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NOILNLILSNI NVINOSHLINS S3!1YVvVudlT wn z (ap) z 2) < a Ri nt ay 1 GRE M%. n 2) _ on n - fe) rT MWS Oo a fe) 2 z = S\N Zz, = =! = a Se nes 3 5 NVINOSHLIWNS S3I1YVYEIT LIBRARIES SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION ae " = a Zz u 2 : a = Yu," o ar = ee big a < = x _< fe < G pers : 4 “Ss ce = a, frit ioa = — faa) os mo” = fe SN een 2 = 2 oF F BRARIES SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION NOILNLILSNI NVWINOSHLINS S3!14YVUEIT z = rm = : re) oa ro) = “Se re) —_— 38 | —_— s jn C 3 2 = 22 5 : - = - as os : : ” in wo rm ” f z [ép) z rep) a = C OILNALILSN!I NVINOSHLINS S314YVYdEIT LIBRARIES SMITHSONIAN Zz 2) z we Y = ¢ se 2 fo) aoe. oS < : 5 2 ‘EON? 5 | - g Bee : : SY ae ea 2, : AY hr Ait | Ph ay ‘ yan: bel | Ay oe i A eT Oren ; j he Emu, A Quarterly Magazine to popularize the Study and Protection of Native Birds. .s-— @- OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION. A. J. CAMPBELL, Col. Mem. B.O.U. Edit | rors) CHARLES BARRETT. VOL. ik L410. OL... IX/;1969410 22254 | AHelBourne : WALKER, MAY & CO., PRINTERS, 25 MACKILLOP STREET. LONDON AGENT : R. H. PORTER, 7 Princes STREET, CAVENDISH SQUARE, W. IQIo. CONTENTS OF VOL. IX.—1g09- 10. Aboriginal Names, 31. Acanthiza, Description of a New, 137. Acanthiza, New, for Australia, 173. Albatross Island, On, 155. Albatrosses and other Pelagic Birds in Australian Waters, Notes on, 47. Amytis macrura Re-discovered, 163. Animals Preservation Society, 44. Australasian Ornithologists’ Union — Adelaide Session, 109; Financial Statement, 1143 President’s Address, 120; Excursion to Eyre Peninsula, 123. Australian’s Promotion, An, 91. Australian Aviary, An, 33. ‘© Authorities,” The Citing of, 99. Bass Strait Expedition, 108. Bell Miner, The (A/anorhina melan- ophrys), 234. Bird Day, 169. Bird Day in the Commonwealth, First, 157. Bird- Migration, 99. Bird-Nests, Edible, 160. Bird Notes from Cleveland, Tasmania, 79> 95, 251. Bird Notes from the Upper Goulburn, 255. Bird Sanctuaries, 120. Bird Traffic in New Guinea, Restriction of, 51. Birds about Drouin, Gippsland, 241. Birds Observed at Interlaken, Tasmania, 13th and 14th November, 254 Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla Wea. 72 Bird Observers’ Club, 265. Birds of Eyre Peninsula, S.A., 123. Birds of North-West Australia, 1, 53. “< Birds-of-Paradise, A Journey to British New Guinea in Search of,” rot. Birds of the Alexandra District, Northern Territory, The, 65. Birds of Yackandandah Creek Valley, 24. Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, Western Australia, $4. Seen in and around Broome, North-Western Australia, 148. Black-tailed Godwit, 28. Blue Wren of Tasmania, The, 151. Blue Wrens Nesting in Ivy, 34. Bower-Bird (Ptzlonorhynchus violaceus), Notes on the Satin, 236. Bower-Bird, Tooth-billed, 247. Birds Buckland, Mr. Jas., Exhibition of Lantern Slides, 50. Can Birds Retain their Eggs? 162. Census, An Interesting, 31. Certificate, A. 266. Charlotte Plains Bird Notes, 167. Cleveland (Tas.) Notes, 251. Coachwhip-Bird (Psophodes crepitans), The, 248. Collecting, The New, 179. Collection, A National, 179. Colour Chart, A Natural Standard, 48, 106, 177. Coloured Figure Fund, 107. Combat, A Curious, 166. Correspondence, 48, 106, 176, 260. Cuckoo Day, A, 163. Cuckoo Notes, 245. Cuckoo, The Shining, 174. Curlews Migrating, 28. Description of two New Nests and Eggs, 136. Descriptive List of Victoria, A, 47. Devonport (Tas.) Notes, 171. Dottrel, Double-banded, 248. Ducks, Notes on, 77. East Murchison, On the, 181. Egg, New, for Victoria, 164. Emu, Fidelity of the, 164. Eopsaltria jacksont, Remarks on, 246. Erratum, 179. Examination of Contents of Stomachs and Crops of some Australian Birds, 219. Experiment, A Novel, 246. Fairy Martin (Petrochelidon ariel), 92. Falcon and Bat, 29. Feathers and Frost, 245. Fly-eater, The White-throated, 247. Forgotten Feathers, 98. Foxes v. Birds, 93. Generic Names Applied to Birds during the Years 1901 to 1905, inclusive, History Birds Native to 44. German Owls into New Zealand, Intro- ducing, 173. ‘¢ Handlist of the Birds of Australasia,” Additions to the, 92. Heron (Ardea sumatrana), Notes on the Great-billed, 138. Honey-eater, Helmeted (P¢2/otis cassidix), as Foster-parent to the Pallid Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus), 168. iv Contents of Vol. List of Birds, A New, 18o. Lyre-Bird, Extinction of the, 45. Magazines, &c., From, 44, 98, 173, 256. Magpie Defamed, The, 246. Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota), Notes on the, 16. Mallee, In the, 227. March of Civilization, The, 165. Maryborough (Vic.) Notes, 166. Migrant, A Wonderful, 256. Migration Queries, 94. Minutes of the B.O.C., 267. Mutton-Birds in the North Pacific, Flight of Australian, 98. Native-Hen (Microtribonyx ventralis), Notes on the Black-tailed, 95. Night-Birds in Combat, 33. Night-Heron Rookery, Visit to a, 170. Ninox ocellata, Eggs of, 107. Ninth Island, Bass Strait, A Trip to, 141. Nomenclature, 179. Notes and Notices, 50, 107, 179, 265. Obituary Notices—Dr. R. B. Sharpe, 178, 262. Oologist’s Paradise, An, 39. Ornithological Congress, Fifth Inter- national, 265. Ornithology, Popularizing, 50. Owls Retaining their Prey, 29. Pardalotus, The Genus, 22. Parry’s Creek, North-West Australia, List of Birds Observed on, 238. Penguin Astray, 92. Penguin Fishes, How the, 252. Penguin, Occurrence of the King, in Tasmania, 250. Petrels off the New South Wales Coast, ce Petrophassa rufipennis (Rock- Pigeon), 98. Pilot-Bird (Pycnoptzlus floccosus), The, 41. Pinguin, Derivation of the Word, 176. Price of a Plume, The, 179. Protection and Priority, 260. Protection of Grass-Parrakeets, 180. Psephotus dissimils, Note on Some Living Examples of, 46. Pseudogerygone from South-east Queens- land, Description of a New, 26. Publications Received, 267. IX .—1909-10. Queensland Notes, Some, 35. Return of the Birds, The, 29. Reviews — ‘‘ A Monograph of the Petrels (Order Tubinares),” 103 ; ‘* A “Bush Calendar,” 174°; ‘* Special Catalogue, No. 1, Australian Museum, Sydney,” 175; ‘‘The Home Life of the Golden Eagle,” 259; ‘‘ Egyptian Birds,” 259. Robber, A, 162. Robin, An Abnormal, 30. Robin, Flame-breasted, 29, 247. Robin, Flame-breasted, New Nesting Locality for, 249. Rock-Parrakeet (MVeophema pelrophila), Notes on the, 133. Sanctuary, A Suburban, 21. Seth-Smith, Mr. David, Visit to Aus- tralia, 98. Sharpe, Death of Dr. Richard Bowdler, 178, 262. Shrike-Robin, Description of a New, 70. South Australian Ornithological Associa- tion, 49. Stoats and Weasels, Prohibited, 51. Stray Feathers, 28, 92,.162, 245. Tasmanian Birds, A Handbook of, 50. Tasmanian Field . Naturalists’ Club’s Easter Camp-Out, 1909, 44. Thickhead, Description of the Nest and Eggs of the White-bellied, 106. Tit, The Brown (Acanthiza pusilla), as a Mimic, 248. Tree-creeper, Red-browed, at Olinda, 28, 94. Variation in Trichoglossus, 83. Warty-faced Honey-eaters and Friar- Birds, 93. Wattle-Birds, Full Clutches of, 245. West Devonport (Tas.) Notes, 37. Western Australian Birds, 165. White-eye, A Tribute to the, 163. White Oological Collection, The, 90. Wood-Swallows as Honey-eaters, 32, 93. Wood-Swallows Clustering, 30. Wrens, Moulting of Blue gouldi), 249. Importation of, (Malurus /liustrations in Vol. IX.—1g909-10. Vv [EE GSERATIONS: (LN a VOERI Feeding Ground of the Laughing Jackass (Dacelo gigas), Cat-Bird (4luredus viridis) and Noisy Pitta (Pztta strepitans), Coolabunia pine scrubs, near Kingaroy, Queensland, June, 1908 __... aie plate i Blue Wrens (Malurus cyaneus), male and female, near entrance of nest . plate ii Lopsaltria jacksont Bae : as (baba plate iii Series of Regent-Birds’ (Sericulus eee) Baggs in the collection of Mr. H. L. White oe sf plate iv Series of Ospreys’ (Pandion lecocepha) Bags in thie eoltection of Mr. H. L. White ace = Abe plate v Nests of Colony of Fairy Martins (Petrochelidon anei\. vais ie plate vi Nest and Eggs of White-bellied Thickhead (Pachycephala lanioides) _... __ plate vii Mr. D. Le Souéf, C.M.Z.S., Director of the Zoological Gardens, Mel- bourne (Fourth President of the Australasian Ornithologists’ Union) plate viii Master Alfred H. E. White (youngest member of the A.O.U.), showing Nest of Crow (Corvus coronoides) containing 6 eggs ear sf plate ix A.O.U. Camp, Warunda, Eyre Peninsula, S.A. ee ae plate x Scrub-Robin (Drymaedus brunneopygius), Nest, and Y Cune:: Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus) oat plate xi Nest of Rock-Parrakeet (Veophema petrophila), uncovered) Islet in Kellidie Bay—Home of the Rock-Parrakeet ... : plates xi Nest of Spur-winged Plover (Lodivanellus lobatus) ... nb oe) plate aa Nest and Young of Great-billed Heron (Ardea sumatrana) ... h\-708 (plate xiv Alfred Honey-eater (Lacustrotca white?) ... ses (coloured) plate xv Nest of Dottrel (Pe/tohyas australis) ase nd £6 eee plate xvi Nest of Black-vented Ground-Bird (C7zzclosoma marginatum) ... ... plate xvii Nest of the Whitlock Tit (Acanthiza whitlocki) ane ... plate xviii Nest of Chestnut-rumped Tit (Acanthiza uropygialis) in pipe of fue ... plate xix Nest of Large-tailed Grass- Wren (A mytornis gigantura) ‘on eeEplate ack Nest of Striated Grass-Wren (Amytornis striatus)... i = platelet Nest of Pied Honey-eater (Certhionyx variagatus) ... a: eon plate ncni Play-ground of Yellow-spotted Bower-Bird (Chlamydodera guttata) ... plate xxiii Clump of Scrub where the Bower-Birds built, Milly Pool bde ... plate xxiv Nesting-tree of Yellow-spotted Bower-Bird (Chlamydodera guttata) ... plate xxv Nest and Eggs of Yellow-spotted Bower-Bird (Chlamydodera guitata) ... plate xxvi By Scene ANE eb cat ea a x hie Nee Vol. IX.] JULY, 1909. A Quarterly Magazine to popularize the Study and Protection ; of Native Birds. 2 @ @<- OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION. A. J. CAMPBELL, Col. Mem. B.0.U. SCOTT MORRISON. Welbourtne : WALKER, MAY & CO., PRINTERS, 25 MACKILLOP STREET, LONDON AGENT: R. H. PORTER, 7 Princes SrrEET, CAVENDISH SQUARE, W. Editors \ f a : ae RS *Henal Muse’ iy CONTENTS4) eee vet oO, (The author of each article is responsible for the facts recorded therein, and any deductions he may draw.) ON THE BirkDS OF NORTH-WEST AUSTRALIA. By Gregory M. Mathews, F.L.S., F-Z.S.,'M.B.0,U... - - - : - - NOTES ON THE MAGPIE (GYMNORHINA LEUCONOTA, GLD.) Sy Robert Hall, C.M.Z.S., Col. Mem. B.C.U. - : - - - THE GENUS PARDALOTUS. By A. G. Campbell, Pomonal, Victoria BIRDS OF YACKANDANDAH CREEK VALLEY, BETWEEN YACKAN- DANDAH AND KIEWA, VICTORIA. By H. W. Ford, F.G.S. - DESCRIPTION OF A NEW PSEUDOGERYGONE FROM SOUTH-EAST QUEENSLAND. Ay W. E. Weatherill, Queensland Museum, Brisbane - - - - - - - - : - . STRAY FEATHERS.—Black-tailed Godwit, 28; Curlews Migrating, 28; Red-browed Tree-creeper at Olinda, 28; The Return of the Birds, 29; Flame-breasted Robin, 29; Falcon and Bat, 29; Owls Retaining their Prey, 29 ; Wood-Swallows Cluster- ing, 30; An Abnormal Robin,. 30; An Interesting Census, 31; Aboriginal Names, 31; Wood-Swallows as Honey-eaters, 32; An Australian Aviary, 33; Night-Birds in Combat, 33; Blue’Wrens Nesting in Ivy, 34; Some Queensland Notes, 35; West Devonport (Tas.) Notes, 37; An Oologist’s Paradise, 39; The Pilot-Bird, 41. FROM MAGAZINES, &C.