EANHS BULLETIN
MAY/ JUNE 1983
CONTENTS
A new Patron for the Society 24
A Bird Atlas for Kenya, Further Progress 25
White-faced Scops Owl breeding in Kisii 32
Observations on a pair of Lanner Falcons breeding in Iringa,
Tanzania . . 32
Side-striped Jackal .. .. 34
Moorland Cheetah .. •• 34
Aggressive display by snakes . . 35
Letters to the Editor.. 35
The future of the Nairobi Annual Bird Census .. 36
Reviews . , 39
World Congress of Herpetology . . . . . . . . 42
Butterfly Research. ,. 43
Society excursion to Ololua, Nairobi 44
For Sale 45
Wanted ,. .. 45
Society Functions and Notices. 46
A NEW PATRON FOR THE SOCIETY
Having been founded in 1909, the East Africa Natural History Society is the oldest scientific society in Kenya and, indeed, in the whole of East Africa. During the 74 years of its existence, the Society has known many notable occasions; the latest of these regrettably occured at this year’s Annual General Meeting when Mr John S. Karmali, the Society’s longest serving Chairman, resigned due to pressure of other commitments.
Mr Karmali is a well known Kenyan conservationist and bird photographer who has played a leading role in the development of interest in the natural sciences in East Africa, and particularly in Kenya. After joining the EANHS in 1946, he served as a member of its Executive Committee between 1948 and 1952 and was elected treasurer for the last two years of this period. He rejoined the Executive committee in 1966 and v?as elected its Chairman in March 1969; that he was annually re-elected to this post for the following 14 years reveals the confidence of the Executive Committee and of the mem.bership as a whole in his leadership. His is an unparalleled record of service to the Society, and this year’s Annual General Meeting unanimously commended him for his splendid leadership and devotion to duty.
In March of this year, the other members of the Executive Committee began considering how best to show their appreciation of their outgoing Chairman's sterling good work. Thoughts of presenting him with a Life Membership of the Society were thwarted by the fact that Mr Karm.ali became a Life Member in 1974, and in any case this form of recognition seemed hardly sufficient.
However, Article 5 of the Society’s Constitution states that; ’’Patrons and Honorary Members shall be Heads of East African States, distinguished scientists and other such persons, as in the opinion of the Committee, shall have deserved this distinction". It is the opinion of the Executive Committee of the EANHS that Mr Karmali amply deserves the distinction of being a Patron of the Society, and this decision has been supported both by an unanimous ballot within the Executive Committee, and by further unanimous endorsement by the Annual General Meeting of April 18, 1933.
Mr John S. Karmali has thus become our first elected active Patron, and the Society would like to extend its warmest congratulations to him for this achievement, together with its sincere thanks for all the services that he has rendered over the years .
John 0. Kokwaro
CHAIRMAN
East Africa Natural History Society,
24
A BIRD ATLAS FOR KENYA: FURTHER PftCGRESS 11
Subsequent to our 1982 articles in the EANHS Bulletin (pp. A4-70, 36-91 and, with A. Mutere,. 105-109) , the Kenya Bird Atlas project continues' to progress. There are now over .32 500 post - 1970 presence records plus the two categories of breeding data entered on the inapsy and further material continues to be sent in at a steady rate. Of particular note has been the recent arrival of Peter Britton’s records j his contribution of 1 300 iiew atlas points has., in several cases, completely transformed our picture of species* distribution.
We have decided to incorporate as many pre-1970 records as possible into the schpme, these now total over 3 000 (it should; be explained that there are many more pre-1970 records in existence, this figure only includes those which have not been superceded by a post-1970 sighting). To .this end, all relevant data have been extracted from Jackson’s Birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protect- orate (\93o) and, with Mary Sinclair’s help, from the whole of the specimen collection at the National Museum, Nairobi. These old records provide much insight into species’ range fluctuations over the years, which in som.e cases can be related, to habitat modi:^ications .
The financial side of the scheme appears to be quite healthy. ' We still hold grants tq tilling , KSho 8 800 from .the BANKS to fund petrol costs' for two expedit- ions into poorly covered areas. , and the Society has just voted us a'further K'SH. 1 000 to cover the scheme’s stationary, postage and photocopying during 1983. In addition to this, the World, Wildlife Fund has donated KSh. 40 000 towards the publication costs of the completed scheme, we are most grateful for this support.
We have produced an experimental double-page spread to give an idea of the proposed format and appearance, of the completed atlas and, together with atlas- derived publications and other literature, this has been incorporated into a folio for showing to, publishers.
The presentation of breeding data: on the, maps is proving very useful* in particular, a number of species seem to show a relatively compact, more or less centrally situated breeding area, surrounded by regions to which the birds only move during the non-breeding season (or to which only non-breeding birds move) see Fig., 1 for examples: this may prove a major step in the understanding of the ecology of many bird species in Kenya. However, in a scheme like the atlas, breeding records are certain to be in a minority, and thus v;e would like to make a special plea here fpr more to he sent in, Rem.cmber that, in the context of the atlas, we do not, require either details of date (as long as it is post 1970) or progressive breeding behaviour observed' all that we need is a note of the place where breeding takes (took) place,. plus whether the phenomena observed fit into our ’probable’ or 'confirmed' categories. Althoughwe listed the criteria defining these categories in the first of our Bulletin articles, we would like to reiterate them here to help stress the importance of this aspect of the study; these criteria are taken from Sharrock (1976).
Our ’confirmed’ breeding category includes, firstly, the obvious points, eggs and/or young. seen, or young birds in nest heard calling. However, in ' addition, ’co.nfirmed’ breeding is also demonstrated by any one or more of • the following: adults, carrying food to a neSt: adults carrying faecal sacs avmy
from the nest: adult seen sitting on a nest as if incubating, but contents
of nest not visible: recently fledged or dox'/ny young seen: used nest or egg- shells found: adults performing. distraction display or injury feigning.
If you see any of these phenomena, breeding is confirmed. In addition to these points, there are a x^hole series of other phenomena that label breeding as ’probable*; you m.ay feel that some of these criteria do not signify much, but nevertheless wc would like to hear about them.; nest building or excavating nest hole; agitated behaviour or anxiety calls from adults; visiting a probable nest site; courtship (including mating) and display: pair occupying territory
25
during the breeding (usually the wet) season/s; pair observed in suitable nesting habitat during the breeding season. As you can see, many of these 'probable' criteria are extremely simple and rapid to observe and record: you cannot record too many of them ~ please send in as many records as possible.
The atlas scheme is now entering its final phase. While we shall continue to collect records until at least the end of 19S3, we are now using the species maps, overlays and reference literature to write a brief summary of each bird, which will form the text accompanying the maps in the finished book. ADL will work on these species accounts in Nairobi, while DEP compiles the introduction to the study in Kampala; D.J. Pearson has kindly offered to provide brief summaries of the Afrotropical distributions of Kenya's Palaearctic migrants.
