thereabouts. White (Goshawk {Asfur 7io7i(r-hoU?-/i(ini/'/uis).---^e&n once or twice in Glencoe sheoaks. Still found at (iisborne, Newham, and adjacent timbered lands. Very tame in Riverina. The kitchen had two doors opposite each other ; the cook out, one bird looked in, ran through, the others followed. Permanent formerly in Brodie's Forest. ol. VII.l 1907 J Batey, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. Oriole (Oriohts 7>irtdis).—A rare visitor on ancient location, where it never made a long stay. Saw two young ones able to fly at Mt. William, near Lancetield, beginning of 1869. Old bird found some insect atlaclied to pendulous eucalypt leaves. Being unable to pull it off, she let her feet go and swung backwards and forwards to wrench it awa\'- Macpik-Lark {Csralliiia /^/tv^Az). — Continues to breed at Redstone Hill. I find it distributed over a large area of Victoria. As an insectivorous bird to me it seems to be unrivalled. It should be rigorously protected. I'nder no circumstances have I known it to attack fruit. If undisturbed it seems to court the society of man, for in pines not 30 yards from the back dour of my sister's house near Drouin a pair are in the habit of nesting annually. Besides this Magpie-Lark a Black-and-White Fantail, a Harmonious Shrike-Thrush, and a Yeliow-rumped .\canthiza nested in the same clump of pines. Grrv Shrike-Thrush {Collyriociucla /iarino?ricn). — A constant visitor on Jackson's Creek, never in numbers ; appears to remain throughout winter and spring. Probably breeds ; if so, never saw its nest. If undis- turbed becomes very tame. A Thrush came about and picked up scraps just outside the door at Redstone Hill. One day the bird, seizing a piece of entrail, laid it on the end of a loose rail and pulled at fat. Not finding the hold good it moved the entrail to a splintered end of the rail, where it held, and the bird pulled off the morsel. Black-faced Cuckoo-Shrike {Graucalus mclanops).— IK constant visitor ; has nested at Redstone Hill. This bird devours grapes. Brown Flycatcher {Microeca fascinans). — Fairly frecjuent. Called the " Peter-peter" bird, from its sweet call. Red-capped Robin {Petra'ca gflodc}io'/ta'n/Lra).~ From 1846 to 1906 a constant visitor, arriving with us about the last week in March or the first week in April. The Flame-breasted males, with their lady followers, do not seem to appear in such numbers on the area as they did formerly. I do not think this is due to a diminishing of numbers, but is owing to the fact that agriculture has extended their feeding grounds, consequently they spread about more than they used to do. I never knew this Robin to nest in our vicinity. Scarlet-bkeasted Robin {Pctnrca legoU). — Visits the old squatting stations yet, but never at any time numerous. A pair, male and female, was seen in 1906. This is a very ornate bird, with a red breast, black back, white cap, and white on wings. Pl\K-BREASTEO RoBIN {Pctni'ca rluniinoi^dstni).- During the winter of 1854 a Robin, one solitary bird, took up its quarters in a small patch of scrub on Jackson's Creek. To the best of recollection its back was blue-black, while the breast was a claret red, and it had very little white above nostrils. I saw a bird of the same kind at Mt. Macedon. They are scrub-loving birds. Hooded Robin {Pctnvca /)ico!or).—Or\ Redstone Hill and Olencoe for years it could be met with at any time. Its favourite haunt was in sheoaks — never seen out of them. But the wholesale destruction of casuarinas apparently affected a change in former habits. The last pair noted on ijnu Creek was close to the water's edge. Never saw their nests, yet no floubl they bred with us. Blue Wren {Malurus cyu/ieus).— Ever present, judging from long Batkv, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. [,^t Emu July observation this bird has increased. At Diggers' Rest, one mile from Jackson's Creek, they nested in a boxthorn hedge at the back of a house. On the Creek Bkie Wrens are very tame —pick up crumbs about the yard, pick meat off bones, and if no person is about, and a door be left open, boldly enter a room. Have caught them and clipped their tails, when it was found that they came again as usual. Black-AND-Whitk Fantail {R/n'pidurn tricolor). — This species has a very wide range. In Riverina it is known as the " Shepherd Bird." Always to be seen at Jackson's Creek, and continues to nest there. An albino once took up its quarters in garden. We as young folks were very proud of this unique bird, but one day its feathers were discovered : the rascally house cats had destroyed it. White-shafted Fantail {RJiipidura albiscapd). — Still constant, though I never knew it to breed with us. Once saw its nest on Mt. Macedon, not far from Camel's Hump. Shining Flycatcher {Myiao^ra nitida). — I have fallen in with not more than half a dozen. It is a rare bird, is only seen while the migrating season lasts, and is found singly in tall trees. Restless Flycatcher {Sisiira inquietd). — From 1846 and some years later this bird was frequently met with, though not numerous. It dis- appeared prior to i860. My duties as rabbit inspector at Gisborne for two years took me over every inch of that shire, and I was at Newham for some months. Throughout, in the careful exploration of both localities, 1 never located a Sisura. Going by two years ago one bird was seen at Redstone Hill. Ground-Thrush {Gcocichla liwulata'). — Though continually moving about Jackson's Creek after Ducks or fish, it was not till 1870, as near as can be minded, that this handsome bird became known to us. Since then it has shown itself rarely. 1 have chanced on solitary Ground-Thrushes on those parts of the stream where small patches of scrub still exist near the edge of the water. The 1870 specimen was pronounced by Mr. W. J. S. Bowie to be the same species that frequented the Yarra near the Asylum when his father had charge of that institution. In all I do not suppose over half a dozen have appeared since 1870, one of which was taken in a rabbit trap. The scrubs of Mt. Macedon are haunted by this bird, for in my explorations there it has been frequently met with. Satin Bower-Bird {P/i/o?wrhy/!c/iiis violaceus). — This with us in early times could be put down as a frequent bird, appearing in autumn or early winter months, and on rare occasions made a long stay. The last at Redstone Hill was in 1851, when a small party arrived, amongst which was a mature blue-black male bird, the first seen on the place. Since 185 1 this Bower-Bird has not visited the area, neither has it to my knowledge been met with in the region round about. The Hurst family, on the old cattle station at Diamond Creek, not far from Melbourne, 40 years ag''o informed me that the Bower-Birds visited that line of country, where they attacked fruit. E.MU-Wren {^Stipiturus malachtirns).- Rather out of bounds ; only seen once, at Bald Hill, in rushy grass. Noticed in swampy covers at Mt. Macedon. Little Grass-Bird {Meij:;aliiri(s orai)iineiis).~ h.\\ occ?ciw\rA\ bird. The grass swamp, where it lives, when wind-stirred, gives forth a weird sound, but if the weather is dull and this bird gives forth its plaintive whistle the two combined are quite melancholy. Short-hilled Trkr-Tit {Smicromis l)rc7'irosfris).—¥\om 1846 up to about 1854 a permanent, in parties of four or five, never numerous ; and Vol. VII. 1907 ] B.\TEV, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. once found its domed nest with tiny brownish eggs. It was a fluttering feeder, kept on with a chirp sounding like " Dit dit," and then for such a mite it called out shrilly " Chee-wee-sher." In or about 1855 it left, and though investigating closely 1 have failed to locate the Ijird since. Not in Gisborne, Bulla, or Newham Shires. Yellow-rumpkd Tit {Acanthiza chrysorrhoa) From 1S46 to 1906 has held its own, but to my mind is not so numerous as it was formerly. It appears to court the society of man, seeing that it is given to nest in garden shrubs. It is famous for destroying aphis and small insects in and out of gardens. Brown Tir {Acatit/iiza piisilla). — This bird was always with us, found amongst eucalyp.ts, but it is only occasionally seen now. Little Tit {Acanthiza tia?ia).—V\le gave a bird the name of Chit Chit to distinguish it from Acanthiza pnsilla. It was probably this species. Little Field-Wren {Chthonicola sagitfata). — Came very rarely, only in seasons when creek flats were well grassed ; rose with a song, and if post or dead tree was near pitched on it. Evidently it bred with us. Have not seen it for years. Scrub-Wren {Scricomis oscu/ans).— Has always been a permanent of Jackson's Creek, and before the gold-diggings saw one feeding a bulky young bird. Calling my father's attention, on beholding the fledgling he decided it was a Cuckoo. Spotted Ground-Bird {Cinclo.wiua punctatuvi). — Found at Mt. William, near Lancefield, and in Newham Shire. It was styled the Ground- Pigeon. Babbler {Pomatorhinus temporalis). — A party lived in Glencoe sheoaks. This bird had its habitat in sheoak country, for it was ne\er found where eucalypts were the prevailing timber. Since the almost total destruction of sheoaks this bird has taken to eucalyptian tracts. Noted it in Brodie's Forest ; the last time was on Emu Creek, in 1901, and about same period a small party was observed on the highlands at Mickleham, near Deep Creek. Striated Field-Wren {Calnmanthus fuliginosus). — This natty bird, with greenish-tinted plumage, cocked tail, shy habits, and most agreeable warblmg voice, has ever been a permanent. Found of old on part of run called " Brock's Bottom," where there were some loose rocks, with a few bushes. Apparently it has increased, for now we find it about stone walls, in which it takes refuge when alarmed. Never under any circumstances has it been seen close to watercourses. White- fronted Chat {liphthianura albifrons). White-backet:) Magpie {Gy/nnorhina /caconota).— Has always held its own. Up to the time the Sunbury Industrial Schools were established 3,000 or more birds used to come to roost in a clump of box trees close to our house. The boys at the school began snaring them, as the result of which they were greatly thinned out. They were often shot off their perches at night by visitors. On bright moonlight nights they camped in low trees ; when nights were dark they selected tall ones. In summer, if a morning proved hot, numbers would remain all day under the shade, singing merrily and playing with each other. In the afternoon they went to the open country to the west of the creek. In later times, as a fair amount of tree- planting has been done, they live more dispersedly than formerly. A pair nested in a tree beneath a bedroom window of the Diggers' Rest Hotel. The landlord never disturbed them ; but one time a thoughtless person from Melbourne, seeing two young birds in the garden, shot them. I am informed that Magpies started to build on semaphores at Diggers' 8 Batev, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. [ist^'juiy Rest, amongst other materials using clippings of insulator wires. Such structures being a nuisance, they were destroyed. My son found a nest at Woodend North placed on a tree stump, in a natural hollow. There we find both Black-backed [G. tibicoi) and White-backed Magpies, In olden days about Sunbury Magpies did not eat flesh meat ; now if the carcass of a sheep is strychnined one is sure to find dead Magpies around it. About the Sunbury country I have not known them to touch fruit of any description, but Mr. Shaw says at Tandara, near Bendigo, they eat ripe figs. Hitherto the only damage they did at Sunbury was to occasionally pull up sprouting corn, and they only did so when the season was dry. Gyuinorhifia leuconota is a bird remarkable in a number of ways. Much could be said about it. I will confine myself to saying that much can be learnt from them when kept in captivity. When fledglings are handled they void e.xcreta. A pet Magpie kept by us stood in mortal terror of a slain hare or even its skin, and, if we followed up the bird with one or the other, it began to excrete. From that it is safe to assume that fear is the cause of young birds' behaviour when pulled out of a nest. It is common enough to find oval-shaped balls composed of the detritus of various insects. Once we thought such were excrement, but one day our bird was seen to eject one of these balls from its mouth. This bird had a wonderful memory. A hare was hung up in the kitchen ; on seeing it she took a great fright, and ever after that never entered that apartment without first making a careful scrutiny from the door. With her clipped wing she managed to scramble up a quince tree to roost. One moonlight night, hearing our pet screaming, I ran down the garden, when she was found on the ground. Ever after that she would come up to be placed on a cross beam in the kitchen or on the branch of a small willow alongside a chimney. BUTCHER-BiRD {Ct'iicticus destructor). — Still visits, though never knew it to nest with us. Saw nest near Lancefield, also young taken at Gisborne. Shrike-Tit {Falcunculiis frontaius). — This was a rare bird about Red- stone Hill, but commoner in the box forests. Rked-W.^rf.lrr {Acroccphalits ausiralis). — Has always been a summer visitor, and nests. White-throated Thickhead {Pachycephala guituralis). — Somewhat rare, and never saw more than a single one at a time. Rufous-breasted Thickhead {Pachycephala rnjivcntris). — Not common. I think it nests on our place. White-browed Tree-creeper {Cli)uactc7is Icucoplura). — Occasionally by the creek. Brown Tree-creeper {Cliiuactcris sctnuiens). — In former days always found with us, away from water, in the timber ; it has now been scattered about the plains. One was in the habit of roosting in the butt of a green tree hollowed out with fire. We caught it at night. I think it clung to roost in an upright position. Orange-winged Trek-runner [Smdla chrysopiera). — A permanent in 1846 and for some years later, mostly in sheoaks in small flocks. A good 50 years have gone since this bird was seen, the trees having been removed. White-shouldered Caterpillar-eater {Lnlagc tricolor). — Can be called rare. Generally a pair lived, and 1 think nested, in the box trees in the valley where we lived. Spinebill {^Acanthorhynchiis tenuirostris). — We were resident a good while on our station before a .Spinebill appeared. It was always uncommon with us. While at fiisborne for two years I discovered its favourite haunt was amongst blossoming heath. On examination I saw that in order to extract honey it pierced the heath flowers just above their bases. ^'°1'J"'] Batev, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. g Warty-faced Honey-eater {McUphajrix p/irvo;iii). — We were many years on the area before this bird appeared. It yet comes occasionally in small flocks. Have met it near Gisborne, at Newham on timbered slopes, and beyond M'lvor. The metallic clinkiny notes of this bird fall pleasantly on the ear. WHriK-NAr^F.D HONEY-EATKR {McIitJircptus Iiniiilatiis). -Formerly per- manent on the block, now \ery rare. Two years ago a small party appeared on the old location. Immature birds have a chestnut-coloured cap. Brown-hkadei) Honey-eater {Melithreptus hrvirosiris). — Was apparently permanent, and used to nest with us. As a bird its plumage has no beauty. White-bearded Honey-eater {^Mdionih iKn'tv-ltollandur). —This handsome bird with black and white striped plumage, yellow on wings, with beard-like feathers on throat, was always seen when honeysuckles were in flower. HONEV-EATER {P/ilo/is aurhomis .?). — This bird was the rarest of Honey- eaters, for I can only remember one visit of a very large flock during the fifties. They had seemingly massed together for the purpose of taking a long journey, which doubtless tired them out, seeing they were very tame, and one was knocked over with a stick. They were in the thick sheoaks on top of Redstone Hill. They made no stay. Whtte-peumed Honey-eater {Ptiloiis ^v/zV/ZAcAO.— Plentiful in 1850, but now in diminished numbers, owing, no doubt, to destruction of timber along the creek. A quarrelsome customer amongst other small birds, and when one is creeping on Black Ducks it raises alarm cries, on which the Ducks take wing. When flying it seems to sing the words " You very well." Fuscous Honey-eater {Ptilotis fiisca).~\x\ 1884 one was shot on Emu Creek. Plumage plain. In Brodie's Forest there was a bird, not numerous, whose call was " Arig-arig-a-taw-taw," a Honey-eater not unlike the above. Singing Honey-eater {Ptilotis so/iora). — C^.\\s " Put, put,'' then gives a " Chirr-r-r-r." We had been on the place some time before my father noticed it as a great rarity in 1846. Thereafter it became common, but in the end almost disappeared. At present on Jackson's Creek it is among the rarest of birds. 'Phe last one observed was two years ago, in the old fruit garden. Friar-Bird ( Pliilcvioii corniculatus). — On one or two occasions a single bird appeared. They were numerous on the Plenty River, where, as a very small lad, I mind them making a great noise after a Hawk. Red Wattle-Bird {Acanthochara carunculata). — Still in e\idcnce ; appears in winter, sometimes in good numbers, and on occasions will yet nest in the old locality. Brush Wattle-Bird [Acant/iochccra ;m^//nw(i).~An extremely rare bird, and has not been met with for a great number of years. As boys our name for it was " Charcoal Jack." N'oiSY Miner [Myzantlia garruht). — Not al)oul Redstone Hill i>r Cilencoe till comparatively recent times, when it appeared rarely. Sonu- two seasons back a few came, made a long stay, and possibly nested. Bell Miner {Manor/tina iiicla?iophrys). - Very common on Jackson's Creek in 1846 ; gradually diminished, and the last half-dozen flew up stream as if bent on a journey, about .March, 1854. From that date this bird has never revisited the region. .Met with it on lower Campaspe in November, 1 86 1. Heard it on Hughes's Creek, at Avenel, in 1844. Mr. W. Weslgarlh says it was on the Yarra at Richmond in 1840. I did not meet with it again until in (iippsland recently. 10 Batrv, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. [,^, Emu "In Whitf.-eyk {Zosterops c(vrnlcscens). — This tame little bird was always a regular visitor, coming in a party that kept together. Occasionally it nested on the Jackson's Creek. Mistlktoe-Btrd {Diciciiin /u'ritfidi/inccnni). — Three or four years back for the first time I saw this handsome bird on the old holding. The various eucalypts scattered around l)ore mistletoes not a ie\\\ some remark- ably fine ones. As youths we were always on the quest, yet, curious to relate, we never saw a Mistletoe-Bird. Red-tipped Pardalote {Pardalotus omntus). — Once common ; still appears occasionally. It used to nest with us. Spotted P.\RDAL0TE {Pardaloius punctatiis). — Once frecjuent and nesting, but it disappeared in later years, though odd ones may still appear. Welcome Swallow {Hirundo neoxena).—^\\.\\ respect to visits, nesting, and numbers the same as it was 60 years ago. Tree-Swallow {Pctrocliclidon /jii^ricatis). — -Came to breed annually. Sparrows, with Starlings, have appropriated the few hollow spouts on my area, with the result that we never see this bird. Fairy Martin {Petrochclidon arid). — Came to breed occasionally. In later years its visits seem more frequent. Latterly several nests under Bulla bridge, others under arch of stone culvert. Nested under eaves of huts in Riverina, but ants killed the young soon as hatched. Swift {Chcptura caudacutd). — '^e.\er a year passed without seeing them. Have seen them as early in the year as 23rd January. Some of my people asserted that they once saw these birds perched on stones. Pipit {Antlius ausfralis). — Always in evidence, and has increased, owing to forest lands being cleared. Bush-Lark {Mirafra hotsficidi). — This Lark could not have been on the 15,000 acres of old, because if it had it could not have escaped our notice. First saw it at Newham about 1890, when its curious pepper and salt marked eggs were discovered. At times it comes to Redstone Hill, where it is recognisable by its peculiar jerky flight and its singing. Brown Son(;-Lark {Cinclorhamplms criiralis). — A frequent visitor in good seasons ; comes to breed. We dubbed it the " Cock-tailed Lark." On occasions this bird is fairly numerous. Spot'IED-sided Finch {Sia^atioplcum guttata). — This handsome l'"inch always to be found in small parties, yet with us never numerous. Bred on the place, and in one instance knew them to construct a winter roosting nest, into which the little fellows crowded at night. Disappeared for a long time, then lately some returned for a brief s])ace. Noted at Woodlands, near Bulla, also at (iisborne. Red-hrowed Finch {yEgintha tc)iiporntis).—hx Redstone Hill in 1846, and for many years, this bird in numbers far exceeded the former species. After nesting time it mustered in a large flock of perhaps 100 birds. Still present, but in diminished numbers ; has ceased to be permanent, and has become a visitor only on Jackson's Creek. Have often seen its nests in former days seized by introduced Sparrows. Chestnut-earkd Finch ( 'Pceniopygia castauoiis) — This Finch was never indigenous in my part of Victoria, and only visited the area under consider- ation once during the fifties, and in that instance in large numbers. It would be in the spring season, beciuse it bred and we took young ones. I met it again in Riverina in the summer of 1865, when surface pools were ail dried up. They came in numbers to drink water placed out for them in an old frying-pan, and it was amusing to watrli the little fellows slaking their thirst. ^''',907"'] Batky. Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. II Woon-SWALLOW {Artaiiius sordidus). ~-A few still come to breed ; they c.inie in swarms at intervals. Whitk-browkd Wood-Swai.i.ow (-4;-A?w//.? stipcrciliosiis). — Not seen in later times on the old location. They came with the Sordid, and about 1850 Glencoe sheoaks were alive with both sorts, and many nests. Once saw a Masked Wood-Swallow {A. pcrsfliiahts) at Newham. PICARIAN BIRDS. Laughinc. Jackass {Dacelo f^ieas). — In 1846 and thereifter permanently on the creek. Mr. E. Page, blaming them for taking eggs, shot some. Seemingly they deserted our line of creek then, returning again within the last few years ; have nested in hollow spouts. This bird, about Newham and Lancetield district, appears to have increased. Never saw it killing snakes, while from the sharp eye it keeps on the corn stacks feel sure it destroys mice. Sacred Kingfisher {Halcyon sancfus). — Formerly constant, one pair nesting in a white bo.\ tree for long years. Never seen now. Azure Kingfisher {Alcyom astcrea). — Never plentiful. Found a nest once, drilled in face of earthy bank. Apparently e.xtinct on Jackson's Creek now. Pallid Cuckoo {Cuculus palUdus). — Hardly a season passed without getting a sight of it or hearing its call. Fan-T.AILED Cuckoo {Caconiautis flabclliformi s). — ':^\\\\ it on the area frequently. ViKO''AZV.-Q.\3CV.OO{ChnIcococcyx plagosus). — An occasional visitor. Wanton destruction of birds sometimes goes on when town lads are up for the day with guns. One morning I found a hat thrown in the creek with its band decorated with the wings of six distinct species of birds amongst them those of a Bronze-Cuckoo and a beautiful Grass-Parrakeet. COCKATOO AND PARROT FAMIL\. Black Cockatoo {Calyplorhynchus funcreus).--Yxo\w 1846 to say 1850 a constant visitor on Jackson's Creek, which it followed down in quest of wattle grubs. Last seen on Emu Bottom, some three or four miles up stream. Of recent years saw one near Gisborne, and lately heard it is found in the forest country between Bullengarook West and Ml Marcdon. Old teamsters stated it was a precursor of bad weather. BanKSIAN Cockatoo {Calyptorhynchus bankxii) -Two on Redstone Hill about 1849 ; o"^ shot. Whi IE Cockatoo {Cacatua ga/cri/n).—A.n irregular visitant, generrdly in large flocks. Formerly its diet was divers forms of roots, but when tillage commenced and variegated thistles appeared it changed. In agricultural regions, where this bird is persecuted, self-preservation has become the rule, for on thistled and cultivated areas sentries are placed arounc^. These are relieved, one leaving his mates to take the place of the sentry, which returns to the mob. About Sunbury three or four prospectors would come alxtut for a icw days, then go away, and before the week was out the main flock appeared. If their roosting places arc found shots can be had soon after nightfall. The common and the variegated thistles were quite unknown in the .Sunbury district until the latter was noted in 1847 at Main's, now Flemington Bridge ; the former at Redstone Hill in 1850. RoSE-IJREAS'iED CoCKA'lOO {Ciictitun roscicapillti).- About 1882 saw two or three. Regarded them as escapees from captivity. After that four were shot, which, on examination, showed that each had had a wing c lipped 12 Batev, Bird-Life Sixty Years As:o. [ist'^Xly before feathers had reached maturity. In 1901 saw a brace in a tall red gum below our house. This pair, from their actions, looked as if they had always lived in freedom, but it would not do to assert that they really had. Mr. John Hillary, a sharp observer, said that Galahs appeared at Greenvale, not far from Broadmeadows, during the year of the bad drought up North, but that season was a splendid one down South. These birds would be genuine visitors. Cockatoo-Parrakeet {Cal op sit tacit a novcp.-hollandi(B). — Not seen till 1853, about the begining of summer, when sheoaks on Emu Creek were literally alive with them, and a few years later some visited our place, when specimens were obtained. In 1870, my brothers stated the species was numerous at Lancefield, also that it bred there. Met with some at Newham. Betcherrygah {Melopsittacus undiilatus). — Noted a small flock at Redstone Hill about 1850; probablv seven years later in droves at Brodie's 5 -Mile, near Fenton Hill (Bolinda Vale). RosELLA iPlatycercus eximius). — Ever a permanent, but got scarce for a while. They nested on the place. Owing to extension of tillage Rosellas have now greatly increased. Crimson Parrakeet {Platycercus elegans). — Once permanent, but now met with in Gisborne, Newham, and Lancefield only. The wholesale or partial destruction of timber drives this species away. Blue-bellied Lorikeet (Trickoglossus novce-hollandice). — Only a visitant; last seen at Redstone Hill about 1883, when it attacked fruit. Very common once on Conagaderer Creek, between Fenton Hill and Deep Creek, where it fed on honeysuckle blossoms. King Lory {Aprosmictus cyanopygius). — A ver}- rare casual, one at a time, in immature plumage, being seen. Many years ago one came, a very wild bird, with tail only a ragged stump. There is a possibility that this Lory wears down its tail when nesting. Green-Leek Parrakeet {Polytelis barrabatidi). — A few came once. The white box country in Melton region I conclude was their favourite resort. Noted a brace there end of 1870. Mr. W. P. Best ten or twelve years later secured a pair about Bacchus Marsh. Noted a few in tree near Black Gully when going to Lancefield many years ago. Blue-winged Grass-Parrakeet (Neophema venusta). — Generally to be found in a small party. This Parrakeet might be counted rare ; saw a few quite recently. Never knew it to nest in my part. Red-backed Parrakeet {Psephotus hcematonotus). — None known for long years on area, and first observed on Glenara estate, near Bulla, in 1870, after which it appeared at Redstone Hill occasionally. Some noted in 1884. Not observed of late years. This Parrakeet was very common in the north of the State and in Riverina. Musky I^orikeet {Glossopsittaciis concinnus). — Always on the scene when eucalypts are in flower. Comes to the place yet to devour fruit. Seems to know when it is fit. Little Lorikeet {Glossopsittaciis pusiUus). — A very frequent visitor in small lots. Seems very affectionate, but has not visited the old locality for long years. Vol. VI 1907 J Batkv, Biyd-Life Sixty Years Ago. i^ Swift Lorikeet {N anodes discolor). — A frequent visitant. Some two years ago a large party came. Seems to diet extensively on the white waxy scales that abound on the leaves of the yellow box (eucalypt). Those scales have a sugary taste ; a small, soft insect is concealed under them. Purple-crowned Lorikeet {Glossopsittacus poyphyrocephalus). — One instance only where identity established. This bird was amongst the recent Swift Lorikeets. The writer has a recollection of taking Purple-crowned Lorikeets on Redstone Hill long years ago. GAME BIRDS. Wild Turkey or Bustard {Eupodotis auslralis). — In 1846 and years after abundant. Once counted 28 fly across from Redstone Hill to Glencoe sheoaks. The late Mr. Edward Page said they laid a single egg on the bare ground. Shot a brace about a third grown, and as they were quite by themselves concluded they were one clutch. This noble bird on the old area now the rarest. It may be counted extinct on plains south of Mt. Macedon. In 1869 saw a brace near Lancefield, winging south ; previous to which year I never had seen these birds flying at such a high rate of speed. Hard seasons in the interior (1869 was bad) causes Turkeys, with other birds, to head southwards. My Riverina experience proved that a severe drought plays havoc with Bustards and Emus. The former died of sheer starvation ; the latter became so weak thai lliev could not gel out of Ihe way of a sheep dog. Southern Stone-Plover {Burhinus grallarius). ~-In 1846 and for some years after permanent on the area, but nowadays casual. Before 1850 found a nest of two eggs on the bare ground. A visit shortly after proved the eggs had disappeared. Perhaps the bird had removed them or Ravens had destroyed them. Towards 1870 found two young ones on our land. Black-breasted Plover {Zonifer tricolor). — In lormcr days ex- ceedingly numerous. The old squatters in our vicinity let them alone, but later on people began shooting them, with the result that they became scarce. Of late years they have increased somewhat.* As regards this Plover, closer settlement does not seem to affccl it seriously, because it continues to breed in the old location. Spur-winged Plover {Lobivanellus lobatus). — Always rare on Red- stone Hill, Glencoe, and Koorakoorakup. Out of bounds, when Melton swamps arc full, we find^it in small parlies. When good seasons prevailed in Riverina the Spur-wing was fairly plentiful in the im- mediate vicinity of swamps. Doubtless it bred there. Stubble Quail (Coturnix pectoralis). — Of old a few strictly permanent, at'varying cycles very numerous, then years might elapse without seeing a bird. In later times they have frequently visited the old area. Quail are not migrants in the real sense of the word, for my conclusion is that they merely shift about, and I think they travel at night. Before i860, pa.ssing over an adjoining farm after nightfall, heard more Quail-calls than ever heard before or since. A few days alter, • This autumn a sportsman icpoilcd .seeing a larj;e lluck of several liundieds near Deep Creek. — Eds. I_^ Hatkv, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. | ,.t^''juiy thinking to make a bag, I visited the spot, with the result that not a bird was to be seen. Probably they had come the previous night, rested for the day, and when darkness fell began calling for a fresh start. Brown Quail (Syttwcus ausiralis). — -Was permanent in small coveys on Jackson's Creek for long years. It totally disappeared from the old haunt, but some two or three seasons back I noticed a few near our old homestead. From this it will be noted that it is rare. Painted Quail {Turnix varia). — Taken on Redstone Hill in 1854. The ones here (Drouin) are its exact counterpart. This single bird, found amongst bracken ferns, was the only one met with on the area. Little Quail (Turnix velox). — Whenever we have an extra good season this handsome bird appears, when it is seen on grass lands or growing crops. Collared Plain-Wanderer {Pedionomus torqiiatus). — Evidently permanent; appeared very scarce ; nevertheless, coloration, combined with habits, being so highly protective, possibly it was more plentiful than supposed to be. During my 60 odd years' experience on the three sheep-runs I have not seen half a dozen birds. The first was brought to us by our shepherd in the later forties. The next was taken about the middle fifties. Cattle putting up the bird, the grass being short, it was marked down and captured. When taken, cui'ious to relate, it could not be induced to take flight, and all it did was to march about, occasionally extending its wings. It may be ten years since Mr. H. Coburn was seen with a living specimen taken on Rockbank station. In 1852 we found a nest with eggs, peg-top shaped ; we did not sight the bird, but afterwards heard that they were those of the Collared Plain-Wanderer. Black Duck {Anas superciliosa). — Once common on our line of Jackson's Creek, where we found its nests, but of late years a rare visitor on that stream. WooD-DucK {Chenonetta jubata). — Ever a casual, at times making a considerable stay, and still appears at odd times. Pink-eared Duck {Malacorhynchus membrcifiaceus) — One found on the creek about 1857. Very common in Riverina. Grey Teal {Nettion gibberifrons). — Always somewhat rare on the creek. Odd wing- weary birds still drop in. Exceedingly numerous in good seasons in Riverina, and nests. Shoveller {Spatula rhynchotis). — An extremely rare visitor on the creek, not noted till 1854, when deluging rains in March of that year brought up swarms of Ducks, amongst them a few Shovellers. In that incursion were Black Ducks and Wood-Ducks, but the great majority were Teal. Three years ago two brace of Shoveller, in company with as many Teal, visited us. White-evkd Duck {Nyroca australis). — ln 1855 or 1856 I lirst saw this Duck on Jackson's Creek ; since then it has" been very rare. The bulge at the lower end of this bird's windpipe is far larger than that of any Duck that I am acquainted with. Pool on Jackson's Creek, near Kedntonc- Hill. (The vegetation of the creek side is chiefly Leplospermutn (tea-tree) antl Hymeuauthcra (tree-violet), but Eucalypti (gum-trees) are characteristic of the hill slopes. A branchlet of their vertically hanging leaves is seen in the top of the picture.) FROM A PHOTO. BY ERNEST BRAY. ^°'>w' ] Batkv, Bird-Lijc Sixty Years Ago. I5 Mountain-Duck (Casarca tadornoides). — Out of bounds on Melton swamps; two shot. Bronze-wing Pigeon {Phaps chalcoplcya).—Ca.me down Jackson's Creek about end of summer, but in the winter of 1S54 were in sheoaks on Redstone Hill in goodly numbers. They moved down stream to Keilor or bej'ond. The late Mr. Edward Winter, who began farming there in 1843, used to shoot Bronze-wings about the site of the present township. Used to be very numerous on Koorakoorakup and Emu Bottom, on which last the late Mr. John William Page stated he bagged 30 in the course of a day. Tliis Pigeon nested with us. Now it is very rare indeed. Brush Bronze-wing (P/taps elegans). — A brace only were known, about ten or twelve years back. I saw the chief distinction between it and common Bronze-wing was a liver-coloured patch on breast. Have seen this Pigeon on Mt. Macedon in thick scrubs where about the only chance of seeing the bird is when it crosses a track. Snipe (Gallinago australis). — -Prior to 1850 Mr. Tom Perry bagged one, the only true Snipe to my knowledge that ever halted on our creek. There is a small Snipe-like bird on Melton swamps — that is, when they contain water. This bird goes in flocks, keeps in the open by the water's edge, occasionally stands on the half-submerged stones so close together that I have known nine to be knocked over at one shot.* Occasionally birds of the Sandpiper tribe have appeared, but they were very rare. It is impossible for me to say what kinds they were. OTHER AQUATIC BIRDS. Pectoral Rail (Jiy potcenidia philippinensis) . — Frequented Jackson's Creek ; bred there, because I have seen young, unfledged birds. This Rail is a beautifully-marked bird : it yet appears as a rare casual. White-headed Stilt {Himantopus leucocephalus). — Shot on Melton swamps and at Woodend North. Red-necked Avocet {Recicrvirostra novcD-hollandice). — Seen once only, on swampy spot on Bulla road. In this instance one bird, but when Melton swamps were full I have seen them there. Curlew (Numenius cyanopus). — A specimen was once shot at Woodend North, presumably an accidental bird that had dropped out of the migratory flocks for some reason. Moor-Hen {Gallinula tenebrosd). — Found lots of their nests in swamp bushes in Riverina, built a few inches above water. The Pink-eyed Duck nests under similar conditions. Shot a Moor-Hen at Woodend North, the hrst and only one observed so far south. There is a dam at Woodend North, covering two acres fully, close to Mt. Alexander road, and on this water storage aquatic birds frequently are found. Bald-Coot {Porphyrio melanonotus). — In 1854 one was taken on the creek ; another .shot later on. This is a very rare bird, but I have frequently seen it at Melton swamps. * Duuhllcss Ileicropyi^ia acuininala (.Sliarp-lailcil Sliiit). — Eos. l6 Batev, Bird-Life Sixty Years Ago. [,^j Emu July Coot {Fnlica australis). — Every large pool on Jackson's Creek, provided it had a good fringe of reeds, had one or two Coots. For years they were permanents ; from personal observation nowadays they are not even the rarest of casuals. M.\RSH Tern {Hydrochelidon hybrida). — Seen at Woodend North, where it was noted that this bird when alighting has a peculiar graceful action in folding its long wings. Having pitched on the ground the wings are extended upwards, then the ])inions are shut down, after which both wings are closed. My theory is that it is done to prevent injury to the wings, for it appeared to me if not closed in that fashion they would strike the ground. Str-vw-necked Ibis {Geronticus spinicollis). — My first acquaintance with this bird was on the Murrumbidgee River, near Hay, in the sixties. In 1869 we had a terrible drought on Keilor Plains. No doubt this visitation was very severe up north, because Ibis, with some Wild Turkeys, were in evidence. Just about Christmas time, 1868, we had to move a flock of sheep to Mt. William, near Lancefield, where the animals remained till midwinter. One day a large flock of Ibis was seen wending south ; from my Riverina experience they were identified. However, in 1866, Mr. Thos. Kissock, on whom my father called one day, was out with his gun ; presently he returned with a pair of birds, no doubt utter strangers to him, seeing that he remarked — "They look very like Whaups " (the Scottish name for seashore Curlews). As the adjacent runs would be known to Mr. Kissock for close on 25 years, it seems clear that during all those years he had never seen an Ibis till then. Since 1869 we may count Ibis as frequent visitors in the Sunbury district, but in all cases their visits, in my opinion, are not the result of droughts up north. They must have largely increased since aborigines disappeared, consequently, the supply of food being overlapped, necessity has compelled them to travel. In late years they have visited Redstone Hill and roosted there at night. They are common enough at times in the Shire of Newham, where there are some large dams, on which I have witnessed them bathing in warm weather. Once a White Ibis (Threskiornis slictipennis) was noted there. White-fronted Heron {Ardea novcu-hollandics). — A somewhat frequent bird ; never numerous ; noted away from water, evidently in quest of grasshoppers and other insects. White-necked Heron {Ardea pad fica). —The " Curwin " of Delatite aborigines, and may be regarded as a rare bird, seeing we had been years at Sunbury before one was seen. Night-Heron (Nycticorax caledonicus). — Can be put down as a rare bird on Jackson's Creek. Occasionally an odd one still appears. Years ago the speckled bird was supposed to be a distinct variety, but ornithologists have discovered that it is the immature Nankeen Heron. Bittern (Bohiunis poicilopterus).— Only one instance on our creek, in 1853 ; then thirty-five years after two were found in Emmeline Vale Swamp, near Old Gisborne ; one shot, and its identity established. Spoonbill (Plaf ibis flavipes).— In 1858 one came to Jackson's Creek. In i860, early in January, after three days' deluging rain, some of my folks went to inspect Melton swamps, when thcv found them swarming .1 VII. KI07 IImicv, Bird-Life Sixty Years A^o. zy with Gulls. A little later 1 went there to shoot. There were clouds of Ducks — Gulls were gone — but no Spoonbills. In 1895 the late Mr. James M'Ara Jilitchell, manager of Rockbank, complained of Melbourne people shooting these inoffensive birds, leaving them lying about the swamps. Have seen Spoonbills on dams in Newham Shire. The water was very muddy ; they stalked along, swinging their bills like clock pendulums, in search of insects, &c., beneath the surface. White Egret (Herodias timoriensis). — -One met with on Emu Creek, near Bulla, about 1855. MusK-DucK {Biziiira lobata). — One seen years ago on Jackson's Creek. In season of travel have noted up to ten at a time in a dam at Woodend North. Black Swan (CJienopis atrata). — Somewhat frequently appearing. SiLN'ER Gull {Larus nova;-hollandice). — When we have storms in winter from the soiith these Gulls sometimes visit the big dam at Woodend North. This reservoir is 45 miles from Port Phillip. Native Comi'.\nion (Antigone anstvalasiana). — At times seen on Melton Plains, but never in any numbers. Black Cormorant (Phalacrocorax novire-hollandia:). — This bird is an almost constant visitor, generally when the water is clear. Little Black Cormorant (Phalacracorax stictocephalus). — Same as above with respect to its visits. Little Cormorant {Phalacrocorax melanoleucus). — This, as regards visits, is the same as the other two. Of the three sorts a party hardly goes beyond three or four, sometimes a brace, but more frequently a single bird. Cormorants swarm with intestinal worms, often of large size. These parasites appear to break into the fish as soon as swallowed. Inferentially they accelerate digestion, there- fore we may conclude that the presence of the parasites accounts for the bird's voracity. Once fully a dozen birds pitched in a dam at Woodend North. They began working all abreast in an extended line, diving simultaneously. When one rose with a carp it tossed it in the air, caught the fish by the head, and bolted it. The other Cormorants often rushed to rob him. They evidently ovci^gorgc, lor under roosting trees I have seen ever so many whole fish tliat they had ejected. Darter (Plotus novce-hollandicB). — One only seen on the creek, and shot. Another killed on a Murrumbidgee lagoon. Pelican {Pelecanus conspicillatiis).— In 1876 one shot on Jackson's Creek and one at Newham. On extremely rare occasions they have been seen in broad daylight Hying towards the sea-coast. Grkbe (Podiceps, sp.')— Cannot say if it is the Hoary-headed or the Black-throated species ; possibly both P. puliocephalus and nova:- hoUandice occur. Never knew it to nest. Emu {Dromceiis novce-hollandice) . — When we arrived at Sunbury, in 1846, Emus were gone, as far as our area was concerned. Tom Harrison, who had come with the .Messrs. Jackson to Koorakoorakup in 1836, saw an old bird with i i young between the present site of the Sunbury Asylum and Bald Hill. The late Mr. Lewis Clarke, who arrived about 1840, stated he ran down one at Fcnton Hill (now Bolinda). l8 Hii-i-, Birds of Ararat District. [ist^'juiy Birds of Ararat District. By G. F. Hill, Wellington, N.Z. Part II. White-throated Tree-creeper (Climacteris leiicophcea). — Found in the timbered localities throughout the district, but more plentiful near the mountains than on the lower country. Brown Tree-creeper (Climacteris scavdens). — A commoner species than the preceding one, especially on the scrubby ridges away from the mountains. The nests are often built in hollows very near the ground, and contain three or four eggs, usually the latter number. Black-capped Tree-runner {Sittella pileata), — A rather uncommon bird. The nests are built in upright forks of dead branches and covered with small pieces of bark of the colour of the branch. Gum* is used freely in the construction of the nests, both to stick the foundation to the branches and to attach the small pieces of bark to the outside. At least four birds assist in the building of a nest. Spine-bill (Acanthorhynchus tenuirosiris). — This species is found throughout the district at certain times of the year, but during the nesting season it retires to the mountains. White-eye (Zosterops casrulescens). — A common bird during the fruit season, but one which is not often seen in the nesting period except in the mountains. White-naped Honey-eater (Melithreptus hmulatus). — A spring arrival, which, like the next species, arrives in small flocks, leaving again after nesting. Brown-headed Honey-eater (M. brevirostris). Black-chinned Honey-kater (M. gularis). — Four birds only were noted here. Warty-faced Honey-eater {Meliphaga phrygia). — In 1906 these birds arrived in flocks on i8th October, flying from the south, and eggs were taken on 25th and 30th November. Their arrival was later than usual, eggs being taken as early as 2nd October in previous years. The nests arc built of rough pieces of stringy-bark (eucalypt) and grass, lined with fine bark, grass, and sheep's wool. They are invariably placed in the forks of stringy-barks about 25 feet from the ground. Three eggs are generally laid. White-eared Honey-eater {Ptilotis leucotis). — Numerous at the foot of the mountains, but scarce in most other localities. They arrive in the early spring and leave again when the nesting season is over. Yellow-tufted Honey-eater {Ptilotis auricomis).—! am unable to say if these Honey-eaters arrive in pairs or in flocks, but I believe it is in pairs. Nesting commences in July, and continues through August, September, and October. The nests are generally built from 3 to 6 feet from the ground, in thick box scrub, and are made of bark, grass, and wool in varying proportions. When bark is used almost exclus- ively it is noticeable that the nests are large and roughly built, but when sheep's wool or grass predominates they are generally smaller and closely woven, l^abbit's fur, sheep's wool, grass, and bark are * Tliis is a sccieliun from ihe mouth of the bird. — Eds. ^">w"] Hill, Birds of A rami District. ig used for lining. The opening is always oval, varying in size from 2.15 X 1.40 in. to 2.65 X 1.87 in. Two or three eggs are laid, and, as in the case of the Fuscous Honey-eater a marked difference in the size and colouring of the sets is noticed. Two sets each containing two eggs measured respectively : — (a) .84 x .6 in. and .84 x .6 in.; (b) .94 x .69 in. and .94 x .7 in. Fuscous Honey-eater (Ptilotis fusca). — This is one of the few Honey-eaters which remain in the district throughout the year. The nests are generally built of sheep's wool, grass, and spider webs, and are not lined. Sometimes bark is used with other materials, but as a rule sheep's wool forms the bulk ot the materials used. One nest was found to be built almost entirely of bark and spider web and lined with grass and sheep's wool. Considerable variation in size was noted in these nests. Two built of similar materials measured respectively — (a) Inside, 1.55 in. across x 1.15 in. deep; outside, 2.5 in. x 2.5 in.; (6), inside, 1.7 in. x 1.75 in. ; outside, 2.75 in. x 3 in. Three eggs are generally laid ; the sets vary considerably in size and colour (tliis was noted particularly in 1906), .84 in x .6 in. and .72, in. x .55 in. being the extremes of measurement, and from pale pink with dark red markings to uniform terra cotta the variation in colour. Yellow-faced Honey-eater {Piilotis chrysops). — A common species. White-plumed Honey-eater {Ptilotis penicxllatd). — As a rule this bird is uncommon here, but in the year 1902 many of them visited the district and nested freely. Crescent Honey-eater (Meliornis australasiana). — Another un- common species, though they are numerous in the Grampian Mountains, some 34 miles distant. White-bearded Honey-eater (Meliornis novcs-hollandics). — A winter arrival, which commences nesting in the beginning of July. Noisy Miner (Manor hina garrula). — Plentiful in the low-lying localities. Red Wattle-Bird {Acanthocho'ra carunculata). — The notes on the following species apply also to this one. Brush Wattle-Bird {AcanthochcBra mellivora). — An early spring arrival, which comes to the district from the south in flocks of twelve to twenty birds. The nests are generally built in the thick second growth gum scrub shortly after arrival here, and as soon as the nesting is over they again collect into flocks and leave for the south. Spiny-cheeked Honey-eater {Acanthochcera rufigularis). — A spring arrival, found almost invariably in the she-oaks (Casuarina) growing on the bare hillsides. I have no notes of their nesting habits, but I believe that they build in the.se trees. Like the White-bearded Honey-eater and the Crimson Parrakeet (Plaiycerciis elegans) they are most destruc- tive to the flowers of the native Correa speciosa, whether they be growing in the flower garden or in the bush. Blue-faced Honey-eater {Entomyza cyanotis). — A rare bird here. In 1896 a pair laid two clutches of eggs in old nest of Pomatorhinus temporalis , but as a rule they do not appear until midsummer, when the eucalypts are in blossom. 