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HI atin r nit BiH Hat ih Hit Hi a ‘ HH Heke i! tit Hi HAE Hitt ih Hi WH Hatt HH i mite itt iste { uh Ky ii it en pitty i ‘ Hi i tht Hit Hn i ai fil if BY Hate aint 1! it . ' rat sit oe HH i itt Bat athe es a Hii ,' ith Hitt nan Hitt HAH tH HHH 4 Hi ith Hy st (W Hf cH Het ate Ht He rt tt; nity ah ae ee Ht tt Hi tite nt nyt ry itt HH fi tk titel at Hi it mitt i Ont Att ihttt sett it Htitat (ttt Het a a rth Ht i Rt KY ital {> iit Hh itt! ett itt ' ti ‘i tote vay ies Path a yaa ‘ t a e - 7 ire , (Loa bat ‘ . mie, aie | rt ne ‘ i ie J : j hiek hi : Q ¢) i ) Uh ; : f ? Dee it 7 i “ Mia vi RAL A ( f : ota 1 ‘ Va ; one aN ey ui : L , oD Pi i: a ¢ A | Ne “ae : wh ; i. aa | b ee ee o) di f “a , A D 2 a f », web i) aD i rey ' ’ : , hi. ures Fy a iy Ay ry) f i Fi as hy a i hay iss af \ eq } A RS Rr ay PC aa i : pe a a) eh, a ; a Py, ie fh } Hy Or ae ‘ l Hie het ey f fe hat he f Gwe art ib ny ics vis 7 : 7 ' vas wv *; f mi : : y ALA re ae F - es 7 2m ear ee eo. *® t Gi ika hea nh ; ; Ue Mi a OE ee rc 7 Joe , ‘ao Pa ya A hed " ie. RhoA de ee ov ' - 7+! e ‘ } ae i j é i 1 Al i i? ‘hs, & y al " ul i ri Au | i i LT L a Fi ; ) iv : : a 0 ae A as 7 ‘ ie hs uy BP bas D ; ne ; at . to. 7 * e ‘ 7 : \ , 7 es i inp i iT ' i 7 f ee af wat iT i fo Ka ee va (Pa iv BIRDS OF DARJEELING AND INDIA BY L. J. MACKINTOSH SE a ~Onlol Stina TN x \ ‘ ¥ ~~ wre S 2 66 257o\ ‘ ocT6 994 / PART I\ YOO, W247 Sl Buse CALCUTTA : PRINTED BY J. N. BANERJEE & SON, BANERJEE PREss, 59, PATTALDANGA STREET. 1915. ae HSONIA To His EXCELLENCY THE RIGHT HONORABLE BARON CARMICHAEL OF SKIRLING, G.C.LE., K.C.M.G. May it please Your Excellency : “Birds of Darjeeling” could not have been undertaken or persevered with except under Your Excellency’s auspices and for your kind help. It has given me much gratification to have been permitted to dedicate this work to Your Excellency. | am, Your Excellency’s most obedient and humble servant, L. J. MACKINTOSH. Darjeeling, Clover Cot, 15th November, 1914. a | é 2 ® 7 z bis > 7 a« é a <> | a ae nila cee ‘eT PART I go ho = s©, G0 ae, Ee ~T ¢ bo bh by bo = bo bo bb bb bo roe eS TOPOGRAPHY OF A BIRD. Fore-head (frons). Crown (vertex). Circum Ocular region. Lore—The portion in front of eye. Eye (oculus). Hind head (occiput). Nape (nucha), Hind neck (cervix), Side of neck. Interscapular region. Dorsum or back proper. Noteum, or upper part of body proper. Rump (uropygium). Upper tail coverts. Tail. Under tail coverts, (crissum). Tarsus. Abdomen. Hind toe (hallux). Gastreeum (belly part). Outer or 4th toe. Middle or third toe. Side of body. Breast (pectus). Primaries. Secondaries. Tertiaries. Remiges. 28. Primary coverts. 29. Alula winglet. 30. Greater coverts. 31. Median coverts. 32. Lesser coverts. 33. The throat. 34. Jugulum or lower throat. 35. Auriculars, tufts for the ear, (ear-coverts). 36. Malar region portion under the eye. 37. Gula or middle throat. 38. Mentum, chin. 39. Angle of commisure, or corner of mouth. 40, Ramus of under mandible. 41. Side of under mandible. 42. Gonys (lower part of bill). 45. Apex or tip of bill. 44. Tomia, or cutting edges of the bill. 45. Culmen or ridge of upper mandible. 46. Nostril. 40. 7. Lower mandible. . Scapulars. . Rictal bristles or vibrisse. . Upper mandible, maxilla. Supercilium. é. Tibia. . Cheek. Tail feathers (rectrices). wer 7 ce pite ; enlee iit Yes marte Ph =. uae Versa a | s atts i of arate nae hs ; . eh MOL By PL es, “ ; EP ee ar = > ae AY PSE EP DAD. ad S al yoerSoay (Aes ty at a z. . aE? tis penne} abil et es oUiky beled avg] RP F « Be Tt heb ere! eee h 17 F j i ay Ai hrs - i) Ristive ” ‘ae s ) | Se ete 2 etree ares ae Bes ava i oi i" ry eS Fr st 18% at oy be a eee - a 7 “ad ; : ; ve i: ate : at A ite ph AN ; { hare “Pere ve ~—. < ( =? 4 ; Hs | o> ef os HA Fity Diy p “ 3 Ci te tp hy ' a a a : - es vy. el : ; ail f : af ~ a ‘ A ‘ rsh ty / ere. ‘1 a! i ie aah ; bil 1 ' i” ¢ 2. bal 7 bs 7 ? ‘ 1 eal we "9 if, ee i s é i ‘ ” , \ bi ei é | 4 : } : : * << iis ' ~~ ~ ed 7 ’ ey ~ a - ae “oa et _. . - re BIRDS OF DARJEELING AND INDIA. INTRODUCTION. HIS book was written at the request of friends desirous of obtaining an easier method of learning about birds met with, chiefly, in Darjeeling, also, as an aid to getting acquainted with, some of the commoner species found in their haunts down in the plains, chiefly of Bengal. This however, seemed to be a secondary consideration, the chief desire was for the birds of Darjeeling, and the district, which were more frequently seen, when up, for a_ holiday, when leisure was more at one’s disposal, in a morning’s walk, or a lengthened excursion into the district, or possibly into Sikkim. Most of the books on Indian birds offer but little help in learning about our feathered friends in their wild state. In this work, I have utilised my numerous notes, and diaries kept for many years. Most of the books on Ornithology, dealing with the species found in India, appear somewhat obscure, whilst, on the other hand, popular works convey but little information, I have been much struck, on several occasions on finding, a friend, to whom, I had lent a more or less technical work on Orni- thology, skip over such important details, as the description of such and such a bird, or measurements, etc.: On being asked, I was told that it would be like “a needle in a hay stack,” to find a certain bird by the description given. Then, again, science hedges in each of its branches by a formidable array of scientific terms, perplexing phraseology and crowded up detail, that many a faithful student, and true lover of nature is driven from the field. One cannot help thinking, that, the tendency of the age, appears to be to mystify, so that any help to lead true seekers to these clear Olympian Springs ‘ought to be thankfully received. The difficulties which beset us, at the outset are, that, with the smaller birds, we get but a hurried glance,—may be the bird just spotted, warbling sweetly a few yards away, as you approach, its song stops, and a fleeting figure is all that meets the gaze, or the little bird which skips about the branches with such rapid movements, that it is all the eye can do, to follow it from perch to perch ; as for trying to discover if the primaries or tail feathers are graded or not, or the 4th and 5th quills are unequal, or the bill notched, the little toe long and syndactyle, are out of the question, These are doubtlessly all important points, which can Beh be verified at your leisure, when you get an opportunity of viewing a specimen close at hand. When endeavoring to make out a certain species, its more typical marks are to be observed ; the seasons of migration noted, and the different elevations to look for certain members of such and such a genus. The list at the end of each part will give greater facilities, in correctly placing the birds met with. I have carefully followed in this list, in every instance, the nomenclature adopted by the late Dr. Jerdon, which catalogue I have adhered to for many years. A good deal of chopping and changing has been going on since then, details of which