forse —F, as : 3 * ” rire “oo em me ‘soe ee ee ee ee ee eb , N . . ? f * + 2-9 Oe ae Se 8 8 ee : Hee 6 8 at opie gee a os € 6 6 & we a ee © Sete * Ai eee ese » et ee LIBRARY OF THE MUSEUM OF COMPARATIVE ZOOLOGY. ) 9) Brught Jomuanp IL. I9 8. i 192) VICTORIAN THE JOURNAL & MAGAZINE | ; a -_ OF THR tPIAN_ Ilo Ontleed Viel Natuealists’ Club af Victoria : K i i & f é VOL. L. JANUARY 1884 TO APRIL 1885. The Author of each Article is responsible for the facts and © opinions he records. South Melbourne: J. C. MITCHELL, PRINTER, CLARENDON STREET. 1885. 4 iF i) ng hi re ; a) GES ae Ym eT Oe a Wie yy Gi ray 44 AWY ae i a Wh in } Ads ca INDEX TO VICTORIAN NATURALIST. VOL. PAGE Alga, Fresh Water - 21 Anecdotes of Seals a) 508) Animal Intelligence - 96 Another Scotch Naturalist 130 Australian Talking Birds 80 Bailey, The late J. F. - 59 Ballarat Field Club Ho, 70 Baw-Baw, Fungi of Mt 169 Birds, List of Victorian 64, 74 Birds, Protection of Native 32 Book, Nests and Eggs of Australian Birds - 32 Botanical Notes 15, 51, 101, 122 Bryophyllum - - 102 Latouria - = : 81 Rhododendron - = ji Sanseviera ot en sy Scevola - = = UEP “Camp out” at Olinda Creek - = ee lal) Correspondence 8, 15, 24, 32, 68, 80, 132. Early Flowering of Plants - =») (xs) Entomology - = hl Postal Microscopical Society ~ = 116) Sparrows - - 132 Snakes, Suicide of - 32 Dandenong Ranges, Outing at - = as) Double Flowers - - 50 Eucalyptus, Classification of 30 Excursions, 83, 98, 110, 112 @heeahan = = 8B Frankston = Oey, Lily Olinda Creek - = il) Exhibition, Intercolonial 18 Fauna of Victoria:— Mammalia - 12 Birds = i Reptiles - - - 86 lig PAGE Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria :— Annual Conversazione, Fourth = = BS Annual Report - 47 President’s Address - 35 Proceedings, Monthly Meetings, 2, 9,17, 25, 45, 46, 57, “69. ols SP 109. 121, 133, 157, 181 Special Meeting - 122 Fiji and New Caledonia, Trip to =) toy) bse) Frankston, Club Excursion to - - 98, 112 Fungi of Mt. Baw-Baw = 169 Griffiths’ Point, Visit to 182 Introduction = = il Kilcunda Coal Mine - 184 Lepidoptera of Month - 6 Lyre-Birds, Notes on - 105 Mallee Hens, Notes on- 124 Mammalia, List of Victorian 12 Microscopical Work on Vegetal Tissues - 10 Murray, Tri ip to Upper 134, 158 New Caledonia and Fiji, Trip to = 895 Kod New Guinea, Plants from 167 Obituary, junta di. TE Bailey - - 59 Olinda Creek, Camp out 110 Oology :— Australian Birds = 103 Victorian Cuckoos - 16 Orchids of Victoria, 3, 21, 53, 59, 115, 131. Calochilus = = NG Cryptostylis - = aug) Dendrobium = - Bhs Dipodium - - 53 Diuris ss - = =n Nie Gastrodia a =. 4 ( Continued.) INDEX PAGE Orchids of Victoria:— Orthoceras - - 118 Prasophyllum - 119, 131 Sarcochilus = - - 53 Spiranthes - - 59 Thely mitra - - 099 Outing at Dandenong Ranges - EMD Parrakeet, Notes on Warbling Grass - 132 Phanerogams of Studley Park = = 4 Wee Phytography of Victoria Podopetallum = 5 Platypus, Noteson - 87 Plants from New Guinea 167 Procellarinze or Petrels, Notes on - - - 176 Protection of Native Birds i61 PAGE Ranunculacee of Victoria, thes - = 19 Reptilia, List of Victorian 66 Scotch Naturalist, Another 130 Seals, Anecdotes of - 79 Snakes, Tasmanian = - 83 Snakes, Victorian Venomous 26 Studley Park, Phanerogams of = = Shoe Tasmanian Snakes, Notes on. - - - §3 Victorian Birds - 64, 74 Mammals ov te Reptiles - 86 Snakes 24) BS Warbling Grass Parrakeet, Notes on - sae! Ce - Wasps, West Australian 8, 2+ West Australian Wasps 8, 24 THE : * Dictarian Uatuealist: THE JOURNAL AND ‘MAGAZINE JANUARY ISS. Field Naturalists’ Club of Vict toria, s; Litroduetion > 3 a Proceedings of the Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria. "The Orchidez of Victoria. By CO. Frexcn, (First Paper) Contributions to the Phytography of “Australia. By Baron Sir F. von Muetumr, K.6-M.G., BRSS S| < = Kutomology : Notes ou = — mdoptera of t! Uk Dr. -T. P.: Lucas / iESPONDENCE ;. Western Ausura’: , horny when dry ; radicle very short, next tu the hilum. To this information can now be added, that Podopetalum Ormondi forms a tree, attaining about fifty feet in height, the bark of the stem being smooth and greyish. It seems to be flowering and fruiting ‘through many months, as both blossoms and pods were got in December. This seems an apt opportunity to point out, that the genus Jieillardia is perhaps not combinable with Castanosperi mum, inasmuch as the leaves are abruptly pinnate, according to manu- script-notes received by the writer from the Abbe Montrouzier, although species with impari-pinnated and abruptly pinnate leaves are contained in Ormosia, according to Bentham. and Hooker. The Veillardia grandiflora, from “the isle Art near New Caledonia, must be an extremely showy plant, Montrouzier describing the flowers as numerous (-16) in a bunch, and to to) each from one and a-half to two inches lone. ENTOMOLOGY. LEPIDOPTERA OF THE MONTH, By Dr: Tb: voices: DIUBRNI—tThe first brood of Papilio Mackayi is nearly over, and it is difficult to obtain good specimens. ‘The second brood may be expected at the end of February or the beginning of March. Preris AGAntppr, the larvie of which were in December so numerous on the Wild Cherry (Exocarpus), is now emerging from the erysalis. THE Browns.— Xenia Klugii swarms everywhere, and X Aclanta in the Ranges and near the Yarra. The first brood of Hipparchia abroma is about over. It is found in upland shady places. Tue Brurs.—Lycoena crinus may now be taken in shady woods at Hawthorn, about the Yarra, and in South Gippsland. THER VICTORIAN NATURALIST ite | An allied form, taken by Mr. F. &pry. early in September at Brighton, has been found sparingly at Longwarry, by Mr, A. H. 8. Lucas. Li. Pheebe is common everywhere by the roadsides. Li. Agricola should be taken sparingly at Brighton. x ‘ found this species recently emerged in November a Myrtleford, Polyommatus beeticus this year is coloured more brilliantly > than usual. It oceurs plentifully at Cheltenham, and may be caught in the gardens of the suburbs. It has been taken once or twiee near Plymouth, England, and is a common form on the continent of Europe. Jackmenus evagorans, so abundant at Lilydale in December, is still on the wing. Mr. Dixon captured another species this month, with vermilion bars and dots on the under surface of both wings, also near Lilydale. Tay Sxrppers.Several are now flying. Telesto eclipsis -may be taken in the Dandenong and South Gippsland : ranges. T. flammeata may be looked for in the same localities. Taractrocera papyrea is still common at Brighton in damp places. : MOTHS.— One of the Hawk Moths, Cheerocampa scrofa, was m taken by my boys on blackberry flowers at dusk at | Healesville. The giant Endoxylon eucalypti may still be collected on the trunks of the gum trees and on fences in the day time. On the fences, too, the mimetic Hyperchromis ocularia I have found a form allied to the latter, conspicuous by y the longitudinal in place of transverse lines on the upper surface. : Ardicis fulvo-hista may now be taken on trunks of trees or | among grass about Melbourne, but more freely in the oy ranges. Panagra aurinaria is now coming out in upland well-timbered paddocks. Manga oigantella i is to be seen on wattles or other herbage. The beautiful Cosmodes i elegans may occasionally be startled out of the grass. x Plusia argentifera flies around flowers at dusk. This species d and P. verticillata (Golden Y), are representative, and 1 have the habits of very closely allied English forms. : Another form analogous to the English Drinker in habits is : Savala ocellata. Swarms of the ‘larvee have been feeding on the grass in the Melbourne parks, and the imago is ine now coming out from the pupa. 8 THE ViCTORIAN NATURALIST Drymania dimidiata is common on fences. The larve often destroys cereal crops wholesale, eating all before it. The second brood of one of our Thorn Moths, Macaria Beco ea, Var. frontaria, is now to be had everywhere The males and females are so unlike, as often to be mis- taken for distinct species. The females are darker and blotehed, the males lighter and spotted. Another Thorn ae varies remark ably i in colour, adopting all shades of , brown and rufous, is found in copses at Boxhill and Sen Geally in the ranges. Several species of Emeralds have been taken this year, some certainly undescribed. { have now eleven Victorian species in my collection, ten taken this yea P. Chlorochroma earenaria is the most prevalent with x Agarista latinus still abounds. I took a or new to Victoria and unnamed, but which had been known from Queensland, at Myrtleford. Mr. Dixon reeords a specimen of the rare Gastro-phora perni— caria from near the Moe. The season isthe best I have known for Lepidoptera in the colony, ewing no doubt to the unusual amount of rain. Many more notes might be added, but I will only say there is now an xeellen nt oppor- tunity for the prosecution of entomological studies. CORRESPONDENCE. > Western AustraLtian Wasps, &¢e—A friend in England haying written to me, asking whether a statement made at a meeting of the local Natural History Society is correct or not, viz., that Western Australian Wasps, &c., are stingless, I shall be glad to have any information about them, likewise those of the other colonies. F.G.A.B. NOTICE. ALL communications for the “ Victorian Naturalist,” should be sent to the Editor, A. H.S. Lucas, M.A., B.Se., F.G.8., Anderson— street, Albert Park. Vorett No. 2. | Frprvary 1884. THE 7 LG Wena Victorian Watueralist: - THE JOURNAL AND MAGAZINE OF - THE ~The Anthor of each article is responsible for the facts and opinions he records. CONTERIS: PAGE Proceedings of the Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria .., al ~ On some Recent Miscroscopical Work on Vegetal Tissues. By the Editor aes ve Be #: 2 ; _- Catalogue of the Fauna of Victoria. Mammalia io (4) Notes. -.:. oT ie ar ee ee ate ses (7) CorrmsponpENce : Postal Microscopical Society — aP, Victorian Cuckoos: Oology. By Dr. T. P. Lucas (8. PRICE — SIXPENCE . Gmeraly Hill; J. C. MITCHELL, PRINTER, CLARENDON ST. 1884. abbandonata THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST (=) FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA. ROYAL SOCIETY'S HALL. Taw February meeting of this club was held on Monday, 11th Feb., and was presided over by Mr. Watts, one of the vice-presidents. There was a large attendance of members. Two new members, viz., Messrs. Clarence Hicks and P. Cecchi were elected, and several names were eubmitted for membership. A letter was read from the ' Dandenong Horticultural Society, thanking the club for the valuable assistance rendered by it to the Society’s first Spring Show. Mr. F. G. A. Barnard read “Some Notes of a Trip to Dande- nong Ranges,’ in which he described the principal Plants and Inseets he met with whilst collecting therein November. Dr. T. P. Lucas concluded his “ Experiences of an Old Net,” and in doing so,mentioned that during the last five years he had collected nearly 1000 species of Lepidoptera. A description of the Ranunculacee of the Grampians, by Mr. D. Sullivan, of Moyston, was also read. Mr, Sullivan has been a frequent contributor to the Club, both of papers and specimens, and in the present instance he also made a donation of the specimens, so that the elub’s herbarium, so far at least as. the botany of the Grampians is concerned, is becoming a valuable one. ‘he exhibits were numerous and good. Dr. Ralph showed under the microscope the chemical action of ammonium molybdate on vegetable cclls, and his remarks as to the cause of this action gave rise to con- siderable discussion. Dr. T. P. Lucas showed six species of eggs of Victorian Cuckoos, two of them being hitherto undeseribed ; A Coles, a lizard and ten young ones taken from it, ovary with twelve eggs from Platypus, and also the mammary glands of a Platypns; H. Watts, odontophores of mollusca from shores of Hobson’s Bay; Colonel T. B. Hutton, coleoptera collected from some carrot flowers in his garden at Dandenong; C. French, a new Buprestis beetle, Sternocera Boucardi from mountains of West Africa; P. Dattari, diagram showing the development of second section of coleoptera; J. F. Bailey, three new species of Jand shells of the genus Helix from Dandenong district; J. H. Gatliff, three shells, viz., Myadora brevis, from Sandridge, M. striata from New Zealand, and Chamostrea albida, from Flinders ; A. O. Sayce, Fossil leaf impressions from the Mesozoic coal measures near Hobart; T. A. F Leith, Chinese or King Quail (Coturnix regius), and pair of Java finches, white variety a (2) THE VICLORIAN NATURALIST i (Amaderia Javanicus:; Masters G. and H. Hill, Lepidoptera - recently collected at Windsor; G. Coghill, coleoptera from Plenty River; l. G. A. Barnard, hymenoptera and coleoptera, including Schizorheria Phillipsi, recently collected from off the prickly flowering box new in flower (Bursaria spmosa) ; and J. EH. Prince, Mantis religiosa or praying Mantis. After a pleasant conversezione, during which it was mentioned that the list of subscribers to the club’s new journal, “ The Victorian Naturalist,’ was rapidly increasing, the meeting separated. : ON SOME RECENT MICROSCOPICAL WORK ON VEGETAL TISSUES. By rae Epriror. AN impetus has been given to the more careful study of vegetal tissues by Mr. Walter Gardiner’s paper, published last year. He accounts for the unity of life in the cells of the same plant by maintaining that the protoplasm is actually continuous from cell to cell through minute ap:rtures in the cellulose walls. Hesays that by the use of certain reagents he was able to make out the continuity clearly in the cushions of Mimosa and other sensitive lants. His observations have been questioned, notably on the other side of the Atlantic. The question is still an open one, and attracting much attention in England at the present time. An honoured member of the F. N. C.—Dr. Ralph, the President of the Microscopical Society—following up Mr. Gardiner’s ex- periments, has arrived at some curious results, of which we propose to give a short account. In a paper read before the Royal Society of Victoria in May, Dr. Ralph announced his discovery of Bacteria in living cells of Vallisneria and Anacharis. The plants were healthy, and the only exceptional circumstances to which they were exposed, seemed to be a high temperature, 100°!. at times, and the flood of light on all sides through the glass vessel in which they were grown. That these were not the cause of the presence of the Bacteria may be surmised from Dr. Ralph’s more recent detection of these organisms in Camellia, Vinca major, Arum ethiopicum and Erythrina. The Bacteria were in all cases THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST (3) Bacilli. These forms of life—whether animal or vegetal as yet undeterminable—had previously only been detected in animal fluids, decaying vegetals, and as the governing influence in the various fermentations and zymotic diseases. Their presence in plant tissues adds another interesting bond of union between the two kingdoms. Vegetable physiology has gained as much from the adoption of micro-chemical methods as it had previously from the use of high powers of the microscope. Double or multiple staining has attaimed a high degree of perfection, but as Dr. Ralph points out this is not a chemical re-action at all, and is usually a mere stain- ing of the cell walls of particular tissues, and not of their proto- plasmic contents. In search of re-agents which should produce a direct chemical effect, evidenced by change or production of colour, Dr. Ralph has found one which is remarkably active, neutral molybdate of ammonia. In a paper read before the Victorian Microscopical Society in January last, he gave an aceount of its action on 120 genera of plants. He carefully pre- pares the solution of the salt by adding excess of ammonia to the molybdic acid, and getting rid of the excess by evaporation. In piacing a drop of this liquid on the slide, and drawing it under the cover, tissues of ¢ rtain plants mounted in water immediately show the cell contents tinted with various shades of orange, from palest yellow to deepest red orange. But all plants are by no means alike in their reception of the re-agents, nor are all tissues in the same plant. Dr. Ralph has classified his plants according to the readiness with which they are acted upon, some giving a decided re-action, others a partial or moderate, and a third group no re-action at all. Among the last appear to be most of the Monocotyledoas experimented on, but Hedychium and the Banana fruit gave most marked results, some of the constricted vessels of the latter taking an almost startling blood-red hue. The members of Myrtacee and Proteacee examined, all gave positive results. Of 120 genera, 30 were unaffected, 62 gave a full, and the remainder a partial re-action. Dr. Ralph is hopeful that with more extended experiments, ordinal or generic characters may be recog- nised. He suggests the trial of the re-agent in demonstration of pollen-tubes in style-tissues, and of the hyphe of endophytal and epiphytal microfungi. We hope, as is also the wish of Dr. Ralph, that others will experi- ment on this subject. A careful examination of the action on separate tissues, such as the air-containing cells of an epidermis or of the pith of rushes, the chlorophyll-cells of Marchantia, or any other green cellular plant, &c., will lead to definite and perhaps valuable conclusions. (4) THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST Catalogue of the Fauna of Victoria. VERTEBRATA: Manmatta. By T. A. Forpes-Leity anp A. H. Lucas, AvtHoritins—Waterhouse, ‘Natural History of Mammalia,” Vol. I. ; Gould, “ Monograph of Australian Mammalia ; M‘Coy, “ Prodromus of Zoology of Victoria ; Museum of Natural History, Melbourne. Oo——— Order—MonotreMATa. Genus. Species. Common Name. OrnitHoruyncus, Blumenbach. anatinus, Shaw. Duek-mole. Kcurpwa, Cuvier. Hystrix, Cuy. Porcupine Ant- Hater. Order—M arsupiattia. Family—Macroropip x, Owen. Macropus, Shaw. major, Shaw. Grey or Old- Man Kangaroo. M. fuliginosus, Desm. Sooty —,, M. (Onychogale, Gray.) frenatus, Gould. Bridled_ ,, M. Lagorchestes, Gould.) leporoides, Gould. Hare —,, M. (Osphranter, Gould.) rutus, Desmarest. Red ca M. (Halmaturus, F. Cuv.) ruficollis, Desm. Red-necked Wallaby. M. i" ualabatus, L. et G. Brush-tailed Wallaby. M. y brachyurus, Q. et G. Short-tailed Wallaby. M. sf Thetidis, F. Cuy. and Geoff. Paddy-Melon. M. (Petrogale, Gray.) penicillatus, Gray. Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby. Hypsteryuyvg, Illiger. rufescens Gray. Rufous Jerboa Kangaroo. H. (Bettongia. Gray.) penicillatus, Gray. Jerboa ,, THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST 5) Genus, Species, Common Name (Bettongia, Gray) cuniculus, Ogilby. Kangaroo Rat. Grayi, Gould. Gr ay’s Bettong. M — oh, Family—Puascotomyip#, Owen. PuascoLomys, Geoff. Me hinds Owen. Black or Grey Wombat. Family —Puaraneistip#®, Waterhouse. Puascotarctus, De Blainv. cinereus, Goldfuss. Native Bear, Koala. PHALANGISTA, Storr. vulpina, Shaw. Common “Opossum.” Phe canina, Ogilby. Short-eared ,, Ph. ‘, viverrina, Ogilby. Ring-tailed ,, Ph. (Dromicia, Gray.) ghr iformis, Bell. Dormouse Phalanger. Peravrcs, Shaw. P. (Petaurista, Desm.) Taguanoides, Desm. Great Flying Phalanger. P. ( Belideus, Waterh.) australis, Shaw. Long-tailed ,, 2: i breviceps, Waterh. Short-headed be Pi x notatus, Peters P. (Acrobates, Desm.) pygimeus, Shaw, Opossum- Mouse. Family—Perriaustipa, Waterhouse. PreraMELes, Geoff. obesula, Shaw. Short-nosed Bandicoot. ich nasuta, Geoff. Long-nosed ,, P. gunnii, Gray. Gunn's ,, BS eat Gray. W hite-banded ,, P. (Macrotis, Rei 1.) lagotis, Reid. Native Rabbit. Cumrorus, Ogilby. castanotis, Gray. Chestnut-eared Cheropus Family—Dasyuripm, Waterhouse. PrHascocauty, Temminck. penicillata, Shaw. Brush-tailed Phascogale, Ph. lanigera. Woolly ,, Ph. calura, Gould. Handsome- tailed ,, Ph (Antechinus, Macleay.) flavipes, Waterh, Yellow-footed ,, Ph. te albipes, Waterh. White-footed ,, Ph. a Swainsoni, Waterh. Swainson’s ,, Ph mh leucopus, Gray. | White-faced ,, 6) THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST Genus. Species. Common Name Dasyurus, Geoff. Geoffroyi, Gould. Geoffroy’s Dasyurus. Dz viverrinus, Shaw. Native Cat. D. maculatus, Shaw. Tiger Cat. Order—Crracka. Family—Batanipa, Gray. Puysatus, Lacépede. Grayi, M‘Coy. Australian Whalebone Whale. Family —DeLeuinps, Gray. Detpuines, L. Nove Zealandie, Yellow-sided Quoy et G. Dolphin. PHOCENA. australis, Cuv. Porpoise. Order—CaRnivora. Family—Canipm, Waterh. Canis, L. Dingo, Blum. Wild Dog. Family—Puocipa, Gray. Stenoruyncvs, F. Cuv, Leptonyx, De Blainy. Sea Leopard. Evorarta, Gray. cinerea, Peron. Fur Seal, or Sea Bear. Order—RopeEntTI4. Family—Mvaips, Gray. Mus, L. Nove Hollandiew, W aterh. M. fuscipes, Waterh. Dusky-footed Water Rat. Havatoris, Lichtenstein, Mitchelli, Ogilby sp. Mitchell’s Hapalotis. 1Gb ; albipes, Licht. | White-footed ,, H. eonditor, Gould. Building ,, Hypromys, Geoff. chrysogaster, Geoff. Golden-bellied Beaver Rat. Order—CHEIROPTERA, Div.—F rauctvora. Prerorvs, Brisson, poliocephalus, Temm. Grey-headed Flying Fox. Diy.—I seEctivonra. Mo tossvs, Geoff. australis, Gray. Australian Molossus. a1) THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST Among the many excellent recommendations of the Conference of Inspectors of State Schools held this month in Melbourne, we notice that object lessons are proposed by way of training Victorian children to habits of accurate observation. It is to be hoped that the suggestion will be accepted by the Government, and that the eyes thus opened will be used for the furtherance of natural science in the colony. We are very pleased to announce that Mr. Charles French, one of the founders of the F.N.C., and one of our most active practical botanists, has been appointed second assistant to Baron yon - Mueller, the Government botanist. Mr. French will doubtless do good work in this congenial sphere. He enters on his new duties on March Ist. Borayy.—Ferns.—It may be interesting to collectors to know that the following ferns may be found at the Deep Creek about four miles beyond Doncaster Tower :—Dicksonia antarctica, Alsophila australis, Lomaria discolor, L. capensis, Doodia caudata, Asplenium flabellifolium, Davallia dubia, Adiantum ethiopicum, Cheilanthes tenuifolia, Pteris falcata, P. aquilma.—F.G.A.B. CORRESPONDENCE. Postat MicroscopicaL Socity. {To the Editor of the “ Victorian Naturalist.”) Sir,— With reference to the report of last month’s proceedings of our F. N. Club in the daily papers, will you please inform your readers, that it is intended to exchange objects for examination with the microscopists of Sydney and Adelaide, promises of active suppport from the two cities being promised. The box exhibited was from the Micro-section of the Royal Society of New South Wales, and when this box had been examined by the several workers in Melbourne will be forwarded to Adelaide. With reference to the objects in the Sydney box, one was a speci- men of Marine Bryozoa, which I thought was something new, but not thinking myself quite certain on the subject, sent it to Dr. Macgillivray of Sandhurst, who says that: “It is a species of Flustra, which I had not previously seen, and which is probblya undescribed. There seems to be a layer of cells on both sides (the difference between Flustra and Carbasea), and it is a pity that it was mounted on a dark ground, so as to prevent a view of both sides.” Here then is a sample of notes expected from workers. This species of Flustra has been mounted for years, and probably would have & vA ek of eer a Bet eC a (8) TILE VICLORIAN NATURALEEST ww ie remained unknown, but for this opportunity of exhibiting it to Dr. Macgillivray. Any micro-worker is welcome to examine the objects on sending his name to me, when the terms of his joiming the scheme may be ascertained. T remain,- Yours, ete., No. 20, Wellington-street, HENRY WATTS. Colingwood, February 4, 1884. P.S8.