The one great failure that we have to report is the total lack of formal entries for the competition to determine the species shown on the final map of our second article (EANHS Bulletin Fig. 5, 1982:90). With over a thousand species to choose from, we obviously greatly underestimated the difficulty of the task. The points that m.ight be used to solve this puzzle are as follows:
1) we noted that it is a 'corraon and well known bird', thus ruling out. any erudite obscurities; a definite 27 of these were again deleted by admitting that it was not a cisticola:
2) the complete absence of the bird from the coast rules out literally hundreds of species of seabirds, "v/aders and species of the forests and other habitats of the coastal lowlands:
3) thus, with a few very important exceptions (see point 5), this is a high- land species; our note that it is common and well known is supported by the almost complete map coverage from Kitale (quarter degree square 37c) to Amboseli (88c), and from Thika (76a) to Lake Victoria; a lot of people clearly know and see it;
4) closer examination of the map shows that it has been detected breeding in a high proportion of the atlas squares that comprise its range, which gives rise to two conclusions: (a) that, as well as being a well known bird, its breeding must be comparatively easy to detect; and (b) that it is relatively sedentary, i.e. that it does not wander far from its breeding areas (compare with Fig. 3 of the same article, in which the Fish Eagle Faliaetus vocifer was shown to breed in relatively restricted areas of its Kenya range, while wander- ing widely frora the breeding areas at other times). At this stage, several thinkers , ‘ usually in the course of imbibing beer with ADL, made the
stab that it might be the Robin Chat Cossypha caffra and, but for the few presence records on Kenya's northern borders, this could vzell have been the case, though the Chat's breeding areas appear to be more restricted to the real 'highland' areas of the highlands. So,:
5) one would have to hunt through Britton's Birds of East Africa (1980) for
a v;ell known, presumably easily detectable relatively sedentary breeding species of the Kenya highlands, which also occurs (but does not breed) in northern Turkana and near Moyale (17a) - all true highland species are instantly ruled out. Ferreting through 'Britton', you would only have to get to number 194 for a good fit; the unknoxm species is the Crovmed Crane Balaerica pavonine (the few records on Kenya's northern borders represent individuals from the separate population of this species that inhabits Ethiopia and the Sudan (Britton 1980) ) Further maps
We feel that one reason for the scheme's popularity with observers lies in the simplicity of the data requested; anyone with knowledge of only a few common species can contribute materially. With this in mind, plus the fact that many of the more intriguing distributions shown by our niaps are those of the commoner birds that are usually incorrectly assumied to be ubiquitous, the maps chosen for this article illustrate our picture of some of the commonest and well known birds, the sparrows of the genus Passer. But even amongst the five members of this genus which occur in Kenya, there are profound differences. Four are
26
indigenous to this country vrhile the fifth, the House Sparrow P. domesticus ^ that very vjell knov;n familiar of man in Surasi^i, is a localised species that has been introduced into East Africa. Similarly, whilst three of the indigenous species (the Chestnut P. eminbey , the Grey-headed P. griseus and the Rufous P. motitensis are familiar to most of us, the fourth, the Somali Sparrow P. castanopterus is a little knovzn inhabitant of Kenya's northern deserts.
The distributions of these five species are now considered in detail, with the aid of the transparent overlays that we have produced for the interpretation of the atlas maps.
Figure ! shows the distribution of the Rufous Sparrov;. Breedong appears to be confined to an almost triangular area in the central highlands that lies mostly over 1 500m. in altitude, vjith rainfall predominantly over 500 ram per year. Around this central breeding area, the bird extends as a non-breeder to Lake Victoria in the west, and to Kitale (37c) and Maralal (38d) in the norths to the northeast and southeast of the highlands there is also a non-breeding dispersal along permanent rivers to decidedly lower and drier areas ,i.e. altit- udes of 500 m and below, and moisture index categories semi-arid and arid (40d, 52a^» 7 b, 88d, i0!a). It could be argued that this central breeding zone with its peripheral non-breeding area is a result of insufficient data, i.e. that the species would in fact he found breeding in many of these peripheral areas if specific searches were instituted. This criticism is possibly valid, but we feel that two points argue against it: (a) that the breeding zone is
centralised and relatively compact and, (b) that many of the supposed non- breeding areas do iii fact receive regular coverage by birdwatchers, so that breeding might be expected to have been noted at some time if it indeed occurs, e.g. Tsavo West and the Taitas, including all the lodges (68d, 39c, iOla, Amboseli (88c), Samburu (51b), Baringo (50a), Kisum.u (60b) , Kakarae.g^ (48d) Kitale-Saiwa-Kongelai (37c) etc.; In any event, we regard the hypothesis of the central breeding area to be valuable in that it indicates the areas in vjhicb simple observation of a very common and v/ell known bird can significantly add to our knowledge, of its ecology. Needless to say, if anyone does have breeding records frotn the * non-breeding range’ we would like to hear about them, as soon as possible I
Figure 2 shows the distribution of the Grey-headed Sparrow; we follow Britton (1980) in combining the four forms found in Kenya into a single species rather than giving each specific status; (since we have absolutely no v/ish to become entangled in problems of nomenclature and taxonomy, the atlas as a whole will follow Britton precisely in these respects). Comparison of the vGrey- headed Sparrow's distribution with that of the Rufous Sparrow (fig. 1) shows a fundamental difference: the Grey-headed extends all over Kenya from sea level
to well over 2 000m altitude. Similarly, it extends throughout the rainfall and moisture index regimes from the driest to the wettest and occurs in dry areas with no permanent rivers or other types of surface water. There seems to be no reason why the species would not be found in every quarter degree square in Kenya if all were visited. Similarly, breeding occurs throughout but is more common over 250 mm per year rainfall and 500 m altitude, and in areas that the moisture index categorises a.s semi-arid or damper. In great contrast to the centralised breeding zone of the Rufous Sparrow (fig. all but one of the Grey-headed's breeding areas fall in a diffuse zone that runs south-westwards from Lake Victoria (60a) , Kitale (37c) and .Baringo (50c) to the coast. This zone does, of course, roughly approximate to the areas of Kenya that receive the highest birdvjatching coverage, so that this factor may have decided the distribution of the breeding observed, particularly in view of the fact that birds in Kenya's arid northern and eastern regions breed only during the food abundance of those area’s short-lived but often torrent- ial rains, when access for birdv?atchers is restricted or impossible; though the absence of breeding records from areas that have had resident observers (Lake Turkana, VJajir (42a) and Garissa (65b) might argue against this.
27
Figure 1: The distribution of the Rufous Sparrow in Kenga Figure t2: The distribution of the Grey-headed
Soarrow in Kenya
Figure 4a: ' The distribution of the $omali Sparrow
Figure 3: The distribution of the Chestnut Sparrow in Kenya •. in Kenya
Symbols as Fig,
The distribution of the Chestnut Sparrov is shown in Figure 3 and resembles that of the Rufous Sparrow (Fig. 1) except for two features: (a) the Chestnut
is mostly peripheral to the highest parts of the highlands and 5 (b) there is a curious isolated batch of records in and around one degree square 29. Since the atlas maps show only the presence or absence of a species, they can never provide an absolute description of the abundance of its individuals. However, the number of atlas squares in which a species is recorded can give a crude estimate of its abundance, provided factors like nocturnal or other obscuring habits or difficulties in identification do not hinder its detection. Since the Chestnut Sparrow is a reasonably well knov?n and distinctive diurnal species we disagree with Britton’s (1980) view that it is mainly a bird of the Rift Valley and vzestwards, v;hile only occurring locally to the east. Excluding the square 29 phenomenon, we have recorded it in 1-6 quarter degree squares in the rift and westwards, as against 22 to the east of the rift.
The records around one degree square 29 demonstrate the effect that a single observer can have in a remote, poorly covered area. The observations were made by D.A. Turner (pers. comra.) vduring a journey from Rajir(42a) to Moyale (17a) during the wet season, when the area was lush and green and many bird species vrere present/breeding. Here then is a point made under the discussion of the Grey-headed Sparrow; man^^ birds occur/breed in the remote northern areas of Kenya only vjhen the rains render them relatively inaccessible/unattractive to highlands-based birdv/atchers . Britton (1^80) mentions that this species wanders widely, and here is a striking example. Another example of this opportunistic breeding by many species after the rains was noted in the Kaisut desert of northern Kenya during 198! (Lewis 1981a),
As with the preceding two species, the few breeding records of the Chest- nut Sparrow are away from the driest areas; six of the seven breeding areas are semi arid, while all presence and breeding records with the exception of those of the square 29 phenomenon are in areas with over 250 mm per year rain. Wiile the bird occurs throughout the altitude range (sea level to 2 000 + ra) the breeding records are all within the range 500 - 2 000 m.
Figure 4a shows the distribution of the relatively unkno^wn Som.ali Sparrow. The nominate race of this species is the "common house sparrow" of the coastal plain of northern Somalia, also extending to the adjacent highlands (Hall & Moreau 1970), but the race P.c. fulgens is a much less known bird which is endemic to the Lake Turkana basin and adjacent areas of Kenya, together with nearby border areas of Ethiopia (Hall Moreau 1970; Britton 1980). VJhile fulgens is resident and thus presumably regularly breeding in northern Kenya, it is seldom encountered by birdwatchers, and the first and in fact only breeding record was obtained as recently as 1931 (Lewis 1931b), though Terry Stevenson (pers. comm.) thinks that it breeds regularly around Kapedo (38c).