—‘‘Generic Names Applied to Birds During the Years rgor to 1905, inclusive, with Further Additions to Waterhouse’s ‘ Index Generum Avium,’” 443 Tasmanian Field Naturalistst Club’s Easter Camp-Out, 1909, 445 Animals Preservation Society, 44; Extinction of the Lyre-Bird, 45; ‘‘ Note ou Some Living Examples of Psephotus dissimilis,” 46; ‘‘ Notes on Albatrosses and other Pelagic Birds in Australian Waters,’”’ 46; A Descriptive List ‘of Birds Native to Victoria,” 47. CORRESPONDENCE : 3 3 2 i: : zt SOUTH AUSTRALIAN ORNITHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION NOTES AND NOTICES . = : : = : e EC < AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION NEXT ANNUAL (1909) CONGRESS - - - oe se E : 3 é i . ES ANNOUNCEMENTS. Articles (technical papers should if possible be type-written) and communications intended for publication, also books and publications for notice, should be addressed to the Editors, Zhe Emu, c/o MR. A. J. CAMPBELL, Custom-House, Melbourne. MSS. of general articles should reach the editors at least six weeks prior to the issue of the number for which they are intended. Occasionally, when funds permit, it is intended to issue Coloured Plates of hitherto unfigured Australian Birds. ~Voluntary subscriptions to a “COLOURED FIGURE FUND” are courteously invited from members. The price of The Emu to non-members is 4/- per copy. Extra copies may be had by members at half-price. 5 vo ite = ‘ 7 © Vol. 1X. EMU, THE PLATE ad "AANGAS ‘NOSHOV?P ‘M *S AG “OLOHd VY WOYS ‘ydersojoyd jo 4yJo[ Ul 9u0}s uO spirq osoy} Aq usayorq oie s[fayS ‘“Yoea ssOr1OR s9yoUL cf I9AO aINseI (tmpysuruuns XUaFT) S[JeYys [reUsS ay 2061 ‘aunf ‘purjsusen() ‘ysnoroqAreyy, JO ysaM-YyNOsS ‘Aoresury eau ‘sqnsos eutd erunqe[oo) suvyrdarjs Vit) CIM ASION pue ‘(srp1s20 snpaanpsE) prrg-FeO ‘(sV525 oja2vq) sseyoef Sulysne’yT oy} JO puNory sulpse, os She Emu Official Organ of the Australasian Ornithologists’ Anion, “Birds of a feather.” Vor, TX;| lari sy) ULY,,; 1909. FPARTE On the Birds of North-West Australia.* BY GREGORY M: “MATHEWS; F:L:S:) F.Z.S., M.B:iO.U: With Field Notes by the Collector, J. P. ROGERS. PART I.—BIRDS FROM WYNDHAM. IN June, 1908, I arranged with Mr. J. P. Rogers to collect bird- skins for me in North-West Australia, that part of the country being well known to him. He reached Wyndham on Ist August, and pitched his camp about 25 miles from there, on Parry’s Creek. He writes:—“ My camp is 5 miles west of Trig. Station H.J. 9, which is marked on the Lands and Survey Department Lith. No. 142, which accompanies this. It is on the edge of a large plain which stretches into Wyndham. This plain turns into a salt-marsh about 9 miles from Wyndham, at a place known as the Nine-mile Ridge. Between my camp and this ridge the plain is flooded in the wet season, and forms a great breeding-ground for many species of waterfowl.- In the other direction, up Parry’s Creek, there is plenty of scrub along the creek, and also plenty of fairly large timber. At a short distance from the camp there are two rough ranges of hills, and at the bottom of these hills to the south-west there is a high plateau that is always dry, even in the wet season. I think that the locality should give good results, as there are all descriptions of country within a short distance of my camp. “Tn this district very few birds use feathers for lining their nests; Zenzopygia castanotis alone seems to do so.” So far I have received three hundred and thirty skins of seventy-one species. SYNCECUS SORDIDUS (Sombre Brown Quail). Mathews, Handl. B. Austr., No. 12. Two adult males and two females. Parry’s Creek, 29/9/08, 10/10/08. *Mr. Mathews proposes to continue observations on the North-Western birds on the excellent lines laid down by Mr. Robert Hall, C.M.Z.S., &c. Vide Emu, i., p. 87; ii., p. 493; and vii., p. 138. In the technical names Mr. Mathews follows his ‘* Handlist” (vide Suppl., Amz, vii.), while the vernacular names are according to the list of Australian birds adopted by the Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science (1898). The latter list is mainly followed by the A.O.U., pending the adoption of an authorized Australian ‘* Check-List.”’—Eps, 2 MAaAtHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. Ee Eyes dark red; feet and tarsi yellow ; bill brown, base of lower mandible leaden-grey. The stomach contained fragments of seeds of annual plants, but no grass seeds, So far not common. GEOPELIA HUMERALIS (Barred-shouldered Dove). Math., Handl. B. of Austr., No. 33. Adult male and female. Parry’s Creek, 7/9/08. Iris pale yellow, bare skin round the eye dull purple ; feet pink-red, darker than tarsi; bill dull yellow. Very common. Early in the morning I have frequently seen 20 to 30 perched in a dead tree near my camp. GEOPELIA CUNEATA (Little Dove). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 35. Two females. Parry’s Creek, October, 1908. Iris light red, with bare skin round the eye red; feet white, tarsi fleshy-white ; bill brown. The stomach and crop contained a quantity of small, round seeds. On the night of 21st August, about 9 o'clock, I flushed this bird from the grass. I saw by the light which I was carrying that it belonged to this species. Again, on 29th September, at very early dawn, I flushed another example from the ground, where it had apparently roosted all night. There were several trees close by. PHAPS CHALCOPTERA (Bronze-wing). Math.,, Handl. B. Austr., No. 37. Adult male and female. Parry’s Creek, 20/9/08. Eyes dark brown; feet and tarsi pinky-red ; bill brownish- black. The stomach contained seeds of the acacia and other seeds. HISTRIOPHAPS HISTRIONICA (Flock- Pigeon). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 39. Two adult males and one female. Parry’s Creek, 5/10/08. Eyes dark brown; feet and tarsi leaden-blue; back of tarsus fleshy-brown ; bill brown. The stomach contained seeds of the pea-bush, native rice, and a quantity of other larger seeds. LOPHOPHAPS PLUMIFERA (Plumed-Pigeon). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 45. Adult male and four females. Parry’s Creek, 24/8/08, 5/11/08. Iris yellow; bare skin before and behind the eye bright red ; feet and legs brown; bill brown, with pale brown tip. "Vol. 1X. 1909 MATHEWws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 3 These birds are common in rough, stony country, and only leave it to go to water. They spend the hotter hours under a shady tree near water, and drink many times during the day. The stomach contained small, round seeds. Their colouring is a great protection. At aspring in the hills, I mile west of Dellan Spring, 40 miles inland from here, there is a large, red, smooth stone, rising from the water’s edge at an angle of about 50 degrees and reaching to a height of 60 feet. There are a few small cracks and little knobs scattered over the smooth surface of the rock, but absolutely no cover of any kind. On the 13th September I watched about 50 of these Pigeons ; some were drinking and some perched on the little knobs or running about the face of the rock, where they could easily be seen. Then a Falco /unulatus (Little Falcon) came over the top of the rock and made a swoop at the birds, when every one of them lay flat on the rock. It was fully a minute before I could see them, and then only three or four. I had to wait two or three minutes before the rest moved, and they could not be seen till they moved. No day is too hot for them. If undisturbed they will stand motionless on a stone when one can feel the ground hot even through thick boots. Usually if the distance be short they run to water, but if the distance be too great they run a little and then fly about 150 yards, then run again, and so on. PODICIPES NOV4-HOLLANDIZ& (Black-throated Grebe). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 65. Adult male. Parry’s Creek, 12/8/08. Iris pale yellow; feet and legs olive-brown, soles of feet brownish ; bill—upper mandible brown, lower mandible grey ; corner of mouth pale greenish-yellow. Common in the wet season, December to March. During the rest of the year it is rare, although found on the large waterholes. HIMANTOPUS LEUCOCEPHALUS (White-headed Stilt). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 161. Adult male. Parry’s Creek, 1/10/08. Eyes red ; feet and legs pinky-red ; bill black. The stomach contained a quantity of small shell-fish, which were swallowed whole, and some beetles in fragments. LIMOSA LIMOSA* (Black-tailed Godwit). Math. Handl. B. Austr., No. 168. Male. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris brown; feet and tarsi olive-brown ; bill—distal half brown, shading to pale brown at base of upper mandible, and greyish-white at base of lower mandible. * See remarks, p. 28. A MatTHews, On the Birds of North-West Australia. Pas The stomach contained hard, round seeds of two different sorts. PISOBIA RUFICOLLIS (Little Stint). Math. Handl. B. Austr., No. 179. Two males. Parry’s Creek, October, 1908. Iris brown ; feet and tarsi black ; bill black. One stomach contained some grit and a few insects ; the other three large, hard seeds and a quantity of some animal matter which was unrecognizable. Seen in small flocks of 10 to 12 at Roebuck Bay in May, June, and July. Some of these birds were in partly rufous plumage. The breast of one was very rufous. HETEROPYGIA AURITA (Sharp-tailed Stint). Math., Handl, B. Austr., No. 181. Two adult females. Parry’s Creek, 26/9/08. Eyes blackish-brown ; feet and tarsi olive-yellow ; bill brown, base of lower mandible grey. The stomach contained a few small fresh-water shell-fish and some grit. NYCTICORAX CALEDONICUS (Night-Heron). Math., Handl. B. of Austr., No. 210. Immature female. Parry’s Creek, 9/9/08. Iris yellow ; orbital region olive-yellow ; feet and legs olive- green; culmen and cutting edges brown, remainder of bill olive-green. Common in the dense scrub along the creeks. The im- mature birds were seen fishing at 10 a.m. on 30th August, the day being hot and calm. On 24th September several were seen fishing about here. They were perched on some rocks at the water’s edge. When a fish rose to the surface, sometimes 10 feet away from them, in deep water, one would fly out and alight on the water, snapping at the fish. The wings were kept raised, and the bird only stayed a second or two on the water and then flew back to the rocks. Two fish were caught in this manner while I watched. On 6th October, 1908, an adult was seen drinking at 10 a.m. It drank very slowly, taking a sip at about one-minute intervals. The day was warm. ; DUPETOR GOULDI (Yellow-necked Mangrove-Bittern). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 214. ‘Immature? Parry’s Creek, 10/9/08. Iris light yellow; feet olive-brown ; bill and naked skin round eye brown ; genys greyish-white. er ] MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. nr ASTUR NOV#-HOLLANDI& (White Goshawk). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 256. Adult male. Parry’s Creek, 8/10/08. ; Eyes orange-red ; feet and tarsi yellow ; bill black, cere and corner of mouth yellow. Stomach contained remains of a small fresh-water crab. This bird looks like a Cockatoo when flying, and does not throw the other birds into confusion like other Hawks. CERCHNEIS CENCHROIDES (Kestrel). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 280. Adult male. Parry’s Creek, 24/8/08. Iris brown, eyelid yellow; feet and legs yellow ; bill—tip black, base of upper and lower mandibles yellowish-grey, cere pale yellow. Several seen between 20 miles and g miles of Wyndham, on the big plain.. These birds were last seen here on 24th August, when the above specimen was shot. NINOX OCCIDENTALIS (Western Winking-Owl). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 289. Two adult males and three females. Parry’s Creek, 9/10/08. Eyes yellow ; feet yellow ; bill and cere yellowish-brown, tip and cutting edges brown. The stomach contained several grasshoppers and a great many cockchafer-beetles and insects, which were swallowed whole. Usually spend the day in a patch of thick foliage, and often call during the day, but not so loudly as at night. TRICHOGLOSSUS RUBRITORQUES (Red-collared Lorikeet). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 303. Five males, three females, and one of doubtful sex. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris red, with inner ring of brown; feet and tarsi olive- brown ; bill red. ~The stomach contained fragments of the centres of flowers and stamens of flowers, beetles, and seeds, and gullets of some contained honey. PTILOSCLERA VERSICOLOR (Varied Lorikeet). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 306. One male and two females. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris—male, yellow, skin round eye creamy-white; female, brown, skin round eye creamy-white ; feet leaden-blue ; bill pale red, with tip and cutting edge of mandibles brown ; cere creamy- white. The stomach contained fragments of flowers and gullet was full of honey ; honey ran out of the mouth of one female when shot. 6 MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. Bae PTISTES ERYTHROPTERUS (Red-winged Lory). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 331. Male. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris with outer ring of pale red anda inner ring of dark brown ; feet and tarsi black ; bill red, with tip and cere "yellowish- red. The stomach contained seeds and pulp of fruit. EURYSTOMUS PACIFICUS (Dollar-Bird),. Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 381. Two adult males and one female. Parry’s Creek, 12/10/08. Eyes dark brown ; feet and tarsi red ; bill red, tip of upper mandible black. The stomach contained a quantity of cockchafers, which were crushed and swallowed whole. First arrived here on oth September. Their favourite resting- place is the topmost branch of a dead tree. They always keep near a creek or waterhole. As a rule they are noisy. They are scattered along Parry’s Creek every half-mile or so, and they always keep near the same spot. I have sent my blackboy up several trees, but so far have found no nests. ALCYONE PULCHRA (Purple Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 383. Two adult males and one female. Parry’s Creek, 29/9/08. Eyes brownish-black ; feet and tarsi orange-red ; bill black, tip pale red. The stomach contained one small frog. Very rare on Parry’s Creek; usually found on creeks and rivers, seldom on waterholes. DACELO CERVINA (Fawn-breasted Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 388. Adult male and two females. Parry's Creek, 20th August, 1st September, 1908. Young male, 10/11/08 (27 days old). Iris pearly-white in adult, greyish-brown in young; feet and legs grey in adult, pale yellow in young ; bill—upper mandible dark brown, lower pale fleshy-white. The bills are usually dirty ; I have to wash them to see the colour. Thinly distributed wherever there are large trees. The stomach of young contained fragments of grasshoppers and a few small bones. HALCYON PYRRHOPYGIUS (Red-backed Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 390. Three adult males and one female. Parry’s Creek, 21/9/08. Eyes brown ; feet and legs olive-brown ; bill blackish-brown, base of lower mandible fleshy-white, tn | Matuews, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 7 The stomach contained a lizard 8 inches long. A few distributed along the creek. HALCYON SANCTUS (Sacred Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 391. Three adult males and four females. Parry’s Creek, 10/10/08. Eyes brown in male, blackish-brown in female; feet and tarsi brown; bill black, base of lower mandible fleshy-white. The stomach of all contained cockchafer beetles, and two had remains of a small lizard. Fairly numerous on the timbered flats and creeks. CYPSELUS PACIFICUS (White-rumped Swift). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 403. Sex? Parry’s Creek, October, 1908. Iris black ; feet blackish-brown ; bill black. The stomach contained a quantity of insects,a number of which were not broken. CUCULUS INORNATUS (Pallid Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 405. Male and female. Parry’s Creek, 9/11/08. Iris—male, brown, eyelid yellow; female, grey, with narrow inner ring of brown; feet and tarsi olive-brown; bill brown, base of lower mandible olive, corner of mouth yellow. The stomach contained hairy caterpillars and fragments of other insects, and white seeds the size of AA shot. The above specimens were the second ones seen. CACOMANTIS RUFULUS (Fan-tailed Cuckoo), Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 406. Male. Parry’s Creek, 9/9/08. Three males. Parry’s Creek, 11/11/08. Iris reddish-brown ; feet pale olive-yellow; bill black, lower mandible brown. The stomach contained hairy caterpillars. . Heard this bird call for the first time on 19th August. They were common on the 3rd November. They leave this part of the country in March. MESOCALIUS PALLIOLATUS (Black;eared Cuckoo), Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 409. Three males and three females. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris brown ; feet and tarsi leaden-brown ; bill black. The stomachs contained hairy caterpillars, and that of one of the females seeds of the fig. Seen for the first time on 2nd November. On the 14th November they were common. Never saw so many in one place before. These birds leave this part of the country in March. 8 MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. cance CHALCOCOCCYX BASALIS (Narrow-billed Bronze-Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. to. Three females and one of doubtful sex. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris greyish-white ; feet and tarsi leaden-brown; bill black, with base of lower mandible brown. The stomach contained hairy caterpillars. First seen on 31st October. They were common on the 3rd November. About a mile up Parry’s Creek the caterpillars were very numerous, and the Cuckoos were busy eating them. EUDYNAMIS CYANOCEPHALA (Koel). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 415. Two males and one female. Parry’s Creek, October, 1908. Iris red ; feet and tarsi leaden-blue ; bill olive-grey, base of culmen and lids of nostril blackish-brown. The stomach contained a quantity of green figs, &c. First heard on 15th October. They are skulking birds, When perched among thick branches, they move about very quietly. CENTROPUS PHASIANUS (Coucal). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 417. Two immature males and two females. Parry’s Creek, 22/9/08. Eyes light brown ; feet and legs leaden-blue ; bill brown, with lower mandible greyish-white. The stomach contained one small lizard, two grasshoppers, and three bad-smelling wood-bugs. Numerous along the creek. I heard the call for the first time on 10th September, which was the first hot-season day. we had had. It was only the first few notes of the call, and uttered half an hour after sundown. Saw one on an open piece of ground. When the bird heard me it lay flat on the ground, and did not move till I stopped and looked at it. It then flew into a tree about 30 yards away. They call till 9 o’clock in the evening. MICRGCA PALLIDA (Pale Flycatcher). Math., Handl, B. Austr., No. 435. Three males and three females. Parry’s Creek, 19/8/08. Iris dark brown; feet and legs brown; bill brown, base of lower mandible light brown. Sparingly distributed; only a few pairs seen. One male and female were got with one shot. The stomach contained some whole beetles and fragments of insects. Found a nest on 4th October in horizontal fork of a small Vol. IX. 1909 MatTHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 9 eucalyptus tree, about 15 feet from the ground. On 8th October they began to line it. SMICRORNIS FLAVESCENS (Yellow-tinted Tree-Tit). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 450. Four adult males and two females. Parry’s Creek, 24/9/08. Eyes very pale yellow; feet and tarsi leaden-grey ; bill— upper mandible pale brown, lower white. The stomach contained very small beetles and aphides. GERYGONE ALBIGULARIS (White-throated Fly-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 451. Three adult males, three adult females, and one immature male. Parry’s Creek, 10/9/08. Adult—Iris red ; feet and legs brown; bill black, tip brown. Immature—Iris light reddish; feet and legs leaden-blue; bill brown, base of lower mandible pale brown. Very active bird when feeding. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. PSEUDOGERYGONE CHLORONOTA (Green-backed Fly-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 465. Two males. Parry’s Creek, 7/9/08. Iris reddish-brown ; feet blackish-brown ; bill blackish-brown, base of lower mandible light brown. Very few seen. The stomach contained caterpillars and frag- ments of a few insects. PCECILODRYAS CERVINIVENTRIS (Buff-sided Robin). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 469. Seven males and five females. Parry’s Creek, October and November, 1908. Eyes dark brown; feet and tarsi leaden-grey ; bill black. Common; always frequents patches of scrub near water. Usually found in pairs. One pair of the above was mating. The stomach contained fragments of beetles. Two immature have under surface rusty-brown. The eggs of two nests were sent ; one nest contained two eggs, the other only one. RHIPIDURA DRYAS (Wood Fantail). Math., Handl. B. Aust., No. 485. Female. Parry’s Creek, 1/9/08. Iris brown ; feet and legs brown; bill dark brown. First seen in dense tangle of creepers on the banks of Parry's Creek. This is the first record from this district of this species. Io MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. series al RHIPIDURA ISURA (Northern Fantail). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 486. Three males and two females. Parry’s Creek, October, 1908. Iris brown ; feet and tarsi brown; bill—female, tip and culmen blackish-brown, base of upper and lower mandibles grey, balance of bill brown ; male, black, base of lower mandible pale brown. The stomach contained some fragments of small flies. These are parents of spirit specimen 193. Found along the banks of the creeks, both in low scrubs and high trees. Nest found 23rd October contained two young birds ; it was placed on the half-dead horizontal limb of a “fish poison” bush about 2 feet from the ground. RHIPIDURA TRICOLOR (Black-and-White Fantail). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 487. Adult male and two females. Parry’s Creek, 28/9/08. Eyes black ; feet and tarsi black ; bill black. The stomach contained many small winged insects. MYIAGRA CONCINNA (Blue Flycatcher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 489. Five adult males and six females. Parry’s Creek, 29/9/08. Eyes black ; feet and tarsi brownish-black ; bill leaden-blue, tip black. The stomach contained remains of small winged insects. Thinly distributed in timbered country, usually along creeks. SISURA NANA (Little Flycatcher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 494. Six males. Parry’s Creek, 9/9/08. One female, 29/10/08. Iris blackish-brown ; feet and legs black; culmen black, lower mandible and cutting edges of upper dark leaden-blue. Sparingly distributed along creek and near waterholes. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. CORACINA HYPOLEUCA (White-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike),. Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 506. Two males. Parry’s Creek, 31/8/08. Iris brown ; feet and legs black ; bill black. Saw a few of these birds, usually near creeks in heavy timber. The stomach contained fragments of beetles and figs. LALAGE TRICOLOR (White-shouldered Caterpillar-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 510. Four adult males, three females, and three immature males. Parry’s Creek, August and September, 1908. Iris brown ; feet and legs dark leaden-grey in adult male, olive-brown in immature male, brown in female; bill black, base ye MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. ita 1909 of lower mandible greyish-brown in adult male; in immature male and female bill brown, base of lower mandible pale yellow. The immature birds are just getting their dark feathers on the back. Common; lives on bauhinia trees when they are in bloom. The heads of some of the above have pollen on them. The stomach contained fragments of beetles and insects and flesh of figs. POMATOSTOMUS RUBECULUS (Red-breasted Babbler). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 532. Three adult males and two females. Parry’s Creek, 22nd August, 14th November, 1908. Iris very pale yellow ; feet and legs olive-brown ; bill brown, base of culmen and basal half of lower mandible white. These birds spend most of the day amongst the dense growth on the banks of creeks and waterholes, but are at times found many miles from water. The stomach contained fragments of insects. CINCLORHAMPHUS RUFESCENS (Rufous Song-Lark), Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 539. Male. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris brown ; feet and tarsi light brown ; bill dark brown. The stomach contained fragments of grasshoppers and other insects. CISTICOLA EXILIS (Grass-Warbler). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 552. Two males and two females. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris pale brown ; feet and tarsi yellowish-white ; bill—upper mandible brown, lower mandible and corner of mouth white. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. MALURUS CRUENTATUS (Red-backed Wren). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 608. Six adult males. Parry’s Creek, October, 1908. Six adult femaies and two immature males, 7/11/08. Two adult males are in full breeding plumage ; the other four are little, if any, different from the adult females. In the ones in breeding plumage the eye is black, feet and tarsi light brown, bill black ; in winter plumage the eye is dark brown, feet and tarsi light brown, bill brown, lower mandible fleshy-white ; the adult female the same. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. These birds feed very late. On the roth September, when it was nearly dark, I saw a flock of them running along the ground. I could not distinguish the birds, but knew their call, and knew they were feeding because I could hear their bills 12 MatHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. [,,8 Vy snapping as they caught the insects. They have .a_ short, squeaky call when feeding. ARTAMUS CINEREUS (Grey-breasted Wood-Swallow). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 629. Five adult males and four females. Parry’s Creek, 14th and 23rd October, 1908. Eyes brown ; feet and tarsi leaden-brown ; bill pale blue-grey, tip black. The stomach contained insects and the flesh and seeds of the cultivated fig. Very common on the plains where there are a few scattered trees. Never found in dense scrub. The heads have pollen on them. COLLYRIOCICHLA BRUNNEA (Brown Shrike-Thrush). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 638. Two males and two females. Parry’s Creek, 13-29/8/o8. Iris reddish-brown; feet and legs leaden-brown ; bill black in male, pale grey in female. Common in the scrub country, and a few seen along the creeks, GRALLINA PICATA (Magpie-Lark). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 646. Female. Parry’s Creek, October, 1908. Iris very pale yellow; feet black, tarsi blackish-brown ; bill—lids of nostril and distal % of culmen brown, balance of bill white. The stomach contained fragments of grasshoppers and other insects, PACHYCEPHALA FALCATA (Northern Thickhead). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 672. Six adult males and seven females. Parry’s Creek, Ist, 2nd, 3rd, and oth September and 4th and 6th November, 1908. Iris dark reddish-brown ; feet and legs leaden-grey or brown ; bill black in male, and brown with base of lower mandible fleshy- grey in female. Common along the creeks, and also found in the gullies away from the creeks, in patches of scrub. Has a clear, loud whistle, not unlike one call of Collyriocichla brunnea. The stomach contained fragments of insects and a quantity of green vegetable matter. NEOSITTA LEUCOPTERA (White-winged Tree-runner). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 699. Five males, two females, and one of doubtful sex. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. vale MatHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. E38 1909 Iris yellow, with pale yellow eyelid ; feet and tarsi yellow ; bill yellow, with tip brownish-black. The stomach contained fragments of small insects and in one male beetles as well. PARDALOTUS RUBRICATUS (Red-browed Pardalote). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 728. Adult male and immature male and female. Parry’s Creek, November, 1908. Iris pale yellow in adult male ; in immature male and female pale yellow, shading to greyish-yellow on outer edge; feet and tarsi—adult male pale leaden-grey ; immature male and female pale leaden-blue; bill—adult tale, culmen brown, balance white; immature male and female, upper mandible brown, with basal half of cutting edge of upper and all lower white. The stomachs contained—adult male, 3 small white grubs and fragments of small insects; immature male and female, fragments of small insects. PARDALOTUS UROPYGIALIS (Chestnut-rumped Pardalote). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 730. Four adult males and three females, immature male, and two young. Parry’s Creek, September, 1908. Iris pale brown ; feet and legs leaden-grey ; bill brown, lower mandible fleshy-white. They live in the eucalyptus trees, and are difficult to see. The stomach contained small white grubs, The tunnel was 2 feet long, and the nest, placed at the end, measured—outside, 5 inches x 5 inches x 2¥% inches deep; inside, 24% inches x 2% inches x 13@ inches deep. MELITHREPTUS ALBIGULARIS (White-throated Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 734. Adult male and female, two immature males and four females, and one of doubtful sex. Iris reddish-brown ; bare skin round the eye grey-blue ; feet and tarsi brown ; bill—black in adults ; blackish-brown, ‘base of lower mandible yellow, corner of mouth creamy- -white in immature. The stomach contained a few insects and some pulp, but I could not determine if animal or vegetable. MYZOMELA PECTORALIS (Banded Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 749. Two adult males and one female, one immature male and two females. Parry’s Creek, 28/9/08. The immature of both sexes have a yellow wash below the eye, more pronounced in the female. Eyes dark brown; 14 MaTHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. ene 12th July feet and tarsi leaden-blue ; bill black, corner of mouth yellow. The stomachs of all contained fragments of insects. GLYCYPHILA FASCIATA (White-breasted Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 758. Two males and two females. Parry’s Creek, 5/9/08. Iris pale reddish-brown; feet and legs very pale brown; bill brown, base of lower mandible light brown. Very common where trees are blooming. CONOPOPHILA RUFIGULARIS (Red-throated Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 762. Three males and three females. Parry’s Creek, 3-8/9/08. Iris pale brown; feet and legs leaden-grey ; bill brown, basal half of lower mandible leaden-grey. Very common ; often seen in great numbers at a waterhole and on flowering trees. Feeds largely on insects, which are often taken on the wing, in the same manner as the Micreca. Bathes while on the wing; it usually chooses a spot where a bush hangs over the water. The birds fly out a few yards from the bush, flutter their wings in the water, and then fly back and preen their feathers, repeating this many times. A nest placed in a pendent branch of a bauhinia tree, 4 feet from the ground, contained three eggs. STIGMATOPS OCULARIS (Brown Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 765. Six adult males and five females. Parry’s Creek, 8/10/08. Eyes grey-brown ; feet and tarsi leaden-blue ; bill brown, base of lower mandible pale brown. The stomach contained small insects, which might have been native bees, and also beetles. Very common; a great number of these birds were seen at a small pool, bathing. PTILOTIS SONORA (Singing Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 772. Two males. Parry's Creek, November, 1908. Iris brown; feet and tarsi pale leaden-blue ; bill black, with corner of mouth yellow. The stomach contained fragments of a few insects and aS and skins of a small native berry. PTILOTIS PLUMULA (Yellow-fronted Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 787. Three males, six females, and two of doubtful sex. Parry’s Creek, 23rd September, roth October, 1908. see Matuews, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 65 Iris dark brown ; feet and legs leaden-grey ; bill dark brown, basal half of lower mandible and corner of mouth yellow. The stomach contained a few small insects and some vegetable matter which looked like the petals of white flowers. PTILOTIS FLAVESCENS (Yellow-tinted Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 788. Three adult males and two females. Parry’s Creek, 30/9/08. Eyes brown; feet light brown ; bill blackish-brown. The stomach contained a few small insects. PTILOTIS UNICOLOR (White-gaped Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 795. Two adult males and three females. Parry's Creek, 12/10/08. Eyes grey ; feet and tarsi olive-brown ; bill black ; corner of mouth creamy-white. The stomach contained pieces of flesh and seeds of the small black native fig and other fruit. Very common. ENTOMYZA ALBIPENNIS (White-quilled Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 815. -Two adult males and one female. Parry’s Creek. Eyes pale yellow, bare skin above the eyes light blue, below very dark blue ; feet and tarsi olive-brown ; bill black, base blue- grey, corner of mouth dark blue. The stomach contained a few beetles and a quantity of flesh and seeds of the fig. TROPIDORHYNCHUS ARGENTICEPS (Silvery-crowned Friar-Bird), Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 816. Four males and one female. Parry's Creek, November, 1908. Iris, male red, female greyish-brown ; feet brown, tarsi olive- brown; bill and sides of head black. The stomach contained fragments of cockroaches, cockchafers, beetles, and insects, and fig seeds. MIRAFRA MILLIGANI (Pale Bush-Lark). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 825. Four adult females. Parry’s Creek, 15/10/08. Eyes brown; feet and tarsi fleshy-grey ; bill brown, lower mandible yellowish-white, tip brown. The stomachs of all contained grass seeds, beetles, and some fresh-water mussel shell and grit. Common on grassy plains. STICTOPTERA ANNULOSA (Black-ringed Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 833. Two adult males. Parry’s Creek, 15/10/08. 16 MatHews, On the Birds of North-West Australia. ee Eyes dark red ; feet and tarsi leaden-blue; bill pale leaden- blue. The stomach contained some grass seeds and a little grit. They have a few notes, which are sung in an undertone when the birds are perched in the bushes. It is hard to be sure of the individual, as they stop when one approaches. At dusk one night I saw five birds fly out of an old nest, which formed a roosting-place. POEPHILA PERSONATA (Masked Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 844. Adult male and female. Parry’s Creek, 30/9/08. Eyes red ; feet and tarsi red ; bill pale yellow. The stomach contained grass seeds, all husked. ORIOLUS SAGITTARIUS (Oriole). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 850. i One male and three females. Parry’s Creek, 28th August, 1908. Iris orange-red ; feet leaden-blue; bill fleshy-brown. Common in the dense growth along the creek. ORIOLUS FLAVICINCTUS (Yellow Oriole). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 851. Three males and one female. Parry’s Creek, 28th August, 3rd September, 1908. Iris red ; feet leaden-blue ; bill fleshy-brown. Usually found in pairs along Parry’s Creek in the dense growth. CHLAMYDODERA NUCHALIS (Great Bower-Bird). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 863. Male without nuchal crest. Parry's Creek, November, 1908. Iris brown ; feet and tarsi olive-brown ; bill blackish-brown, tip brown. The stomach contained some seeds and pulp of figs and one beetle. Notes on the Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota, Gld.) * BY ROBERT HALL, ‘C.M.Z25., Cou. MEM.-B:. Ose THE following observations + have been made in the south-east of the continent, and they relate to the species G. /euconota, Gould, and what I take to be its variety or sub-species, G. tibicen, Latham. In certain areas the sub-species is so fixed as apparently to be a species ; in others the inter-breeding and the specimens showing reversion are so common as to make them * See Proc. Roy. Soc. Vic., vol. xiv. (New Series), Part 1, pp. I to 9 (1901). + With the assistance of Messrs, G. Graham and J. P. Eckert. Vol. IX. 1909 | Hatt, Notes on the Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota). Ley inseparable; while again in the far back country of all the eastern States is shown the strong evidence of lesser dimensions, apart from dichromatism. Yet these lesser dimensions are not quite confined to the inland and drier area. Their points of resem- blance are so many and those of difference so few that one strongly inclines to mark them as one variable species. In habitat both are the same ; flight, gait, mode of hunting for food, and the food itself are of the same kind. The shape of the nest and the materials are the same. The lining of the nest is furnished in the same manner. The eggs are similar in size and colour; in brooding the male and female take part in both cases, while the female of each does most of the sitting, during which time she is fed by the male. The difference appears to be in the plumage markings; possibly, too, in warble and tempera- ment, varying with the area. In one district under observation the “ Black-back” prefers to place his nest on smaller trees—medium-sized saplings—into forks near the trunk of the tree. The “White-back” prefers large trees, and selects an upper branch somewhere near the crown, and places the nest near the end of the branch in a horizontal fork. In the Wimmera, Victoria, both place their nests on the eastern side of either branch or tree, this being the most sheltered position of the tree, the prevailing winter winds here being north and north-west. The warble of the “ Black-back” consists of about twelve distinct syllables, and is finished with an_ indescribable, delightful jubilant note. In every instance the female commences the warble, the male falling in at the last note, but holding it out longer than the female. The “ White-back ” rarely indulges in a song, rendering it in a less musical style, and only ina chorus. The syllables are fewer and shorter. The last note is finished with a sharp piping “ Coo-oo,” the emphasis being put upon the “ Coo,” whereas the “ Black-back’s ” last note is a distinct ‘“Croo-00-00,” the stress being placed upon the “Croo” and the last “coo.” This accentuation is, however, peculiar to the male bird only. In temperament the “ White-back” appears to be more savage than the “ Black-back.” In breeding time the ‘ White- back ”’ will attack almost any living thing of large dimensions, the “ Black-back” rarely interfering with anybody. About the fowl-yard the “ White-back” becomes a nuisance, disturbing the poultry and killing the chicks, and in the field it is constantly pursuing some bird that comes within its area—its own selected block. Every “family” of species and variety has an area of its own, this always being about the roosting-place. The tree which carries the nest is generally its roost. This is jealously guarded, and woe betide the namesake that dares to perch on the tree which is some other Magpie’s roost. A severe fight is 18 HALL, Notes on the Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota). oes then inevitable. The same occurs if one has overstepped the other’s boundary in search of food. The Magpies show great parental affection—I do not think any other birds are equal to them in this respect. For fully six months they care for their young and feed them, at the same time keeping a strict supervision over them. The parents exact the most prompt obedience. When fledged, so as to follow the old ones out to the fields to be fed, every young bird must take its turn in feeding. Should one of them be so forward as to be too loud in its demand, it is punished and thrown down, in which position it has to remain until its time. When the old ones rise to fly the young must follow and sit near, and on no account must the young go beyond the limit of area of the family. At the age of about two and a half to three months the young birds are permitted to look for their own food, but always in the vicinity of their parents. Quarrels over dainty morsels are settled through the parents, by simply taking away the “bone of contention.” Intercourse with the neighbouring brood is not permitted. The mating of a pair is generally for life. Should, however, a separation occur through the death of one member, the selection of another mate takes place in a remarkable manner. The widowed female is mated to a male bird of a neighbouring brood with great cclat. The widower, however, is left to shift for himself. He generally watches his chance to force himself between another pair and drive his adversary away. The female bird in such case remains passive, and does not take part in the quarrel. Should the intruder not be strong enough to achieve his wish, he appears to get some friend to help him, until his opponent is expelled. abe" The time of mating the young birds is a most interesting period in the life of a Magpie. This takes place during the middle week of April in the Wimmera, Victoria. On such an occasion several families with their offspring will assemble on neutral ground. The ceremony is opened with warbling, piping, and a mingled noisy chorus. All seem to be on friendly terms. This goes on for several days, when the old birds withdraw from the merriment and the young continue to select their partners, which, as a rule, is accomplished without much difficulty. As soon as this is done the parents again appear on the scene, to drive the young couples forcibly away: in no circumstances will they allow them to choose their new home near the place where they were reared. Nor are they permitted to visit the place again, not even on a flying visit. From the moment they have been mated they are looked upon as strangers and treated as such. Even those of the young birds that remain unmated, for whatever reason, are driven from their old home. In any district where the species or sub-species has kept Vol. TX. ~ 1909 ] HAtt, Noles on the Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota). 19 constant to its type, there is a strong tendency to oust from the flocks any young showing signs of reversion. While in certain areas the attempt to keep the purity of stock is partly successful, in others it is a hopeless task in the present generations—those on the borderland. With the agriculture of our future certain physical changes will occur to alter the local congregations of varying Magpies. Observation 1.*—On Ist August the female commenced enlarg- ing the bowl of the old nest, and afterwards relined it with bark, which she had torn into fine shreds. The first egg was laid on 16th August, the second on the 17th, the third on the 18th. Each egg was laid between 12 noon and 1 o'clock pm. The first young bird was hatched on 7th September, the second on the 8th, the third on the oth. I think it is remarkable that each young bird should have hatched out at midday. The head and back of the young birds are sparsely covered with long, tawny down. By 14th September the young birds’ skins had changed from pinkish to all black. The quills had sprouted along the ridge of the back and on the wings of the oldest of the young birds. On 16th September the quills appeared on the head and rump, while the first quills commenced to grow feathers. The colour of the bill was a dull brown-grey pink. On 18th September the oldest of the young birds opened its eyes, the sandy-coloured feathers formed above eyes and wings, with black feathers on the back, crown, throat, and breast, On 19th September the second youngest bird opened its eyes, and on 20th September the youngest. The two oldest of the young birds were now growing fast, but the youngest seemed to miss the food, and its development was very slow when compared with that of the others. On 21st September the third or youngest bird disappeared from the nest, the probability being that it either died of starvation or was pushed out by its stronger companions. On 22nd September the head, neck, and back were brownish-buff, the back being darker than the neck. The oldest bird had an orange-rufous band half an inch wide dividing the black of the crown and the buff of the neck. The second young bird had an orange band with much fainter colour. On 23rd September the tail quills were half an inch long, with budding feathers. The bill was darkening towards black. The primary was black, secondary white, tipped with black; greater wing coverts buff. On | 25th September the back was rufous-brown, with ‘slight streaks of black. The orange-rufous band had disappeared. On 27th September the back was growing darker rufous-brown. On 30th September the bill was slaty-black. From that day it was rather dangerous to make close observations, because of a lileli- hood of frightening the young birds out of the nest before the * The backs of the birds of Observations 1 and 2 were wholly white.