—With your permission I shall be happy to furnish you with any notes on this exchange from month to month. VICTORIAN CUCKOOS. Oology, by Dr. T. P. Lucas. ‘We have six species of Victorian Cuckoos. ae CucuLus rrornatus, Vig. and Hors., pallidus ; Pallid Cuckoo. Leg described. CuctLus (CACOMANTUS) FLABELLIFoRMIS, Lath; Fan-tailed Cuckoo. This species had been shot occasionally near Mel- bourne, but its egg had not been obtained. I have been fortunate this year and last year to obtain a specimen from Nunawading ; also, one taken near Oakleigh in an Acanthiza’s nest. They agree with the description given by Gould. Cucturus (CAcOMANTIS) INSPERATUS, Gould; Brush Cuckoo. I received the skin of this rare cuckoo from near Wodonga, and eggs from the Murray district. Itis of the usual Cuckoo shape, 11 lines long by 8 lines broad, creamy white, with minute dots of slatey grey, thicker at the larger end, and with a number of purplish grey blotches or smears, forming a zone round the larger end. One nest sent down contained apparently one blue wren’s egg, one brush cuckoo’s, and one bronze cuckoo's. Cucturus. (Catcires) oscuntaus, Gould sp.; Black-eared Cuckoo. This bird has been shot near Melbourne, also at Sandhurst. Last New Year’s Day, in company with my brother, Mr. A. Lucas, I found a nest of the white shafted flycatcher, near Box Hill, there were two eggs in and a third, almost identical in description with two I had previousiy obtained, taken from robins’ nests. I saw a bird which I did not know running up and flitting among the shght shrubs, and which, on comparing notes with the Museum specimen was the B. Eared Cuckoo. There can then be little doubt that the egg belongs to this species—eges rounded, one specimen oblong ovate, ground colour dirty white, thinly spotted with dark slatey grey spots, excepting round the largest circumference, where ashey brown, slatey grey and purplish grey blotches form a conspicuous irreg- ular zone, the purplish grey appears as if beneath the surface of the shell. Cucutus (Lamprococcrx) Pracosts, Lath; Bronze Cuckoo, described. Cucutus (Lamprococcyx) Basatis, Horsf; Narrow Billed Bronze Cuckoo, described. EXCHANGES. .0) A small collection of New Zealand shells offered for Australian Cryptogams other than Filices (to be fully named, mounted or unmounted), or for copies of §.S. Record from the commencement to December 1882. as H, Reader, F.S. ey, Smith-street, _ Fitzroy. — A few British fossils offered in exchange for Victorian Aas Lueas, Anderson-street, Albert. Park. Mr. H. Watts will be glad to ease specimens of Fresh- “water Algw or Desmids with collectors in any of the Australian colonies. If possible, the Algz should be in fructification. No. 20, Wellington Street, Collingwood. . Mr. C. French would be glad to give Australian or Foreign Insects in exchange for specimens of Australian Economie Insects and their larva. Botanic Gardens, Melbourne. ) ie oh ere a eS Wf VY 1 ¥ AN 0 wig i Naturalists’ Cheb of Wretonxa, OFFICERS 1883-4. NS SF RIN Presivent : How. Dr: F. S. DOBSON, M.L.C. Pice-jresivents : Mr. HENRY WATTS. | Mr. T. A. FORBES-LEITH. Greasurer : Mr. E.-HOWITT.- Secretary: Mr. D. BEST, 16 Little Collins-street E. Assistant Secretary and Creasurer : Mr. J. H. MATTHIAS. Librarian : Me. J. F. BAILEY. Committec : Mn. F.-G. “A. BARNARD=|- “Ma, J. Ho GATOIER , C. FRENCH. AEE Si Gees “Mr. Av O.-SAYCE: “Time of Ordinary Meetings—The Second Monday in each Month, at 8 p.m., Royal Society’s Hall, Melbourne. Subscription - - - Ten Shillmg per annum. For the ‘“ Victorian Naturalist,” Six Shillmgs per annum, or to Non-Members Seyen Shillings. Post Free. Cre THE a Vou. I, No. 3. 2 Marcon 1884, | Bictovian Maturalist: ea Bs: THE JOURNAL AND MAGAZINE Ol. THER _. Field Naturalists’ ‘Club of Victoria. The Author of “each article is responsible for the facts and ep pons he records. CONTENT Ls Proceedings of the Field Naturalists’ Club- of Victoria The Paco Exhibition : Exhibits by the Members - of the Field Club. ~ Notes of a Day’s Outing on the Dandenong Ranges. By eG As Barwarp. On the Victorian Ranuncnla ACOH iy D, SULLIVAN. Ona Eaeens of Fresh-water Alea from near Berwick. - By A. Warts. The Oreluder of Victoria By C. Frexcu. (2nd Paper) Corrnsroxvunce : Western Australian Wasps %. ic epee -PRICE —SIXPENCEH Emerald Bill; J.C. MITCHELL,. PRINTER, CLARENDON ST. 1884. : JST PAGE ay we een, te) } +54 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST 17 FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA. Tue March monthly meeting of this Club was held at the Royal Society's Hall, on Monday evening, 10th inst, there being the customary good attendance of members, and Mr. T, A. Forbes- Leith, one of the Vice-Presidents, presided. Four new members were elected, viz., Messrs. A. K. Thompson, A. W. Cole, Junr., T. J. Hughes, Junr., and Colonel T. B. Hutton. In reply to a letter received from Dr. L. L. Smith, inviting the co-operation of the Club at the Intercolonial Exhibition, to open on 17th inst., it was announced that several members were sending in exhibits. The papers read, were—Part 3 of ‘‘ Orchids of Victoria and their Habitats,” by C. French, describing the following species, Thelymitra carnea, T. flexuosa, T. McKibboni, Diuris pedunculata, D. aurea, D muaculata, D. palustris and D longifolia; a description, accom- panied by specimens, of some fresh water alge collected at Berwick in November last, by Mr. H. Watts ; and an interesting description of the sound organs of the common green Cicada, more familiarly known as the green or singing Locust, by Mr. A. H. 8. Lucas, who exhibited the different portions of the insect, and explained the method by which the singing noise was produced. The general exmihits were numerous, and comprised Embryoes of a viviparous ray, Urolophus testaceus, by A. H. 8S. Lucas, who found them, for the first time in Victoria, on the beach recently at South Melbourne; arare, if not new species of Fungus of the genus Tulostema, from Sorrento, by Miss F. M. Campbell ; two large star fish, from Honolulu, Mason spider and nest, and Tarantula spider, from California, also a number of young living black snakes, and photographs of some of the animals in the Zoological Gardens, by D. LeSouef ; Orchids, in illustration of his paper, by C. French ; Marine Shells, Philine Angasi, with gizzard plates and animal in spirits, Sigaretus zonalis, with animal in glycerine, §. australis, and §. haliotoides, from West Indies, by J. H. Gatliff; Two Marine Shells, Pyrula perversa, from Ceylon and Concholepas, Peruvianus, from Peru, by T. Worcester ; Coleoptera, Lepidoptera of the month, by C. French, Jun., and F. Spry ; Coleoptera Lepidoptera, and Hymenoptera for February, also Fasciola hepatica or sheep fluke, by J. E. Dixon; a large number of fruit and leaf impressions from the fresh water tertiary formation near Hobart, by O. A. Sayce; Native Tomahawk, found five feet underground at the Keelong tin mine, Upper Murray, by T. Cornwall ; a splendid specimen of the White Goshawk, Astur Nove Hollandiee, by A. Coles, and Cerulean Warbler, Dendroica cerulea, Black and Yellow Warbler, D. maculosa, and Song Sparrow, Melospeya melodia, by T. A. Forbes-Leith. ; After a pleasant conyersazione the meeting terminated, 18 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST SSS THE INTERCOLONIAL EXHIBITION. Exhibits by the Members of the Field Club. As has been pointed out in one of the daily prints, the Annual Conversazione of the Club is practically being now held on a mag- nificient scale in the Exhibition Building. Four members have each had an entire Court allotted to them, and have succeeded in making their Courts amongst the most attractive in the EK xhibition, while several others are represented by effective, if smaller ce ontributions. Baron yon Mueller has a goodly display of native woods, the grain and colour of which are shown in a novel manner in a large number of specimens prepared as mock volumes, and neatly arrai ood in a book-case. Their suitability for cabinet work is shown in a multitude of fantastic forms obtained by the turner’s skill. A large collection of Edible Australian Fungi, and a charming album of European Fodder Grasses, show also how practically our great scientific botanist can consider the needs of the colony. One of the Vice-Presidents, Mr. T. A. Forbes-Leith, devotes his space chiefly to ‘Birds and Eggs. Although his wnique case of Victorian Parrots is yet on its way from Amsterdam, he has a good series to exhibit. A case of Australian nests and ego's, one of eggs of parrots and another of those of sea-birds, illustrate idification and oology. Of birds he shows the falcons, the bower-birds, and the bee-eaters of Australia, and the parrakeets of New Zealand. Mr. J. F. Bailey’s collections of shells are exhibited in a manner worthy of ‘their numbers and beauty. His cases of gorgeous tropical shells, mostly named specimens, which he has collected in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, are of great value as illustrating geographical distribution. His series of Victorian univalyes and bivalves is probably by far the most complete in the world. Dr. Lucas shows 14 cases of Australian Birds’ Eggs, with from 3800-400 species. The Eagles’ and Hawks’ eggs, as usual, are most attractive. The collection is a strong one in parrots, honey- eaters, cuckoos, and wading-birds eggs. He also has 31 cases of Lepidoptera: 4 contain large butterflies, from the Duke of York I. and New Britain, and the remainder, above 1000 Australian species. Mr. C. French shows a large case of gigantic Beetles and Lepid- optera. Mr. J. EK, Dixon, a number of Victorian Coleoptera. Mr. A. J. Campbell, a case containing 100 species of Australasian eggs, including the Tasmanian Swamp Quail, White-footea Heron, and Superb Warbler. Mr. A. Cole, a number of stuffed specimens of native quadrupeds and birds. THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST 19 NOTES OF A DAY’S OUTING ON THE DANDENONG RANGES. By F. G. A. Barnarp. (Read February 11th, 1884.—Abstract.) Tis was an account of “a Holiday on Cup day spent on Mount Corranwarrabul, rather than on the hill at Flemington.” At Warrandyte Station fine specimens of Patersonia glauca were noted, with perianth an inch in diameter. These could not be found in the evening, as the flowers had closed, and the long glaucous leaves were indistinguishable among the grass. In the low country before the rise, several orchids were gathered, Thelymitra aristata and 1’. ixioides, and Diuris longifolia. Feeding on the flowers of Lepto- spermum myrsinoides were many species of Buprestide and Cleride, also a fine Klater—Chrosis trisuleata. Higher up Caladenia carnea was detected, first by its odour, also Thelymitra carnea, and the pretty little fern Cheilanthes tenuifolia. On the summit were well- erown Dicksonias, Alsophilas, and Lomarias, with splendid Musk- trees (Olearia). The altitude is about 2450 feet, and messages are sent hence by Mr. Singleton, from his country house by heliograph to his residence at Malvern. Descending a fine fern-gully with Eucalypts 200 and 250 feet high the flat country was reached again. Here Stigmodera maculata and the hill butterfly Hipparchia abroma were added to the captures. Crossing some scrub, gay with flowers of Tetratheca, Comespermum, and Leguminose, W arrandyte station was reached after a ramble in all of ten to twelve miles. ON THE VICTORIAN RANUNCULACEA,. _ By D. Sunuivay. (Read February 11th, 1884.—A bstract.) Tue Author gave a general description of the characters of the order. Of the vast number of species belonging to it, Victoria only boasts thirteen, belonging to the four genera Clematis, Ranunculus, Myosurus, and Caltha. Our common Buttercup, (Ranunculus lappaceus), is “one of the earliest harbingers of Spring, unfolding its bright yellow, glossy flowers by way of contrast to the pure white ones of. the little native snowdrop, (Anguillaria), and the equally attractive sundew, (Drosera Whittakerii), as early as the beginning of August. The early flowering variety generally grows on poor, gravelly or sandy soils, while the tall, more robust, and hirsute plant, which blooms for many months of the year, prefers the lower and richer pasture lands.” . The water Buttercup, (R. aquatilis), has petals white towards the summit, and as they fall off early, it is difficult to secure good 20 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST flowering specimens. No other Victorian Ranunculus has the leaves so much divided, the segments being as fine as silk threads. The plant is submerged. The rivulet Buttercup, (R. rivularis), has coarser divisions of the leaves and yellow flowers. It is of frequent occurrence on wet, sedgy, especially clayey flats, on the margins of streams and lakes, and the beds of sluggish streams, such as the Wimmera. R. hirtus may be confused with R. lappaceus, but differs in its refiexed and not appressed sepals. Itismuchrarer. R. parviflorus yaries greatly according to the soil in which it grows: the fruitlets are rough. ‘In order to see the other four Victorian species in their native -haunts, the reader must accompany me in Imagination to the Australian Alps. At an elevation of 6,600 feet on Mount Kosciusko, (N.S.W.), large patches of the charming R. anemoneus abound, the whiteness of its flowers vying in purity of tint with the broad sheets of snow lying on the adjacent slopes of the mountain. It is the white flowers and large stem leaves of this queen of Victorian Ranunculi which give to the plant its anemone_tke aspect. Ascending still higher, (7, 000 feet), we notice two other species resembling each other in habit and general appearance. One, R. Gunnianus, has repeatedly divided radical leaves, five or more petals tinged with a purplish hue on the outside, and yellow on the upper surface, and with three gland-grooves which have no scales. Its smooth carpels terminate in almost straight style. The other, R. Muelleri, differs in its entire or few-toothed leaves and yellow flowers. Both flourish, side by side, on grassy depressions, irrigated by melting snow. Still higher, (7,400), on a gentle grassy slope, at the foot of an immense mass of halt-frozen snow, we observe numerous, mostly rectangular spaces, which present the appearance of having been dug out with considerable regularity to a depth of 9 and 12 inches. In these depressions, which are almost destitute of any other vegetation, we find the little white-flowered R. Millani. The whole plant, root, leaves and flower does not exceed ene inch and a quarter in height. The short peduncle is soft, hairy, and bears a solitary white flower, with five-ten petals, having one gland-groove heat a scale. The leaves have a few narrow segments. Mr. Angus McMillan, the discoverer of Gippsland, deserved to have his name identified with one of our Alpine plants, for he must have had rough times while crossing these apparently limitless mountain ranges. But how will future generations recognise his Scotch origin im the word Millani? Another hundred feet and we are at the summit of the huge glacier, (if I am permitted to use the term for a stationary mass ‘of snow.) Here, in the bed of a tiny brooklet, we find several patches of tufted small plants with glossy leaves and snow-white flowers. THK VICTORIAN NATURALIST : 21 This, on examination, we identify as Caltha introloba, the only representative of the genus in the colony. It has no petals in the strict sense of the term, the five-eight sepals forming what we generally regard as the flowers. The leaves of this interesting little plant are very peculiar. They are three-lobed; the two lower divisions turned inwards and upwards, grow erect in front of the larger lobe. In full bloom, the flowers, pure as the white snow, are extremely attractive, especially when it is considered that no other flowering plant is to be seen on this particular aspect of the mountain, at the elevation now attained.” “On subsaline flats, among other small weeds will be found a little plant with grass-like leaves, minute flowers, and a long tapering fruit. This is the little mouse-tail, Myosurts minimus. Tt has a wide range on the basaltic plains of the Hopkins, the subsaline flats on the outskirts of the Grampians and Pyrenees, and along the course of most of the streams in the Wimmera district.” The author concluded his paper by describing the two Victorian species of Clematis, C. microphylla, abundant near the sea-coast, with its “ beautiful festoons of creamy white flowers hanging from bushes and the lower branches of small trees, and C. ariotata, of the forest country, with large white flowers and leaves which burn the tongue.” ON A SPECIES OF FRESH-WATER ALGA FROM NEAR BERWICK. By H. Warrs. (Read March 10th, 1884.—Abstract.) ‘THE specimens were found in the Kardinia Creek, three miles from Berwick, in November, and had been~cultivated by Mr.-Watts until they produced oospores in March. Az the time of collecting, the water was flowing slowly, ard was clear, and free from the green masses of Algz usual mm the waters near Melbourne. The Algae was an Oedogonium, and Mr. Watts considers it Oetenellum. It is much smaller than Oe capillare, which he has found in Fitzroy Gardens, or Oe vestitatum, in a stream at Little Brighton. The oospores were quite globose, and of a bright crange colour. Mr, Watts exhibited under the microscope the Oedogonium in fructification, and also the following Alge collected on the same occasion, viz.:— Micrasterias crenata, Pleurotenium clavatum, Closterium Leiblinii, C. turgidum, Desmidium quadrangulatum and Zygnema porticallis. THE ORCHIDEZ OF VICTORIA. y ©. Frencu. (Second Paper.) ‘Ty the whole globe there is scarcely a region where a flower will grow at all, but an Orchid of some kind may be found. We donot 22 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST mean to assert that they are to be found in equal abundance in all districts ; far from it. We merely state that one of the circum- stances which lends interest to the Orchid family, is its cosmopolitan- ism. To advanced botanists of a speculative turn of mind, it is, of course, a matter of great interest to account for this fact, and to ascertain whether the Orchids of these varied forms in which we see them were originally formed as and where we now see them, or whether they were formed differently in the beginning andin a few places only, whence, in course of ages, they have spread over the globe, becoming changed by force of circumstances, till that wonder- ful variety we now see has been‘attained. JI should here like to re-~ move a yery erroneous impression, viz., that our Native Orchids are difficult of cultivation, and that the tubers will not last, or flower more than the one season. This idea, which I have frequently heaid expressed, is a most mistaken one, as with a little care and attention as to water, resting the tubers, &c., they may be cultivated very success{ully, and flower year after year. I believe that Mr. Kulpa, late of the University Gardens, was the first to exhibit these pretty plants in pots. In the invaluable work of Bentham and Mueller, (the Flora Australiensis), which has been my principal guide on this as on other oveasions, it is stated that this order is one of the most natural and sharply defined, as well as the most numerous amongst Monocotyledons, after Graminee, and abundantly distributed over the hale globe, save only in some Alpine or extreme Arctic or Antarcticregions. The forty-eight Australian genera may be geograph- ically divided into two groups, twenty-eight genera comprising one- third of the total number of species, including the whole of the tribes Malaxidea, Vandeee, Bletidee, Arethusea, the first group of Neottidee and the Ophrydiexw belong to the tropical Asiatic flora, represented in Australia by endemic or frequently identical species. These are all Tropical or Eastern, some extending down to Tasmania, but none found in Western Australia. Five of the genera are also in New Zealand, specimens of which I will show you as I proceed with the reading of the paper. The remaining twenty genera, com- prising two-third of the species, are epeentiony Sustain, belonging to three Australian groups of Neottidee. I may say that the above remarks may be capable of some alteration, as the geographical range of many species is extended, and Bentham again remarks, “As to species I have had for examination, especially in the very rich Herbarium, kindly placed at my my disposal by F. Von Mueller, a far greater mass of excellent material than any of my predecessors, showing for instance how great is the range of variations exhibited in the precise form, markings and processes of the labellun in many of the common Terrestrial Orchids: I have therefore felt obliged very much to reduce the number of published species of Thelymitra, Diuris, Prasophyllum, Microtis and Caladenia. I must, however, admit that the circumscription of several of these species is still far THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST 23 from satisfactory, the forms can often scarcely be ascertained accurately from dried specimens, and colours very rarely.” I have thought it better to use this information from the above work, as it may not be easily accessible to all of you, and it bears out the wisdom of Baron Von Mueiler, who is using his best endeavours to simplify matters by reducing largely the number of published species in Orchids, as well as in other orders of plants, and for which you will agree with me he deserves our thanks. I cannot allow this oppor- tunity to pass without referring to the splendid work on the Orchids of Australia published by Mr. Fitzgerald, of Sydney, the coloured ilustrations and letter-press of which area credit alike to the author and to the colony..I have, as you will see, dispensed with the common names of the Orchids, you would make little or nothing out of them, and they are often misleading, because, go where you will, each township, at least as far as my experience goes, has its own local names, all of which are more or less ridiculous. I have attempted little in the way of scientific description, as these are obtainable from the Flora, the Census, (just published by Baron Von Mueller), and other works on Australian Botany. The abbreviated descriptions are taken verbatim from the Flora Aus- traliansis. In concluding these introductory remarks, I may mention that so far as we are aware, there are at present described from Victoria twenty-two genera and about seventy-three species. This will include the various species recently discovered as being new for Victoria, the names and descriptions of which are published in the ““ Census,” and in the Records of the Pharmaceutical Society and S.S. Record. I have adopted the system given by Bentham and Mueller, and in the Census, viz. :—commencing with the genus Dendrobium, and ending with Glossodia Fy / ‘ zh Drnpropium (Swartz.) (3.2.u%, S.S. R Veta g ae Sepals nearly equal in length, petals usually nearly the length of upper sepal or rather longer, column not very long, winged or toothed at the top, anther terminal lid-like, pollen masses 4, Rhizome tufted or creeping on trees and rocks, stems elongated and branching, or simple and thick, and usually bearing both leaves and racemes, or one flower peduncules, flowers often rather large and showy, and rarely very small. This splendid genus includes some of the most gorgeous and magnificent kinds of known Orchids, of which our botany can boast but two species. 1.—Denvrogrum speciosum (Smith.) Stems thick and fleshy, Ef... six inches to one foot in height, leaves few, two to five, flowers numerous, large, pale yellow, labellum shorter than sepals, column white, often spotted with purple. ‘This beautiful and favourite Orchid is known to most of you by its thick fleshy leaves and reilict te and its long racemes of splendid yellow and white flowers. I believe it is very common in many parts 0 > ieeniantl 24 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST New South Wales, but it occurs sparingly in Victoria, viz. :-— East Gippsland, and country bordermg on New South Wales. Ihave never seen it growing in its native state, but have frequently seen it in cultivation, when its hardy nature and floriferous habits render it a general favourite with plant growers, and lovers of horticulture generally, aud will, if well-grown, hold a very respectable place in any exhibition stand of Orchids, however rare or valuable. To grow it well, near Melbourne, 1t should be under glass, but not kept either clese or too dark. It should be fastened on some old stumps, with a little sphaghnum moss lightly fastened with copper wire around its pseudo-bulbs. Care should be taken against excessive drought or moisture, also to giving it a fair share of rest during its dormant season, (early winter months). This species, if well-grown and placed in small pots or vases whilst in bloom, makes an excellent and attractive plant for the decoration of the dinner table. Found in Victoria, at Genoa River, East Gippsland, by F Mueller and others, also in New South Wales and Queensland 2—DxrnprRouiuM sTRIoLatuM. (Reichenbach.) A curious species found growing on rocks and trees near the sea coast, and on the mountains, the habit as you will see by the specimen exhibited is straggling or trailing. Jn color, the sepals and petals are white, with dark colored striz. or markings, hence its specific name. ‘This species should be fastened on to sandstone blocks or decayed logs, with the rhizomes nearly uncovered, otherwise it is hable to rot. I have no other guide than the imperfect specimen which you see, to enable me to form any opinion as to its werth for cultural purposes, still, being also a Victorian species, it should certainly be cultivated in any well-kept Victorian collection. Dendrobium Milligan: is Syconymous with this species. Found im Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland and (Lo be continued.) 