20 IIii.i-, Birds of Ararat District. [ij'^'juiy Friar-Bird {Philemon coriticulatus).— These birds are scarce, and seldom build in the lower country, but appear to be more numerous in the vicinity of the ranges. MiSTLETOE-BiRD {DiccBiim hirundinaceiim). — It would be interesting to know how the mistletoe (Loranthus), which is now very plentiful, was spread over this area, for these birds are extremely scarce now, and unless they were formerly far more numerous they could never have accounted for the distribution of so much seed. Red-tipped Pardalote {Pardalotus ornatus). — -Common throughout the district. The nests are generally built in hollow branches, but are also found in burrows in the banks of creeks. Spotted Pardalote (Pardaloins punctatus). — Numerous in the limbered localities. Various situations are selected for nesting pur- poses, but generally speaking mounds thrown up around rabbit- burrows in sandy soil are chosen. Frequently the burrows for their nests are made in the loam under the stumps of stunted box scrub ; sometimes in the sides of prospectors' shafts or at the side of much- used sheep tracks. One instance was noted of a burrow being made in side of a fern basket hanging on a verandah. A pair nested three or four consecutive years in our fowl-run, the burrow in each case being located under the roots of box scrub. Swallow (Hirundo neoxena). Tree-Martin {Petrochclidon nigricans). — This species is plentiful in the low country, but the nests are usually built in almost inaccessible spouts of trees, consequently the eggs are seldom taken. Fairy Martin {Petrochclidon ariel). White-browed Wood-Swallow {Artamus super ciliosus). — A regular spring visitor, which arrives in large flocks in November. Masked Wood-Swallow {Artamus personatus). — This species was fairly numerous in the summer of 1898, but I have no more recent notes concerning them. WooD-SwALLow {Artamus sordidus). Ground-Lark {Anthus australis). Spotted-sided Finch {Staganopleura guttata). — Like the following species, this Finch is by no means plentiful. Nests may be found in all parts of the district. Red-browed Finch {/Egintha temporalis). — Occasionally seen in the scrubby country, but generally found near the mountains, where they nest along the tea-tree creeks. White-rumped Swift {Micropus pacificus). — A more regular visitor than the next species. Spine-tailed Swift {Chcstura caudacuta). Tawny Frogmouth {Podargus strigoides).— This bird is seldom seen now, but is said to have been more numerous some years ago. Owlet Nightjar {/Egoiheles novfe-hollandice).—T\hs appears to be a rather common bird here. A harsh cry heard every sunny morning during the winter was for a long time difficult to locate, but, after the expenditure of some patience, an observer was rewarded by seeing one of these birds sitting at the mouth of its hollow, repeating its cry many times while it enjoyed the warmth of the rising sun. ^"'."gl;"'"' ^"-^•- ^"'^^•' "f ■^''"raf District. 21 Br.E-KATKR (Merops o'rnatus). — A summer visitor, lound on flat, sandy country. Their burrows are made on the side of sheep tracks, or in the mounds thrown up by rabbits. The egg chamber is not Uned. Blue Kingfisher {Alcyone azurea). — This species is peculiar to the banks of the Wimmera, where nests may be found during December. Brown Kingfisher {Dacelo gigas). S.\CRED Kingfisher (Halcyon sanctiis). Pallid Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus). — This species, Uke the following, is rather uncommon here, and during the eight years over which my records extend I have no note of having taken an egg of either species, though a Fuscous Honey-cater was observed feeding a young Pallid Cuckoo on one occasion. F.\n-tailed Cuckoo (Cacomantis fiahelliformis). Black-eared Cuckoo (Mesocalius palliolatus). — A rare bird, which may be recognised by its extremely high-pitched note. Its rich chocolate-coloured egg is generally deposited in the nest of Chihonicola sagitfata, which egg it closely resembles in colour, though not in shape. From a friend in this district I lately received a clutch of three eggs of Malurus cyaneus, \v\i\\ which was also found one egg of Mesocalius palliolatus and one egg of Chalcococcyx basalis. A fresh egg of Meso- calius palliolatus was taken from a nest deserted a few days previously by a brood of Chthonicola. The colouring matter on these eggs is very soluble ; it is therefore necessary to exercise care in cleaning them of their contents. Narrow-billed Bronze-Cuckoo {Chalcococcyx basalis). — This is the most frecjuently met with of the Cuckoo family. The following may be mentioned as some of the foster-parents : — Peircvca leggii, Acanthiza reguloides, Malurus cyaneus. Bronze-Cuckoo {Chalcococcyx plagosus). Blue-bellied Lorikeet {Trichoglossus novcs-hollandicB). — An ir- regular summer visitor, which, as far as I know, docs not build in tiic flistrict. Musk Lorikeet (Glossopsittacus concinnus). — A common bird, especially when the eucalypts are in blossom. The hollows selected for nesting are usually inaccessible, and for this reason the eggs are not often taken. These remarks apply also to the next two species Purple-crowned Lorikeet {Glossopsittacus porphyrocephalus). Little Lorikeet {Glossopsittacus pusillus). Black Cockatoo {Caly ptorhynchus funereus). — Usually found in the mountains, but during the summer may be seen in any part of tlie district in search of the larvae of certain beetles which bore into the branches of the Casaurina trees. A cluster of Pinus insignis trees growing close to a house was visited periodically by a flock of these Cockatoos and the cones torn open to extract the seed v/hich they contained. White Cockatoo {Cacatua ^a/ema).— Numerous througiiout tlie district during winter and spring. The principal food appears to be the larvae of a species of longicorn beetle which bores into the eucalyj)ts after they have been rung, and small IuIkts wiiich grow in damp localities. 22 Hii.L, Bird^ of Aram/ District. [,.t'".h'iy Cockatoo-Parrakeet (Calopsittacus novce-hollandice). — An occasional summer visitor. Crimson Parrakeet (Platycercus elegans).— This species is also numerous here, but I took but one egg during the eight years over which these notes extend. It was remarked that only birds of mature plumage were seen in the mountains, but on the lower country both those of mature and immature plumage were found, though generally not in the same flocks. This peculiarity was also noticed by my brother in the Nagambie district (Goulbum Valley). RosELLA (Platycercus eximius). — The commonest and most destruc- tive of the family represented here. Many-coloured Parrakeet {Psephotus multicolor). — One small flock was seen in the southern portion of the district in 1904. Red-backed Parrakeet {Psephotus hcematonotus). — Plentiful throughout the district at certain times of the year. Though some remain for the nesting, I beheve most of them go further north to breed, and return again a few months later. The topmost hollow branches of tall dead trees are invariably chosen for nesting purposes. Bronze-wing (Phaps chalcoptera). — Said to have been extremely plentiful in the early days, but very scarce at the present time, no doubt owing to the destruction of the Acacia, which produced their principal food, and to the laying of poison for the destruction of rabbits. Brush Bronze-wing {Phaps elegans). — A bird was flushed from her nest, situated in the hollow trunk of a broken messmate (eucalypt), and one egg taken from it. This was the only specimen I was able to identify. Stubble Quail {Coturnix pectoralis). — Not found often here, though numerous south of the district under notice. Painted Quail {Turnix varia). — A single specimen only was noted. Little Quail {Turnix velox). — Of late years these birds have arrived in large numbers during the summer, and leave again after the nesting. The loud boom made at night by this small species of Quail sounds like the call of a much larger bird, and at some considerable distance away, though the author of it may in reality be perhaps not more than one hundred yards away. Pectoral Rail {Hypotcenidia philippinensis). — Seldom seen here, though probably more numerous along the course of the Wimmera River. Crane {Antigone australasiana). — Sometimes seen flying overhead in flocks of five or six birds, travelling in a northerly direction. Wild Turkey {Eupodotis ausiralis). — A rare summer visitor. Stone-Plover {Burhinus grallarius). — Fairly numerous on the timbered rises, but, according to old residents, they are less numerous than formerly, which may be accounted for by the increase in the number of foxes. Spur-winged Plover {Lobivanellus lobatus). — This and the following species are sometimes seen on the low-lying country during the nesting season. Black-brrasted Plover {Zonifer tricolor). ^°|-J"] Hilt., Birds of Ararat District. 23 White-headed SxiLf (Himaniopus leucocephalus). — -A single speci- men only was noted. Snipe {Gallinago auslralis). — Rarely seen here. Straw-necked Ibis (Geronticus spinicollis). — ■ A summer visitor which is generally seen on the wing. Yellow-billed Spoonbill (Platibis flavipes). — -A rare .visitor. White Egret (Herodias iimoriensis). — -One bird was noted. White-fronted Heron {Notophoyx nov cB-hoUandicB) . White-necked Heron {Notophoyx pacifica). — -An occasional visitor. Little Cormorant {Phalacrocorax melanoleucus). — A few birds may be seen along the Wimmcra River and small creeks, but do not nest here. Black-throated Grebe {Podicipes novcs-hollandi^s). — ^A nest con- taining four eggs was found on a small dam which I think belonged to this species. Black Swan (Chenopis atrata). WooD-DucK {Chenoneita jubata). — Usually found on the low country in the neighbourhood of dams and creeks, during the summer and early autumn, but most of them leave the district for nesting. Mountain-Duck (Casarca tadornoides). — A few pairs arrive in the early spring, and although they built regularly here I have been unable to collect any notes as to their habits. Bl.\ck Duck {Anas super cilio so). —Like the following species, this bird is an occasional visitor. Teal (Nettion castaneum). Emu {DromcBiis novcB-hollandics). — Old residents inform me that in the early days these birds were very plentiful, but during my eight years' residence here only one specimen was seen. They are still found in the Grampian Mountains, which is the nearest point to this locality at which thej- may be now seen. Bird Notes from Wilmot, Tasmania. By (Mlss) J. A. Fletcher, Cleveland, Tasmania. Part IV. (concluded). {Continued from Vol. IV.., p. 14.) During the autumn and winter of 1905 the Hill Crow-Shrikes {Strepera argutd) came to this district, and remained until nearly springtime. They were certainly a great addition to our surroundings, and their merry "clinking" calls added a jovial tone to this our dreariest season. In the autumn of 1906 these birds returned for a brief period. As far as I could learn they retired to the less heavily timbered plains, 12 miles south, to breed. The Ground-Lark {Antlius australis) is another of our summer visitants, but prefers other localities during the very wet and 24 Fi.KTCUF.K, BtrrJ Notes from Wilmot, Tasmania. [,st^'juiy frosty winters of Wilmot. I had much pleasure in watching their tripping movements amongst the grass in the early morning. Consequent on the yearly increase of the scrubbed area, the Mountain or Ground-Thrushes {Geockhla inacror/iyncha) are becoming very rare, and during this year I have not seen one, though I have had several scrambles in their favourite gullies. In previous years I have generally seen several, and found their old nests. As the forest is being cleared they do not return to their old nesting sites to build. In one of my former papers I remarked that I wondered for what food the Spotted Ground-Bird {Cinclosovia punctatmn) was hunting on the heathy ground. I have since discovered that it is a certain chrysalis which buries itself just under the surface of the ground. After a Ground-Bird has searched a piece of ground, the latter has the appearance of being covered with the broken shells of tiny brown eggs, the white inside lining adding to the deception. Along the moss-grown banks of a now unused track cut in the face of a hill I found several old nests of the Brown Scrub- Wren {Sericornis Jnimilis), also a nest that had been built and used this season. Very cunningly hidden are these nests. Often the entrance alone betrays the situation. Above the same bank I watched a family of Black-headed Honey-eaters {Melithrcptus viclanocepJiahis) being fed. They were sitting on a branch, and, being rather weak, assumed such grotesque attitudes that they would have made an excellent photograph of baby bird life. The White-eyes {Zosterops avruhscens) were frequent visitors to the fuchsias on the back verandah, despite the fact that the verandah joined the school. Several members of the Hawk family were residents of the district, much to the disgust of the farmers during the chicken season. The Brown Hawk {Hieraddea orientalis) and Sparrow- Hawk {Accipiter cirfJioccphalus) were frequently circling over- head. They appeared to nest on the top of a high, scrub-covered hill, the latter species being frequently seen flying in that direction with something in its talons. I also found the situa- tion of a nest of the Black-cheeked Falcon {Falco vielanogenys) in the spout of a dead gum tree. The bird was sitting, and when returning to her nest always described a circle, flying round evidently for observation. If she observed me lying on the grass below she would utter some warning cries and fly away over the tree-tops. On the river levels and the lower lands I have often watched the Swamp-Hawk {Circus gouldi) circling above. Occasionally, a flutter in the Magpie world would betray the presence of a Wedge-tailed Eagle {Uroaetus audaxX slowly flying across to the west. Vol. \' 1 1 1907 1 Flktchkr, Bird Notes jrom Wihnol, Tasmatzia. 25 Once in a way a riover {Lflbivanclliis loba/iis), and occasion- ally a Snipe {Gallinago austmlis), would find its way to the clearer lands, but after remaining a few days would again dis- appear. Several times a flock of Wild Ducks {Anas superciliosa) flew over, evidently making their way to the more open water- ways several miles west. I have now recorded all the birds which have come under my notice during my residence in this north-western district of Tasmania. Compared with other portions of the island the variety is very limited, and, owing to the dense undergrowth, observation is very difficult. Yet the pleasure of studying the bird life amply compensates for the hours of toil often incurred. Notes on a Collection of Birds from the Townsend River, North- Western Australia. Bv Robert Hall, F.L.S., C.M.Z.S. The collection was made by my correspondent, Mr. J. P. Rogers, along the right and left banks of this tributary of the Robinson River. It was gathered in 1902, and I understand Mr. Rogers to have been the first field naturalist to visit the locality in search of birds. Some of the species in the following list I believe to be new to North-Western Australia* : — Cacatua galerita (Latham), White Cockatoo. Terminal parts of chest and breast stained with pale brick- red. Adult male, 1/9/02. Cacatua gymnopis (Sclater), Bare-eyed Cockatoo. Throat, chest, breast, and wing coverts deeply stained with dull brick-red. Adult male, 8/9/02. Cacatua roseicapilla (Vieillot), Rose-breasted Cockatoo. Under surface very pale rose. Adult male, 29/4/02. Ptistes ERYTHROPTERUS (Gmelin), Red-winged Lory. hnmature male, 4/5/02. Interscapulum green, small portion only of upper wing coverts crimson. Platvcercus BROWNI (Temminck), Smutty Parrakeet. Adult male and female. A well-defined red mark across forehead ; cheeks bluish-white. Apparently this is a case of dichromatism. CoRVU.S BENNETTI (North), Short-billed Crow. Wing 1 1.3 inches. * Cf. Aovie. Zool., xii., 1905, pj). 192-242. 26 IIai.l, Birds from Toivnsend River, N .W . Australia. L,.t'"j'i'iiy Haliastuk (iiKRENKRA (Vieillot), White-headcd Sea-Eagle. Adult male, 16/8/02. HiERACIDE.v liEKlGORA (Vigors and Horsfield), Striped Brown Hawk. Adult male, 8/8/02. Cerchneis cenchroides (Vigors and Horsfield), Kestrel. Seven distinct crossbars on tail. • Syncecus australis (Temminck), Brown Quail. a. Adult male, 8/9/02. d, c, d, e. Adult females, 31/7, 4/8, 29/8, 8/9/02. TURNIX castanonota (Gould), Chestnut-backed Quail. Two adult males, 3/8, 4/8/02. Helodromas OCHROPUS (Linn.xus), Green Sandpiper. Adult female, 3/8/02. EULABEORNIS CASTANElVENTRis (Gould), Chestnut-bellied Rail. Adult female, 22/4/02. Primary coverts, quills, and tail scarcely differentiated in colour from the upper wing coverts and back. Middle toe and claw, 1.9 inches ; tarsus, 2.2 inches. This is interesting, as R. Bowdler Sharpe's " Hand-List " says doubtful to Australia. Nettorus pulchellus (Gould), Green Goose-Teal. Adult male, 8/9/02. Hydralector (sp.) .? Jacana. Unsexed, 6/8/02. Under surface white ; pale narrow band of orange across chest ; iris nearly grey on outer edge and grading into smoky-brown on inner ; bill, tip and culmen pale brown, balance pale yellow ; eyelids bluish ; legs pale greenish ; feet grey (Rogers). Total length, tip of bill to tip of tail, 7.5 inches ; wing, 4.5 inches; bill and lappet, 1.25 inches; tarsus, 1.85 inches ; middle toe and claw, 2.5 inches ; tail, 1.6 inches. Dupetor gouldi (?), Yellow-necked Mangrove-Bittern. Male skin. Culmen, 2.9 inches ; tarsus, 2.35 inches. Bill rather slender. No grey on upper surface (blackish-brown) : no special gloss on upper surface ; wing coverts edged with brown ; row of feathers down throat brown in addition to black. Geopelia smtthi (Jardine and Selby), Naked-eyed Partridge- Pigeon. a, /;, c. Three males, 2/8, 24/8, 8/9/02. Ocvpiiaps lophotes (Temminck), Crested-Pigeon. Male, 21/4/02. Vol. VII. 11)07 1 H.\i.L, Birds from Townseud Hirer, AMI'. Australia . 27 Myzo.MELA KRYTHR(JCEril.\LA (Gould), Red-headed Honey- eater. a, b, c. Adult males, 25/8/02. d. Immature male, 25/8/02. d. Chin, forehead, and cheeks faintly marked with red ; upper tail coverts earthy-brown, with one red feather only ; upper surface greyish. Cracticus PICATUS (sub-sp.), (Gould), Pied Butcher-Bird. Immature male, 27/8/02. General appearance earthen-grey and dull white. Graucalus iiypoleucus (Gould), White-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike. a. Adult male, 2/8/02. b. c. Adult females, 6/8, 12/8/02. The lores in b and c are greyish-black, dense black in a ; throat pale grey. Beyond this, the remaining under surface in a, b, and c is pure white ; flanks in all pure white. Alcyone PULCHRA (Gould), Purple Kingfisher. Adult female, 29/8/02. Colour very intense. Centre of breast rufous, like chest and abdomen. PaCHYCEPHALA MELANURA (Gould), Black-tailed Thickhead. a, b. Adult males, 26/8/02. c. Adult female, 26/8/02. BURHINUS grallarius (Latham), Stone-Plover. Male, 14 '8/02. Philemon ARGENTICEPS (Gould), Silvery-crowned Friar-Bird. Two adult males, 5/8, 12/8/02. Malurus ASSIMILIS (North), Purple-backed Wren. Adult male, 26/8/02. Glycyphila fasciata (Gould), White-breasted Honey-eater. Throat, sides efface, and forehead flushed with pale green. Rhipidura phasiana (De Vis), Pheasant Fantail. Adult male, 27/8/02. Rhipidura seto.SA (ISURa), (Gould), Northern Fantail. [See Novit. ZooL, vi., p. 425 (1899).] Adult male and female, 1/9/02. Primary wing coverts edged with white in male, almost imperceptibly so in female. Myl\gra rubecula (Latham), Leaden Fly-catcher. Adult male and female, 5/8, 12/8/02. Stiltia ISABELLA (Vieillot), Pratincole. Immature male, 25/5/02. CUCULU.S PALLIDUS (Latham), Pallid Cuckoo. Immature skin, 11/5/02. 28 Austin, Nnfes on Birds from Talhriif^ar River, N.S.W. [,,/'")"|y Field Notes on Birds from Talbragar River, New- South Wales. By Thos. B. Austin, Cobbora. Part I. Wedge-tailed Eagle {Uroai'tus audax).— An occasional visitor. I have only known of three nests here, one of which was deserted before completed. Whistling Eagle {Haliastur spheniirus). — Very numerous, especially recently (20/4/07). I counted thirty-two ilying practically in a flock. It is no uncommon thing to see half a dozen birds in the same tree. A great many of them breed here ; I have several times seen two nests in the same tree. Square-tailed Kite (Lophoic/inia isura). — This species is seen occasionally, but I only have one record of it breeding here. I found a nest last 27th October with three young. The nest was in a large red gum by the river. Little Falcon (Falco lunulafus). — A few seen at all times of the year, but I have never known them to breed here. Brown Hawk (Hieracidea orientalis). — Very plentiful at all times, but I have found very few nests. The young birds are very numerous at present. Nankeen Kestrel (Cerchneis cenchroides). — Always a few about, but at no time of the year in great numbers, and I have no record of them nesting here, although I think it most probable that they do breed in this district. BooBOOK Owl (Ninox boohook). — Very seldom seen, although it may be more plentiful than it appears to be. Crow (Corvus coronoides). — Like the Raven (Corone australis), much too numerous, as they are a continuous trouble amongst the sheep, especially in the lambing season, although I must say they do a great amount of good in many ways, but not enough to make up for the damage they do. They both breed here, and always make their nests in the very largest trees. Grey Jumper (Struthidea cinerea). — One of the most common birds of the district. No matter where one may go a flock of these friendly birds may be seen, but, strange to say, I have never seen one in this locality with white eyes; they all seem to have dark brown. At times they are a great trouble in the garden, as they nip off young peas, &c., as soon as they show above the ground. They breed here, mostly in the pine trees, and in a few instances I have known them to go about a mile to get the mud for their nests. White-winged Chough {Corcorax melanorhamphus). — Almost as jilentiful as the Struthidea cinerea. I consider it a very useful bird to the country, although the farmers give it a bad name. " They say it is very destructive on the young wheat crops, but I do not think it really does so much damage as people say. Magpie-Lark {Grallina picata). — This also is a very common bird in these parts. There are always a great many about a dam just outside my garden fence. I tried to count them one evening, but Vol. VII. 1907 j AvsTis, Xu/es Oil Ijii'c/s from I'atbyagav River, N .S.W . 20 found it a rather difficult matter, as some of them were always Hying. However, 1 was quite sure there were not less than seventy. Once while I was watching them something frightened them, and they all tfew up from the edge of the water; some of them went into the trees, but fifty-one settled on a fence. In a very short time most of them were upon the ground again. They breed here in the red gum trees by the river. Grey Shrike-Thrush {Colly riocinda harmonica). — Not often seen in this district, although there are a few about, but I have never known them to breed here. Ground Cuckoo-Shrike {Pieropodocys phasianella). — Always a few about, but never in great numbers, and I have onl}' one record of them breeding here, and that nest was within two hundred yards of my house. Bl.\ck-kaced Cuckoo-Shrike {Grancalus melanops). — A well-known bird throughout the district. They breed here, but, owing to the nests being so small, I liave very seldom noticed them. White-shouldered C.\terpillar-eater {Lalage tricolor). — Only a spring visitor, and not always then. If a good season a great number remain through the summer, but I have only once observed it breeding here. Brown Flycatcher (Micrasca fascinans). — This graceful, active little bird is with vis throughout the year, and nearly always found in pairs. Black-.\nd-White Fantail {Rliipidura tricolor). — A constant com- panion, and a great breeder in this district. Satin Flycatcher (Myiagra nitida). — Only to be seen here during the warmer months of the year, but never very numei^ous. Flame-breasted Robin (Petrccca phcenicea). — A few, but very seldom, may be seen during the winter months, but they never remain long. Red-capped Robin (Petneca goodenovii). — A few may be seen in the more thickly timbered parts, away from the n\er, but never numerous, and a few breed here. Hooped Robin {Petrceca bicolor). — The most common of all the Robins, and is always with us in great numbers. Although I have observed many nests in various parts of Victoria and New South Wales, I have not yet seen more than two eggs or young in a nest. This bird is seldom seen here in living trees ; it appears to keep to the country where the trees have been killed. Reed-Warbler (Acrocephalus australis). — Their loud warbles may always be heard during the summer in the sedges growing in the river, where their nests may be seen in great numbers if rowing in a boat. Very few of these birds remain during the winter months. Babbler (Pomatorhinus temporalis). — A permanent resident, and in great numbers. Their nests may be seen almost anywhere, with the exception of the trees by the river. Black-breasted Song-Lark {Cinclorhamphiis cruralis). — This species is only an occasional visitor, generally appearing in a good spring. 50 Austin, Xo/es oit Birds jrcm Talbra^ar River, N .S.W . \^^^^^"W■ Rufous Song-Lark {Cindorhamphus rufescens). — In a good spring this species is very plentiful, but some years not a single bird is to be seen. No record of a nest. Tricoloured Chat (Ephlhianura tricolor). — Like many other birds, only a visitor in a favourable spring, when this beautiful httle bird arrives about September in large flocks. Only one season have I known of it breeding here. In October, 1905, I observed four nests, all with eggs ; these are the only nests of this bird I have seen in this district, and, strange to say, I discovered them all within an hour, while rabbit-shooting. White-froxteu Chat {Ephthianiira albifrons). — Flocks of this species are occasionally seen, but they always appear to be travelling to some other part ; I have never known them to remain here. Whiteface {Xerophila leucopsis). — A permanent resident. They breed here, and one of their favourite places for building their nest is attached to the underneath part of the Whistling Eagle's (Haliastur sphenurus) nest. Black-backed Magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen). — Always plentiful, but not in such large numbers as they are seen in some districts. They are far more numerous than the White-backed {Gymnorhina leuconota). They both nest here. Black-throated Butcher-Bird (Cracticus nigrigularis). — Generally one or two pairs breed here, but I have never seen many of them about, and very seldom do any remain through the winter. Butcher-Bird (Cracticus destructor). — In no part of the State have I seen less of this familiar bird. Although its nests are common in most districts, I have no record of one here. Brown Tree-creeper {Climacteris scandens). — A bird which is always with us in great numbers throughout the year. Orange-winged Tree-runner (Sittella chrysoptera). — Not often seen, and only once have I observed it nesting here ; this nest I discovered before it was completed. Warty-faced Honey-eater (Meliphaga phrygia). — About on an average this handsome Honey-eater comes in October one year in three ; but this year it came in very large flocks about the end of March, and appears to be going to winter with us.* White-plumed Honey-eater (Ptilotis penicillata). — Perhaps the most common of all birds in the district. During the breeding season their nests may be seen in great numbers in the red gums and river oaks overhanging the river. This year I observed one with three eggs during the first week in March. :\IiNER {Manorhina garrula). — Little need be said of this well-known bird. It is very common here. Red W-attle-Bird {AcanihochcBra carunculata). — I observed a few of them nesting about one bend of the river last January. This is the only year that I have known them to breed here, although there are always a few about. They appear to be very partial to the trees by the river — seldom seen elsewhere. * Should this biril winter in the district, a record of tlie fact woiihl be of value and of interest. — Ki)S. Vol. VII. 1907 1 Austin, Notes on Birds from Talbragar River, S'.S.W . 3I Blue-faced Honi%y-eater {Entomyza cyanotis). — Rather numerous, especially during the autumn. I have never known them to breed here, although I feel sure they do. Friar-Bird (^Philemon corniculatus). — This species is a very common bird, and is one of the worst in the fruit gardens ; it is a great ti'ouble to the grape-growers. It is a permanent resident, and breeds in the river oaks. In the autumn they congregate in the trees by the river, and are exceedingly noisy. Red-tipped Pardalote {Pardalotus ornatus). — This lovely little bird sometimes builds its nest in a hollow of a tree, but more often in a tunnel in the banks of the river and creeks. No matter how high the bank is the tunnel is always made within a foot or eighteen inches of the top, generally just above the clay and in sandy soil. Fairy M.^rtin {Petrochelidon ariel). — They arrive here in very large flocks about September, and at once commence to build their peculiar bottle-shaped mud nests in great clusters under the overhanging banks of the river and creeks, sometimes in a partly burnt-out red gum tree leaning over the river. Tree-Martin (Peirochelidon nigricans). — Only on two occasions have I noticed this species, about half a dozen in each Hock, and I think they must have had young, as they were continually going in and out of holes at the top of two tall dead trees. Masked Wood-Swallow {Artamus personatus) ; White-browed WooD-SwALLOW {Artamns super ciliosus). — I have thought it best to mention these two species together, as their habits are so much the same, and they always arrive here in flocks of thousands together. I consider them (with perhaps the exception of the Straw-necked Ibis, Carphibis spinicollis) the very best friend amongst birds that the squatters have. The great numbers — in fact, countless millions — of caterpillars and grasshoppers that these beautiful little feathered creatures must destroy every day is without a doubt of wonderful benefit to the country. Although a few of the latter species remain here and breed, most of them, and all the former, depart for the breeding season. Tawnv Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides). — The only one of the four which I know of in these parts. Although it is a bird very seldom seen here, its peculiar notes may often be heard on a slill night, especially a little after sunset. I only once found them breeding here ; the nest was upon a thick bough of an apple tree. I could see one bird sitting on the nest, and it was not till I was within a few feet of it that I detected a second bird, not more than a foot from the nest. I think there must be a great number of these birds breed here. Owlet Nightjar {^goiheles novcs-hollandia,').— Though seldom seen, on account of its nocturnal habits, I think it must be rather common. It spends most of the day in hollow trees, from which it often flies out when one is travelling beneath with stock, only to be attacked by the Honey-eaters. Dollar-Bird (Eurystomus aiistralis). — A summer visitor in con- siderable numbers. Arriving in October, it leaves again in March. I once found a young one on the ground, whicii had evidently left its home before it could properly fly, for I had no difficulty in catching it, and of all the noisy youngsters I have ever heard I must give the Dollar-Bird first place. -J2 Alstin, Xoies on Bit'ds fvum Talbragar River, A'..S'.ir. [,,,''''j",iy Bkil-eatek {Merops ornatus). — Arriving in September, they soon set lo work at their tunnels in the sandy soil, where large numbers of them breed. Amongst all the birds that visit us there are few, if any, more beautiful than the Bee-eater, especially their graceful movements of a bright spring day ; their gold and green colouring flashing in the sun shows the bird off to great advantage. An Ex- Victorian Collector's Experience. From Seattle via Vancouver to Yokohama across the Pacific there is nothing of consequence to mention excepting a com- paratively pleasant ocean journey in one of the faiTious "Empress" liners. The ten days' stay at Yokohama, and partly spent at the capital of Japan, Tokio, naturally, too, belong to the few of the more agreeable experiences of a half-the-globe- round journey. So might be classed the trip by rail and steam- boat to the island of Hokaido, in the north of Japan, to the famous and now historic port of Hakotaite, from whence the bulk of the Japanese army was conveyed to Corea during the war. A ten days' halt there, on account of bad weather delaying our specially chartered steamer Stepney, afforded an opportunity for a closer acquaintance with the Japs and their ways, mingled with a fair dose already of serious business in the shape of repacking, &c. l^>om thence, on arrival of the slow but sure " tub," our party got under way and steam, coaling for the last time on the extreme north of the island, previous to plunging into the northern Pacific, towards our erstwhile goal, Kamtchatka. The two days' stoppage afforded an excellent opportunity for making the acquaintance of those primitive peoples, the Ainos, who dwell in hovels here — an ancient Mongolian race, allied to the Samoyedes in the north of Siberia, whose female relations tattoo moustaches on their upper lips. Petropaulovski, a small settlement on Kamtchatka, historically made famous and called into existence through the great, intrepid late Com. Behring, Capt. Cherikoff, and 'the ill-fated naturalist Steller, previous to their setting out for the discovery of the mysterious Arctic continent, was reached after i6 days' hard struggle with the watery elements, by shaping a course parallel to the chain- like islands of the Lopatkas, which connect the north of Japan with the Peninsula, and form the eastern limits of the Okotsk Sea. During this transit our first misadventure — blowing a hole out of the only boiler— happened, the mending of which accounted for drifting helplessly about for two days and nights. After final preparations, and the engagement of two Russians to act as hunters and guides, we steamed farther north, about 60 miles along the coast, that looked very much refrigerated at this ^"Ix^" I ^" Ex-Victorian CoUector's Experience. "5^ time of year (April), until we reached some likely bay, promising a field for sport — bear and mountain sheep. Further mishap was in store for us when attempting- a landing, unnecessarily precipitated by the over-haste, displayed all along the line, of our leader. Of the three boats brought with us, the first put over the side of the steamer, owing to rough sea and bad anchorage, got smashed. The second, loaded to the gunwales, got swamped immediately. With the utmost exertion we managed to save our gear and equipment. The damage by sea-water was serious. At last we got under way in an ugly sea, rowing ourselves into a big bay. The steamer left us here to return to Japan and Okotsk Sea for trading purposes. On the way to a landing place, after six hours' hard work, we got waterlogged, the boats leaking like sieves. This completed our discomfiture. Eventually, after a big struggle and frequent grounding, and by walking and wading up to our waists in the icy-cold sea, along the shore, shoving the overloaded boats, we came to a suitable camping ground. Everything was ice and snow bound, and to get our loads up the icy slopes was no joke. From 4 a.m. till 1 1 p.m. we slog and sweat our actual first day. This promised well for the future ! A week's stay at Bitchivinsky Bay, as this man- and God-for- saken ice-land is called, produced 8 bears and 2 sheep, and I did not get much rest or sleep tugging off and fixing up the hides and skulls of these brutes, not to mention the skinning and pre- paring birds. I had to shoot too. For about three weeks after, in daily stages of 20 hours' rowing and pulling in all sorts of sea and weather from bay to bay, along a dangerous coast, and not without narrow escapes, &c., we settled once more at another place, and no less desolate. There we erected a store camp, in which I was left behind by myself, whilst the others, taking the boats with them, went in search of happier hunting ground. Here I eked out a lonely and miserable existence for ten long days, with practically no nights, on account of the advancing season of the northern solstices. I was practically stranded and cut off from the world in case of disaster overtaking the others during their absence, being caged in on land by towering ice and snow-clad mountains to either side, and no chance of footing it anywhere in case of emergency. To my great relief the party hove in sight again, after the period mentioned, to take me up. Once more we faced the open sea, and landed some 30 or 40 miles farther north. Here it was that a more serious disaster overtook us, by attempting a landing with a gale that had sprung up, and which dashed our boats in pieces on the rocks. So we were practically shipwrecked, besides losing much gear and provisions, as well as private accoutrements. By dint of resource and much exer- tion we managed to repair one of the boats sufficiently to oA An Ex-Victorian Collector's Experience. [,^( 'j^ij. attempt the hazardous undertaking of trying to reach our store camp and bring provisions, which began to get scarce, except the everlasting bear flesh and mountain mutton. Here again, pending the return of the rest of the party for the purpose stated, I was left alone for i6 days. Summer had set in, how- ever, with " might and main," with a most prolific springing up of vegetation, and a wealth of flowers such as nowhere else occurs, tropics not excepted — the only compensation for the millions of vicious, biting mosquitoes, as active in the day as during the night (or, rather, its equivalent). The mosquitoes surpassed anything I ever experienced, and I am in a position to know and remember from Central Africa. They simply make life intolerable here, and one is glad when the cold winds set in again. However, the party returned safely, having dodged the elements, and soon after, on 15th July, our steamer Stepney returned, according to arrangement, to take us up from here north to Anadir and the extreme east coast of Siberia. Here we bagged 20 bears and as many mountain sheep, not forgetting some seals, which on one occasion when hunting them, threatened to swamp us by charging the boat. They are big brutes, and can become nasty customers occasionally. We were steaming and coasting, landing occasionally for the purpose of walrus-hunting, for 34 days. After being much knocked about and driven north as far as the Arctic Circle, negotiating the Behring Strait, we reached Nome in Northern Alaska late in August. A short stay here for refitting, and the old Stepney returned, or is supposed to have done so, to Siberia and Japan, and we embarked on a North-West American liner to go south-west to the Aleutian Islands, where we landed once more at Dutch Harbour. These islands are magnificent to look at, but not much for sport, except seal, fur and other. Our stay was brief, for a 5 -ton .schooner awaited us to take us back to the Behring Sea, north of the islands, to look for polar bear, but which we never sighted. More walrus here, and I do not want another experience with these flippered and tusked lumps. This was a poaching excursion, as their hunting and bagging is prohibited in these waters, so we had to keep quiet and dodge revenue cuttters ! After tliis bit of by-play we rounded the Alaskan Peninsula, and made the Island of Kodiak, where we re-equip in order to sail north again into Cook Inlet for hunting the quaint-looking and mighty moose. A week's sailing and tcssing brought us to the Kcnai Peninsula, where the real fun began, if a series of disasters may be called so. Seven attempts did we make going up the River Kassilof, to reach the Glacier Lakes and that of the Kenai River. We came to grief twice by upsetting on the rocks and in the rapids. I lost all except what Vol. VII. 1907 1 All Ex-Victoyian Collector's Expevicnce. 35 I stood in, and seeing that towing was too hot work to wear a coat, which I left in one of the boats, I even lost this. For four days I was in shirt sleeves, which is not exactly a warm feeling on these early autumn nights. Lost our best rifles and guns too, and best part of ammunition. But we persevered after re-equipping at the stores connected with the Salmon-fishing Company at the mouth of the river, and finally, after prodig- iously hard work, each man having nearly a hundredweight on his back to carry over the roughest of ground — impenetrable timber and scrub, as well as tundra — we secured our beasts. The never-to-be-forgotten grandeur of the scenery and superb sunsets, unsurpassed by anything I had seen elsewhere, fell flat. They were not properly appreciated on account of the hardships we endured in the hunt — it was all toil. The season being well advanced (October), it was advisable to make our trail before being caught in the grip of the winter, which sets in very soon, and so we turned the head of our schooner back. Again we got nearly wrecked, and thought it was our last hour, on Cape Elizabeth, in a gale, in which the strong current drove us rapidly on to the rocks, where so many craft have been lost before. However, we got off safely, and only just in time, and reached Kodiak, where we had to wait a week for a steamer. The pre- vious one, the Oregon, went down, and so did the one following us, as we learnt when in New York. But we were to experience a frightful gale yet before getting to Seattle, 14 days' steaming, and things looked very queer at one time. But what a revelation after the storm, in a clear atmosphere, along the mighty ranges of Mount St. Elias and into Icy Bay, up the Skagway, into hundreds of miles of glaciers down to a sea blocked with icebergs, and then, after Juneau, the beautiful forest-clad inside passage of the British Columbian coast — a fit finale to a turbulent holiday excursion of seven months, with not an hour's illness, and except bruises I feel none the worse, thank God ! New Variety of Zosterops. By Dr. George Horne, Melbourne. About eighteen months ago Miss Bowie had in her aviaries a grey Zosterops, or White-eye. Unfortunately it died, and was destroyed by a pair of Amherst Pheasants. Last month we were fortunate enough to obtain another specimen from Morang (Victoria), where the bird-catcher tells me he has often seen them. It forms a marked contrast to Z. arrulescens — the olive-yellow being replaced by grey. The markings on the primaries arc different and the abdomen ^6 HoRNJC, New Vaviety of Zosierops. [i-i^Juiy darker. The wings are longer and the tarsus shorter than in Z. cccru/esceus, and the bird appears rather sHghter in contour. The British Museum Catalogue describes 85 varieties of Zosterops, but the only one approaching it is Z. cinerea, of Kushai and Ualau Islands. It differs, however, in many- respects — notably in the lighter grey upper parts, badly marked eye-ring, brown tail, and yellowish feet. The tarsus, also, is very long. The following is a detailed description of the new bird : — General colour above, dark ashy-grey on crown, nape, hind- neck, and back ; upper tail coverts slightly lighter grey ; wing coverts brownish-grey, edged on outer web with lighter grey ; primaries grey, edged on outer web with fine margin of dirty- white, and on inner margin with broader band of the same colour ; quills very dark brown above, but whitish underneath ; forehead slightly darker grey than crown ; lores marked with a black streak, which is continued to encircle the lower half of the eye ; a ring round the eye of silvery-white feathers, very dis- tinct ; ear coverts like the head ; cheeks paler than the head ; chin and fore-neck ashy-grey, of a lighter colour than the back ; breast, abdomen, and under tail coverts of a uniform light grey, somewhat lighter than the neck ; sides of the body and flanks light chestnut ; thighs like the abdomen and under tail coverts ; tail grey, similar to primaries, but not edged on inner web, and edged on outer web with light grey ; upper mandible grey ; lower mandible light grey ; feet slaty-grey ; iris brown. Dimensions in inches : — Total length, 4.5 ; wing, 2.7 ; tarsus, .5 ; tail, 1.8 ; culmen, .4. I purpose calling this variety Zost crops bon'ue, or the Grey White-eye. Stray Feathers. Cape Barren Geese. — My friends in Launceston state that it is not an uncommon sight to see these Geese at different spots down the river (Tamar). During a recent visit I had the pleasure ot seeing between 20 and 30 of these fine birds feeding in a stubble field, which was on the fringe of a large reed-bed and morass, near that river. — T. HuRST. Caulfield (Vict.), 9/5/07- * * * Stone-Plover in Tasmania. — During a recent (Easter) trip to Tasmania, and whilst taking a drive from Launceston to Rosevear's, I saw fully 30 Stone-Plover feeding contentedly in a stubble paddock. I was not aware that the Stone- Plover was found in Tasmania. — T. HuRST. Caulfield (Vict), 9/5/'o7. [The first report of the Stone-Plover having been found in Tasmania is contained in The Proc. Roy. Soc. Tasmania, p. xxii. Till- vwr. r,\'. ]'n. PLATE tV. Nests of White-fronted Heron (Nolophoyx nov(e-hollandia:). (i.) With young and egg just chipped. (2.) With eggs. {These photographs were taken under most difficult circumstances, in tree-tops (red-gum eucalypts) in Kiverina.) FROM PHOTOS. SBY A. H. E. MATTINGLEY. Vol. VII. 1907 J Stray Feathers. 0-7 (1894-5). ^ P^"' ^y^^ obtained at Spring Bay, April, 1895. On ]\Ir. Hurst's evidence the bird may no longer be considered " accidental " to the island, but indigenous. — El)S.] Eagles. — A pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles is generally to be seen on the summit of the Buffalo Mountains. The surveyor, Mr. O. A. L. Whitelaw, imforms me that whenever he places a red flag as a trig, mark on a pole at the top of the Horn or the Hump these Eagles tear the flags to pieces, often within two hours of their being erected. Whether the birds object to the flag because it is red I cannot say, but Mr. Whitelaw was going to place a white flag on the pole, hoping it will not share the same fate as the red ones, I saw the claw marks of the birds on the pole when examining the torn remnants. — D. Le SouiiiF. Melbourne, April, '07. * * * Two Cuckoos Reared in One Nest. — In a letter lately received from my friend Mr. F. L. Berney, North Queensland, he makes the following statement : — " I made an interesting discovery a few days ago — a Crow's nest containing a young Crow and two young Scythrops or Channelbill Cuckoos, all appearing strong and healthy, and will be leaving the nest in a few days." The above note is of great interest, and it would be helpful if our other Queensland members would state whether they have noticed the same thing. If so, it would seem as though some Cuckoos' habits vary, the early habits of this particular bird being evidently well worth studying. — D. Le SOUEF. Melbourne. * * * The Hap.its of Tree-runners. — Concerning the inquiry in connection with the habits of Tree-runners,* I may state that I have observed both the male and female of the Black-capped Tree-runner taking part in incubation. We only have the one species {Sittella pileata) in our district, and they are very peculiar in their habits. They generally go in small flocks of eight or ten, and I have never seen more than one nest in connection with one flock. More than one pair (possibly the whole flock) help to build the nest. They often remove their nest when built ; I have watched them on different occasions pull the nest to pieces and remove it about 100 yards or more, for reasons best known to themselves. The nest is often finished for two or three weeks before they commence to lay eggs, but this is not always the case. Only the one pair feed the young ones, so far as I have been able to observe. — J. A. IIii.L. Kevvell, Victoria, 7th April, 1907. * See Emu, vol. vi. , p. 183. 38 Stray Feathers. [.sfTuly Have Birds Fixed Routes in Migration ?