A glance at the map (northern portion of Fig. 4) shows at once that it is a consistently ’l^wer and drier’ species than the three so far considered.
Nearly all of its records are under 1 000m altitude, while several in the Lake Turkana basin are under 500 m: the two southernmost records (38a & c) show extension southwards via the rift valley, but further records south of Kapedo (38c) are unlikely due to the rift’s increasing altitude as it enters the Kenya highlands. Most of the records are in areas with under 500 mm per year rainfall, and all but three (26d, 38a & c) are in climates categorised as arid by the moisture index. The single breeding record occurred at a time when the area (27d) x^?as still relatively verdant after the long rains and many species were showing evidence of breeding activity. As with the ’square 29’ records for the Chestnut Sparrow (Fig. 3), this is an instance of the m.ajor contributions that can be made by observers in northern and eastern Kenya during the, wet seasons.
Figure 4b shows the distribution of the House Sparrow, and those who are familiar with its abundance in Europe v/ill be surprised by the very restricted nature of its Kenya range. This localisation is due to the, fact that it is
30
not indigenous to Kenya, but has bean artificially introduced to Mombasa (114b), probably as an accidental passenger on large cargo ships from India. The records to the northwest of Mombasa both occur along the main Mombasa - Nairobi road and ; railway (Mariakani 102c; vai 101b) and thus the bird seems to be making its way inland in large road vehicles and/or trains, i.e. in a similar manner to its ship-born introduction to Mombasa (Lewis 1983). There is an unconfirmed record from Mtito Andei (89c), (D.A. Turner pers. comm.) so any further records from railway stations and/or heavy vehicle stopping places between Mombasa ana Nairobi would be most significant arid worth reporting; something to watch out for.
The birds at the Caltex petrol station near Voi (101b) have been breeding for all they are worth and it may be just a matter of time before the progression up the road/railway reaches Nairobi (75b) , where the abundance of nesting sites and food could produce a population explosion that might cause considerable expense to the civic authorities (Lewis 1983). One factor which might arrest further expansion or the House Sparrow into the Kenya highlands is interspecific competition with the closely related Rufous Sparrow, which has been recorded in the quarter degree square to the west of Voi (Fig. 1); this latter species is, however, much less a commensal of man.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ;
We would like to thank' all contriburmrs for their support ■'■f the scheme so far. We look f-'-rward to. more c-~>ntributir.ns .
REFERENCES
Britton, P.L. (ed) . 1930. Birds of East Africa their habitat, status and
distribution . Nairobi: F.ANHS.
Hall, B.P. & Moreau, R.E. 1970. An atlas of speciation in African Passerine birds. London: British Museum (Nat. Hist.).
Jackson, F.J, 1933. The birds of Kenya Colony and the Uganda Protectorate. London: Gurney & Jackson.
Lewis, A.D. 1981a. Birds of the ICaisut Desert, Northern. Kenya. East Africa Natural History .Society Bulletin. 1981:60-64.
■' !9Slb, The Somali Sparrow Passer castanopterust a breeding record for East Africa. .Scopus 5:33.
" ” 1983. Range extension and population increase of the House
Sparrow in Kenya,. Ecopjus 7i23~26.
Sharrock, J.T.R. i976. The Atlas of Breeding Birds in Britain and Ireland. London: T. S A.D. Poyser.
YOUR INITIALS
The published version of the Atlas will contain a section listing the names of all contributors. Will all those people concerned please forx-7ard to ADL their full Christian names or, alternatively, their initials as they would like them displayed in print.
Adrian D. Lewis, Geology, Box 30197, Nairobi
/v
Derek E. Pomeroy, Zoology, Makarere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
31
WHITE-FACED SCOTS OWL BREEDING IN KISH
On !9 September 1982 a young owl, unable to fly, was brought to the school. It had been found on a nearby path. An attempt was made to keep it alive in the school laboratory by T)tovidinp it with scraps of meat and water. However, on 25 September it was found dead in the cage. Later I heard that a second dead or dying specimen had been present in the same place.
The bird was identified as a tJhite-faced Scops 0\<7l Otus leucotis by the following characteristics: a broad, black band around a largely white facial
disc and orange eyes. It had white outer edges to sorae of the scapulars.
Also the size was near that given by Mackworth-Praed & Grant (1957) and by Williams (1963): length fror.'^ bill to tail 23 cm; vring 16 cm; tail 7.5 cm
long.
That it was a young bird was shown by the fact that it apparently could not fly and because the under-wing coverts did not cover the shafts of the primaries and secondaries. Also, as mentioned in Mackworth-Praed Grant (op. cit.), the top cf the head and the nape vrere the same verm.iculated grey colour as the other feathers.
There were some features in which the bird did not agree with the descrip- tion but, I think, this was also because it ~was a young bird. Although the feet and toes were feathered, these were, rather hair-like, especially the latter. The herns were short and not conspicuously black-tipped but of the same colour as the feathers on the head.
This observation may be cf interest as Brov7n and Britton (1^80) have only three records and none for our region, B(5), north and north-east of Lake Victoria.
REFERENCES :
Mackworth-Praed & Grant, C.H.B. 1957. Birds of Eastern and North Eastern Africa. Vole 1, London: Longmans Green ^ Co.
Williams, John G, 1963. A Field Guide to the Birds of East and Central A frica . London : Coll ins .
Brown, L.K. & Britton, P.L. 1980. The Breeding Seasons of East African 'Birds. Nairobi: EANFG.
Brother M, Maas, Cardinal Ctunga High School, Mosocho, Box 520, Kisii.
OBSERVATIONS OF A PAIR OF LANNER FALCONS F. 3IARNICUS NESTING IN IRINGA, TANZANIA
17.6.82
Tv7o birds, obviously falcons, were noticed for the first time as they swooped low over the main dual- carriageway into the town of Iringa (7°45’S 35°40'E)
The species was not confirmed at this stage, due to bad light in the late evening .
23.6.82
One bird, well seen for several minutes perched on a ledge approximately 25m up on the bell tower of the Roman Catholic Cathedral. The rufous crown was clearly visible and this, together with the large size and the pale underwing, confirmed the species as F. biarnicus ,
26.6.82
Two birds seen, again in the immediate vicinity of the bell tower. Despite repeated efforts, no trace of a nest was seen, nor was either bird observed
32
carrying nesting material.
01.7.82
Again a good view of both birds, the larger (presumably the female) was perched on the ledge, the other was flying in the near vicinity.
18.7.82
Permission x<?as obtained from the priests, who were very co-operative, to enter the bell tower and search for a nest or signs of nesting. The tovjer is brick-built and square and the bells are reached by means of a staircase inside the tower. The falcons themselves were not seen on this occasion but there was plenty of evidence of their presence. The birds apparently gained access to the tower through the v^indoxsTs at bell level, these were covered with weld- mesh, now broken in several places. The remains of three mice x«7ere found and there x-7ere feathers and droppings all over the belfry. We questioned some church going Tanzanian youths, who agreed that the birds had been around for several x^eeks and even confirmed the species by pointing to the correct bird when shown Plate 13 in P.oberts Birds of South. Africa.,
20.7.82
One bird, possibly the male, seen flying ax^ay from the bell tov/er in a southerly direction.
26.7.32
At last the nest X7as located in a circular depression above the windoxjs in the bell tower. The viex; fropi the road belox7 was rather restricted and only the outer edge of the nest could be seen, hox^ever, the female x.xas clearly visible, sitting. The nest x^as quite a neat arrangem.ent of tx^igs and X7as already marked x^ith x-7hite droppings, as was the wall of the tox^er below the site. There are similar depressions on the other three x>7alls of the tower and T7e deduced that they ’vere originally intended to house a four-faced clock.
27.7.82
The male bird v:as seen perched on the ledge above the nest site to the south-west, devouring prey. After eating his fill, he flex-7 to the nest xvith the remains and left them there for the sitting female. She took about three minutes to eat, standing up towards the back of the nest and then flew on to the nearby church roof and deposited the remains there after giving the carcase a few more tugs. Unfortunately the prey x^as rather mangled by the male and X7as difficult to recognise. It was mammalian rather than avian.