10th September, 1883. CORRESPONDENCE. WESTERN AUSTRALIAN WASPS. For the information of your correspondent, “ F.G.A.B.,” I may mention that I have had inmy posssession many specimens of Western Australian Hymenoptera, and the wasps I found had most formid- able stings, and doubtless when living knew how to use them. I have also made inquiries of a friend who has had practical experience of the virulence of many of them, he having lived and collected in Western Australia for many years. Those from Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia appear to be quite as formidable, judging from the length of their “tickling” apparatus. C.F. re OFF ICERS 1883-84, Presibent ; | Hox. Du. B.S, DOBSON, MLC. Dire: AAresivents : 4 Mr. HENRY WALT Sc 2 >| paleo = PORBES. LETT. Treasurer : : ‘Ma. EK. HOWITT. Secretary : . Mx. D. BEST, 16 Little Collins-street E. Assistant Secretary and Creasurer ; Ma. J. H. MATTHIAS. Librartan : Mr.J. F. BAILEY. Committee : - Mr. F. G. A. BARNARD, Mr. JH. GATUIFF, C. FRENCH. SAS AL: SP on Gass Mr. A. O. SAYCE. ? Time of Ordinary Meetings—The Second Monday in each Month at 8 p.m., Royal. Society’s Hall, Melbourne. Subscription - - = Ten Shillings per annum. For the “ Victorian Naturalist,” Six Shillings per annum, or to Non-Members Seven Shillings. Post Free. 7 g qs we ae ts (OR t fey LRP DREN SP MVHS toe m Ea PRR Te OTe Ie ee ee ee viele ate . i POU Se TT Ay Le ee ee ee ees ee S s5 S is * 2s : APR 1884, Victorian Vaturalist: THE JOURNAL AND MAGAZINE Si cians = oe sid Natura alis sts’ Club ef Victoria The: Author “ef each ale is. responsible stGe the facts. and : | ‘opinions: he records. ee aes CONTENTS: eae ei ae Proventings a the Field ela ‘Ch of Victoria Sear: 25 Be san’ Vensripas Sunken, By l D. Le Sourr EDO On the Classification of Fncalyntis: Ree Dr. Woorts. — 80 Corrmsponpence: Suicide of Snakes pas See eK. PRICE — SIXPENCE i Ee ae Emel, pil: is £. MITCHELL, PRINTER, , CLARENDON ST, - s Je ee ai THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST On, FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA. Aprit Moytuty Meertine, Rovan Socimty’s Haiti, Moypay, 21st’ Tue President, the Hon. Dr. F. 8S. Dobson, M.L.C., occupied the chair, and there was a large attendance of members. Several nominations for membership were received, and Mr. J. F. Bailey promised a paper on “Some Land Shells collected by Col. Hutton at Dandenong.” In accordance with the rules of the Club, the nominations were made for office-bearers for the ensuing year, who will be duly balloted for at the next meeting. Two papers were read, the first being “On the Classification of Eucalyptus,” by Rev. Dr. W. Woolls, Ph.D., F.L.8., who described the different methods which had at vanious times been adopted by botanists, such as by the “ Operculum,” by the Bark, by she Anthers, and by the Fruit, the last being favoured by our great botanist, Baron F. Von Mueller, and also by the writer. The second paper was a most interesting one on “ Snakes,” by Mr. D. Le Souef, the well-known Assistant-Director of the Zoological Gardens, andl as, from his position, he has had favourable oppor- tunities for observation, he was able to record many particulars of the habits, &c., of these Reptiles. The Hon. Librarian acknowledged the receipt from the author, Mr. A, J. Campbell, of a copy of his work on ‘ Australian Oology,” for which the thanks of the Club were duly accorded him, The general exhibits were not quite so numerous as on previous occasions. They comprised British Birds, Parus major, (Great Titmouse, ) Regulus cristatus, (Golden-crested Wren,) “a perbae tes vu garis, (Common Wren,) Certhia familiaris, (Tree Creeper,) Emeriza Citrinella, (Yellow Hammer,) and Fringilla Coelebs, (Chaffinch,) by T. A. F. Leith ; Shells, Voluta interpunctata from India, Conus Victoria, (Queen Victoria’s Cone), from Vv ictoria River, -N.W. Aust., by J. F. Bailey; Shells of the genus Columbella, 15 sp. from West Head, Western Port, by J. H. Gatliff ; recent entomo- logical captures, by BeGe Ac ‘Barnard ; Mundic-coated crystals from the Ellenborough mine, Sandhurst, by H. Kennon; a finely preserved cast skin of the Tiger snake— Hoplocephalus curtus— 26 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. also live spider and nest, hy D. Le Souef; two Orchids in bloom, also specimen of rare beetle, Schizorhina Bakewelli, by G. Coghill; Fossils from upper Hocene beds, at Headon Hill, Isle of Wight, viz. :—Limnz afusiformis, L. longiscata, L. caudata, Paludina lenta, Planorbis euomphalus, also Helix globosa from the Bembridge Beds, by A. H. 8. Lucas. After the usual conversazione, during which attention was directed to the annual one to be held in the Royal Society’s Hall, on Wednesday, 30th inst., the meeting separated. NOTES ON VICTORIAN VENOMOUS SNAKES. By. D. Le Sover. Assistant Director of the Zoological and Acclimatisation Society’s Gardens. (Read 21st April, 1884.) Swaxus of the same species differ very much in colour, a fact which often causes a good deal of confusion in their classification. This is especially the case with our Tiger snake, some specimens being nearly yellow, while others are dark brown, with their bands hardly discernible. I haye seen a dark-red variety of the Copper-headed Snake. This is rare. The Rey. F. Hagenauer, of the Aboriginal Station, Lake Wellington, who sent me the single specimen I have seen, informed me that in the course of twenty years he had only seen two, Snakes do not charm or fascinate their prey in any way, but approach the object of their attack so imperceptibly as not to create any alarm. [ have frequently seen venomous snakes approach within half-an-inch of a sparrow without frightening it, and the only object the bird seemed to take any notice of was the reptile’s tongue, THE VICTORTAN NATURALIST 27 the quivering motion of which seemed to rouse its curiosity, but certainly not. its fear. Both rabbits and mice run to and fro over the snakes without showing any sign of fear, and I have seen the latter occasionally make the snakes’ move out of their way by nibbling at them. Birds, again, if the snake remains quiet for a short time, will frequently perch upon its back, and prune their feathers, &e, and even try to remain on efter the snake has commenced to move. The young snakes are born alive, and not hatched out of eggs. I récently received a brood of young Blaek Snakes which had been , taken out of their mother after her death. They were active and lively, and changed thei skin about a fortnight after. Black Snakes which were born in captivity a few days ago, changed their skin the day after birth. Snakes usually change their skin about, every four months. They shel the old skin by first pushing their heads against any projecting object to loosen. the skin from lips and head, then by sti ill pushing and using their ribs ease it off until the tail is reached. The skin of the tail generally comes off without being reversed, as that of the fore-part ‘usually is. The integument is continued over the eyes, being here transparent until just before the change of skin, whem it becomes opaque, so that the reptile is then nearly blind. The shed skin is thus perfect. During the sloughing the snake declines all food, but is correspondingly hungry and vigorous when the process is completed. Venomous snakes destroy their prey by poison. Some, such as the Copper-headed, when they have caught and bitten an ammal, commence swallowing it at once, while yet alive, but the ise Snake does not touch its prey after it has bitten it ‘until life is quite extinet. When swallowing, the jaws are ineved alternately... This is possible from the freedom of movement which is obtained Ly. all the bones of the head being united |y elastic ligaments, so that the head and jaws can stretch consideral ly.. Hence also snakes can swallow prey apparently larger’ then themselves. Occasionally. two snakes will seize upon the same prey, and as neither will give way, the larger swallows the lesser, until the latter is compelled to relax its hold on the prey and withdraw trom the eontest., [lately heard of a case where a large snake had. swallowed a smaller one in the manner described, but the latter had gone too far down to be able to récede, and die ed, and when the larger snake was opened, it was found to have partially digested its opponent, ouly the tail remaining uninjured. The Yiger Snakes and Death-adders generally preter mice and rats. Rats do not succumb readily to the poison, and take a long time to die. Lately I saw a small native cat bitten severely by three large Tiger Snakes, with about five minutes’ interval between each bite, and it took an hour, and ‘a half'to’ die. ‘The other snakes prefer frogs as an article of diet. 28 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. All snakes commence swallowing their prey head first, and seem to use their tongues as a feeler to help them to diseover where the head is. The tongue, from its quick quivering motion, has always been one of the most interesting parts of a snake, and T think it is used in this way chiefly as an organ of touch, as you frequently see them feeling the victim over the better to ascertain its position. There is a copious flow of mucus, but the tongue is not employed to cover the prey with this fluid, as has been supposed. During deglutition, the glottis is sometimes seen to protrude a quarter at an inch from the mouth, so that the animal can breathe freely during the operation. The hiss is caused by the action of the expired air on the margin of the glottis. They will only feed in warm weather, and if it becomes cold or dull during sum ner, they refuse to eat until the sun resumes its sway. They hibernate during winter in hollow logs, under stones, or in holes made by other animals, asthey do not burrow themselves. When they drink they keep their mouths just belowthe level of the water, taking up the liquid by suction. They also often dip their tongues in the water, but not to assist in drinking. When the mouth is closed, the tongue protrudes through a small opening in the upper lip at the point of the muzzle, which part is free trom teeth, and it is drawn back into a sheath on the floor of the mouth for protection while the siiake is feeding. Snakes shed their teeth, new ones being rapidly produced. There are always a number of immature fangs behind the two in use, and if these are destroyed by any accident, another pair will be fully developed and ready for use in about six days, The point of the fang is extremely fine and solid, the tooth being perforated in its lower three-fourths. The channel is enamelled. The fangs of all our snakes are permanently erect, and when the mouth is closed, fit into a depression in the lower jaw. The jaws do not close on each other, but also fit into depressions, If frightened during a meal, snakes sometimes disgorge. I once saw a Tiger Snake kill and swe allow five mice in succession. Finding that they were more than could be managed, it retained only times. The digestion is good, and probably assisted by the venom injected, as it has heen shown recently that it possesses peptic qualities. It is very difficult to draw conclusions as to the relative power of the venom of different snakes, as so many causes exist which affect the time the poison takes to act. In cold weather the reptiles are nearly dormant ; while changing the skin they are sluggish ; the poison-g -olands may be ssshovigial by previous bites ; or the animal THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST 29 may be in a weak condition from confinement or other causes. A bite from a Tiger snake in full vigour is generally fatal, and the eases of cure recorded are probably due to some one of the above mitigating circumstances. No absolute antidote is known, although there are several so-called. Spirits taken internally, aid the system to throw off the depressing effects of the poison. But the most powerful stimulant in cases of snake bite is the strong solution of ammonia injected into the veins, as suggested first by Professor Halford of the Melbourne University. Its effects in cases of collapse are most marked, but it depends upon the amount and virulence of the venom injected whether the remedy be successful or not. If the wound is scarified and sucked at once, and a tight ligature applied to the limb, a certain amount of the poison may be abstracted, and so less remain to be contended with. But it often happens, spite of all remedies, that the poison acts rapidly and fatally. Snakes progress chiefly by means of their ribs, which move in. wave-like motions. When travelling fast through grass and fern, they shoot onward with rapid “ serpentine” motion, forcing them selves along by any solid that may be convenient. When they climb up against glass, &c., they seem to create a vacuum with their ventral scales. They will almost invariably try to escape ifanyone approaches, and very seldom attack when unprovoked. The Tiger shake is the most pugnacious of Victorian species. Some snakes, especially the Black Snake, cover the ground atan amazing pace, so that the eye can scarcely follow the movements, The Death-adder is the slowest of all. Snakes are very fond of water, and have the faculty of remaining beneath the surface for a lengthened time. A gentleman recently told me that when bathing in the Goulburn River, he saw a snake coiled up on the sand, about a foot under water, where he was just about to step, with its head erect and glistening eyes fixed on his foot, which in another instant it would have bitten. ‘hey swim gracefully and swiftly, with the head and several inches of the body above water, Our snakes have their natural foes. A relative of mine told me that he was riding on his run one evening some years ago, when he suddenly saw a laughing jackass swoop down from a large gum tree on tothe ground, and in a moment the bird ascended with a snake, apparently between two and three feet in length, in its powerful beak Ti flew to a considerable height and then dropped its victim, and reaching the ground nearly as quickly as the snake, immediately seized and took it up again, repeating the same process several times, until the snake was either killed or sufficiently disabled to enable the bird to kill and eat it. Pigs are also great enemies to snakes, and often destroy and eat them. | 30 THm VICTORIAN NATURALIST. ON THE CLASSIFICATION OF EUCALYPTUS. By Rev. Dr. Wootts, Pu.D., E.LS. THERE are some genera of plants in which the species may be grouped without dithculty. They seem to be distinguished by certain characters, and to fall naturally into their proper places. ‘Thus, for instance, in some of the large genera in the Leguminous and Myrtaceous orders, our eminent botanists, Bentham and Mueller, Soro hestation in reducing the species to their respective stations in a systematic arrangement. One large genus, indeed, that of ' Acacia, (which numbers some 300 species), though, taken as a whole, a most marked one, gave Mr. Bentham much trouble in forming any definite sevtions, and therefore he regarded Juis divisions as somewhat provisional, looking forward to a period when the pods of all the species could be procured for comparison and the funicle oF the sceds be carefully examined. — - With regard to the subdivision of the genus Eucalyptus, he candidly acknowledged, that to the botanist who i unable to compare the various forms in a_liying state, the due limitation and classification of the species “present almost insuperable obstacles. In the early days of Australian colonisation, when, in addition to #H. obiqua, only eleven species were known to Huropean nav Grime nae being noticed in the immediate neighbourhood of Port Jackson), it was considered sufficient to divide them according to the shape_and length of the opercuia which covered the stamens in the bud, Thus, Hilldenow (1799) has two classes, viz., those with conical, and those’ with hemi- spherical opercula. This classification was followed by R. Brown, (1810), to whom about 100 species were partially known, and with further modifications in regard to the shape and length of the opercula, it- was adopted »y De Candolle, Don, &e. When Baron ecie some thirty years ago settled im Australia, and had oppor- tunities of examining many species of Aucalyptus im a living’ state, he found that the system of classification aitherto pursued was untenable, sceing that, in some species, the length of the operculum was not uniform, whilst in others the shape was sometimes conical and sometimes hemispherical. This Ta him to deyise what#is termed the ‘cortical system, that is, a grouping of species accor- ding to the nature of their yective barks, such, for instance, as “smooth-barked,” “ half-barkod,” ‘ fibrous-barked,” and “ deeply turrowed-barked ” trees TO. the European botanist, this system, (though extremely natural and of great use to those who have an THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST OL opportunity of seeing the trees in a living state), cannot be regarded as satisfactory, because he has no means of testing its usefulness, or of obtaining a correct impression of its character. Moved by these considerations, and also by certain suggestions of Baron Mueller, as to the form of the anthers in the species, Mr. Bentham elaborated an ingenious system for grouping the species according to the siape and openings of the anthers, that is to say, whether they are reniform iar or oblong, or whether they open by divergent or parallel slits, or by pores. For a cabinet arrangement, this method of erouping has many advantages, and Baron Mueller has followed it with a certain modification in his systematic census, (1882). The chief objection to this system is that it separates trees closely allied, placing for instance, some Iron-Bark trees in one section, and some in another; whilst it must be admitted, that it is of a character too artificial for general appreciation. When I was writing on this subject some years ago, I remarked, “Some species are marked by the double operculum, some by winged seeds, and others by the colour of the stamens ; but the shape, cells, valves, &e., of the seed- yessels present important notes of distinction, and deserve the most attentive study. Hence, I believe that these considerations, when taken in connection with the cortical group to which the respective species belong, will be found most efficacious in settling many difficulties. (Cont. to Flora of Aus. p. 218, 1867).” IT am happy to learn that the distinguished botanist of Victoria entertains similar views, and that he proposes, in connection with his Kucalyptographia, to elaborate a system founded on carpologic considerations. It it be true in botany, as it is in religion, that “ by their fruits ye shall know them,” favourable results may be anticipated from the Baron’s labours. My knowledge of Eucaiypts is very limited, and [ have neither the ability nor the opportunity to follow ont such a system as that contemplated by my learned friend, but I feel assured, that, whilst little reliance can be placed on the comparative length of the operculum or the shape _of the leaves, the fruit is subject to less variation. Ina large genus like that of Hucalyptus, containing about 140 species and scattered wilely over the continent, there may be some difficulty in obtaining the material necessary for accomplishing the object in view ; but judging from the figures ot fruits already published in the Hucalyptographia, tt may ve hoped that a work progressing so inspieimele will be carried on to its completion. In conclusion, 1 may remark that this question respecting the systematic arrangement of Kucalypts, is one which concerns the whole of Australia, and that, though the Baron is supposed hy unthinking persons to be writing from a Victorian standpoint, he is in reality, as the greatest of Australian botanists, advancing the interests of science in all the colonies, 32 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. NOTES. Avameeting of the Field Naturalists’ Section of the Royal Society of South Australia, held March 22nd, Professor Tate presiding, Mr. D. Best, the Hon: Sec? EN-Cs and Mr. H. Watts, Vice-President F.N.C., and Hon. See. of the Postal Microscopical Society of Victoria, were elected honorary members. Mr. A. J. Campbell, F N.C., has brought out a volume on the ‘‘Nests and Koos of Australian Birds.” Descriptions and dimensions are given of about 418, or nearly all the known Australian eves, 262 being taken from Mr. Gould’s celebrated work on the birds of Australia. Of the remainder, Mr. Campbell claims to here describe 122 for the first time, from specimens in his own collection, Prefaced to each of the families, isa gereral description of the kiad of nest made by the members “of the family and the number of eggs usually laid. This is a convenient arrangement, especially for beginners, as they can easily determine the family of any bird whose nest only they have found, and then determine the bird itself by comparing the eggs with the concise descriptions which follow the family characters. ‘The descriptive portioa of the book will make it, in company with Mr. Ramsay’ s Tabular List, a valuable vade- mecum for practical oologists, who will owe Mr. Campbell a corresponding debt of oratitude. For those who delight in adventure, we had almost said romance, Mr. Campbell has appended a series of Bebies of his “camp-eutings,” in which in very lively languave he tells of the sort of sport to be obtaiued in Australian birds— -nesting. It should be added that this publication includes a number of papers read beiore the Iield Naturalists’ Club. CORRESPONDENCE. SUICIDE oF SNAKES. “Yn Nature,’ March 18th, p. 452, Mr. Hardman, Government Geologist of Perth, W. Australia, mentions an instance of the suicide, by its own venom, of a Black Snake. The snake had been wounded, and the wounded part having been attacked by black ants, ‘it instantly turned short round and bit itself twice on the neck with seeming determination, and in less than one minute it was dead.” Myr. Hardman believed the death to be due to its own venom. Can anyone substantiate this view of reptile suicide by similar instances, from his own observation of our native snakes ?—A. H.S. L. EXCHANGES. ~ Mr. H. Watts will be glad to exchange specimens of. Fresh- water Algz or Desmids with-collectors in any of the Australian colonies. If possible, the Alge should be in fructification. No. 20, Wellington Street, Collingwood. Mr. C. French would be glad to give Auchan or Foreign Insects in exchange for specimens of Australian Economie Inseets and their larve. Botanic Gardens, Melbourne. NOTICE, ALL eatnnlicabious for the “ Victorian Naturalist,’ should be _sent'to the Editor, A. H. S. Lucas, M.A., B.Se., ‘F. G.S., Albert Road, Albert Park. ‘Field aloraligls’ Cheb of? eos ae OFFICERS 1883-84, Ma. J. F. BAILEY. Committee . Win. F: GA. BARNARD. | > MnoJ. Ho GATLANE. G. FRENCH. - A. HS. LUCAS. “Mn A. 0. SAYCE, 12, Time of Ordinary Meetings—The Second Monday in each Month, at 8 p.m., Roy: ral Soci iety’s: Hall, Melbourne. ° Subscription - — - Ten Shillings per annum. For the ‘“ Victorian Naturalist,” Six Shillings per annum, or to Non-Members Seven Shillings. Post Free. — yo eR : } 4 os wo F te << < v ie 745 CONTE oNTS: oe 8 of the Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria’ ee -8. Dozson, MLC. THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 33 FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA. FOURTH ANNUAL CONVERSAZIONE. Tue Fourth Annual Conversaziore of this Club was held at the Royal Society’s Hall, on Monday evening, 30th April, and, like its predecessors, was exceedingly well attended by both members and the public, so much so, indeed, that it will be necessary for the Club to consider the desirability of holding the next one in rooms afford- ing more spacious accommodation. This large attendance was certainly well deserved, if only for the excellence of the numerous exhibits, many of which must have cost the exhibitors a great deal of time and patience in the procuring and setting them up, not to mention the constant care required to keep them in the well-preserved condition in which they were shown. : Of the President’s adress, as it will appear in full in the present number of the Victorian Naturalist, it is not necessary to say more than that it was delivered in the Hon. Dr. Dobson's happiest style. He referred to the past doings of the Club, and to its present flourishing condition, and made suggestions for future work, including the compila- tion of a botanical Key, similar to one published for the Tasmanian flora, by Rev. W. Spicer, and a recommendation to adopt a suggestion made to him in a letter from Professor F. McCoy, that members should study the numerous insects, parasitic on native and cultivated plants, also the galls on various leaves, and the insects producing them. In concluding he referred, with regret, to the continued indisposition of Baron F. Von Mueller, to whom the Club is under obligations for information always most readily afforded, and who, it was generally hoped, would soon be fully restored to his usual health and energy. Immediately following the address, Mr. C. A. Topp gave an interesting biography of the Cape weed, so common all over the colony, and known to almost everyone by its yellow flowers, which are in some places so numerous as to give the appearance of forming a yellow carpet. Mr, Topp dates its introduction into the colony at about the year 1840, and, with other particulars, described the adaptation by which its cross fertilisation was secured. After an interval devoted to the inspection of the exhibits, the audience again assembled to hear from Mr. A. H. 8. Lueas, a short lecturette, entitled “Common Objects of the Seashore.” In this, Mr. Lucas described many of the objects he has met with in his rambles on the Victorian coast. He also pointed out that the coasts of this colony present, perhaps, the best field for studying the ‘questions of geographical distribution, and of the variation of species. Of the exhibits themselves, where all were so good, it is almost invidious to speak of their relative excellence. Perhaps the most ‘interesting of all were the specimens of plants collected by Robert Brown, one of the first of Victorian Naturalists in the Port Phillip district in 1802-4. These relics of the great botanist were shown , ($342 Se) nSG THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. by his worthy suecessor, Baron Von Mueller, and were in a perfect state of preservation. The growing plants, the Victorian ferns shown by W. R. Guilfoyle and F. G. A. Barnard, and the exotic Orchids of J. F. Roberts, formed a new and most pleasing feature. Mr. Bailey’s splendid series of fossil fish from the Lebanon Cretaceous, and another, equally fine, from the Old Red Sandstone of Scotland, were admired and examined by nearly everyone. The microscopes of Mr. H. Watts, who devoted the whole evening to their superiatendence, afforded visitors an opportunity, largely availed of, of seeing his carefully mounted preparations for illustrating the structure of Insects, his well-stained specimens of the tissues of Australian plants, and a large number of histological slides. We will now give a more detailed list of the exhibils. Baron von Mugtuer.