— In March last a Rufous Fantail {Rhipidnra rufifro7is), that handsome, delicate denizen of the mountain gully, appeared in the garden of the School of Horticulture, Burnley, evidently en route from the ranges to its winter haunts in the tropical scrubs of Queens- land. On 1 2th December last year a single bird appeared, and stayed in precisely the same part of the garden for a day or two. It is impossible, of course, to say that this is the same bird, but I suggest that it is, and that it passed the same spot on its out- going as on its incoming journey. Referring to my note-books I find I have records of solitary specimens of Rufous Fantails in the same locality as far back as the year 1896. All the records are in the months of either November, December, or March. — A. G. Campbell. Melbourne, April, 1907. Do Birds Reason } — The following anecdote about the Blue Wren suggests to me that they do. About our old homestead, near Sunbury, Blue Wrens were always common and very friendly, being easily attracted to the very doorstep by throwing out a few crumbs. One day a fine male appeared in company with his spouse and a brood of young birds. Some scraps of bread were thrown out for them to feed upon. One of the youngsters picked up a largish piece and endeavoured to swallow it. The male, seeing this, quick as lightning dashed in and took it from the other's mouth. Judge my surprise on seeing the parent, instead of swallowing it himself, proceeded to beat it up into small pieces to allow the young one to eat it without the danger of choking itself. — Isaac Batey. Drouin, April, 1907. Robins in Autumn. — On the 17th April, rather later than usual, the Flame-breasted Robin {Petnvca pJiceniced) appeared in numbers in the immediate vicinit}' of Melbourne, the proportion of red-breasted males in the flocks being about one to_ twenty. The majority, as is always the case, are either females or imma- ture males, and are of a very deep brown hue, which will in about a fortnight wear to a greyish-brown, more in harmony with the grey soil they love to frequent. A few days later a solitary specimen of Petrccca rJiodiriogastra in brown plumage was observed. I strongly suspect that this species is much more common about the m.etropolis in winter than is generally supposed, for it is easily mistaken for the female of P. pluriiicea, which it resembles at a distance, but it differs in being smaller, deeper in colour, and with a brownish mark on the wing instead of white, and in frequenting thick growths about the gardens or forest instead of the open country. ^"Igo"'] ^^''^y panthers. 3g I have a note of some negative importance concerning the summer habitat of Pctnvca pha'ntcca. During an ascent of Mt. William, in the Grampian Mountains, in the western portion of Victoria, an elevation of 3,827 feet above the sea, no Robins at all were seen. This was in March. There were none either in the low country, though later in the year they come about the farmsteads in small flocks. The highlands of eastern Victoria are abundant with the species all through summer, when they are not seen in the lowlands. However, on 8th May, when another visit was paid to the locality, several Flame- breasted Robins were seen about the foot of the mountains, where the stationary species {P. Icggii) is found all the year round. High up on one of the peaks, at an elevation of 2,500 feet, but in the shelter of a tea-tree gully, I was surprised to meet with a female P. rJiodinogastra. This is a previously unre- corded species for this area. — A. G. Campbell. May, 1907. Some Tasmanlvn Birds. — With regard to the suggestions in TJie Emu, vol. vi., page 210 — " Why should all Flame-breasted Robins leave lowlands at the approach of spring, and repair to the elevated regions and Tasmania to breed .'' " What evidence is there that these Robins do migrate } They certainly appear to remain with us all the year. Mr. Hubert Thompson has found six or seven of their nests within a small radius of Launceston, and, as to altitude, the highest would probably be not much over 300 feet above sea level. He has also seen a {q.v^ pairs in this district in midwinter, but the bulk of them seem to go to our coasts in the autumn, and remain there until next nesting season. It is not at all uncommon at Devonport and Table Cape, on the North-West Coast, to see twenty of these birds feeding in a small paddock, the minority only having the coloured breast, the remainder (hens and young males) being perfectly plain. Mr. Thompson has seen them congregate thus at Georgetown, near the mouth of the Tamar River. At the approach of the warm weather they disperse, and seem to prefer breeding away from the coast. The observations, extending over a number of years, of my friend and self point to the pro- bability of the male of this species not assuming its striking colours until at least the second year, quite probably the third. In their autumn and winter gatherings the .sober-tinted birds, as stated, are always in a large majority. " Why should Kingfishers be absent from Tasmania ? " I have frequently seen the beautiful little Alcyone aziirea on retired streams, which are seldom visited, and do not doubt that it would be much more common were it not shot at sight for its skin — another argument for the speedy imposition of a gun tax. There seems no reason why the Halcyon sanctns should not 40 Stray Feathers. [^I^"]\ flourish if introduced and protected from gunners for a few years.* As to the absence of the Lyre-Bird, it seems to be extremely probable that the Lyre-Bird originally existed here, but was killed out by the tiger-cats and devils, which are still plentiful in the forest gullies, and were without doubt far more so in the old days. In a small island like this a prominent bird such as Meniira would not stand the chance of a lengthy existence in the presence of so many bloodthirsty foes, and may have been exterminated a good many centuries ago. Probably the abor- igines, who were also numerous, would assist in its extinction, as the flesh would be to them a welcome change from kangaroo and shell-fish. The introduction or re-introdution of the Mennra would be a most desirable event, but I question if even now the bird could make a stand against its enemies, unless for the first few years it could be protected in large enclosures. — H. Stuart Dove, Launceston, lOth May, 1907. * * * Bird Life on the Buffalo Mountains in March. — Bird life is not plentiful on the Buffalo Mountains, probably on account of the cold during the winter, they being at an elevation of about 4,500 feet above sea level. A fine pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles {Uroactus audax) have made the range their home, and are often to be seen circling high above the topmost peaks of the mountain. They have a curious and decided objection to the red flags of surveyors. The rare Black Falcon [Falco S7ibniger) was also noticed on one occasion, that being the only other bird of prey seen besides the Eagles. Ravens {Corone australis) were in evidence, but were not numerous. Boobook Owls {Ninox hoobook) were also heard calling at night. A pair of White- backed Magpies (Gyninorlima leuconotci) had a nest in the belt of timber at the back of our tent. Perhaps the most plentiful of the larger birds was the Grey Crow-Shrike {Strepera cunei- caudata). Mr. O. A. L. Whitelaw, the geological surveyor, mentioned an interesting fact to me regarding these birds, as well as of the White-winged Chough {Corcomxviclanorhajnp/ms). He had set some " figure of four" traps for them and caught one or two, but no more. The others seemed to have seen the fate of their companions, and when the trap was reset they gathered about it and inspected it carefully, then one of the Crow-Shrikes cautiously went up, and, lifting up the string of the noose gingerly, put it on one side and took the bait, of course without getting caught. The Choughs followed its example, so my * Halcyon sancius is a migratory bird, and does not winter even in Victoria. Attempts have been made to rear young in captivity in Melbourne, but they have perished when the cold weather arrived. — Eds. ^''I-J^^-J Stray Feathers. 4I friend had to give up setting that particular kind of trap. Grey Shrike-Thrushes iyCollyriocincla hannouica) were plentiful, and their delightful notes were often heard ; they were very fearless. One pair had their usual bark nest in a small hollow at the side of a huge boulder of granite, and where it was perfectly sheltered and well out of reach — a very safe place, as no enemy could get to it. At the foot of the mountain the nest of a Ground-Thrush {GeocicJila liinulata) was noticed, built of moss, but no birds were seen. Several Flame-breasted Robins {Pctraxa plurniccd) were generally on the open ground in front of the tents, and only one Pipit {Anthns australis) was noticed. Blue Wrens {Maliiriis cyaneus) were seen on several occasions, as well as the Rufous Fantail {RJiipidura rufifroiis) and Brown Tit {Acantliiza piisilld). We saw several pairs of Spotted Ground-Birds iyCinclosonia punctatuin), and they were also very tame, In the scrub by the creeks, on the way up the mountain, the cheery call of the Pilot-Bird {Pyciiopti/us floccosus) was heard on several occasions, also that of the Butcher-Bird {Cracttcus destructor'). The White- naped Honey-eater {Mclithrcptus lunnlatus) was seen, and also the White-throated Thickhead {Pachycep/iala outtura/is), Bell Miner {Manor/nna melanopJirys), and Red Wattle-Bird {AcantJiocJicura caruncnlata) as well as the Gang- Gang Cockatoo {Cal/ocep/ialon galcatmu) and Crimson Parrakeet {Platycerciis elegans). The beautiful clear note of the Lyre-Bird {Menura victoricE) was often heard, and on listening to one at his playing mound in the scrub we noticed what a wonderful mocking-bird he was, and how quickly he passed from the note of one bird to that of another, almost running one note into the other. These birds are apparently being slowly but surely killed out by the foxes. — D. Le Souef. Melbourne, 25th April, 1907. Black-cheeked Falcon and Pigeons. — Yesterday, 19th April, I witnessed a sight that was full of interest and a great object lesson in regard to instinct among birds. A Falcon being observed hovering near the Pigeon-house, my son ran for the gun, and by the time he had got it and a couple of cartridges the bird had risen to a good height, far beyond gun-.shot. As it continued to ascend higher and higher by soaring in circles we ob-served seven of the Pigeons above the Falcon, circling also to attain greater altitudes. This continued for several minutes until both the bird of prey and its frightened sky-mates appeared very little larger than Sparrows. The design of the F'alcon was to me a[)parent all through the proceedings. His object was to reach an altitude above that of his intended victim, so that the necessary downward swoop could be accomplished. The Pigeons obviously were aware of the plot, and were just as anxious to keep above their enemy. When at an immense 42 S/ray Feathers. [ ist^"july height suddenly two Pigeons left the other five and struck out across the sky. Quick as lightning the Falcon followed. The two Pigeons separated, and their enenay's chance had arrived. Singling out the bird on the right, the Falcon quickly lessened the gap between itself and its victim. The poor Pigeon, evidently noting this, headed for some tall pines in a thick plantation, and when over them, though many hundreds of feet above in the clear sky, closed its wings and dropped. Though the Pigeon was a good distance in advance, by the time it came over the pine tops (about 80 feet high) the Falcon with a down- ward swoop reached to within a yard of it. This ended the scene for us, as both birds were lost to view. Having no doubt the Falcon had caught its intended prey, we hastened to the spot, expecting to see it on the ground feasting. We searched about everywhere, but no trace of either bird could we find. Two hours later, just as the sun was setting, my boy said his Pigeon had returned, and on catching it we found it severely maimed on the right breast, just under the wing. The wound had the appearance of having been caused by contact with some object, and I am of opinion that a pine branch or other obstacle had been struck with terrific force by the poor bird in her last supreme effort to evade her murderous pursuer. It was indeed a grand sight, and that downward swoop of the P'alcon's was something never to be forgotten. The noise must have been considerable, tiiough we were too far away to hear. The swoop must have been from 800 or 1,000 feet elevation. I have had many experiences of this Falcon chasing its pre}^ of different kinds, but no previous experience from start to finish could compare with this. I once saw a bird chasing a flock of White Cockatoos, and so frightened were the flock that I fired four shots and killed half a score of them before they realised that I was an enemy also. In this case the Falcon settled on a neighbouring tree, and made off on the first two barrels being discharged. On a second occasion I saw a Falcon attacking a flock of Black Cockatoos. This time I tried to shoot the bird of prey, but it would not allow me to approach near enough. I have also seen these Falcons catch and kill a White-fronted Heron, but this was a very easy task, the Heron being so slow. I do not think this Falcon ever takes a bird from a sitting position, as I have observed in the case of the Cockatoos and Herons that as soon as its intended prey alights it does so also, or else soars around until the frightened birds again take wing. The final act is usually accomplished with a swoop. Falcons, both White-fronted and IMack-cheeked, are extremely rare here, and hence opportunities for observing their mode of securing their prey are divided by long years in most instances. I have also frequently witnessed the Brown Hawk and Goshawk, also the fierce little Sparrow-Hawk, catching birds, but though very V°;-J^"] Stray Feather,. 43 interestini^" and in.structive to a bird observer, it is (juite a mild affair when compared to the thrilh'ng sight I have endeavoured to describe of a Falcon at the same game. — GEO. SllEi'liERD. Somerville, 20/4/07. Wedc.e-tailed Eagle and Lambs. — My experience of this magnificent bird dates from 27th of January, 1846, on which date we arrived at Redstone Hill, a small sheep-run close to the present Sunbury. Although very young at the time, it is well remembered that Wedge-tails were exceedingly numerous ; hardly a day passed without seeing them. The birds were terribly destructive at lambing time, so much so that if green lambs were not closely watched the number would have been greatly reduced. With all our vigilance lambs were sure to be killed, not when the shepherds were on guard, but when their backs were turned. In 1849 my father obtained strychnine, consequently when lambing began on the Emu Creek next season he played havoc with the Wedge-tails, as may be judged by the fact that I had fourteen dead ones laid out in a row, two of which, to the best of recollection, had fallen to the shot-gun. Doubtless more than specified were poisoned, for Brodie's Forest came to the opposite side of the Emu Creek ; besides, there were timbered lands on our side of the stream. The above-mentioned were not searched, hence it is reasonable to assume that more dead birds would have been found. Now, with reference to the slaughter of lambs by Eagles, though my experience embraces six decades, I never saw a lamb actually killed by one of these birds. On this point all that can be said with any degree of certainty is that the Eagle in all cases had driven his strong talons into the brain of the victim. The skull of a lamb at birth, and for some time afterwards, is exceedingly fragile ; the muscular development of the bird's legs is very great, while its talons are keen, sharp, and long, and as a natural .sequence when pressure was applied the Eagle's claws went into the lamb's brain with ease, leaving marks like pellets of shot. In my experience I never saw a lamb's skull crushed up. Judging from a Wedge-tail which we kept in captivity for some years, the bill, powerful as it seems, is not an offensive weapon. This bird was taken as a fledgling from a nest built in a tall tree beyond Mt. Aitken homestead. We used to keep it secured with a dog-chain affixed to the top of a stump. Frequently the bird got loose, but, as one wing was always clipped, recapture was easy enough with the aid of a cornsack. Throwing this over the escapee he was muffled up tightly, then a firm grip was taken of both legs above his ankles. It would close its beak on my hand. A Musky Lorikeet can nip sharply enough to draw blood, but this Easrle with his formidable bill did not make a scratch. 44 ^"^f'^y P^^^'^^rs. [J"]l,^. Putting all things together, my opinion is that our magnificent Wedge- tailed Eagle only uses the bill in tearing off the flesh of the slain animal, for which the crook in the upper mandible is well adapted. Some few years ago three of these fine birds were seen in company pursuing rabbits amongst thistles, when finally, getting one into the open, puss was captured in fine style. The bird tried to fly off with the prize, but the animal, a full-grown one, was far too heavy. On examining this rabbit it was found that it had been killed with a vice-like grip of the bird's talons across the back sufficiently forward to compress heart and lungs. When an Eagle feasts on a young lamb it stands upon the carcass : our pet did the same when rabbits were flung to it. This bird when in that position worked the sharp hook of its bill into the carcass, then with an up-drag tore off the flesh. In devouring a lamb the Eagle broke into its side just behind the shoulder, and directly over the heart, lungs, and liver. Having swallowed these, the rest of the body was picked over. There is very little flesh on a lamb a few days old — in fact, less than is found on a full-grown rabbit — and our tame bird could easily dispose of the latter in a short time. Concerning the weight-carrying powers of a Wedge-tailed Eagle, it was stated one attempted to soar off with a rabbit and failed in that effort. Amongst birds of prey it is generally held that the female is larger than the male, consequently may carry a heavier weight. In my sheep experience never on any occasion have I seen an Eagle try to fly with even a green lamb, and at that stage it is very light. It is true there was no absolute necessity to make that effort, because lambing falls long before these destructive birds commence to nest. It was common enough to see the great creatures circling about — apparently for the fun of the thing — with the cleaned-up skeleton of a lamb in their claws. The aforesaid remains comprised skull, vertebrae, legs, and skin. Wedge- tailed Eagles are not fastidious in their appetites, for they will eat the flesh of animals that die from natural causes, even when their carcasses have become putrid. This, in my opinion, is the reason why strychnine is so fatal to them. My father's mode of squaring accounts with the pest was taking a dead lamb, and, removing heart, lungs, and liver, cut them into tempting morsels, strewed them around, touched each with a dose of the deadly poison. This done, he put strychnine on the remains. One day, with my brother, I went off two hundred yards to await events. Before the lapse of ten minutes an Eagle settled down. Its first proceeding was to bolt the scraps, then, stepping on to the carcass, it began to operate upon it. In a short space of time it became " wobbly," moved a few feet away and fell prone on its breast. The pair of us, running forward, found it beating the ground with partially extended wings, in the last throes of death. During this same Vol. VII.-] Siyay Feathers. A.<=^ iyo7 year I witnessed another Eagle's death from strychnine. Three or four were circhng leisurely around above a grassy slope, but how high in the air cannot be said, save that they were beyond the range of a shot-gun. All at once one of them, shutting its wings tight, fell head foremost like a stone to the earth, and, hurrying across, I found the Eagle quite dead. Whether its life went out with the first contraction of the wings or whether impact with the ground finished it are points that cannot be decided. Some thirty years ago I had the opportunity of a lifetime in noting an Eagle making a swoop to capture a hare that was hiding in a bunch of tussock grass on our sheep-run. Beyond question, it was a magnificent sight — in fact, no word- painting could give it accurately, for it was one of those things whose sublimity can only be realised by the eye. The bird when first observed might be one thousand paces distant, its altitude in the air two or three hundred yards. He swept forward with great speed — in short, I had never seen a Wedge- tail travelling so swiftly before. There was no flapping of wings. The whole performance was on a very gradually lowering line, whose terminus was a few feet directly above the game. On gaining that point he turned round, but before he accomplished that purpose, puss, springing from her cover, darted for a fence that had a 2-foot wall under its wires. The Eagle at once went in pursuit. The hare evaded him by running close to the wall — a favourite dodge with hares when chased by Wedge- tails. Eagles are now rare birds in the region where I was brought up. This clearance resulted from the free use of strych- nine. Before the advent of that deadly poison our only means of coping with them were shot-guns, but if we had depended on them as engines of destruction Eagles would be plentiful now. In my boyhood's days they could be writ down exceedingly numerous. Some of the squatters had used iron dog-traps ; one bird was shot minus a foot, which it was supposed to have left in the jaws of a trap. They are hard to kill with loose shot ; if sitting with back towards the shooter their wings protect them, while if fired on directly in front it takes strong-going lead to reach vital parts. An overhead flying shot, I have found, is not effective. — ISAAC Batey. Drouin, Victoria, 15th April, 1907. Forgotten Feathers. By H. Kendali,, Melbourne. Nomenclature of the Emu. — Under the title " How the Australian Emu Came by its Vernacular Name," Mr. J. J. Fletcher, M.A., B.Sc, has rendered a great service to the orni- thologists of Australia by recalling some "Forgotten F'eathers." He has had facilities for examining early records which to many are a sealed book. Beginning with the arrival of Governor /|.6 Forgo/ten Pea/hers. [,^( Emu July Phillip, on 26th January, 1788, he cites many references to the bird which has given the title to our magazine. When The Etiiu was started the then editors consulted authorities versed in philology,* and, after receiving their opinions, decided that the vernacular and spelling adopted by the Australian Association for the Advancement of Science should be adhered to. Mr. Fletcher's citations justify this decision. From Captain Tench's " Narrative of the Expedition to Botany Bay, &c.," dated 1879, he quotes :— " The bird which principally claims attention is a species of Ostrich, apparently nearer to the Emu of South America than any other we know of," and gives the captain's description of physiological and structural details of the bird. Mr. Fletcher claims that the whole story of the nomenclature of the Emu rests on the possession by Captain Tench of a copy of Goldsmith's " Animated Nature " (a work consulted before the spelling of the name of this magazine was decided upon). In this work three species of Striithera are given — • " under vernacular names only, as the Ostrich, the Emu, which many call the American Ostrich, and the Cassowary." He proceeds to say that Captain Tench and his colleagues held " a sort of scientific inquest upon the new bird." But Mr. Fletcher shows that Tench's account leaves us to draw our own conclusions upon two important matters — namely, exactly how the verdict that it was not the American Emu was arrived at, and whether their verdict was a unanimous one. The spelling of Emu was changed in subsequent English publications, in deference to British authorities, who possibly declined to recognise the bird as a new species, and thought it only a variety of the Cassowary. Captain Hunter, says Mr. Fletcher, is the only writer who uses the spelling Emew, but thinks that possibly this was due to a typographical error " which passed unnoticed." This theory is hardly tenable, as Prof. Newton, who has made a study of the word, uses by preference Emeu, a closely allied form, but one which, as has been pointed out by Mr. T. S. Hall, of the Melbourne University, is open to serious objections. When Prof Tucker was consulted, he wrote: — "It appears to me that the pronuncia- tion attached to the words was that of our Emu, and with the usual practice of early travellers, who were not phoneticists, the spelling was open to variation.* The current form in ancient times was not Emeu." Mr. Fletcher claims that the name " was not given in a haphazard way, but that it was the outcome of a genuine attempt to name the bird correctly," which, judging from many other authorities consulted, was undoubtedly done. Those who wish to pursue the subject should consult vol. i., p. 5, 1st January, 1907, of TJie A?istralzati Naturalist, for the full text of Mr. Fletcher's paper. * The Emu, vul. i. , ]>. 5. VoLVli. 1 ptoin Magazines, &-c. Ay From Magazines, &c. Bronze-wing Pigeon. — In a letter published in the October number of T/ie Avicultural Magazine Mr. D. Seth-Smith states that four cocks and two hens of the Bronze-wing Pigeon {PJiaps chalcoptera) have been presented by Sir Wm. Ingram for libera- tion in Regent's Park. The Rev. H. D. Astley sent to the November number of The Avicultural Magazine di photograph of a live male Alexandra Parrakeet {SpatJiopterus alexaudrce) in his aviary. The mate of this bird laid three clutches of eggs in the summer months of April, May, and June, and sat splendidly, but all the eggs proved infertile. * * * New Honey-eater. — In The Victorian Naturalist, vol. xiii., p. 104, Mr. A. J. North, C.M.Z.S., &c., by permission of the Trustees of the Australian Museum, has described a new genus and species of Honey-eater from Rennell Island, Solomon Group. It has been named generically after its discoverer, Mr. R. M. Woodford, Government Resident of the Group, Wood- fordia supcrciliosa. The prevailing colour above is brown, washed with dull olive-green. Total length, 6 inches. The description is accompanied by a fine half-tone block of the skin, which shows an unusually large bill and stout tarsus for a Honey-eater of its size. It is a doubtful point whether it is justifiable to name a genus after a person, in place of giving it some more appropriate designation characterising some im- portant structure by which all students can identify it. In the journal published by the Victorian Department of Agriculture for P'ebruary, 1907, is an article on the Yellow- breasted Robin {Eopsaltria austral is), illustrated by a coloured plate. It is a praiseworthy idea that the Government should endeavour to acquaint the producing public with useful insec- tivorous birds. The figure, which, however, serves for identifica- tion, depicts the Robin sitting on a small dead limb that stands in a crop — a most unnatural set of circumstances for such a bird to be in, seeing " its home usually is the heavily timbered country near gullies, rivers, and creeks." In the April number of the journal appears another plate— the Coachwhip- Bird [Psophodes crepitans) — which might also be improved upon. P'urther, it is to be regretted that species have been selected for illustration which are not common insectivorous birds, to the neglect of species like Magpies, Tits, and others, which are of far more practical value. /1 8 From Magazines, &c. [ ,^^ 'j"iy Regent-Bird. — Mr. Reginald Philllpps, in TJie Avicultunil Magazine for March, contributes " Further Notes on the Regent- Bird." Mr. Phillipps' " Further Notes " have reference to a bird successfully hatched in August, 1905 (see Emu, vol. v., pp. 220- 222), but which unfortunately died during February this year. On dissection it proved to be a male. On examination aftei death some of the " specks " on the mantle were found to have yellow centres, though possibly there may not have been more yellow, or " yellowish," on the upper parts than is usual at certain seasons on the adult female. But the under side of the wings, especially towards the axillaries, was suffused with yellow in a manner not noticed in the female. Up to death the bird retained its dark bill and eyes ; and that neither yellow patch nor black tip should have appeared on the flights would seem to demonstrate (Mr, Phillipps is of opinion) that the male Regent- Bird cannot come into full plumage until he is at least four years old. * * * Hybridisation. — In the October number of Tlie Avicultural Magardne Dr. A. G. Butler writes at considerable length on experiments in hybridisation, with particular reference to the PloceidcE. He describes, amongst others, a remarkable cross between Staganoplcura guttata and Tceniopygia castanotis. The bird was bred in captivity in Australia many years ago, and was received in England by Mr. D. Seth-Smith in April last. In appearance it resembles the Spotted-sided Finch (male parent) more than the Zebra Finch (female parent), but its song resembles that of the Zebra Finch. It has a curious reddish colouring on the chest, absent in both of the parent birds, and the bill is not nearly so red as in either parent. In the course of his article Dr. Butler remarks : — " It is, I think, probable that the Waxbills are an offshoot from the Grass- P'inches, which in many respects they resemble ; they are more sprightly in their movements, have better trained voices, and though they court their wives much in the same fashion, holding a long grass stem in their beaks, they hold their beaks pointing upwards rather than in the depressed fashion common to the Grass-Finches and Mannikins." Australian Parrots at the Crystal Palace Show.— The class for Parrakeets was better filled than usual, the first prize going to a fine pair of Bourke's, sent by Mr. H. Peir, of Sydney,* who also exhibited a specimen of the rarer Blue- banded Grass-Parrakeet {Neopheina venusta), which the judge did not deign to notice. Mr. H. Cooper received the second * A member of llie A.O.U. Vol. VII. 1907 I Fruin Magazines, &c. AQ with a nice pair of Red-vented Blue Bonnets {PscpJiotus hce- inaton/ioiis), a species which has recently been imported more freely than the better-known Yellow-vented form {P. xanthorr- hotis)* A Varied Lorikeet, Barnard's, Crimson -winged, and King Parrakeets were also present. The most conspicuous exhibit in the class for Parrots was a fine pair of Banksian (Black) Cockatoos belonging to Sir C. Lawes Wittewronge, I3art. The male was a magnificent bird — the first adult male of this Cockatoo exhibited for many years — but the female was not in quite such good trim, and as the two had to be judged as one exiiibit the judge gave the first prize to a single female of the same species, a well-known prize-winner, in better condition than the female of the pair. Had the male of the above pair been exhibited alone he would doubtless have been awarded premier honours. — Avicultural Magazine, March, 1907. * * * Plu.MED-Doves. — TJic Avicnlticral MagavJne for December last contains an instructive article on these interesting little Pigeons by Mr. D. Seth-Smith, F.Z.S. The article is accom- panied by a coloured plate of a male of the White-bellied species {Lophophaps leucogaster), by Mr. H. Gronvold, also a black and white sketch of a bird in the act of " displaying." This interior species is now well known in various Australian zoological gardens. Mr. Seth-Smith writes concerning his experience of five — two males and three females — which he obtained in 1905. At first these birds were very shy, but soon became tame. Then it was found impossible to keep more than one pair together. They were terrible bullies, and a male would soon clear the place of every ground bird except the female he is mated to. Even then, after caressing each other affectionately for a time, the male would suddenly turn on his mate and chase her all over the enclosure. The "display" of the male Plumed-Pigeon is very pretty and frequently performed. He bows to his mate, at the same expanding his tail and wings and showing off the wonderful patch of iridescent purple-bronze on the latter to the best advantage. One hen laid several clutches of eggs but made no attempt to incubate. Canary and millet seed, Mr. Seth-Smith observes, seems to be all that these birds require in the way of food in captivity. * * * Concerning Quails. — The genus Cotumix — the true Quails — contains in all seven species, one of which, C. novce-rjealandicu, is on the verge of extinction in its native home, the islands of New Zealand. ■[■ C. cotumix ranges over the greater i)art of Europe * For some remarks on these forms see " Annotations," Etiiti, vi., p. 199. t This species miyht possibly be replaced by the AustraHan bird, C. pectoralis. ^O From Magazines, Src. [ist "j'uiy Africa, and Asia ; C. capensis inhabits South Africa ; C.japonica, China and Japan; C. coroinandelica, t\\Q Indian peninsula; C. ddegorgnci, Central and South Africa ; while C. pectoralis is confined to Australia and Tasmania. In TJie Avicultural Magazine for November, 1906, Mr. D. Seth-Smith, M.B.O.U., contributes some notes on the genus, five of the species of which he has kept in his own aviary. He states : — " As far as cabinet ornithology is concerned there is practically nothing by which to separate the genus Cotiirnix from the genus Syna:ciis. They are, however, perfectly distinct in life. In the first place, the appearance of Swamp-Quails is quite different from that of true Quails. They appear to be much shorter in the legs, but run much faster. The most interesting point of difference is in their breeding habits. Both Syncecus and Excalfactoria are strictly monogamous, and both sexes brood the young, whereas Cotitrnix is semi-polygamous, by which I mean that, although a male will pair with only one female at a time and remain true to her until incubation commences, he will promptly leave her when this period arrives and seek another mate. If the birds are in an enclosure where there is no other hen Quail there is a danger of the cock bullying the hen and driving her off the nest. When the young are hatched the male Coturnix does not attempt to brood them^ — in fact, if he approaches he is promptly driven off by the mother." Concerning the Australian species, he says a female in his aviary reared a brood of seven ; the young males commenced to show black streaks on the breast when five weeks old, and were in adult plumage by about eight weeks. The article is illustrated by an excellent coloured plate picturing the heads of six of the species. * * * GOULDIAN Finch. — The plumage phases of the Gouldian Finch {Pocp/nla mirabilis) forms the subject of an interesting article by Dr. A. G. Butler in the September number of The Avicultural Magazine. Dr. Butler thinks that the Red-headed variety of this species is a mutation from the Black-headed variety. " My young birds," he writes, " left the nest before the end of September last year, and by the end of the following April they were just beginning to assume their adult colouring. One, which proves to be a hen, was in full colour by 17th June, and is a typical P. gouldice — at any rate, I can see no red on the face at a distance of 8 feet or so ; the other, which is a cock bird, cannot complete its change to the adult plumage before about the middle of the present month (August) ; it is a well-marked P. mirabilis, far better marked than its mother was. I have not the least doubt that, if this pair were to go to nest together, they would produce a majority of young of the Red-headed variety; the male, though bred from a Black-headed father and an ill- ^°';J^"-] Ff'om Magazines, &c. 5 1 defined Red-headed rnother, being a typical P. viirabilis, and the female, though of the P. gouldice type, having red blood in her veins, would certainly tend to throw Red rather than Black- headed young." In the February number of The Avicultural Alagaziiie Dr. A. G. Butler describes the nestling plumage of PocpJiila inirabilis as follows : — " Upper surface ash-grey washed with olive-green, the forehead darker grey ; inner webs of flights and inner portion of outer webs of primaries dark smoke-grey ; central tail feathers blackish towards tips, outer feathers grey, the remainder with grey inner webs ; sides of face whity- brown with a faint oliv- aceous tinge, cheeks slightly browner, chin whitish with barely perceptable tinge of olive at the sides ; breast pale dove-brown ; abdomen white, slightly washed with golden-buff at the sides ; under tail coverts white ; under wing coverts white faintly tinged with yellow at the base ; flights below leaden-greyish ; beak darker than in adult bird ; feet flesh-coloured, the digits dusky below." * * * Chestnut-breasted Finch and Yellow-rumped Finch. — Some interesting notes on the breeding of the Chestnut- breasted Finch {Mnnia castaneitJiorax) and Yellow-rumped Y\x\z\\{^]\I. flaviprymna) are contributed to the February number of TJie Avicultiwal Magazine by Mr. VV. E. Teschemaker. Discussing the question of the latter bird's claims to rank as a distinct species — for it has been regarded as merely a variant form of M. castaneitJiorax — Mr. Teschemaker sums up as follows; — "I think we shall not be far from the truth if we assume that these are distinct species, compelled to associate by a chance circumstance ; and that the dark-throated birds are wild hybrids, showing their mixed parentage after the first moult." The nesting of the Yellow-rumped species in Mr. Teschemaker's aviary must have been very interesting to follow. " On a wet and cold day," writes their owner, " the youngsters were sitting, huddled up and quite incapable of flying more than a very short distance, in a low bush not more than 2 feet from the ground, whereas the nest box was quite G feet from the ground. . . . Just at twilight both the old birds flew up to the nest and began to call loudly. Instantly the young commenced to scramble up to the top of the shrub. The strongest one then jumped oft" on to the wire-netting and began to crawl up like a little mouse, using its feet chiefly. But, alas ' long before it reached the nest its strength gave out and it fell to the ground. Again the parents called it, and again it fell. . . . After trying other tactics unsuccessfully the old birds began to push the young, which would hardly make any effort, from branch to branch. ... At last they got one into the 2 I'yoin Magazines, ufc. I ,^( j^l nest, and the delight of these two old birds was good to see." In his notes on the Chestnut-breasted Finch Mr. Teschemaker writes: — "At 1 8 days a young Chestnut-breasted Finch is a little brown bird, exactly resembling a young M. flaviprymna, and totally unlike its parents. It has not a black or a white or a chestnut feather on it. After that age, however, there is not the smallest resemblance between the young of these two species," Mallee (Victoria) Notes. — " Mallee-Bird " writes : — (i.) Regarding late breeders: — "3rd March. — Three nests White-browed Wood-Swallow, eggs in each. On the 5th of March, Yeilow-rumped Diamond-Bird's nest. Did not dig the burrow out, but, judging by the well-worn footmarks at the entrance to the nest, it contained young ones. I have now found in these parts this Pardalote's nest every month from June to March. " On the 29th March, Graceful Honey-eater's nest, with two well-fledged young birds in it. This Honey-eater's nest I have now met with every month from August to March. On the 30th, Allied Diamond-Bird's nest, with eggs ; also on 30th March, Mallee-Fowl's nesting mound with three eggs in a forward state of incubation. This is the latest I have known the Mallee-Fowl to be working at their nesting mound." (2.) Notes on migration : — " White-shouldered Lalage. — This bird takes its departure from here as soon as the young ones are strong enough on the wing to accompany the old birds. They migrated on or about 26th January. These birds seem to all leave at the one time. On the arrival of the Lalage in these regions I have always noticed that the male birds come a week to ten days in advance of the female birds. I would like to know if any other observer has noticed this. " The Bee-eater. — These birds always begin to congregate about eight to twelve days before they migrate, the flock getting larger each day, and the cries of the birds become louder as they rise higher and higher into the air each succeeding day. Finally they take their departure at night time. The first lot of Bee-eaters left on or about the 2nd February. The second and final lot, which were the season's young birds — a few of the old female birds always remain to accompany the young ones on their migratory flight — left on or about the 27th February. " Both the Masked and White-browed Wood-Swallows left the Mallee in two batches, the first lot early in March, the second about i8th April. Odd specimens of the White-brow are here yet, and seem to have taken up with the common Wood-Swallow, which do not, according to my experience, leave Vol. Vll."j From Magazines, &c. ^--^- [JT^^y indigenous birds of New Zealand, are mentioned the following Australian species : — Nettion castaneuni (Teal), PJialacrocorax sidcirostris (Little Black Cormorant), Sula sula (Booby), Sula cyaiiops (Masked Gannet), Pelccamis coiispicillaUis (Pelican), CercJineis cencJiroides (Kestrel), ChcEtiira cimdacuta (Spine-tailed Swift), Cucidus saturatus {intermedins) (Oriental Cuckoo), and Petnvca vittata (Dusky Robin of Tasmania, but admitted only provisionally, and correctly so), Fulica australis (Coot), Larus nov(2-]iollandi(e (Silver Gull), Limonites ruficollis (Little Stint), Glottis nebulariiis {Gr&ens\\?iX\k), A ncylochilus subarqiKxtns (Curlew Sandpiper), Galtijiago australis (Snipe), Stiltia isabella (Pratin- cole), Plegadis falcincellus (Glossy Ibis), Ardea cinerea (Grey or Common Heron), Anous stolidus (Noddy). Sir Walter Buller's last paragraphs in his great work, written under Glaucopis ivilsoni (Blue-wattled Crow), are : — " The four specimens, dressed, as I have mentioned above, with loving hands, and prepared with so much labour, were, in point of fact, the foundation of a collection which in after years assumed important proportions, and was, on the publication of my first edition, in 1872-3, presented by me to the colony, when it straightway became the ' type collection ' in the Colonial Museum. This was done in recognition of the generous assist- ance accorded to me by the Stafford Government in the pro- secution of my scientific work. " My second collection was sold by me, on the publication of my second edition, in 1888, to the Hon. Walter Rothschild, for the Tring Museum — on the assessment of Professor Newton, of Cambridge — for ;^i,ooo; and my third collection, on the completion of this 'Supplement,' to the Carnegie Museum, Pittsburg, U.S.A., for a similar sum, the price having been arrived at after a careful valuation by Dr. Bowdler-Sharpe, the assistant keeper in charge of the ornithological collections in the Ikitish Museum. All three collections will therefore be avail- able for the student of the future, when many, if not most, of the species will have passed away for ever. I think these facts are worth recording, seeing that the collections relate to a fauna characterised by Professor Newton as the ' comparatively little changed relic and representative of the early fauna of much wider range.' In a private letter to myself this same high authority observes : — ' The New Zealand avifauna is undoubtedly the most interesting avifauna in the world.'" ["Wild Life in Australia." By W. II. Dudley Le Souiif, C.M.Z.S., M.B.O.U., &c., Director Zoological Clardens, Melbourne. With 170 original photographs by the author and others. Christchurch, Wellington, and Dunedin, N.Z. ; Melbourne, and London : Whitcombe and Tombs Limited.] " Wild Life in Australia " is a book written for " the millions," but especially for the lover of the open field and of nature. It v°'-y"-l Reviezvs. 1Q07 59 is sure to become famous with y^oung folk, and from the number of its bird notes appeals largely to the ornithologist. Members of the A.O.U. will be mindful that the author was the first honorary secretary of the Union, and materially assisted in piloting it successfully through the first years of its existence. Now is the opportunity to return the compliment. Moreover, the book is a unique one, resembling no other ever written. Simplicity, whether of life, line, or composition, is always the most charming. Herein lies the charm of Mr. I.e Souef's writings — simplicity — plain, unvarnished descriptions of nature, whether animate or inaminate, as she appeared to him, and because he so loves Nature, she has apparently revealed to him many of her secrets which, when put into words, read more like stirring fiction than items of sober yet fascinating truth. The work is compiled in the form of field excursions — (i) " Gembrook, Victoria " ; (2) " The Western District, Victoria " ; (3) "Mallacoota Inlet"; (4) " Riverina District, N.S.W. " ; (5) " Furneaux Group of Islands, Bass Strait " ; (6) " Hunter Group and Albatross Island, Bass Strait " ; (7, 8} " Queensland " ; (9) " Western Australia." These chapters incidentally contain popular natural history notes of every description pertaining to Australian bush — rocks, trees, birds, beasts, fishes, &c. — and are liberally illustrated by the camera, at which Mr. Le Souef is an adept. Some of the pictures are exceedingly artistic, notably — "Gembrook Road," "Iguana Climbing Tree " (Mattingley), "Red- capped Dottrel's Nest," " Nest of Pied Oyster-catcher," " Echo Creek, Tasmania," &c. But, undoubtedly, the most remarkable bird pictures are those depicting rookeries respectively of Albatrosses, Gannets, and Sooty Terns (Cornwall), while the author is also fortunate in having three-colour reproductions of two of his cousin's (Mrs. Ellis Rowan) famous pictures- — namely, " Brown Tree Snake and Orchid " and " Green Ants' Nest and Queensland Berries." From a publisher's point of view the work is neatly got up, bound in imitation crocodile leather (cloth) boards. Had the paper been of a slightly better quality, or even similar to that used as " specimen pages " previously issued by the publishers, Messrs. Whitcombe and Tombs Limited, the excellent half-tone blocks would have appeared to greater advantage, also the letter- press. Nevertheless, the price at 7s. 6d. is surprisingly reason- able for such a work. Had space permitted some of Mr. Le Souef's nature incidents would have been quoted. The following, however, will prove, amongst other things, that he is a lover of snakes — a neglected field of much interest : — " On one occasion, when camping in ;i small bark luit, 1 was asked by my companion if I thought there were any snakes about, as during the night something had passed over his legs. I scouted the idea ; but 60 Reviezvs. [Jj^Xy after he had gone out for the day I searched under the floor and found the culprit in the shape of a tiger snake, which I quickly despatched. In the stable near the house mice were plentiful, and tiger snakes used often to live under the floor in luxury. On one occasion we killed one of these snakes, and, as it was in prime condition, determined to try what it was like cooked ; but the cook would not touch it, so I had to prepare and do it myself. I put various ingredients in to make it appetising, but for all that found it rather dry and bony, though the flesh was white. "We once made a tiger snake bite a mouse, which was dead in twenty-one seconds, and on several other occasions when we did the same thing found the time vary from twenty to forty seconds. On one occasion a young man thought he had discovered an antidote, so he brought me a kitten, which had had the hair shaved off the part he wished the snake to bite. Well, I caught a tiger snake, and holding it by the neck, made it bite the required spot, but while the owner was looking for the punctures to rub in his so-called antidote the poor kitten died." * * * " I was once bitten by one of these snakes which was about six months old, and the only effect was to give me a bad head- ache. I was carrying it in my pocket at the time, with my hand over it to prevent its escaping. And that reminds me that some years ago two venomous water snakes were sent to me from Queensland. They apparenth^ died one cold night, so, putting them in my pocket, I took them to town to preserve them in spirits, but when in a crowded omnibus I felt, as I thought, someone moving my pocket, so putting my hand in it, found my two snakes awake and squirming about, the heat having revived them ; but I managed to keep them in until the city was reached, but I often thought since what the result would have been if one had got out. " Snakes cannot travel fast on sand, as the loose material does not offer any resistance to the ribs or bellv scales. When at King Island with members of the Field Naturalists' Club of Victoria, I had collected one day about a dozen copper-head snakes, and had to transfer them from the collecting bag to a box, so emptied them all out on the sand, my friends looking on from a distance and offering me advice. I was then enabled to pick them up one by one, as they could not escape." * * * " A few days later we drove to some granite ranges, about twelve miles from the homestead (Coomooboolaroo, Queensland), and on arriving there some of us went along the range where the rocks were high to hunt the rock-wallabies, which live in the crevices of the rocks. We had some exciting attempts to capture them, as they ran up the sides of the rocks and leaning trees with extraordinary agility. They were adepts at climbing and jumping, as we frequently saw them perched on the lower branches of a slightly inclining tree. We managed to catch one, and, placing it in a bag, took it back to the camp. When one of our party was looking for flowers, she came across a carpet snake about lo feet long, coiled up under a clump of bushes. As we after- wards found out. an opossum had just furnished it with a heavy meal, which it was quietly digesting. The reptile was soon transferred to a bran bag, and, later on, arrived in Melbourne with the wallaby." Vol. VII. U)07 Corycsp(>)rleiice. 