we need not enter into, nor need I refer you to the Zoological Record. Our main object is to get acquainted with the bird life in the district. How the introduction is brought about is after all a secondary considera- tion. I have invariably, with a few minor alterations, adhered to the colours of the “types” of the different species, variations to a lesser degree occur, when considering the general run of birds in their wild state. I have endeavored in most instances when discrib- ing a bird, to have the specimens before me. On looking over the list you will find against each species “D” or “P” and so on. These symbols stand for where the birds are likely to be found. “D”—found at one time or another in Darjeeling and the district from, say, 14,000 ft. elevation to the foot of the hills. Generally speaking the home of each bird is to be considered, the locality to which it retires, to build its nest, and brings up its fully fledged youngsters. “P,” stands for birds, found in the plains of India, not necessarily its home, and for places other than Darjeeling. “C. P,” to be more definite, up-country, and the Central Provinces. “W. H” for Western and Central parts of the Himalayas. The parti- cular significance of “snows,” stands for all high altitude birds, which build their nests in the Palzartic circle, 12,000 ft. and over, up to say Lake Shumpu, at the foot of the Glacier which comes off Kinchinginga. Jerdon’s serial numbers will aid the student in ascer- taining whereabouts in the great uniformity of nature the species is a link, and other useful significance. Next to a few of the “Water- birds” ete. will be “Thibet,” or “passing over” is meant to draw your attention to those species of Ducks, Teals, Snipe, Plovers, Pochards, the Merganser, and some of the Gulls, which pass over Darjeeling, and the district, over the snowy range, and settle down on the lakes of central Thibet to breed; then return again, when the cold and snow storms, drive them down to warmer latitudes, on the plains of India. Male birds have been, in most instances, figured to the seeming neglect of the females. It is generally advisable to discover the cock-bird, owing to the well marked specimens presented to the eye, and the display of more of the typical habits, than are found in the a a, hens, which are as arule, sombre in colour, owing to their special vocation in life. Once the male is observed, but little difficulty will be experienced in discovering its pair. At one time I purposed to give keys to the various families, but on considering the matter, I deemed it unwise to cumber you with over much tecnichal details. Colour of the plumage (markings), is not always an infallible guide to know the species. A fuller knowledge of the habits of birds is always useful, also their typical modes of flight, general bearing ete.—a fairly accurate aid, is the seasun, and locality birds are found. At 10,000 ft. elevation, you have a group of varied families ete., in Darjeeling another ; at 5000 ft. another, and so on. In May for instance, at one or other of the altitudes you expect to find certain birds, and know that others you won’t see. In winter some species of Rose finches etc. descend from the Singalillas to Darjeeling. After February nearly all of them have gone back, so that if you find a bird which you took to be a Rosefinch (female) in May, you may be certain that your eyes have deceived you. The reason for not figuring, in not a few instances, female birds, is that, it would mar the object of the present work, which is to offer simple methods of identifications, by giving the more striking, distinctive marks and colours, as can be-seen at a passing glance at bird. Females present difficulties in colour, which are not readily made out where allied species are concerned, more so, as for instance, in Honey-suckers, there exists difference of tints of colour, when distinguishing the female of one species from another. When examining the hen bird, it is always useful to observe the strong family likeness, if I may be permitted to say so, to the cock which exists, apart from the colour, also in shape of bill and habits generally. The Avifauna of India can be divided into the following natural Orders :— Ch) RAPTORES: .) ...: v3 Birds of Prey. (2) INSESSORES ... dy Perching Birds. (3) GEMITORES ... Aw Pigeons. (4) RASORES cae ee Game Birds. (5) GRALLATORES a Wading Birds. (6) NATATORES ... ee Swimming Birds, (1)—RAPTORES (Birds of Prey) which comprise, the Vultures, Falcons, Kestrels, Sparrow-Hawks, Eagles, Buzzards, Harriers, Kites and Owls. These birds have strong and vigorous bills, legs and claws; upper mandible hooked and pointed, sharp in most of the families, generally with a festoon, or sinuations well adapted for tearing their, at times, tough prey ; naked membrane at base of the bill—the cere; wings large and powerful, with strong resisting primaries, 10 in number usually, 12 strong tail feathers; legs strong and muscular; the tarsi bones are generally protected by large scutella or scales in front ; eyes situated. laterally, are large, and the sight acute, aided by a delicate sense of hearing. These birds are separated into the following families :—(1) Vulturide, Vultures. (2) Falconidee, Eagles, ete. (3) Strigide, owls. I Famity VULTURIDA—(VULTURES) Are a well-known family, so require, but little introduction. Three types are found in India—(A) True Vultures, (B) Scavengers, (C) Bearded Vulture or Lammergeirs, having the neck covered with feathers, like eagles. Vultures have longish bills, straight upper ridge or culmen, tip curved and blunt, lacking the sharp tooth of the Falconide ; cere invariably large ; tarsus short and stout, protected by smallish scales, and feathered usually to the knee, toes long, middle toe lengthened ; hallux short; claws strong, but blunt, as compared with the next family. Sus-FAMILY VULTURIN AG Have long bills thick and strong, depth of which is greater than the width, tip curved; cere long; head and upper neck, with soft feathery down; wings long; tail short. These birds are of large size some over 4 feet in length. Their flight is graceful. They mount up to a great height where they spend, no small part of their leisure, gracefully performing on the wing great curves and circles in a comparatively slow easy manner, with but little effort. Wings have an up-turned appearance, a few of the primary quills showing out distinctly. (1) VULTURE MONACHUS, Great Brown Vulture, is not so plentiful as the other species. It is sometimes seen in the plains ,and occa- sionally in Darjeeling and the district. It has been called, the Great Brown Vulture of the Himalayas, and can be made out by its large () Gh) size and strong easy flight, together with the rich dark chocolate brown colour, above, a bit darker on the wings, tail and lower parts of the body; reddish ash cere, base of the bill and unteathered parts of the neck; legs are dull yellow, which, seems to be the prevailing colour of Raptores’ legs. Length of this species is about 48 inches ; expanse of out stretched wings about 9 feet. (3) Gyps FULVUS