—Specimens of Australian Timbers in book patterns ; Specimensof plants collected at Port Phillip, 1802-4, by Robert Brown; Album of European Fodder grasses, and Coloured Plates of Edible British Fungi. J. F. Battey.—Series of 32 Fossil Fishes from the Cretaceous of the Lebanon, including beautifully-preserved specimens of Spaniodon Blondelit and Sp. elongatus, Rhincllus furcatus and Cyclobates oligodactylus. Two large slabs were shown full of fine specimens of Olupea, &c. Series of 32 species of Fossil Fish from Old Red Sandstone of Scotland, including Diplacanthus longispinus, Coccosteus oblonga, Chetrolepis Oummingat, Pterichthys, &e. A fine collection of Ammonites from the Lias of England, one slab alone containing about 100 well-defined specimens of A. Smithis. Slab of ozvon Oanadense. Collection of 307 specimens of Victorian Shells, made by Mr. Bailey, probably the most complete yet achieved. All Mr. Bailey’s collections can be seen systematically arranged in the Museum of the Trustees of the Exhibition Building. W. R. Guitroyie.—Collection of 40 Victorian Ferns in pots. F. G. A. Barnarp.—6 Victorian Ferns, in pots, the most notice- able being Gleichenia circinata, and G. flabellata. Also, 6 cases of Insects collected in and around Kew, one case containing typical specimens of the different orders, sections, and families of Insects, and one case each of the orders Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Hemiptera, Neuroptera, and Hymen- optera. J. F. Konerrs.—Magnificent flowering specimens of Oncidium Papilio, from Trinidad, O. Rogersi, Odontoglossum grande, a new Calanthe from New Caledonia bearing a tall spike of pure white flowers, Lelia autumnalis, and other rare orchids, inter- spersed with ferns. H. Warrs.—Several series of microscopical objects as above described. J. E. Prince anp O. A. Sayce also showed microscopes. os Or THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. D. Best.—1 Case of Australian Hymenoptera, 2 Drawers of Victorian Longicorn Beetles, containing 150 species ; 1 Drawer each of Australian Elater, Cetonia, and Carabus; 1 Drawer of Australian Beetles of various families; 1 Drawer of Victorian Buprestis, and a glass shade, containing pair of rare species of Kangaroo Rat. Ornithology was illustrated by T. A. F. Leith, with a Case of Rapacious Birds, viz., Black-cheeked Falcon, White-fronted Falcon, White Goshawk, Collared Sparrow-Hawk, M. and F. Owls, &c.; CO. French, with a case of beautiful Humming- Birds; E. B. Green, Australian and other Birds’ Skins ; A.J, Campbell, 100 specimens of Australian Birds’ Eggs; A. Coles, 1 case of Penguins and Waders, 1 case of Parrots and Honey-eaters, and 3 glass shades of Birds; and A. J. North, 2 glass shades of rare Australian Birds. Botany by C. A. Topp, Representatives of the principal Natural Cris found in Southern Victoria; Miss F. M. Campbell, Collection of Australian Fungi; J. E. Dixon, 8 Books of Victorian Dried Plants, 3 Books of Victorian and N.Z. Dried Ferns, and 2 Books of Victorian Orchids; J. Stickland, Collection of Marine Alege ; J. E. Prince, Dried Plants ; A. Thie, Collections of Woods and of Marine Alge ; P. Dattari, N.Z. Ferns, and beautiful drawings of Australian Ferns, executed by himself; EK. B. Green, Australian Woods. Entomology was further represented by C. French, Case of Australian Lepidoptera; G. Coghill, Box of Victorian Cole- optera; C. Hicks, Exotic Beetles; R. Laing, Cabinet Collection of Australian Beetles of the late D. Kershaw. T. Worcester showed 6 cases of shells; J. H. Gatliff, 100 species of the genus Oliva, comprsiing 320 specimens; UO. A. Sayce, a ease of Victorian Miocene Fossils. The Junior members were not wanting on this occasion. C. French, Jun., showed Fossils; and W. F. H. and G. E. F. Hill, (aged 10 and 8 years,) a case each of Moths and Butterflies, caught or bred by themselves. The exhibits were under the supervision of Messrs. J. F. Bailey, T. A. F. Leith, and C. French, who displayed good taste in their arrangement, and also afforded information to enquirers concerning them. The visitors began to disperse at about 10 o’clock, and the Club may fairly be congratulated upon haying afforded them an instructive evening’s entertainment. eRe oe PEON) “Seka wR EP Sesh By Hon. Dr. F. L. Dozsoyn, M.L.C. Tue following is the address delivered by Hon. Dr. Dobson, M.L.C., President of the Field Naturalists’ Club, at its annual conversazione, on the 30th ult.:— 356 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. Ladies and Gentlemen,—We meet to-night upon the occasion of our fourth annual conversazione, and the duty devolves upon me to inform you what we have done during the past year, and to make a few remarks as to what it is preposed to do in the year upon which we are now entering. When the club was first formed it was felt to be an experiment which might or might not succeed, but any fears that existed in the early infancy of our club have been happily dissipated, as our rapidly increasing numbers prove that we are regarded as one of the institutions of the country. In a new country such as ours, the inducements to observe nature in all her aspects are greater than in older lands, because in addition to the charm to be derived from the study itself there is here the stimulus of the possibility, I may say the probability, of discovering something not before described. Again, on our excursion the different sections are placed under the leadership of the best man in each that we can find, and his assistance is invaluable to all of us who do not happen to be so well informed. Then the search through a district by several is of course more complete than it could be were only a single individual engaged in it ; and although you may be unable to find the particular specimen you may wish to procure, another more fortunate companion may succeed in finding it in situ. Most of us are engaged in occupations which confine us within doors, and the mere ramble in the country for a few hours is as good for the body as it is for the mind of the intelligent observer. Last Queen’s Birthday was a very wet day, and the plans laid down for the excursion, which included a long walk, had to be changed ; but even then, during an hour or so of fine weather, Mr. Best was enabled to give those of us who were present a considerable amount of information upon the insects in and around Mordialloc, so that the day was not wholly lost. Other excursions during the year have been more fortunate. Socially, as well as scientifically, such an institution as ours must act beneficially, as it brings into closer and more intimate union those who are already held together by the tie of affection for some scientific pursuit. The circle of the sciences is so complete that hardly one can stand alone, and the man who possesses a good microscope, and knows how to use it, may be said to be a part and parcel of every science. For instance, a good field geologist finds a piece of silicified wood or an impression of a leaf or insect. Here he will have, unless he be a highly accomplished student, to apply for aid to the botanist or the entomologist, and these latter may have in their turn to apply to a microscopist to aid them in identifying the specimens. This illustration could be widely extended, but it is sufficient to explain what I meant to point out, viz., that we are a sort of co-operative association for scientifie purposes. Like the bundle of sticks, we are far stronger when united than when we rely upon our individual Strength. Our indefatigable secretary, Mr. Best, has kindly THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. orl furnished me with the results of the meetings and excursions of the club, and these results will form the main portion of what I have to say. But before saying it I have to tell you, with a regret which will be felt by all, that Mr. Best finds it impossible to give us his services as secretary any longer. Although we have been able to secure a worthy successor in Mr. Barnard, I think we ought not to part with Mr. Best in his capacity of secretary without telling him that we have highly appreciated his services, and thank him for them. Mr. Best tells us that—‘ During the past year 33 new members have been added, making a total, after allowing for resignations, of about 170 members, The papers read have com- prised nearly every branch of natural history. Botany has been well represented by Messrs. W. R. Guilfoyle, director of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens ; H. Watts, H. T. Tisdall, C. French, D. Sullivan, and F. G. Barnard. Mr. Gujlfoyle has given a pleasant account of a trip to the South Sea Islands, and of the beautiful plants he there saw, especially of the ornamental foliaged kinds, such as crotons, dracenas, palms, &c. Mr. Watts, who is so well known as a collector of alge, or more commonly known as sea-weeds, and freshwater weeds, has described the results of trips he made to Macedon and Berwick in search of his favourites, of which he found many species, at the first named being fortunate in securing some oscillaria and gomphonema. He has also given the results of a personal microscopical examination of the silt of the River Yarra, in which he found specimens of Cristellaria, Rotala, and diatomace, also one of campylodiseus, this last being only twice previously found near Melbourne—yiz., by Dr. Coates, of South Yarra—and then considered a new species; and more recently, when digging the drain for the West Melbourne swamp. Mr ‘Visdall, whose residence is at Walhalla, has given an account of the flora to be found in his district, and Mr. Erench, who has so ably described the ferns of the colony, is now doing a like oS or pleasant and useful duty for that beautiful class of plants, the orchids. Mr. D. Sullivan, of Moyston, a frequent contributor to the club, has furnished two additional papers, one being a supple- meutary ‘list of the plants of his district, amongst them being a new orchid found by him near the summit of Mount Difficult, and named by Baron Von Mueller after the finder Caleya Sullivani, and the second a description of the Ranunculacee of the Grampians. Mr. F. G. Barnard has contributed a pleasant little paper entitled “A Collecting Trip to the Dandenong Ranges,” in which he describes some of the plants and insects he there met with. Oology has been done ample justice to by Mr. A. J. Campbell, who has completed his description of Australian birds’ eggs, and has just published same in a separate volume, which may be con- sidered the most complete extant work on such a subject. Mr. Campbell has also given an account of a collecting trip he made to ‘Tasmania, where he succeeded in securing a specimen of the rare bird Acanthiza major. Hntomology has ‘also been well represented 38 THE VICFORIAN NATURALIST. by Mr. T. Harrison, who is well-known as an observer of the habits of ants, bees, and spiders, and who has contributed two papers on his favourite study, and the results of his observations seem to fully confirm the general belief of the great instinct possessed by these interesting little animals. He also contributed an interesting and humorous | paper on what he termed “ Life on an Old Pile,” being a description of the many and varied forms of animal life he had observed on an old pile recently thrown up on the beach. Lepidoptera, or the butterfly family, always receives justice from the hands of Dr. T. P. Lucas, he has, under the title of “ Experiences of an Old Net,” pleasantly recorded the results of collecting trips to Marysville and Warragul. Some Russian anl other beetles, sent by Count Bramston, a Russian entomologist of some note, have been described by Mr. French, who drew attention to the singular fact that two beautiful black and red species of a longicorn: beetle of the genus Purpuricenus, from Algeria and Hungary, very closely resemble the one found in New South Wales, West and South Australia, from which, indeed, it is scarcely distinguishable. Conchology has only had one repre- sentative, viz., Mr. J. H. Gatliff, who gave an interesting descrip- tion of the genus Pecten and their peculiar powers of motion, some species, as is well known, being capable of jumping out of large baskets. Mr. A. H. S. Lucas has explained the position of sponges in the animal kingdom; also the sound organs in the green cicada or green locust, so well known to the youth of the colony, Mr. T. A. F. Leith has recounted several anecdotes in connexion with the phocide, or seal family, expressing his belief, from personal observation, that music has an undoubted eed for them, and also that they have great foresight in apprehending danger. Mr. J. F. Bailey has described a new species of gordius, or hair worm, which he received from the St. George River, near Lorne, and over this considerable discussion took place relative to the generation of worms. In the course of it Mr. Watts took occasion to mention that, although there was a general belief that infusoria existed in the Yan Y ean, he had, after very careful exam- ination, failed to find any trace of them. ‘The formation of a postal miscroscopical society, similar to one recently established in England, was advocated by Mr, Watts, the object being the transmission through the post from one member to another of specimens for ex- amination, and their ultimate return to a recognised head office. ‘he excursions have been much better attended than during the previous year, and have resulted in not only pleasant outings, but also the discovery of many rare and several new species of plants and insects. The exhibits at the monthly meetings have been exception- ally good. Amongst the many may be specially mentioned seven stages in the life of one of our common months, Ossorhina nana, by J. F. Spry ; a fine series of coloured plates showing the development of the nee Phylloxera vastatrix, by Dr. L. L. Smith ; ; limestone fossils from Lilydale, by F. G. Barnard ; Australian fungi, by a THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 39 ‘Miss Campbell; rare eggs, by A. J. Campbell; a beautifully preserved specimen of the rare fossil shell, Cyprea contusa, found in the miocene limestone at Cheltenham, also many other shells and fossils, by J. F. Bailey; a fine collection of shells of the genus Pecten, many of them being of beautiful colours, by J. H. Gatliff ; rare fossils by J. HE. Dixon and O. A. Sayce; a fine specimen of the rare orchid, Caladenia suaveolens, found by D. Best at Berwick, and being, according to Baron von Mueller, the second instance of its being found in the colony. It would take up too much of your time for me to enumerate even one-half of the exhibits, and this must be my excuse for not mentioning the names of other exhibitors. Considering its limited resources, the club cannot be too highly complimented upon its usefulness, which would un- doubtedly be greatly extended if the Government would only extend to it some little liberality in the shape of a small annual erant, and this the club still hopes to be fortznate enough to secure. With the view of endeavouring to render itself even more widely known than it is at present, the club has undertaken the publi- cation of its transactions, and of the natural history of the colony generally, under the title of the Victorian Naturalist, to which contributions, either in the shape of subscriptions or natural history notes, are earnestly solicited. ‘The exhibits at the conver- sazione this evening may not te quite so numerous as on previous oecasions, but this is owing to the fact that several of our members have been induced to send their collections to the present Inter- colonial Exhibibition. A want long felt is now about to be supplied. I allude to the nomenclature of our insects, so many of which are unnamed, but the London Entomological Society, in response to our application, has kindly consented to name any specimens the club may send, and this offer will be certain to be availed of very extensively.” A short time ago J wrote a letter to Professor M‘Coy, which, with his answer, I will now read :— “73 Chancery-lane, March 18, 1884. “My Dear Professor,—When I accepted the position of president of the Field Naturalists’ Club, I thought that I was merely stopping a gap till the rules could be altered, and you replaced in your old chair. But I now find myself face to face with what to me is a very grave difficulty. I have to deliver the annual address at the meeting in April. Of course it is an easy task, with the aid of our active and skilled secretary, to give a history of what the club has done during the past year, but the president’s duty should not stop at that point. He should be able to do what you have hitherto done, uamely, suggest the directions in which the energies of the club should be directed in the coming year. He should be able to fairly estimate the scientific worth of what has been done in the last 12 months, and tell the members what to do in the future. As you have been such a friend of the club hitherto I have taken the liberty of writing to you, not so much to assist me personally out of a difficulty, but to give the club the benefit of any words of advice which your profound knowledge of natural science and natural history may suggest. As a man who has devoted his life to these studies, you cannot but take an interest in anything which may further investigation in subjects with which you are so familiar. I 40) THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. W am induced to hope that you will not turn a deaf ear to my request, but that you will on this, as on former occasions, give us the benefit of your views.—Believe me to remain, yours faithfully, “FR, STANLEY DOBSON. * Professor M‘Coy.” “ University, April 28, 1884. “My Dear Dr. Dobson,—In answer to your invitation to suggest some subjects of investigation for the next year’s work of the Field Naturalists’ Club, of which you are president, I think the most interesting and useful line of investigation not yet touched by the club, and yet particularly suited to its functions, is the subject of the vegetable parasites belonging to the class of insects, both native and introduced, which are injurious to cul- tivated and native plants. ‘I'he philoxera of the vine is so like the species of other plants, that it is very important that members of the club travelling much and observing in the field should endeavour to ascertain whether other specie; are in the country, and particularly to find out whether the P. vastatrix attacks any other plant here, for if so, the destruction by the state of vineyards would have to be supplemented by other precautions. I suggest this subject of research because I have collected a great deal of evidence to prove that°other imported parasites spread to plants of very different species and genera to those to which such parasites are confined in their own country. In one of the early decades of the Prodromus of the zoology of Victoria, I pointed out that the caterpillar of the Agarista glycine, which is a native insect, had left its native proper food, the gnaphalium introalbum, to attack the foliage of the vine, doing immense damage to the vineyards, although the plants are so dissimil:r in al! respects. I would now suggest that the members should next year determine as many other similar cases as possible. Mr. Carson sent me some weevils last year, collected from his apple trees, which he thought might be the American apple weevil, which does such mischief in the United States as to be thought worthy of a quarto illustrated memoir to itself; but on examination [ found they were a native species, chiefly confined to the gum trees in the bush, and it would be highly interesting if the members of the club would, by multiplied observations in the field, ascertain whether it has really acquired the habits destructive to the apple of its American representative. Professor Nanson sent me down a branch of an apple tree from Mount Macelon which was showing signs of death, the cause of which J found was the multitude of the mytilaspis covering the bark, specifically identical with that which destroys the apple orchards in Hurope and America ; and I now find it has departed from its old-world habits, and commenced the destruction of several different species and genera of plants which it had not been known to attack before. The commonest of our native species of Icerya I have studied at the few opportunities I have for field work, with one certain result of very serious importance probably in the future—nanely, that it brings forth young at every season of the year—for I find that it is now leaving its native plants and attacking imported plants of the most dis- similar character to its native proper food—fruit trees and large pine trees being killed by it in my grounds at Brighton. To determine the list of valuable imported plants which it now feeds on would be very useful and interesting. Another point, concerning which the help of numerous observers in the field is necessary to ascertain the precise fact, is the determination of which precise species of ichneumon bores and destroys each of the Coccidz, or scale insects, which fortunately, we see, are perse- cuted by native Hymenoptera, sometimes more than one species of ichneumon boring one scale insect. I have been able to find only a few to establish the fact with certainty, but the members of the club can work this field advantageously. Another nearly allied line of investigation, in which little has been done in this country, specially requiring such an association as the club to THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 41 multiply and record the necessary out-of-loor observation, is the determina- tion, descriptions, and figuring of all the galls and their contents in the colony, and the settling the fact of whether each gall insect forms its galls on only one, or also on other, and if so, what plants? The galls are often singularly beautiful in form, unlike those known elsewhere, and, as in other countries, the different sorts are usually marked with peculiar colours, often contrasting remarkably and beautifully with the leaves on which they are developed. This requires the formation of water-colour sketches from the fresh objects, which should then be dried until the contained insects come out, whether those forming them, or parasites, which I find very numerous, which must in this way be connected with the peculiar galls. They form a work not yet even begun in this colony. The follow- ing out Sir J. Lubbock’s researches on the habits of ants would be only possible in this colony, where they are so numerous, by the members of the club. The time has arrived when the members should make a determined effort, this year, to settle the question of whether the platypus lays eggs in its burrow or not. Coming to the end of my paper reminds me that I must not, like the brook, ‘‘go on for ever,” with my suggestive remarks, cur- tailing the time of your eagerly-expected presidential address.