When the female rose to eat there was no sign of young underneath her, but the angle, of viex7 would preclude seeing eggs or very small chicks. After depositing the remains, the female returned to the nest and settled dox-zn again very quickly,
07.8.82
Female sitting on the nest, m.ale not seen.
10.8.82
No adult birds on the nest, or flying in the vicinity. A number of chicks could be seen, their heads being just visible above the level of the nest.
There was almost no movement by the chicks. However, it was possible to make out at least two chicks, completely x-zhite in colour,
14.8.82
Female sitting on the nest, some chicks seen but impossible to count. Male bird not seen.
23.8.82
Chicks nox7 larger and more mobile and as they approached the front of the nest, four xzere counted. The feathers of the head, l>reast and back dox-Tny white X7ith heavy spotting on the upper breast and at least two of the young birds were showing a hint of the rufoxis crown. All four chicks moving about the nest from one side to the other. They appeared to be almost as big as the female bird but one chick xzas definitelv ■ smaller than the others.
, 25.8.32
All four young birds xzell seen in the. nest, all very mobile and moving
about all over the nest. One bird actively preeninp. the wing feathers. Some downy feathers still on the head and back, the breast heavily spotted and on two of the birds there was a hint of the rnoustachial stripe as well as a fairly marked rufous crown. The backs of all four birds was mottled black and white, while the wing coverts appeard to be very fluffy. The parent birds were not viewed on this occasion.
It is hoped that at least tv70 more visits to Iringa will be possible in the near future, before the young birds fly. It is also interesting to note that the bells of the cathedral are rung with gusto every Sunday atid on other special occasions and that the banners' nest is no more than three metres above the bells.
Elizabeth Boswell, P.O. Box 23, Mufindi, Tanzania.
SIDE - STRIPED JACKAL
On 13 April 1983 at about 08.00 b we were driving along the road between Lolgorien and the Siria escarpment where there is open bush country. A few kilometres before the foot of the escarpment we noticed a pair of Lappet- faced cultures Torgos trachcliotus not far from the road watching something at a nearby carcase. For a better view we passed another bush and stopped.
The "something" turned out to be a Side-striped Jackal Canis adustus feeding on the leftover of a kill (zebra) and fiercely defending it against the other scavengers around, some African I/liite -backed Vultures Gyps africanus ^ Hooded Vultures Neophron monachus and one Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas . With hairs raised and tail lifted like an angry cat the Side-striped Jackal looked quite impressive. This is the first time we have seen this jackal in this area.
A. Lohding, Loigorien; Box 93, Kilgoris.
MOORLAND CHEETAH
It would be interesting to know if any other members have observed Cheetah Reinenyx jubatus on the moorland zone of Mt , Kenya.
In March we saxvT a single animal at about 4000 m whilst walking on the S ir iinon Track above the high altitude airstrip. It was walking on the path up the mountain but at our approach it disappeared in the ericaccous scrub before we had recovered enough from our surprise to examine it more closely; and the altitude was not exactly conducive to d a s h i n g on up the track for a second look
After about three hours vralking on the same day we were lucky enough to see a Cheetah again at an even higher altitude. It was walking on the crest of a hill way above us and after a short walk lay down in ■ the typical cheetah position with the head up, partly hidden in the tufted high altitude grass.
We wondered if it was the same animal or is the cheetah common
34
above 4000 - 4300 m?
On a previous visit v;e had seen many Bushbuck Tragelaphvs scriptus , Bush Duiker Silvicapra grimmia and many small rodents as well as Jackson's Francolin Francolinus jacksoni, however , these \;ere not seen in any number on the day the cheetah was observed. It would appear likely that there would be ample food available at this altitude , although it XAjould seem impossible for the cheetah to use its normal hunting methods of chasing and running dovjn the prey among the moorland scrub and tufted grass- land .
Lise Campbell, Box 14469, Nairobi.
AGGRESSIVE DISPLAY BY SNAKES
On 2 September 1978 at iO.,00 h I x.?as driving up the Great North Road from Isenya tot/ards Athi River in bright sunshine when I saw tx\To snakes disporting theapselves on the tarmac road. Both snakes were about four feet long and as thick as a man’s wrist, but one seemed slightly smaller than the other.
The larger snake repeatedly crawled on top of the smaller one from behind, ending with its head close behind thar of the smaller snake and the curve of its body overlapping the smaller snake on both sides. Then either the smaller snake crawled out from underneath or the larger one threvj itself convulsively into the air, several times landing flat on its back. They continued in this way for about ten minutes, (ignoring my vehicle, myself and a group of interest Masai spectators) before departing together, pushing against each other with their necks, into the long grass of the roadside verge.
The snakes r/ere pale strain colour with dusky, cryptic markings along the flanks and rough scales. The belly was yellow with smooth, shiny scales.
The heado were triangular, with the rear corners sticking well out in front of a long tapering neck. I think they were Puff Adders Bitis arietans v;hich are coiisTron in the area. The vigorous activity shown, especially by the larger snake, was in mark.ed contrast to the usual sluggishness of this species.
These snakes \jere probably rival males. Such aggressive or threatening displays have, been reported before but are rarely seen. (Snakes that carry on like this on public roads stand a very good chance of getting run over.)
Jo Darlington, c/o Section of Entomology, National Museums of Kenya,
Box 40658, Nairobi.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Sir 5
In answer to the letter in the last (January /April Bulletin from Daphne Sheppard who observed squirrels eating honey in her garden. It is quite normal for bush squirrels Paraxerus ochraceous to include nectar in their diet. Bush Squirrels, like most squirrels, are opportunist omnivores and in the. x/iid x^?ili ccnsu.me a 'wide range of foods of both plant and animal origin (e.g. insects and birds eggs for the latter), as available and their catholic tastes x^rill be well known to those of your readers who keep
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bird tables in bush squirrel country. PbingdoUs in his Mammals of East Africa Vol. lib notes that P. ochraceous will *pluck flowers, eating the reservoir of nectar and discarding the petals’;' East African Ground Squirrels Xerus rutilus go one further and eat the entire flower.
Jill Cambell 3 Box 14469^ Nairobi.
Sir,
I plan to set up an aquarium of local fresh water fish and plants and would like to appeal to your readers for assistance in obtaining stock for this proj ect .
Fish (excluding our local Nairobi varieties) should not exceed 15 cm in length-. Please send between 10 “ 20 small and shoaling fish; others 5 - 10.
I V70uld be grateful for any information you may have concerning their source, habits and identity
Plants should be submerged. Those with floating leaves are not suitable. Please send 5 - 10 plants of each variety and advise as many particulars of source, type of v^ater etc. as possible.
Polythene bags for packing and, if necessary, a bottle of oxygen can be lent to you. The cost of sending by Peugoet Service or similar will be refunded. My house telephone is Nairobi 25134. Thank you in anticipation.
. John Worth, .Box 50703,, Nairobi.
From time to time over the past several years T have called at the Society’s office and asked, indeed implored, the Hon. Secretary and even the Chairman himself to have nestboxes manufactured on behalf of the Society for sale to Members or anyone who might want to buy them.
In my area of Karen/Langata so many trees (particularly dead trees with suitable nesting holes) have been cut dox^■'n that, unless birds are adaptable to changing their nesting sites, as some are, I fear a diminution of the number of birds dependant on holes in trees in which to nest.
Anyhow T.’hat fun it would be to have a few nestboxes of various sizes in one’s garden and just see what species v?ould use them.
I have ETO Field Guide No. 3 ’’Nestboxes” with diagresms etc., and would willingly lend this to the Society if they will engage a carpenter and have some boxes made. It appears to be quite a simple task to anyone less incomp- etent than myself at carpentry.
So, if you would like to buy nestboxes and put them up in your garden, do please write in to the Hon. Secretary to support this suggestion.
Eric Risley, Box 24751, Nairobi.
THE FUTURE OF THE NAIROBI ANNUAL BIRD CENSUS
The following; two letters on the subject of the. Nairobi Annual Bird Census 'nave been, received by the Society i
THOUGHTS ON THE ilNNUAL BIRD CENSUS IN NAIROBI
What, I am tempted to ask, is the point of this annual census? Few will deny that taking part in it can be fun. As to other positive aspects, I am less sure. It kindles enthusiasm of course., and maybe introduces a few more
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folk each year to the delights of birdv/atching. But does it tell us much about the birds of Nairobi, except that they are largely unpredictable, which v/e already knew?