6i Correspondence. THE PROTECTION OF NATIVE GAME. To the Editors of " The Ein?(." Sirs, — ?ilay I call your attention to the following- letter, taken from a Tasmanian newspaper of the current month, deahng with one of the methods by which our native fauna is being pushed out of existence. : — To the Editor of the " Launcestoii ExaniincrP Sir, — From all sides we hear that the native game is fast disappearing, in spite of legislation designed to protect it ; and the question is, Can something not be done to put matters upon a better basis } Various reasons have been assigned for this scarcity of game. It has been laid to the charge of over-shooting, the close cutting of stubble, Hawks, domestic cats, and such like ; but I do not think that all these put together will equal the extinction of ()uail, Mag- pies, kangaroo, opossum, and even deer, by the use of poisoned grain. I understand that in some districts near Evandale, when the owner is using poisoned grain to get rid of rabbits, whole coveys of Brown Quail can be found dead, and Magpies by the dozen are to be picked up, having fallen, poisoned, from their perches. He also states that he came across five deer lying dead in one spot, while kangaroo and opossum are lying dead all over the run in question. What is the use of passing laws for the protection of game when a wholesale means of destruction is allowed to prevail, and which is far more destructive than any shooting or trapping can be? In fact, it is sheer waste of animal life, which Another method was connmented upon in a recent issue of the same journal, where it was recorded that a beautiful White Heron, a strictly protected bird ! had fallen to a gunner of Scamander, on the East Coast. This was done quite openly, the proud hunter publishing his execrable name without fear of consequences. Mr. II. C. Thompson tells me that he recently met a lad coming into town with a small gun on his shoulder on which were strung a pair of Podargus, some of our fine Yellow- throated Honey-eaters, and several Noisy Miners. Truly a mixed bag ! And the shooter stalked through the middle of the could be turned to profitable account in other ways. No inland town has been more injured than the little village of Evandale. The farms surrounding the spot years ago were the scene of busy agricultural industry, second to none in the .State ; but the farms became ab- sorbed, and were given over to sheep, the buildings went to decay, and with the departure of the families from the district the very village itself has partaken of the general decay. I remember remarking the state of affairs to one of the owners in question at one time, and, while admitting the fact was as stated, he said : — " The sheep pay best, and the sheep shall have the land." But, coming back to the question of game preserving and poisoned grain. Will not the sportsmen of the North take the matter in hand, and endeavour to do something .'' I am quite certain that trapping would do much more to reduce the rabbits, and that without any charge to the landlord, if men were permitted to operate and put an end to a practice that is at once wasteful, barbarous, and injurious to other interests in the State at large.— Yours, iS:c. , Native Game. 6th May, 1907. D2 Correspondence. ist iul • city with all these murdered " protected " birds in his possession. The imposition of a ten-shilling gun-tax annually would put an immediate stop to a vast deal of this useless slaughter, and the sooner it comes the better for our birds and our farmers also. The State Government is often at its wits' end to make up a revenue, yet here is a method by which a considerable sum could be raised annually without injuring anyone, for a gun is no more necessary here for protection than it is in England, where the ten -shilling tax has obtained so long, and which country is full of delightful wild songsters. With regard to the wholesale poisoning of native fauna, this is, if possible, a still more serious question, and one worthy of all consideration and discussion in the pages of The Emu. — Yours, &c., H. STUART DOVE. Launceston, Tasmania, 8th May, 1907. Bird Observers' Club. Thk ((Liarterly dinner was held in Melbourne on 26th February, 1907, when thirteen members were present. Before commencing the business of the evening Mr. Leach was congratulated by the chairman (Mr. D. Le Souef) on his taking the degree of Master of Science of the Melbourne University, and also on his appointment to an important position in the Education Department in connection with nature study. It was resolved, on the motion of Mr. A. J. Campbell, seconded by Mr. C. L. Barrett — "That the Premier be written to protesting against the Waranga Basin or any other reserve being opened by a Minister of the Crown for shooting purposes." The exhibits of the evening were plentiful and varied. Mr. G. Shepherd showed nests and eggs of Jardine Caterpillar-eater and Leaden-coloured Flycatcher. Mr. A. G. Campbell showed a fine series of skins of the birds of Mornington district found within a quarter of a mile of the coast ; total, 32 species, of which 1 1 are in Tasmania unaltered, 9 are in Tasmania represented by an insular form, 13 are in north-west Victoria, 21 are in north-east Victoria, 24 are in south-west Victoria, and all in Gippsland and around Melbourne. Mr. A. G. Campbell also exhilDited skins of adult and fledgling of Pc/at^adroiiin inaritia (White-faced vStorm-Petrel) ; and interesting accounts of their habits and their rookeries were given by Messrs. Catnpbell and Mattingley, who have recently visited Cygnet (Mud) Island. Mr. Mattingley showed a fine series of pictures of the Pilot-Bird {Pycnoptiius floccosus)^ showing nest and eggs, birds feeding young, and bird at nest. Mr. Mattingley is to be compli- mented for his patience and success in bird photography, as this is a branch of nature study that appeals to the student and collector alike. On 25th March, 1907, the ordinary monthly meeting of the Club was held at the residence of Dr. Charles Ryan, the host being voted to the chair. Fourteen memliers were present, and apologies were received from four others. Mr. Hill's resignation as a member was accepted, as he had left the State. On a ballot being taken, Mr. Isaac Batey, of Drouin, Vic, was unanimously elected a corresponding member of the Club. The subject for the evening's discussion was "Nocturnal Birds of Prey." Many fine specimens of Owls were exhibited by Messrs. Le Souef, A. G. Campbell, Mattingley, and Ryan. Mr. Le Souiif pointed out the difterence of plumage existing in various Podargi and other night birds, and holds the belief that ^"igV ] Bird Observers' Club. 63 P. slrii^oiiics and P. cnvieri are distinct species, but adds that more skins are needed, as the difterence can only be discovered by carefully sexin^^ the birds. The quarterly dinner was held on the evening of 22nd May. .-\t the meeting afterwards there was a large attendance of members and friends. The chairman (Mr. A. J. Campbell) bade a hearty welcome to Mr. Isaac Bate)', who had the honour of being the oldest bird observer present, and whose observations and field notes (to be published in Tlie Emu) went back 60 years, to the time when the illustrious John Gould was in Australia collecting material for his great coloured work, " The Birds of Australia.'' Mr. Mattingley then entertained the company with a lecturette on "The Murray Swamps," illustrated with some of his unique lantern views of bird life, depicting, among other things, White Egrets in their nests at a height of 50 feet from the ground, where the photographer could only reach them at some risk by the aid of rope ladders and climbing irons. South Australian Ornithological Association. Thk annual meeting of the above was held at the residence of Dr. A. M. Morgan on Friday evening, 8th March, 1907. Mr. J. W. Mellor presided over a good attendance. The hon. secretary (Capt. S. A. White) read the eighth annual report, which showed that good work had been accomplished during the year. Si.x general meetings had been held, at which the attendance was good. Exhibits were always plentiful, which, combined with field notes, formed valuable groundwork for discussions and dissemi- nation of useful knowledge relative to the habits and identification of native birds. The association had ever been watchful to bring under the notice of the authorities any breach of the law connected with birds, and it was thought that the work in this direction was beginning already to bear fruit. There seemed to be an awakening interest on the part of the public generally to protect the useful native birds, and it was trusted that by the study of the habits of our feathered friends the rising generation would become more interested, and eventually the spirit of destruction among the young would be stamped out. Two delegates (Mr. J. W. Mellor and Capt. S. A. White) attended the annual congress of the Australasian Orni- thologists' Union in Tasmania at the close of last year. At these meetings they advocated the introduction of the Lyre-Bird {Meuura victoria) into Tasmania and the mound-raising Pheasant or Mallee-Fowl {Lipoa occllata) into Kangaroo Island. Both places were ideal localities for these birds, as there they would be free from the ravages of the fox, which threatened to exterminate them on the mainland. The indebtedness of the association to Dr. Morgan for the use of his rooms for meetings and generous hospitality always shown to the members was placed on record, and a hearty vote of thanks was carried by acclamation. The sccietary reported upon the \isit to Tasmania and work done at the various meetings, excursions held in Hobart and Launceston, and gave extended notes of the birds found on Mount Wellington, showing several skins procured there, including the Black Cockatoo {Calypiorhyjulnis /i'Jierei(s), Small-billed Cuckoo-Shrike {Graiicalus fariurosiris), and the Bronze-Cuckoo {C/ialcococcyx plagosies). The chairman in his annual address dealt with the natural history aspects of Mount Barrow, which was visited by the ornithologists while in Tasmania. The ascent of Mount Barrow by the party was graphically described, and the peculiar i)lant life seen in these elevated parts— 4,644 feet above the sea, or 500 feet higher than Mount Wellington — was described. Mr. K. Crompton showed a peculiar albino Crow from Lake Frome (S.A.) Mr. Y. R. Zietz reported having a pair of the Yellow-rumped Finches {Muniajlmiprymna) in captivity. Mr. A. H. C. Zietz, F.L.S., recorded the 64 Soii/li Aiis/Kiliaii Ornithological Association. [,sl''"juiy near completion of the restoration of the skeleton of the long-extinct mammoth bird of Central Australia {Gcnvor/iis nc^vtonii), the remains of which had been discovered at Lake Calabonna. This giant bird was con- siderably larger than the Cassowary. No known bird had such a large pelvis, the one in cjucstion being over 2 feet long. The sternum bone was also proportionately large. Dr. A. M. Morgan was elected president, Mr. A. H. C. Zietz, F.L.S., vice-president, and Mr. J. W. Mellor hon. secretary and treasurer, these to form the general committee of management. Publications Received. Auk, The, XXII. , Part 4, Oct., 1906 ; Part 5, Jan., 1907. Academy of Natural Sciences, 1906. Aiislralian Naturalist, The, I., Part 4, Oct., 1906. Avicultural Maga.zinc, The, Oct., Nov., Dec, 1906; Jan., Feb., March, 1907. Bird-Lore, VIII., Nos. 4-6; IX., No. i. Haivkesbury Agricultural College Journal, The, IV., Parts i, 2, 3. 4- Geelot/g Naturalist, The, Jan., 1907. Ibis, 77/^, July-Oct., 1906; Jan., 1907. Royal Society of Victoria, Proceedings, XIX., Parts i and 2. Records of Canterbury Museum (Christchurch, N.Z.), I., Part i. Linnean Society N.S.W., Proceedings of, No. 120, April, 1906; No. 122, Oct., 1906; No. 124, March, 1907. South African Ornithologists' Union, The Journal of the, Dec, 1906. Victorian Naturalist, The, Oct., Nov., Dec, 1906; Jan., P'eb., Mar., April, 1907. Zoologist, The, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., Dec, 1906 ; Jan., Feb., Mar, 1907. Beebe, C W., The Swans ; Spring- Moult of Lams atricilla. Whitman, C. O., The Problem of CJrigin of Species. Palmer, T. S., P'ederal Game Protection, U.S.A. National Association of Audubon Societies. Leaflet No. 24 : The Bluebird. Leaflet No. 21 : The Scarlet Tanager. Leaflet No. 6 : The Bartramian Sandpiper. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Bulletin No. 19. Hunting Licences. Treasurer's Note.— Consequent upon the voluntary resignation of Mr. E. Brooke Nicholls, the Council of the A. O.U. has appointed as hon. treas- urer Mr. J. A. Ross, Crown Solicitor's Office, Lonsdale-street, Melbourne. Mr. Ross retiuests that members, when making payments, will kindly forward cheques drawn to order or postal mone>- orders, payable to tlic Australasian Ornit/ifllogists' Unio)i, and not to an official or individual ; to add exchange to cheques, if subject thereto ; and to cross all cheques and postal orders. The Emu, Vol. VII. PLATE V. Jhe £mu Official ©rgan of the Australasian dDrnithobgists' Enion. Bir/. IV/. PLATE VI. Nest of I'lumcd i:j,.rcl ( Mesophoyx pitunifera). Locality of Heronry- A River Murray liickwater. FROM PHOTOS. BY A. H. E. MATTINGLEY. ^°j-^"-] Mattixglky, J Visit to Heronries. 67 entangling aquatic growths. During these outings we came in contact with the sombre White-fronted Heron {Notophoyx iioviB-Jiollandiie), commonly known as the Blue Crane. Paddling down Warwick Creek on one occasion one of these Herons was observed sitting on her nest at the end of a limb some 70 feet high. Wishing to investigate the nest, we, after an hour's labour, during which we nearly capsized our frail craft, managed to pass our rope ladder up to the extreme end of the bough. So frail looked the support, so far distant from the main trunk, from which it projected at right angles, that our swampsman in charge of the boat looked askance at so perilous a climb, but up one of us went. The muscles of the climber, wearied with the constant poling of the boat, inwardly groaned at this unwonted exercise, but these groans were not heeded. Finally the nest was reached, and five beautiful blue-tinted eggs rewarded the eyes (see Emu, vol. vii., plate iv.) Unlike other Australian Herons, which nest together in rookeries, or rather heronries, the White- fronted is a solitary and unsociable bird, preferring to nest by itself, for which purpose it chooses a tree overhanging one of the many creeks. Occasionally, however, we found two nests in one tree, and in one instance we observed in the same tree a nest of large young ones, and below it on another limb another nest containing five typical eggs, whilst overhead in the topmost branches a Goshawk (Aster) had built its nest. When dis- turbed the young Blue Herons lie flat down in the nest, and by stretching their long necks and tails beyond the edges of of the nest, meanwhile remaining perfectly rigid, attempt to simulate the appearance of the surrounding wood and sticks, which they do to perfection. The long, thin neck and the white patches on the face, intermingling with the greyish-blue, appear, when viewed from below, to be one of the limed sticks of their nests. There is no doubt but that the sombre greyish- blue colour of the White-fronted Heron is a protection against the attacks of its enemies, and for this reason it is unnecessary for it to protect itself and offspring by joining in with the members of its own species and resorting in common with them to a heronry to breed. Their nest is like a shallow plate about I foot or I foot 5 inches in diameter, and as a rule is composed of fine sticks. In it are cradled from four to five beautiful blue eggs. When freshly laid the eggs and nest are clean, but it is not long ere the nest and its surroundings become freely bespattered with excreta, which tinges them with white. The young birds are comical, ungainly balls of slaty-blue down, and appear to possess heads much too large for their bodies. The height of the nest from the ground varies from about 20 feet to 90 feet. On the 9th of November, 1906, we judged the time to be ripe for the main object of our visit, which was to journey to the 68 Mattinglev, a Visit to Heronries. [isi^^'oct. great heronries. So, packing our boat with provisions, rope ladders, cHmbing irons, and other impedimenta, until there was scarcely room to get in it, we started at daylight, and, paddling up the Murra)', reached the mouth of the Kdwards, an ana-branch of the last-named stream. Strange to say, the Murray runs into all the streams hereabouts, instead of the streams running into it as tributaries. Paddling down stream, aided by a strong current, we make excellent headway until we find our path blocked in several places by snags and driftwood, which we manage to clear away with an axe sufficiently for the boat to pass. Onward we glide for miles, at first through swamps containing oological wealth, and then through parts where the river became narrower and compressed between higher banks. Further on the river banks became submerged. Soon a dank, swampy odour pervaded our nostrils, the timber here growing denser and much higher. Huge gum trees, interspersed with tall saplings, which reared their umbrageous heads 70 to 120 feet high, grew in profusion. The hoarse croaking calls of Herons could be heard ahead. Several White Egrets, together with Nankeen Night- Herons, were seen fishing close by, and arose and flew away with the clumsy, wheeling flight peculiar to the Cranes or Herons. The waters, o'ershadowed by the picturesque gums, appeared blacker, the air became danker, the river more wild and primeval, flanked as it was on either side by a virgin forest. As we swept onwards, impelled by the swiftly flowing current, that seemed to be drawing us to a vortex ahead, we suddenly noticed half a dozen large stick nests underwoven with fresh gum leaves, situate in the tops of the trees, all of which were occupied by Nankeen Night-Herons. Onward we glided, nests now on every side and high up in safe positions, all tenanted by Night-Herons. Nests were visible in almost every gum-tree. Paddling onwards for about i ^ miles, we at last leave the nests behind and reach our camping spot on a dry knob of ground surrounded by water and in the vicinity of a place called Reedy Nook, adjacent to a locality known as St. Helena — a wild, isolated, unfrequented area like the island after which it was named. On the camping ground there was the frame-work of a deserted aborigine's mia-mia, alongside of which we pitched our tent and prepared a late but welcome lunch. After its demolition we made our way back to the heronry. Striking off through the swamp at its lower end, we noticed several nests of the White-necked Herons {NotopJwyx pacifica) placed on the top of a huge gum-tree about 200 feet high and quite safe from molestation from below. Now we arrive at a Nankeen Night- Heron's nest, and as we approach the tree the brooding bird suddenly flushes and alights on a tree near, meanwhile uttering hoarse croaks of disgust at being unceremoniously disturbed. The antithesis of beauty and The Emu, JW. 17/: PLATE VII. Young Egrets ( McsopJioyx pluinifera and Herodias tiinorkiisuj. FROM PHOTOS. BY A. H. E MATTINOUEY. ^°iQo^^ 1 Mattingley, a Visit to Heronries. 5q goodness is usually found associated in nature. Notice the discordant croaks and want of range in the musical repertoire of all our graceful, long-necked birds, and those which possess long tracheas or windpipes, whilst those with short necks and full throats usually have sweet and melodious and a greater range of calls. Fixing the climbing irons to his legs, my companion scrambles up to the nest. Whilst he is so occupied our boatman advisedly backs the boat away from the tree trunk, so that the climber can fall into the water should the climbing irons suddenly slip — a contingency that often happens — and theclimber be precipitated to the bottom. After considerable exertion the nest is reached, and a joyous exclamation by him proclaims that he has obtained his first sight of a Night-Heron's eggs. How eminently adapted is the general colour of the Nankeen Night-Heron, with its dull brown, chestnut-tinged plumage, o'ercapped with black, for nesting amongst rocks ; their young ones' mottled plumage, too, being even more pronouncedly rock-coloured than their parents'. In some parts of Australia the Night-Herons build their nests on rocks. The reason that these birds took to nesting in the rookeries at the Murray is no doubt due to the large quantities of food procur- able in these places, and to some causes that militate against their occupying what seems to me to be their natural habitat amongst the rocks. Further on we observe several White Egrets {Herodias tiinoriensis), and on closer inspection we discover several smaller Plumed Egrets {McsopJioyx plumifera) sitting on their bulky stick nests, which are somewhat less in size than the Night- Heron's, and not so frequently underwoven with gum leaves, although the Night-Herons also build nests similar to the Plumed Egrets when viewed from below, only a little larger. The Plumed Egret's nest measures about 13 to 14 inches in diameter, anci is almost imperceptibly shallower than the Night- Heron's. Longing glances were cast at the nests, but as the lowest limb was much too high for our 70-foot rope ladder we searched for more favourably situated ones built on a tree that lent itself to our climbing tackle. Paddling through the timber we were able to ascertain the extent of the heronry of White Egrets, and computed their numbers to be about 150 individuals — the remnant of a once larger colony, which, we were informed, must have totalled originally about 700 birds, but which, owing to the demand for their back plumes for the adornment of ladies' hats, had been decimated by plume- hunters and reduced to the present number of about 150 birds. The only method by which the hunters are able to obtain Egrets' plumes in quantities is to shoot the birds on their nests, since- at this period they arc more readily approached, and allow a person to get within gunshot. Owing to the shyness of 70 Mattingley, a Visit to Heronries. fisf'oct the Egrets when they are free from the cares of rearing a family very few plumes are obtained. A shot by us into space, albeit, sends the birds in dozens from their nests, and as they fly away, usually to the nearest dry tree, their snow-white plumage is pleasingly silhouetted against the green foliage of the surrounding gum-trees. How pure, how graceful they look in the sunshine as they alight on the dead tree-top and contemplate the intruders in the boat beneath them. At last we find a nest in a tree adaptable to the rope ladder, and after many efforts we fix the ladder in position, and the climber excitedly clambers up, holding on like " grim Death " to the rope as it sways hither and thither, or varies the performance by turning as if on a pivot on account of it being impossible to fix it in the swamp water beneath. It is no easy task climbing 70 feet of swinging ladder ; but the climber hardly notices this fact — his attention is on the nest above and the coveted prize of a sight of a rare clutch of eggs, the first of their kind ever taken, or at all events recorded, in Australia. Puffing, panting, and perspiring at every pore, he now reaches the limb at the top of the ladder, but still he has to go higher. After half a minute spell he scrambles up and up the now smaller main stem until after desperate efforts he reaches the limb on which the nest is situated. Trembling in every muscle with such unwonted exertion, as well as with the enervating effects of excitement, he works his way laboriously along the horizontal bough until he reaches the smaller twigs in which the nest is placed. Ha ! what a picture is before his eyes ! " Eureka ! " Four delicately shaded blue-tinted eggs. Immediately a strong line is sent down for the camera, which is forthwith attached, and then hauled up, and with trembling fingers and much balancing in mid-air the camera is fixed to the bough, and after lengthy manoeuvring and adjusting the nest is focussed and a picture taken, after which operation the camera is again lowered to the boat, and the weary climber descends and sits exhausted in it. It is now time to return to camp, and we make a detour to ascertain the extent of the Nankeen Night- Heron's rookery, which surrounds the colony of the " White Cranes." As it was too lengthy a task to correctly compute the exact number of Night-Herons in this heronry, we approximate!}- estimate the number domiciled there to be several thousands, which was afterwards verified by me on my second trip. Tired and hungry, we at last reach camp, well satisfied with the day's work, and with a determination to thoroughly explore the homes and to study the habits of the Herons. Up betimes next day, we sally forth, and after careful search discover several trees that a strong climber could negotiate, and in which are seen the nests of the Night-Herons. Up two of us went, and b}^ aid of climbing irons and rope ladder several ^°'-^^^-l Mattingley, ^ Visit to Heronries. 71 1907 J ' / nests were reached ; some contained only one egg, others two, and a few three and four delicately tinged greenish-blue eggs, somewhat larger than the little Plumed Egret's eggs. In the centre of this heronry a pair of Black-cheeked Falcons {Falco Diclanogenys) had their nest, and no doubt some broods of ducklings paid them toll until such times as the young Herons were hatched, when, no doubt, the Falcons preyed upon them, and perhaps their parents too ! As yet no young Herons of the several species in the rookery were hatched, but that " black demon " and thief, the Raven {Corone ajistralis) was in evidence, as with maniacal " Caw-caw-car-r-r " he hovered about the heronry and robbed the birds of their eggs systematically when the Herons left them unguarded, judging by the broken egg- shells seen floating on the water beneath the trees. The day being now half over, we repair to the White Egrets' rookery and climb several trees with nests, some of which contained either three or four eggs, which appeared to be the full clutch of both the Plumed Egret {MesopJioyx pluinifera) and the large White Egret {Herodias tiiiwriensis), which birds we found nesting close together. A few Little Cormorants {PJialacrocorax vielanoleucus) also were seen on their nests in a tall tree in the heronry, and harmonious relations apparently existed between them and the Plumed Egrets, which also occupied the same tree. Photos, having been taken in the limited time at my disposal — all too short to do justice to the subject — we return to camp. Plundered for their Plumes. By a. H. p:. Mattingley, Melbourne. In a previous paper * I gave an account of a visit to heronries, protographing nests, &c. Notwithstanding the extreme heat, and being companionless except for myriads of mosquitoes, I determined to revisit the locality again during my Christmas holidays, in order to obtain one picture only— namely, that of a " White Crane " or Egret feeding its young. I had some difficulty locally in getting a man to assist me with the boat, which had to be paddled about 12 miles to reach the heronry. When near the place we could see some large patches of white, cither floating in the water or reclining on the fallen trees in the vicinity of the Egrets' rookery. This set me speculating as to the cause of this unusual sight. As we drew nearer, what a spectacle met our gaze — a sight that made my blood fairly boil with indignation. There, strewn on the floating water-weed, and also on adjacent logs, were at least 50 carcasses of large White and smaller Plumed Egrets — nearly one-third of the rookery, perhaps more — the birds having been shot off their nests * Page 65 of this issue. — Ed. ^2 Mattingl?:y, Phmdeved for their Plumes. I ^ Emu I Oct. containing young. What a holocaust ! Plundered for their plumes. What a monument of human callousness ! There were 50 birds ruthlessly destroyed, besides their young (about 200) left to die of starvation ! This last fact was betokened by at least 70 carcasses of the nestlings, which had become so weak that their legs had refused to support them, and they had fallen from the nests into the water below and had been miserably drowned ; whilst in the trees above, the remainder of the parentless young ones could be seen staggering in the nests, some of them falling with a splash into the water as their waning strength left them too exhausted to hold on any longer, whilst others simply stretched themselves out on the nest and so expired. Others, again, were seen trying in vain to attract the attention of passing Egrets which were flying with food in their bills to feed their own young, and it was a pitiful sight indeed to see these starvelings with outstretched necks and gaping bills imploring the passing birds to feed them. What a sickening sight ! how my heart ached for them. How could anyone but a cold- blooded, callous monster destroy in this wholesale manner such beautiful birds, the embodiment of all that is pure, graceful, and good. In one tree at the heronry the nests of the Plumed Egret {MesopJwyx phimifera). Egret {Herodias tinioriensis), and Little Cormorant were seen. In another large tree a photo, was taken of two young Plurned Egrets and one young large Egret together in the same nest. These three birds were the sole survivors of several broods of both species which had nested together in the same tree. They had evidently sought one another's company because all the balance of the nestlings had expired through lack of nourishment, their parents having been shot by the plume- hunters, or, rather, " plume-plunderers." Not satisfied with pictures of these nestlings, whose skin was a peculiar leafy-green colour, I determined to try to get a further series, and having found another tree containing several Little Cormorants' nests, intermingled with those of the PIui^cr Egret, I donned the climbing irons, to save the time necessary to adjust the rope ladder, and commenced climbing up the bulky trunk of the red gum tree, which became as I ascended more and more unsuitable for climbing with the irons. After scrambling about 25 feet up the trunk, my arms being at full stretch across the tree-barrel, I suddenly felt an acute pain in the back of my hand, which became almost paralysed. It appears that I had knocked off the tree-trunk the nest of a hornet, which forthwith retaliated on mc. The sudden shock of the sting almost caused me to let go my flimsy hold. However, during the next step upwards my climbing irons slipping, and my right hand, paralysed by the hornet's sting, refusing to grip some bark, which was the only hand-hold available, I fell down " swash " into the water below Thf. Emu, I'oi. VII. PLATE VI Starveling Egrets (I'arc-nts Shot for tlicir I'lunies). Voung (pliimifera) Calling to Passing Herons for Food, Waiting for ihc I'ju Young ( tiiito! icnsis) All Fiut Dead. FROM PHOTOS. BY A. H. E. MATTINQLEV. The E.mu. Vol. VI I. PLATE IX. Kegon Waterfall, Japan. Wliite Cro.s.s Showing Sitt of Spine-tailed Swifts' (Cliatura laiia'aciita) Nests. From a photo, by d. le souef, Melbourne, Vol yi-1 Mattinglev, Plundered for their Plumes. 73 I was unhurt by the fall, thanks to the water, but I received a few scratches from the tree, principally about the wrists. My clothes were damped, but not my ardour, and I managed to send up the rope ladder, and re-ascended the tree, where I secured another snap-shot of the poor starvelings from a precarious coien of vantage. Nesting Place of Australian Swifts. By D. Le Sou'ef, C.M.Z.S., &c., Melbourne. When visiting Japan lately (25/7/07) in company with our member, Mr. R. A. D. Hood, I was enabled to visit the Kegon Waterfall, near Nikko. It is a beautiful cascade of about 270 feet in height and a considerable amount of water also comes out from the apparently conglomerate rock lying under the harder slate-like formation. We were told that in winter it almost ceased running. It drains the Chuzenji Lake, which is about half a mile away, and 4,375 feet above sea- level. We were pleased to see many Spine-tailed {ChcEtura caudacuta) and White-rumped Swifts {Micropus pacificus) circling round in the precipitous gorge beneath us, both close to the falling water and further down. Later, towards evening, they hunted for their winged prey well above the gorge. We noticed single birds every now and again darting down towards the overhanging wall of rock to a place under a jagged ledge (marked with a white cross in the photo.), and, bringing our strong field-glasses to bear on the spot, were delighted in being able to clearly distinguish three nests of the Spine-tailed Swifts. The White-rumped Swifts seemed to dart into holes or crevices, where they evidently had their nests, but we could not distinguish them. Of the three nests of the larger bird, two contained young, which we saw the parents feeding, and when so doing they clung on to the side of the nest for a brief moment ; while the third had a bird sitting. The nests were large, and made of mud, evidently of two or three colours, and were built on a sloping wall of rock well under cover, thus — As far as we could judge from the distance we were (about 150 yards) a nest is about a foot in depth externally by about 4 inches across /y^c^ on the top ; the cup or ^^^ cavity was evidently shallow, as the sitting bird was well exposed. We asked the natives living near if they had ever seen the birds roosting at night ; they said " No," and had never seen them resting except when cling- ing to the sides of the cliff where their nests were built. We were informed that when the young had all left their nests, and just before the annual migration commences to Australia, about the latter part of September and early in October, 11 A Le Souef, Nesting Place of Australian Swifts. [ist Oct. the Japanese living at Nikko catch one of the birds, then choose an open spot where two or three trees are growing not far apart, and spread h"ght nets from tree to tree, and then, fastening a long cord to the foot of the captive bird, allow it to fly about on the inner side of the nets. Other Swifts, both the Spine-tailed and White-rumped, are attracted by the captive, and, darting down towards it, often strike the nets, then fall to the ground. As their wings are so long, they cannot fly off the ground, and are left for the time being where they fall, to be gathered when the catching is over for the day. From sixty to one hundred are often caught in this way in one day. The larger species are used for eating, and are much appreciated by the Japanese, while the primary feathers of the wings are used for various purposes. The White-rumped Swift is too small for eating. When we passed Hongkong, about ist July, we saw both Swifts there. It is probable that they have many nesting places both in Japan and in China, but their choosing such steep, overhanging cliffs makes them difficult to approach. I have heard of three different such places in Japan. Field Notes on Birds from Talbragar River, New- South Wales. By Thos. B, Austin, Cobbora. Part II. Pied Crow-Shrike (Strepera graculina). — Although this is a well- known bird all through the district, and at times very plentiful, it is a very rare thing to see them breeding here ; only once have I observed them nesting. There were three young in the nest only a few days old. The nest was built in a large ironbark tree about two miles from the river. A few weeks later I took the young birds for pets, and, although they became very docile, they never learned to talk. It was simply marvellous the way they could catch anything (even stones) thrown within reach of them. These pets had a very imfortunate ending. When they were about twelve months old I noticed first thing every morning that they went for a long fly, some miles away from the house. It soon became very evident that they were trying to induce their wild relations to return with them. This they eventually succeeded in doing ; but the wild birds made themselves too much at home in my fruit garden — the second morning after their arrival there was not a fig left on the trees. The wild birds became so tame I could not tell them from the pets, and they became so destructive I had to shoot the lot — an act which I did very reluctantly. Blue Kingfisher {Alcyone azurea). — Although I have seen this bird on the Castlereagh River, 30 miles to the north of here, also along the Coodgebaong River, 30 miles to the south, I have no record of it being seen on the Talbragar River. Sacred Kingfisher {Halcyon sanctus). — These birds arrive in great numbers during the spring, when their loud, screeching cries may ^°g<-V^ J -Austin, xVo/^s on Bj:>(^5 /;'om Talbragar River, N.S.W. yK be heard almost anywhere within a mile of the river. They breed here, both in hollow, trees and in the banks of the river. Browx Kingfisher {Dacelo gigas). — This fine and most useful bird, I am glad to say, remains with us in large numbers all through the year. I have heard it reported that they take the young of other birds from their nests. Of this I can say nothing from experience, but I have no doubt there is some truth in it. My reason for believing it is on account of the appreciation my pets have for Sparrows ; I am quite sure there is no food they enjoy more. Pallid Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus). — A very rare visitor. F.\N-TAiLED Cuckoo (Cacomantis fahelliformis). — May be seen occasionally, but never in great numbers. Musk Lorikeet (Glossopsittacus concinnus) and Little Lorikeet (G. pusilhis). — I think it best to mention these two together, because they always arrive here about the same time, and may be found feeding together. They arrive here after the nesting season in tremendous flocks, and their screeching notes are not altogether pleasant music as they fly from the tree-tops in thousands. White Cockatoo (Cacaiua galerita). — The only Cockatoo that I have ever seen in this locality, and they are not plentiful ; small flocks of them visit us about June. I have not known more than two pairs to breed here in the same year. Cock.\too-Parrakeet {Calopsittacus novcv-hollandice). — Arrive in large flocks during the spring, but it is a very rare occurrence to see any during the winter. They breed here in great numbers ; I have seen two nests in the same tree. Rosella (Platycercus eximius). — With us Ihroughout the year in great numbers ; one of the most common birds of the district, also a great breeder. Red-backed Parrakeet (Psephofus htsmatonoius). — Like the Rosella (Platycercus eximius), a very common bird throughout the year, and after the breeding season they congregate in large flocks. Warbling Grass-Parrakeet {Melopsiitacus undulatiis). — Only a spring visitor, some years in large flocks, but sometimes only a few are seen, other years none. I have observed a few breeding here. Ground-Dove (Geopelia tranquilla). — A few of these beautiful little creatures are always to be found on the banks of the river. I think they must breed here in fairly large numbers, but I have only one record of seeing a nest, and I should probably never have found that one only for the old bird coming several times to the spot where the nest was. I was sitting only a few feet beneath the nest, fishing. Bronze-winged Pigeon (Phaps chalcoptera). — The only Pigeon I have seen in this locality, and they only come on to the river flats during the summer, where there are plenty of thistle seeds for them to feed on. During the winter months they remain in the scrubs a few miles back from the river. I consider there is no bird being killed in greater numbers by the poisoned water put out for rabbits than this fine Pigeon. Why they are being destroyed in such large numbers compared to other birds is on account of the way in which they come to drink. Firstly, they always come to drink just before sunset ; that is naturally the time most of the poisoned water has just been put out. Secondly, instead of flying right down to the edge of the main water, like most birds, they always settle on the ground about a 76 Austin, Notes on Birds from Talhragar River, N .S.W . L ^^ Emu Oct. hundred yards away, and walk down to drink, consequently they are blocked by the netting, which they follow round until they come to the poisoned water-holes, in the same way the rabbits do. Mallee-Fowl (^Lipoa ocellata). — A few years ago, I am informed, this bird was fairly plentitul in this district ; now they are practically unknown. Stubble-Quail (Coturnix pectoralis). — I have seen them here in great numbers in the early part of the summer, but most of them depart about January. Occasionally a great many breed in the crops, but during the summer of 1 900-1 they were breeding all over the river flats. Brown Quail {Synoecus australis). — -This (1907) is the first year I have seen them near the river, although about five years ago they were rather numerous in the scrubs and ironbark ridges. I have never known them to breed here. Plain-Wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus). — An uncommon bird in these parts, and I have no record of them breeding here. Pectoral Rail (Hypotcenidia philippinensis). — A few arrive nearly every spring, but they are rather a rare bird, and I only have one record of a nest. This was built by a dam within one hundred yards of my house ; the young when only a few days old were most extra- ordinary-looking little creatures, more like mice (with only two legs) than birds, and they were great runners. Bald-Coot {Porphyria melanonotus). — -A very rare bird in these parts. Last year I noticed a voung bird unable to fly, so one pair of birds must have bred here, although I did not see them. Native Companion {Antigone australasiana). — Fairly large flocks of them occasionally come here during May and June, and are generally to be seen on the cultivation paddocks just after the wheat has been sown. Naturally they are not very welcome visitors to the farmers, and no wonder, because it must take a great many grains of wheat to satisfy the appetite of so large a bird, consequently the amount of wheat a flock of fifty of these birds would eat in one week would be sufficient to sow a very fair area of ground. I have also known them to be a great source of anxiety to squatters in times of drought, by practically destroying the water in dams, through flocking into the shallow water in hundreds, and making the water in such a filthv state that stock would not drink it. But with all their destructive habits, I must give them a word of praise. In good seasons they are a very useful bird to the country, destroying millions of small insects, which are a much greater pest to the land-holders than any bird. Wild Turkey {Eupodotis australis). — It is very sad to reflect that this — one of our finest game birds, as well as one of the most useful — is surely being wiped out. I feel sure it is only a matter of a few years and it will be extinct. I have often wondered why nature did not provide this noble bird with better breeding facilities, also better means of protection against its enemies — it falls such an easy prey to Hawks, tvc, in the day, and the dingoes at night. Even with its unfortunate breeding habits I think it could have held its own against the enemies just mentioned, but then the fox came to help towards its destruction, and now the worst of all, the rabbit, or rather the means which we have had to adopt to destroy the rabbit — the deadly poison carts. I know of stations where the unfortunate Turkeys have been Vol. VII 1907 j Austin, Notes on Birds from Talbragar River, A'.S.tF. yy poisoned in hundreds — stations where not many years ago these fine birds remained througliout the year in very large flocks, and now the owners of these properties tell me they ha\e not seen a Turkey lor five years. Stone-Plover {Burliinus grallarius).— Another very useful bird, being a great destroyer of nocturnal insects, and for this reason I know of no better bird for a garden pet. They breed here, and are rather numerous. Spur-winged Plover {Lobivunellns lobalus). — Where is the Aus- tralian who has never heard the peculiar notes of this fine Plover ? Like the Stone-Plover, another night insect destroyer. They are very plentiful here throughout the year, and breed in large numbers. Black-breasted Plover {Zonifer tricolor). — Arriving here about the end of May, they breed in large numbers, and then depart about March. It seems strange whv these birds should only migrate for two months in the year. Black-fronted Dottrel {Mgialitis nielanops). — This elegant little bird may be found by the river throughout the year. I have several records of them breeding here. White-headed Stilt {Hiniantopus leucocephalus). — In a wet season I have known flocks of them to come, but they never remain long. Snipe (Gallinago australis). — In a suitable season a great many come here, but of late j'ears I have only seen odd birds. Painted Snipe (Rosiratitla australis). — I have only three records of this bird appearing in our district. Marsh-Tern (Hydrochelidon hybrida). — In a wet season, when there is plenty of water about, these graceful little birds may be seen flying over the swamps and lagoons, but I have never known them to breed here. White Ibis (Jbis molucca). — This must be put down as a rather rare bird in this district. I have seen small flocks of them, but have never known them to remain long. Str.