—Kver, my dear sir, very faitnfully yours, “ WREDERICK M‘Coy. “The Hon. Dr. Dobson, LL.D., President Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria.” And now for a few remarks from myself personally. Many of you will nave read in the newspapers that our distinguished member, Mr. A. H. 8. Luvas, has established a field naturalists’ club at the Wesley College, at which he is mathematical master, and the first expedition of the class to the seaside was eminently successful. This is an example well worthy of imitation, not only in our private, but also in some of our state schools. Cricket, football, and rowing, where it is possible, are very valuable in their way, as muscular exercises, which involve more or less skill; but it is extremely desirable that some other means of intelligently occupying leisure hours should be available to our young people, and Mr. Lucas deserves a high meed of praise for initiating this system in his school. The high honour of being made a Fellow of the Linnean Society has been recently conferred upon one of our members, whose labours among the flora of the Grampians have deservedly attracted the attention of the Teadmg botanical society of the world. It is to be hoped that this distinction will stimulate Mr. Sullivan to increased efforts, and that our club will be from time to time informed of what he is doing. Mr. French, who has been such an active worker and reader of papers in the club, has met with some recognition of his scientific attaiments by being appointed as an assistant to the Baron von Mueller, in the department of the Government phyto- logist. It is to be hoped that in his new position he may have more opportunities than in his old one of increasing his knowledge of his favourite sciences, and share with us the benefit which he himself receives. J would allude with regret to the small number of lady members on our roll. Botany is beyond all others a science for ladies. What lady is there who does not love flowers, or who walks through the bush in spring and does not gather a bouquet? But 49 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. cz Ad if these ladies knew what a far higher interest they would feel in every walk they took if they would only study a little botany, we should find them come to us in numbers for assistance and advice. Of course there is the old_objection to botany, that it uses such terribly ugly names to describe pretty flowers, but no science exists without its own terminology. A little steady application, however, renders the difficulty much less in reality than it appears. The committee might well consider the propriety of giving elementary lectures in the various sections of the club, so as to encourage beginners, and I trust to see something of the kind attempted at an early date. Having seen tie immense good done by publishing a dichotomous key for the botany of Tasmania, I must regret that we having nothing of the kind here. Such keys, which have been published in Europe, have helped botanical students over what appeared to be insurmountable difficulties. But as some of you probably do not know what a dichotomous key means, J will explain it in the words of my late respected friend, the Rey. W.W. Spicer, of whose abilities as a botanist the Baron von Mueller once spoke in the highest terms. Mr. Spicer compiled the small book which I hold in my hand. He was a man who desired to bring his favourite science within the reach of everybody, and he adopted, as far as it was possible to do so, familiar English words in his descriptions. He therefore naturally feared to use so alarming a 29 title for his book as “ Dichotomous _K and modestly called it ‘** A handbook of the ania,”’ It contains a short explanation of the only long words he uses, and the explanations are further explained by reference to drawings of the objects referred to. These drawings are from the pencil of his daughter, who I grieve to say died under very sad circumstances about a year after her marriage to a well known naval officer formerly on this station. The lithographs executed in Hobart do not do justice to the talents of the artist. Now let me explain in Mr. Spicer’s own words how the key works, and how by means of it, anyone who has mastered the four or five pages of glossary, can find out the name of any plant he may pick up in Tasmania. I may mention that I never take a walk in the bush in this colony without my Spicer in my pocket. Even when loaded with gun and cartridges I always find room for this little volume. Mr. Spicer, in a chapter entitled “Method of using the system,” writes :— “The vegetable kingdom is, by common consent, divided into two_sub-kingdoms, known respectively as phenogams and crypto- ams, or flowering plants and flowerless plants. The latter sub- Salon embraces an almost countless host of ferns, mosses, sea- weeds, &c., of which the first only, the ferns, come within the compass of the present work. Flowering plants fall into two classes, exogens and endogens. In the former the yeins of the leaf are netted, and the numbers 4 and 5 prevail in the corolla and other parts of the flower; whereas in endogenous plants the leaf veins are parallel, and the flower with its organs is generally THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 43 separable into three or_six parts. Exogens branch into three groups, viz.—Polypetals, in which the corolla is composed of at least two pieces ; gamopetals, in which the parts of the corolla are combined so as to form a single piece; and apetals,in which the floral envelope is either single, the distinction of corolla and calyx being lost, or is altogether wanting. Following these primary divisions, are orders, genera, and species. As each of these groups of plants is founded on characters common to a large number of individuals, it is plain that if we can step by step eliminate such characters as are foreign to the particular specimen we have in hand, retaining those only which belong to it as am individual, we shall gradually isolate it from its surroundings and ascertain its name. Jt is on this principal that the system adopted in the following pages is based. However, as ‘example is better than precept,’ we will suppose that the reader is desirous of ascertaining the name of a plant, which turns out to be the well-known clematis, so frequently met with in the bush, decorating the trees and shrubs with its white starry flowers. Turning to the first pair of con- trasted characters on page 1, we read as follows :— 1. Flowering plants, having stamens, pistils, and seeds. Phenogams 2. , Flowerless plants, &e. Cryptogams 123. Ours is of course a flowering plant or phenogam, after which is placed the figure 2, so to that number we turn :— 2. Veins of leaf netted. Flower in four or five parts, &c. Hxogens 3. » Veins of leaf parallel. Flowe: in three or six parts, &e. Hndogens 107. A glance at the leaves shows a surface of closely netted veins, and the flower is divided imto four, occasionally five parts; hence the plant is an exogen, and we go to number 3 :— 3. Corolla and calyx distinct : the former usually conspicuous. 4. , Corolla and colyx indistinguishable or wanting. Apetals 78. There being but one floral envelope comprising both corolla and calyx, the specimen is apetalous ; we therefore pass at once to the bracket marked 78 :— 78. Stipules entirely or half sheating the stem, &c. 79. 79. Stipules normal or wanting. 80. There are no stipules ; 80 therefore is the next number to be looked for :— 80. Perianth conspicuous, &c. $1. » Perianth obscure, &c. 383. As the white perianth is decidedly conspicuous, we choose 81:— 81. Stamens numerous, inserted under ovary, styles several, &c. Ranun- eulez. 127. ,, Stamens two or four inserted on perianth. Style 1, &ce. 82. The numerous stamens and styles show that we have reached the right natural order, ranunculer. The next point is to determine the genus. Fer this we are directed to 127— 127. Leaves opposite,&e. Clematis. 514 ,, Leaves alternate or radical, &e. 128. ‘eB. 44 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. The opposite leaves prove the plant to be a clematis. For the particular species we are referred to 514 :— 514. Stem herbaceous, erect, &c. C. Gentianoides 1 Stem woody, climbing, &e. 515. One more step is needful, for our specimen is a woody climber :— 515. Anthers with a long point, &e. C. aristata. 2. » Anthers short, normal, &c. CO. microphylla 3. The anthors have long narrow points ; consequently the plant is clematis aristata, If the reader wishes to know something more about his specimen he will turn to No. 2 in the ‘ Systematic Arrangements.’ There he will find what is its true place among the plants of Tasmania, and also from whom it received the name it bears, viz., the iMtuctrious Robert Brown. For a full description he is referred to Bentham’s Flora Australtensis, Vol. 1. p. 6; and to Hooker's Flora of Tasmania, Vol. 1, p. 2 (where it is described as C. coriacea), and p. 8 (as C. blanda). Lastly, he is informed that the species grows abundantly throughout the island.” Now, why has not such a book been written, if not for Australia senerally, at any rate for our colony? It is hard to say. With the magnificent work by Bentham and Sir Ferdinand yon Mueller, and with the elaborate Census recently published by the latter, the work of complication should be easy. In these days of proposed federation, it would not be too much to ask each colony to con- tribute to the publication of a book which would be of immense value to all. The work might be placed under the superintendence of the Baron, assisted by a competent staff, and I believe that the several Governments would find that the sale would more than recoup the expense. Such a work, however, if compiled, should be sold at as cheap a price as possible, so as to be within the reach of almost everyone interested in botany. Whilst in Tasmania last January I heard from two different sources that a white _waratah had been seen on the western coast, both at its north and south ends. Hoping to be able to distinguish my year of office by a ducing it here this evening, I called upon the Suryeyor- General a Hobart, and asked him if he would permit his surveyors to offer on my behalf a reward of £5 for a flowering branch. I regret to say that I have not been successful, nor do I believe that such a plant could have-remained so long undescribed if it existed at all. The Surveyor-General told'‘me that on one occasion a specimen of the native laurel (Anopterus glanduylosys) had been brought to him as a white waratah—a strange proceeding, as one can hardly understand how it was possible to mistake the latfr, which is a saxifrage, for the former, which is a protetd, It seems more likely that someone with a few hazy ideas of botany mistook the white protead, Lomatia tinctoria, for a white species of Telopea. In conclusion, I would allude to the wnanimous regret inte teal at the lengthened in- disposition of the Baron yon Mueller, and express the hope that he may soon be restored to his health and his labours. eld ¥ Vatorahiets’ Cieh of Tictorla Be OFFICERS 1884-85 Se Saye eRe se a Sr : ak Pte, sara ee Ras ta Creek ¥ i a ee ee ean aera eo PROLIF OID eee President : Rey. J. J. HALLEY: | Dice-Presidents : Mr. T. A. FORBES-LEITH | Mr. A. H. S. LUCAS. Greasurer : Mr. J. H. MATTHIAS. ‘Secretary : | Mr. F. G. A. BARNARD, Kew. Assistant Secretary : Mr. G. COGHILL. ~ Librarian : Mr. J. F. BATLEY. Wommittee . Mr. C. FRENCH. _-Mr. J. E, DIXON, Oo. SoH. GA TEIN, pC AL TOBE: Mr. D. BEST, \ Time of Ordinary Meetings—The Second Monday in each Month, at 8 p.m., Royal Society’s Hall, Melbov ae. Subsciiption - - ~ Ten Shillings per ennum. For the ‘“ Victorian Naturalist,” Six Shillmgs per annum, or to Non-Members Seven Shillings. Post Free. OF THE Naturalists’ Club of Victoria — : = ‘opinions he recorls. conrTE'rs: “Yo ns Momus, K.CM.G, MD, Ph. D, ERS. a aia, a oo Victoria, : ‘By C. Hite (third Paper) ues oS BRICN i 7 > > D » Barnard - = = = = 2 10 , Gatliff - P - - - - 12 In conelusion, we would urge upon our successors the necessity of inducing more of the members to contiibute papers, as It 1s principally by this means that the success of the Club is to be 50 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. achieved. We shall therefore hope that the coming year will introduce to the Club, papers by those who have hitherto from a feelmg of modesty refrained from contributing, thus giving the Club the benefit of their valuable observations. For and on behalf of the Committee. DOUBLE FLOWERS. By Rev. W. Wootts, Px.D., F.L.S. os A FEW years since, a writer in one of the English periodicals mentioned it as a remarkable circumstance that no double flowers had been found in Australia, and he gave several reasons for supposing that, in this part of the world, there was an absence of such causes as lead to the phenomenon in other countries. At the period to which I refer, there was no record, so far as I have observed, of any such flowers, for the volume of Baron F. von Mueller’s Fragmenta, in which he alluded to some double Epacrids, had not been published, and perbaps no one in the colony with the exception of the late Sir William Macarthur had paid any attention to the subject. When some fifteen years ago, Epacris purpurascens was found with double flowers at the North Rocks, near Parramatta, and also in the neighbourhood of Sydney, Sir William assured me that he had seen similar flowers in the bush at Elizabeth Farm many years previously. Since that time, different observers have paid attention to the subject, and #1. microphylla has been found with double flowers at the North Shore and Manly Beach. Two other monopetalous flowers have been found in a similar state, viz., Convolvulus erubescens and Wahlenbergia gracilis (the Australian Blue Bell), the former by the Rev. T. V. Alkin, M.A., at Campbelltown, and the latter by the writer in the immediate neigh- bourhood of Richmond. Amongst polypetalous flowers, Baron Mueller mentions Eriostemon obovalis as occurring with double flowers ; and the Common Buttercup (Ranunculus lappaceus) has been noticed near Bathurst and Parramatta in the same condition. Rubus rosifolius, a native plant, is often seen with double flowers when in cultivation, but I am not aware that it occurs so in a wild state. Itis probable, however, that it does. Double flowers are generally great favourites with floriculturists, and they are usually supposed to be the result of hybridization assisted by cultivation, by which process the petals are increased in number by the transfor- mation of the the stamens and pistils. In flowers really full, tae whole of these are thus changed into petals, but in multiplicate and proliferous flowers, this is only partially the case. The causes which THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 51 occasion such flowers in a wild state, and indeed the true character of the organs which are liable to change, need further investigation. Professor Sachs remarks that “the morphological homology of the separate parts of the ordinary stamens is not yet altogether deter- mined, more precise investigations into the history of development being still wanted in that direction.” Some writers consider the two anther-lobes as the swollen lateral halves of the lamina of the stamen, and their loculi as mere excavations in the tissue of the leaf; but this according to the same eminent writer, cannot be the case, as in the conversion of stamens into petals, ‘the anterior and posterior loculi do not stand opposite each other, which would be the case if one belonged to the upper, the other to the under side of the staminal leaf.”” However this may be, it may be inferred that flowers in a wild state are exposed accidentally to the same causes which are said to influence them under cultivation, and that the stamens and pistils may be affected with hybridization through the agency of bees and other insects, without the intervention of art; whilst nature herself may bring about atmospheric changes favourable to the excessive development of petals. If in the early days of the colony, double flowers did not exist ina wild state, and if long after the foundation of the settlement, Epacris purpurascens was the only species known to have such, (the same having been found on Elizabeth Farm, near Parramatta), it may be concluded that the introduction of foreign bees and the increasing manure from eattle, have tended to augment the number of such cases. So far as observation has yet extended, I am not aware that any double flowers have been noticed beyond the settled districts, and if this be really the case, it seems to show that the writer to whom I have referred as stating that there were no such flowers in a wild state in Australia, was not so far wrong as we might suppose from more recent observations. Mr. C. French stated that he had collected double flowers of Epacris impressa, of both white and red varieties, the former at Cheltenham, and the latter on Arthur’s Seat, near Dromana. He had also found double flowers of Sprengelia incarnata by the Plenty River, and of Styphelia (Astroloma) humifusa, near Mt. Martha. REMARKS ON THE ORCHIDACEOUS GENUS, LATOURIA, By Baron von Mouruuzer, K.C.M.G., M.D., Ph.D., F.R.S. As long ago as 1848, Prof. Blume of Leyden established the genus Latouria in the fourth volume of his “ Rumphia” mainly from a Cn ) Z THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. drawing made at the commencement of this century by Mons. Latour-Leschenault in New Guinea, whereas one of the Naturalists of Baudin’s Expedition he discovered the beautiful and remarkable plant, which bears generically his name, it being specifically dis- tinguished as L. spectabilis. As the plant seemed not to have been re-discovered, I was pleasingly surprised, when within the last few days I received as likely new from Ch. Moore, Esq., F.L.8., a flowering specimen from the Sydney Botanic Gardens, etdinedeal by a note, that he had received the plant for his conservatory from the Solomon-Islands. Thus an opportunity was aff. rded me, to re- examine this evidently rare plant. I can bear testimony to the general accuracy of the illustration furnished at tab. 195, fig. 1 and tab. 199, C in the “ Rumphia,” and also to the description given at p.p. 4142. Some details can however now be added to the latter; and this is all the more desirable, as Mr Bentham, (B. H., Gen. Pl. IIT, 501,) lately expressed a doubt, whether the pollinia were correctly described, and thus the geuus one of validity —The stem before me is fully 14 foot long, bearing 6 transverse scars; the leaves are nearly twice as long, but not broader than those illustrated by Latour, numbering 5; the raceme bears 10 flowers, which I find inodorous and resupinate, as shown alrealy by the published draw- ing, the labellum turning upwards ; the latter in its lower portion is almost whitish, in its upper pale-yellow, but so copiously traversed by dark-purple veins, as almost to assume that color, especially as the broad median line, with its but very slightly elevated streaks is also dark-purple ; the upper love of the labellum curls readily inward along the margin, then assuming a hornlike shape; the lateral lobes are clasping behi nd the anther, the touching purtions being connate for a short distance, but only lightly 0, Sece ling from each other on slight mechanic pressure ; the two-furrowed callus near the junction of the 3 labellum-lobes is whitish, and passes below into an equally callous plate of quadrate shape, which fits contiguously to the gynostemium ; the anther is greenish, a very thin and narrow membrane turning upwards at its base; the yellow ceraceous pollinia consist uf two pairs, coherent into a roundish mass, dorsally slightly concave, frontally convex, the pairs on pressure seceding, the two portions of each pair not quite so readily separable, equal in length, placed longitudinally—The main characteristic, on which the genus rests, namely the supposed occurrence of only two simple pollinia, is therefore wrongly given, while the minor note of the anterior unison of the lateral labellum-lobes is also to some extent invalidated, as this coalescence is rather one of coherence than actual concrescence. It will thus be best to reduce Latowria to a section of Dendrobium, with which in all other respects it generically agrees. Indeed Prof. Miquel (flora Ind. Batay. ITI, 645) already surmised, that this plant should be regarded as a Dendrobium, altho’ he had no opportunity to confirm this by any» original observations. THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 53 ORCHIDE#Z OF VICTORIA. By C. Frencu, Govt. Botanist’s Department. (Third Paper.) Sarcocuitus ( Brown.) Spats and petals nearly equal, free, spreading, the lateral sepals often more or less dilated at the base. Labellum articulate at the end of the basal projection of the column without any spur at its base, 3 lobed, the lateral lobes rather large. Column short, erect, produced at the base. Anther terminal, lid like, Pollen masses 4, in pairs. Leaves flat and often falcate, Racemes axillary, Bracts small. 1. Sarcochilus parviflorus (Lindley.) A small but singular epiphytal Orchid, found growing on small trees. The color of flowers is creamy with yellow and reddish markings, which, in the specimens I have seen, are somewhat indistinct. This species was formerly considered very rare in Victoria, when about the year 1866, Mr. Taylor, of Messrs. Taylor and Sangster, found a few specimens whilst looking for ferns in the deep gully of the Dandenong ranges. I found two very small specimens adhering to a stunted plant of our Native Musk tree, (Aster argophyllus,) some couple of years after- wards, but I learn that it has lately been found in some quantity on the Tarwin River, in Gippsland, a locality where I believe many rare plants of both Ferns and Orchids still remain unearthed. As this is the only epiphytal species likely to be met with by our members, a lengthy description, other than the generic one given above, will be I think unnecessary. he leaves of this species I may mention grow to about 4 inches in length, and those who wish to search for it, should look in the darkest and most remote parts of the Fern gullies, more particularly on the upper branches of Musk and Native Hazel, (Pomaderris). Sarcochilus Barklyanus, S. Gunni, and 8. australis, are identical with this species. Found in Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania. Cultivation same as smaller species of Dendrobium. This will conclude the list of the Hpiphytal species, as far as I am aware. The next in order is Diropium (R. Brown.) Sepals and petals nearly equal, free, spreading, labellum sessile, erect, column erect, semi-cylindrical, the membranous margin variously sinuate or toothed, anther lid-like, pollen masses 2. deeply lobed, or 4 in pairs, terrestrial, the leafy stems when present simple with distichous leaves, racemes on long leafless scapes, or long erect axillary peduncules, with sheathing scales at the base of the scape, flowers purple, rather large, often spotted. 1. Dipodium punctatum (R. Brown.) This is one of the most beautiful of our native Orchids, as it is also one of (if not the largest) of our Terrestrial species. In the Dandenong Ranges, 54 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. Dividing Ranges, Gippsland Grampians, &c., I have seen this superb species growing in the greatest luxuriance, often from 2 to 4 feet in height. It should be sought for on table land, and not in the gullies. It is somewhat difficult of removal, as the large tubers are nearly always found in the hardest ground in the district, and almost invariably amongst some roots or stumps which render it as I have before remarked, difficult to obtain the tubers withont damaging them, which in this case, entirely destroys them. In lifting this species, (also Gastrodia,) a spade, and care should be used, as it is next to impossible to lift them entire with an ordinary collecting trowel. This species flowers about the end of December, and unfortunately, it seldom keeps its color in the Herbarium. To grow it, good strong loam should be used, water being sparingly given. The soil should be well pressed down in the pot, and it must have ample room. This species if well grown, would be a valuable addition to our collections of the Victorian Orchidew. Many years ago, I found two fine specimens growing on the bank of the River Yarra, near the present site of the Horticultural Societys Gardens, and of late it has been found at Brighton ; it is, however, pretty generally distributed throughout the Colony. Dendrobium Punctatum, sp. (J. Smith,) is synonymous with this species. Found in Victoria, New South Wales, North Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania. Gastropia (R. Brown.) Sepals and petals united in a 5 lobed tube or cup, gibbous at the base under the labellum, labellum shorter than the perianth, column elongated, anthers lid-like, pollen granular, stigma on a short protuberance at the base of the column, herbs, parasitical on roots, leafless, and not green, scapes simple, erect, with short, loosely sheathing, brownish scales, flowers creamy white, in a terminal raceme. 