Take our garden, for instance, some two hectares of ex-coffee farm in Lower Kabete, left with a few old fig and eucalyptus trees. 'Ne began to change its ecology some thirteen years ago by planting a large number of trees and shrubs, exotic and indigenous, most of them said to be attractive to birds.
VJhen we moved in in 1970 the scolding calls of Fiscals, two on either side of the house and a couple more thrown in for good measure, almost succeeded in transforming me into a birdhater. This was counteracted by frequent sightings of the Long-crested Eagle (the Society's emblem) and the discovery of the Red-throated Wryneck who, patronising the birdbath just outside a window, kept me sane on the other side of the glass through many frustrating struggles with my telephone.
I have been checking through our admittedly spasmodic records, and see that while the Long-crested Eagle was sighted fairly regularly, either in the garden or in trees and sky around it, from 1970 to 1976, it has not been seen here since, until one brief overflight in early October last year. Meanwhile Augur Buzzards are frequently around. Mow, sometimes see one Fiscal, some- times none. LTiere have they gone? We have neither seen nor heard the Red- throated Wryneck since October 1978. The Northern Pied Babbler was a frequent if irregular resident, in flocks of four to six, from 1973 - 79 but has not been seen or heard since, and the Taxmy-f lanked Prinia resident in 1970 - 72 appears to have sought fresh fields. In April 1976, well over 100 Green Pigeons exploded one evening from one of our fig trees. Noxv we rarely see or hear them, though three were decent enough to drop by for the annual census. Common Bulbuls, Baglafecht’s and Kolub's Weavers, Streakey Seedeaters , Fire Finches and Olive Thrushes were common when came, as they are now, but skulkers, desirable in our eyes as photgraphic models, continued resolutely to take cover in the. wild uncleared bottom of the garden. On the positive side some of these ex-skulkcrs , the Robin Chat and Ruppell's Robin Chat now make frequent use of the birdbaths near the house;; a pair of Tropical Boubou Shrikes, who once mocked us from afar, loved our tree fuschia until had to be pruned to allow humans a little light - and will, no doubt, love it again.
The Green-headed Sunbird made its first appearance in November 19S1. So there have been pluses as well as tfiinuses.
Which brings me to my final point. This year's census day, as we all knov/, was extremely wet, reducing our score to the lowest ever, 28 species. But three days earlier on a sunny evening, we inadvertantly disturbed an African Wood Owl (our first sighting in this garden) from his perch; and in the two days prior to the census our birdbaths were visited by, among others, the Greenheaded Sunbird, an Eastern Double-collared Sunbird, a Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird and a male Blackcap, all of vrhom xv^ould have lent lustre to our list, not to mention the regulars who wisely remained under cover on a wet Sunday
So, to return to the beginning, what is the point? Or, more constructively, can we do more with the figures obtained than just summarise the species and numbers seen? Can we glean useful comparisons? Or will it continue as just one fun day a year? - weather permitting!
Joan Karmali, Box 42202, Nairobi.
THE 1932 BIRD CENSUS
Those of us who braved the elements to participate in the Society's 1982 bird census saw some interesting birds and had a qood tim.e, especially at the convivial get-together at the Malobas ' house in the evening.
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The combination of rainy weather and a poor turnout, hovjever, meant that the total day's list was not truly representative of the variety of birds found in the Nairobi area. We have therefore decided not to publish the list. The 1982 bird census, like the rest of that unfortunate year, is best forgotten.
Should we have an annual bird census at all? And if so, in what form?
The Annual bird census was started in 1973 by the Society's executive committee, and organised by John Gerhart. It is based on the success of the American "Christmas Counts". In the United States, local groups all over the country take part in these annual counts, held over the Christmas and New Year period. The censes area there is a 15 ~ mile- diameter circle, if I remember correctly. Great care i‘ take-n by the organisers to place the circle over the most varied habitats i The Christmas Counts are almost a sporting activity and there is great rivalry among local groups as to who will get the biggest species count.
There has been some recent criticism that the Nairobi census is not "scientific” enough, and it isn't scientific, but it has been good fun in the past. Finally, someone has to organise any type of census, and someone has to compile and analyse the results. Following Joim Gerhart's posting to Cairo, Uennie Angw:n, Pat Ucottcn and myself took on this tasl;. We have done it long enough. I.s anyone else willing to help?
Please fill out the enclosed questionnaire and return it to the Society. Please only fill it out if you are fairly sure that you xjill be able to participate. You might like to bear the following ideas in mind;
Perhaps the annual "census” should concentrate on listing species only and leave put numbers, which are bound to be highly Inn-accurate? Perhaps the Society should have more intensi’''e and scientific counts of smaller areas instead?
Fleur Ng'^reno, Box 42271, Nairobi.
I would like to fully endorse the views given above. As it stands, the annual census IS a lot of fun - I enjoy belting around the Athi River Basin Circuit ' of the Nairobi National Park trying to find over iOO species - and it is a valuable way for Society rriembers to meet and to participate in outdoor activ- ities together.
But, in terms of any serious scientific purpose, it contains^ far too many variables to be of any real use; differing census dates; too few’ censuses per year; varying numbers of observers and. so varying amounts of Nairobi covered; varying corapctence of observers, leading to uneven coverage of the more obscure species; insufficient data on climate., vegetation etc.
IF wre wish to do something m.ora significant, it would, as Fleur says, be far, far oettcr to sur’v^ey a SMALLER APdlA MORS OFTEN: the sort of results that
can be derived from such an exercise are well shovm by Derek Pomeroy and Beatrice Tengecho's article The importance of dams (EANHS Bulletin ! 982:77-85) Furthermore, if we decided to survey a small area on a regular (monthly, quarterly or v;hatever) basis, it would be useful to have at least one fully competent observer in each team, so. that obscure species are not left as 'small brow'n birds'.
In her letter, Fleur mentions a questionnaire aimed at determining the sort of survey that we, the Society members, would like in the future. Such a questionnaire is a good idea, but I have tal:en the liberty of emitting it for the time being since, before asking for volunteers for the survey teams, there is one crucial position that has to be filled first: an ORGANISEP>. for the
vjhole project.
Occupied as I am with the Kenya bird atlas, I certainly have no timie for such a job and, as far as I know, the same goes for the members of both the
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Executive Cormnittee and the Ornithological sub-Coranittee of the Society.
However, I and others would certainly be vxilling to help with the interpretatim of the results, an V to give advice on tnethods.
So we are, first of all, asking for volunteers for this post of co-ordinator, a person or persons to be responsible for organising the various volunteers into teams, for ensuring that the study site/s receive/s regular and adequate coverage and for collating the results of the surveys. If such an organiser is forthcoming, we will go further ahead, if not then we will forget the whole concept in any form.
Lastly, I want to emphasise the element of choice here. I am not trying to be a wet blanket and there is absolutely NO compulsion to opt for a more sig- nificant and scientific scheme. As it stands, the census IS a lot of fun and, if an organiser can be found, we CAN continue it along the present lines.
But, if we want to have the present fun AND the feeling of doing something eminently constructive and worthwhile, then we should change our aims and methods .
Adrian D. Lewis, Geology, Box 30197, Nairobi.
REVIEWS
THF MARSH LIONS by Brian Jackman and Jonathan Scott, 1982. London: Elm. Tree Books. Pp. 224 with numerous colour photogranhs and black and white drawings. £12.50
I hesitated to take this on, as all reports indicated that its anthropomorphic level almost had the lions talking to the authors ... I
However, I read it, cover to cover, while in camp myself in the Mara.
I know the area backwards (even some of the characters) and from many years of experience of similar circum.stances , when lions, individual lions, take on particular characteristics and personalties of their own, I found it difficult to fault in any way.
In stark contrast to much of the material that has been published on Africa, particularly Kenya, in recent years, I found the book totally readable from
cover to cover. It is not necessary to be a ’Wildlife Expert*, or a Scientist,
(or even a Safari Guide I) to thoroughly enjoy it.
It does not come across as a book of superb photographs, illustrating an
excellent text, neither is it a book of readable text, illustrated by excellent
photographs . . . to my mind, it is an extrem.ely well done combination of both.