-wv-necked Ibis (Carphibis spinicollis). — Now I have come to the bird which I consider deserves all the protection that the law can give it. Of all the many fine birds wMch Austraha possesses, I must place this noble and most useful feathered creature before all others. Frequently have I seen many thousands of acres of grass and crops threatened with certain destruction by plagues of countless millions of locusts, grasshoppers, caterpillars, &c., when suddenly, to the delight of the landowners, large flocks of Carphibis spinicollis arrive to their assistance. What wonderful instinct is it which tells these birds where the insect plagues are ! Though the Ibis failed us this past summer when the grasshoppers were so bad, I felt sure it was only on account of them being fully occupied elsewhere. Upon more than one occasion when the locusts have been numerous I have known of squatters trying to drive the flocks of Ibis on to their own property. C)ne can easilj- imagine the benefit derived from a flock of a thousand Ibis for a few days where any insect plague is doing such great destruction. Many an evening have I watched large flocks of Ibis flying from the plains (where they have been feeding all day) and flocking into a few large trees for their night's rest ; it is a sight well worth seeing, also one which few people can resist gazing upon. Much more would I like to write about the Carphibis spinicollis , but will finish my few 78 Avsrm, Notes 017 Birds from T albv agar River ,N .S.W . [„t^7^|.t. remarks by stating that I hope at no distant date the law will protect this fine, useful bird throughout the year, because I feel that is what it richly deserves. Glossy Ibis {Plegadis jalcinellus). — I must put this species as a very rare bird in this district, although they do appear in a wet season, but only for a short visit. During the last seven years I have only once seen them — a flock of five^but they only i-emained about a fortnight. Yellow-legged Spoonbill {Platibis flavipes). — Not altogether a rare bird here, but I have never known more than half a dozen birds to visit us at the same time, and I have no record of them breeding anywhere in tliis district. Egret (Herodias timoriensis). — Occasionally a single bird appears, but never do they remain long. White-fronted Heron {Notophoyx novcc-hollandice). — By far the most common bird of its kind, and, in much the same manner as the Straw-necked Ibis, a very useful bird, but as they never arrive in large flocks they cannot be of benefit to the country when a bird of this description is so much required. They breed here every year in the red gum trees by the river. White-necked Heron {NotopJioyx pacifica). — A very raix visitor. I have seen odd birds here, but I fancy they have only stayed for a few days' rest when travelling. Night-Heron {Nycticorax caledonicus). — By no means a common bird, but there are always a few about during the warmer months of the year. Their most peculiar notes may often be heard at night. Although I have no record of them nesting here, I believe one pair of birds must have bred here last year, because I saw a young bird, wliich did not appear to have long left its nest. Black Cormorant {Phalacrocovax carbo). — Occasionally these birds visit this district, but never in flocks ; single birds are at times seen, either in the water or perched upon dead trees by the river. The same remarks apply to the follou-ing : — P. sulcirostris, P. melaiioleucus, and Plotus novce-hollaiidice. Pelican {Pelecaniis conspicillatiis). — Like a great many other birds, pays us a short visit at any time of the year. I have known odd birds to remain for a few weeks and become very tame. HoARY-HEADED Grebe {Podicipes poUocephalus). — In a good season, when the lagoons have plenty of water in them, these strange little birds arrive in great numbers, and a few remain here to breed. Black Swan (Chenopis airata). — I am sorry to say this fine ornamental bird is rather rare in this locality. Small flocks are occasionally seen. I have never known them to breed here, although one of my boundary-riders once informed me he saw a nest floating down the river in a flood, with the old bird still sitting upon it. Pied Goose (Anseranas semipalmata). — I have never seen this bird here myself, but know five did rest here some years ago — unfortunately for them, because two were shot. WooD-DucK {Chenonetta jttbatd). — Always a few are to be seen by the river, and at times they come here in large flocks, but most of them depart just before the nesting season, although a few pairs breed here every year. Vol. VII. 1907 1 Austin, Noles 0)i Birds from Talbragay River, N.S. IV. JQ Black Duck (Anas superciliosa). — This, one of the finest game birds we have in Australia, is the most common of all the Ducks in this locality ; when no Black Duck is to be found here it is almost certain there is no other species of Duck witliin a great many miles. A fair number of them breed here every year ; their favourite nesting-places are the hollow red gum trees growing by the river. Teal {Nettion gibbet if rons), Shoveller {Spatula rhynchoHs), Pink- eared Duck {M alacorhynchus membranaceus) , and Hardhead (Nyroca aiistralis). — These four species of Ducks are only to be seen here in a wet season, when they arrive in very large flocks. I have no record of any of them breeding here, but no doubt some oi them do when the season is favourable. Musk-Duck {Biziura lobata). — Only a single bird of this species have I seen throughout this district. This bird was in a very small dam. After watching it diving for a few minutes, I saw it sneak out of the water and go under a tuft of grass, where I caught it. I took it home and put it on a large dam near my house, but it did not remain there more than a few weeks ; it was last seen upon a lagoon about a quarter of a mile away. Emu {Dromceus novcB-hollandicB). — A bird which was very plentiful only a few years ago, but I have not seen one within fifteen miles of the river since the 1902 drought. That disastrous year killed the Emus in very great numbers throughout the State. During 1900 one pair of birds became so tame that they came right uj) to the house and took all the quinces off two trees. The following year I saw an old bird with seven young. This fine species was looked upon as a nuisance not so very long ago, and on a great many stations men were employed to destroy them. Now I think the squatters who were once so anxious to eradicate them would be glad to see a few Emus about their propert}-. I am glad to hear from squatters further west that Emus are on the increase again. The Food of the Birds. Bv Fred. L. Bernev, Richmond, N.O. As this is an important subject, I have recently been saving, from time to time, the stomachs of such birds as came into my hands ; and, feeling that I was not personally in a position to do them justice, I forwarded a small collection to Mr. A. S. Le Souef, Zoological Gardens, Sydney, who kindly undertook to examine them. In many cases the contents were in too comminuted a state for more than a general decision, such as " beetles and small flies," but where the condition was such as to give hope of actual identification of the insect or what not that the bird had been feeding on. Mr. Le Souef sought the assistance of the authorities of the Australian Museum, who were good enough to go carefully into the matter, with the result that I think the subjoined list is of sufficient importance and interest to publish in The Emu. The stomach of the Night-Heron (No. 120) proved to be of (So Bl•;RXE^•, The Food of the Bivds. {^^ Emu Oct. considerable value, as it contained a rare crab that previously had been reported only from Cape York and Thursday Island. It will be noted that my list contains practically no seed- eaters, I having separated these and forwarded them to Mr. F. M, Bailey, the obliging Queensland Government Botanist, who is propagating the seeds obtained thereby and will record the result. Mr. Le Souef, too, I may add, is growing such seeds as he found in the stomachs sent him. It will be noted also that no mention of honey is made in connection with any of the MelipJiagidce, but this, I think, would hardly be discernible in a dried state. If readers would only realise what a lot of really useful information is thoughtlessly lost when a bird is thrown away, they would at least save some of it by preserving the stomachs of such as they are able, and this is easily done by removing the outer fleshy covering and pinning on to a wall, out of reach of cats and mice, until dry. Careful identification of the bird is necessary, and a record should be kept of locality and date. I feel sure that Mr. Le Souef, or any of the authorities, would be glad to receive specimens from anyone who, like myself, has not got a microscope at hand or a museum at his back. Subjoined are the names of birds, with contents of stomachs, and the birds were all obtained about the Flinders River, N.O., on an area of a hundred miles to the west of Hughenden. ii6. Rufous Song-Lark {Cinder hamphus rw/escens). — Caterpillars, beetles. 117 and 136. Black-faced Wood-Swallow (.-J r/amws melanops). — Beetles of the families Cisterlidae and Allecula. 118. Spotted Crake (Por2fl«fl fluminea). — Water beetles. 119. Red-backed Kingfisher (Halcyon pyrrhopygius). — Beetles of the family Tenebrionidae ; 75 per cent, beetles and 2z, per cent, of ground spiders. 120. Night-Heron (Nycficorax caledonicus). — Crab (Tlielphitsa trans- versa). 121. White-shafted Fantail {Rhipidiira albiscapa). — Small flies and a few small beetles. 122. Black-headed Diamond-Bird (Par dale/ us melanocephahis). — ^loth eggs, flies, and caterpillars. 123. Black-headed Diamond-Bird (P. melanocephalus). — Flies, cater- pillars. 126. Butcher-Bird (Cracticus destructor). — Numerous small beetles. 127. Babbler or Chdiiiexei (Pomatorhinus temporalis). — Small beetles. 129. Yellow-throated Miner (My^aw/Zm flavigitla). — Caterpillars, ants. 130. Little Friar-Bird (Philemon citreogularis, sub-sp. sordidus). — Spiders, many Coccidae (scale-insects), a fly of the family Muscidse, beetles. 131. Red-capped Robin (Petrceca goodenovii). — Small flies and beetles. 133. Brown Honej^-eater (Glycyphila ocularis). — Flies and small beetles. 138. Flock-Pigeon (Histriophaps hislrionica). — \'egetable matter, seeds. ^"'I'go"'] Berne V, The Food of the Birds. 8 1 144. Brown Shrike-Thrush {Collyriocincla hrunnea). — Beetles and caterpillars. 148. Yellow-throated Miner (Myzantha flavigula). — Few small beetles. 149. Ground-Lark (Anthits anstralis). — Small beetles. 151. Magpie-Lark (GraUina picata). — Spiders of the family Amaurobius, lepidopterous larvae^ beetle grubs, some heteromerous beetles, wasps, ants, grass seeds, marsh-mallow seeds, and leguminous seeds. 152. White-throated Fly-eater (Gerygone albigularis). — Small flies, wasps. 154. Pale Flycatcher {Micrceca pallida). — Numerous white ants. 155. Lesser White-plumed Honey-eater {P/ilolis leilavalensis).— Small flies, beetles, &c. 156. Lesser White-plumed Honey-eater (P. leilavalensis). — Small flies, wasps, &c. 157. Red-throated Honey-eater {Entomophila rufignlaris). — Cater- pillars, beetles, flies. 158. Black-headed Diamond-Bird {Pardalotus melanocephalus). — Flies, wasps, &c 159. Pallid Cuckoo (Ciiculiis pallidus). — Many hairy caterpillars, probably species of Teara ; some butterfly larvae, probably Danais menippe. 160. Striated Tree-runner {Sittella striata). — Caterpillars and a few beetles 161. Striated Tree-runner (5. striata). — Caterpillars. 165. Black-breasted Lark (Cinclorhamphus cruralis). — Grasshoppers, cockroaches. 167. Black-breasted Lark (C. crurali^). — Beetles, crickets, tS:c. 169. Black-breasted Lark (C. cruralis). — Beetles, flies, &c. 170. Black-breasted Lark (C. cruralis). — 75 per cent, beetles, 25 per cent, vegetable matter. 171. Brown Quail (Syncecus australis). — i beetle, vegetable matter, and thistle seeds. 176. Lesser Golden Plover {Charadriiis dominicus). — Caterpillars, grubs. Magpies or CroW'Shrikes. Bv Isaac Batey, Drouin (Vict.) My knowledge of these fine birds began with GymnorJiina leuconota at Redstone Hill, near Sunbury, in 1846, and in later years extended to Woodend, where G. tibicen was met with. The White and the Black-backs were found there living amicably together. About five years ago, having to go to Tandara, some 27 miles north from Bendigo, a young pet G. tibicen was seen quite different in marking to those met with further south. The black bands across the backs of the Woodend birds may be set down as narrow, whereas in the Tandara specimen the black ran up towards the base of the skull. According to Mr. A. J. Campbell's work, " Nests and Eggs of Australian Birds," G. leucoiiofa ranges over New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia, but there is a big gap in that 82 Bathy, Magpies or Cvoiv-Shrikes. [,sf"oct. section of Riverina known as the Old Man Plain, extending from Wanganella, on the Billabong, to Hay, on the Murrumbidgee. During five years' residence on the late Mr. G. Fairbairn's Eli Elwah, a station embracing an area of 166,000 acres, at the very outside a dozen Magpies were noted, and I think they belonged to the White-backed tribe. Besides, I made excur- sions into the surrounding districts with stock, and a 50-mile trip down river from Hay, and once some miles over the Murrumbidgee towards Booligal. In all these travels Magpies can be written down as conspicuous by their absence. With regard to our singing Magpies, to careless observers they are merely birds ; but if we study their habits, whether in captivity or their wild state, we will discover that in some ways they resemble human beings. Towards each other they display superciliousness. I had once a splendid chance to note the vagaries of five Magpies. These seemingly spent the greater part of their time on an open grassy slope running up from our ancient homestead. This party was split into two coteries — one a male with a female, the other a male with two females. As a rule Magpies towards each other are very friendly, but between these two sets there was an exclusiveness v/hich, to speak figuratively, was unbridgeable. Although carefully watched, never at any time did they mix together. True, they might approach to within 20 or 30 yards of each other, but even then the line of demarcation was strictly observed, save that at times they did cross it to indulge in a brief skirmish. In feeding they were never a gunshot apart, and strutted about with an air of insolent hauteur. They carried their wings slightly drooped, the style in which they walked was expressive of scorn, and besides that action they appeared to talk insult- ingly. Occasionally one man, to "take down" another, or arouse his ire, will talk at him, and these birds apparently did the very same thing. It was highly amusing to watch them exhibiting undisguised contempt towards each other. I had them under my eye for months. The weaker faction nested, bringing a brace of fine youngsters, who in process of time fed around with their parents. The old gentleman with his two ladies, as far as known, made no attempt to construct a nest. For the matter of that, my experience shows that only a small percentage breed during the season. My opinion is that is a provision of nature to prevent them overlapping their food supply. The advent of the pair of youngsters caused no change with the five old birds — perhaps matters became worse. There was the same superciliousness, the insulting chatter, and the same little fights. One day the youngsters temporarily chummed in with their parents' rivals — a proceeding that did not apparently provoke discord. To my thinking, if we wish to thoroughly understand a Vol. VII. iy07 ] Batey, Magpies or Crow-Shrikes. 83 Magpie, take the bird young, keep its wing clipped, and give it the run of the- yard or garden. In the country it does not stray far; our most noted one did not wander beyond a hundred paces from the house, a good reason for not so doing being that it gave the free members of his tribe an opportunity to give the wanderer a good hammering. This bird had a keen memory and a truly affectionate disposition. One of my habits was to stretch on a bed to read ; should the weather be warm I wore neither coat nor vest. If the door were open the bird came in, scrambled up, and sat on my chest ; then, if she meant to indulge in a siesta, thrust her head under my shirt front. True, I was always particularly kind to this loving creature, and evidently she appreciated the kindness with which she was treated. Those years before the exigencies of life had dispersed us we had a nice flower garden. One evening, drawing towards dusk, as I was doing some weeding, the bird came to me, and in order to ascertain what she would do, her presence was completely ignored. She kept moving about, uttering low cries that can only be spelt " Hunongh.'" All those cries and capers no doubt were meant to draw attention to the fact that roosting time had come and she wanted to be helped into the little willow along- side the chimney. Here it must be remarked that the cries alluded to are used to express satisfaction ; when wild Magpies are settling for the night the same utterance can be heard. The bird finally returned with a beetle, and mounted my bended knee, so bending downwards I opened my mouth, and Mag dropped in her gift. This appeal was not to be resisted, so, presenting my forefinger, she stepped on to it, and was hoisted to her perch. My chief objection to this pet was that she was mischievous in the garden, especially with newly set-out cabbage plants — sometimes pulling up upwards of a dozen one after the other. As soon as noticed these were re-set ; the next time the damage was not so bad. When detected at such pranks, instead of beating her about, I gave her a great scolding, with the result that she assumed an attitude that struck me as being expressive of contrition, or otherwise put on an air of humiliation so comical that I was highly amused. It was apparent that she was aware that she had been guilty of wrong-doing. More could be said of this fine bird, but I will conclude, with respect to her, that she mysteriously disappeared. Magpies in a state of nature seem to possess a sense of humour ; in fact, without overshooting the mark, to a certain extent they are addicted to practical joking. Such pranks are not frequent, and perhaps they would not have come under observation had it not been for the fact that the forested glade near our residence was a famous night bivouac. They drifted in, in a leisurely manner, from the plains west of Jackson's Creek, in parties, some very small, others numbering as many as 84 Batev, Magpies or Crow-Shrikes. [i.f o"ct. fifty. In coming onward I have seen a joker catch up to one in front and give his tail a sly pull. On summer mornings when there was every indication of the day proving a scorcher numbers would remain under the shade, where some (youngish birds, I fancy) played hide and seek round trees and stumps. Of course, there was singing, but when the day began to cool down this lot went off to feed. With regard to coming in to roost, some came pretty early, others when dusk was well set in. Before the property was let on lease our charming timbered valley night and morning resounded with Magpie music. Subsequently an evil time set in for our carefully protected feathered friends, of which we were honestly proud, seeing that their presence in such large numbers gave an ex- quisite charm to the place. The bad state of things was brought about by the establishment of Industrial Schools on the erst- while Sheoak Hill, near Sunbury. The impish boys quartered at the Institution took to snaring, thus it consequently followed that what shall be termed our stock of Magpies became greatly reduced in numbers. When the schools were abolished things became worse, because, under tenants, all wanton bird- murderers, had free license to do just as they liked. A good part of that time I was resident at Woodend. On one occasion, when visiting the old place, heaps of dead Magpies were seen lying about, shot from off their perches at night. There is a patch of gravelly ground in the district, always bare of herbage. From what has been noted this spot was used at times for social gatherings. One evening not long ago a goodly muster of Magpies was seen on it, singing merrily. This performance would be best described as a crowd of people talking all at once, with the reservation that every voice would require to be thoroughly musical. This mixed concert of theirs was delight- ful, yet, like everything vocal, it had to be heard to be thoroughly appreciated. At this stage the question must be put — Are Magpies in- jurious birds ? As far as my observation has gone, they are not, except odd years when their natural food supply runs short through an insufficient rainfall, in which case they will pull up sprouting corn. I imagine that the damage is not serious, still in certain localities I will concede that in that respect they may be a pest. Cultivators of the soil are apt to magnify the injuries Magpies may inflict on fruit and growing crops, likely for the reason that the law protects them. I have championed these birds in print only to get contradicted, but when one in- dividual stated that neither gun nor stockwhip would drive the depredators off a field of germinating grain, my opinion was that the writer was drawing the long bow. Another person asserted that they danced on the branches of the trees in his orchard, thereby shaking off the fruit. , Some years back there Vol. VII, 1907 1 Batey, Magpies or Crow-Shrikes. gr- were ten vineyards in the vicinity of Sunbury, one of them abut- ting on our property. It never came to my ears that Magpies touched grapes in any of these plantations. The vignerons' worst foes were Ravens, regarding which they had to be contin- ually on the watch when the grapes were ripening. If the question of the damage done by Gymnorhin q-3 first ? " I think I can answer both queries. They certainly did not kill the first, nor yet the second, as I believe that I can claim the doubtful honour, at any rate as far as being one of the first two recorded specimens — vide a paper read before the Victorian Field Naturalists' Club, 12th November, 1883, by Mr. A. J. Campbell, and also published by him in " Nests and Eggs of Australian Birds," and later on again included in his completed work and published in 1900. So much for the first. As to the " last of the tribe," that has not been killed yet, and I hope will not be for many years to come, as will be seen from the following notes : — ^In the early part of last December I was staying for a week at Glenora, and on several occasions I saw AcantJioniis magna — one pair feeding three young ones who had left the nest within a day or so, both male and female being busily employed bringing grubs and small bettles to help to fill up those three little yellow caverns which seemed to lead to unknown depths, as I counted 83 trips for both parents in 20 minutes, and, like Oliver Twist, they still "asked for more." It was most interesting to watch these proceedings. There were the three little hungry creatures sitting huddled close together on a bough of native musk, and as soon as they heard papa or mamma calling in the distance each would give a little " cheep " as though to guide them to where their hungry children were ; when they came near there was such a bustling and pushing amongst the three to get the coveted morsel, such fluttering of wings and wild cries, then a gulp, a sort of satisfied gurgle, and then silence. This performance was repeated every time either of the parents brought anything edible. Only once did I see the larger of the three snatch the tempting morsel from his brother's or sister's mouth ; the number of times each nestling was fed being 28, 26, 29, and yet the father and mother were not present together and did not see which young one had been fed last. Sometimes they would both feed the same one, but more often would feed the one on either side and then the middle one. Several times the mother remained with the young while the male bird was away hunting, and it was a very pretty sight to see how she attended the little ones, preening their feathers and pulling off little bits of fluff, and generally making them look smart against their father's return. In conclusion, I may state that Acantliornis magna is not a rare bird, in my opinion, if one knows its habits and where to look for it ; but, being a scrub bird, it naturally retreats farther away as the land is cleared, especially the creeks and gullies, which are its natural haunts. In a former paper read by me before the Tasmanian Field Naturalists' Club, and published in The Emti, vol. i., page 157, I gave a list of places where I had noted Acanthortiis magna which covered a wide area of the south of Tasmania. — A. L. Butler. Hobart, 10/7/07. Q4 Sir ay Feathers [^, Emu St Oct. The Lyre-Bird. — On the 14th May, 1907, I was visiting Cowra Creek, in the Macannally Ranges, in New South Wales. The ranges are very steep and well wooded with somewhat stunted stringy-barks {EucalypUts ohliqiui) and other eucalypts. There is very little undergrowth. The only dwarf bushes that attracted my notice were a species of pultensea closely allied to. our Piiltcncea daphnoides and a bursaria allied to B. spinosa. Most of the gullies were exceptionally bare of undergrowth, although there were fairly thick patches of wattles {^Acacia dealbata) on the moister bottoms. Fern was mostly conspicuous by its absence. It will thus be seen that there are evidences that the climate formerly resembled somewhat that of the Mt. Lofty Ranges, the altitude being probably about 4,000 feet. But at the present time, and, I am informed, for the last ten years, the district has been exceedingly dry, and I should doubt from appearances whether the rainfall has equalled that of the " foot-hills " near Adelaide. In spite of these unlikely conditions the Lyre-Bird {Memira siiperbd) is very numerous. I saw evidences of their recent scratching in all the gullies and hill slopes visited, and on the edge of the creek bank I inspected one of their "seats" or play- grounds, evidently used by the bird on the previous evening. I was informed that in this district the birds never nest on the ground, but always in hollow tree trunks or trees, often at a con- siderable height — 20 feet, 30 feet, and, I was told, 40 feet high. The open nature of the country and the lack of cover will pro- bably account for this habit. From what I could learn this has been the persistent practice of the Lyre-Bird in this district for many years prior to the advent of foxes. One nest I examined was built in the standing stump of a fallen burnt tree. The bottom of the nest on the upper side was 5 feet 6 inches from the ground and a foot more on the lower side. The V-shaped hollow below the nest proper had been filled in by the birds with clay or mud, then a layer of sticks and again more clay, another layer of sticks and clay. On this solid foundation the nest proper was built, formed of sticks, twigs, bark, &c. Two nests were built close to where the miners were working and in full sight of their workings, the birds appearing quite heedless of the noise caused by the operations of mining. At other times the birds are exceedingly difficult to approach, except when engaged in " song " or mocking. Amongst the varied sounds of the bush these birds imitate in these ranges was that of " knapping " (chipping off bits of stone) by prospectors. My informants, Mr. Murray and his son, came upon a bird making this sound when they were expecting to find a miner. It is quite evident from observations that this bird can be acclimatised without any difficulty in the Mt. Lofty Vol. VII. 1907 J Sit ay Feathers. gC Ranges (South Australia), and there is not the sh"ghtest doubt that the conditions tliat prevail in the neighbourhood of Western River or Snug Cove in Kangaroo Island will meet all their requirements. No time should be lost in introducing this wonderful bird into these places. (Read before the S.A. Ornithological Association, 6/6/07.) — Edwin Ashby. Black- wood (S.A.) ROSELLA AND CRIMSON Parrakeets. — The Rosclla {Platy- cercus exiiiniis), though a bird of exquisite beauty, candidly speaking is a thorough scamp, only excelled in sheer impudence by that orchard pest the Musk-Lorikeet {Glossopsittacus coii- cinims). This " cheeky " species has a large head, seemingly a brain-weight equal to that of a Rosella. Nothwithstanding, the Lorikeet has either no sense of danger or will not be educated into it. If a person takes his stand under a richly-blossomed eucalpyt, numbers of shots may be fired at them. Not so with Rosellas. They will cut at the first pop, unless a winged bird is made to scream, when his mates flock in to in- vestigate. We will now put Rosellas on trial for damaging crops. In the vicinage of Woodend North (Shire of New- ham), a white gum country, with a good amount of dead timber and green, these Parrots are numerous. On the block specified there are several dams, and the land is tilled, hence conditions favour the presence of this bird. It was noted that on certain flats considerable damage was done to grain from the time it became eatable until placed in stack. Alighting on the tops of the sheaves, besides taking their fill, they shelled much, which fell upon the ground. To me this waste appeared considerable, but taken for the whole field the loss would not be serious, because if it had people would have tried to cope with the pest. That farmers made no attempt to destroy them is proof that they were not considered a serious nuisance. Since taking up my quarters here (two miles from Drouin) Rosellas have been carefully observed in my sister's garden — a plantation of upwards of 100 fruit trees of various descriptions. When the fruit season arrives, Rosellas in small parties make frequent raids, with fatal consequences to themselves, because one or two are shot. Concerning these marauders my opinion is if not molested others would chum in with them — an increase of invaders means an extension of havoc amongst the fruit. About Drouin there are some extensive orchards. So far, no complaints have reached me to the effect that this bird is a fruit pirate. Since the commencement of this month (June) at this place they have started nipping off" the ends of the future fruit-spikes of pear trees. Whether this is done to sharpen their QO Stray Feathers. [^j. Emu t Oct. bills or to eat the tender buds I am not sure, because the moment they are noticed the gun is brought out. Last year on two occasions a few short rows of garden peas were planted. Not being closely watched, as the sprouts appeared " pretty Joeys " hooked up every one. More could be said concerning this lovely creature, but it has been dwelt on long enough, so by way of an appropriate ending, the plough with the axe has enlarged its empire to such an extent that extinction is an impossibility. Crimson Parrakeet {Platycerais elegans). — As far back as can be remembered this bird was called the " Lory." I can remember it on the Plenty River, where my father was overseer to Mr. E. T. Flintoff on what is now Oldstead, near Greens- borough. It was about the year 1843 that 1 saw Mr. Batey throw a stick at a flock of these Parrots, either on a newly-sown paddock or alongside of cornstacks. It is highly probable that they are not to be found there now. P. elegans is one of those birds that has been pushed back by settlement — not a matter to be wondered at, because, as far as my observation has gone, it displays a partiality for thickly timbered tracts. In passing through a large extent of the Black Forest, near Mt. Macedon (though all useful timber is cut down, in parts it is dense enough to this day, owing to the fact of natural replacement), where real forest gloom prevails, if a Parrot is to be seen it is bound to be P. elegans. Herein it differs from the Rosella, a creature that may be termed a bird of sunshine, seeing that it has a leaning towards open forest country. By the way, one year, near Lancefield, season now forgotten, some Crimson Parrakeets were feeding in eucalypts, which to the best of my recollection were not in flower. One or two birds were knocked over, and when cooked were unpleasant eating — rather a surprise to me, because at other times I had found them as good as Rosellas. Hybrid (.'' Gould's Platycerais igm'ttis). — My first knowledge of this Parrot was derived from Mr. James Notman, of Mt. William, near Lancefield, in 1882. He described it as a cross between a Rosella and a Crimson Parrakeet as far as colour was concerned. From where his old homestead stands a wide valley is crossed, then a low ridge, and after that a blind creek. In this we are going to Kilmore. Mr. Notman, in speaking of those Parrots, said — " I have never seen them on this side of the creek," meaning, of course, Mt. William side. I subsequently saw the specimen, and observed that my in- formant's description was correct in that it appeared a hybrid. Latterly, visiting the National Museum, I saw similar birds. — ISAAC Batev. Drouin. [Mr. Batey's interest- ing remarks were read at the June meeting of the B.O.C. — Eds.] Vol. VII 1907 •1 Stray Feathers. Q7 An Autumn Outing. — Mr. H. C. Thompson and myself had an interesting afternoon among the birds in the neighbour- hood of Launceston recently. Taking our way through the grand columnar rocks of Cataract Gorge, we turned at right angles and entered a wooded gully, down the centre of which is the course of a stream. Owing to the continued dry weather this autumn, the lower part of this course is now quite dry, but the tree-ferns shooting up from its rocky bed do not yet appear to have felt the effect of this unusual drought, but wave their fronds as luxuriantly as before. From the end of the Gorge, just before turning into the track alongside the watercourse, a fine Shrike-Thrush {Colly rwcincla rcctirostris) flew from almost under our feet and retreated into a patch of scrub ; we notice that this bird, in the comparatively open bush around our town, appears smaller and much lighter in tint than the same species which lives amid the great timbered tracts of the north-west of our island. Having entered the gully, a party of three Grey-tailed Thickheads {PacJiyccpJuxla glaucnni) entertained us with their tuneful whistling among the young gums just across the creek- bed ; their throats were whitish, but we could not see any development of the rich yellow hue which adorns the breast of the matured male. A Fire-tailed Finch i^ZoncegintJuis bcllns) flew along before us, and soon after we espied a beautiful Strong-billed Honey-eater {Melitlireptiis validirostris) sitting on the topmost peak of a small dead tree, enjoying himself in the genial sunshine. This species is much more familiar than its congener, the Black-headed Honey-eater (M. inelanocephalns), and I have often seen it come about the gardens of the North- West Coast in winter time to feed on the nectar of the crested wattle, that very early-flowering acacia which has come to us from Westralia. Amid a patch of bracken the Browntails {Acanthiza dienienensis) were uttering their sweet wild notes, and one which appeared amid the heads of the fern was a very well developed specimen, seemingly larger and darker in tint than the rest. Finding at length a good pool of clear water in the upper part of the rocky creek bed, we camped for lunch, and having boiled the billy and infused the Bohea, we fell to with good appetites, as it was then after two o'clock. Mr. Thompson had selected a delightful sp(^t, sheltered from sun and wind and overhung with small blackwoods and wattles (acacias). Here the notes of the " Ground Diamond " frequently reached our ears — not the familiar " ding-dong " utterance of spring, but a sequence of three rapid notes, usually answered by a peculiar " purring " sound, perhaps uttered by the female. The beautiful mellow calls of the Yellow-throated Honey-eater {Ptilotis flavigularis) were also heard now and again, and seemed to fit in perfectly with our surroundings ; somehow I always think of the Bulbul, as sung by the poets of the Orient, when enjoy- Qo Stray Feathers. f ^^ Emu Oct. ingthe musical utterances of this fine Honey-eater. During our ramble between lunch and sundown many interesting nests were inspected, although, of course, tenantless at this season ; for instance, that of a Grey-tailed Thickhead about 15 feet up in a prickly box, built of strips of peppermint bark, and lined very neatly with fine native grasses. My companion has found that the " Derwent Jackass " {Cractiais cinereus) always employs the shining seed-stalks of a native grass for lining purposes. The flask-like nests of Firetails were often under observation, usually in a prickly shrub or a small bushy-topped wattle, about 5 feet up, and constructed of coarse grass. While travelling through the Buchan district of Victoria in company with a friend, during the past summer, we discovered a nest of this species in February with three fresh eggs — very late house- keeping this ! When building, this bird uses a lot of green grass. In a dogwood {^Poinaderris), where a convenient cavity had been left among a lot of shoots at a height of about 6 feet 6 inches from the ground, was placed the home of a Shrike- Thrush, formed of strips of dry cassinia bark, and lined with fine grass and rootlets. Another was placed about 4 feet up in the midst of a green cassinia bush — a fine, big, circular nest, which measured 8^ inches in diameter taken right across the top, 4^ inches inside diameter, and 3 inches deep. The method of con- struction was most ingenious : on the outside strips of pepper- mint gum bark were wound round and round ; inside this was a layer of bark passed under the bottom of the nest instead of being wound round it, the ends coming vertically up the sides.. and with this were gum leaves, also placed vertically ; then another wall of horizontal bark-strips and leaves, the latter being also placed lengthwise to correspond with the bark. Where the ends or sides of leaves had projected above the top of the wall, the sharp beak of the Thrush had clipped off the offending portions as neatly as if done with scissors. The usual inner lining was employed, and a beautifully warm and secure home was the result of the indefatigable labours of these clever archi- tects. High up in a white gum which grew in the gully was placed the nest of the Brown Hawk {Hzeraddea orientalis) on a limb partl}^ dead ; two other of these bulky stick structures were espied near the top of a giant gum of the same species, prob- ably 150 feet up, and placed on branches which were very conspicuous. These two would probably be built in different seasons by the same birds, as it is improbable that two pairs could exist in such close proximity. One of our most interesting inspections was that of a Dusky Robin's {Petrceca vittata) home, built in a very unusual spot. This plain-plumaged little bird usually selects a niche in a hollow tree, or a site amid the roots which project from the butt of an overturned giant; but in this case it had chosen the horizontal limb of a dogwood tree %!;"■] Stray Feathers. 99 about ro feet from the ground, and had placed the structure amid thick foliage, so as to be practically invisible. Mounting on to my friend's broad shoulders, I was enabled to make a close inspection, and found the principal material to be, as usual, fine rootlets, the top edge of twigs bound with cobweb ; the lining was of grass, rootlets, and fine bark. — H. Stuart Dove. Launceston, 19 5/07. * * * Some Birds Occurring in Areas 8 and 9 of Aus- tralia, NOT GIVEN IN HaLL'S " KEY " (SECOND EDITION). — Some time since I received a copy of Mr. R. Hall's second edition of " Key to the Birds of Australia." The idea of giving the meanings and derivations of the various species and genera is an excellent one, interesting and instructive, but it was unfortunate, when Mr. Hall was bringing out a new edition, he did not give more attention to the distribution of species. Of course there can be no hard and fast boundary lines of any of the areas into which Australia is ornithologically divided on paper for convenience, but still the following list of species (to which I called Mr. Hall's attention soon after the publication of the first edition of his " Key ") shows that the working out of the distribution of them has been very imperfectly done, at any rate for areas 8 and 9, and the list may prove of interest and use to other ornithologists. I know that Mr. Hall considers that the North-West Cape region should be included in area 9, but I maintain that it ornithologically forms part of area 8. For one reason, out of the enclosed list of 56 species 42 of them rarely occur as far south as Geraldton, leaving only 14 that appear to occur generally through S.W. Australia. Mr. Hall seems to be rather confused in his descriptions of the various PacJiycepluila — e.g., he describes Pacliycephala gilberti as possessing a " black pectoral collar." This bird is not uncommon about Katanning and Broome Hill, but apparently Mr. Hall did not procure any specimens when he was in this vicinity in 1899. List of birds observed and identified by me which are not marked in Mr. Hall's " Key " as occurring in area 9. Those marked with an asterisk are not marked in Mr. Hall's " Key " as occurring in either area 8 or 9 : — Observed 4. Haliastur girrenera . . Gascoyne River (o N.W. Cape 26. Accipitet cirrhocephalus . . Albany to N.W. Cape 44. Corvus coronoides . . . . Albany to N.W. Cape 84. Lalage tricolor . . . . Albany to N.W. Cape 122. Malurus leucopterus .. N.W. Cape region 175. Stipiturus ruftceps . . N.W. Cape *i95. Acanthiza uropygialis . . N.W. Cape 229. Pomalorhinus rubeculus . . Minilya River 230. Cinclorhamphus cruralis . . Broome Hill to N.W. Cape *242. Sphenostoma cristatum . . Gascoyne River to N.W. Cape 248. Cracticus nigvigularis . . Mingenew to N.W. Cape 100 Stray Feathers. L: Emu On. *264. Pachycephala melanura *305. Zosterops lutea *347. Ptilotis leilavalensis {carteri 345 . Ptilotis keartlandi . . *38i. Pardalotus rubricatus *388. Petrochelidon nigricans 404. Emhlema picta *430. Micropus paciftcus 437. Podargus strigoides 449. Dacelo cervina *453. Halcyon sordidus . . 488. Cacatua gymtiopis . . 492. Calopsittacus novce-liollandice *S47- Geopelia tranquilla 552. Histriophaps histrionica 560. Ocyphaps lophotes . . *562. Cotiirnix pectoralis 574. Turnix velox *596. Orthorhamphus magnirostri 598. Glareola orientalis . . 603. Erythrogonys cincttis *6o7. Squatarola helvetica *6o8. Charadrius doniiniciis *6og. Ochtkodromus bicinctus 610. Ochthodromus geoffroyi *6ii. Ochthodromus mongolus *6i2. Ochthodromus veredus *628. Heteractitis brevipes *6i\o. Calidris arenaria . . *643. Gelochelidon anglica *644. Hydro pogne caspia *646. Sterna media 648. Sterna frontalis 703. Geronticus spinicollis 705. Platalea regia *7i6. Demiegretta sacra . . 717. Nycticorax caledonicus *7i8. Biitorides stagnatilis *729. Plotus novcs-liollandia; *735- Fregata ariel *72,6. Phaeton rubricauda 739. Podicipes novcs-hollandics 745. Anser semipalmata *755- ^ettion gibberifrons 1 25 A. Malurus assimilis I may also remark that in 7"//'Oin Magazines, &c. lOQ many kinds are excessively numerous. The Stewart Island Shag, with its beautiful white breast, can, in Stewart Island, be no enemy of the fisherman. One hears the Morepork at night, and to finish my by no means exhaustive list, the White Heron (Egret) is still said to be found in one spot, at any rate." — N.Z. Herald, 25 2/07. * * * The Call-Bird. — Under this imaginative title a writer (W. H. Sherrie) contributes an article to The Argus of ist June, 1907. He says, truly enough : — " There is nothing in what may be termed the instinctive phenomena of Nature that is more mysterious and startling to the imagination than the common enough habits of wild birds, and more especially those of the migratory order. The more one studies the habits of birds the more v.-onderful the perfectly natural seems. It is the nature, for instance, of the Nightingale to spend the greater part of the year in the jungle fastnesses of the Gold Coast country, and other regions unfamiliar to the majority of mankind ; to visit certain parts of Europe in the spring for breeding purposes ; and to arrive and depart with a regularity that is positively mechanical in its consistency." But there is a savour of un- certainty when it is stated that on " the same day of the same month of each year the advance guard of the Nightingale tribe may be looked for in England ; and their legion of followers may be expected to come in more straggling order when the sanc- tuary for the season has been located by the scouts." " There is much in common between the Nightingale and the Snipe families. They each have their ' call-bird,' which stands in the same relation to the order as the ' scout ' does to the bee colony. The ' call-bird ' of the Snipe makes its wonderful journey to Australia — probably all covering the 10,000 miles from Siberia in the course of two or three weeks — generally about the middle of our spring, and may continue right on to the interior of the continent before landing. There may be two or three or more of these birds. They seek flat, moist country, where there is swamp and grass and reeds and the conditions are specially adapted for their curious methods of feeding by suction. The strangest thing about the Snipe is the mysterious manner in which the 'call-birds' are followed by the rest of the family or not according to what has happened to the leaders. The average eager sportsman who goes forth with the object of achieving the inglorious distinction of securing 'the first Snipe of the season,' and having the marvellous feat duly recorded in the local newspaper, probably knows nothing of what is involved in the enterprise. The man who has studied the habits of the bird, no matter how eager he may be to shoot some of the spring visitors before his neighbours succeed, will always re- strain his ardour in regard to the first few members of the family no From Magazines, Src. [j^t Emu Oct. seen. This is not because the naturahst in him is stronger than the sportsman ; the reason is more sordid than that. Unless he is a tyro he knows that to kill the ' call-bird ' is to destroy all prospect of further sport, so far as Snipe-shooting is con- cerned, for the year in that particular district. He knows — and this is one of the most marvellous of the natural instincts of the Snipe — that if he kills the ' call-bird ' the family of which it is but the forerunner will not arrive that season." The writer goes on to suggest that there must be some sort of telepathetic current between the single " call-birds " and the main flock. He is quite oblivious of the fact, indicated by the title of his dissertation, that the Snipe already arrived on the feeding grounds — Quail and Plover also behave similarly — call out in answer to the calls of other birds passing in the night, and so attract them to the spot. In the same way, when an outward migration is in progress, the calling of flocks passing overhead attracts other flocks en route to join in with them. Review. ["Nests and Eggs of Birds Found Breeding in Australia and Tasmania," by Alfred J. North, C.M.Z.S., &c.] The Trustees of the Australian Museum have issued part ii. of volume ii. of this work. It is a continuation of the Order Passeres, and contains the greater portion of the large and important Family MelipJiagidce, commenced towards the latter end of the preceding part, and the Families Nectariniidcs, Zosteropidce, DicceidcB, and Pardalotidic. The figures of eggs, which are of the natural size, were reproduced by the heliotype process at the Government Printing Oflice, from photographs of the specimens taken under the direction of the Government Printer, Mr. W. A. Gullick, and the supervision of Mr. A. E. Dyer. As in the previous parts, the illustrations of birds are reproduced from drawings made by the late Mr. Neville Cayley, who was also responsible for hand-colouring the plates of eggs in the coloured copies. The get-up of this work in every branch continues its high- class excellence. The only thing regrettable is the persistent omission of important references. Some of these omissions, in justice to ornithological students, should be mentioned. Although an active member of the Field Naturalists' Club of Victoria since its inception, in dealing with the nest and eggs of the Helmeted Honey-eater {Ptilotis cassidix) Mr. North has overlooked the historical finding of the first authenti- cated nest and eggs of this fine species at the first " camp-out" of the Field Naturalists' Club, November, 1884. [See Southern Science Record, 1885 ; also Proc. Aust. Scietice Ass., vii., p. 621, 1898.] The author of " Nests and Eggs" has also overlooked ^'^Igl"-] Reviews. Ill the original description from first-hand data of the nest and eggs of the Wattle-cheeked Honey-eater [Ptilotts cratitid). [See Victorian Naturalist, yi\\.,Y>. iii, 1899.] He has Hkewise missed the species Ptilotis carteri, originally described before the Field Naturalists' Club, 13th March, 1899. Subsequently a coloured plate of P. carteri appeared in The Emu, vol. iii., pi. xvi., 1903-4. To this there is also no reference, nor is there to, the critical remarks on the species by Mr. M. A. Milligan {Emu, vol. iv., p. 153). Further examples of "omissions" can be cited, but time and space forbid. It is to be regretted that a work which in future years must, from the source whence it emanates (the Australian Museum), be regarded as the embodi- ment of all knowledge of Australasian ornithology up to its date of publication, should be deficient in any way. As the book now appears the compiler neither does justice to himself as a thorough investigator in the branch of science in which he deals (which hardly anyone can doubt) nor to those whose published records at least deserve — if not reliable — to be confuted. Correspondence. SOME FIELDS OF RESEARCH. To the Editors of " TJie Eniuy Dear Sirs,- — Ornithology embraces not only the study of the external structure and habits of birds, their nidification, &c., but also of everything that relates to them even remotely. In this connection may I call attention to some fields of research which as yet have been barely touched upon amongst us. (i.) The internal anatomy of our native birds. Let every opportunity be taken by our field workers to study the bony skeleton, muscles, nerves, vessels, and viscera of all the specimens they secure. Make themselves first familiar with the arrange- ment of these structures in such common birds as Starlings and Sparrows, and then take careful notes of the differences that appear in other birds. Especial notice should be taken of indi- vidual abnormalities as distinct from specific ones. (2.) The pathology of our birds. An absolutely untouched field lies open here. Every tumour or unusual growth, even those occurring in domestic birds, such as poultry, should be carefully and quickly preserved, say in 5 per cent, formalin, and accompanied by full notes. Any epidemic, especially amongst wild species, should be as far as possible investigated, and post- mortem examinations made. If an infectious disease, communi- cations should be entered into with some interested bacteriolo- gist, and cultures taken for bacteria. Plague, for instance, in some countries has been known to attack birds such as 112 Correspondence. T ^j' Emu Oct. Pheasants. Blood films, made by spreading a thin, even film of quite fresh blood on a microscope slide (a piece of glass about 2^ inches by 3/(-inch— rubbing the smooth glassy surface first with very fine emery paper is a great help), should be taken whenever a bird is shot. There are doubtless many blood parasites present amongst our birds, especially tropical ones, which only await discovery. (3.) All ticks, lice, intestinal worms, and other parasites should be preserved and forwarded to some authority for identification. (4.) The contents of the crop, stomach, intestines, &c., should be carefully examined, and notes made of their nature. Insects, if possible, should be identified ; seeds also collected, and planted if there seem a prospect of their growing. Burrs attached to the feathers should be identified, and the mud from wading birds collected and examined for the seeds of marsh plants, shell-fish, &c. Certain species of plants, as Darwin pointed out, may be transported over vast distances in this way. I shall be delighted to be of service to anyone who desires to follow up some of these lines of investigation and requires fuller particulars. I am especially anxious to obtain specimens of tumours and diseased organs, blood films, ticks, and internal parasites, and, where I cannot identify specimens myself, will be happy to forward them into more capable hands. May I conclude by earnestly calling attention to these various points for study, and expressing the hope that many of our ornithologists may interest themselves in them. — I am, yours, &c., J. BURTON CLELAND, M.D. C/o Central Board of Health, Perth, W.A., 16/6/07. CROWS V. RAVENS. To the Editors of " The Emu." Sirs, — There seems to be an impression abroad in many quarters that the Crow ( Corone australis, Gld.) is not found in Tasmania, but that all our birds are Ravens {Corvus corojiotdes, V. and H.) In Col. Legge's "List of Tasmanian Birds" both species are given, and the scientific names are as above. In Hall's " Key " the names are reversed, Corone australis being called the Raven and Corvus coronoides the Crow, the main dif- ference given being in the bases of the neck and body feathers, which in " coronoides " are said to be snow-white and in ''australis^' dusky brown or black. Recently I have examined five or six specimens from this district (some in the presence of Mr. H. C. Vol. VII. 1007 1 Correspondence. II3 Thompson), and all had the snow-white bases to the feathers. Which were they, Ravens or Crows ? Has any Tasmanian specimen been found with the dark feather bases ? It would be interesting to have this point cleared up, and also to hear from other members whether the feather test has been found uni- formly reliable. — I am, &c., H. STUART DOVE. Launceston, 16/7/07. Obituary Notice. PROFESSOR ALFRED NEWTON, M.A., F.R.S., ETC. All bird-lovers will deeply regret the death of Professor Alfred Newton, F.R.S., especially many Australian students, who from time to time received his kind encouragement and sound advice in the field of ornithology. Although an Honorary Member of the A.O.U., out of sympathy with the Australian workers he forwarded the ordinary subscription since the Union's inception. His last literary contribution, which appeared in The Emu, was in the form of a letter to Mr. Ernest Scott on the subject of Dampier's " Galdens." * To do justice to the life and labour of so great an ornithologist as the late Professor would need a very able pen and a vast amount of research, therefore the editors take the liberty of giving Mr. H. E. Dresser's (a member, by the way, of the A.O.U.) sympathetic remarks as they appeared in The Zoologist, 15th July, 1907 : — " Zoologists in general, but especially ornithologists and oologists, will deplore the loss of Professor Alfred Newton, one of our most distinguished and soundest zoologists, who passed away on the 7th of June. Professor Newton, who held the Chair of Zoology and Comparative Anatomy at Cambridge since 1866, was well known and most highly esteemed, not only in Great Britain, but in every country where zoology, and more especially ornithology, is studied, and his writings, though many, were not so voluminous as they might well have been, for he never put pen to paper until he had fully studied his subject, and in conse- quence nothing that he wrote will pass away, but will stand as a lasting memorial of the care and hard work he bestowed on all that he undertook. Extreme accuracy was with him the corner- stone of all his work, and he would spend weeks of labour and earnest research in verifying any reference. It is scarcely neces- sary here to enumerate all the works he has written, but amongst these I may especially name his ' Dictionary of Birds,' written with the co-operation of Messrs. Hans Gadow, Richard Lydek- ker, Charles S. Ray, and Robert W. Shufeldt, a work which is * V^ol. vi., p. 151— a subject continued in the present issue (p. loi) by a letter from Mr. Tom Carter. — Eds. 11 A Obituary Notice. [^J Emu Oct. indispensable to every working ornithologist ; vols. i. and ii. of Yarrell's ' British Birds ' ; his ' Ootheca Wolleyana,' a catalogue of the celebrated collection of eggs originally formed by the late John VVolley, and completed by Professor Newton himself, which, though commenced as long ago as 1866, was only com- pleted shortly before his death ; and his various papers on the Great Auk or Garefowl. "As one of the founders — probably the chief of the small band of ornithologists who founded, nearly fifty years ago, the British Ornithologists' Union — Professor Newton and his coadjutors gave an impetus to the study of ornithology which has had most gratifying and lasting results. " A severe though a very fair critic, and a hard hitter when he deemed it necessary to administer salutary correction, Professor Newton was a firm friend, most courteous, genial, and pleasant in manner in personal intercourse, and especially kind and helpful towards young ornithologists ; therefore he was greatly loved and revered by all who came in personal contact with him. It was a constant custom with him to be at home on Sunday evenings to young students of zoology, and all who have taken part in these pleasant reunions will know how helpful he invariably was to any young man who was working at any branch of zoology. In this, as in his influence on the study of ornithology, he will be sorely missed, and there is no one who can take his place. "Although permanently lame, owing to an accident in early childhood, he did good work as an out-door naturalist, and travelled considerably, visiting Norway, Lapland, Spitzbergen, Iceland, the West Indies, and North America, making excellent use, as his writings show, of his opportunities to study the habits of birds in their native haunts. " A keen oologist. Professor Newton amassed a very good collection of eggs, almost entirely of Palaearctic species, and of some, chiefly northern, a very large series — and this valuable collection he has bequeathed to the Cambridge University Museum. His chief hobby was, however, his library of ornitho- logical and zoological books, and whenever a rare ornithological work was in the market he would use every endeavour to secure it, usually with success. Hence this library, which he has also bequeathed to the Cambridge University, is extremely rich, and contains several of the rarest and most valuable ornithological and oological works. " Though very broad-minded, Professor Newton was somewhat conservative, and to the last he was strongly averse to the extreme subdivision of species, often on the very slightest grounds, now so prevalent amongst some ornithologists of the present day, as also to the use (or, we may almost say, abuse) of trinomial appellations, he being essentially a binomialist. Vol. VII 1907 1 Obituary Notice. 