Large Tawny Vulture, is common about Darjeel- ing. It seldom descends to the plains. Genus Gyps, as a group, have longer bills than Vuléwr. Ruff feathers differ, bemg longer below the neck, however this is not readily distinguished from a distance. This bird is a little smaller than monachus ; bill greenish. In general appearance it is tawny, as though tanned by the sun; lighter in colour on lower back and thighs ; dark brown on wing coverts, quills and tail. Sun-Famity NEOPHRONIN A, (Scavengers) These birds have long, slender bills, tip curved, abruptly hooked at the tip; cere long; tail wedge shaped ; toes syndactyle ; head and face unfeathered, neck ruff of feathers fairly prominent; wings strong and pointed. (6) NEOPHRON PERCNOPTERUS, /Vhite Scavenger Vulture. These are the Pharoah’s Chickens of ancient and modern times. This name refers, most probably to the strict game laws which protected, these useful birds, under a tropical sky. Doubtlessly they were favoured under some of those monarchs, and fared bountifully when Pharoah’s wrath was kindled. There are few places in India where these birds, do not offer their services to clean up unhealthy surroundings, usually in partnership with Gyps Bengalensis and a few others of like tastes. The size of this bird is about 29”. Colour is yellowish white ; black on the quills. Our Municipal wire ropeway leads for refuse tubs, shoot their conteuts, about, 2 miles down the hill-side. When this mode of conveyance was new to Darjeeling, some twenty or thirty Vultures could be seen in a long line on the ropeway, taking a free ride. When they arrived at the terminus below, they hopped nimbly on to the up ropeway, each in its turn, and took a ride up. The reason for this apparent diversion, was not far to seek. These Vultures usually took a sly peep into the buckets on their downward journey, to see if they contained anything in the shape of digestible morsels. This however did not always seem to be their chief motive, for ere long, they had grown to like uncommonly well the novel mode of locomo- tion. Every 100 yards or so, on their journey the Vultures encoun- tred the travelling pulleys, on which the buckets worked. It was amusing to watch the bird which was leading, look demurely at the approaching danger to their toes and claws, and a possible start to (6H) the whole nervous system. Whilst keeping an eye on the wheels, when the impediment was nearing, it set up a hoarse kok, kok, kok like noise, as a warning to its friends, then nimbly hopped over the wheel, which each did in turn, and settled comfortably down till the next break on the line arrived. The intelligence displayed by these birds was remarkable. One usually looks on Vultures as belonging to a low grade type of birds. (7) GYPAETUS BARBATUS, Bearded Vulture. This fine looking bird is found on the Himalayas, generally at high altitudes. It is often seen sailing high up in the air above Darjeeling. Its peculiar shaped tail, and large size, makes it readily distinguished when amongst eagles and Vultures. In the Hill stations on the Western Himalayas, the Lammergeier . oe . . is commonly called ~ Golden Eagle,” a compliment doubtlessly it must appreciate. A closer examination will find that it has a lengthened compressed bill, strong and well curved at the tip; narial bristles dense and rigid, long below the lower mandibles, which gives the bird a bearded appearance ; tail long (wedge) shaped differently from the foregoing vultures. Size of this Lammergeier is 46” ; wing expanse about 9 feet. Color of the plumage, also helps to distinguish it from birds of the same family ; lower parts of the body are dull orange ; greater coverts, wings and tail, ashy black ; head whitish, with dark streaks ; back black. The Lammergeier is sup- posed to carry away lambs, when disposed to do so ; but I can’t quite understand how this is done, as its toes are straight and claws, though strong, are only moderately curved. This bird does not possess the strong grip of eagles, so that, how it carries a burden- some lamh, by aid of its stiffish toes is difficult to realise. I have seen the Lammergeier beyond Jongri “go for” wild sheep, which are to be found among these steeps rocky inclines. If at a favourable opportunity a sheep has strayed, or wandered up one of those treacherous hights, to a conspicuous place where footholds are un- certain ; the Bearded Vulture is generally on the look out, to plunge at it, from its coin of Vantage, and hurl the unfortunate and reckless climber down, to the solid rocks, nearly a thousand feet below, to feed on its mangled remains ; but these sheep are wary and not easily caught napping. When the dark forest rose. before our view, Our hearts were thrilled as when we kneel in preyer, There, far aloft, the lonely tose-fir drew Its glorious height into the misty air. The chestnut’s wide and leafy branches threw Their, shadow on the winding pathway, there Ci) Foliage with flakes of verdant leafage grew The deodar, magnificent and fair. The hush of silence o’er the mountain fell, The only sounds, the breezes gentle sigh Stirring the topmost boughs, a distant bell Striking the hour from Teera, and the cry, Of lonely lammergeier, I know not why The memory of that day comes o’er me like a spell. The next family is the Falconwle, which represents a variety of Birds of Prey. Il. Famitry FALCONIDAj These birds have short, compressed bills, the tip is long, curved and sharp, upper mandible toothed or festooned ; legs and feet strong, with sharp well curved claws ; the eyes are large, protected by projecting, horny eyebrows, giving these birds an extremely powerful out-look. Falconiiw contain the remaining diurnal birds of prey ; Hawks, Eagles and Kites. They feed on birds, reptiles, fish, insects and smaller mammals. When resting on a perch, their erect bearing is most marked, and seem to stand with shoulders thrown back, as it were. They seldom or ever alight on the ground, save, perhaps in their hunt after a reptile, or some other prey, but rarely to rest. When feeding they remove, the hair or feathers, and other indigestible portions, before eating their prey, nevertheless any portions left undigested are emitted in the form of round pellets. These dryish looking pellets are often found on the ground, below big trees, where the birds habitually resort, after securing their prey. The cry of Falconide is a prolonged whistle, shrill and plaintive. Falcons are comparatively small in size measuring about 15” to 19”. They have long pointed wings, which reach to the tip of the tail ; a dark cheek stripe is generally noticeable. The Lanners and Lag- gers are found in this group; the darker Hobbies, and lighter coloured Merlins, and small sized, Kestrel. SuUB-FAMILY: TRUE FALCONS These are interesting birds, more so perhaps, as they are readily trained to hunt, chiefly, game birds. This sport of the middle ages in Europe was largely indulged in, in India usually under royal patronage, when well trained falcons exhibited not a little strength, daring and skill. Now and then you come across this old time