It does what it says it vrill do, right on the front cover, and tells the Story of an African Pride . . . very well indeed.
Peter Davey, Box 15007, Nairobi. .
THE BIRDS OF AFRICA Volume 1 . Ostrich - Birds of Prey by L.H. Brown,
E.K. Urban and K. Nei<nnan, 1982. London: Academic Press. Illustrated by Martin Woodcock and Peter Hayman. Pp. 521, 32 plates (28 colour, 4 black and white). Price not shown.
This is the first of a set of four volumes, x^hich when complete will cover the avifauna of the entire z\frican continent. It is the first of its type covering the continent as a whole, and is a tribute to the late Leslie Brox^n who sadly died before the completion of this first volume.
As shovm in the acknowledgements, many leading authorities on various families and groups have co-operated and critically examined the early drafts
39
of this volume 5 such a wealth of knowledge drawn from ornithologists both throughout the continent and in other countrie make this first volume a truly team production.
A 28 page introduction gives readers a concise and informative over all view into:
a) The main features of the African bird faunas (complete with topographical and vegetation ■ maps) .
b) Some suggestions for future research on African birds.
c) A detailed account of the scope, content and layout of this first volume.
Readers are advised that this nevj handbook is prepared by field ornithologists mainly for field ornithologists , though taxonomy and systematics have not been completely forgotten. All species accounts include details covering range and status, description, field characters, voice, general habits, food and breeding habits, i-ajor references for eacl\ species are also given at the end of every species account.
A map accompanies each species account, but sadly on closer inspection many are inaccurate and misleading. Certainly more attention to detail and accuracy should have been paid to such an important feature of the book, and one that most readers glance at first. To cite a fev^ examples from, an East African viewpoint: black Heron, Saddle-billed Stork, Glossy Ibis, blnite-backed
Duck, Pygmy Goose, Cape Wigeon, Osprey, Hooded Vulture and Booted Eagle are all sho^^m as occurring throughout Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, yet such species as Bat Hawk, Swallow- tailed Kite, African Fish Eagle and African Marsh Harrier are shevm as. being generally or almost totally absent from Kenya. In other cases maps show distribution in countries where the species has not even been record- ed: Cassinis Hawk Eagle is shovm as occurring over a sizeable portion of
western Tanzania, yet there are no records at all from that country. Bean Goose is shown as occurring as a vaRrant in Nigeria, when in fact the record was from central Mali. Similarly the inclusion of a dubious record of Red Kite from. South Africa is unfortunate, as this has now been officially deleted from the southern African list. There is still no record of the Red Kite from sub- Saharan Africa.
The illustrations by Martin Woodcock and Peter Haynan are generally of a high standard, vrith the colour reproduction and printin.g equally so. One minor criticism that can be voiced is that too many species are crammed into some plates, particularly Anatidae. Also whether so many palaearctic species, occurring only in the extreme north of Africa warrant inclusion in full colour when they are only marg'inally represented on the continent. I feel it is unfortunate that the four plates’ of birds of prey in flight are in black and white? this x>jould have been so much more meaningful and a more useful flight identification guide had they been depicted in colour. I personally see little use in having any black and v/hite plates in any bird book, especially a major handbook such as this.
This first volume ends with a fine and detailed bibliography covering both general and regional references, as well as references for each of the families covered in this volume. This section of the book will certainly be welcomed by all readers and researchers.
The printing of the book is of an extremely high standard, and hopefully the irritations I found with the maps will be rectified in the three future volumes. I am sure that the new joint editors of Volumes 2-4, ably assisted by their Editorial advisory beard will set as hi;;h a standard as possible in the forthcoming volumes, and incorporate the vast amount of knov;ledge and data that, over the years, has been scattered through dozens of journals and other publications, many of which are simply not available to workers in Africa. It is to be hoped that the' publishers will not delay too long in . the publication of the remaining volumes. Costs of bird books seem to increase by leaps and
40
bounds almost annually and such an important and major reference work should be within the reach cf all pockets.
This series will be a handsome pift for anyone with an interest in African birds, and will justly grace any library, bookshelf or coffee table.
D.A, Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi.
Tlir. FLORA CF TROPICAL FIST AFRICA (F.T.E.A)
The following 5 parts were published 5.11.1982 by A. A. Balkema, P.O. Box 1675, Rotterdam.
/\Mx^.RYLLIDACEAS by Inger Nordal (Oslo) pp . 3 1 . Fig.9. Price £2.30 BALSAMINACEAE by C. Grey-Wilson (Kew) pp. 77. Fig. 12. Price £5.30 CRUCIFERAF. by Bengt Jonscll (Stockholm) pp.74. Fig, ,25. Price £5.00
GPvAMINAE part 3, by W.O, Clayton & S.A. Renvoise (Kew) pp.447. Fig 85.
Price £24,50
RUTACEAE by J.O, Kokwaro (Nairobi) pp.52, Fi.g.l3, Price £3.50
The F.T.E.A, whose preparation began at Kew in 1949, is the basic work on the vascular plants of Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania on x<rhich all other less comprehensive or more popular works dealing with the plants of these countries must depend for the accuracy of their nomenclature. It provides detailed descriptions with keys for every taxon and one or more full page line drawings for almost all .genera. 57hen complete, it will consist of soma 220 parts, one for each family and up to 4 parts for the largest families.
113 of these parts have now appeared. Parts published up to 1978 may be obtainable from the three East African Government Printers or from the Text Book Centre, Box 47540, Nairobi.
The costs of preparation of this flora have always been borne by the employers of the editorial staff at Kew and of the individual authors, i.e. principally by the British Government. The cost of printing was until 1978 borne by the three East x\frican Governments or the East African Community who received the income from sales, '-fhen the cormunity broke up in 1978 publication ceased, although the preparation of typescript and illustrations for further parts continued. East African scientists (not only botanists, for many others need to knew the names of plants) must always be grateful to the well known publishers, A. A. Balkeraa for makin.g resumed publication on a commercial basis possible. It is reerettable that ever increasing printing costs have led to prices beyond the reach of most people in East Africa. The prices quoted here are applicable in the Netherlands^ they include posta.ge if payment is included with the order, but for orders amounting to less than £10 a handling charge of £1.50 must be added. A very generous discount has been offered to the EANHS in order to reduce prices to customers in tropical Africa if exchange control difficulties can be overcome and a suitable sales mechanism arranged.
The most important of the parts now reviev/ed is Gramineae part 3 v\’'hich deals with the large tropical tribes Paniceae and Andropogoneae containing 481 of the 858 East African grass species and 79 of the 1 55 genera and closes with an index to the whole family. The largest genus is Panicum with 68 species, not quite so lar.ge as Eragrostis with 71 species in part 2. The value of grasses as food (cereals) and fodder and their abundance from, sea shore to the high mountains hardly need stressing. It is perhaps worth mentioning that, popular opinion net withstanding, over most of East Africa the grass cover is more important for soil conservation than trees and bushes.
Inger Nordal ’s account of the Amaryllidaceae deals with 23 native species in 7 genera and gives a useful key to 15 non-native species commonly
41
cultivated licre.
Agapanthus and Tulbaghia are not included and it is presumably intended that these should be treated as members of a separate family the Alliceae. True Arnaryllids as tae family is now defined have bulbs and are usually very ornamental the 'fire ball lil^^^' Pcadoxus (Haemanthus) multiflorus being the most beautiful bulbous plant in Africa. Often the bulb is poisonous and in one or two instances the alkaloides are of possible value in the control of cancer .
The Balsaminaceae with, one genus Irapatiens has 70 species in East Africa, all Xvith attractive flowers, some of which are grovm as ornamentals. They inhabit hilly or mountainous places, and all require plentiful moisture so that not one aas been found in Somalia all of which is too dry.
The Cruciferae (Cabbage family) hac 53 E. African species in 21 genera, several o..: ’ Uiich are introduced weeds or escapes from cultivation. They are often edible and hot to the taste and never poisonous. They are usual!* y cold-lov5.ng, being reprarentel both on arctic and antarctic islands, end it is not surprising to find 5 species including the endemic genus Oreophyton ("mountain plant" in Creek) at altitudes of 4 200 m or more on E. African m.ountsins and only one species, a water cress (Rorippa) ar low as ICO m near the coast. Rather ; surprisingly , the Cruciferae ere also prominent in middle eastern semi deserts (which are cold at night ij.t winter) and 3 oi! these s?ene.ra (Farsetia , Matthiola and Ceratoailgma) have beeij. found in the NED.