1 1 < "Professor Newton was the fifth son of WiHiam Newton, of Elvedon Hall, Suffolk, formerly M.P. for Ipswich, and was born at Geneva on the nth of June, 1829. Educated at first by a private tutor, he graduated at Cambridge in 1853, and was appointed Travelling Fellow 6f Magdalene College in 1854, and then visited the countries above enumerated. He was subse- quently a vice-president of the Royal, I>innean, and Zoological Societies, and was awarded the gold medal of the Linnean Society, and in 1900 one of the Royal Society's medals. " I first made Professor Newton's acquaintance in 1858, on my return to England from Finland, when he came to my father's town house to examine the collection I had made during my sojourn in Sweden and Finland, and since then he has been the most constant and truest friend it has been my good fortune to possess." Bird Observers* Club. The ordinary monthly meeting of the Club was held at Oxford Chambers, Bourke-street, Melbourne, on 17th April, 1907. Mr. James Thompson was host and chairman for the evening. An interesting paper by Mr. J. Batey, of Drouin, on " The Wedge-tailed Eagle,"' was attentively listened to by members, from which many interesting notes were obtained and discussed. A field note from Mr. G. E. Shepherd, of Somerville, on the Black-checked Falcon chasing a Pigeon was also interesting. (See Emu, vol. vii., p. 41.) Mr. Christian, Kamarooka estate, Vic, contributed some notes, and mentioned that although he had only been in the district a few weeks he had listed o\ er a hundred species of birds Mr. A. G. Campbell showed a variety of skins, including those of the Whistling Eagle, Little Plagle, Brown Hawk, Black, Grey, pjlack-cheeked, and Little Falcons, Black-shouldered Kite, Goshawk, and Sparrow-Hawk. Mr. J. A. Ross exhibited two mounted specimens— Nankeen Kestrel and Black-cheeked Falcon — the latter a very handsome male in splendid plumage. Thehon. secretary showed an instructive series of eggs of various birds of prey. Mr. Mattingley's exhibits were two varieties of a so-called snake — Frazers delma — and he explained that many of the birds under review were partial to them as food. After the nature notes were discussed, Mr. C. L. Barrett drew attention to the wholesale destruction of the Black Swan on the Gippsland Lakes and elsewhere, and moved that the hon. secretary write to the Inspector of F'lsheries requesting that it be better protected. The June monthly meeting of the Bird Observers' Club was held at the residence of Mr. A. J. Campbell, Armadale. Among the exhibits was a fine series of New Zealand bush scenes, photographed by Mr. J. C. M'Lean, depicting haunts of endemic birds, some of which are fast disappearing. A unique picture by Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley was also shown — a brooding Egret {Mesophoyx plumifeni) on its nest, photographed in the tree-tops at close quarters. The fine heronry where the picture was taken was after- wards devastated by plume-hunters for ladies' hats, the breeding season notwithstanding. (See this issue, p. 65.) The subject for the evening being "Magpies,"' Mr. Isaac Batey, Drouin, contributed a written statement roughly covering observations extending over a period of 60 years. Members applauded Mr. Batey's remarks when, as a practical farmer, he defended tlie Mag|)ie (G\iii7iorhina) as a bird undoubtedly beneficial to mankind, although he admitted it took grain Il6 Bird Observers' Club. ["^"001. occasionally, when sorely pressed for food, in bad seasons. Some of Mr. Batey's remarks proved that in domestic matters Magpies resembled the genus Homo. Some pairs had no children. Some families were exclusive, while among others there were petty jealousies, quarrels, and even stand-up fights. Mr. Robert Hall, F.L. S., Dr. Geo. Home, and others also discussed the subject. The combined material displayed consisted of a scientific collection of Magpie skins and eggs from different parts of the Common- wealth, including a nest curiously constructed of fencing wire exhibited by Miss Bowie. The quarterly dinner was held at the Mia-Mia Tea Rooms on the 21st August, 1907, when fourteen members were present. After the adjournment Dr. H. W. Bryant took the chair, and drew the attention of members to the presence of two visitors (Mr. A. G. Hamilton, and his son, Mr. C. G. Hamilton), both keen bird observers. The subject for discussion was "Parrots." Mr. Isaac Batey contributed a paper entitled "Parrots on Old Man Plain," which proved extremely interesting, and much valuable information was obtained therefrom. Two new members (Messrs. Chandler and Cole) were elected. Mr. J. A. Leach, M.Sc, mentioned that the members could use space in The School Gazette for nature notes, and it was resolved that a committee, consisting of Messrs. R. Hall, Mattingley, and the hon. secretary contribute an article of from 200 to 400 words monthly, dealing especially with migration. Much valuable information should be learned in this way, as it was explained by Mr. Leach that the Gazette went into upwards of 2,000 schools. Messrs. Hamilton, of Sydney and Perth respectively, promised to initiate the movement in their respective States. South Australian Ornithological Association. The bi-monthly meeting was held on 2nd May. Dr. Morgan presided over a good attendance. Useful notes upon birds found at the Reedbeds this season were given by Capt. S. A. White. Dr. Angove described the habits of the Scrub-Robin {D7ymacedus bniniieopygia) and its nesting habits. Mr. E. Ashby noted the appearance of the Osprey {Pandion leiicocephalus) on the Sturt Creek, near Blackwood. Mr. J. W. Mellor gave notes of several useful birds seen at North Adelaide. Dr. Morgan displayed a collection of native birds' eggs. Capt. S. A. White exhibited birds from Tasmania, among them the Fan-tailed Cuckoo {Cacofiiantis Jlabellifor/ms)., Satin ¥\yc3i{ch.e.Y {Myiagra nitida), Allied Y)\a.n\o\-\6.-B\Y6.{Pardalotus affi/iis), Strong-billed Honey-eater {Melithreptus validirostris'). Mr. E. Ashby showed birds from the Mannum district, including the Scrub-Robin {Dryiiiaa'dus bri/nneopygia), Yellow-plumed Honey-eater {Pt/lotis oruata)., and the Red-rumped Ground- Wren {Hylacola cauta). Mr. J. W^ Mellor displayed the rare eggs of the Adelia Penguin, taken at Cape Adare, in Victoria Land, by the British Antarctic Expedition in 1898. Interesting notes were given by Mr. J. W. Mellor upon the trip of the members of the Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science to Kangaroo Island and the islands of Spencer Gulf Numerous sea and land birds were identified, and their breeding haunts visited and described. Mr. Mellor showed a number of stuffed specimens in illustration of his remarks, among them the White-breasted Cormorant {Phalacrocorax gotddt) and its eggs from Spencer (iulf ; the Spotted Scrub-Wren {Sericornis macidata), the Yellow-rumped Diamond-Bird {Pardalotus xauthopygius\ and two Thick- heads of the PacJiycephala family, from Memory Cove ; the Tree-Tit (Sjnicrornis brevirostris) from Port Lincoln, the Rock Parrot {Ncopheiiia peirophila) from Sir Joseph Banks (jroup, and other species from Kangaroo Island ; also, the eggs of the Mutton- Bird {Puffinns teimirostris) from the Vol. VII. 1 Soitf/i Australian Oyiiit/iolo^ical Association. 117 1907 J * ^ / South Neptune Island, and a series of the eggs of the Crested Tern {Stcrjia bergii), showing the variations in colouration and markings. The nesting haunts of these birds'were fully described. ^ A special meetmg of this association was held at Dr. A. M. Morgan's on 6th June. Dr. Morgan presided over a large attendance. Mr. E. L. Angove was elected a member. Interesting notes were received from Mr. E. Ashby upon the breeding of the Lyre-Bird {Mcnura supcrba), being- personal observations taken recently while at Cowra Creek, in the Mac- annally Ranges, N.S.W. (published in this issue, p. 94). Mr. J. W. Mellor showed a specimen of the Black-winged Crow-Shrike [Strcpera 7nL'/a/ioptera), from Kangaroo Island, and gave evidence of this bird being extremely useful in destroying insects of an injurious nature, although the bird has been condemned for eating fruit. Dr. Angove exhibited a skin of a Bush- Lark {Mtrafra)., of an unusually ruddy colour, the Cirass-Wren {Aiiiytis stnata), and a number of oological specimens from the MacDonnell Ranges, Central Australia. Dr. A. M. Morgan displayed various species of Aus- tralian birds' eggs, which were of great assistance in identifying other eggs exhibited. Notes upon Western Australian birds were read by Mr. A. H. C. Zietz, F.L.S.. who illustrated his remarks by a number of specimens of rare and interesting forms of avifauna peculiar to the western portion of the continent. Among these were the White-bellied Shrike-Tit {Falcitnculus Icucogaster).^ Western Reed-Warbler i^Acroccphalus loiigh-ostris)^ Red-capped Parrakeet {Piirpurciceplialus spiirius), Western Thickhead {Pacltyccpliala occidcntalis\ Western Scarlet-breasted Robin {Pt-fra'ca canipbclli), Red- winged Wren {Maiurus dedans), and the rare Desert- Bird {Eroniornis cartcri). Mr. Zietz also showed a number of birds from other parts of Australia to compare with the Western forms of the same families. Mr. J. W. Mellor drew attention to several species of birds found abundantly at the Reedbeds this season, notably the Grallina or Magpie-Lark, of which hundreds had lately come about, and the Brown-headed Honey-eater ( McUtlireptus brcvirosifis). Notes and Notices. Mr. H. L. White, A.O.U., Belltrees, Scone, New South Wales, desires to purchase certain rare Australian birds' eggs. None but well-authenticated full clutches will be considered. Reference : Mr. A. Mattingley, hon. secretary A.O.U. PL/\tycercus xanthogenys a Good Species. — When Salvadori described this species it was from a single specimen in the British Museum, with habitat unknown. In the Tring Museum there are now several specimens from Beaufort and Cranbrook, Western Australia. Mr. W. E. Teschemakeu, of the Avicultural Society, has been awarded the Society's medal for successfully rearing young of the Yellow-rumped Finch {Muma flaviprynma) for the first time in the United Kingdom. This rare species is still little known to Australians. The more credit to Mr. Teschemaker. Destroying Swan-P2g(;s. — Portland, Monday. — At the police court on Saturday three lads named Frederick Hardy and Sydney and Henry Fendoloff, were fined 6s. each for Il8 ^otes and Notices. [ist^'o'ct. destroying six Swan-eggs. The case was brought under the Game Protection Act. — Age, 27/8/07. Cleveland (Tasmania) Migration Notes. — 24th August. — Pallid Cuckoo {Cticulus pallidus) first heard. 29th. — First Swallow {Hifundo neoxena) seen. 30th. — The Cuckoo-Shrike {Graiicalus parvirostris) has returned to these higher levels, and was heard for the first time to-day. — (MiSS) J. A. FLETCHER. 1/9/07. The White Cockatoo {Cacatna galerita). — There is an interesting article in The Field, i6th March, 1907, on " Catching Sulphur-crested Cockatoos." Touching the birds as talkers, the writer states he once heard a Cockatoo say — " One, two, three, four, five, six, eight ; d n it, I've forgotton the seven again !" Could it have been our Australian bird ? " I BELIEVE that the utmost estimate of the number of bird- skins and eggs in it (British Museum) the year 1872, when I took office, would be 30,000, or 35,000 at the most. At the present moment the series is more than 400,000 in number, of which the eggs alone are nearly 100,000!" — Dr. R. Bowdler Sharpe [TJie History of the Collections contained in the Natural History Department of tJte British Musenni). Reference Note Held Over. — New Birds for Australia. — Mr. De Vis writes on Gerygone flavida, Ramsay, which he thinks has been incorrectly assigned in the " Catalogue of Birds " (iv., p. 330) to G. personata, Gould. He also describes as new Sericornis tyramiula and Acanthiza modesta, from Charleville (Broadbent), and A. katherijia and Pachycephala mestoni, from the Bellenden-Ker Range, Queensland. — Tlie Ibis, July, 1906. Wanted. — I am collecting data re arrival of Swallows {Hirundo neoxena) and particulars as to the way they spread when they do get here. I shall be glad of learning from Victoria, or any other place, when and where these birds leave the mainland for Tasmania. I am making a chart and have two years' information, but it is all local, and if I could learn of the points where the Swallows leave to cross the Strait I should be greatly assisted. The matter will be forwarded to The Emu.—E. A. Elliott. High-street, Hobart, 6/8/07. Exchange of Oological Collections. — Mr. G. A. Keartland, Melbourne, has disposed of his unique collection of Australian birds' eggs, which has been sent to Britain. Mr. S. W. Jackson, Sydney, has also parted with the results of his life- long hobby. His collection, however, remains in his native State. While congratulating the respective new possessors of these splendid collections, it is to be much regretted that the ^"'■"^^I-l Notes and Notices. TIQ T907 J '-^^ cabinets were not acquired for the National collections when it became necessary-for the original owners to part with them. Great Brown Kingfisher {Dacelo gigas) in Tasmania. — Miss J. A. Fletcher, Cleveland, Tasmania, writes: — "It is with feelings of greatest pleasure that I record that several pairs of the above birds are quite at home in this district, and are evidently the progeny of a pair that was liberated at Belle Vue (the home of the late Mr. Gibson). I first heard their hearty laugh one evening last February, but, as it seemed some distance off, I wondered if my ears had deceived me. However, since then eyesight has proved the existence of the birds. One pair evidently have their quarters between here and Conara, 3 miles to the south." New Publications. — British Birds, edited by Messrs. H. F. Witherby, F.L.S., and W. P. Pycroft, A.L.S., is a new popular monthly magazine devoted to the study of the birds on the British list. It is well illustrated. All students and bird-lovers are invited to support the magazine, which is not a commercial venture, by becoming annual subscribers. The subscription, which is IDS. 6d. (post free), should be made payable to Messrs, Witherby and Co., 326 High Holborn, London. Sketches of South African Bird-Life, by Messrs. Alwin Haagner, F.Z.S., and Robt. H. Ivy. Illustrated by the camera. Subscription, 15s., payable to Mr. R. H. Porter, 7 Princes-street, Cavendish-square, London, W. Notes on the Birds of Kent, bv Rev. C. W. Shepherd, M.A., F.Z.S., and Messrs. R. J. Balston.F.Z.S., and E. Bartlett, F.Z.S. The subscription (i6s.) may be forwarded to Mr. R. H. Porter, 7 Princes-street, Cavendish-square, London, W. Traffic in Mutton-Birds. — A boat accident occurred in the eastern passage of Welshpool Bay between ii and 12 a.m. on Sunday, 21st of April. Mr. C. Martin and Mr. J. Carew were returning to San Remo from Cape Woolamai in Messrs. Bergin and Co.'s 14-foot sailing boat with a load of 600 Mutton-Birds [Puffinus tejiiiirostris). The weather being threatening, Mr. Radford, in a much larger craft, also laden with Mutton-Birds, undertook to tow the smaller boat. A violent storm coming on, the larger boat dragged the smaller one under water, and the rope parted. An attempt to fix the line again having failed, the two boats parted company, and the smaller one was left drifting gunwale awash. P'our days afterwards Messrs. Bergin and Co. were lucky enough to recover their boat near the mouth of the Bass River, where she was fast in the sand under the mangroves. Had she not stuck in the sand she would have gone out to sea with the returning tide. The boat is uninjured, but Mr. Martin has lost his cargo of Mutton-Birds. — Loch and Poozvong Express, 120 Australasian Ornithologists' Union. [j^^ """ Oct. Australasian Ornithologists^ Union. Sydney Session. This meeting will be held about the beginning of November, due notice of which will be forwarded to members. Mr. D. Le Souef, C.M.Z.S., &c., Director of the Zoological Gardens, Mel- bourne, will be the president-elect. The usual popular lantern- lecture will be given by the hon. secretary, Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley. It will be somewhat of the sensational order — murder of Herons by vandals for their plumes, during breeding season, in Riverina ; graphic pictures of starving Egrets, &c. It is proposed to hold, after the session, a working camp-outing in the rich region of the Tuggerah Lakes. The Emu, Vo/. VII. PLATE X, Colonel-Surgeon C. S. Ryan, P.M.O., Victoiia (Third President of the Australasian Ornithologists' Union). Prom a photo, by J. CAMPBELU. " Bir^s of a fc2itt7Cr." Vol. VII.] 1ST JANUARY, 1908. [Part 3. Australasian Ornithologists' Union. SEVENTH (SYDNEY) SESSION. On Saturday, the 26th October, 1907, several ornithologists from South Australia and elsewhere arrived in Melbourne, and were met by some Victorian members of the A.O.U., and the united party journeyed together to Sydney by the afternoon express. On arrival next morning at Sydney, the visiting members were met and welcomed by representative New South Wales members of the Union. Manly, a picturesque suburb of Sydney, was visited during the afternoon, and a trip was taken to the week- end residence of Mr. A. F. Basset Hull, named Banksia Camp, at Freshwater. It was noticed that Mr. Hull has thoughtfully preserved the native flora surrounding his house, and many sweet-voiced birds, principally Honey-eaters, were observed skimming over the trunks of the gnarled banksias in the search for insect life, or were seen flitting from flower to flower, ravish- ing first one th^en the other for the nectar contained therein. Owing to the freedom from molestation in this sanctuary, birds naturally shy had become so confiding that they had nested within a few feet of the back door. Under the guidance of Mr. Hull and Mr. C. Coles, visiting members were privileged to make a short excursion through the surrounding country, which was of a rocky formation, clothed with stunted banksias, euca- lypts, and many varieties of flowering shrubs, interspersed with the peculiar flannel flowers. Cursory observations were made of the avifauna of this part, which is the home of the Hylacola, Origma, and several Honey-eaters, and other birds. On return to Mr. Hull's home the company were entertained by Messrs. Hull and C. Coles, and the former's collection was examined. Next day (Monday, 28th October) excursions were made in the morning to different parts of Sydney Harbour, and the picturesque scenery was greatly admired. In the afternoon a visit was paid to the Zoological Gardens. A specimen of an albino Emu was critically examined, and it was considered that the occurrence of albinism in the Dromceus was rarely met with. 122 Australasian Ornithologists' Union. [^^i Emu Tan. Business. — In the evening the first general business meeting of the session was held in the Royal Society's rooms, at 7 p.m. There were present Messrs. C. Coles, E. Lane, C. L. Barrett, E. Brooke Nicholls, Captain S. A. White, A. F. Basset Hull, H. H. Griffith, J. W. Mellor, P. Mellor,J. F. Mellor, S. M'Intosh, W. H. Selway, A. Mattingley, Mrs. J. F. Mellor, Miss Allen, Miss B. Mellor, Miss W. Mellor, Miss Mack, Mrs. S. A. White, and Miss M. Mattingley. On the motion of Mr. E. Lane, seconded by Mr. C. Coles, Mr. J. W. Mellor (one of the vice-presidents) was elected chairman. The minutes of the sixth annual (Hobart) session were read, confirmed, and signed, on the motion of Captain White, seconded by Mr. A. F. Basset Hull. The annual report of the hon. secretary was then read, and it was adopted, on the motion of Mr. C. L. Barrett, seconded by Mr. H. Griffith. The hon. treasurer's report and balance-sheet followed, read by Mr. A. F. Basset Hull, in the absence of the hon. treasurer. The financial statement showed that the Union financially was in a prosperous condition. Mr. A. F. Basset Hull moved its adoption, which was seconded by Mr. J. F. Mellor and carried. Correspondence. — Their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales wrote accepting vol. vi. of The Emu journal, which the Council had forwarded to their Royal Highnesses as co-patrons of the Union. Several letters of apology were read from members on account of their unavoidable absence from the session. A^ew Members. — On the motion of Captain S. A. White, seconded by A. H. E. Mattingley, the following members were unanimously elected : — New South Wales — A. J. Campbell, L. G. Brett, Thos. P. Austin, W. M'Lennan, W. Coleman, S. W. Jackson, H. Keene. Victoria — R. V. Dennis, L. C. Cook, J. Greenway, D. Deasey, C. G. Hamilton, W. E. Molesworth. Queensland— J. Scotney. South Australia — H. H. D. Griffith, C. H. Curnow. Tasmania — H. Stuart Dove, P. Lockwood. New Zealand— G. F. Hill. Election of Office-bearers. — Mr. C. Coles moved and Mr. E. Brooke Nicholls seconded the motion that the following office- bearers be elected : — President, Mr. D. Le Souef, C.M.Z.S., &c. ; vice-presidents, Mr. J. W. Mellor, Mr. A. J. Campbell, Col. Mem. B.O.U. ; hon. treasurer. Mr. J. A. Ross ; hon. editors, Mr. C. F. Belcher, M.A., LL.B., Mr. A. G. Campbell; hon. secretary, Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley; members of Council — Mr. L. Harrison (New South Wales), Mr. A. L. Butler (Tasmania), Mr. E. Stead (New Zealand), Mr. W. M'llwraith (Queensland), Mr. B. H. Woodward, F.G.S., C.M.Z.S. (Western Australia), Surgeon-Col. C. S. Ryan (Victoria) ; hon. press correspondent, Mr. C. L. Barrett (Victoria). .1. VII. igoS J Australasian Ornithfllogists Vniou. 12^ The Hon. secretary explained that he accepted the post provisionally until 'someone else could be found to carry on the office. He had worked laboriously for the last 7 years in the interests of the A.O.U., and now desired a respite to enable him to indulge in study and literary work, which he had perforce been unable to attend to owing to the inroads into his spare time arising from the quantity of work to be transacted for the Union. Vice- Presidential Address. — In the absence of the president, Mr. D. Le Souef, C.M.Z.S., who was unable to be present owing to his attendance as a delegate of the Union at the Seventh International Zoological Congress (U.S.A.), the vice-president, Mr. A. J. Campbell, had prepared an address dealing with the history of bird protection in Europe, which was read by the chairman. The genesis of bird protection was lucidly outlined, and the necessity of a model Bird Protection Bill was emphasised. The paper terminated with the suggestion that a conference of inter-State delegates should be held next year during the annual session of the A.O.U. in Melbourne to consider a model bill for the protection of Australasian avifauna. Papers. — Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley contributed a paper on the Herodiones of Australia, illustrated with unique photographs depicting the destruction of Plumed Egrets by those vandals, the plume-hunters. It was pointed out that the protection of Egrets was not sought for on entirely sentimental grounds, but the solid worth of these birds when computed in £ s. d. demanded an intelligent investigation of the value these feathered friends are to the community, and how deeply they are wrapped up with our domestic economy. The Egrets and Herons devour large numbers of land snails, which are the intermediate host of the liver fluke, a parasite that is so harmful to sheep. The depredations of these obnoxious parasites cause untold losses to squatters and pastoralists, owing to the demise of the sheep and the deterioriation of their wool. If the statistics of the losses so caused were compiled it would probably total several million pounds sterling, when computed with the losses caused by the land-boring crustaceae and the ravages of grasshoppers. It was pointed out that the Egrets and Herons " police " the irrigation channels and destroy the earth-boring yabbies that cause so much waste of water. The White-fronted Heron annually destroys myriads of grasshoppers, thereby saving the grass for the stock. Mr. Robert Hall, F.L.S., C.M.Z.S., contributed a series of useful and instructive notes on a collection of bird-skins from North-VVest Australia, principally from the country about the Townsend, Kightly, Stewart, and Robinson Rivers, and the Obogama district. The collection was made by Mr. J. P. Rogers, A.O.U. 12 1 Australasian Ornithologists' I'^nion. ^^^^ "j^^ STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS For Year ending £ 37 119 5 8 2 0 173 s. 7 5 0 10 14 8 6 d. 10 0 0 0 6 8 0 £ 27 9 s. 12 15 d. 4 6 RECEIPTS. Balance brought forward — General Fund Col. Figure Fund 23 78 15 0 0 5 15 15 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 Subscriptions— Arrears Year ending June, 1907 1908 1909 1910 2 3 0 0 0 0 Col. Figure Fund— Donations Advertising in the Emu Sales of the Eini/^ Covers, and Postage Launceston Lecture Exchange BALANCE Year ending ^ s. d. £ 130 0 1 1 10 6 0 0 0 0 42 0 42 16 0 3 14 28 15 6 0 9 232 6 3 Assets. The Emu in stock (exclusive of 120 supple- ments to vol. v., part 2) — 1,300 parts at 2s. each Library (estimate) Illustration Blocks (estimate) Arrears of Subscriptions (estimate good) Cash in Bank — Coloured Figure Fund General Fund Vol. V1I.-| 1908 J Australasian Ornithologists' Union. 125 AND EXPENDITURE SOth June, 1907. EXPt The £"w«— Printing, &c. Illustration Blocks Photographic Prints Postage Stationery and General Printing Hook — "Check List of N. American Birds Fire Insurance . Launceston Lecture Emu Covers Exchange Bank Charges and Cheque Book Balance in Bank — General Fund Coloured Figure Fund ^NDITURE. £ s. d. 89 2 9 10 II 3 226 (Library) 28 o 9 14 15 6 I loi 16 6 12 IS 10 8 6 6 0 ir 0 0 5 5 4 4 3 I 0 9 0 17 0 0 12 6 42 16 3 ^173 6 o Audited and found correct. Launcklot Harrison, j ^^^i^,^,^ A. F. Basset Hull, ) SHEET. SOth June, 1907. Liabilities. Subscriptions paid in advance Balance L s. d. 17 5 o 215 I 3 >£232 6 3 30M June., 1907- J. A. Ross, Hon. Treasurer. 125 Australasian Ornithologists' Union. I j^j Emu Jan. Col. W. V. Legge, F.Z.S., F.R.A.S. (Ceylon), gave a paper entitled " Some Notes on the Location of Birds in the Vicinity of Homesteads, Break-o'-day District, Tasmania," the observa- tions recorded being of value and assistance to working orni- thologists. Next Annual Session. — It was unanimously decided to hold the next annual session in Melbourne, on the motion of Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, seconded by Captain S. A. White. Alteration of Rule. — On the motion of Mr. A. H. E. Matting- ley, seconded by Mr. E. Lane, rule 4 was altered to read as follows : — " The business of the society shall be conducted by a Council consisting of a president, two vice-presidents, secretary, treasurer, librarian, editors of The Enii/, and six members," &c. General. — Mr. L. Harrison exhibited an interesting clutch of the eggs of the White-shafted Fantail {Rhipidura albiscapa) containing an egg of the Pallid Cuckoo {Cuculus pallidus) ; also some abnormally small eggs of the Emu {Droniceus novcE- JiollandicB). A flashlight photograph having been taken, and a vote of thanks passed to the chairman, the meeting adjourned for the excursion via Brisbane, Queensland. Next day a visit was paid to the Australian Museum, where members were met and welcomed b}' the Curator, Mr. R. Etheridge, jun., F.G.S. The general collection of birds was examined under the Curator's personal guidance, and the type specimens of birds and eggs were kindly placed at the disposal of members for inspection. In the afternoon members proceeded b)' the northern express to Brisbane, en route to Tumbulgum, a small township situate on the Tweed River, N.S.W., for the " working " field excursion. A fortnight of useful study was spent in the rich sub-tropical growths of that region, and many field notes of interest taken, which will be subsequently published in The Emu. Vice^Presidential Address. The following address by Mr. A. J. Campbell, Col. Mem. B.O.U., was read : — Introduction. Ladies and Gentlemen, — Owing to the unavoidable absence of our esteemed president (Mr. D. Le Souef, C.M.Z.S., &c.), who is at present travelling abroad in the best interests of the Zoologi- cal Society, Melbourne, I have been deputed by the Council of the Australasian Ornithologists' Union to prepare the customary annual address. Following the excellent example of our retiring President (Surgeon-Colonel C. S. Ryan, P.M.O., Victoria, whose admirable ^'°''^i^-l Bird ProfecHon in the Old World. 127 1908 J "/ address last year on the bird protection in America, with practical sugo^estiohs for Australians, has been widely read and approved), I have ventured to take as the basis of my remarks the subject of " Bird Protection in the Old World." Historical Sketch of the Ititernationnl Protection of Birds in Europe* From time immemorial the Germans have been fowlers ; indeed, one of their monarchs (Emperor Frederick II., 1 194-1200) has been designated the " Crowned Fowler." This national traditional inheritance may be also seen respec- tively in the bird-protecting decrees of Lippe-Detmold (1777), Saxe-Coburg (1809), and of the Grand Duke of Hesse (1837). The last forbade the slaughter and sale of certain birds useful to agriculture, and provided for the protection of their nests and eggs. But the first to treat the bird protection question on a scientific basis was Pastor Edward Baldamus, an ornithologist, contemporary and friend of the celebrated Naumann, who, in 1845, at the first meeting of the German Ornithological Society, at Kothen, presented a scheme for protection which the historian states was " severely ignored." The following year Baldamus laid his scheme before the committee of the Saxon Economic Society. It was again "shelved." Ten years later (1856) Baldamus reopened his scheme before the second General Assembly of the German Ornithologists, but was again unsucces- ful. Later-day enactments, however, justified Baldamus's attitude. Surely he was a prophet before his time. Subsequently ('1868) the excessive increase of injury done by insects, together with the decrease of birds, forced the German farmers and foresters into the first practical movement regarding protection. They appealed to the Austrian and Hungarian Governments to join the other States to endeavour to bring about an international agreement for the protection of animals of value to agriculture and forestry. Both these Governments agreed to support the German farmers on condition that the movement was restricted to the protection of birds tiseful to agriculture. This suggestion was the beginning of international protection of birds in Europe, but, as we shall see, it was not till after many vicissitudes and conventions, extending over a period of more than 30 years, that an international policy of bird-protec- tion became an accomplished fact. Diplomatic negotiations were set afoot to provide for a friendly reception of the cause of bird protection in the interests of * Abriflfjed from " The International Convention for the Protection of Birds, conchided in 1902 ; and Huni^ary. Historical Sketch, writen liy order of His Excellency Ignatius de Dar;'uiyi, Huntj^rian Minister of Agriculture, by Otto Herman, late M.P. , Director of the Hungarian Central Bureau for Ornithology. Budapest, 1907." 128 Vice-Presidential Address : [.st^""n. agriculture, and to restrict the catching in the masses, as far as possible, where bird-catching was particularly fashionable. This idea found favour in almost the whole of Europe. Even Italy, the greatest transgressor at bird-catching in the mass, declared, in 1869, its approval of the principle. The time appearing opportune to draw up certain declarations of principles to be adopted by the contracting countries, the Swiss Federal Council, in 1872, proposed to summon an inter- national commission to draft an agreement, a proposition which was seconded by the German Government. The commission never met. Some of the countries raised objections, and pre- liminary negotiations failed. As Italy seemed the most difficult country to win, because bird-catching there was of great importance as a means of livelihood for the lower classes, one of the most prominent of zoologists, Ritter von Frauenfeld, Curator of the Vienna Imperial Museum, was despatched, in 1872, by the Austrian Government to Rome to endeavour to agree on certain points with Professor Targioni-Tozetti, the delegate of the Italian Government. After an exhaustive treatment of the subject, the two experts agreed to six general articles. The articles were not received without much hesitation in Italy, v/here all the good intentions of the Government were in vain. The feelings of distaste among the people were unconquerable ; the prohibition of the permanent large nets, so well adapted for capturing birds in the masses, excited particular disfavour. Then came the International Economic Congress at Vienna, in 1873, which afforded an opportunity for meetings of various delegates and experts. In the Agriculture Section, presided over by the Hungarian Minister of Agriculture (Baron de Chlumetzky), one of the questions of first importance was — " What measures are required for the protection of useful birds ? " Some of the speakers who took up the cause were among the foremost ornithologists and experts of the day, including Dr. Frederick Tschudi (Swiss), who stated his convic- tion that every useful bird — notably insect-eaters — should be specially protected. Every year millions of little birds of great value to agriculture went into the stomachs oi gourmets, therefore the first duty to decide was what birds might be hunted. He proposed the formation of an international committee, and submitted nine rules or suggestions for consideration. Emil von Marenzeller (Austria) approved of the idea of a convention or committee, and submitted three further points for discussion, also two lists — (i) useful birds; (2) noxious birds. Dr. Alfred Brehm (Germany) also proposed important measures, concluding his speech by advising the inclusion in the scheme of popular teaching, or some means of acquainting the public at large with birds, for, in his opinion, no protection could be more ^"lols"'! ^^^^ Protection in the Old World. 1 29 effective than that resulting from an enh'ghtenment of the people. After further discussion by other eminent savants the president requested the following gentlemen — namely. Messrs. Tschudi (Switzerland), Marenzeller (Austria), Brehm (Germany), Blomeyer (Germany), Settegast (Germany), and Middendorff (Russia) — to form a committee with a view to bring into line the various pro- posals. The committee reduced the recommendations to seven. The Congress of Agriculturists and Foresters then formally moved that the Imperial Austrian Government be requested to secure the protection of birds useful to agriculture by means of treaties to be made with the other European States on the said seven points of recommendation. Both the Imperial Austrian Minister of Agriculture and the Royal Hungarian Minister of Agriculture found that the seven clauses were a suitable basis for international convention or negotiation. But there was already a written agreement existing between Austria and Italy. (See previous.) In course of time Count Gyula Andrassy became Austro- Hungarian Foreign Minister, and before inviting the States of Europe to consider the seven points of recommendation, the Count attempted, in 1875, to arrive at an amended agreement with Italy, a country which, by reason of its geographical position and the deep-rooted custom of its people, was of first importance. This wise move was entirely successful. A new "declaration," with "protocol" attached, was formally signed by Count Aridrassy on behalf of the Austrian Monarchies, at Budapest, 5th November, 1875, and by Visconti Venosta on behalf of the Government of Italy, at Rome, 29th November the same year, the stipulations being as follow : — 1. The Governments of the two parties to this contract bind themselves to create, through their respective Parliaments, strict and comprehensive legisla- tion with a \iew to securing the pintection of birds useful to agriculture, at any rate within the limits prescribed by the following clauses. 2. The destruction of nests and lairs, the taking of eggs, the fowling of small birds shall be absolutely forbidden. At the same time it is in general forbidden to sell nests, eggs, and nestlings procured in defiance of the prohibition. 3. Further, the prohibition of the following acts is declared : — (a) The catching or killing of birds at night with bird-lime, nets, guns, or other weapons. Xight is the period between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise. {d) The catchinj^ or killing of birds so long as the ground is snow- covered. {c) The catching of birds on river banks, at springs, or on the banks of lakes, in times of drought. {(i) The catching of birds by the strewing of seeds mixed with narcotics or poisons, or with other baits. {e) The catching of birds with nooses, nets, or any other implements used on the surface of the ground, such as traps, snares, the Dalmatian " plocke ■■ or the " lanciaxera " used for snaring larks. 130 Vice-Presidential Address : L ,.f"jan. (/) The catching of birds with the " parexella," or, indeed, with any other style of moving, movable nets, or such as may be spread on the surface of the ground, in fields, on bushes and shrubs, or on roads. The Governments of the parties hereby contracting reserve to themselves the right of prohibiting the catching of birds in any other manner, if the reports of experts deputed by Austria, Hungary, or the Senate of the Italian provinces prove that the methods in question are particularly destructive and harmful to the birds of the respective territories. 4. Recapitulation. Apart from the restrictions of 2 and 3, the catching or killing of birds shall be permitted only in the following manner : — {a) From 1st September till the end of February, with guns. {/>) From I 5th September till the end of February, in any other way not prohibited. The sale of birds except during these periods shall be prohibited. 5. Under certain conditions, by special request, if such request be justified, the respective Governments may allow exemption from the regulations i, 3,. and 4, in the interest of the furtherance Qf scientific research. 6. As, according to i, the only object of this declaration is to protect birds useful to agriculture, it goes without saying that 2-4 do not apply to domestic or field farming, or to the farm-yard. Though the regulations of 2 and 5 do not apply to birds that, from an agricultural point of view, are not decidedly useful or noxious, if the latter are of some value as game, the respective Governments are inclined to take measures to protect such species as game. 7. The Governments of the contracting parties shall inform one another of protective measures taken in their respective States, and shall give all information that may be necessary or desirable. 8. The Governments of the contracting parties shall use every etTort to secure the collaboration of the other States. 9. The present declaration shall be drawn up in two copies of identical text, and signed by the Foreign Ministers of the respective parties, one copy to be kept, after mutual signature, by each of the signatories. The following year (1876) the Austro-Hungarian Foreign Minister saw in the foregoing declaration an excellent basis for the extension of agitation to cover the countries of Europe, and an appeal was first made to Germany and France, then to Switzer- land, Belgium, Holland, Russia, Spain, and Greece. Progress was slow, the majority of the Governments avoiding any binding promise, and being apparently dependent on the attitude of Germany, where the Reichstag was already considering the draft of a bill to provide for the uniformity of the regulations for the protection of birds all over the empire. All considered that no decision could be arrived at pending the passing of that bill. The first International Ornithological Congress, 1884, which was opened by the Crown Prince Rudolph in person at Vienna, gave another impulse to the cause of international bird protec- tion. However, the only practical (or rather impractical, as it subequently proved) result was the forming of a Permanent International Ornithological Committee, with power to prepare a carefully elaborated scheme for the next Congress, or any other suitable occasion. In the meantime matters were kept ^"'.■pls"] ^^^^ Protection in the Old World. 131 alive in Hungary, and the organisation of the second Congress was taken over by the Hungarian Minister of Pubh'c Instruction, chief!}' because the Permanent International Ornithological Committee proved unworkable. Its members were scattered all over Europe. Therefore it is easily understood that the com- mittee never met. The president and secretary held communi- cation by letter only, acted apart, and spent the money voted by the States independently. This led to an open breach between the Brunswick president and the Vienna secretary, and the committee of portentous name, which should have been an important body, became incapacitated. Accordingly, the Hun- garian Minister of Public Instruction (Count Albin Csaky) approved of a committee of management chosen by the Royal Hungarian Natural History Society, with Dr. Geza Entz (as chairman) and Otto Herman (as secretary), while the Govern- ment was represented by Imre Szalay, Ministerial Councillor. This committee was formed at the end of 1889, and at once entered into the work of organisation for the second International Congress, which met at Budapest, Whitsuntide, 1891. The Congress in all sections was a brilliant success, the Continental ornithologists being especially pleased because it was the first occasion on which Britishers took part in an international ornithological gathering on the Continent. Dr. R. Bowdler Sharpe, of the British Museum, was present, as also was Dr. Arthur Chadbourne and- Dr. Lewis Bishop (of U.S.A.), while those who were requested to treat the several questions sent reports, viz. : — Cordeau.x, Sclater, and Newton, of Great Britain, as well as celebrities from other countries — Fiirbringer. the Ger- man anatomist ; Giglioli, the Italian ornithogeograph ; Paimen, the Finnish ornithobiologist ; and Oustalet, the French ornithol- ogist. The Congress was opened by the Minister of Agriculture (Count Andrew Bethlen) and closed by the Minister of Public Instruction (Count Albin Csaky). Class VI. dealt with every- thing relating to the economic significance of birds, including the question of international bird protection. Not the least interesting of its proceedings was a digest of the operative bird laws of the .several European States. At this Congress it was resolved to return to the Austro-Italian "declaration" of 1875 The clock was thus put back 16 years, but a successful ending was in sight. Germany, in 1892, endorsed the " declaration " of 1875. Then, after a delay due to the circumlocutive nature of diplomacy, France, in 1895, invited the States of Europe to appoint delegates to attend a conference at Paris to further discuss the question of international bird protection. After much discussion, not without critical junctures, a draft argument containing 15 clauses, with 2 schedules (useful birds and noxious birds) was prepared, and unanimously adopted by the International 132 Vice-Presidential Address: [,^, "!"