1. Gastrodia sesamoides (R. Brown.) A large and singular Orchid, found growing on Table land in dense forests. The peculiar brownish co!our of the stem and flowers will render it of easy recognition, there being no other species at all resembling it. This species is also of very difficult removal, and seldom seems to thrive well under artificial treatment, the principal reason of this being, that the large tubers which (as inthe preceeding species Dipodium,) grow in the hardest soil, and almost always on, or close to a root, stump, or log. Mr. Benthan does not mention this peculiarity in the genus Dipodium, which, however, is as near as possible identical. In the forests of Gippsland, Gembrook, Fernshaw, Dandenong, &c., this species may be often found growing to a height of from one to three feet or even larger, and it would, I am sure, be a fitting companion to Dipodium, in any well cared for Victorian collection of Orchids. The culture of Dipodium will also suffice for this species. The flowers of this species dry a much better colour than those of the former. Found in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. Hy3) Tasmania. I am acquainted with only one other species, which I show you here this evening, this being from New Zealand. Flowers in December and January. SprrantueEs (Rich.) Dorsal sepal and petals erect, lateral sepal free and more spread- ing, all nearly equal, labellum sessile or nearly so, embracing the column by its broad base, column short, with a small, erect appen- dage or lobe on each side, anther erect, pollen masses 4, granular or mealy, sessile on a gland, rostellum short, bifid, terrestrial, herbs, with oblong, underground tubers, or thick clustered fibres, flowers small, spirally arranged in a terminal spike, stems leafy, or sometimes at the time of flowering with sheathing scales only. Spiranthes australis (Lindley.) A very pretty, and in Victoria, somewhat rare species. The rhizome is short, stem glabrous, (seems eyen more so under cultivation,) lower leaves linear, or narrow lanceolate, spike spiral very dense, flowers sessile, pink and white, Sepals and petals varying from 14 to 2 lines in length, labellum as long as the sepals. I may say that until the last season for Orchids, I had never been so fortunate as to find this species myself, and I am indebted to my friend, C. Schlipaulis, of the Botanic Gardens, for my first specimen, also for the information as to the locality where it was found by him, and after an unsuccessful attempt for a whole day, I was at last rewarded by finding a fine patch containing many good specimens, some of which were dried, ~ and the remainder grown for the collection of living specimens. I may mention that this species cannot be mistaken for any other, because of its very singular spiral spike. I have found it growing on wet heathy flats, amongst rushes, and care should be taken by the ordinary observer, that Styldium graminifolium is not mistaken for it, as at first sight it somewhat resembles the latter pretty and well-known plant. To grow it well, it should be placed in black sandy loam with plenty of fibre and an abundant supply of clean water. This species should, if well grown (say 6 or & tubers in a pot), make a very pretty pot plant. Flowers in January and part of February. It is a cosmopolitan species, and is found in Queens- land, New South Wales, Tasmania, also in New Zealand, and in part of tropical and temperate Asia, extending to some parts of Europe. Neottia Australis of Brown, is synonymous w.th this Species. Catocuitus (R. Brown.) Dorsal sepal erect, rather broad, concave, lateral sepals about as long, broadly lanceolate, spreading, petals shorter, broadly falcate, labellum as long or longer, the margin and whole surface densely fringed, except a narrow terminal point or ligula, column short, with a rather broad wing, anther bent forward at the base, pollen masses granular, terrestrial herbs, with ovoid tubers, leaf usually solitary, long and narrow, flowers few, in a terminal raceme. 1. Calochilus campestris (R. Brown.) This beautiful Orchid is, 56 TAE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. I regret to say, becoming exceedingly rare in the vicinity of Melbourne, and even at Berwick, where I thought I knew where to lay my hand on it as in former years, I did not succeed in finding a single specimen. ‘To those who are interested in Orchid collect- ing, there will be little difficulty in distinguishing this species, because of its beautiful and singular purple fringed labellum, which is totally different to any other Orchid, excepting perhaps, C. Robertsonit, which it much resembles, although it is not so rare as the latter species. In the good old days of Orchid collecting, twenty years ago, Mr. Schlipaulis and myself found the plant growing rather plentifully in the scrub lining the swamp, near which the Caulfield race-course grand stand now rears its pretentious head, the former grand stand (which many of you may remember,) being composed of four pieces of hard-wood quartering, and a paling roof. This inelegant edifice suddenly disappeared, and with it, evidently the Calochilus, for neither he or I could ever find it there afterwards. So much for civilization. This plant seems to accommodate itself to many soils, as I have found it in boggy heath land, at Caulfield, Berwick, and Cheltenham, on stony rises at foot of Mount Wilham, and on ground in the Whipstick scrub, near Sandhurst, where the soil was as bare, and the neighbourhood as rugged and uneven as ‘the St. Kilda road, since the removal of the Toll-gate. In the cultivation of this plant, I should advise to grow it in black, sandy soil, with plenty of drainage and abundance of clean water. ‘This pretty species should be in every collection. Height about one foot, flowers in October and November, and in the higher districts, possibly later. Found also in Queensland, New South Wales, and Tasmania. P.S.—Since writing the above, I have found it rather plentiful near Mount Eliza. 2. Oalochilus Robertsonit (Bentham.) Described in the ‘“ Flora” as a stouter growing species than the former one, but with the leat usually broader. The descriptions seem to be much alike, excepting that in this plant the labellum is fringed all over, and the two wings being connected at the base by a transverse raised plate across the base of the labellum, and of which, Mr. Bentham says, he sees no trace in the two other species, alluding to C. campestris, and C. paludosus. I have not found this species myself, but the very excellent drawings, kindly sent by my friend, Mr. H. T. Tisdall, of Walhalla, will enable you to form an idea by which you could identify it, should you be fortunate enough to meet with it on any of your excursions. Cultivation, time of flowering, probably same as that of C. campestris. According to the ‘“ Flora,” this species is restricted to Victoria, but I see by the “‘ Census,” just published by Baron von Mueller, that it has also been found in South Australia. It might assist our members, to know, that before flowering, this genus may be easily mistaken for some of the larger growing species of Thelymitra. Flowers in November. Has been found many years ago by Mr. Schlipaulis at Caulfield. — ee & Weld Naturalists’ Cheb of OFFICERS 1884-85. BRUINS NAS EN NY Ns President ; 4 fa Jd Heeb. 4 | Vice-Presivents : PRN oc Mn. T. A. FORBES LEITH | Mr. A. H. 8, LUCAS. 4 Treasurer ; | ae Mr. J. H. MATTHIAS. | ieee. Secretary t Mr. F. G. A. BARNARD, Kew. ’ | i . Assistant Secretary ; ARN a Mr. G. COGHILL. © > Librarian : NS NE iy dS rk POF a) ee 1k Re ee nee eT ee “Ma J. F. BATLEY. | : | Committee . Mr. C. FRENCH. Mr. J. E. DIXON. ‘yy od. BH. GATLIFF. Ae OAc ROPES : Mr. D. BEST. ; Time of Ordinary Mectings—The Second Monday in each Montle ‘ at 8 p.m., Royal Society’s Hall, Melbourne. <° aa: : a re - Subscription — - vie - Ten Shillings per annum. For the “ Victorian Naturalist,” Six Shillmgs per annum, or to Non-Members Seven Shillings. Post Free. ) ix: } THE: “ies Bay ict Ga Ps -opmmions, he records, CON GaN Ts: t The Ballarat Field ae and Seienee oes ie pee A Orchidew of Victoria. By C. Frencu. (Fourth Paper ) -) sa) PRICE SIXPENCE — t ____ | a merald Bill J. 0, MITCHELL, PRINTER, CLARENDON’ ST. 1884. i ; int _ Proceeding os oe the Field as Club. of Victoria. + as “Obituary Notice at SYR oP ay wedas Victorian Fauna. By. T. A: Forzes-Luita ann ‘ Rete oN Onc) CAMPBELL © Sqn or). 9 ne Set Penrreaponmence: 0 lei AR eR cat MS Nose dees lictovian | Tatueatist: 64 68 oh ~ a THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. oa oe TT ino we FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA. THE July nie meeting of the Club was held at the Royal Society’s Hall, on Monday evening, the 14th inst. There was a very large attend ane of members and friends, and the Rey. J. J. Halley, ‘president, occupied the chair. The hon. secretary, for the librarian, acknowledged the receipt of the following publications since the last meeting, viz. :—“ Proceed- ings of the Royal Society of Queensland, Part I. ;” “ Prodromus of the Zoology of Victoria, Decade IX. ;” and from Baron F. von Mueller, a copy of “ Forest Culture and Eucalyptus Trees,’ by Hlwood Cooper. The hon. secretary reported that the excursion to Oakleigh on June 14th, was rather poorly attended, and that the only plant of any note seen was the curious fern Schizea bifida. The excursion to Frankston on July Ist was well attended, and the results were very satisfactory, and were reported in full by Messrs. French and Best. The following ladies and gentlemen were unanimously elected menibers of the club :—Mrs. Robert Simson, Miss J. Clarke, Mrs. Jno. Simson, Miss Simson, Rev. Wm. M. Mackay Mieemace Mr. A. Christie, Mr. T. K. Marshall, and Master Dombrain. Papers were read as follows :—Notes on the Genus Uféricularia, by Mr. C. A. Topp, M.A. The writer described the peculiarities of this genus, of which there are three Victorian species, and by means of illustrations and drawings on the blackboard, demonstrated the structure of the utricles on the underground branches. These serve as traps for minute insects, crustaceans, &c:, and thus give the plants the character of being carnivorous. The species more particularly referred to in the paper, was U. later?fora, which is to be found in damp heathy spots about Caulfield, Oakleigh, &c. He also exhibited the utricles, &ec., as mounted objects, under the microscope. Dr. Dobson kindly read a paper by Micsdes: French and Best, “Notes on the Club Excursion to Frankston on July Ist.” This gaye a very interesting description of the various Ornithological and Botanical specimens seen or obtained during the day. Dr. T. P. Lucas made a few remarks on his recent trip to New Caledonia and Fiji, and promised a paper on his experiences for next meeting, The exhibits of the evening were as follows :—By Mr. P. Dattari, drawing of a gigantic cactus growing at Frankston ; by Mr. J. E. Dixon, ten species of birds collected at Beaconsfield on Separation Day, viz., Myzantha garrula, (Garrulous Honey-eater) ; W hite- eared Honey-eater (Piilotis leucotis); Tasmanian Honey-eater (Lichmera Australasiana); Pied Robin, male and _ female, (Melanodryus picata); Flame-breasted Robin (Petrotca phanicia); Scarlet-breasted Robin (Petrocca multicolor); Tawny Shouldered 58 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. Podargus (Podargus strigoides); Rosehill Parrakeet (Platycercus extmius): Sparrow-hawk ; and Collared Crow-shrike; by Mr. C. Vrench, Exotic and Australian Coleoptera, family Lucanide, &e. ; by Mr. J. H. Gatliff, Victorian Shells, four species of genus Cassis, viz. C. fimbriata, and C. pyrum, from Portland, C€. semigranata, from Rosebud, and C. Achatina, from Western Port ; by Mr. T. A. F. Leith, four species of British birds, viz., Ring Ouzel (Turdus torquatus); The Dipper (Cinctus aquaticus); Water Kail (Rallus aquaticus); Purple Sandpiper (Tringa maritima) ; four species of American birds—Cow Bunting (Molothrus pecoris); Blue Robin (Sialia Sialis); Chewink (Pzpilo erythropthalmus); Great Flycatcher (Aiijiarchus erinitus) ; five species of Australian birds—F airy Prion (Prion artel) ; New Holland Snipe (Gallinago australis); Crescent marked Oriole (Mimeta flavocincta) ; Red Capped Dottrel, male and female, and Pallid Cuckoo; by Dr. T. P. Lucas, 180 species of Lepidoptera, &c., also pigeons and parrots, from New Caledonia and Fiji; by Baron F. von Mueller, the rare orchid, Dendrobium spectabile, from the Solomon Islands, in flower; by Mr. F. M. Reader, mounted specimens of New Zealand mosses, &c.; by Mr. O. A. Sayce, Tasmanian (oleoptera; by Mr. C. A. Topp, dried specimens of Utricularia dichotoma and lateriflora, anatomical and microscopical drawings of U. lateriflora, and micro- scopic slide of Utricles of U. laterdfora, in illustration of paper ; by Mr. T. Worcester, three rare species of Mollusca, Voluta sophia, and V. macgillivrayi, from Torres Straits, and Ancillaria glabrata, from West Indies. After the usual conversazione the mecting terminated. THE BALLARAT FIELD CLUB AND SCIENCE SOCIETY. Tum annual meeting of the Ballarat Field Club and Science Society took place at the Society’s rooms, School of Mines, Lydiard-street, on Friday evening, the 20th June. -The president, Mr. James Oddie, occupied the chair. We regret that our exceedingly limited space will not permit us to give the President’s address ¢n extenso, but are glad to note that the Society is in a healthy state. It now possesses 51 subscribing and 11 honorary members, and has a balance in hand. The Presi- dent for the ensuing year is Mr. James Oddie. J.P., the Vice- Presidents, Messrs R. Lewis, J.P., and A. Mica Smith, B.Se., and the Secretary, Mr. F. M. Krause, F.G.S. aw THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 59 OBITUARY NOTICE. WE deeply regret to have to record the death of Mr. James F. Bailey, our librarian, and one of the most prominent members of the Field Club, at the comparatively early age of 43. The loss to the colony of such an enthusiastic and successful naturalist has been lamented in the public journals, and a fitting tribute paid to his memory. The sciences to which he devoted himself more particularly were paleontology and conchology. These he followed with an eagerness and energy all his own, and with signal success. He had probably a more complete practical knowlege of the Victorian Mollusca —hboth inland and marine—than any other worker in the colony. Many of the fine fossil specimens in our National Museum were obtained by him, and Professor M‘Coy, in recog- nition of his services, has dedicated to him a species of whale whose ear and other bones Mr. Bailey discovered near Mordi- alloc. He maintained an extensive correspondence with naturalists ef note in Sydney and Adelaide, and his work was recognised not only in the Australian colonies, but also in England and on the continent. His death was doubtless caused by the effects of expvsure whilst recently working a newly discovered fossiliferous deposit on the coast near Frankston. The members of the Club will especially feel the loss of so diligent a worker, who was able and willing to exhibit so liberally objects of interest at our conversaziones, and at all times ready to afford valuable information on shells and fossils. ORCHIDEZ OF VICTORIA. By C. Faencu, Government Botanist’s Department. (4th Paper. THeLymitra (Forster.) Sepals and petals all nearly equal and spreading, column erect, rather short, very broadly winged, anther erect or bent forward between the lateral lobes, or under the hood, pollen masses granular, without any, or with a small caudicle, terrestrial herbs glabrous, or very rarely pubescent on the leaf sheaths, with ovoid underground tubers, leaf solitary, usually with rather long sheath, the lamina linear, lanceolate, or rarely almost ovate, often thick, empty bracts 1 or 2 along the stem, flowers usually several in a terminal raceme, sometimes reduced to. 1 or 2, blue, purple, red or yellow, occasionally with white varieties. 609 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST, This is a very fine and showy genus, all of the Victorian species being of the easiest cultivation. I have divided it into sections, in accordance with the arrangement in the “ Flora,” as I dare say it will render the examination of the species somewhat easier. Section 1. CucuLiaria. Column-wing produced behind and beyond the anther into a broad hood over it, variously lobed or fringed at the top. Thelymitra aristata (Lindley.) This common though lovely Species is, perhaps, the finest of the whole genus, the color being of a beautiful bluish violet. In some favoured spots this plant may be found in hundreds, and often two feet high, and these on a sunny day when in full bloom are a sight worth seeing, even to the most casual observer. This species is known to colonists as the Native Hyacinth, (I have certainly seen more absurd names given to plants than this one), and it may be looked for in all sorts of country, whether in heathy swamps, grass or forest land, stony rises, and in fact, nearly everywhere, although I have found the largest and handsomest specimens generally in damp, sandy soil. It is very easily grown as a pot plant, and it can be removed without difficulty. The best plan which I have found to grow it well, is to lift the plants before they come into bloom, and flower them in the pot, say 6 or 8 plants in one large (8 inch) pot, use plenty of drainage, and water rather sparingly, gradually witholding it as the blooms begin to fade. If properly attended to, it will flower year after year as well if not better, than when in its native situation. I wish to be understood that it is always preferable (if possible) to obtain the tubers whilst in the dormant state, but this can only be done by marking the places where the plants grow, a somewhat vague method, as when one goes to look for the place where he marked his Orchid, he may find a four-roomed cottage erected on the very spot, with a corresponding notice to trespassers in the vicinity. I must here confess that the difference in some of the species in this genus completely puzzle me, and I have to seek the scientific aid of the Baron to satisfy myself as to their identity. Flowers in October and November. Forms of this species are found in South and Western Australia, and in Tasmania. T. ixioides (Swartz.) This beautiful Orchid is much rarer than either T. longifolia, T. aristata, or T. antennifera, being found but very sparingly near Melbourne. The stem is from 6 to 18 inches high, the flowers standing out very prominently from the spike, after the manner of T. epipactoides, a species which I shall mention further on. The flower is of a fine bluish purple, and very often the sepals are marked with a plum-colored blotch or spot, but the specimen here shown, Mr. Sullivan informs me, was quite plain, and I am not quite certain whether the typical color be spotted or plain. I have usually found it marked. It may be readily dis- tinguished from T, aristata, by its more slender shape, although it shows signs of many points of variation, many of which can readily be THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 61 detected by observation-in the field. The flowers are borne ona spike, to the number of one or two, and I believe, even three on isolated specimens. Sepals, petals "and labellum, elliptical- oblong column about 2 lines long, anther produced into an incurved point much longer than the rostellum. In the country around Oakleigh and Dandenong, this species used to be found, though sparingly, but for years I have never found one, and. I am indebted to my friend Mr. Sullivan, of Moystun, for the specimen now exhibited. This. species thrives well in sandy loam, and requires a little shade when in flower. TT. ixioides, and T. juncifolia, are identical with this species. ‘Found in Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, and in Western Australia.’ Flowers in October. TL. epipactoides (¥. Mueller.) This very | oaniiscane Orchid which has of late been found rather plentifully in the Cheltenham district, is one of the most beautiful of the Australian Terrestrial species. The color of flower is ofa light pinkish brown, a very free bloomer, and of the easiest cultivation. The appearance of the plant is like T. aristata, and it certainly approaches nearer to that species than -to T. ixioides. The leaves are very broad, ribbed as in nearly all the larger species of this genus. Mr. Bentham remarks, “ Flora Australiensis,” page_318, that this species is perhaps a mere variety o! 'T. ixioides, but I fancy that could he see it growing, he would be melined to alter his opinion, and place it with the Baron, as a distinct species. To grow it well, sandy loam should be used, with plenty of pot room, keep somewhat damp whilst growing, and when coming into flower the full sun-lght will be necessary for the proper expansion of the blooms. I know of few prettier tubers than this plant if properly grown, and during a recent visit of the Club to Brighton, a number of specimens were found, and quite surprised some of the members who had not seen it before. This species should ‘be looked for in damp flats amongst the Epacris scrubs. I have not found it far from the sea coast. Height of plant-and spike, from 1 to 2 feet. Flowers in October. I am not aware whether this species has been found out of our own colony. Thelymitra longifolia (Forster.) A very pretty species, with long narrow leaves, and the whole plant and spike having a somewhat “drawn up” appearance. In the scrub lands at Caulfield, Brighton, Cheltenham, &e., and on the grassy hills of Berwick, &c., I have seen the plant growing by the hundred, and it seems to be equally at home in any ordinary soil. The flowers on this species are few, and rather large for the slender appearance of the stem, the color is purple, and often pinkish white, and even pure white varieties are to be met with. This species seems to seed very freely, as young plants in certain localities seem to be coming up in all directions. Column-wing produced behind and over the anther into a broad hood. This species when in the young state, is often mistaken for seedling plants of T. aristata, but it is easily distinguished when in flower. Treatment same as that of the former species. T. pauciflora, 62 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. T. arenaria, and T. versicolor, and T. graminea, are synonyms of this species. Flowers in October and November. Found in Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, South and Western Australia, and according to a list which I have received of the Orchids of New Zealand, it has been found in that colony also. This will conclude the Victorian species in the seetion Cucullaria. Section 2. Macponapia. Thelymitra antennifera (Hooker. This charming tliough eommon species, is so well-known to most of you that a lengthy description seems to me almost unnecessary. Stem ereet, purplish, wiry, and from 8 to 8 inches high, with the narrow linear rather thick, leaves of carnea and flexuosa, but stouter than in the latter species. Flowers 1, 2, or rarely 3, yellow, (highly scented,) and larger than those of T. carnea, but smaller than those of T. flexuosa, column-wing's with erect, dark-colored lateral appendages. In the heath country, almost throughout the whole colony, this universal favourite is to be met with, often in large numbers, and to see it peeping out from amongst the beautiful Caladenia deformis reminds one of the lovely crocus borders of the old country. I know of no other Terrestrial Native Orchid which is so highly seented as is this species, and as it dries well, and is easily grown, it is, as I have before remarked, a great favourite with collectors of native plants. To grow it well, place say 20: tubers in a deep, small seed pan, use black, sandy soil with plenty of water when coming into flower. This plant, whieh was formerly known by the name of Macdonaldia antennifera, sp. (Lindley), is found in Victoria, South and Western Australia. Flowers in September and October. Thelymitra McMillani (F. Mueller.) A rare and _ beautiful species. Discovered first by Mr. Thomas MeMaillan, late of our Technological Museum, and one of our most respected horti- culturalists, whilst botanizing in the ranges called Mt. Martha, on the shores of our Bay. The specimen was submitted to Baron von Mueller, who at once recognised it as a new species, and named it after its discoverer. I forget the year in which it was found, but I think about 1862, and this was the only specimen taken, but a few years later, I, in company with