.Members of the EdCIlS will be pleased to see the work of their chairman. Professor Kokwnro, in tne account of the Rutaceae. This aromatic far.ily ;las 52 species in ].4 .genera in E. Africa, including the introduced Citrva, It is represented in Europe by herbs such as the Rue' (P.uta) and South A.frica chiefly by hundreds of shrubby species with tiny ericoid leaves but t^ere by trees, shrubs or lianes with normal leaves, the most striking being the Cape Chestnut Calodendruw ("Beautiful tree" in Grech) ,
Rutaceae. r'.iy form 20 ~ 30% rf the biomass in Nairobi forests.
It is cmcullent news that Lal]:em.a announces 9 further parts to appear in 1933 - 4 . Of -these 2 parts to cca’;plete tlie Orchidaceae will be the most important, two \.ill deal with medium-sized families, Lobeliaceae and Myrsinaceae and 5 vrith tiny families.
J.B. Gillett,. E.A. Herbetrium, Nairobi.
NORLD CONGRESS OF HERPETOLOGY
Ly recent action of the officers and official representatives of the major national and international lierpetological societies, an inter- national committee has been est-ablished to plan the first World Congress of Herpetology.^ The congress wall be held in 3-5 years at a site yet to be selected. The Planning Committee consists of:
DONALD G. BROAX-LEY (Zimbabwe) HAROLD G. CCGGEd, (Australia)
J.C. DANIEL (India)
ILYA S. DARSVSKY (U.S.S.R.)
MARINES S. HCOGMOED (Netherlands) KRAIG .ADLER (U . S . A . ) ,
TOSHIJIRO KAWAMURiv (Japan) MICHAEL R.K. LAMBERT (U.K.) HUBERT SAINT GIRONS (France) P.E. VANZOLINI (Brazil)
DAVID B. WAKE (U.S.A.) Secretary-general
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The congress will be organized to include a wide range of topics, to appeal to all persons interested in the scientific study of amphibians and reptiles. The committee currently is setting guidelines for operation, including the establishment cf a larger and broadly representive International Herpetological Committee to provide a self “perpetuating mechanism for future congresses.
The Planning Committee solicits comments from the herpetological community on all aspects, in particular the choice of a convenient site and content of the congress. Potential hosts for the congress are also invited to communicate. Further announcements will be published in this journal.
Address comments or questions to any member of the Planning Committee or to the Secretary-'General : Professor Kraig Adler, Cornell University,
Section of Neurobiology and Behaviour, Seeley G. Mudd Hall, Ithaca, New York 14853, U.S.A.
The above notice was recently received from Dr Broadley whose address is:
Dr D.C. Broadley,
Curator of Herpetology, National Museum,
Box 240 , Bulawayo ,
ZIM3ABVJE .
BUTTERFLY RESEARCH
Would any mem.ber of the East Africa Natural History Society be interested in helping a research team in England to breed Swallowtail butterflies?
The team is led by Professor Sir Cyril Clarke F.R.S. and the main breeding unit is at the Nuffield Department of Medical Genetics, University of Liverpool .
At the moment we are investigating the inheritance of wing patterns in species crosses and the species we are interested in are Papilio dardanus and P. phorcas.
For the last four years I have been visiting Nairobi and working in the Department of Animal Physiology by kind consent of Professor Maloiy. My purpose is to catch females of the two species, set them up to lay and then take the eggs and larvae back to England v/here we can raise broods. Our greatest problem is feeding the larvae as they eat Teclea, which we cannot successfully grow in Eiigland. Would anyone be virilling to post us packets of Teclea leaves regularly, say once a week, 1st. Class Air Mail Letter Post? We xTOuld, of course, pay the postage.
Perhaps anyone interested in our project would write to:
Sir C.A. Clarke F.R.S. , Nuffield Dept, of Medical Genetics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, England.
We would be delighted if anybody would like to try breeding these butter- flies in Kenya. I might stress that it is the enthusiastic amateur who is our greatest help. Sir Cyril x-zill send all details of what is involved.
VJe have one or two Kenyan butterfly catchers who can recognise and catch the butterflies we want but nobody who can spare the time trying to breed from the females they catch. If you have a Teclea tree in your garden you should have no problem.
Alison Gill (Mrs), (Research assistant to Sir C.A. Clarke) c/o Dept, of Animal Physiology, Box 30197, Nairobi.
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SOCIETY EXCURSION TO OLOLUA, NAIROBI
Despite' heavy rain in other parts of Nairobi, about 35 members arrived at the Ololua Ridge home of Val and Dave Richards on May 8 to find an overcast but dry day. The morning’s activities consisted of a long walk, led by DKR, through areas of the Ololua Forest, Xi?ith much of interest to both birdwatchers and botanists; birds of note included a fine adult Great Sparro\7hawk (all names as in Britton’s Birds of East Africa 1980), and good close views of a pair of Black-collared Apalises. After this, although many had brought their own, lunch, the needy and greedy and indeed anyone who felt like it were provided with a superb lunch by Val Richards, which was an unexpected and distinctly friendly gesture.
After this pile of food, a great show was made of having enough energy to get across the Richards’ front garden to examine the apparently peaceful field in front of their house, but those who fondly anticipated a leisurely after-lunch amble soon had their composure discomfited by the ferocious attacks of a pair of Black-winged Plovers which, with a brood of chicks fleeing through the grass som.e way off, were intent on either luring us away with broken wing displays, or driving us off via apparently kamikaze sorties at our heads and two elderly dogs, who had accompanied us, only deviating from their targets at the very last appalling second. Ducking to avoid these onslaughts did wonders for the after-lunch digestion, but we neverthe- less continued across the field to flush a roosting Montane Nightjar from an eucalyptus grove where this species nests.
The day was rounded off with another 2| hour walk, in blazing sunshine, through the forest and adjacent areas. Few birds of note except a female Brown-backed VJoodpecker and a Yellow-whiskered Greenbul were seen, but the White-starred Forest Robin and, our only notable mammal of the day, Sykes Monkey Cercopithecus mitis were heard. The day ended at 5.30 p.m. vzith yet more refreshments chez Richards, together with good views of an African Goshawk, and of the placid Ngong Hills.
Over 8 hours after we had arrived, we left v/ith a bird list of 85 species, and with grateful thanks to Val and Dave for an excellent day.
REFERENCE ;
Britton, P.L. (ed.). i980. Birds of East Africa their habits, status and distribution. Nairobi; EANHS .
Adrian D. Lewis, Geology, Box 30197, Nairobi.
PAGINATION OF THE BULLETIN
Members will have noticed that the gremlins were at work during the production of the Jan - April issue and page 22 appeared as page two. Therefore, this issue is numbered from page 23 although the last Bulletin apparently finished on page 2i. Apologies for this error.
Ed.
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FOR SALE
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A******:^* jfc ************ A** **51t5’«*5'{**A**
SPECIAL OFFER TO SOCIETY MEMBERS
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The Ornithological Sub-Corriinittee , with the kind permission of the artist, offer for sale an original Rena Fennessy watercolour, depicting three migratory birds (Irania, Sprosser and River Warbler) occurring at Ngulia Safari Lodge, and as shown in Birds of East Africa opposite page 146.
Shs. 10 000/- or nearest offer. Enquiries to either,”
Dr D.J. Pearson, Biochemistry, Box 30197, Nairobi.
Tel. 47041
D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi. Tel. 48772
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Toyota Land Cruiser Station Wagon 1976. Roof Rack, F.W. Hubs, Jerrycan holder. Camping Refrigerator. Shs. 75000/- or nearest offer.
H. Patel, Box 48834, Nairobi. Telephone 338429,
WANTED
By Nairobi School Junior Members (c/o P.J. Johnston. Tel. 48495, evenings)
1. Mini-Moke, used but reliable.
2. Copies of ’old’ Williams Birds of East and Central Africa.
3. Copies of ’old’ Williams Field Guide to the National Parks of E. Africa.
4. Second-hand binoculars.
UPLAND KENYA WILD FLOWERS by A.D.Q. Agnew. Wanted by Mrs I.F. La Croix of Malawi. Replies c/o the Hon. Secretary, EANHS please, with price. Replies will be forwarded to Mrs La Croix.