honored, pastime, where these falcons are still used for this purpose, in secluded states; but even here, one is pleased to note that this 0) somewhat barbarous practice is on the decline. I well: remember a visit, to an old Rajpoot state, where Falconers of ancient lineage, talked sadly of the days, when notable warriors, came from far off lands, to witness the prowess of Shahin falcon, or Golden Eagle of the Mongolian principalities. The falcon’s bill is short, well curved and hooked, with a sharp tooth; wings long, first quills notched on the inner web, second quill longest, and also usually notched ; legs short and muscular; toes longish; claws sharp, curved and retractile. (8) FALCO PEREGRINUS, Peregrine Falcon, is a well known bird owing to its prowess on the hunting field. It is found in most places in India. In former times it was usually trained to strike herons, egrets ete. which it does with its hallux or rather hind claw, when it has caught up to the bird, and got within range, or striking distance. In size peregrinus is about 153”. It has a distinct- ly marked cheek stripe; wings long and pointed. When seen on a perch, close by, the tips of the wings reach, to end of the tail ; legs and feet are yellow ; bill blue ; cere yellow ; colour of the upper plumage is bluish grey ; wings black, spotted and barred with white, lower parts of the body white with longitudinal streaks. The general appearance of this falcon is dark in colour. Peregrines are uncommon in Darjeeling. Generally when present, they hide away among the dense foliage. LANNERS (10) Fatco Sacer, Saker Falcon. This bird is much rarer in these parts than the last. It is larger in size, male being about 18” in length, female about 21". Its tail is longer ; toes shorter than the Peregrine. From a distance you will find but little differ- ence in colour generally ; head is reddish-ash with black streaks ; upper parts are light brown ; below white with large oblong slate coloured spots. (14) HyporriorcHus SEVERUS, Indian Hobby. This bird re- sides chiefly in the Himalayas and seldom visits the plains except in the cold weather. It is fairly small in size, being about 103” long. The Hobby usually comes out to hunt, a little before dusk, occasionally it goes for small birds, preferably larks and finches, which are bolder on the wing, than birds which keep to the dense foliage ; also allured, no doubt by the dainty morsel these fat little birds offer. Hobby generally makes straight, like an arrow from the bow, at a flock of mixed Larks and Finches—on the wing, usually seen at approach of the cold weather ; but the marvellous evolutions of these birds, in mid air, is beautiful to watch, as they follow the in- structions of their leaders, as it were, and sweep in great circles, i ae, with clock-work precision to dodge the strokes of the Hobby, or one or other of the falcon family, nevertheless keeping together, no matter what the size of the flock may be, or how many young birds are amongst them, occasionally one-batch gets seperated, which keep up the evolutions on a smaller scale, till the two groups mancevre close enough to rejoin. Hobby, more often than not, retires “blown” and panting from the chase, to recover strength and fresh energy for another shot, or flies off in search of some sickly bird it might chance to meet, or unwary reptile. Hobbies have longish wings and tarsi, the latter with hexagonal scales protecting them ; legs and bill are not so strong, and the former so muscular, as the true Faleons. Their plumage is darker in colour. Indian Hobby (14)—a more appropriate name would have been Himalayan Hobby, is (male) 103" long, wings very long, reaching beyond, tip of the tail ; feet large ; tail short and more square shape; bill plumbeous ; cere, orbitar, skin, and legs, reddish yellow ; above, the colour is dark slaty blue; sides of the head black; under parts of the body rusty red. (13) Hyporriorcuis Supputeo, The Hobby, is also. seen in Darjeeling, more frequently in the cold weather and spring. It is a shade bigger than Severus, male being about 10% inches in length and female 12% inches. It has occasionally been found building its nest at a high elevation, but usually passes over into Central Asia. Colour, above, is black with a slaty tinge ; under parts are white, breast and abdomen with dark brown streaks, under tail coverts ferruginous also the thighs ; tail slaty with dark bands ; the stripes on either side of the head, light chesnut ; cheek stripe black, cheeks black, cere and legs greenish yellow. (17) Trnnuncutus ALauparius, Kestrel. This bird is more frequently seen in the plains in winter. It is occasionally met with in Darjeeling, when it is in hot pursuit after birds usually weaker on the wing. When it flies in among a number of birds of various size, there is generally a hurry scurry in which each bird makes for the nearest shelter. In the confusion which follows, the kestrel gets a bit distracted at the plethora of opportunities, and ends in secur- ing nothing. When it makes, from a coin of vantage on a tall tree, a well aimed plunge, it shoots down in an oblique line with the blind speed of a rocket, it seldom misses, unless the quarry has moved a foot or two as soon as the plunge is made, in which case it shoots past the object, which gives the bird, if it is a thrush, a chance of escape. The kestrel is often, trained to strike Ortelans and the like, occasionally quails. In Darjeeling I have seen them go full tilt after bigger birds than themselves. I was, one morning within the biggish wire enclosure of the fowl house, with the door wide open, Two 2 ( 10%) birds passed within a foot of me, at the speed of a thunder bolt and hit against the wire netting with a force which stunned both of them. The whole affair was sudden and perplexing. When I had secured both birds, none the worse for the encounter, I discovered to my astonishment, the foremost bird was the female Grey-winged Ouzel (n 361). When they hit the wire netting in quick succession the kestrel was about 6 ins. behind, which seemed so dead beat thatit offered but slight resistance, both birds were fairly blown. The acquaintance thus roughly started, was soon forgotten ; kestrel and I became fast friends. It learnt to eat raw meat in preference to little birds and small mammals. Female kestrel is 15 ins. in length. Colour reddish with dark lines on back and wing coverts, head and neck ; tail tipped white with dark bars ; stripe on side of the head not so prominent as the falcons ; plumage below chesnut or reddish yellow with brown spots. (20) Hierax Evurotmos, /Vhite-naped Pigmy Falcon, though peculiar to Sikkim and eastern side of the Himalayas, it is a diffi- cult bird to find in Darjeeling. This pretty little hawk is shy and faithless, solitary in its habits, and usually hides among thick foliage of trees. Its peculiar note of warning is sometimes heard proceed- ing from the thick, sheltering cryptomeria trees ; you seldom get a sight of the bird, except when it is in denser forests. If observed unawares, it is usually seen sitting motionless and