-—R, H. 20 Hatt, Notes on the Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota). ete proper time. On 6th October one young bird stood on the edge of the nest and preened its feathers. Then it went back into the nest again. On 11th October the young birds left the nest to go into the branches immediately above it. On 15th October, early morning, one young bird was back in its nest again. The colours of the chicks at the time of leaving the nest were—crown, lores, and cheeks black ; hinder crown and nape creamy-white ; back grey streaked with black and rufous- brown; rump white; tail black; abdomen dark grey tipped with buff; legs black ; bill slaty-black. The remarks on colour appear to me to refer to the young males. At the time of leaving the nest the young females are without the creamy-white nape—that is, the back from the crown to the rump is rufous-brown. From 13th to 20th October the two chicks under observation had their food brought to them by the parents. On the latter date they started to follow the parents, each parent taking charge of a chick, and always keeping as wide apart as the limits of their ground would allow. The reason for this is clear, for should the young birds come together during the period of feeding there would be sure to be a battle between them. It is not known whether or not they camp together. On 9th November the young birds were able to search for food and partly feed themselves. The inclination to fight each other grew less. On Ist January the young birds imitated the song and call notes ina low key. By Ist February they were fairly perfect in all notes. The baby notes or cries were retained until the time of leaving the parents, which occurred on 12th August. Observation 2.—A pair of Magpies was rearing a very early brood (July) when suddenly some mishap occurred. The nest was deserted. The female Magpie constructed another nest adjacent to the old one, and hatched out the uncommonly large brood of four young. The larve of a nocturnal moth existed plentifully on the ground hunted over by the breeding pair, so that no difficulty was experienced in rearing the young up to the stage of following their parents. Knowing the combative instinct of the young Crow-Shrikes, their behaviour was closely watched for over a week, and at frequent intervals for a month immediately following. On 26th October the young birds were following their parents. Two were in possession, and fought and drove away the other two as often as they attempted to crave food from their parents.. The only opportunity they had to get a little attention from the parents was when the masterful young Magpies were quite satisfied or resting in the shade. That was seldom. This kind of hardship evidently compelled the less combative Magpies to directly seek food for themselves ; of this they did not seem to —— Vol. IX. z : a | Hatt, Notes on the Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota). aT find sufficient, and so the fighting continued at frequent intervals every day. They were being closely watched. As time passed the fighting fits grew less, because the two milder young birds, for the time being outsiders, grew expert in providing for them- selves. By 25th December all fighting ceased, and the two outcasts began to feed on the same ground as their parents, but not with them. In the earlier stages of their development they would certainly have perished had insect life been scarce. I have reason to believe that every third member of each brood dies of starvation, either in the nest or after leaving it. I have found, extending over several nesting periods, many young birds perfect in their development, and in the last stage before leaving their parents, lying about dead, with empty stomachs. If one searched a wider radius, a great number would be found to have been destroyed from the same cause. The stronger bird—in this case the finer fighter—has the better opportunity of existing, while the weak must succumb. The female matures at two years of age. If a young domesti- cated female be not kept a close prisoner it invariably wanders away, finds a mate, and nests. After August, large or small flocks of both sexes occupy restricted spaces of feeding ground. They are non-breeders, and are gregarious for a season. I take them to be the last season’s young birds that have become associated after having been driven away by their parents. The flock occupies the ground chosen until the following season, when they disband and disappear. Whilst incubating, the females are occasionally fed by the males, but the females always leave the nest to feed during early morning and evening. The young (Observation 1) are reared chiefly on a small black erub, the larva of a night-flying moth. Five are gathered in the bill, pulped, then fed to each nestling. The average number of visits to the nest with food, per hour, is four for each parent. The bill of the young bird appears to change from slaty-black to white when it arrives at one year of age. More evidence is needed upon this portion of the observation. Whilst the females are sitting, the males generally camp as near to them as possible. At other seasons the females prefer the tall eucalypts where the forest is thinnest. A SUBURBAN SANCTUARY.—The Governor in Council has authorized the proclamation of the ground of the Victoria Golf Club, at Fishermen’s Bend, as a sanctuary for animals and birds. The area comprises about 130 acres, near the south bank of the Yarra, leased by the club from the Crown. It is the intention of the club to plant the area with trees—wattles, &c.—which will be ornamental and at the same time provide shelter for the native bird life. 22 CAMPBELL, The Genus Pardalotus. (cee de The Genus Pardalotus. By A. G. CAMPBELL, POMONAL, VICTORIA. (Read before the Bird Observers’ Club, 17th March, 1909.) KEY TO THE GENUS. Crown uniform black (or greyish in youth). Rump dark brown; throat and chest yellow (2, 3, 7). P. melanocephalus. Rump yellowish; throat yellow ; chest white (1, 3, 8). P. uropygialts. Crown black spotted with white (or yellow in youth). Lores scarlet ; primaries edged rufous (1, 2, 3, 7, 8). P. rubricatus.* Lores white ; primaries black except tips (white). Rump mostly chestnut (2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 9). P. punctatus. Rump all yellow (6, 7, 9). P. xanthopygtus. Crown black, streaked white (grey in youth); always a few yellow or red feathers at base of primaries. Nearly all primaries edged white, making a conspicuous white patch (2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9). P. ornatus. Third or third and fourth primaries only edged white. Small yellow patch on wing ; third primary edged white (4,05): P. affinis. Small red patch on wing ; third primary and sometimes fourth edged white (2, 3, 4, 6, 7). P. assimilts. Crown mottled olive, like back ; no colour on wing, but each feather tipped white (5). P. quadragintus. Flabitats (after Hall).—1, Northern Territory; 2, North Queensland ; 3, South Queensland and New South Wales (north- east coast); 4, South-east Australia; 5, Tasmania; 6, South Australia and north-west Victoria; 7, Central Australia; 8, North-west Australia ; 9, Western Australia. NESTING-PLACES OF PARDALOTES. In Victoria there are four species of Pardalotes, perhaps five. Two belong to the section having crown of head streaked with white. These are—P. ornatus, in northern Victoria, and P. asstmtlzs, in southern Victoria. They have also a small bright- coloured patch (speculum) on the wing, while the other two are the more beautiful spotted birds, P. punctatus and P. xantho- pygius. Now, the latter invariably build their nests in the ground. P. xanthopygius is found only in the north-western Mallee, and selects the protection of a tussock or some upturned bush in which to tunnel into the sandy soil. P. punctatus is found throughout the whole of Victoria, excepting the north- * Including P. pallida (see Emu, viii., p. 142).—A. G, C. Vol. IX. EROS CAMPBELL, The Genus Pardalotus. 23 west ; the nearest point to the habitat of the Mallee species to which it ventures probably being the Grampians, 50 miles away. This species will select the bank of a creek, side of a hill, quarry, ditch, rabbit burrow, or even plough furrow, where it will tunnel in a distance of about a foot, and then scoop out a cavity 4 inches in diameter in which to make its bulky domed nest of soft shreds of bark. No instances are on record of spotted Pardalotes nesting in any place but the ground, The streak-headed Pardalotes usually nest in trees. Old red gum trees in the outskirts of Melbourne still give shelter to colonies of P. asszmzlzs, which share with Petrochelidon nigricans (Tree-Martin) the numerous small holes the trees have to offer as ideal nesting-places. The other species, P. ovmatus, is found north of the Divide and ranges right into the north-west, where in timber (stringybark) belts, and in red gums which mark ancient lakes or watercourses, it isabundant. The nesting practice is usually to build in holes of trees, but many cases have come under my notice showing the species will nest freely in holes in the ground. Along the banks of the River Murray, near Corowa, I have watched the birds at work. Although innumerable nesting-holes are to be found inthe red gums there- about (and I have no doubt many birds did nest in the trees), yet at places where the river's bank had been broken away by flood, though in summer high and dry, several pairs of Pardalotes were to be found nesting. The tunnel, about 2% inches in diameter, was drilled in an upward direction into the hard silt, and at a distance of g inches or a foot in the nest- chamber was hollowed out. The nest of this species is always built of fine grass. The roof of the chamber may be but scantily lined, but the fact of grass being used at once distinguishes this species from P. punctatus. I have seen nests of P. ornatus some miles away from the river, drilled into the side of a ditch. With P. asszmilis the practice of building in the ground is not nearly socommon. One spot, however, there used to be by the River Yarra, near Heidelberg, where a small party of this southern and larger variety regularly nested. It was a high silt bank, a replica of the Murray banks just described, and at least three pairs nested there. The burrow and grass-made nest were very similar to those of P. ornatus, but, together with the eggs, were of slightly larger size. I mentioned that there were perhaps five species of Pardalotes in Victoria. I refer to a single specimen which I shot while in company with Mr. Geo. Shepherd at Somerville. It had a bright yellow speculum, and therefore answered to the description of P. affinis of Tasmania, where no red speculum birds are known. At that gentleman’s home I was shown a hole in a chimney stack where a pair of P. asszmzlzs had successfully reared a brood. 