Mrs J.F. Carnegie of Eserian Farm, Private Bag, Nyeri offers members in need of a change from Nairobi, a house which is fully furnished consisting of two double rooms, electric light, gas stove and milk supplied from the farm.
56 km from Nyeri on the B5 to Nyahururu, turn right opposite the Ngobit Estate signboard and go I5 km down good murram road to the houses. Only charge is for the gas used and for staff to clean up before and after - about Sh.lOO/- for two nights. There is no telephone, enquiries by post.
45
SOCIETY FUNCTIONS
SUNDAY !2th Junes 1983; Mr and Mrs A. Spinks will lead a half or full day trip from their house at Garden Estates Nairobi for birdwatchings botanisings etc. Please bring lunch if you want to stay all days be prepared for
some walking. Please meet at the National Museum, at 9 a.m. sharp.
MONDAY 13th June, 1983; in the Museum Kail at 5.30 p.m. Dr J.P. Darlington will give an illustrated lecture on “'THE ECOLOGY OF MA.CROTERMES spp. IN SEMI- ARID GPJ^SSLi\ND*' .
M0NDA.Y 11th July, 1982; in the Museum Hall at 5,30 p.m. Dr James J. Hebrard of the University of Nairobi, Zoology Department will give an illustrated lecture on "DISTRIBUTION AMD ECOLOGY OF CHAJIAELECMID LIZAJIDS IN KENYA".
FRIDAY /SATU'lDx\Y/ SUNDAY 15 - 17th July, 1983. VJeekend excursion to Bushwhackers (25 km from Kibwezi on the Athi River). Camping Sh, 7/50 per person per day. Accommodation in bandas Sh. 35/- per person per day. Security is much improved Bushwhackers Safari Camp has been taken over by Mr Mbindu, who is keen to continue to run the camp for guests, and is improving facilities. For camping all equipment will have to be brought. Accommodation in bandas include beds, mattresses, pots and pans, crockery, .electric light and cooking stoves. Gas is 10/- per banda. If you would like to take part in this trip to a beautiful spot on the Athi River, please write to Mrs A.L. Campbell, Box 14469, Nairobi stating accommodation wanted for number of people for number of nights including full pa5rment for accommodation in bandas to secure bookings. Please book early.
MONDAY 15th August, 1983; in the Museum Hall at 5.30 p.m. Dr M.E. Smalley of the University of Nairobi, Zoology Department will give an illustrated lecture on "MiALARIA - THE PARASITE; ITS DISCOVERY THE FIGHT AGAINST IT".
SUNDAY 2Sth August, 1983; Weekend or day outing to he arranged.
3rd “ 7th September, 1983; TSAVO WALKING TOUR. Please see last issue for details, contact Mrs Campbell if you want to take part.
MONDAY 12th Septem.ber, 1933; in the Museum, Hall at 5, 3D p.m. Our Chairman, Prfessor John Kokwaro will give an illustrated lecture on" ORNAMENTAL PLi\NTS OF F^NYA".
20th - 22nd October, 1983; Meru Mt. Kenya Self Service Lodge at 3000m above Chogoria Forest Station has been reserved for the Society. This is a most beautiful spot with plenty of opportunity for walking on the moorland. The lodge is very comfortable, with everything provided - except food. The approach road is due to be raurramed before October, when it will be passable for saloon cars of reasonable power. Bookings through Mrs Cam.pbell during xAugust.
WDNESDAY MORNING BIRD WALKS: led by Mrs Fleur N’gweno continue. Fl(33.se mee.t
at the National Museum at 8.45 a.m, sharp.
NOTICE TO ANYONE IMTERE.STED IN BIRDS:
are you a birdwatcher/photographer /ringer newly arrived in Kenya, and in search of details of local birds, good areas to visit, relevant literature and ringing and other research schemes? Contact ^Adrian D. Lewis (Geology) Box 30197, Nairobi for information.
THE BULLETIN
Members who have sent articles or notes to the Bulletin which have not yet appeared, arc requested to re-submit their contributions as it seems that some may have been mislaid. Meanwhile fresh contributions are earnestly solicited.
46
THE EAST AFRICA NATURAL HISTORY SQClEfY '
^ 7 '
V •
Chairman: J.S. Karmali Vice-Chairman: Prof. J.O. Kokwaro
Joint Editors, Jl E. Africa nat. Hist. Soc. Nat. Mus., M.E.J. Gore f^iss S. Karmali ' •;
Secretary /Treasurer: Miss D. Angwin Asst. Secretary /Treasurer: Mrs. E.B. Angwin Hon. Librarian; Mrs. C. Taylor
Executive Committee : (in addition to the abpvej: G.C. Backhurst (Ringing Organizer), Mrs.
N. arap Chumo, M.P. Clifton (Editor EANHS Bulletin), Mrs. J. Hayes, Dr. A.D. Lewis, D.A. Turner Co-opted Members: P.B. Taylor (Nest Record Scheme Organizer), Mrs. F. Ng'weno, S. Njuguna,
Dr. D. Pearson, D.K. Richards, Mrs. P. Wocrtton, P. Davey Journal Editorial Sub-Committee : M.E.J. Gore, Miss Karmali
Ornithological Sub-Oimmittee: Dr. D.J, Pearson, G.C. Backhurst, D.A. Turner, Dr. A.D. Lewis, B.S. Meadows, Prof. D.E. Pomeroy, D.K. Richards, T. Stevenson, P.B. Taylor, Dr. K. Howell, J. Beesiey, N. Baker (Tanzania), Dr. M. Cartweil (Uganda), J.F. Reynolds, P.L. Britton (United Kingdom)
Joint Library Sub-Committee : (Society representatives) Mrs. C. Taylor, M.P. Clifton.
This offers you free entry to the National Museum, Nairobi; free lectures, films, slide shows or discussions every month in Nairobi; field trips and camps led by experienced guides; free use of the Joint Society- National Museum Library (postal borrowing is also possible); reciprocal arrangements with the Uganda Society's Library in the Uganda Museum, Kampala; family participation: wives and children of members may attend most Society functions; one copy of the EANHS Bulletin every two months; a copy of each Journal published during your period of membership; the Society controls the ringing of birds in East Africa and welcomes new ringers and runs an active Nest Record Scheme; activities such as plant mapping and game counting are undertaken on a group basis. Membership rates are given at the foot of this page.
issue consists usually of one paper, however, sometimes two or more short papers may be combined to form one number. The aim of this method of presentation is to ensure prompt publication of scientific information; a title page is issued at the end of each year so that the year's papers may be bound together. Contributions, which should be typed in double spacing on one side of the paper, with wide margins, should be sent to the Secretary, Box 44486, Nairobi, Kenya. Authors receive twenty-five reprints of their article free, provided that these are ordered at the time the proofs are returned.
This is a duplicated magazine issued six times a year, which exists for the rapid publication of short notes, articles, letters and reviews. Contributions, which may be written in clear handwriting or typed, should be sent to The Editor (EANHS^Bulletin), Box 44486, Nairobi, Kenya. Line drawing will be considered if they add to the value of the article. Photographs cannot be published.
SCOPUS
The Ornithological Sub Committee publishes this quartely bird magazine. Cost: EANHS members KShs. 75/= p.a. All correspondence to D.A. Turner, Box 48019, Nairobi, Kenya.
Subscriptions are due 1st January. From 1st July you may join for KShs. 35/= and receive publications from that date. Application forms for membership are obtainable from the Secretary, Box 44486, Nairobi.
MEMBERSHIP
JOURNAL
The Society publishes The Journal of the East Africa Natural History Society and National Museum. Each
E.A.N.H.S. BULLETIN
MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTION RATES
3
Life
Institutional (schools, libraries)
Full Local and overseas
Junior (full-time student, no
One payment: KShs. 750/= annual payment: KShs. 70/= annual payment: KShs. 70/=
Journal supplied)
annual payment: KShs. 10/=
nv. .
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