Mr. C. Merton, of Law, Somner and Co., of this city, found another plant beautifully in flower. This was found between Frankston and Mt. Eliza, and the specimen was presented by me to the Baron, who | believe, sent it to Dr, Hooker. This Orchid is quite distinct in appearance from any of our native species, although it seems to me to approach nearer to T. carnea than to any other species. The color is a deep purple lake, and as you will see by the specimen (kindly sent to me by Mr. Sullivan, who has again found several plants in his district), it dries well. I have never tried to grow it, but I should think that the treatment of T. carnea would suffice for this species. Mr. Bentham thinks that it may possibly be a hybrid, but of this I am not competent to form an opinion. Found in Victoria, by Messrs. MeMillan, THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 63 French, and McKibbon, (Maryborough district). I am not aware whether it has been found out of the colony. Thelymitra carnea (R. Brown.) Stem slender, often flexuose, from under 6 inches to 1 foot high, with 1 to 3 pink flowers, the leaf narrow linear, and 1 or 2 bracts sometimes leaf like, sepals and petals oval, elliptical or oblong, column nearly half as long as the perianth, anther—connective, produced beyond the cells, but broad and obtuse. This pretty and not very common species, should be looked for mostly on damp heathy flats, and it is also met with in damp, hilly places in the vicinity of mountains. The color ranges from a pale flesh up to a light magenta, and in some cases waen growing in strong loam, it approaches very near to T. McMillani in color and general appearance. In former years, this little Orchid was some- what common in the vicinity of Brighton, Caulfield, Dandenong, &c. but of late years it, as well as many other plants, has become some- what rare and difficult to find. Asa pot plant for a collection, it is very interesting, but it has a very provoking habit of unfolding its blooms very imperfectly, althought if plenty of light is provided, it will appear (if only for a few hours) in full bloom. To grow it well, black sandy loam seems to be best suited to its successful culture, plenty of water whilst growing, full light, nlenty of drainage aud proper rest for the tubers when past flowering. This species seeds very freely, and I hope on some other occasion to offer a few remarks on the fruiting of our Terrestrial Orchids, a sulject, which I believe, has received very little attention, but having grown and flowered nearly 70 species, I have been able to make a few obser- vations on the subject. Flowers in November and December. Found also in New South Wales, Tasmania, and South Australia. Thelymitra flecuosa (Kndlicher.) Stems slender, and usually wiry and flexuose, from 6 to 9 inches high, leaf narrow linear, rather thick, and the empty bracts sometimes leaf-like, flowers 1 and 2, yellow, smaller than in the other species, the sepals obtuse, column- wing continued behind the anther, but only half its length, anther produced into a thick, pubescent appendage. A singular little species, flowering late in the season, often in January. It may be readily distinguished from T. antennifera by its much paler color, smaller flowers, and less prominent lateral appendages. I had the honor of finding this species for the first time near Melbourne nearly 18 years ago at Caulfield, when Baron von Mueller kindly named the specimen for me I had looked in vain for it during many years, but only succeeded in finding it again a few years since at Klsternwick, when I was much pleased to renew my acquaintance with this pretty Orchid. Ina collection of Terrestrial Orchids, this species should form a good companion for T. antennifera, carnea, McMillani, and other slender growing kinds. To cultivate it, use black, sandy loam, plenty of water, and the treatment for the former smaller species will also suffice for this one. 64: THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST: Thelymitra concolor, Macdonaldia concolor, and Thelymitra smithiana, are synonymous with this species. Found also in Tasmania and Western Australia. VICTORIAN FAURA. CLASS Il. AVES—BIRDS i By T. A. Forsms-Leirg anp A. J. CampBELu. ——<—<— ne Aquila audax. Lath. Wedge-tailed Eagle. Haliztus leucogaster. Gmel. White-bellied Sea Hagle. Haliastur sphenurus. Viedll. Whistling Eagle. Pandion leucocephalus. Gld. White-headed Osprey. Falco hypoleucus.. Gld. Grey Falcon. », melanogenys. Gld. Black-cheeked Falcon. » Subniger. Gild. Black Falcon. » lunulatus. Lath. White-tronted Falcon. Hieracidea orientalis. Schl. Western Brown Hawk. 10. mS berigora. Vig. and Hors. Brown Hawk. 11. Tinnunculus cenchroides. Vig.and Hors. Nankeen Kestrel. 12 Astur cinereus. Viel New-Holland Goshawk. 13. » Novee-Hollandie. Gmel. White Goshawk. 14. » approximans. Vig. and Hors. Australian Goshawk. * 15. » eruentus. Gld. West Australian Goshawk. 16. Accipiter cirrhocephalus. Vzerll. Collared Sparrowhawk. 17. Gypoictinia melanosternon. Gld. Black-breasted Buzzard. 18. Milvus affinis. Gld. Alled Kite. 19. Lophoictinia isura. Gld. Square-tailed Kite. 20. Hlanus axillaris. Zath. Black-shouldered Kite. SP Pel So OS Co 21, » seriptus. Gld. Letter-winged Kite. 22. Circus Gouldii. Bon. Allied Harrier. 23. » assimilis. Jard. and Selb. Jardine’s Harrier. 24. Strix Nove-Hollandie. Steph. Masked Owl. 25. », castanops Gld. Chestnut-faced Owl. 26. », tenebricosa. Gld. Sooty Owl. 27. », fammea, L. (sub. sp. ‘“delicatula”) Delicate Owl. ~ 28. Ninox strenua. Gld. Poweiful Owl, (or Great Owl of the Brushes.) 29. 3 connivens. ath: Winking Owl. 30. », boobook. Lath. Boobook Owl. 31. » maculata. Vig. and Hors. Spotted Owl. 32. ». Cigotheles Nove-Hollandie. Owlet Night-jar. 33. Podargus strigoides. Lath. Tawny-shouldered Podargus. 34, i Cuvieri. Vig. and Hors. Cuvier’s. Podargus. 35. Eurostopodus albogularis. Vig. and Hors. White-throated. Nightjar. 36. _ guttatus. Vig. and Hors. Spotted Nightjar.» THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 65 Chetura caudacuta. Lath. Spine-tailed Swift. Cypselus Pacificus. Lath. Australian Swift. Hirundo frontalis. Quoy and Gaim. Welcome Swallow. Hydrochelidon nigricans. Vell. Tree Swallow. Lagenoplastes Ariel. Gld. Fairy Martin. Cherameca leucosternon. Gld. White-breasted Swallow. Merops ornatus. Lath. Australian Bee-eater. Eurostomus Pacificus, Zath. Australian Roller (Doller Bird Dacelo ee Bodd. Great Brown Kingfisher (Laughing Jackass) Halcyon sanctus. Vig. and Hors. Sacred Kingfisher. » pyrrhopygius. Gld. Red-backed Kingfisher. Alcyone azurea. Lath. Azure Kingfisher. Artamus sordidus. Lath. Wood Swallow. » personatus. Gld. Masked Wood Swallow. superciliosus. Gld. | White-eye-browed Wood Swallow. » leucopygialis. Gld. White-rumped Wood Swallow Pardalotus punctatus. Temm. Spotted Pardalote (Diamond Bird. i mind Temm. Striated Pardalote (Diamond Bird.) affinis. Gld. Allied Pardalote, (Diamond Bird.) xanthopygialis. McCoy. Yellow-rumped Pardalote (Diamond Bird.) Strepera graculina. White. Pied Crow-shrike. af fuliginosa, Gld. Sooty Crow-shrike. x arguta. Gld. Hill Crow-shrike. a anaphonensis. Tem. Grey Crow-shrike. Gymnorhina tibicen Lath. Piping Crow-shrike. (Magpie.) » leuconota. Gld. White-baecked Crow-shrike Cracticus robustus. Lath. Black-throated Crow-shrike “3 torquatus. Lath. Collared Crow-shrike. Grallina picata. ath. Pied Grallina (Magpie Lark.) Grauculus melanops. Lath. Black-faced Grauculus. - mentalis. Vig. and Hors. Varied Grauculus. Pteropodocys phasianella. Gld. Ground Grauculus. Campephaga Jardin. Riipp. Jardine’s Campephaga. PS humeralis. Gld. White-shouldered Campephaga. Pachycephala gutturalis. Zath. White-throated Thickhead. rufiventris, Lath. Rufous-breasted Thickhead. rufogularis. Gtd. Red-throated Thickhead. a Gilberti. Gld. Gilbert’s Thickhead. %3 olivacea. Vig.and Hors, Olivaceous Thickhead. Colluricincla harmonica. Zath. Harmonious Shrike-thrush. Falcunculus frontatus. Lath. Frontal Shrike-tit. Oreoica cristata. Lewin. Crested Oreoica. 29 9 Be) oP) THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. Rhipidura albiseapa. Gld. White-shafted Fantail. * rufifrons. Lath. Rufous-fronted Fantail. Sauloprocta motacilloides. Vig. and Hors. Black Fantail. Seisura inquieta. Lath. Restless Flycatcher. Miagra plumbea. Vig and Hors. Leaden-coloured Fly-catcher. ; 5 tubecula. Zath. Shining Fly-catcher. Micreca fascinans, Lath. Brown Fly-catcher. Monarcha carinata. Swain. . Carinated F1)-catcher. Gerygone fusca. Gld. Brown Gerygone. Smicrornis brevirestris. Gld. Short-billed Smicrornis. Krythrodryas rhodinogaster. Drap. Pink-breasted Wood Robin. - rosea. Gld. Rose-breasted Wood Robin. Petreca multicolor. Vig. and Hors. Scarlet-breasted Robin. Bs Goodenoyii. Vig. and Hurs. Red-capped Robin. i phenicea. Gld. Wlame-breasted Robin. Melanodryas cucullata Zath. Hooded or Pied Robin. Drymodes brunneopygia. G@Jld. Scrub Robin. Eopsaltria Australis. Zath. Yellow-breasted Robin. Monura Victoriz. Gd. Queen Victoria’s Lyre-Bird. Psophodes crepitans. Vig. and Hours. Coach-whip Bird. Sphenostoma cristata. Gld. Crested Wedge-bill. Malurus cyaneus. Lath. Blue Wren or Superb Warbler. i longicaudus. Gld Long-tailed Superb Warbler. vs melanotus. Gld. Black-backed Superb Warbler. i Lamberti. Lambert’s Superb Warbler. 3 leucopterus. Quny. and Gaim. White-winged Superb Warbler. Amytis textilis. Quwoy. and Gaim. Textile Wren, i striatus. Gd. Striated Wren. Stipiturus malachurus. Lath. Emu Wren. Sphenura brachyptera. Lath. Bristle Bird. a Broadbenti. McCoy. Rufous-headed Bristle Bird. Hylacola pyrrhopygia. Vig. and Hors. Red-rumped Hylacola Pycnoptilus floccosus. Gld. Downy Pycnoptilus. Cisticola exilis. ath. Exile Grass Warbler. . lineocapilla, Gld. Lineated Grass Warbler. H ruficeps. Gld. Rufous-headed Grass Warbler. Sericcrnis humilis. Gld. Sombre-coloured Sericornis. a osculans, Gid. Allied 3 a frontalis Vig. and Hors. White-fronted ,, i maculatus. Gld, Spotted Acanthiza pusilla. Zath. Little Brown Acanthiza. “ uropygialis. Gld. Chestnut-rumped _,, pyrrhopygia. Gld. Red-rumped i fs nana. Vg, and Hors. Little K ‘5 lineata. Gld, Striated Acanthiza. 124. 125. 126. 127. 128. 129. 130. 131. 132. 133. 134. 135. 136. 137. 138. 139. 140. 141. 142. 143. 144. 145. 146. 147. 148. 149. 150. 151. 152. 153. 154. 155. 156. 157. 158. 159. 160. Aoye 162. 163. 164. 165. THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 67 Geobasileus chrysorrhea. Quoy. and Gaim. Yellow-rumped Geobasileus. reguloides. Vig. and Hors. Buff-rumped _,, Ephthianura albifrons. Jar. and Selb. White-fronted Ephthianura. aurifrons. (Gld. Orange-fronted ue He tricolor. Gid. Tri-colored Xerophila leucopsis Gld. White-faced Xerophila. Pyrrholemus brunneus. Gild. Red Throat. Calamanthus fuliginosus. Vig. and Hors. Striated Cala- manthus. " capestris. Field Calamanthus. Chthonicola sagittata. Lath. Little Chthonicola. Anthus Australis. Vig. and Hors. Australian Pipit. Cincloramphus cruralis Brown Cincloramphus. e cantillans. Gld. Black-breasted 2 Ptenedus rufescens. Vig. and Hors. Rufous-tinted _,, Spheneacus galaetotes. Temm. Tawny Grass-bird. hs gramineus. Gid. Little 8 Calamoherpe Australis. G/d. Reed Warbler. Mirafra Horsfieldii. Gld. Horsfield’s Bush Lark. Kstrilda (Zoneginthus) bella. Lath. Fire-tailed Finch. (Aigintha) temporalis. Lath. Red-eye-browed _,, (Aidemosyne) modesta. Gld. Plain-colored Bs (Stagonopleura) guttata. Shaw. Spotted-sided __,, (Teniopygiz) castanotis. Gld. Chestnut-eared _,, Cinclosoma punctatum. Lath. Spotted Ground Thrush. castaneonotum. Gd. Chestnut-backed ,, A cinnamomeum. Gld. Cinnamon-colored ,, Oreocincla lunulata. Lath. Mountain Thrush. Ptilonorhynchus holosericeus. Kuhl, Satin Bower-bird. Chlamydodera malculata. Gld. Spotted Mimeta viridis. Lath. New South Wales Oriole. Corcorax melanorhamphus. Véee7l/. White-winged Cough Struthidea cinerea. Gild. Grey Struthidea. Corvus Australis’ Gmel. White-eyed Crow. coronoides. Hazel-eyed Pomatostomus temporalis. Vig. and Hors. Temporal Pomatostomus. iy superciliosus. Vzg. and Hors. White-eyed- browed ia ruficeps. Hart. Chestnut-crowned ,, Meliornis Noyx-Hollandie. Lath. New-Holland Honey- Eater. 9) ? sericea. Gld. White-cheeked ma I. (Lichmera) Australasiana. Shaw. Tasmanian or Horse-shoe ss Glyciphila fulvifrons. Lewin Fulvous-fronted . v. albifrons. White-fronted HA 68 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 166. Ptilotis Lewinii.. Swain Lewin’s Honey-EHater . 167. » vVittata. Cuv. Singing 168.* ,,_— flavicollis. Veedll. Yellow- throated s 169. » leucotis. Lath. White-eared ot LOE » auricomis. Lath. Yellow-tutted a Ai/ale », (hichenostomus) cratitia. Gld. Wattle-cheeked ,, 2) » ornata. Gld. Graceful as WS » penicillata. G/d. White-plumed - 174. » tusea. Gild. Fuscous 175. » Chrysops. Lath. Yellow- faced. 2 176. cassidix. Jard. UHelmeted or Sub-crested IC Plectorhyncha lanceolata. Gld. lLanceolate ,, 178. Meliphaga phrygia. Zath. Warty-faced ,, 2? 179. Certhionyx leucomelas. Cur. Pied 4 180. Kntomophila picta. Painted 33 181, (Conophila) rufogularis. Red-throated ,, 182. Acanthogenys rufogularis. Gla. Spiny-cheeked % 183. nthochees carunculata. Lath. Watiled 2 or Wattle Bird. 184. Anellobia mellivora. ath. Brush Wattle Bird. 185. Philemon corniculatus. ath. Friar Bird or Leatherhead. 186. bs citreogularis. Gld. Yellow-throated Friar Bird. 187. Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris. Lath. Spine-billed Honey- eater. 188. Myzomela sanguinolenta. Lath. Sanguineous “ 189. nigra. Gild. Black . 190. Entomyza cyanotis. Swain Blue-faced 95 191. Melithreptus brevirostris. Veg. and Hors. Short-billed 9? 192. i gularis. Gld Black-throated MY 1938, ; lunulatus. Shaw. Lunulated 7 194. Myzantha garrula. Lath. Garrulous ,, or Miner. 195. ss flavigula. Gld. Yellow-throated Miner 196. Manorhina melanophrys. ath. Bell Bird. 197. Diceum hirundinaceum. Shaw. Swallow Diceum. 198. Zosterops cerulescens. Lath. Grey-backed Zosterops. 199. Climacteris scandens. Zemm. Brown Tree-creeper. . 200. es erythrops. Gild. Red-eye-browed ,, 201. AS leucophea. Lath. White-throated ,, * Gould’s Handbook, also Ramsay’s Tabular List. CORRESPONDENCE. Earty Frowerine or Native Puanms. I think it would make these columns more interesting if readers of the Naturalist would forward notes of the early flowering of our native plants, or early appearances of insects, or other similar notes on Natural History subjects. In connection with the above, whilst rambling along the banks of the Mullum Mullum Creek, Warran- dyte, on July 13th, I came upon two fine young trees of the Silver Wattle Acacia dealbata just bursting into blossom. CorREA. es. If pe ssible, the , Wellington Street, Collkendat O.¥re ach would be glad to® givey aut or. For 1, ene for r pee DS. ey _Austratian Eeon ni ee in micro- one 1 ae be a Hee te ae oe aturalist” would. es BK “Wald Soturlisl’ Oleb of Wictoris, , OFFICERS 1884-85, wT LPI OOO —‘Presivent : | ‘Rav. J, J HALLEY. ; ea Dive-Apresivents re ace phi Gea ear Nt OnE LEITH | Me. A. H. LUCAS. ‘Tasers ee! Mr, J. H. MATTHIAS. — aC ee Secretary + | | eee Mr. F. G. A. BARNARD, Kew. 2 Assistant Secretary : Mr. G. COGHILL. ‘Librartan: Me. J. Eo BATLEY. Wommittee . Mn. @.. FRENCH. Me. J. E, DIXON. oj /H. GATLIFE, yy Gn As CORE: Mr. f). BEST. PAG ACU eee ant Time of Ordinary Meetings—The Seeond Mondona in each Monti : Oe at. 8 p.m., Royal Society’ 5 Hall, Melbourne. as ; Subscription —— - - Ta Ten Shillings He annum, For the “ Victorian Naturalist,” Six Shillings per annum, or ane Non- Members Seven ‘Shillings. Post Free. i te ose ‘each article is. ‘res sponsible for the facts and ‘opinions he” ‘recors. (CONTENTS: Pile aN ee . J. Curren UA eedotes of Seals. by oA: ‘Fonuas Larrea, ‘FIELD ‘NATURALISTS’ a OF VICTORIA. Tue Monthly Meeting of the Club was held at the Royal Society’ s occupying the chair. __ The hon. librarian acknowledged the receipt of the following donations to the library since last meeting :—‘‘ Report of the Timker Board, Victorian Railways;” “ Report of the Department of ~ Agriculture for 1883 ; ene Report of the Microscopical Society of Victoria for 1883 ;’ > and « Report of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, U. S. A., for 1881.” _ The hon. secretary reported that the monthly excursion held at und in flower. “The president referred in feeling terms to the great loss the Club -and one of the original members, and trusted that the work commenced by him in the departments of conchology and paleon- tology, would be taken up by some other members. He also - announced that Mr. C. French had been elected librarian, and Mr. Hi. Watts to the vacancy on the Committee. _ The hon. secretary read the letter of condolence, which would be signed by the office-bearers and forwarded to Mrs. Bailey. > The Hon. R. Simpson and Mr, W. Allison Clarke were elected “members, and Dr. J. C. Cox, Sydney, and Dr. Otto Finsch, hon. members of the club; whilst three ladies and eight gentlemen were nominated for election at next meeting. rae LAE. paper, ‘Notes on Lyre Birds,” was promised by Mr. A. J- Campbell, for a future meeting. _ 1. Mr. Best read a paper for Mr. Dattari “On the ‘Lacomenen of Coleopterous Insects. This, it was explained, was the first of a series of four papers on the subject. In it, the writer described the _ structure of the antenne and their position in the different families of beetles, illustrating his remarks by enlarged drawings of the in his next paper. Several members took part in the discussion which followed, : Med with reiterence to whether the antenne could be termed organs of locomotion. 2. Mr. Campbell read a paper by Mr. F. H. Reed, of Evandale, Tasmania, e entitled, “ Notes on Tasmanian Snakes.” The writer, tated that he was familiar with four s species of snakes indigenous to Tasmania, He related several experiments which _he haa tried ee Maieiemmc wets Il, on Monday, the 11th inst., about forty-five members and — tors being present, and the President, the Rev. J. J. Halley, © Brighton, on 19th July, had been fairly attended, and the results very gratifying to those present, six species of orchids haying been — Set he tw “had sustained through the death of Mr. J. F. Bailey, the librarian, — aS _ yarious parts. He Shute that the use of the anibenna: was still a matter of doubt, but that he would treat more fully of the question — regard to the efiects of the poison and stated that_he believed [ae 70 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST action of the venom to be much more severe when naturally than when artificially injected, and that the quickness with which it acts depends upon the heat of the blood. - An interesting discussion took place after the reading of this” paper, which in the main sided with the author. The papers by Mr. Reader and Dr. Lucas, were postponed, owing to the lateness or the hour. The Chairman drew attention to a book by Galton, recently pub- lished in England, containing photographs of what are termed “type faces,’ and explained the method by which they were pro- ae: duced. The exhibits of the evening were as follow :—By Mr. D. ae Best, Victorian longicorn beetles ; by Mr A. J. Campbell, eggs of eI the Australian night-iars, viz., spotted night-jar (Hurostopedus = =~ gutiatus ), white-throxted night-jar (Z. albogularis ) and larg»-tailed . night-jar (Caprimulgus macrurus) ; by Mr. A. W. Coles, mounted Rose-hill parrakeet, and English stoat, mole and dipper ; by Mr P. < Dattari, Australian and Exotic Coleoptera in illustration of his paper; by Mr. J. E. Dixon, five species of Victorian birds, viz., wattled honey-eater (Anthochera carunculata),magpielark(Gralina picata), Pennant’s parrakeet (Platycercus Pennanti), Grey crow shrike (Strepera anaphonensis) and the silver gull; by Mr 7. A. Forbes-Leith, a splendidly mounted specimen of the white Goshawk (Astur Nove-Hollandic), also six species of American ‘birds, viz., golden-winged woodpecker (Colaptes auratus), downy woodpecker (Picus pubescens), shore lark (Alander alpesiris), white-throated Sparrow (Zonotinula albicoll’s), white-bellied nuthatch (Srtta - Carolinensis), and Red-bellied Nuthatch, (Svtta Canadensis) ; by Mr. C. French, the rare Queensland bettle Orycies Mueller?, also spring wild flowers from Brighton; by Mr. H. Kennon, curious lichen from Dandenong; by Mr. J. EH. Prince, entomological _ specimens ; and by Mr. T. Worcester, two specimens of the rare shell Conus cinereus trom New Guinea. — e After the usual conversazione the meeting terminated. BALLARAT FIELD CLUB. We append an account of the microscopical exhibits at the Annual Conyersazione of the above club, which we were unable from lack of space to insert in our last issue:—Mr. W. H. Wooster, M. Mic, Soc. Vie., showed stained plant sections e.g. juncus communis, clematis, scented oS op seated were Shewn stained red and blue, and also red a green) ; casuarina, pine, orange, Acacia mollissima; Hucalyptus globulus, poner, ord grass Time tree and Blackberry (these were stained red and ereen); pn ae plane tee stained with Gahsine). Also=leatiamoie Deutzia 4 with veins ee red andebhestieblaieshairs green. Mr A. mith, B. Se., exhibited a very beautiful sertes of specimetts of marine bryozoa 4emmeoxteP hillip Bay, viewed by Idinch objee- . prepared by Mr. Trelour.. He next lar tissue, «stemata, hairs, and pollen ; and finally a suite of conta of Protagoasizonusliges prepared ‘by Calyptorhynchus Banksii. Lath. Banksian Black solandr. Zemm.