quiet on its perch. Eutolinos is 64 ins. long, about as big as a good sized lark. Colour is black, glossed with green, above ; white spots on the wing and tail ; breast white and lower parts ferruginous ; it has a broad white superciliary line of white, which is generally conspicuous ; bill, is blue and faleon-like, stout in size ; it has a short projecting double tooth. This species feeds much on insects, occasionally, on young or small birds, Flower-peckers, Honey-suckers and Willow Warblers. As their lurking places are generally discovered by the small birds or their larger custodians, the thrushes etc., they are usually driven off by the noise and racket these birds set up. Assisted by this com- motion, one is often aided in discovering this or one or other of the falcons or owlets. Sunp-FAMILY ACCIPITRINE® ( Hawks) These comprise, Goshawks and Sparrow-hawks, both well known birds. They have short, stout, curved bills, tooth blunt ; tarsi long ; toes and claws long, the latter curved and sharp ; wings short and rounded. When hunting for prey, Goshawks fly near the surface of the land ; skim silently over short, straggling bushes, and by/the side of tall spreading trees, Their flight is somewhat more typical to (see) this group, a few strokes to gather impetus, then a sailing turn with outstretched wings. (22) ASTUR TRIVIRGATUS, Crested Goshawk, can be classed as a Darjeeling bird, though it is difficult to find, more so, at this eleva- tion, owing to its habits of frequenting forests or their near vicinity. At times they appear near the outskirts of the station, ready to drop down irom their perches on fowls, that have wandered away from jungle cover or other shelters where they resort. These Goshawks are generally seen hunting in pairs, so that it is with much difficulty, that a bird escapes the strokes of both these hawks, as they appear to play with much skill into each others hands (claws). I saw this frequently, when these hawks were hunting for marmots and pheasants. Female Goshawk is over 18 ins. in length ; legs and cere yellow ; irides bright yellow ; above, it is glossy dark brown; wings and tail have four dark bands; lower parts of the body plumage is white, with pale yellowish spots ; yellowish brown bars on the lower breast and below. (25) AccriPireR Vircatus, Besra Sparrow-hawk, is fairly common in Darjeeling in the cold weather, when it can occasionally be seen mixing with the larger Lapfores as they take their constitutional in mid air. It can usually be made out by its small size and longish tail. This sparrow-hawk is one of the well known short-winged hawks, it has been trained for hunting on account of its speed in striking, activity, and cleverness in the chase, especially when sent after partridges, quails and snipe. These jungle Sparrow-hawks, as they are called are more slender in form than the previous groups, they have longer tails ; wings rounded ; bill very short and curved, compressed, with a formidable looking festoon on the margin of the upper mandible ; 4th and 5th quills the longest ; tarsi long, scuta not prominent ; toes long; claws sharp and well curved ; irides bright yellow. I have a Besra Sparrow-hawk in front of me whilst I write; but it is a difficult bird to figure in a general sort of way, without going into a few details ; upper plumage is dark olive brown; head and neck blackish ; dark about the face ; tail grey with about 4 to 6 dark bands ; beneath, the plumage is white, with reddish brown bands. Young birds have broad oval yellowish brown patches on the breast and below. In size male is 11 ins. and female 14 ins. The latter has vertical dashes and roundish streaks of colour on the breast. Sup-FAMILY: AQUILIN.E ( Lagles) This well known family of Raptores, might be called the typical group of Birds of Prey. These birds are of large size and stout Ce build, with strong bills, and well curved claws. Nevertheless they appear to lack the courage and daring of falcons and hawks, as though unconscious of their powers; or it may be a knowledge of their strength and prowess, makes them unwilling to display them at every ‘“‘hand’s turn”, unless pushed to it. These birds are divided into :—True Eagles, Kite Eagles, Hawk Eagles, Serpent and Fishing Eagles. To a certain extent their courage and daring decline as we proceed down the line of sub-families, and species to some extent ; but you can’t adhere too closely to this rough and ready phase of eagle qualifications. From experience of these birds in their natural state Limnaétus Cristatellus (35) crested Hawk-eagle is considerably more daring and powerful than Neopus Malaiensis '32) Black Kite Eagle, so that priority in rank of precedence in aquiline characteristics would fall to Cristatellus. To a lesser degree however there exists a fair substratum of truth in the lineal descent presen- ted in the list. (i) TRUE EAGLES Genus Aquila, have long powerful wings, 4th and 5th quills the longest ; fierce and formidable looking birds ; bill longish, strong, fairly straight, arched and hooked towards the tip, margin sinuated ; tail longish; tarsus strong, moderately long and feathered ; toes protected by scales; claws strong; hind toe and claw powerful ; head like all the Raptores typically large ; irides dark. These are birds of large size and dark plumage. Imperial Eagle is found in the district. It appears to frequent in preference, the outskirts, near well wooded parts of the country. Golden Eagle is not met with here. It is more plentiful on western side of the Himalayas ; but its home appears to be Central Asia, where it is held in high esteem by the Kirghiz and other tribes. This magnificent bird has an expanse of wings of over 8 ft. I have seen some having a much bigger sweep of wings. (26) AQuILA CHRYSA‘TOS, Golden Eagle, is doubtless the mo- narch of this family. It presents a type of bird that would be a credit (2) to any country for strength and magnificence. Colour of the plumage is rich dark, umber brown with glossed orange brown markings about the head, nape, shoulders and fore part of the thigh coverts which give the bird a golden appearance, when reflected by the rays of the sun ; irides orange brown ; in size it is about 40 ins. Chrysactos frequents rugged, fairly bleak, mountain sides, it is trained to hunt deer and wolves. (27) AquiLa IMPERIALIS, Jinperial Eagle, is inferior to chrysaétos. It is more frequently seen at a lower elevation, and is-fairly plentiful in the Terai in the cold weather. It feeds chiefly on game-birds, pheasauts, florikaus aud smaller sized mammals when procurable. et) It is often observed perching on the land, on rocks and prominent places, where it gets a good sweep of the country around, for likely prey to feed on. In size, male is 30 in. and female about 35 in. wing-expanse of the latter about 73 feet. This eagle is dark glossy brown in colour; quills black ; tail grey with black bars, broadest at the tip; head and upper parts of the neck orange buff. (29) AQUILA FULVESCENS, Jawny Eagle. These eagles are oc- casionally met with, but they are usually found more plentiful on