24 Forp, Birds of Yackandandah Creek Valley. [seth Tuly Birds of Yackandandah Creek Valley, between Yackandandah and Kiewa, Victoria. By H. W. Forp, F.G.S. 1908. August.—Strepera graculina and S. cuneicaudata (Pied and Grey Crow- Shrikes), Grallina picata (Magpie-Lark), Collyviocincla har- monica (Grey Shrike-Thrush), Cracticus destyuctoy (Butcher- Bird), Platycercus elegans (Crimson Parrakeet), Platycercus eximius (Rosella), Climacteris scandens (Brown Tree-creeper), Psephotus hematonotus (Red-backed Parrakeet), Pomato- vhinus superciliosus (White-browed Babbler), Callocephalon galeatum (Gang-Gang Cockatoo), Corvus coronoides (Crow), Podargus strigoides (Frogmouth), Cacatua galerita (White Cockatoo), Pachycephala gutturalis (White-throated Thickhead), Acanthiza chrysorrhoa (Yellow-rumped Tit), Lobivanellus lobatus (Spur-winged Plover), Malurus cyaneus (Blue Wren), Coturnix pectoralis (Stubble-Quail), Notophoyx nove-hollandie (White-fronted Heron), Staganopleura guttata (Spotted-sided Finch), Gymnorhina tibicen and G. leuconota (Black-backed and White-backed Magpies), Phalacrocorax gouldi and P. sulcivostris (White-breasted and Little Black Cormorants), Anas super- ciliosa (Black Duck), Nettion castaneum (Teal), Chenonetta jubata (Wood-Duck), Rhipidura tricoloy (Black-and-White Fantail), Dacelo gigas (Brown Kingfisher), Myzantha garrula (Miner), Cerchneis cenchroides (Kestrel), Haliastuy sphenurus (Whistling Eagle), Burhinus grallavius (Stone-Plover), Cor- covax melanorhamphus (White-winged Chough). All these birds were to be seen or heard in August. September.—Cuculus pallidus and Chalcococcyx plagosus (Pallid and Bronze Cuckoos), Graucalus melanops (Black-faced Cuckoo- Shrike), Avtamus_ sordidus (Wood-Swallow), Pardalotus assimilis (Orange-tipped Pardalote), Philemon corniculatus (Friar-Bird). October 3 to 5.—Rhipidura albiscapa (White-shafted Fantails) seen. October 6.-—Eurystomus australis (Dollar-Bird or Roller).—Three of: these birds appeared in trees on creek flat—the first seen by writer in Victoria. Last seen in tropical Queensland in 1877. Artamus personatus (Masked Wood-Swallows) observed at 2 p-m., going north. October 7.—Masked Wood-Swallows, high up, going north, 5 to 6 p.m. October 11.—Hypotenidia philippinensis (Pectoral Rail) seen. _ October 12 to 14.—-Two pairs of Lalage tricoloy (White-shouldered Caterpillar-eater) seen. They remained and nested, leaving about 31st January, 1909. October 14.—Small flock of Calopsittacus nove-hollandi@ (Cockatoo- Parrakeets) seen, going north. October 16.—Acrocephalus australis (Reed-Warblers) about swamp ; also Civcus gouldi (Harrier). October 2 to 30.—Petreca bicoloy (Hooded Robins) about. October 11.—Circus gouldi (Harrier) nesting inswamp. Halcyon sanctus (Sacred Kingfisher) seen. Numbers of these birds about later. October 20.—A flock of Petrochelidon ariel (Fairy Martins) about. Oviolus viridis (Orioles) seen, Vv ib IDS Y 7 AP 7 DA) os Forp, Birds of Yackandandah Creek Valley. 25 October 20, 24, 25.—Flocks of Carphibis spinicollis (Straw-necked Ibis) feeding on flats. October 24.—Two flocks of Calopsittacus nove-hollandie (Cockatoo- Parakeets) observed, going south. October 25.—A pair of Haliastur sphenurus (Whistling Eagles) seen. October 25 to 30.—Nycticorax caledonicus (Night-Heron) in willows on creek flat. October 26.—-Pardalotus assimilis (Orange-tipped Pardalotes) nest- building—stripping bark off trees and carrying it away. October 27.— Eurystomus australis (Dollar-Birds) numerous. They remained on creek till 30th January, 1909, nesting in tree- hollows. Seemed all to go away about end of January. Merops ornatus (Bee-eaters) seen. Cockatoo-Parrakeets going south. Masked Wood-Swallows, high up, travelling in same direction. Nest of Climacteris scandens (Brown Tree-creeper) found, containing two young about a week old. October 28.—At 10.30 a.m. Avtamus personatus (Masked Wood- Swallows) seen, high up, going south. M#gintha temporalis (Red-browed Finches) about. October 30.—Eurystomus australis (Dollar-Birds) and Merops ornatus (Bee-eaters) seen in numbers. November 1 to 30.—Oviolus viridis (Orioles), Philemon corniculatus (Friar-Birds), Pardalotus assimilis (Orange-tipped Pardalotes), and Eurystomus australis (Dollar-Birds) nesting. November 3 and 4.—A pair of Nisaétus morphnoides (Little Eagles) seen. November 10.—Little Eagles (a pair) about. November 11.—Artamus pevsonatus (Masked Wood - Swallows), going south. November 12.—Masked Wood-Swallows, at 6 to 7 p.m., going south. November 13 to 22.—Aviamus supervciliosus (White-browed Wood- Swallows) about camp till 22nd November, when they left, after heavy thunder and rain. November 14 to 16.---Cinclovrhamphus cruvalis (Brown Song-Lark) heard and seen. November 23.—-Nest of Spotted Crake (Porzana fluminea) found, with seven eggs ; bird sitting ; eggs 13 inches long, 1 inch broad ; cream-pink, with brown and blue spots.* November 27 and 28.—Eggs in above nest chipping on 27th; on morning of 28th four young out. Old bird fluttered off, and got the four young away, and did not return while we were looking on. Two more young came out unaided, and one made its way to us, 15 yards away, and was put back in the nest. On the 29th all the young were gone, and one infertile egg in nest. The young were very lively, and quite black. December 6 to 8. — Avtamus superciliosus (White-browed Wood- Swallows) about camp. All left on 24/12/08. December 19.—Young Artamus sordidus (Wood-Swallow) seen, well fledged. December 24.—Three young of Rhipidura tricolor (Black-and-White Fantail) just leaving nest. Geopelia tvanquilla (Peaceful Doves) seen. Cevchneis cenchroides (Kestrel) observed chasing Brown Tree-creeper. Tree-creeper got away into hollow stump. Hundreds of Carphibis spinicollis (Straw-necked Ibis) noticed feeding at 7 a.m. * This description is not referable to the eggs of Porzana fluminea,—EDs, 26 Forp, Birds of Yackandandah Creek Valley. er acly December 26.—-Sisuva inquieta (Restless Flycatcher) seen. Platalea vegia (Black-billed Spoonbill) going north at 7 pm. December 30. — Found. nest of Avtamus sovdidus (Wood-Swallow) containing young. 1909. January 8.—Staganopleura guttuta (Spotted-sided Finch) building: - January 11.—Platalea regia (Black-billed Spoonbill) on creek. January 15.—Ibis molucca (White Ibis) observed with flock of Straw- necked species. At first two only were seen, but after a week or so there were seven white birds. January 16.—Pair of Petreca goodenovi (Red-capped Robins) seen. January 18.— Young of Calopsittacus nove-hollandie (Cockateo- Parrakeets) just leaving nest. January 26.— Chetuva caudacuta (Spine-tailed .Swifts).—Twelve of these birds appeared, 7.45 to 7.55 p.m., in creek valley, hawking, and appearing to work south, though the last three, when lost sight of through getting below range of hills, were going north. They were hawking insects. January 28.—At 7.45. p.m. a flock of Hivundo neoxena (Swallows)— about 40—appeared suddenly about trees, evidently amongst a swarm ofinsects. At 7.50 p.m. they suddenly disappeared. January 29.—Another flock of Swallows (about 40) appeared at 7.15 to 7.30 p.m. They were hawking flying-ants. There were several Bee-eaters and Wood-Swallows (Avtamus sovdidus) in company with the Swallows. February 1 and 6.—Spotted-sided Finches building. February 2.—A large flock of Swallows (about 200) appeared in creek valley at 7.30 p.m. They came in low down, and went round about the trees, rising above them till fairly high, when they went away to the south. February 21.—A Dollar-Bird seen, making north. February 28th.—At 6.30 p.m. a flock of Chetura caudacuta (Swifts) came into Yackandandah Creek valley, and kept low down, below the tops of trees, hawking, till 6.45 p.m., when they disappeared without the direction of their flight being seen. January and February. — Hundreds of Mevops ornatus (Bee-eaters) : about creek valley. Description of a New Pseudogerygone from South-East Queensland.* By W. E. WEATHERILL, QUEENSLAND MUSEUM, BRISBANE. PSEUDOGERYGONE CANTATOR, sp. nov. Adult.—General colour above, olive-brown, tinged with fawn on the rump; lesser and median wing coverts like the back; greater coverts dark brown, narrowly margined with olive-brown. Primaries and secondaries edged with pale brown, which becomes indistinct towards the outermost feather. Tail crossed * The author has kindly furnished the editors of Zhe Amu with a reprint of this ‘* Description,’”’ but no reference is given to the magazine in which it originally appeared, Vol. IX. 1909 ] WEATHERILL, Description of a New Pseudogerygone. a, by a broad band of black, basal half brown; each feather, with the exception of the two central ones, which are brown, has a large white spot near the extremity of the inner web; the two outermost feathers have two white spots, which are separated by a strip of brown running along the edge of the quill. Eye- ring, feathers under the eye, lores, and a line above the eye grey. In front of the eye is an indistinct blackish spot. Under surface ashy-white, lighter on the throat and under tail coverts. Thighs grey, flanks ashy-grey, under wing coverts and auxiliaries white; quills white below, becoming darker near the tips. Under surface of the primaries and secondaries whitish along the edge of the inner web. Bill and feet black, iris red. Young have the eye-ring, a line above the eye, lores, feathers below the eye, and the edges of the primaries and secondaries suphur-yellow. Measurements of an adult male in flesh— fotallenetha..... ae eS ... 114 millimeters Culmen ... nes a6 % TENTS 5 Wing... me ihe ee Fae BO i. ail ee ae a Gs Pay as x Parsus= <3: ies Mae 26 Differs from Pseudogerygone fusca, with which it has been generally confounded, in the following characters :— Flanks and under tail coverts washed with buff; feet and legs weak ; size small: length (in millimeters), 96.5; .culmen, 8.45; wing, 48.35; tail, 43.20; tarsus, 16.50 Oe: Ae el we fusca. Flanks ashy-grey ; under tail coverts white ; feet and legs strong; size large: length(in millimeters), 114; culmen, 10; wing, 56; tail, 45; tarsus, 20 in CAT ALOR. The nest is a strongly built, compact structure, of oval shape, and abruptly narrowing to a long, slender appendage; it is suspended from one or more slender twigs, round which the material forming the roof is neatly and strongly woven; the entrance is protected from the weather by an overhanging flap, similar to the eaves of a house. It is composed externally of delicate fibrous bark, fine roots, and dry grasses, firmly bound together by spiders’ webs, and almost invariably ornamented with the cocoons of those insects; internally it is lined with feathers, thistle-down, and other soft material. It is most frequently suspended from the end of a mangrove bough over- hanging the water. Total length 11 inches, about 5 inches of which constitute the appendage; diameter 3 inches at the widest part ; entrance circular, 1 inch in diameter. Eggs —Clutch, three; long oval in shape; texture of shell fine ; surface slightly glossy. Colour pale pink ; some speckled all over with reddish-brown spots ; others with the spots forming 28 WEATHERILL, Description of a New Pseudogerygone. eons a dark red zone at the larger end. Outside dimensions (in millimeters), 17.8 x 12.6 to 17 x 13.2. Type in the Queensland Museum, collected and presented by Mr. W. E. Weatherill. This bird is a denizen of the coast, and lives among the man- grove bushes on the islands of Moreton Bay, and along the banks of the rivers and creeks in South-East Queensland. It may often be observed in the parks and gardens close to the coast, busily engaged in quest of insects. At intervals of every few minutes it bursts forth into song; this is so sweet and well sustained that the residents of the Brisbane district call it the “Queensland Canary.” Its pre-eminence as a song-bird above its congeners induces me to propose the above name for the species. Stray Feathers. BLACK-TAILED GopwIT.