-“ueach’s jj + ,, funereus. Shaw. ‘Funeral ee i lloeeplivion © galeatum. Lath. Gang Gang — a Barrabandi. Swain. Barraband’s Parrakeet Pens. Vig. Black-tailed : ins ee Bechs. King cee HESS Platyeer s Barnardi. Vig. and Hors. Barnard’s Parabens zonarius. Shaw. Banded Parrakeet or Pt. Lincoln Peunantii. Lath. Pennant’s i flaveolus. Gld. Yellow-rumped bs eximius. Shaw. Rose Hill (Rosella) Psephotus hematogaster. Gld. Crimson-bellied ,, (var) xanthorrhous, Gld. Yellow-vented ,, multicolor, Zemm. Many-coloured Parrakeet. ren hematonotus. Gd. Red-rumped , Euphema yenusta. Temm. Blue-banded Grass os; elegans. Swain. Elegant 4, chrysogaster. Lath. Oranee helhede paki! 4, pulchella. Shaw. "Chectnut:shouldered sy S55 Bourkii. Gld. Bourke’s ‘ 55 Melopsittacus undulatus. Shaw. Warbling ,, “i Calopsittacus Nove-Hollandisw. Gml. Cockatoo Parakeet. _Pezophorus formosus. Lath. Ground or Swamp x . Lathamus discolor. Shaw. Swift Lorikeet. - Trichoglossus Nove-Hollandie. Gml. Blue Mountain or _ _ Swainson’s Gee (Glossopsitta) concinnus. Shaw. Musk 5 eis an oophye eala Dietr. Porphyry = crowned:| ae Z pusillus. Shaw. Little | oe ; ‘Chalcophaps Chrysochlora. Wagil. Little Green Pigeon. Leuecosarcia picata. Lath. Wonga Wonga Piecens Phaps chalcoptera. Lath. Bronze-wing ° elegans. Temm. ‘Brush Bronze- wing ,, mm. Crested Bronze-wing THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST Geopelia tranquilla. Gd. Peaceful Dove. . ‘ (Stictopelia) euneata. Lath. Little Turtle ,, Leipoa ocellata. Gld. Ocellated Leipoa, (Mallee Hen.) Turnix varius. Lath. Painted Quail e melanotus. Gld. Black-backed Turnix. sh velox. Gid. Swift-flying pyrrhothorax Gld. Chesnut- breasted a See anne torquatus. Gld. Collared Plain Wanderer. Coturnix pectoralis. Gid. Pectoral Quail. Synoicus Australis. Zath. Swamp - a Diemenensis. Gid. Tasmanian _,, 5s » sordidus. Gld. Sombre x $3 Execalfatoria Australis, Gl. Least - ” (King Quail.) © Dromais:Nove Hollantia: Loch. Huu. Eupodotis Australis. Gray. Bustard (Wild Tur pain be so dull in savage man, as compared to refined and ¢ vilized man ; how much more dull must it be in the non-reason- endowed brute, as compared with the reason-endowed savage. And all Nature bears out the correctness of this theory. Crabs, spiders, insects, &c., lose their legs, arms, claws, and apparently without inconvenience or discomfort. A worm is cut into two, wriggles and becomes two creatures instead of one. In fact, pain is not a cruelty inflicted upon Nature by a selfish Creator. It is an animal self- preservative and a moral refining attribute. It is developed only in proportion as it is needed for the protection and well-being, or for the intellectual and spiritual development of the creature, and is abundantly counterbalanced by the pleasures and enjoyments of existence. The Fijis are mostly of volcanic origin. The soil is deep and rich. The vegetation everywhere is rank and luxuriant, Trees of numerous and diyers-shaped leaves vary the scene. Limes, lemons, and shaddocks grow wild, and im the richest profusion. Cocoanut palms stud the sea coasts. Bananas are cultivated in great variety. The bread-fruit tree is plentiful around the native villages. Numerous varieties of Hzbiscus adorn the native homesteads. Many wax-like white flowers, arboreal and herbaceous, please the eye and perfume the air. Here wedding bouquets could be quickly arranged from Nature’s labyrinths. A combination of aromatic odours and spotless white. Life here lives rapidly. Origin, existence, death, and decay follow each other in quick succession. Pyrale moths in multitudes frequent the low and swampy ground. Up they rise as we carefully step over the grassy tussocks. Here is a large-sized specimen, with club-shaped patterns printed onthe front wings. There a delicate white plume. Therea golden orange. There a pearly white. There a black chimney sweep. And there a minutesimal, patterned like a pheasant’s tail. Tussocks of ferns and reed-like plants give shelter to silvery y’s, rich orange, dark brown, wainscoat marbled, and other species of Noctue moths. While beautiful Kuplea butterflies, and brown and blue Danaide gracefully play among the flowers. Anxious to see the interior, and there being no roads in Fiji, I had to follew the example of all explorers and avail myself of a water way. I elected to ascend the Rewa river. ‘This I did, as far as the mount- ains. The river is broad, and in some places deep. Sharks and dog-fish lurk near the mouth. Fresh-water species are found higher up, and often make a meal of the natives when bathing. Fish swarm, A species of lobster is highly prized by the natives. Fresh- 94. THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. water mussels of different species abound; and heaps of shells remind one of the shell mounds of primitive man. Bamboos come floating down the river. At first as we ascend the banks are flat. This country is the seat of the sugar industry. A splendid climate and soil for the same, but not I think at present likely to make the fortunes of adventurers. All social and political niatters are at sixes and sevens and in one vast unrest. I sailed up the Rewa in a native canoe, with two Fijian boys. We passed a beautiful banyan tree. Its branches covered nearly half an acre. Within was a spacious reception hall, such as might have gladdened the hearts of Hereward or Robin Hood. Branches and trunks in- tertwined in all directions. | had no difficulty in scaling these natural ladders. Delicate orchids, reminding one of the lily of the valley, grew in dense clusters. Luxuriant polypodies, graceful aspleniums, grass-like Schizeas and other ferns, hung from the crevices. Delicate and choice clubmosses waved in the breeze. In fact, this magnificent tree was one mass of vivid green. It was loaded with flowers, ferns, clubmosses, lichens, mosses, and fungi. Beautiful parrots lodged in its branches. Gentle pigeons chose its shelter for a resting place. Beneath and around were their feeding grounds, the sugar cane fields, and bordermg copse. Two species of ants swarm in Fiji, You shoot one of these honey-feeding parrots, and lay it down on a table, or hang it up suspended by a string. In a few minutes its mouth is full of ants sucking the sugar juice as it drops from the everted- crop. You catch some lovely moths, put them in your collecting box, and in a few minntes they have dis- appeared ; picked to pieces by swarms of ants as minute as a pin’s head. You seek to avoid the recurrence of this misfortune, and pin a number of specimens in an air-tight box. In a day or two you open your box to put by more specimens, and oh, sorrow, all are one mass of mould. You go to a copse, and beneath the pleasant shade of overhanging trees you watch the thick underscrub. Before you is a moth, with wings set and at rest. Oh how fine. Here is a rarity. Take care. You advance cautiously. You strike. The moth remains on the leaf. Puzzled you look, and lo, the glorious catch is a delusion. The specimen is dead. But agglutinated to the leaf, and curiously patterned by a prolific and hardening fungus. No ants seem to have pluck to attack. No spiders appear to covet the meal. And there in the midst of rapid decay, this moth remains mumuified. I saw several moths thus attacked and embalmed. As we approach more hilly parts, steep cliffs with dripping water, give homestead to trembling maidenhairs, two species very common. Here and there waterfalls delight the eye and cool the atmosphere. Graceful tree ferns flutter their fair y-like fronds in the breeze, Slender palms nod their waving crests, or give forth the aroma of curious and beautiful clusters of flowers. Black green hymeno- phyllums stud the damp ground, Or the more delicate ones cover THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 9 . Cr the face of rocks, or cling gently to the trunksof trees. Sphagnums, hypnums and jungermannias form mossy beds, which are the fairy homes of tree orchids, lycopods, and lovely ferns. As we follow the rippling brook, and jump from stone to stone, fresh forms con- tinuously meet our gaze. ‘Tall and slender tresses of orchids bend over the stream. Erect and wax-like coloured spikes seek shade in the dense undergrowth. Most delicate habenarias and allied genera tempt a patient search. Vines and convolvuluses and a host of creepers make locomotion difficult and dangerous. Rubi, with their thorn covered branches, tear the clothes and the hands. ‘Tall tree- like nettles, by their grace and assumed innocence beguile and punish. Keep off, savenaki, savenaki, cries the black attendant. You brush past, thinking you've escaped the danger, when a host of stings fall upon you. Alas, to make themselves felt after you believed yourself safe. One sea captain professed to be very bold. He got a bunch and carried it in his hat. Very soon his face gave indications of a coming storm. Plucky and proud, he held back his feelings. But ere long, little streams of blood began to trickle down his temples, And the proud captain had to yield, and promise never again to play with Nature’s gay deceivers. Scratched with brambles ; stung by nettles; a mustard poultice along the neck and_ back, through a multitute of minute insects shaken from fronds of the large woody ferns ; hung and struggling in matted labyrinths of vines and creepers, slipping and falling on wetted clay, and yet lured on by the ever changing scenes iof this earthly paradise. With one breath shouting for joy, with the next swearing with vexation. At one moment making headway, the next hanging and helpless. Now picking bunches of some new fern, then prostrate and bruised in the midst of it all. Perspiration poured off like a river. One moment striving to sing with joy, the next panting and struggling for breath. But eventually, patience and perseverance reward the effort. AsI erept up this bewitching dell, new trophies continually re- warded the struggle. Creeping polypodies, leathery and pinnatifid aspleniums, most glorious selaginellas, pretty grasses delighted the gaze. Many varieties gracefully adorned the trunks of the woodland trees. Others sought the dark shelter of the dense undergrowth. The exquisite gem known as the God's Fern spread its luxuriant wreaths from limb to limb, and from tree to tree. My native boys caught the spirit of the inspiration. They quickly sighted new forms, and cat-like, sprang up the tall tree trunks to secure valued specimens. I was bewildered. Lost in amaze and wonder. But oh, with riches come troubles. No sooner gathered than the beautiful ferns curl up and wither and die. ‘Tis useless to seek to make a fairy bouquet. You must carry a portfolio, and pass the ferns at once into your botanical press. But oh, what a pile! and all needing to be changed every few hours. If not, they become specimens of mould and moisture. Beautiful fairyland. In its re- 96 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. cesses shades of beauty and peace. In its open glades floods of sunshine and glory. Beautiful dragon-flies dance oyer the babbling brook. Gay-bodied flies or gentle bees hum in time to its peaceful murmurs. Swallow-tailed moths disturbed from their silent day- dreams soar to the trees for a safer shelter, Pretty birds chirp, and golden pigeons bark like dogsin the branches overhead. Crimson- winged bombyces feed on the choicest fruits. Delicious perfumes gladden the senses, lovely fairyland delights the heart. But, ladies and gentlemen, words would fail to pencil the landscape ; imagery would be futile to reproduce the scenes. And so, till next we meet, T can but wish you pleasant dreams, and snatches of ideal enjoyment from this earthly paradise. ANIMAL INTELLIGENCE. Just now the subject of Animal Intelligence is receiving a severely scientific, and therefore hopeful, treatment at the hands of Dr. G. J. Romanes. To this eminent Biologist, well-known for work in comparative physiology, Darwin made over “ all the notes and clipp- ings” on the subject which he had been collecting for forty years. This mass of material formed a substantial basis of facts; and weekly almost in ‘ Nature” appear guaranteed observations from nearly all parts of the world. Dr. Romanes’ first volume has been published in the International Scientific Series, and will be probably soon followed by another The intelligence of some groups of Vertebrates can be better studied in Australia than anywhere else. Not a word occurs in Dr. Romanes’ book on tho intelligence of the Platypus or Echidna, and a page suffices for the marsupials. It acer a great gain to science, (and incidentally to the pages of the “ Naturalist,”) if squatters and other country readers of this journal could supply well-authenticated instances of ‘sense’ shown by any of these creatures. As the lowest mammals, their minds are of particular interest ‘Tamed, and so trained, individuals would be most likely to furnish such instances, Again, the education of parrots from early infancy is practised by numbers in this colony, and is impracticable in Europe. Careful observations, soberly narrated, would yield information which those working at home would thank us for extremely. We shall be very glad to receive and publish any such facts which might throw light on this fascinating and really important subject.—Ep. : 3 ( abt Fi evel 8 2 Me f H. GATLIEF. (oy AB DIXON. 3 UA TORPe oe “MR. A, WAS. } Time of Ordinary Meeting ~s— The Savond Monday in each Month, at 8: Pp m., Royal Society's ae Melbourne. . C3 Subscription e 5 SiGe os Ten Shillings per annum x = For the ‘“ Victorian Naturalist,” Six Shillings per annum, ore ‘ Non-Members Seven SI ulling’s. Post Bree. see Ney apo RhoHloondion, By Banox us cain Bi: _ PRIN ER, EAREN DOS st. THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 97 FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB OF VICTORIA. Tux monthly meeting of the Club was held at the Royal Society’s Hall, Melbourne, on Monday evening, October 13th, 1884. Mr. T. A. Forbes-Leith, vice-president, occupied the chair, and about sixty members and visitors were present. Correspondence was read from the Minister of Lands, stating that instructions had been issued to prosecute persons destroying trees, &c., in Studley Park. From Mr. A. J. Campbell, suggesting a camping out expedition on Prince of Wales’ Birthday, at the Olinda Creek, near Lilydale. It was decided to form a party as proposed. The hon. secretary reported that the monthly excursion held a3 Cheltenham was well attended, and the members fairly successful in their search for specimens. The hon. librarian stated that the committee having decided to add some works of reference to the club’s library, he would be glad to receive suggestions as to suitable books. Dr. Dobson announced that as Baron von Mueller had undertaken the compilation of a students’ Victorian Botany, the proposed depu- tation to the Royal Society had been postponed for the present. The following ladies and gentlemen were elected members of the club :—Miss Halley, Miss E. Halley, Miss Hood, and Messrs. C. Chandler, Wm. Patterson, and G. Rose. Papers for future meetings were promised by Messrs. Best and French, ‘ Notes of Trip to Mulwala;” by Mr. H. Watts, ‘“‘On Staining Vegetable Tissues ;” by Mr. F. M. Reader, ‘Notes on the Plhanerogamous Plants of Studley Park.” Papers read—1. Mr. Reader gaye a very interesting paper “‘ On the History of Botany before the time of Linneus,” in which he traced the growth of that study from the earliest times, and mentioned the various writers who had left records of their work. 2. Mr C. French contributed the fifth part of his paper on the Orchids of Victoria, in which he described the following species :— Diwis sulphurea, D. pedunculata, Cryptostylis longifolia, Orthoceras strictum, Prasophyllum elatum, and P. flavum, and exhibited dried specimens of them. 3. Dr. Lucas read the descriptions of the Eggs of seven species of birds, recently obtained by him, and hitherto undescribed, being as follows :—Moth-plumed Podargus (Podargus phalanoides) ; 2. Marbled Podargus (P. marmoratus); 3. Red-vented Parrakeet (Psephotus hematorrhinus) ; 4. Black-capped Sittella (S7ttella pileata) ; 98 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 5. White-winged Petrel (Gstrellata leucoptera); 6. Australian Tippet Grebe (Podiceps Australis); 7. Straw necked Ibis (Carphibis spinicollis. ) The principal exhibits of the evening were—By Mr. F. G. A. Barnard, orchid in bloom, Caladenia suaveolens, found near Melbourne, also botanical specimens from Pyramid Hill ; by Mr. A. Borthwick, 20 species of Victorian birds recently shot at Olinda Creek ; by Mr. A. J. Campbell, a clutch of five kestrel’s eggs, taken from a deserted crow’s nest; by Mr. G. Coghill. ten species of orchids in bloom, including Pterostylis mutica, P. ruja, Prasophyllum fuscum, P. patens, and Calochilus campestris; also copper-headed snake (Hoplocephalus superbus); by Mr A. W. Coles, pair of collared wanderer quail, from Werribee ; by Rey. A. W. Cresswell, miocene tertiary fossils, from Bairnsdale, (Hinnites Corioensis and Clypeaster Gippslandicus); by Mr. P. Dattari, orchids in bloom, Caladenia Patersoni, and C. Menziesii; by Mr. C. French, orchids in illustration of his paper, also 10 species of venomous snakes from Queensland, viz., Diemenia olivacea, D. psammophis, Hoplocephalus nigrescens, H. pallidiceps, H. siqgnatus, Hydrophis elegans, Enhydrina Bengalensis, Cacophis Harriette, Pelamis bicolor, Petrodymon cucullatum ; by T. A. Forbes-Leith, mouated specimens of Keivi (Apterya Mantellc) from New Zealand; by Mr. J. H. Gatliff, 3 species of Tunicata ; by Mr. R. Hall, curious growth of barnacles ; by Miss Hood, botanical and geological specimens from Western Queensland ; by Mr. H. Kennon, fossils, etc. ; by Mr. A. Lukey, Victorian birds ; by Baron F. von Mueller, a Queensland pitcher- plant, (Dischidia Timorensis); by Mr. F. M. Reader, mounted Victorian fungi, representing the tribes Agaricini, Polyporei, Auricularin’, and Trichogastes; by Mr. J. F. Roberts, exotic orchid in bloom,—T?richopilia suavis from South America, and Dendrobium macranthum from Manilla; by Mrs. R. Simson, Queensland plants; by Mr. T. Worcester, two specimens of the Hammer-headed oyster, (MJalleus vulgaris) from West Australia. After the usual conversazione the meeting terminated. FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB EXCURSION TO FRANKSTON. By Messrs. C. Frencu ann D. Bust. (Read before the Field Naturalists’ Club of Victoria, August, 1884) Or the many excursions made by members of the Field Naturalists’ Club, that of Tuesday, the 1st day of July last (vhich THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 99 had been proclaimed a public holiday in honor of the anniversary of her Majesty’s birthday), was probably as enjoyable as any. The day was all that could be desired, the sun shone out brightly, and a mild breeze prevailed which rendered walking not only exceedingly agreeable but a positive pleasure, indeed one must have been of a most lazy and indolent nature who could not appreciate all the ad- vantages to health and mind, to be derived from a walking trip under such exceptionally favourable circumstances. The locality selected for the F.N.C. to explore was the well-known watering place, Frankston, situated on the eastern shore of Hobson’s Bay, a distance from Melbourne about 27 miles. When the train left the city at 9 o'clock a.m., on the Tuesday, some twelve members had put in an appearance, among them being four of the juniors, of whom it may be justly stated that they were equally if not more energetic than the elder ones. The journey by train is a somewhat monotonous one, so far as scenery is concerned, especially after we leave Brighton. The country presents nothing worthy of note, for after passing Mordialloc, the train skirts so close to the beach on the one side and the wretched looking Carrum swamp on the other, that nothing is to be seen but the everlasting Tea-tree, Melaleuca ericifolia, and the common Coast Honeysuckle, Banksia integrifolia, and the station master here, (unless he be of a particular romantic turn of mind), must indeed have anything but a lively time of it. To anyone who has been accustomed to travel and collect in this neighbourhood, 80 years since, when a eollectcr might have worked for days and even weeks, without seeing a living soul or hearing a sound save those of cattle, bullock-bells, or perhaps the yabbering of a stray blackfellow and his lady, these forming the remnant of the once powerful, but fast disappearing Mordialloe tribe, who used to frequent the Kananook Creek for the purpose of spearing eels, which formed part of their daily food, it certainly seems strange to be occasionally disturbed ly the shrill screetch of the passing locomotive and its living freight of pleasure seekers, which, after all, only reminds us of extending civilization, and points to aspeedy and effective curtailment of our collecting fields. Having made this perhaps unwarrantable digression, it may be of interest to relate a curious incident that here came under the notice of one of the writers of these notes, viz., that in or near the spot on which the Kananook Railway Station now stands, more than 27 years since, a small party of which the writer was one, came suddenly upon an Aboriginal woman who was lying in a Mia Mia made of a few leaves, and upon questioning her, we learned that her lord and master had suspected her of an intent to elope, so he took the effective but somewhat ungallant plan of breaking the lady’s leg, in which sad condition we found her as described above. The author of this novel, prompt, but cruel treatment, was afterwards much mutilated by a friend of the 100 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. injured lady, but in the language of the novelist, we suspect that all ended in a satisfactory and amicable manner. This is, however, no time to soliloquize, so we must proceed. Frankston was reached about 10.30, and the whole party assembled, and after some slight refreshment were soon ready for a start, all fully armed with the requisite materials for securing the specimens they hoped to meet with. Unfortunately, however, a great disappoint- ment was experienced at the non-appearance of Mr. Caire, the photographer, a member of tne Club, who had promised to be present to take the photographs of the Field Naturalists at work. Sickness however unfortunately prevented him carrying out his imtention, and those who expected to be thus immortalized as Field Naturalists, must rest content until another, and let us hope, a more successful opportunity occurs. One of the party having heard of the existence of a Giant Cactus growing in the district, it was unanimously decided that this should be the first object to receive our attention. Accord- ingly, Mr. French having been selected as leader, speed was put on at the rate of several miles per hour, until the place which is between 2 or 3 miles from the township was reached, the distance being covered at high pressure speed, and finally the party were amply rewarded for their extra walk, the Cactus in question being a magnificent specimen of Cereus giganteus, the Tuwarrow or Taguaro of the Mexicans, whose beautifully ribbed or fluted stems, 5 in number, reaches the height of between 16 and 17 feet. The plant had been growing for a number of years in its present position, and doubtless had its origin from seeds sent by Professors Asa Gray and Engelmann to Baron yon Mueller, by whom it was first distributed in the colony, more than 25 years since. We were fortunate to include in our company an artist, Mr. P. Dattari, who has made a very excellent sketch of the plant and its surroundings, which he will show you this evening. It may be mentioned that the fact of this plant thriving in such close proximity to the sea-beach, was not generally known. The owner is Mr. Davey, one of the oldest residents in the district, and who was unfortunately ill at the time of our visit. In its native habitat, this species of Cactus is said to attain a height of 60 feet, with a diameter of 2 feet. Leaving the giant Cactus and its obliging owners, we hastened to retrace our steps towards the township, striking across the country in an easterly direction. We had not proceeded far, when one of our party who has the reputation of having an ‘“‘ eagle eye” for anything in the shape of a plant, discovered a few solitary specimens of Ophioglossum vulgatum, the curious little ‘‘ Adder’s tongue” fern of pteridologists, and close by the sportsman of the party ‘‘ brought down” a specimen of the Scariet-breasted Robin, Petrotca multicolor, and also a White-eared Honey-eater, Ptilotis leucotis. (To be continued.) THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. 101 RECORD OF A NEW PAPUAN RHODODENDRON. By Baron von Muruier, K.C.M.G., M.D., Ph.D., F.R.S. &c. Dunrine a recent ascent of ranges fully 6000 feet high in south- eastern New Guinea it fell to the fortunate share of Mr. Carl Hunstein, to discover a grand epiphyte, of which he brought a solitary flower, but made a colored sketch of the latter also. Though it is unusual, to define any plant botanically from a single flower, I feel no scruples in this exceptional case, to place at once this superb production of the Papuan Flora on descriptive record, especially as the material, altho’ scanty, does allow of referring the plant clearly to the genus Rhododendron. Thus also I am enabled, to fulfill a long- cherished wish, to connect with some splendid floral treasure the name of the Marquis Goyzueta de Toverena, Consul General in Australia for the Italian Kingdom, a nobleman who has given much encouragement to my researches, while representing here for a series of years worthily his great country. Preliminarily this new plant may be thus described. RHODODENDRON TOVEREN 4 Corymbs containing about 12 flowers, each at an average 6 inches long and wide ; calyx reduced to a terminal narrow oblique expan- sion of the stalklet, the latter nearly glabrous ; corolla pure-white ; its tube slender-cylindrical, about 3 inches long, but not half an inch wide at the middle, slightly widened upwards ; lobes seven, horizon- tal, oblong-ovate, somewhat waved, scantily reflexed at the margin for short spaces, rounded-blunt or (according to the sketch) occasion- ally sinuous at the summit or there produced into 2 or 3 lobules ; stameus 14, somewhat exserted, about 4 inches long ; filaments in their lower portion densely beset with short spreading hair, in the upper portion nearly glabrous ; anthers linear-cylindrical, nearly or fully half an inch long ; pistil hardly longer than the corolla-tuke, cover of the stigma patellar ; stigma 7-lobed ; style about 1} inch long, as well as the ovary fulvous-velyety except towards the summit ; ovary 7-celled. Four species of Rhododendron are described from New Guinea in Dr. Becceari’s ‘‘ Malesia,” I, 200-202; they all came from Mount Arfak ; so that the addition of a south-eastern species renders it now probable, that these superb kinds of plants occur in numerous specific forms throughout the higher regions of the Papuan Island. This fifth congener differs already in its white and very large flowers from the other four; but Rh. Konori has also a 7-lobed corolla (a characteristic otherwise only prevalent in Rh. Fortuni), and the number of stamens is also about the same as in Rh. Toverene, while the anthers are likewise remarkably elongated. 102 THE VICTORIAN NATURALIST. Among the Sikkim-species of Rhododendron our new one approaches to Rh. Edgeworthi: but the flowers are numerous (forming indeed according to the collector’s note magnificent umbel-like bunches of over one foot’s width), the limb of the corolla is still broader, the tube much longer, the stamens become increased in proportion to the corolla-lobes, and the anthers are longer and pale-colored, while (as noted by the finder of the plant,) the stigma and upper part of the style are deep-red ; the foliage may also prove very different. Our plant comes nearer to Rh. Falconeri, so far as the copious masses of its flowers, the much-lobed corolla and the numerous stamens are concerned ; but the length and width of the flowers is much greater, and the shape of the corolla is ‘not campanular. Indeed only Kh Griffithi in its variety Aucklandi comes up to the size of the flowers of Rh Toverenge, the latter however again is distinguished by the comparatively slender corolla-tube, much longer anthers and a denser yestiture of the pistil. Mr. Hunstein speaks of pink leaves next the flowers, which would accord with young leafshoots of red tinge, such as are observed in several Rhododendrons, particularly Rh. Fortuni and Rh. Hookeri.