higher altitudes in the district or in Sikkim. In the plains it is commonly known as “ Uquab,” where it is met with below the sub-Himalayan tracts chiefly in winter. In Darjeeling and the dis- trict it prefers to get behind thick leafy trees, to be on the look out for a chance plunge at game-birds, and the homely domesticated fowls. At early dawn they are particularly active, after getting a good feed and perhaps a forty winks, they go off for a constitutional, sailing amongst the kites and vultures high up in the sky, where they may be seen circling with ease and grace ; size of the female is about 28 ins. wing extent about 5 ft. ; colour of the plumage, as the name implies is tawny brown ; blackish about the head ; hackles of the neck tipped pale brown; wings breast and under plumage greyish black ; tawny speckles on the breast, wings ete. ; two light coloured wing bars and the same on lower part of the tail. The cry of fulvescens is wild, eagle-like scream. (ii) KITE EAGLES (32) Neopus Mauayensis, Black Eagle, as compared with the last group; this bird has a smaller bill, not so strong, rounded and hooked at the tip ; festoon on the upper mandible is less prominent ; cere large ; wings very long ; toes short and claws small. In form generally not so robust as dquilae. This eagle is seldom met with in Darjeeling. It is more frequently seen at Tongloo, silently per- ched, in the evening on a dry stump of a tree, or at other times circling in the air, where it gracefully sails and soars above or more frequently is viewed in the gorge below you. By day, it seldom rests and seems never to tire on the wing. It has a bad habit of going for sickly and young birds generally. It seems to have no desire to get blown by a hot pursuit after birds strong on the wing or to risk an encounter when the odds are uncertain. Female malayensis is 30% ins. in length ; male 274 ins. The general appearance in colour, is brownish black; quills faintly barred with grey ; tail and its upper coverts barred white, below pale. iii) HAWK-EAGLES We shall pass on, now, to the more daring Hawk-Eagles. These are fine large birds with muscular legs, powerful feet and claws and a good strong serviceable tearing bill. (Hate 96 (35) LIMNAETUS CRISTATELUS, Crested Hawk-Eagle, would perhaps be the best species of this interesting group to better our acquain- tance with, for various excellent reasons, chiefly as these birds are more frequently seen in Darjeeling than Nisaétus Bonelli (33) erest- less Hawk-eagle or the next two Nipalensis and Rufous bellied species, which are rare in the district. Cvistatellus represents a good group of fine eagles with short roundish wings ; bill is prominently festooned ; head (in this case) with a fine crest, which flutters in the breeze, giving the bird a daring, chief-like appearance. In Darjeeling this prominent crest helps, one, not a little to distin- guish this species, together with the fulvescent or yellowish brown colour associated with this bird ; upper plumage is glossy brown ; back and tertiary feathers black ; the distinctly banded wings and tail feathers cannot be mistaken when observed usually in the act of settling on a tree, more so the fine tail opened out lke a fan, together with these markings, the dark streaks and mottling of white and brown are to be observed. I have a well marked Crista- tellus before me, at the present moment. You must remember that allowances have to be made for variations of shades of colour ete. according to age of the bird, and season of the year. This eagle is about 25 ins. in length, female 29 ins. ; irides, cere and feet yellow ; head and neck are dull yellowish brown, with dark streaks ; breast is white and streaked. This species used to build on Birch hill, on the oldest, tall trees, it has forsaken this locality, and builds on large inaccessable trees, in Ghoom forest, usually, on the lower outskirts where I observed a nest two years ago. This nest was quite secure from intruders, as it would take the boldest climber all his time, daring and_ skill, to get to ten yards of the nest, should he be lucky enough to escape the bold dashes of the birds at him, which they do in a fierce unrelenting manner. This I observed, when several attempts were made to reach the nest, to secure a young partially fledged bird. These eagles are particularly destructive to poultry and can with ease carry off a full sized rooster, in spite of its formidable spurs. (iv) SERPENT EAGLES have the tarsi bare (unfeathered). These eagles are seldom seen in the district near Darjeeling and the same could be said of the fishing eagles, though most of them can be met with about our big rivers, Runjeet and Teesta. The former, have well hooked, short, curved bills, compressed sides; wings, tail and tarsus long ; feet and claws short. These eagles are frequently met with in the plains, usually beside forests and jungle lands. The latter, the fishing eagles, differ from the former by their longer wings, which reach beyond the tail, also their outer toes are versatile and long ; soles of the feet have sharp scales. These we might say are the most (dor) prominent difference between these two groups. They differ a good deal in habits and in other minor respects. Both serpent and sea eagles can be considered, more birds of the plains. However the Osprey has strong claims to the Himalayas. (v) SEA-EAGLES or FISHING EAGLES (40) PaANDION HALtAiirus, Osprey, is 26 ins. in length (female), male 23% ins. ; above, the plumage is brown ; quills dark ; tail pale in colour with dark bars, a little white showing occasionally ; head and nape white, dark brown stripes on the crown ; dark stripe on either side of the face, from the eyes over the ear coverts ; under parts of the body white ; breast spotted ; irides bright yellow ; legs and feet with a bluish tinge. I know not why this Osprey (Pandion) reminds me of the old legend of Loch-en-eilan (Scotland)—predicting the forsaking of these eagles, of their time honored nesting places on the pines about the old ruined castle of Rothiemurchus. Then returning once more to build as of yore, when a certain curse had been (heing removed) fulfilled :-— When the eagles leave their nests On castled Rothiemurchus’ breast, When five times thirty years have run Since Danald’s deed of shame was done ; Then sing aloud the roundelay Fide et Fortitudine ” ete. Sup-FAMILY BUTEONINA, ( Buzzards, Harriers and Kites) Show us that we are approaching a decided decline in Aquiline qualifications, both in build and daring. The bill of these birds is weak and small ; tarsus long ; feet and hind toe short and only used for gripping. The hind toe and claw, which we observed in the hawks and true eagles to be strong and powerful and chiefly used in dealing a “strike out” blow at their prey. Taking these natural defects into account, it is not surprising that these eagles are less daring and rapacious than the foregoing members of this Natural Order. These birds generally perch on low branches, usually they are on the look out for small mammals, lizards and frogs, or at a push they don’t