„, Conference on 29th June (1895). The epitome of the fifteen paragraphs of the draft adopted is as follows : — § I. Deals with the schedules of birds voted useful or noxious, but recognizes the right of signatory States to enlars^e the schedules to meet the requirements of their own interests. § 2. Protects nests, broods, and fledglings, but admits the right of independent regulations concerning houses and the interior of courtyards. § 3. Prohibits instruments adapted to the wholesale taking of birds (expressis verbis : "la destruction en masse des oiseux'")— viz., nets, gins, snares, bird-lime, &c. § 4. Deals with the enforcing of the foregoing clause, which may be done ^radatim ; but the prohibition remains in force as ultimate aim. § 5. Arranges for close season for birds to be protected, to last from ist March to 1 5th September, except in cases provided for in §§ 8-9 ; regulates import, transport, and " transito '" traffic. § 6. Defines modifications permissible by authorities. § 7. Defines exceptions to be made in the interests of science and regulates the keeping of living birds. § 8. Contains regulations relating to the poultry yard, winged game, birds living on preserves, guns, and sale. § 9. Defines the exceptions which the respective States may make. § 10. Binds the signatories to adapt their own laws to suit the Con- vention, within a period of three years from date. § II. Binds the signatories to communicate to each other any laws or municipal decrees relating to the matter in question. § 12. Provides for the settling of all questions that may arise in connection with the carrying into effect of the Convention. § 13. Deals with the eventual acceptances later on of other States. § 14. Deals with the date for the coming in force of the Convention, and the conditions for withdrawal. § 15. Deals with the sanctioning of the Convention and the interchange of documents. Now came further trouble. The Governments which did not want to participate withdrew — Great Britain, Holland, and Russia. This was permissible, seeing that the delegates who had signed the minutes of 29th June, 1895, did not bind their Governments to anything, as the provision distinctly stated that the draft shall be submitted for the approval of the Govern- ments— i.e., the final decision was reserved. Italy lost no time in declaring she would not accept the draft. The with- drawal of Italy was deemed of great importance, because useful birds were there not only without protection, but were liable to most brutal methods of wholesale destruction. Moreover, its birds were mostly migratory, therefore alien property so far as Italy was concerned. Switzerland and Sweden made modified demands. Five years subsequently (1900) came the World's Exhibition at Paris, which was made the occasion of another (the 3rd) Inter- national Ornithological Congress, which eventually and happily placed the final stamp on the international movement for the ^'°1"J"] ^'^'^ Protection in the Old V/ovld. t33 proper protection of birds. This Congress was notable for two reasons — (i) because the delegates of the Paris feather merchants and of the millinery houses appeared before the Congress to oppose the cause of bird protection, which threatened to injure trade interests ; and (2) because the Congress framed resolutions requesting the respective Governments to institute thorough research as to the food of birds, in order to decide the question of usefulness or noxiousness. This report was to have been delivered at the 4th International Ornithological Congress, held in London in 1905. Finally, mainly through the splendid efforts of the Austrian and Hungarian Governments, the result of the two Paris Con- gresses was kept moving till success (if not altogether complete) was most assuredly attained. At Paris, on the 19th March, 1902, the following thirteen countries or States, through their respective plenipotentiaries, subscribed to a model bird bill to be incorporated in the laws of their countries, viz. : — Austria, Hungary, Germany, Belgium, Spain, France, Holland, Luxem- burg, Monaco, Portugal, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland. The following were the clauses agreed upon : — Article 1. Birds useful to agriculture, particularly the insect-eaters and namely those birds enumerated in the first Schedule attached to the present Convention (which Schedule the Parliaments of the several countries may enlarge by additions), shall be unconditionally protected by a prohibition forbidding them to be killed in any way whatsoever, as well as the destruction of their nests, eggs, and broods. Until such time as this result shall be completely realised, the high con- tracting parties bind themselves to take, or to propose to their Parliaments to take, all such measures as are necessary to carry the resolutions contained in the following clauses into effect. Article 2. It shall be forbidden, at any season and in any manner whatsoever, to steal nests and eggs, to take or destroy nestlings. The import of these nests, eggs, and nestlings, their transport, the colportage of the same, their putting up to sale, their sale and purchase shall be prohibited. This prohibition does not concern nests built by birds in dwelling-houses, or any kinds of buildings, on the same or in the interior of court-yards, which may be destroyed by owners, occupiers, or any person authorised by the same, {^l-'urthcr the enactments of the present clause may be considered invalid in the case of the eogs of Lapwinys and Giclls?\ * Article 3. The construction and employment of traps, cages, nets, nooses, lime- twigs, or any other kind of instruments used for the purpose of rendering easy the wholesale capture or destruction of birds shall be forbidden. Article 4. In case the high contracting parties should not be in a position to enforce the prohibitions included in the preceding clause at once and in their entirety, they may mitigate the severity of the said prohibitions as required, but engage to restrict the use of methods, weapons, and instruments of * Later additiun. l^A Vice-Presidevtinl Address: [ ist """an. capture and killing in such a manner that the protective measures contained in Article 3 may be carried into effect gradatim. Article 5. Besides the general prohibitions enacted in Article 3, it shall be forbidden, from 1st March to 15th September of each year, to take or kill {those useful birds ivhicli arc cnuiiicratcd in the first Scliedulc attaclied to this Co)tvention\ * The sale or offering for sale of the same is also, during the same period, forbidden. The hii^h contracting parties engage, as far as their respective laws permit, to prohibit the import and delivery as well as the transport of the said birds from ist March till 15th September. \The duration of the close season prescribed in this Article may be modified in the countries of Northern Europe.] j Articlk 6. The respective authorities may give exceptional temporary licences to the owners of vineyards, orchards, and gardens, of nurseries, afforested ground or cornfields, or to the cultivators of the same or to individuals entrusted with the control of the same, for the shooting of birds whose presence is harmful and causes real damage. However, the sale or offering for sale of birds shot under such circumstances shall be forbidden. Article 7. The respective authorities may grant exemptions from the enactments of this Convention for scientific purposes or to encourage the propagation of birds, in single instances and after taking all measures of precaution necessary to prevent any abuse of the same. Permission may be granted — similar preventive measures being taken in every case — for the takings, sale, and keeping of birds intended to be kept in cages. Permission to be granted by the respective authorities. Article 8. The enactments of the present Convention do not apply to poultry, or to birds regarded as game (winged game) which are on preserves and are included by the Parliaments of the respective countries among birds considered as game. 'Jhe destruction of winged game, on any other territory whatsoever, is permitted with firearms only and in the period prescribed by law. The signatory States [are requested] I to prohibit the sale, transport, and delivery of any winged game the shooting of which is forbidden in their own country, as long as this prohibition lasts. Article 9. Each of the contracting parties may grant exemption from the enactments of the present Convention : 1. In the case of birds, the shooting and destruction of which, as noxious to the interests of shooting sport and fishing, is permitted by the Parliament of the respective country ; 2. In the case of birds branded as noxious to the agriculture of the country by the Parliament of the respective State. In case there should not be an official schedule compiled by the respective * OrijJtnal : " les oiseaux quelcunques, sauf les exceptions indiques aux articles 8 et 9." Modified: "lei oiseaux utiles enumeres dans la liste No. i annexee a la Convention." t Additional. X Originally: " s'engagent." ^'^'gos'] ^'''^ Pvoiection in the Old Wovld. 135 Legislature [.i; 2 of the present danse'\* shall be enforced in the case of those birds which are enumerated in Schedule 3 annexed to this Convention. Ar'iici.e 10. The hiyh contracting parties will take steps to have their laws brought into harmony with the enactments of the present Convention [^ui/Ziiii //tree years ftoin the date\-\ of the signing of the said Convention. Article ii. The high contracting parties engage to intercommunicate, through the medium of the French Government, all laws and municipal measures which are at present in force or have lately come into being regarding the subject of the present Convention. Article 12. The high contracting parties, should they find it expedient, shall have themselves represented at an international conference deputed to discuss questions that may arise in connection with the carrying into effect of the Convention and to propose any modifications, the expediency of which has been justified by experience. Article 13. Those States which have not participated in the present Convention may join the same, if they wish' to do so. Any such intention must be diplomatically communicated to the Government of the French Republic and by the same to the Governments of the other signatory Powers. Article 14. The present Convention shall come in force at latest within a year from the date of the interchanging of papers. It remains in force for all the signatory Powers for an indefinite period. Should any one of the same withdraw, such withdrawal does not affect the other Powers, and comes in force only one year from the day on which the withdrawal was brought to the notice of the other signatory States. Article 15. The present Convention shall be ratified and the ratified documents shall be interchanged at Paris within the shortest time possible. [Article 16. The enjorcing of the measures contained in the second paragragh of clause 8 of the present Convention may be dispensed with exceptionally in the northern provinces of Sweden, owing to the absolutely peculiar climatic conditions of those regions.] J Sii£-£-estions. I take it for granted that ornithologists are nothing if not practical, particularly in the direction of bird protection. Then let us see to the great question in Australia before it be too late. Certainly we should not be behind the countries of either the Old World or the New in matters of bird protection. I believe the great future of Australia will be its natural productions — chiefly agricultural — and it is written, "The profit (the fruit) of the earth is for all." Apart from the physical elements, the most important allies of the farmer, pastoralist, or orchardist are our beloved birds — not to mention the delight that many of * Originally : " I'article 9 sera applique." t Originally : "du jour fixe pour la mise en vigeur cie la Convention." + Absolutely new addition : v. supra. 136 Vice-Presidential A depress : ' isf'Tnn. them give us in form, colour, and song. Australian producers appear slow to recognise the great utility of birds, because their (the birds') work is mostly unobserved. The diet of numerous birds consists mainly of the lower forms of life — insects, and such like crawling creatures. Experts who have studied the question know how the lowly hordes of insect pests increase, often at an astounding rate, and what a destructive power they are to almost every living green thing. Happily this insect life is kept in check by birds. Contemplate what would become of the forest and field — the pastures of man and beast — were there no birds ? The land would in time become a wilderness. In endeavouring to combat the attacks or increase of insect pests there is no " insecticide " so cheap or so effective as ths original and natural one — birds; therefore, let us at all times, in all places, and by all means protect our useful native birds from destruction, not to mention the humanitarian and ethical side of the question. Referring enpassajit to the humanitarian and ethical side, the study of Mr. A. Mattinglcy's graphic pen and picture description in the last issue of The Emu, concerning the ruthless destruction of beautiful snow-white Herons in Riverina by the plume-hunters, should spur all bird-lovers into hot action. In all probability the following session of the A.O.U. will be held in Melbourne next November, 1908. I would suggest that we make that session famous by calling a congress of all persons interested in bird protection. We could at least have a conference of one delegate from each State (following the example of the kingdoms of Europe) appointed by the respective administrators of the Game Acts, and invite them to consider as a basis the Model Bird Protection Bill which our member, Mr. C. F. Belcher, M.A., LL.B., is preparing for the Council. The contingent expenses of such a conference would be trivial compared with the importance of such a national concern, and I have no doubt that the Government of Victoria, if approached through the Hon. the Premier or the Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, would readily guarantee the small expense. Therefore, in conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, I beg to move, accordingly, that a deputation be appointed by this session, or the Council of the A.O.U., to wait upon the Hon. the Premier or the Hon. the Minister of Agriculture, Victoria, regarding this matter early next year. Report of Honorary Secretary. Ladies and Gentlemen,— Your Council has much pleasure in presenting to you the sixth annual report, embodying ^precis of the transactions of the A.O.U. for the year ending 30th June, 1907. During the past year excellent progress has been made in tlie Union's affairs. ^'".Qos" 1 Report of Hon. Secretary. I37 Applications for membership have been increasing, and there are indications that the initial efforts of the Union are being surely though slowly crowned with success. The objects for which the society was founded— namely, the advancement and popularisation of the science of ornithology and the protection of useful and ornamental avifauna — are being steadily proceeded with, more especially as regards the popularisation and protection of our bird-life. It is, however, desirable that the study of the more abstruse problems relating to the structure and uses of the organs of our birds, as well as research in other neglected fields of study of the ornis, be systematically undertaken. The impetus given to nature study in our primary schools is bearing excellent fruit, and the desirability of the protection of our useful birds is being thereby more prominently impressed on the minds of the juvenile section of the community, which in recent years was responsible for much wanton destruction, and it is pleasing to know that, generally speaking, the avifauna, at present, is less molested by those of immature years than formerly. Some students, however, in their eagerness to excel in the study of our bird-life, collect specimens and eggs needlessly for identification, and it is to be hoped that the evils attendant on such practices will be remedied by their instructors. Much desirable work is being accomplished by our light-keepers, who forward useful and informative notes on birds that happen to strike the lighthouses whilst migrating. The Council would be pleased to receive any further notes on the migration of birds up to the end of the current year, so that they can be tabulated. Application was made to the Council of the A.O.U. to appoint delegates to represent the Union at the Seventh International Zoological Congress, held at Boston, Mass., U.S. America, in August, 1907. Two representative members of the Union were appointed as deputies. Endeavours have been made to have the laws relating to the protection of Egrets and Birds-of-Paradise made more effective, since large numbers of these birds are annually destroyed for their beautiful plumes, which are used for millinery purposes. Coloured plates of unfigured Australasian birds will be con-- tinued in The Emu, but as the regularity of the production of these plates depends on the financial condition of the coloured figure fund, which is raised by voluntary subscription, it is to be hoped that further donations will be forwarded by members to assist in this useful work, thereby advancing the status of the journal. The thanks of the Council are again due to Col. C. S. Ryan for the gratuitous use of his rooms for Council meetings, and also to the Zoological Society of Melbourne for the storage in their fireproof room of the books, &c., of the Union. 138 Hall and Rogers, Birds from Norih-West Australia. [,,t^"jan. Notes on a Collection of Birds from North- West Australia. Bv Robert Hall, F.L.S., C.M.Z.S., and John P. Rogers. These observations were made upon and adjacent to the little- known country about the Townsend, Kightly, Stewart, and Robinson Rivers and the Obogama district. About each of the localities named Mr. Rogers spent a brief time, and many interesting notes are consequent upon his labours. In nearly every reference to habits skins have been carefully collected and preserved. In the first letter from Obogama, dated 7/6/02, Mr. Rogers wrote : — " You will observe I have reached the promised land, finding it a good place for birds, and quite up to expectation. I am now 12 days out from Derby, of which nearly the whole time was spent in travelling. The first camp is known as the Big Spring, on the Obogama road, and about 63 miles from Derby. There I secured what I believe to be the following species : — Shining Flycatcher, male and female ; Northern Fantail, male; Blue" Flycatcher, male ; and young with adults of Myiagra latirostris. This spring is approximately i mile in circumference, with a very dense growth of vegetation. It contained a large number of species, but, owing to want of horse feed, I had to move off. The second camp was 8 miles up the Townsend, which yielded the Brown Quail. The third camp was further continued, where I secured a Spotted Harrier, Smutty Parrakeet, Partridge Bronze-wing Pigeon, and a Little Shrike-Thrush. The fourth camp, distant 7 miles, brought me into rough, hilly country, where the traces of natives were fresh and numerous. Being alone, I moved along almost at once. Here I secured a small Heron (sp. .?), a Jacana in the lily leaves in a large waterhole, and a Silvery-crowned Friar-Bird." "Along the shores of King Sound there is a fringe of mangroves several miles wide, probably four. Travelling is very tiresome, mosquitoes exceedingly numerous, and the man- grove roots difficult to pass, one mile an hour being a good result." Mr. Rogers communicates to me the information that Mr.. Felix Meyer, one of the oldest residents, considers he (Mr. Rogers) is the first collector to visit the Obogama country. Mr. Meyer, once manager of the Meda station, adjoining Obogama, met Mr. Bowyer-Boycr, who collected on the Fitzroy River, as far up as Mt. Anderson, 60 miles from Derby, where he remained camped for some weeks. There was a gentleman, by name Frogget, who travelled so far out, and another whose name is forgotten. If Mr. Alex. Forrest had a collector with him in his exploration trip into West Kimberley, he must have been near Obogama. Dr. House has not travelled through the Vol. VII 1008 1 Hall and Rogers, Birds from Noyth-Wesl Australia. 130 Obogama country ; neither did Mr. G. A. Keartland in the Calvert Exploratijon tour ; nor Mr. Tunny, when collecting for the Western Australian Museum in conjunction with the Hon. Walter Rothschild.* Plumage references to the species here mentioned have already been made in llie Eiiiii. EUTOLMAETUS AUDAX (Lath.), Wedge-tailed Eagle. — In a gorge of the Stewart River (1/9/02) I found in a fork of a baobab tree a nest, very large and very old, with filthy surroundings. There was one young bird within it. The nest was covered with young gum branches. MiLVUS AFFixis (Gould) Kite. — As many as 40 haye gathered at one time around my buggy. During the period the large grasshopper with yellow wings crosses the plains, the Kites feed largely upon them while on the wing. MVIAGRA RUBECULA (Lath.), Shining Flycatcher, was seen in the mangrove to-day (25/8/02, Stewart River). There was a pair. The male seemed very excited, for, when it saw me, it raised its crest and uttered a short, sharp note, repeating it several times. When calling it lowered its head and body, at the same time raising and spreading its tail, fan-like. A bow was given with every call, in the same manner as that of a Dove. I could not find the nest in the dense scrub. Myzomela ERYTHROCEPHAla (Gould), Red-headed Honey- eater, in the thick scrub of the Stewart River was difficult to collect. It was very tame and quite numerous, but always at the muzzle of the gun before it could be seen. A few feet is the usual range of sight. Philemon CITREOGULARIS (Gould), Yellow-throated P'riar- Bird, was building a nest on 5/11/02, and completed it 6/1 1/02. One egg was observed in the nest on the 7th, and a second on the 9th. The nest was placed in the hanging branches of a bauhinia tree, and about 7 feet from the ground. The materials were composed of the stems of annuals, a {c\n grasses, and a quantity of hair from the tails of the cattle ; firmly fastened to the branches with pieces of silky cocoons. ErilTHlANURA TRICOLOR (Gould), Tricoloured Chat, left Derby in June-July, 1902. In flocking they were closely associated with Artainus personatus. While the Wood -Swallows were in many thousands, the Chats were only in small flocks ; one flock rising immediately after another, in continuous line. On 23/7/02 this Chat was the commonest species in the district between Derby and the Meda station, 25 miles out upon the Obogama road. Here I saw the last small flock. I now (23/9/02) find they are still numerous on the Fitzroy road, 20 * Novit. Zoo/. 1905 (Ernst Haitert). Emu 140 Hall and Rogers^ Birds froyn North-W est Australia, [^^j "]' miles from Derby, as well as upon the Logue River, some ^o miles from Derby, and upon the Broome road (24/9/02). Malurus DORSALIS (Lewin), Red-backed Wren, is again in full plumage (15/9/02, Fitzroy River) ; one or more " reds and blacks" are to be seen in each little flock. Many fuU-plumaged males are now visible (30/8/02, Stewart River). Artamus superciliosus and A. personatus (Wood-Swal- lows) have disappeared from the Stewart River (1/9/02). Doubtless they have gone south for the " hot weather." Nothing peculiar was noted in their behaviour before leaving. On the Robinson River (18/8/O2) both species were very numerous, while on the 9/10/02 they all retired from the flats of the river. There was still an abundance of flowering trees on which these species had congregated, and doubtless plenty of insects in the nectar-pots. It was, therefore, not a scarcity of food that sent them away. In Derby (20/7/02) A. personatus was to be seen in thousands, while A. superciliosus was not numerous. A few of the males of the latter species were among flocks of the former species. Both species had left Derby 23/9/02. Artamus cinereus (Vieill.), Wood-Swallow, started to build its nest on 28/10/02 — first notice for this season. It was placed upon a low bauhinia and 8 feet from the ground. The nest was made of fine twigs and stems of grasses, built very much as is usual with this genus. CUCULUS inornatus (PALLIDUS),* Pallid Cuckoo, was heard for the first time this season 13/10/02, 4 a.m., on the Fitzroy. CiNCLORHAMPHUS CRURALIS (V. and H.), Brown Song- Lark, was heard to sing (14/10/02) for the first time since last summer. Several were singing 29/10/02. The Mirafra has not yet commenced to sing. MlRAFRA (sp.), Bush-Lark, commenced to sing to-day (26/1 1/02) — the first heard this season. Many were full of song, possibly owing to the fall of 30 points of rain. Cracticus PICATUS (Gould), Pied Butcher-Bird, sub.-sp., had a nest containing three young, 17/11/02. On the 30th inst. one was taken and preserved, when the stomach was found to contain a young snake 8 inches in length, one lizard, and a second so long as to be partly exserted from the mouth. Petrochelidon ARIEL (Gould), Fairy Martin, was seen in a large flock, numbering many hundreds, 24/8/02. They were flying over a pool in the early morning. Their wings made a rustle like a far-off wind in timber. [No skin came to hand. — R. H.] *C/. Ibis, Jan., 1900. ^'"'igos^ ] Hall and Rogers, Birds from North-West Australia. i j.! PODARGUS PHAL.^NOIDES (Gould), Freckled Frogmouth, had a nest upon a horizontal fork of a eucalyptus. It contained two downy young, 29/10/02. The materials of the nest were fine twigs, with linear leaves for lining. Phaps CHALCOPTERA (Lath.), Bronze-wing Pigeon, was ob- served this morning (15/11 02) on an old dry tank. In one corner of it there is a tiny soak beneath an overhanging rock. The bird had scratched a little hole with approximately tlie area of an ordinary tea saucer, and was waiting for the water to " make." Two other Pigeons were waiting near by for their turns. Some 10 miles from the Stewart River there is a pool of fresh water near the salt marsh. Each evening (August, 1902) the Pigeons used to visit it in large numbers. After sundown in this district this species is plentiful, but one may walk in the day many miles before seeing even one. Geophaps SMITHI (Jard. and Selb.), Smith Partridge-Pigeon, was a common bird at a fresh-water pool near the large salt marsh 10 miles out from the Stewart River, near Obogama. It appears to take the place of the little Plumed-Pigeon (^LophopJiaps), which is numerous on the Fitzroy, but not to be found about here. There is a peculiar hill adjacent from which this pool gets its name, " Malmalaro." The hill is composed of red sandstone, with all sides precipitous. The top is a table- land thickly covered with broken fragments of fairly uniform size. The blacks have a terror of this hill, believing the last is seen of him who climbs to the imaginary big black hole where the evil spirit catches one and all, saying nothing about what he does with his victims. The wonder is this prominent landmark is not mapped for the guidance of travellers, appearing black, while all the adjacent hills show white by reason of their " felspar." Xen'ORIIYNCHUS asiaticus (Lath.), Black-necked Stork, I merely saw once, but nearing home on the Broome road crossing upon the Fitzroy River I observed four (23/9/02). This cross- ing is the junction of the fresh and salt waters. They did not appear to be catching anything, and were stalking about in the shallow water. Later on I saw one apparently dancing in the 3-inch depth of water, but upon watching it for some time I saw it capture a small fish. While pursuing the fish it presented an extraordinary sight, jumping along with great strides and assist- ing itself with its wings. It was repeatedly " jabbing " at the fish with its huge bill, and which it captured only after many attempts. It was far from a graceful performance. BURHINUS GRALLARIUS (Lath.), Stone-Plover, had two eggs (6/1 1/02) in a slight depression under a stunted wattle tree upon a sandhill. The depression was full of fallen bauhinia 1A2 Hall and Rogers, Birds from North-West Australia, [j^f'^f^,,. leaves, which, being old, were in exact agreement with the colour and dark blotches of this pair of eggs. As all the small holes are full of these leaves, the wind seems to have placed them so. In the scrub and near this nest the owners were patiently and fearfully watching. On a second set of eggs the ground colour and markings were quite different. "A gin brought two eggs to my camp to-day (same day as the find just men- tioned) and said that they were those of a Stone-Plover, pointing at the one I had in captivity. A blackboy tells me they lay one kind at one time and another on a second occasion, but offered no explanation." EULABEORNis CASTANEIVENTRIS (Gld.), Chestnut-bellied Rail, was secured at Storm Camp, 8 miles west of Malmalaro, 26/8/02. It has a call that quite puzzles one on first acquaint- ance. The sound is unlike that of any other bird in the bush, consisting of alternate notes rapidly repeated many times, the first being more like the alarm notes of the White Cockatoo (C. galerita), the second like the drumming of an Emu, but much louder. The call is generally given when a gun is fired. On hearing the bird I tried for hours to get a sight of it,. my idea of it being that a Bittern was calling. A 'i&w days later, and when I had given up all hope of seeing it, one called when in a patch of mangroves and walked straight up to me. Upon wounding the bird with my gun it fell and then rose and bolted through the scrub, I following the fastest feathered creature yet hunted by myself. Tracking the bird in the soft mud I heard a cry, and finally found it about one hundred yards away, quite dead. If the mosquitoes were less numerous one could secure the birds by sitting still. They are unbearable. Helodromus OCHROPUS (Green Sandpiper) I observed to- day (19/8/02) for the first time this season. Ochtiiodromus veredu.s (Gld), Oriental Dottrel, was seen for the first time this season, 23/9/02, near the Broome road crossing on the Fitzroy. Among them were a few White-headed Stilts, Red-kneed Dottrels, and Green Sandpipers. Some Notes on the Location of Birds in the Vicinity of Homesteads, Break'o'^day District, Tasmania. Bv Colonel W. V. Legc;e, F.Z.S., &c. Observation of the habits and economy of the ornis of a newly settled country reveals the interesting fact that the introduction of hedges, the formation of plantations of exotic timber for shelter purposes, and consequent alteration in the character of the woodlands, have no little influence on the distribution of some species of birds. Vol. VII. 1008 j Legge, Location of Birds. 143 In the early days of the taking up and settlement of this part of the Island, the Break-o'-day plains were clothed in part by tracts of open timber, the trees being, of course, for the most part in the vigour of their life, and based with a certain amount of undergrowth. The flat country thus clothed was backed by thick bush at the foot of the ranges, which extended up their slopes in an endless wilderness of forest. The thinning out of the plains timber, consequent on settlement, with the usual procedure of ringing and burning out, led to inroads on it from wind and frost, these effects being followed by the decay and falling of smaller trees, and the destruction likewise of all young seedlings by sheep and cattle. From these causes, birds that were no doubt common on the plains in the days of the aboriginal gradually moved back to the thicker bush at the foot of the ranges. This was combined by an alteration in habits on the part of species which originally frequented the primeval undergrowth, and which in after years took to the newly planted hedges and other introduced " shelter." Climate and settlement had caused such a change eventually that on coming out to the colony more than twenty years ago the writer found the country round his homestead almost quite denuded of Australian timber, such as eucalyptus, acacia (including both kinds of wattle and blackwood), banksia (honeysuckle), casuarina (sheoak), and so on. Sweetbriar — that unfortunately introduced pest — gorse, broom, and genista formed the hedges planted by the early settlers for ornament and shelter. Provision of shelter by the introduction of quick- growing exotic conifers was a consideration, and that admirable tree Piniis insignis was chosen for the purpose, with such good effects by continuing the planting year after year that a complete change in the aspect of the surrounding landscape has been the result. This has been combined with a yearly increasing provision of shelter from the tempestuous winds, which, coming from Ben Lomond and the central Tasmanian highlands, annually sweep these plains.* Single rows, or belts, of trees were first tried, then double, and both these shelters abandoned finally for clumps and small plantations of the size and shape to suit the locality and elevation of land. The effect of this re-afforestation, combined with the existence of the shrubberies originally planted in the first half of last century in the vicinity of the house, has been to induce a variety of species, some of • The Kreak-o'-day plains comprise an area of about 3 miles broad by 5 to 6 in length, through which the river of that name flows towards its junction with the South Esk. The tract is bounded on' aW sides but the west by high tiers, rising abruptly from the upland, which has a general elevation of about 800 to 840 feet. Being swept by strong westerly and south-westerly winds, coming in the winter from snowclad plateaux, the climate is one of the most rigorous of any of the settled areas of similar altitude in Tasmania. JAA Lhogr, Location of Birds in the Vicinity of j ,^t'"jai,. which in past years had doubtless retired back to the timbered areas at the foot of the surrounding ranges, to again, particularly in the breeding season, take up their abode with us. Noteworthy among these are the genera Cracticus, CcUyriocincla, Petrceca, RJiipidura, Zosterops, and AcantJiiza, as also Cala- manthus, which has, while still inhabiting the " saggs" and rushes in open paddocks, taken much to hedge-rows, particularly those protected by ditches in the lanes, by-roads, and fields in the district. The following notes refer chiefly to the above-mentioned birds : — Circus gouldi (Harrier). This Harrier has been mentioned before in TJie Emu as breeding here. Three pairs breed not far from the homestead. Their favourite locality is the belt of water-rush surrounding lagoons, or tussocky, damp marshes in low- lying bottoms. One pair has recently bred in an immense cutting-grass tussock, the trampling down of the rigid interior of which to form the plat- form having been a work of some labour. In the breeding season the old male of this species courses on the same ground regularly morning and evening. The parent birds are bold enough to forage around the farmyard for chickens, a small number of which are lost every year through their depreda- tions. A nest in a lagoon here, annually occupied, was deserted this year, owing to its being trampled on b)' stock, and a fresh one built close by. NiNOX MACULATA (Spotted Owl). This little Owl would not affect the vicinity of the homestead were it not for the cover afforded by tree-planting. Every breeding season it is more or less heard in the shrubberies, its call commencing in August. A favourite roosting-place is the Wellingtonia gigantea, the horizontal branches and thick foliage forming good shelter for it. Some years ago one took up its abode in one of these conifers in the carriage drive, sleeping undisturbed within 2 yards of the passing vehicles, its perch being about 10 feet from the ground. COLLYRIOCINCLA RECTIROSTRTS (Whistling Shrike-Thrush). This interesting bird, which is a denizen of forest and thickly- wooded flat country, comes every year to breed in the exotic plantations, choosing those around the house. Its habits in the breeding season are noteworthy, inasmuch as it then becomes tame and fearless — characteristics, however, which are subject to modification in years when' our mischievous Butcher-Bird {C. cinereus) occupies the same haunts. In some years the latter does not breed about the grounds, and then the " Whistling Vol. VII. j Hotnesteads, Break-o'-day District, Tasmania. 1 45 Dick " has the field all to himself, without the fear of the depredatory Shrike molesting its young. At such times the male in the early morning indulges in a wonderful variety of "whistles," most of which seem to be solely reserved for tiie nuptial .'^eason, as they are not heard during the rest of the year in the bush haunts of the bird. There is, however, nothing new in this feature of its economy, as it, of course, exists in the case of so many of our palaearctic songsters in Europe. It is in the month of September that this Shrike-Thrush is first heard. Just about daybreak it moves about from tree to tree, keeping usually to the upper branches, and pours forth its loud and not unmelodious whistles, some of which are answered by its mate. The pleasantest calls are those which terminate in a harmonious, long-drawn syllable, all of which could without much difficulty be " syllabified " by any observer possessed of a correct ear for sound. Most of these vocal efforts commence with the syllables zvok or ivok-ivok, which, in the distance, when compared with the louder ones which immediately follow, are scarcely audible. Occasionally these notes are preceded by a low chattering noise, appearing to come from the region of the mandibles, and which can only be distinguished if one is standing directly under the tree and the bird perched low down in it. The usual call in the bush — zvok c/iee-iv/iitee — is not so much indulged in at this season. A series of the bird's varied notes is often commenced by the call cho-ivl-l-ek or wok-cle-atk, often followed at a short interval by quock quock tee lecenk or wok wok ie whitee-teenk, the latter syllables forming the melodious sound in the bar. This latter call, or one similar to it, is reiterated for a considerable time in the early morning. During one season, when the Shrike-Thrushes were very noisy, a pair built in the ivy surrounding the trunk of a eucalyptus, and from the nest the female used to answer her mate in some of his calls. Noticing that the notes issued from the ivy creeper, I climbed up, and, examining it, found the nest; the bird left it and perched on a branch of the creeper, about 3 feet from my head, and, uttering one of her whistles, flew away. The nest was not finished as to lining, and was forthwith deserted by the birds. As an instance of the fearless nature of this species, I have found them flying into the sheep-shed to pick at the sheepskins while shearing was going on with doors opening into the shed. Petrckca PHcENICIA (Flame-breasted Robin). It is only of recent years that this beautiful Robin has become partial to our grounds, frequenting the orchard and the lime- avenue, as well as the lawns and vicinity of the plantations. It has been already recorded by the writer as being seen here in Emu 146 l.RGG-E, Location of Birds in the Vicinity of Tisf"; May, June, and August, showing that it remains to a small extent in the island during the non-breeding season. It nests in November or late in October, but prefers to wait, when building in the lime trees, until they are in leaf. In this latter situation its beautiful little cup nest was found one year in the first fork above tlie trunk, 9 feet from the ground, the outer materials of plant rootlets, fine grass, and ornamenting cobwebs being of the same colour as the bark of the lime, and would have been almost invisible had it not been for the straight edge of the rim revealing its whereabouts in the fork. Another nest, situated on the almost horizontal' branch of a dipressus macrocarpa, and, of course, overhung by other branches and concealed from outer view, was not nearly so neatly constructed about the rim, there being no need for its concealment. The nest was shallower and the egg-cavity broader than in the first- named example, demonstrating the influence that environment has on the constructive faculty in so many of our birds. The male is charmingly tame, and ever on the watch for a stray worm or grub when one is digging in the orchard or garden, and often darts on its hapless prey within a few feet of the worker. In my forthcoming treatise* on the physiography of Ben Lomond I allude to the abundance of this Robin on the plateau in the spring months, which is interesting, inasmuch as this is the loftiest area of its size in Tasmania. The birds frequent the thick, rigid alpine shrubs, interspersed with boulders and tors, which are characteristic of this remarkable tract of diabase formation. They enhance the lonely landscape with their bright plumage, and charm one in the solitude of the far- reaching, Scotch-looking moorland with their sprightly deport- ment and actions. Some pairs may breed here, as I have seen young birds in March. Petr(t:ca LEGGII (Scarlet-breasted Robin). This handsome species rarely visits the precincts of habita- tions, except in passing to and fro from one haunt to another, when it will remain a few days, but not take up its abode like the last-named bird. It is fond of the open sheep-run, is almost always seen on the ground before it is flushed, and then makes its temporary perch on a bush, fence, or log. Its nest seems very difficult to find. It is, like its congener, a very silent bird. Malurus gouldi (Long-tailed Blue Wren). This sweet little bird is almost as useful about the garden and grounds as it is beautiful, and there are few species existing that can outdo it in the extraordinary quickness of its action. It would take a quicker than human eye to follow its movements in *Jcurnal of llie Association for t/ie AJvanceineitt of Science, 1907. ^°iQo8^^ ] Homesteads, Break-o'-day District, Tasniauia. ^A7 reversing its position on its perch — a little performance which it is fond of making. As regards its use as an insectivorous bird, mention is made elsewhere of its work in clearing away cabbage aphis from a garden. This localitx- is a favourite haunt of the Blue Wren. It delights in thick clumps of shrubs, such as Pittospornin, Olearia, Eno)iyuins, &c., out of which the little family will dart, one following the other, to the grass, in search of any insects they may espy, and, proceeding hither and thither with lightning-like little hops, will quickly retreat into their cover, or pass on, following each other through the flower beds, to entrap some new insect quarry. Pampas grass is a favourite situation for the nest of the Blue Wrens, Deep in the recesses of this thick-leaved plant they build a bulky nest, so as to gain foundation for the structure, which is of dried grass, stalks, and " bents," and with a soft lining, among which feathers are usually to be found. Though globular in structure, there is often only a rough hood, and the opening but little finished. Sometimes an open situation will be chosen, a nest a few years since having been built in one of the fir-belts here in a piece of dead briar, which had fallen into a ditch. It was a small fabric, cup-shaped, with only a pretence of a hood at one side, the object being to apparently keep the size of the nest down to a minimum to avoid conspicuousness. Had it not been for the presence of the birds in the fir tree above the nest, one would not have identified it as that of a Blue Wren. There were three eggs — white, with the usual reddish- brown spots and small blotches ; but, the situation being so badly chosen for their location, both nest and eggs came to grief before the bird began to incubate — the work, probabl)-, of a Butcher-Bird, cat, or other marauder. These little birds are so fond of flies, midges, and tiny insects that they sometimes frequent the vicinity of windows in out- houses, outside of which there is perching accommodation for them. From there they will dart up against the glass and catch their food with extraordinary agility, returning to the charge so long as they espy their prey, and perching on the sill to watch for it. Rhipidlk.v diemenensis (Dusky Fantail). This charming little bird has of recent years become a visitor in the spring to our plantations, and nests a few yards from the front verandah. Two pairs occasionally come to us from the bush, but we are regularly favoured with the company of one. They are fond of choosing a moderately thick and very leafy shrub, such as the green Euojiyinus, in which the nest is more difificult to detect, though after it has been found one is surprised that it was not seen at the first glance into the shrub. The beautiful architecture and skilful balancincr on their twie" founda- I_j.8 Leggk, Location of Birds in the Vicinity of [ist^'jan. tion, showing the first stages of construction of the nests of this Fantail and its congeners, are so well known that one need not occupy space in their description. The materials, however, it may be stated, vary according to the environment. In the vicinity of buildings the tiny rootlets and fern-stalks and bents of which the little domicile is constructed are so covered and interwoven with spider webs that it is almost white. The nest exhibited by the writer at the Congress of the A.O.U. in Hobart last year was a typical example of this class, and constructed less roughly and with a greater amount of solid weaving than a forest-built structure as described in Campbell's book. Hair is mingled with the minute rootlets and soft stalks which form the lining, and sometimes a little wool, the sheep-shed being not far from the plantations. So tame are these little birds that they will come in and out of the sheds in pursuit of flies and insects while shearing is going on close by. The eggs in the nest above mentioned were incubated by the parent bird within 3 feet of the back of th^ cane chair in which my invalid daughter sat for many days during the last year of her life, which is the strangest instance one could furnish of the exceedingly fearless and charmingly familiar nature of these delightful little birds. In fact, there is no doubt they suffer in this respect at the claws of the maraud- ing house cat, against which one is compelled to vow vengeance for such a crime. The eggs are nearly always three in number. A favourite situation in the forest is a bush overhanging a stream, in which I have found it absolutely exposed in a box bush. The tail-like appendage to the wineglass-shaped structure appears to be intended to steady and balance it during the early stages of construction — at least, that is the impression in the writer's mind, and it is to be noted that Mr. Potts held this idea {cf. Campbell, part i, p. 109). The period of incubation is from 8 to 10 days, as far as the writer can judge by observation of the nests built here.