turn up their noses at carrion, or the labours of their more successful brethern. Harriers, are distinguished from the former eagles by their large bristles, cere, and the lower part of the face having a ruff of small feathers, a sort of disc, which is met with in the owls; the tail is long. These birds are further like the owls in having soft downy EBA 9 plumage, which makes their movements silent, and flight noiseless. They are usually seen hunting near the ground ; skimming over the surface of the land. Sup-FAMILY MILVINE ( Kites) These birds are so well known, that it seems hardly necessary to offer any remarks. ‘Typically they have the bill small, weak and much hooked ; tail in some of the commoner species is forked, which helps, somewhat to distinguish them from most of the eagles, also the appearance of their long, more curved wings when flying. Where- as the true eagles, having long tertiaries and coverts give them a much heavier and more powerful sweep of their pinions, and further the Kites are smaller in size. So that whether resting or flying they are readily distinguished from most birds belonging to the previous groups. (55) HALIASTUR INDUS, Mavroon-backed Kite, is well known to all in India. It is generally found in Bengal near the sea, or rivers feeding on small fish and aquatic insects. This bird is commonly known as the Brahminy Kite, as it is considered sacred to Vishnu consequently enjoys unmolested freedom in the plains, where it, occasionally, gets food thrown to it by pious Hindus and Mahom- edans alike, the latter, owing to certain good fortune it brings on auspicious occasions. This species is 21 ins. long; plumage is rich chesnut ; quills black; head, neck and lower part of the body white. (56) Mitvus Govinpa, Common Pariah Kite, is a well known scavenger in India, so requires no introduction, for it must have long ere this introduced itself where there is anything in the shape of food, going a begging or meant for some one else. HI. Famity STRIGIDAE (Owls) This brings us to the last of the three main divisions, the Lap- fores have been divided into. Owls form a distinct and well marked eroup of soft plumage birds, having large heads, with eyes and face surrounded by a dise or ruff of close set feathers; feet feathered : toes reversible ; body closely feathered. These are the nocturnal Birds of Prey, some few the Athene ete: show a marked apprecia- tion for the day, nevertheless all are more or less nocturnal in their habits. Their soft plumage gives them a silent flight when on the wing. They are divided into the following sub-families :— SuE-FAMILY STRIGINAE (Sereech Owls) These are the common and well known owls. They have a complete facial disk ; wings long ; tail short; bill longish with the tip curved ; tarsus long. (60) Strix Javontca, Indian Screech Owl. Better known as Indian Barn Owl. The bad reputation this bird labours under, in the plains, as a conveyor of evil tidings, especially when the screech is heard, does not seem to effect its own peace of mind, for it never- theless appears to be happy and contented. In Bengal it goes under the name of “Buri churi” the bad bird, in other places, “ death bird,” messenger of death, and so on, names displaying the ignorance superstition and perversity of the human side of nature. (62) PHODILUS BADIUS, is rare and generally found in the warm valleys in Sikkim. None of this sub-family are found in or near Darjeeling. SuB-FAMILY SYRNIINE ( Hooting Owls) These birds usually have well marked plumage and frequent woods and forests, from whence they keep up a hooting call of two notes. The head of this bird is smaller than the former group and facial disk incomplete ; wings rounded ; tarsus short and strong ; tail longish. (66) Syrntum Nivicotum, Himalayan Wood-Owl. The body of this bird is robust and plumage prettily marked. This species is difficult to find owing to its fairly restricted nocturnal habits, also its propensity for remaining hidden away in big trees with dense foliage, and, usually, in well wooded parts of the district generally over 7000 ft., Nivicolum is 17 ins. in length ; plumage mottled above, with reddish brown and white ; wing coverts spotted with white, brown and white bands on the quills ; tail brown with light bands ; lower parts of the body are prettily marked with bars of brown and white. ‘Sus-FAMILY ASIONINA These owls have ear like feathers on each side of the forehead, usually called aigrettes ; wings long; head large ; a fairly complete facial disk of feathers ; bill short and curved. (68) Orus BRacuyotus, Short-eared Owl. These birds visit us chiefly in the cold weather, so that when found in the more wooded districts below Darjeeling, they are usually on their migratory 3 (BY) journey to the plains, taking in easy stages down the hills, as the cold increases and chances of food lessen. These owls are not averse to the light of day, when they can_ fly with considerable ease and are fairly swift on the wing. Although I have this species before me, which was procured in the Terai, nevertheless, it is a difficult bird to figure, in a general sort of way. Less prominent, perhaps, are the two aigrettes on either side of the head. Brachyotus is 15 inches in length ; tips of the wings exceed the tail ; plumage, above, is brown, pale tawny, the feathers with pale margins ; quills darker with brown bars ; bars also, on the tail which is yellowish grey ; disk pale fulvous with black streaks and buff mottled with yellowish brown, underparts are dull yellowish brown with narrow stripes; tarsus and part of the toes plumed ; irides yellow. Owls, being birds with nocturnal habits, offer but few opportunities for close observations, most of the species are difficult to find, as they hide away during the day time, and not a few frequent dense forests. Consequently they are a family, few care to push their enquiries, into, the habits and characteristics of the different species found in the district ; nevertheless they present two or three interesting types of birds, so that a closer acquaintance with the Forest-eagle Owl, or Tawny Fish Owl, or one of the Owlets, Cuculoides or Brodizi, will quite repay, an introduction. (71) Hunva Nipaensis, Forest Eagle-Owl. This fine Eagle Owl is often heard during the night ; in the dense forests at Tongloo and Sandakphu; not infrequently in Darjeeling in the rains, or cold weather. Its deep joo, hoo, sounds weird and melancholy in the silence of night, repeated at intervals, brings back to memory days of toil and dangers in the dense forests, where the big black bear Ursus Torquatus vel Tibetanus, and panther prowl close at hand, and now in the darkness of night these marauders are left to their own sweet wills. In appearance this owl is eagle-like ; colour of the plumage is dark brown ; feathers barred and with edge tawny ; yellowish on the back ; quills brown and having whitish bars ;_ tail pretty well the same colour; underparts of the body brownish white, spotted and barred with brown, more prominent where they coalesce into a pectoral gorget. In general apperance the bird is