* ACANTHIZA DIEMENENSIS (" Brown-tail," Brown-rumped Tit). This species, though usually affecting open paddocks, where the timber is sparse, as well as the borders of tracts of bush and forest, has of late years resorted to our shrubberies and Since writing the above note a beautiful nest discovered in my grounds proves pretty conclusively that the oliject of the "wineglass stalk" beneath it is for balance and stability It is built in the thickly branching ivy surrounding an old eucalyptus trunk. Though cleverly affixed to a small branchlet, this is so weak that the birds have extended an arm of the woven bark along the stems of two adjoining leaves, and in addition have continued the "stalk" downward farther than usual in order to steady the nest. The hen bird is sitting extraordinarily close. I inadvertently placed my hand almost on the nest tJie other day, and could, no doubt, have taken her from it. It is therefore no wonder these charming little birds are sometimes killed by cats when choosing their home so close to human habitations. dI. Vll. lOoS 1 Homesteads, Break-o'-day Distyict, Tasmania. l_|.g plantations to build. They frequent by choice the latter, as also the belts of firs, in which trees their large and cleverly constructed nest is sometimes built at the base of a limb, resting against the trunk. In so doing the little architects, like human builders, do not always allow for the strain of wind pressure, and the October gales blow the nests out of their position, wrecking them with their contents. The Brown-tail builds on these plains in October, some few nests being built as early as September. Soft grasses mixed with fir needles, " bents," and stalks form the outer materials of the globular structure, lined first with wool and rabbit-fur, and then finished internally with feathers alone. Such was the con- struction of a nest exhibited at the Hobart Congress last year, which was built in a Pimcs insigjns tree ; and a similar one has been examined in a Wellingtonia by the writer. This latter highly umbrageous conifer forms an ideal situation for the nest of this species. It may be mentioned here that the Forest Tit {A. eiuingi), which an A.O.U. member was so fortunate as to procure on Mt. Wellington last year, never leaves its native jungle for the open. It is found, as I have before pointed out, in mixed beech and eucalyptus forests and similar thick scrub in the tiers in eastern Tasmania, and, according to the writer's experience, consorts in pairs, and not in little parties like the species under notice. ACANTHIZA CHRVSURRHOA (" Yellow-tail "). This little bird, like its congener last named, frequents the shelter provided by the homestead plantations, as also the gardens and shrubberies, in the breeding season. Like other foregoing species mentioned in these notes, their numbers have increased materially as the exotic shelter in the paddocks increased. It has bred in a variety of situations of late years. Recently nests have been built in a Wellingtonia, about 15 feet from the ground, the nest being at the base of a branch, and against the main stem ; also in a Cnpressiis torulosa, its domicile beautifully suspended at the end of a limb, between the pendent branchlets, which gave it shelter from the winds ; and in a young stone pine, the nest being fixed between the thickly-growing limbs, which entirely concealed it. The tree had been nibbled by horses, and assumed a " bushy " habit, forming excellent shelter for the little breeding home. The parent bird is very tame when occupying its nest, perching on a limb close to it and sitting motionless while one is examining it. It will, however, desert the nest if the finger is inserted into it before the eggs are laid. All the nests found here have the second cavity situated above the egg-receptacle. Of the various theories advanced in regard 1^0 Legge, Loca/ioii of Birds in the Vicinity of [,st^"ja„. to the cause for this curious feature, the most plausible seem to relate to its being a nesting place for one or both of the old birds, or for the young after being fledged ; or, again, that its object is to mislead the enemies of this species as to the whereabouts of the real nest. Personally the writer inclines to the last-named theory, the habit having been evolved through long duration of time, like so many other protective efforts which one meets in the study of natural history. If this hypothesis be correct, however, the work of the little birds does not seem to be successful, as one finds the eggs of Cuckoos deposited in the real nest, which is chosen by the Bronze-Cuckoos sometimes where this species is plentiful. As regards the false nest being a shelter for the young birds, I have not found traces of their presence in it, as the droppings would reveal this at once. More careful observation would, no doubt, settle this point conclusively. The decayed leaves and stems of the " Yorkshire "-fog grass are often used in the structure of the body of the nest of this and the last species, and wool as well as feathers for the lining. Calamanthus FULIGINOSUS (Field-Wren, Bush Warbler ; " Stink-Bird " of sportsmen). This sprightly bird is the earliest harbinger of spring in our hill district, and though it breeds with us in August it is still earlier along the coast. Its little song, which is heard especially in the evening while winter is yet upon us, makes one look upon it as the "harbinger" of the joyous time when the denizens of "field and forest " are busy mating and nesting. There is no bird in this island which has such homelike notes as those which this little frequenter of rushes, saggs {Xerotes longi folia), and patchy undergrowth in the open, pours forth in the chilly month of August as it perches on the topmost twig of a leafless briar, the post of a fence, or any prominent branch of broom or gorse from which it desires to captivate its quiet-plumaged little mate. In so doing it suddenly emerges from vegetation near the ground, its normal resort, and, mounting as high in the shrub as it can get, begins at once its sweet little warble, which recalls in some of its clear though gentle notes the voice of the Lark and also the Yellow-Hammer of our English fields. It is fond of thus calling to its mate just before sunset when the breeding instinct first pervades it ; but later on, in September, it may be heard during the morning and afternoon trilling its nuptial song to its partner as she sits on her well-concealed nest. In regard to the alteration of habits consequent on the colonisa- tion of the country already alluded to, the case of the Calamanthus is perhaps more interesting than that of any other bird. In primeval days this " Wren " affected only the natural tussocky vegetation and patchy, ferny undergrowth t}'pical of what we call " open bush." Much of this has disappeared through !oc-" J Houiesfeads, Break-o'-day District, Tasmania. I^I cultivation, burning off, and clearing, but in some soils saggy growth is, still provokingly persistent, though in moderation it has its merits in shelter for lambs in the spring. Where this favourite cover is removed the little Field-Wren has taken to that provided by introduced growth such as hedges of gorse, briar, broom, the thick rushy vegetation which establishes itself on the margins of ditches or along old fences. More interesting still is the abandonment of its shy nature, as shown when flushed from the original growth of the country. For, as an inhabitant of our lanes, hedges, and evergreen fences, it is by no means a timid species, and when affecting thoroughfares is to some extent a familiar roadside bird. Here it reminds one of the Hedge-Sparrow {Accentor) in England, although its wonderful agility as a ground bird is not possessed by the latter species. It is very fond, too, of old road- side fences, the base of which is lined with patchy undergrowth, out of which it will dart to a top-rail or post and then quickly disappear to a lower panel, darting to the ground and hopping with lightning speed along the further side of the fence to a clump of briar or rushes. Thus we have here an instance, in a small degree, of the evolution of new or abnormal habits, which have, in some instances, become so noteworthy in Australasia and New Zealand. The nest of the Field-Wren is so artfully concealed that it is rarely found by the ordinary bird-nester who does not know the usual site and position of it. It is espcially difificult to find when placed in sagg-tussocks {Xerotes). My son, Mr. R. W. Legge, found a nest a few years ago in the dead branches of a small prostrate briar bush, close to our high road, around which herbage had grown up, affording concealment. Not possessing any Tasmanian eggs of this species, I am unable to add to Mr. Campbell's testimony that the insular egg is larger than the mainland one, but it is very probable that our form may be slightly more robust than the Victorian and lays normally a larger egg.* The breeding season here extends over a long period. This year a young bird was noticed in one of our lanes early in July. Usually the young are not about before the end of August or beginning of September on these uplands, but this is early, as newly fledged individuals are about this month (December). On the coast belts, where the bird much frequents the tussocky hollows and stretches among sand dunes, the breeding season appears to be mostly in the month of July. When flushed among the natural vegetation of the sheep-runs the Bush Warbler rises at one's feet from among saggs or thatch-grass {Poa ccsspitosa) and suddenly alights, darting * Mr. A J. North has described the mainland form as C, albiloris. See Victorian Naturalist, vol. xi.\., p. I02 (1902).— Eus. I<2 Legge, Location of Birds. [,^, ")"„ along the ground with extraordinarily agile hops, so that, how- ever quickly one may rush up to its supposed position it is never to be found anywhere near it, and is flushed again with difficulty. It is in such localities much shier than among its aforementioned exotic shelters. Cracticus CINEREUS (Grey Butcher-Bird). This Butcher-Bird, which is a common species in the bush and along the east coast, has been mentioned above as fre- quenting the plantations here. Its spring visits are fairly repular, but occasionally it is absent. It is one of the earliest birds to call in the morning, and is more noisy than the Shrike- Thrush. Its cruel habit, similar to that of the true Butcher- Bird {Laniiis collario, Linn.), of " spitting " little birds on thorns, has been recorded in TJie Emu by the writer some years ago. It is an arrant robber, plundering Goldfinches' and other small birds' nests and killing the young. It nests with us in September and October, building in cypress and pine trees, sometimes in lofty situations in the latter tree. In the bush its nest may be found in the banksia or in the fork of a sapling gum. The nest, though loosely made externally, is cleverly put together, and neatly lined with fine rootlets, dry grass bents, and other similar material. The cup measures 4 inches in diameter, and the whole structure from 10 inches to a foot; clutch, three to four, the eggs olivaceous or greenish-grey, with softened down blotches and spots of brownish-red encircling the large end, which some- times form an ill-defined band round it, while the smaller end is almost free from markings ; dimensions, 1.3 inch x 0.9 inch. Some years since a nest of this species was blown out of the fork of a lofty Pinns ijisignis with two young. It was found by my late daughter, the young lying near it, and placed by her in the fork of a small willow, where it was soon found by the parents, who fed the young in their new surroundings ; but the following day the nest was found again on the ground, devoid of its tenants, which probably a marauding cat had disposed of It may be mentioned, as an instance of its predatory disposi- tion, that my son not long ago observed one of these Butcher- Birds persistently pursuing an unfortunate Pardalote from tree to tree among the fir trees and clumps close to the homestead, and then across the fields to some distant fir clumps, with downright intent on securing it. More About Herons. Bv A. H. E. Mattingley, Melbourne. With reluctance we once more packed up our baggage and started homewards. Paddling our heavily laden craft against a swiftly- flowing current, wc at last reached home, thoroughly exhausted ^°|-^g'-| Matt fsoLEY, More Aboil/ Heronsi I^^ after a lengthy day's battle. After several days' excursions to various swamps, studying their avine inhabitants, we depart for the metropolis, and reach once again the smoke and dust of ]\Ielbourne. Notwithstanding the trials of being companionless, except for mosquitoes, heat, and exhaustive work, I determined to revisit this locality again during my Christmas vacation to obtain one picture only — namely, that of the White Crane or Egret feeding its young. I had arranged by letter all the requisite details of my trip with some of the Mathoura residents, since I had but three days at my disposal and wished to crowd as much work into that time as possible. On my reaching Mathoura, however, the swampsman who had accompanied us before, and whose services had been retained for this trip also, was found inebriated, the result of too much " Christmas cheer." I was in a dilemma thereby, since unaided I would be unable to throw my rope ladder from the boat into the high eucalypts at the heronry, and the main object of my trip looked doomed to failure. Try where I would, I could not induce anyone to leave their Christmas festivities and fill themselves up with ornithology instead. How^ever, next morning I unearthed an energetic, pushing — or, rather, paddling — man, locally known as " Wagga Jack," who agreed to accompany me to the heronry provided we returned home again that night. Perforce I accepted his terms, but I had some misgivings that we would not be able to accomplish my object. Without much ado we started in a heavy boat and paddled for all we were worth for about 12 miles to the heronry, the boat making splendid headway in response to our strenuous exertions, and my limbs fairly aching at the unusual exertion. As we rounded a bend in the river a solitary White-fronted Heron {NotopJioyx novcB-Jiollandice), commonly known as the Blue Crane, was seen standing poised on one leg. A more apt definition of this bird is Blue Crane, since the name White- fronted Heron is certainly more applicable to the Pacific Heron {NotopJioyx pacified), whose plumage is white in front, and which is more readily discernible on account of its being made more prominent by the dark background of the balance of this Heron's plumage. The Blue Crane was balanced on one leg only, the other being drawn up under its body as if it were lame — a characteristic pose of the bird — whilst its whole appear- ance as it stood with its long neck and head bent back in the form of a crushed-in figure eight, was one of dejection, although it is the pose of satisfaction. White Cranes, as the Egrets are commonly known, and Nankeen Night-Herons were also often disturbed as we swept by the shallows near the bank on which they were fishing for yabbies and shrimps, which, together with frogs, young fish, and small mammals, form their diet. The large amount of good the Herons do, especially the White-fronted Heron, is but seldom 154 MattIngley, Move About Herons, [ist^'j'ln! recognised. Notice how thej' police the irrigation channels which supply water for agricultural purposes, and observe them catching the earth-boring crustacean — theyabbie — which does so much damage by drilling holes through the retaining bank and allowing the water to run to waste ! Notice the vast numbers of grasshoppers these birds consume daily, thereby helping the irrigationist and pastoralist — and especially the latter, since these birds devour large numbers of land snails, which are the inter- mediate hosts of the liver fluke, a parasite that is so harmful to our sheep ! The flukes attach themselves to the liver of the sheep, which gradually become emaciated and unfit for food, whilst their wool deteriorates and loses its value. The depreda- tions of this obnoxious parasite cause untold losses to our squatters and pastoralists. If the statistics of the losses so caused were compiled, no doubt it would total several millions of pounds sterling. Without their host the flukes cannot multiply, since they need the interior of the living snails to successfully hatch their young. As the Heron tribe disposes of myriads of these snails annually, the great amount of good done thereby would, no doubt, represent the annual value of over a million pounds sterling. It is not mere sentiment that prompts one to protect the Heron tribe. It is these birds' solid worth that calls us to wave the banner of protection before the com- munity and ask for an intelligent investigation of the value that our feathered friends are to us, and how deeply they are wrapped up with our domestic economy. When disturbed the birds rose from the shallows and flew clumsily away with their customary ungainly flight. After dint of paddling we at last reached the home of the Nankeen Night-Herons. Hundreds of birds were seen feeding their young ones. W^hat an enrapturing sight it was to see these chestnut-coloured birds coming to and going from their nests, their two or three long white nuchal plumes, with which, no doubt, they woo one another, gracefully bending from their napes and contrasting agreeably with their black crest and nankeen back plumage. Unfortunately there was no time to devote to waiting for the old birds to get accustomed to the camera being in close proximity to their nests, so that I could photograph them feeding their progeny. All that could be accomplished in the time at my disposal was to climb up and photograph the young in the nest. The young Herons were observed using their featherless wings to assist them in maintaining their position in the nest, and it was a remarkable sight to observe how these fledglings grasped the rude flat platform (which at this time of their existence is but an apology for a nest, and has no retain- ing concavity or edge), with their feet, and how tenaciously they clung to it, both with their powerful toes and naked wings. After several snapshots had been taken of these interesting The ?:mu, Vol. VII. PLATE XI. Nests of Night-Heron (Nyclkorax caledonutis), Eygs, and Younj; FROM A PHOTO^ BY A. H. E. MATTINGLEV ^iQls^^'J Mattingley, More About Herons. 155 birds, we paddled off to the home of the White Egrets. En route I managed to creep on to some fully-grown young Nan- keen Herons that had just left the nest for their first outing, and I obtained a picture of them as they perched on the limb of a fallen tree, awaiting the dainty morsels of food which their parents brought them from time to time, and which they be- sought their offspring to take from them, encouraging them to do so with a chuckling, purring expression of parental affection. Some of the larger eucalypts contained as many as 9 or 10 nests of these birds, and as we paddled under these trees the young birds, in their excitement at being disturbed, rained down on us a heterogeneous supply of extraneous matter in which yabbies and frogs were in predominance. Stray Feathers. A Rare Malurus. — It may interest you to know that I found the Purple-crowned Wren {Malurus coronatiis) very numerous on the small rivers between Turkey Creek Telegraph Station and W^yndham. This is a rare bird on the Fitzroy. — J. P. Rogers. Fremantle, W.A., 20/1 1/07. Brown Kingfisher and Snake. — Whilst on official duty at Brandy Creek, in the Buln Buln district, Gippsland, one morning last summer I experienced a pleasure which I had long looked for. I noticed a Laughing Jackass perched on a stump about 12 feet high. He was looking very serious, and turning his head from side to side. Suddenly he made a dive into a patch of bracken, and about two seconds later rose in the air with a snake between 2 feet 6 inches and 3 feet in length. He held it by the head and tail, and in its contortions it was forming the figure 8. The bird flew to a limb on a tree about 40 feet high without much effort. Unfortunately, owing to my having to catch a train at Warragul, which I heard whistling out of Drouin, I could not wait to see how the Jackass despatched his prey. — M.C. Leckie, Inspector of Board of Public Health, Mel- bourne. * * * " A Key to the Birds of Australia."— Referring to Mr. T. Carter's criticism in the last issue,* Mr. Robert Hall intended no discourtesy in holding over publication of the suggestions of Mr. Carter, meaning that they should in twelve months' time form the basis of a supplement to the distribution in areas 9, 8, I, as collectors were in the field. The supplement is as under, being mainly from the published report of Dr. Ernst Hartert, • Ldui, vii., p. 9y. 156 Stray Feathers. Emu r Emi List J Novt'^. Zoo/., 1905 ; by Mr. Collingwood Ingram, Idz's, July, 1907 ; by Mr. Carter, £mu (last issue), partly a repeat of ISiovit. ZooL, 1905 ; and by Mr. Hall himself, in Emu, through collections made by Mr. J. P. Rogers. Certain of these are now on record for the first time. With regard to Mr. Carter's correc- tion of "black pectoral collar" in PacJiycephala giiberti {Go\x\d), the error appears in the Brit. Mus. Cat. Birds, vol. viii., p. 184, and, unfortunately, found its way into the " Key," remaining uncorrected till Mr. Carter observed it. Mr. Carter's list showed 56 species in areas 9 and 8, thus totalling 132 species in areas 9, 8, I (31 species appearing in area i). Species. Areas. 4 •• 9 8 .. I 13 •• 8 16 .. I i8a.. . 9 (not 8) 22 .. I 26 .. I 36 .. 8 40 .. 8 44 •■ 9 44A.. . 8 67 .. 8 75 •• 8 80 .. 8 81 .. 9 89 .. I 93 •• I 104 .. 8 II2A.. . 8 122 .. 9, I 126 .. 9 ^ii ■■ I 139 •• I 141 .. 8 180 .. 8(N.W. Cape) 195 •• 8 (N.W. Cape) 214 .. 9 229 .. 9 230 .. 9 236 .. . 8 237 .. . I 242 .. • 8,9 247A.. . I 255 •• . I 264 .. . 8,9 289 .. . 8 295 .. . 8 296 .. . 8 30s .. ■ 8,9 3>8 .. . 1 3'9 •• . 8 345 ■• . I 347 1,8,9 5(^7 .. . I Specie 373 375 381 388 389 390 393 394 404 408 409 422 429 430 437 438 441 449 453 488 492 505 507 521 533 546 547 550 552 557 558 560 562 572 574 579 595 596 598 599 602 603 607 608 Cape Cape Areas. 8 I N.W. N.W. 8, I I 8 8, I 9: 1 8 8 8 8 8, 9 9 8, 1 9 I 9, 8 (N.W. Cape) 9 I I ' 2 or 3 9 8 9 9, 8 (N.W. Cape) 8 9 8 9 9 9 8 9 8 I 9,8 9, I 1 8 9 9, 8 (N.W. Cape) 9, 8 (N.W. Cape; Species. 609 .. 6io .. 611 .. 612 .. 614 .. 615 .. 620 .. 621 .. 622 .. 628 .. 640 .. 643 •• 644 .. 645 .. 646 .. 647 .. 648 .. 650 .. 652 .. 655 .. 659 .. 703 ■• 704 .. 705 .. 706 .. 716 .. 717 .. 718 .. 720 .. 725 .. 727 .. 728 .. 729 .. 73^ .. 733 .. 735 .. 736 .. 739 .. 745 .. 755 .- 759 ■• 760 .. 761 .. 764 .. Areas. 9, 8 (N.W. Cape) 9 8 8 9 9 8 I I 8 8 9,8 9, 8 (N.W. Cape) 9, 8 (N.W Cape) 9, 8 8, I 9, 8 (N.W. Cape) 8 9 8 9 8 8 9 9 9 8, I 9. 8 9 9, 8 9 I I 9,8 8 8 9,8 9, 8 (N.W. Cape) 9 9 9 I I I 8 v°'^-_^^g"-] stray Feathers. I57 I use this opportunity to include in the " Key," area 5, the following species :-^29, 6y, 183, 235, 265, 392,463 — to be marked as resident or visiting birds I do not know. Evidently I quite overlooked including 265, as recorded in Colonel Legge's list. The following may be marked as having been observed in areas 2, 3, 4, 6, while further additions will be noted in Mr. North's work, now in the press. Certain of these records were the observations of Mr. S. W. Jackson, communicated to me, the bulk of the remainder having already appeared in The Emu, There still remain other records to be collected. Specie>:. Areas. Species. Areas. Species. Areas 5' 2 286 6 463 4 52 3 296 2 487 6 65 3 307 '.'. 6 525 6 102 4 348 4 527 4 113 3 353 6 597 6 117 6 354 6 616 6 156 . 3 358 . 3 644 6 160 6 365 . 6 651 6 186 6 375 3 754 6 205 6 412 6 Certain of the birds, under varying climatic conditions, change for a time their stations, and in the droughty spring of this year we have much evidence of it. The eruption of species from the dry areas into the coastal areas may well be recorded, but for irregular rather than permanent residence. — Robert Hall. 10/10/07. Queer Nesting Places. — Three weeks ago, while driving into the outskirts of Stawell, a town of 6,000 inhabitants, a little Black-fronted Dottrel {Aigialitis nigrifrons) was seen to rise from some pebbles and run off. A clutch of three eggs was found placed on the hard stones not 2 feet away from the wheel track, where scores of vehicles passed daily. In fact, the rubble had been put by roadmenders into a rut, but passing drivers, as is often the case, avoided it. Whether the daring little bird will successfully rear a family in such surroundings is hard to say. A much more suitable nesting place could be found along the margin of a small lake in the public gardens not many yards away. The same day, while visiting a farm- house, I was surprised to hear a Brown Tree-creeper {Climactens scandens) scramble up the hessian lining of a room and out through a hole in the outside wall. It had a nest in the bottom corner containing several young ones. — A. G. Campbell. Pomonal, near Stawell, 12/12/07. * * * Scone (N.S.W.) Notes. — On the 9th October I took three slightly incubated eggs of the Butcber-Bird {Cracticus destructor) from a nest in a small yellow box tree, 20 feet from ground ; 158 Stray Feathers. [,,f7^„. on the 14th November I noticed a pair of fresh eggs of the Bron/.e-wing Pigeon {Pliaps cJiakoptera) in the same nest. On the loth October I took one fresh q:^% of the Goshawk {Astnr aphroxiinans)\ on the 15th November I took one heavily incu- bated ^zs^ and one addled ^^^ of same bird from the same nest. The White-browed {Artamus superciliosus) and Masked {Arta- n?us persoiiatiis) Wood-Swallows are now visiting us in thous- ands, and placing their nests in all sorts of curious places. The Dollar-Bird {Enrystomus austrah's), usually very plentiful here in summer, is very scarce this season ; I know of one pair only in the vicinity. Friar-Birds or Leatherheads {Philewoii corniailaUis) are breeding very freely ; the same applies to the Pied Crow-Shrike [Strepera gracuHna). I never knew Ephthianura ^/(^//"r^wj- so plentiful before ; they have been breeding since June. I saw one full clutch of four eggs. I have seen one only Scyihrops novce-hoUnndicE this season ; this bird is usually plentiful here. On the i8th September, at Belltrees, found an eg;^ of the Black-eared Cuckoo {Misocalius paVioIatiis) in the nest of the Little Field-Wren {ChtJioiiicoIa sagittatd) along with a pair of eggs of the last-named bird. — H. L. W?IITE. 17/1 1/07. Launceston (Tasmania) Notes. — While returning from a long ramble down the banks of the Tamar, at the end of October, I was fortunate enough to come upon a small party of five Sandpipers or Sharp-tailed Stints {Heteropygia aainimatn), feeding quietly upon a little mud-bank at the edge of a swamp. They were by no means wild, and allowed me to approach within a few yards before taking wing with their plaintive cry. This was within a mile of Launceston Post-Office, which is unusually close to town for these long-distance migrants to appear. The same afternoon I heard great numbers of Grass- Birds {Megahirus graiiiineus) uttering their weird little calls, and saw one or two. This interesting little bird, although shy in the sense of keeping itself out of sight, yet does not at all object to the proximity of human beings, so long as there is cover for concealment. One is calling frequently in a thin patch of reeds close to the Tamar ferry, just opposite the wharf, and with people passing to and fro within a ^cw yards ; there are dozens in the reeds alongside a footpath which caps the embankment. I have frequently brought them up almost to my feet by imitating their call, and then have not been able to see them, owing to the thick growth of reeds. The call is usually a plaintive double whistle, hut some individuals use three or even four notes instead of the usual two. The Reed-Warblers {Acrocephalus mistralis) were much in evidence that same day, flying excitedly from the dense growth of the riverside into the wattle trees, then chasing each other Vol. Igos""! ^^""^y Feathers. 1 59 from the trees back into the reeds. I noticed they have a harsh, somewhat guttural call note, not unlike one occasionally employed by the Crescent Honey-eater when a cat or other enemy is in the vicinity. The beautiful Canary-like song of this waterside dweller was heard unusually early this spring ; when Mr. Thompson and myself were crossing the North Esk on 22nd September on our way to the bush, one of these songsters was heard in the dry reeds of last season close to the Butts Bridge ; usually we do not notice them until well on in October, and they do not nest here until November. Like the Grass-Bird, they have no objection to the proximity of our species provided there is cover, and their rich warble may be heard close to the railway sheds, with trains passing and repassing, and the dense engine smoke flying over their haunts. — H. Stuart Dove. From MagazineSt &c. "A Trip to Mount Arthur" is a pleasant account of a nature study outing undertaken by Messrs. H. Stuart Dove, F.Z.S., and H. C. Thompsom, A.O.U., to the Lilydale district of Tasmania, where a number of birds was noted. The notes are published in 7"//t' £",t'(^w/;/^r (Launceston), 19/ 11/07. Birds of Spencer Gulf. — Mr. J. W. Mellor, one of the vice- presidents of the A.O.U., has contributed to TJie Evening Journal, Adelaide (18/5/07), a popular account of the birds he noted on the islands about the Gulf during an excursion by members of the Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science, January, 1907. Birds of Boroondara. — Under tlie title of" Some Birds of Hawthorn District," Mr. C. F. Cole, A.O.U., has contributed a short but interesting article to The Victorian Naturalist (vol. xxiv.. No. 5). Having been born and reared in the district, besides being a close observer of bird-life, Mr. Cole's records, especially "old-time memories" are valuable. Partridge-Pigeons. — In The Avicultural Magazine (vol. v., No. 10, New Series), Mr. D. Seth-Smith, F.Z.S., contributes aviary observations on the two species of " Squatter Pigeons " forming the genus Geophaps. Because of their terrestrial and other habits, Mr. Seth-Smith does not agree with any attempt to separate these birds from their natural order Columbai. l5o From Magazines, drc. y^^^ Emu Jan. " The Tasmanian Naturalist." — The Tasmanian Field Naturalists' Club is to be commended in starting a journal of its own. Part No. 2 of vol. i. contains an account of a camp- out of the Club on Bruni Island, Easter, 1906. Several birds seen during the trip are enumerated. "Tasmanian Quail and Gafne Propogation (with Illustrations) " is a short article by Mr. A. R. Reid, A.O.U., in which he advocated the rearing and better protection of Quail. Mr. Reid's suggestions are practical, * * * "Feathered Immigrants" is the title of a Bulletin (No. 16) issued by Department of Agriculture, New Zealand, and compiled by Mr. James Drummond. It contains evi- dence for and against introduced birds to the Dominion of New Zealand, together vnth " Notes on the Native Avi- fauna." It is deplorable to read some of the causes assigned for the disappearance of the native birds : " De- struction of bush," " poisoned grain, stoats, weasels, and guns," "shooting and lack of protection, "indiscriminate shoot- ing," "cats," "sportsmen," "settlement and introduced birds," "all nesting places being occupied by introduced birds," " constant use of the gun," " shooting out of season," " shooting out of season by the Maoris," " allowing boys to carry guns," "Cockney sportsmen," " ' kill-in-any-position ' shooter," "burn- ing of the bush, wilful destruction of eggs by boys, ravages of cats, and slaughter of waterfowl on the first days of the shooting season," &c , &c. Pl.^tycercus adelaid.'E in England. — The Adelaide Rosellas are not unlike immature Pennants (P. eleoovs) just finishing the moult and not in full plumage. Mr. W. R. Fasey once bought a pair of immature Pennants which the dealer at the time declared were " Adelaides." The "Adelaides" were given an aviary in which only two other small birds resided — a pair of Parrot-Finches — and he had nothing of interest to relate for a few weeks till he saw that they were nesting, and finally four young ones left the nest and flew about. Their markings were like those of their parents excepting that the ground colour was of a more greenish shade. Mr. Fasey considers the red marks quite as distinct as the parents'. Mr. Fasey's other birds nested very freely this year, and he had quite a number of young ones. One interesting Parra- keet was a hybrid whose parents were a hen Princess of Wales Parrakeet and a male Rock-Pebbler, and he hopes soon to rear some young Blue-banded Grass-Parrakeets. — Avicidttiral Magazine, New Series, vol. v., No. 11. ^'°|-Jg"-] From Magazines, ^c. l6l National Parks. — " Fauna and Flora Reserves in Austra- lasia " was the subject of a thoughtful lecture by Mr. Bernard H. Woodward, F.C.S., delivered before the Western Australian Natural History Society on 29th May, 1907. Mr. Woodward's remarks are chiefly in substance the historical enactments in the respective States regarding national reserves, and will serve a good end by directly keeping the cause of bird protection to the fore. Rut if we are to have proper bird preserves or re- serves we must undoubtedly have those preserves also properly protected by paid wardens, as in America. Anent this matter, an influential deputation* is about to wait on the Hon. the Minister of Lands, Victoria, regarding the reservation of Wilson Promontory. The bulk of the Promontory has been reserved, but a ^-mile foreshore surrounding the park has only been temporarily reserved. The deputation intends to seek favourable consideration — (i) that the whole be reserved for all time, and (2) that a paid ranger be put in charge. A ranger is an absolute necessity, because, even since the locality has been " proclaimed," it is an open secret that 'possum poachers (in close season) and timber fellers have been at their destroying work. Native Birds Protection Association. — A meeting of the Central Queensland Native Birds Protection Association was held at the Belmore Arms Hotel on Thursday week. It was decided to engage a ranger to put a stop to illegal shooting, and bring before the courts those found guilty of such an act. As this will mean considerable expense, the secretary was directed to make a vigorous effort to get in subscriptions. It was remarked that if members had their own interests at heart there should be no difficulty in getting in the money, as it is acknowledged that before the formation of the association there was practically no close season, and were the association to become defunct, the same state of things would prevail again, in which case there would, in a very short time, be no such thing as a game bird in the district. A great many persons, it was also stated, reaped the benefit of the efforts of the association to give the birds six months for breeding by getting six months' good sport, and yet they would not join the association. Probably the fact that last season was a particularly bad one from a sportsman's point of view had a good deal to do with the •Consisting of delegates from the National Museum, Australian Natives' Associ- ation, Royal Society, Royal Geographical Society, Field Naturalists' Club, Zoological and Acclimatisation Society, Piscatorial Council, and Australasian Ornithologists' Union. The Minister, who was sympathetic, has lieen interviewed. He promised to recommend a paid ranger, but was of opinion that tlie "temporary reserve" of the t^-mile foreshore would have to stand. However, the deputation's object would be attained if shooting and hunting were not permitted within the |^-mile limit, as it is in the National Paik proper. l62 Prom Magazines, 6rc. [isf'jan. apathy displayed. At the same time, a majority of the members deprecated the evident beh'ef of some connected with the association that its principal duty was to find shooting for them — a misunderstanding which might be harmful. The object of the association, it was pointed out, was to enforce a strict observance of the close season and so give birds of all species which were protected a chance to breed and ensure them- selves against extermination. — Morning Bulletin (Rockhampton), 15/11/07. » * * Mallee (Victoria) Notes. — " Nature Notes " in The Argus, 6/9/07, records the following interesting field observa- tions by " Mallee Bird " (Mr. Chas. M'Lennan) :— " Quails Nesting. — A friend of mine has just come in from the 'Sunset' country, which is situate some 50 odd miles north-west of Pine Plains, and he informed me that Quails — no doubt the Brown and the Little Swift-flying, for I saw them there myself about six weeks ago — are now nesting in vast numbers all over the plain. " All the Cuckoos — Pallid, Fan-tailed, Bronze, and Black- eared — arrived here this month (August). The Kestrel and White-shouldered Lalage also came. I saw on the ground a splendid flock of Black-faced Graucalus the other day. There must have been fully 3C0 of them. These are useful birds, for they were feeding upon caterpillars or grubs, which now are rather numerous among the green herbage. My enemies, the Crows and Ravens, do a lot of good in this respect, for they are now to be seen in dozens feeding upon some of the pests. " Crows and Plover. — I was an eye-witness the other day to a Black-breasted Plover defending its nest, containing four eggs, against the attack of two Crows. The Crows seemed deter- mined to obtain possession of the eggs. While the Plover fought in a most desperate manner with one of the Crows, the other snapped up an &^^ and made good its escape to enjoy its prize. A bullet from my rifle settled matters as far as the other Crow was concerned. These black rascals destroy a lot of eggs of Plovers and other birds. "Chestnut-backed Thrush {Cindosovia castanonotuvi). — I have been watching the antics or habits of the Chestnut-backed Thrush a lot of late, and have seen a good many of the birds in my rambles. These birds do not associate with any other of the feathered tribe. They live for the most part in couples, which presumably pair for life, subsisting upon the insects and other food to be found in the vicinity of their favourite haunts — the low shrubs and undergrovvths in the arid regions of the Mallee. Being of a rather' shy nature, they do not wander far from the same neighbourhood. The characteristic feature of these birds is the peculiar graceful motion they have of moving ^■^•^•Jg"] From Magazines, &c. 1 63 their heads and necks backwards and forwards when standing on the watch. The nest is always built on the ground, near the butt of a mallee bush or under some low shrub. The clutch is from one to three. When flushed, the bird flies but a short distance, and again settles. It resembles in some of its habits the Scrub-Robin {Dryuunvdiis brunncopyginsX' * * * The Cuckoo.— Mr. Gordon Dalgleish, a well-known British observer, contributes to the October number of TJie Avicultural Magazine some interesting notes on the Cuckoo {Cucuhis canoriis). The author claims no originality for his notes, nevertheless he records certain observations which appear to add something to our knowledge of these "birds of mystery" as regards their parasitic habits. The question whether instinct or reason is responsible for the Cuckoo's practice of laying her eggs in the nests of other birds is treated with caution by the author, but he says: — " That a bird should save itself the trouble of catering for and looking after a family is, 1 think, sufficient proof of cunning and deep thought, and not want of intellect." Mr. Dalgleish also believes that Cuckoos are guilty of eating the eggs of other birds. He states that he once saw an Indian Cuckoo [Eudynaims honorata) rob a Dove's nest, and fly off with the o.^^ in its bill, hotly pursued by the owner. Referring to the Cuckoo's power of matching its eggs with those of the different birds selected as foster-parents, the author gives instances which have come under his own notice, and quotes from The Countryside {yo\. iii., No. 68) a letter written by Mr. Gillett Cory, who states, inter alia, that he has examined sixteen nests, each containing a Cuckoo's &^g of different species of birds with their respective clutches of eggs. In every case the Cuckoo's z^^ could scarcely be distinguished from those of the intended foster-parent, even the most delicate markings being closely imitated. Mr. Dalgleish raises an interesting point—" Does the male Cuckoo first find the nest in which the female is to place her o.^^ ? " He answers the question in the affirmative, but more confirmation is required than the evidence he adduces before any definite conclusion can be arrived at. The v/riter states, again, that there is one instance on record {Ibis, 1889, p. 219) of the European Cuckoo hatching its own eggs, and he thinks it probable that at times young Cuckoos, after leaving the nest, are tended by the true mother or other Cuckoos. This opens a wide field for investigation, and Australian observers should lose no opportunity of gathering evidence in support or otherwise of the theor)\ Returning to the question of protective resemblance in the eggs, Mr. Dalgleish concludes that one of the possible reasons for the dissimilarity that sometimes exists between eggs of a Cuckoo and foster-parents is that the Cuckoo has only at a comparatively recent period realised the importance of matching its eggs with those of its victims. l64 ■ ' . Reviews: [,,f7,„. Reviews. [" How to Sex Cage Birds (British and Foreign)." By Arthur C. Butler, Ph.D., F.L.S. F.Z.S.. M.B.O.U., &c., &c. With over fifty ilhistrations and four coloured plates. ' The Feathered World. Canary and Cas;e-Bird Life. 9 Arundel -street. Strand, London. N.C.] Dr. Butler has added another important work to his already long list of useful books, most of which are familiar to Australians. "How to Sex Cage Birds" will not only be of value to the aviculturists, but also to ornithologists, both field and cabinet. The author's own appreciation of his work is modestly put thus : — " The object of the present work is to enable owners of birds to decide to what sex they belong, and I hope that the labour which I have expended upon the study of external sexual differ- ences, embodied in the ensuing chapters, will prove useful not .only to the student of birds in captivity, but of cabinet specimens. Primarily, I naturally offer it as a sort of vade mecuin for the use of aviculturists, and should it only be of assistance to them, I shall feel amply repaid for the time and trouble which I have expended in its production." The present work treats of over 900 species of birds, many of of which are Australian — notably Cockatoos, Parrakeets, and Finches. However, Dr. Butler's remarks are brief in connection with the Pink or Leadbeater Cockatoo {Cacatua leadbeateri). He will find, in nature, that the male bird has a black eye, while that of the female is brownish. In the Rose Cockatoo or Galah {C. roseicapilla) the male also has a black eye, but in the female it is of a pearl-like colour. With reference to the Indian Banded Parrakeet {Pahvornis fasciatd), Australian avi- culturists who have kept the bird are of opinion that both sexes, when mature, possess red bills. The bill is dark in young birds, and commences to turn red with the first moult. Among the illustrations is a taxidermist's group of Laughing Jackasses (Dacelo ^(^as) from a photograph by Messrs. Kerry, Sydney. Price 3s. 6d. ["From Range to .Sea: a Bird Lover's Ways." By Charles Barrett. T. C. Lothian, Melbourne.] This "Christmas pamphlet" includes a preface by Mr. Donald Macdonald and many photo.-pictures from nature by Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley. Mr. Barrett (who, by the way, is a member of the A.O.U.^ is to be heartily congratulated on his maiden effort at publishing nature notes. Judging simply by this booklet, Mr. Barrett has a great future before him as a nature observer and writer. The publishing price of " From Range to Sea" is one shilling. Vol. VII. .- IQOS , Correspondence. i6' Correspondence. SYNCECUS AUSTRALLS IN NEW ZEALAND. To the Editors of " TJie Eni/i.'" Sirs, — Under this heading, on pp. 104, 105 of the last number of The Emu appears a note to the effect that Mr. D. Seth-Smith, in The Aviciiltural Magazine, has discovered that this bird is not uncommon in the North Island of New Zealand. The note in The Emu commenting upon this asks the follow- ing questions : — " Have cage birds been taken to and liberated in New Zealand, or have wild birds emigrated across the Tasman Sea } " Synoeciis australts was introduced by the settlers, but when and where I can't trace, as no records of the earliest efforts at acclimatisation were kept. However, in 1871, when Captain Hutton published his " Birds of New Zealand," he included a " List of Birds Introduced by Settlers." In this list (p. 66) there appears — " Coturnix australis. Lath. All the provinces. From Tasmania." Later, when treating of the supposed survival of the New Zealand Quail upon the Three Kings, the late Sir Walter Buller wrote (Trans. N.Z. Inst., vol. xxiv., p. 1,891 (1892)) : — "But of Syncecus australis, the Brown Quail of Australia, which has been introduced into New Zealand, and is now extremely plentiful in all parts of the country." On p. 348 of the "Index Faunae Novae-Zealandiae " (1904) appears Synceais australis, Lathrades (Swamp Quail), Australia. This is in an Appendix, the title of which is " List of Natural- ised Animals," the explanation of which reads : — " This list includes those animals which have been introduced, either intentionally or unintentionally, by human agencies, and have become so well established that they may be considered as part of the fauna." I have collated these three references simply to show that to New Zealand students the occurrence of Synoecus australis is a well-known fact, and has been for nearly forty years. That it should be termed " an interesting discovery," and be worth recording by Australians, seems to me surprising. — I am, &c., TOM IREDALE. Christchurch, N.Z., ist Nov., 1907. P.S. — Since writing the above the '■ Transactions of the N.Z. Institute for 1906 "has been received. On p. 508 the dates of introduction of birds now acclimatised are given, and for the bird under notice read : — " Auckland, 1867 ; Christchurch, 1866 ; Green Island, near Dunedin, 1868 and 1870." — T.I. l66 Correspondence. [.sf"jan- To the Editors of " T/ie £11111!' Sirs,— In the last number of 77ic Emu (page 104, vol. vii.), you ask — " Have cage birds (of Syncccns australis) been taken to and liberated in New Zealand, or have wild birds emigrated ? " On page 127 of The Ibis for January, 1893, occurs the following sentence : — " It is very unsatisfactory to learn that the supposed bevies of the New Zealand Quail (Coturnix nov(£-zealandi(E) asserted to have been recently met with in the Three Kings Islands {cf. Birds N.Z., i., p. 228, footnote), turn out to belong to the Brown Quail {Syucecus australis), introduced from Australia, and that the native species is undoubledly extinct." — I am, &c., TOM CARTER. Broome Hill (VV.A.), 28th Oct., 1907. Bird Observers^ Club. The September meeting of the Club was held at the residence of Dr. H. W. Bryant, Toorak. There were present Messrs. Cole, Campbell, Chandler, Howe, Mattingley, Ross, Barrett, Nicholls, and Surgeon-General Williams. Apologies were received from Messrs. G. Shepherd, R. Hall, Spowers, Batey, and Dr. Home. The subject for discussion was " Cuckoos." Mr. Christian, of Raywood, forwarded some field notes, and Mr. Batey, of Drouin (Vic), contributed a paper. Can Cuckoos time the extrusion of the egg? was an interesting point raised by Mr. Mattingley. Mr. Cole exhibited a young Cuckoo {C. pallidus) reaied in nest of White-plumed Honey-eater {Piilotis penicillata). Skins of Dryniaccdiis brunneipyoia^ Pardalotus xanthopygius., P. oriiatus, Mahirus 7/ieianotui\ Pachycephala gilbcrti, and Cificlor'haviplius rufcscens were exhibited by Messrs. Mattingley, Ross, and Howe, obtained by them in the Mallee scrubs. Dr. Bryant exhibited many beautiful forms of aquatic birds. Mr. J. N. Tregallas was elected a member, on the motion of Mr. J. A. Ross, seconded by Mr. A. J. Campbell. It was resolved that the hon. secretary write congratulating Mr. Robert Hall on his obtaining the curatorship to the Hobart Museum. After supper a hearty vote of thanks to the host terminated a pleasant and interesting meeting. On i6th October the Club met at the residence of Surgeon-General Williams, when fourteen members were present. Apologies were received from Messrs. Campbell, Christian, liatey, Barrett, and Nicholls. The host was voted to the chair. The subject for discussion was " Herons." Two country members (Messrs. Batey and Christian) sent notes. Mr. Cole exhibited three mounted specimens of the Night-Heron {Nycticorav calcdonicus) — two in immature plumage, and one adult male in beautiful feather. Mr. Mattingley exhibited a clutch of four eggs of the Plumed Egret {Mcsophoyx pluniifcra). This bird is apparently rare, and he and Mr. Ross share the honour of taking the first authentic clutch. Surgeon- General Williams exhibited many beautiful forms too numerous to individualise here, but one case, containing Night-Herons, White-fronted and Pacific Herons, White and Plumed Egrets, and Bitterns, was specially admired by the visiting members. After supper the host took members through his well-appointed rooms, and delighted them with his many fine curios, works of art, native implements, &c. The quarterly dinner of the Club was held at the Mia-Mia Tea Rooms, Collins-street, Melbourne, 20th November. There were present Messrs. ^°';J5^'-] Bird Observers Club. l()y Campbell, Hall, Ross, Mattingley, Dr. Bryant, Wilson, Leach, Williams, Thompson, Barrett, Nicholls, Hamilton, Mellor (Adelaide), Cole, Chandler, Tregallas, and Howe (hon. secretary). After dinner a number of visitors arrived. Mr. Campbell was elected to till the chair. Apologies were received from Messrs. Godfrey, Shepherd, and Macdonald. The chairman read a letter from Mr Le Souiif, who was then in London. Mr. Le Souef was present as a guest at a meeting of the British Ornithologists' Club, where he met Mr. C. F. Belcher, another member. Besides domg other good work, Mr. Le Souef was instrumental in unearthing two skins of the extinct Tasmanian Emu at the British Museum. The find has delighted the authorities as well as Mr. Le Souef. The bird was distinct from the mainland form of Emu. The chairman, in welcoming Mr. Mellor, as guest, paid high tribute to his zeal in matters pertaining to ornithology. Mr. Mellor, in responding, earnestly urged members to do their utmost for the preservation of our avifauna, which was being ruthlessly destroyed everywhere. Mr. J. A. Ross read a paper entitled " A Trip to the Mallee." The journey was taken by himself, Mr. Mattingley, and the hon. secretary during September. The paper was well received, and was beautifully illustrated by photographs taken by Mr. Mattingley. Many of the pictures depicted Mr. Charles M'Lennan (well known to bird lovers by his contributions as " Mallee Bird"), who acted as guide to the party. Dr. Bryant moved a vote of thanks to Mr. Ross, who gracefully replied- in a few well-chosen words. The ordinary (December) meeting of the Club was held at the Thistle Luncheon Rooms, Elizabeth-street, Melbourne. At the invitation of Mr. Robert Hall, there were present Messrs. F. P. and R. P. Godfrey, Campbell, Ross, Mattingley, Leach, Barrett, Nicholls, Chandler, Cole, Thompson, Tregallas, and Howe. Apologies were received from Messrs. Shepherd, Christian, and Batey, and papers were received from the two last-named gentlemen. The exhibits were plentiful and varied, Mr. Ross showing combination (Cuckoo) clutches — Rliipidura albiscapa with C. JlabelUforinis.^ and Pycnoptilus Jloccosus with C. variolosus (?). He also exhibited a nest of Pycnoptilus taken in sword-grass {Lepidosperma). Mr. Cole's exhibits were adults and young of Cinclorliauiphus riijescens and a nest of Ptilotis peiiicillata showing &