barred and spotted. In length nipalensis is 23 inches ; bill yellowish ; irides brown ; bill is strong, longish, straight and hooked like the eagles ; upper mandible festooned ; the facial disk imperfect ; wings long, 4th and 5th quills the longest, most of the primaries emarginate on the lower web, tail moderate ; tarsus short, strong and well fea- thered ; toes short, strong and scaled ; claws large and acute. (73) KetTuPA FLAVIPES, Tawny Fish-Owl. This fine /large owl, belong to the genus Ketupa, is about 24 inches in length, bill is Ge) large and strong; large ear-tufts; wings short; irides yellow. These birds live as a rule in well wooded districts and can occa- sionally be seen either hunting for fish or seated quietly on the rocks, at a good height above the river. I remember, seeing this big Fishing Owl on more than one occasion perched, above a big land slip depression, 1n Sikkim, at midday, after its morning’s feed of fish. It was a fine, heavy looking bird, from the distance it was viewed, it scarcely looked like an Owl, more eagle-like in appearance, and probably would have bee mistaken for one of the eagles, had, one, not had previous acquaintance with this bird and its habits. It sits erect, 11 a perpendicular position, the white on the underparts showing out distinctly, giving it a somewhat weird appearance, as it looks grimly dowa at you from the height above, more so in the dusk of evening. Colour of the plumage is dark brown with large spots and bars ; quills brown with rich tawny bands, the same ou the tail. In general appearance flavipes, above is a rich tawny colour. SUB-FAMILY SURNIINA These are the owlets, usually of small size. Birds belonging to this group were beloved by the goddess Minerva, for reasons best known to her ladyship. We may venture to suggest, that, it must have been on account of the uncommonly wise look these birds have, on all occasions they are spotted. They generally hide among the foliage of trees during the day, though they are quite at home in the day light and appear to experience no discomfort. The facial disc is not so prominent in these birds ; bill is short and hooked ; irides yellow ; tarsus moderate, and feathered to the claws. (79) ATHENE CucuLoipEs, Large barred-owlet. You are likely of having ample opportunities of making the acquaintance of this large Owlet in Darjeeling and the district. It usually hides itself during the day amongst the foliage of cryptomeria trees, chiefly on account of the aversion small birds have of its presence. Cuculoides is oftener heard than seen, its plaintive coo-loo-loo-lo can be heard a good distance away. As evening sets in, its more owl-like notes come in something like terminations of irritability, or warning to small birds, that it is about to hunt fora meal. These terminating calls remind us not a little of the screech-owl. In spring, long be- fore the dawn, its ceaseless serenading can be heard, not at all an unpleasant sound. Then poleocephalus (small cuckoo) takes up the tune to its own setting a sort of vich-vick-vick-vick, followed after an interval by Sibia’s shrill and sweet fee-aree-arce-aree-aree ; a few other early risers join in later ou; as the dawn breaks Yuhinas, Green-backed Tits, Willow-Warblers, Hill-Tits and Minlas are all whistling or calling merrily out to each other. Thus it seems as though Bird-land heralds in « bright spring morning. During the day should the smaller birds discover Barred Owlet’s whereabouts, they all go for it with a zest and earnestness worthy of a good cause, and torment it by the discord they set up, till it flies to another tree, where they all follow in hot haste, led to the attack by a few lusty Sibias, and this goes on till, it has fairly given them the slip. Like most of the Athene, cuculoides leads a solitary existence, a sort of retirement to some specially secluded locality, to which it tenaciously adheres. A male of this owlet has taken up its quarters, in the old olive tree at the head of a road leading to the house. In spring he seems to feel the want of company ; his unceasing ¢00-lo0-loo-lo sounds, are more frequently heard, in the cheer- ful spring morning not unlke an invitation. When all bird-land has either paired off, or shown greater devotion and concern for their partner’s welfare in life’s struggle. Long after, all the birds have settled down to the more strenuous business of nest construc- tion, picking up or discarding, with the nicety of qualified architects, the proper materials, of only the plants and mosses, as the case may be, their forefathers had used before them, Cuculoides, be- gins to exhibit more social instincts, he shared a nice tender vole, he had secured for breakfast with his, may be mate of not many summers, his mournful coo-loo-loo-lo has changed for a more master- ful Raptorian call, as he busies himself setting his house in order, in the olive tree, which has a prominent compartment caused chiefly by decay, about ~ up the bole of the tree. This somewhat dank and musty chamber has served, as a safe retreat, when the storms raged ; the lightning flashed and heavens loud sounding artillery had sent every bird under shelters which, at best were precarious. This not a little repulsive looking hollow in the olive tree, has at this particular period got scoured and cleaned inside, and Mrs. Cuculoides lined the floor with soft chips of woody fibre ; a few dead leaves and a feather or two. Cuculoides’s courtship has been short. and philosophical, and now that his mate has entered on the more serious duties of life, he sits on the bough, above, with an ugly pugnacious frown for all who approach too close to his abode ; no doubt he possesses a fair stock of bravery what though he hastely retreated within when Linauetus cristatellus, the bold daring Crested Hawk-eagle alighted just over head, and scanned the horizon ; but you must take into account the occasion, on which Lanius tephronotus the Grey-backed Shrike, caught the rough end of his tongue or when Sibia lost a tail feather or two for pushing his enquires too far, Barred Owlet is about 104 inches in length ; irides are golden yellow ; plumage, above, is dusky rufous, the feathers barred horizon- tally with white and dull reddish ; some white showing on the ereater coverts ; breast white and spotted ; underparts of the body plumage are rufescent. The interesting member of this species I have, just, introduced you to, a fairly permanent resident on the olive tree. By way of a change, no doubt, he shifts his quarters now and then, to one or other of the cryptomerias near at hand, or shady trees in the locality. (80) GuauctpiumM Broprat, Collared Pigmy Owlet, though occa- sionally seen now and then in Darjeeling, prefers a lower elevation, about 5000 to 6000 ft. where this species is found more plentiful. This owlet is about half the size of cuculoides and lacks the conspicuous barred markings. In length it is 62 inches; bill greenish yellow ; irides yellow; wings short ; tarsus, toes and claws strong; tail longish. This bird is the smallest of the family and differs a good deal from