—I find, on comparing Lzmosa limosa from Europe with the Black-tailed Godwit from Australia, that for the latter the name of Lzmosa melanurotdes, Gould, must stand.—GREGORY M. MATHEWS. Herts., England. * * * CURLEWS (NUMENIUS CYANOPUS) MIGRATING. — Passing through Cranbourne on the evening of Friday, 12th March, 1909, a few minutes before 7 o’clock, I heard numerous cries of Curlews (Numenztus cyanopus), and, knowing they must be migrating (as there is no coast line near), I reined in my horse and listened. A large flock was evidently flying overhead at a great height. After listening for a while it became evident that their route was as nearly as possible from south-east to north-west by west, and their “direction” would bring them over, I should say, North Brighton. It was too dark for observation.—GEo. E. SHEPHERD. Somerville ( Vic.) * x * RED-BROWED TREE-CREEPER AT OLINDA.—TI secured a single specimen of the Red-browed Tree-creeper (C/macteris erythrops) at Olinda (Vic.) on the 30th January, 1909. Although a good look-out was kept, no others were noticed in the locality. I shot the bird while its back was to me, thinking it was C. /eucophea, and was delighted on picking it up to find I had been mistaken. I find by my note-book I have it sexed as a male, but this bird, having the rusty markings on the breast, should, according to John Gould, be the female. I can only admit, before such an authority, that I must have made an error in dissection. I think this is the farthest point south this species as been recorded from.—L. G. CHANDLER. Melbourne, Vol. IX. 1909 Stray Feathers; 29 THE RETURN OF THE BirDs.—The following table will show the dates of some birds’ return to this district in 1907, with their relative arrivals of 1908 :— 1907. 1908. Pallid Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus) . SOP tneAge see wAMe.... 7 Rufous-breasted Thickhead (Pachycephala vufiventris) .. Sept, la. eam Sent sos White-shouldered Caterpillar- -eater (Lalage tricolor) Aug 1S ee a Sept. 27, Rufous Song- -Latk (Cinclorhamphus : v ufescens) Sept. 8) 2 aesepercs White-browed Wood-Swallow (Artamus superciliosus) Oct) 1 (sales Masked Wood-Swallow (Artamus personatus) Oct. 24 ( POET Es —A. H. CHISHOLM. Maryborough (Vic.), 17/10, 08. * * * FLAME-BREASTED ROBIN.—I have just read the very interesting monograph on the Flame-breasted Robin (Petreca phenicea) in The Emu (viii, p. 122) by Mr. A. G. Campbell. It may be of interest to the writer to know that I saw numbers of Flame-breasted Robins in the spring of 1882 on spurs of Mount Useful, Gippsland, and two pairs were nest-building in crevices of stringybark trees, about 12 to 15 feet from the ground. The mountain spur was about 4,000 feet above sea level. I also saw at same place and time a pair of Hooded Robins building. Though I was in Cape Otway district from 1849 to 1868, I never saw nests of Flame-breasted Robins, but I have no doubt that they nested in the forest ranges.—H. W. Forp. Fitzroy (Vic.), 21/3/09. * * * FALCON AND BAT.—Some little time ago the noise of the dray I was driving startled a common bat from his hiding-place in the hollow spout of a tree. A Little Falcon (Falco lunulatus), perched on the top of a high tree, instantly noticed the bat, and dashed down to secure (as he thought) an easy prey. But as he swooped the bat ducked, and, apparently diving between the Falcon’s legs, fluttered away. The Falcon turned like a flash and quickly overtook the little fugitive, with the same result. Time and again did the Falcon swoop, his claws outspread to grip, and time after time did the bat, by his fluttering, dodgy flight, evade his pursuer. At length, the bat, seeing a hollow spout near, dashed into it, and next second the Falcon settled, but—too late. —ERNEST D. BARNARD. Gladstone (Q.), 11/5/09. *% ** * OWLS RETAINING THEIR PREY.—I have another note to add to my previous one (Amu, vii.. p. 187) re Owls retaining their night catch during the day. A few weeks ago, sitting by the side of a spring in the range, eating my lunch, I got to 30 Stray Feathers. iS ae thinking of a pair of Owls that formerly used to inhabit a thick fig-tree on the opposite side of the gully, and, looking across, I noticed the tail of an opossum sticking out from a leaning branch. Raising my eyes a little I saw the barred breast of a Powerful Owl (WVznox strenua). On walking nearer the Owl flew away, and dropped what remained of the ‘possum, the hind legs and tail, which part was quite cold and stiff, evidently having been killed the night before. I may mention that it was only a young ’possum, about half-grown. The other Owl was in the fig-tree, and allowed me to walk up to within a few yards, and returned my stare with interest. A few years ago I shot a full-grown young one at the same place, showing that they must have nested about August.—CHAS. A. BARNARD. Coomooboo- laroo (Q.), 3/6/09. * * WoobD-SWALLOWS CLUSTERING.—My friend, Mr. J. G. Tepper, -E.L.S., member of the Royal Society “of Seu Australia, has sent me the following observation made by him in the: bush forty years ago :—“ While public teacher at Monarto, Murray Valley, I went sometimes into the Mallee bush, then in its dense original state, to get a wallaby for the larder. Returning in the evening I had twice the pleasure—a rare one—of witnessing at close quarters the arrival of the Wood- Swallows (Artamus tenebrosus) at their roosting-place. Gliding noiselessly through the open timber—peppermint gums (Eucalyp- tus odorata)—a flock of about fifty or more arrived in straight, low flight at a rather thick overhanging branch some 10 or 12 feet from the ground, and in less than one minute were settled ina single cluster, looking only like a natural swelling of the branch, and apparently motionless. Viewed against a bright star just on the margin of the group, the slightest heaving only could be detected, but no sound was audible. It was to me entirely new, and almost incredible. Many times I watched that tree when time permitted, but only on one other occasion, weeks later, had my observation confirmed.” ——H. STUART Dove. W. Devonport (Tas.), 15/5/09. * x * AN ABNORMAL ROBIN.—After the Easter holidays, Mr. Reg. Slater, of Launceston, brought me a bird shot at Lake Leake. Unfortunately, the bird was somewhat knocked about, and a good skin was impossible. Before critically examining the specimen to endeavour to determine the species, I forwarded it to Mr. Robert Hall, C.M.Z.S., for his examination. In a letter accompanying the skin he replied :—“ The specimen of bird you sent me for identification puzzles me as well as you. It looks like a fine female specimen of Petreca phenicea. You will need to compare the primaries, secondaries, rectrices, and bill Vol AX. yous ] Stray Feathers. 31 with your collection, and then I question if you will get it with certainty. It is quite abnormal in the plumage, lacking the pigment of all except desert forms,” I have now carefully and critically examined the bird, as suggested by Mr. Hall, and cannot arrive at any other conclusion than that it is in all probability an extremely abnormal form of P. phaentcea. A brief description of the bird is as follows :—Upper surface, in- cluding head, sandy-buff; throat and chest a shade darker; abdomen and under tail coverts paler; tail same colour as abdomen; wings sandy-buff, edged with dirty white; major wing coverts dirty white; bill, legs, and feet pale sandy-buff. Dimensions in mm.—length 135, culmen 9, wing 76, tail 48, tarsus 19. From the evidence of the plumage the bird was not a young one.—F RANK M. LITTLER. Launceston, 26/4/09. * * + j AN INTERESTING CENSUS.—The following birds I noticed here yesterday in the trees along the banks of the Upper Hunter River, and within an area of 20 acres of the estate, viz. :—Warty- faced Honey-eater (Meliphaga phrygia), White-naped Honey-eater (Melithreptus atricapillus), White-plumed Honey-eater (Ptilotis penicillata), Blue-faced Honey-eater (Entomyza cyanotus), Miner (Myzantha garrula), Friar-Bird (Tvopidorhynchus corniculatus), Restless Flycatcher (Sisuva inquieta), Brown Flycatcher (Micreca fascinans), Black-and-White Fantail (Rhipidura tricolor), Black- backed Magpie (Gymmnorhina tibicen), Butcher-Bird (Cracticus destructor), Swallow (Hirundo neoxena), Brown Tree-creeper (Climacteris scandens), Wood-Swallow (Artamus tenebrosus), Magpie- Lark (Grallina picata), Great Brown Kingfisher (Dacelo gigas), Sacred Kingfisher (Halcyon sanctus), Ground-Lark (A nthus australis), Crow (Corvus coronoides), Wedge-tailed Eagle (Uroaétus audax), Ground-Dove (Geopelia tranquilla), White-shouldered Caterpillar- eater (Lalage tricolor), Yellow-rumped Tit (Acanthiza chrysorrhoa), White Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita), Red-rumped Parrakeet (Psephotus hematonotus), Little Lorikeet (Glossopsittacus pusillus), Musk Lorikeet (Glossopsittacus concinnus), Whiteface (Xerophila _leucopsis), White-fronted Heron (Notophoyx nove-hollandia), Spotted Pardalote (Pardalotus punctatus), Babbler (Pomatorhinus frivolus), Grey Shrike-Thrush (Collyriocichla harmonica), Hooded Robin (Petreca bicolor), Scarlet-breasted Robin (Petreca leggit), Spotted-sided Finch (Staganopleura guttata).—S1D. WM. JACKSON. Belltrees, Scone (N.S.W.), 15/6/09. * **K * ABORIGINAL NAMES.—In connection with Mr. S. W. Jackson’s interesting article, “In the Barron River Valley, N.Q.” (Emu, viii., pp. 233-283), the following additional names, as given to the various birds, &c., by the aborigines of the Tinaroo scrub, have been kindly supplied by the author, viz. :—White-fronted Heron (“ Balla-birra”), Snake-necked Darter (‘ Tar-curra ”) 32 Stvay Feathers. : ath faly White-breasted Cormorant (“ Bur-oga”), Rose-crowned Fruit- Pigeon (“ Men-in-gee”’), Drongo (‘ Pie-gin-gin ”), White-shafted Fantail (“ Beran-gin”), Rufous Fantail (“ Gin-gin-bulga ”), Large- tailed Nightjar (“Dar-go”), Acanthiza squamata (“ Mingi- mingi”), Barred (Swainson) Cuckoo-Shrike (‘“ Cher-am”), Shining Starling (“ War-ee-bidja”); Native Nutmeg Tree (“Coorum-bah”), large edible scrub Fig (“Bun-bah”), Giant Lawyer Vine (“ Yah-bul-um ”); Small Lawyer Vine, Calamus australts (“ Boo-gul”); Large-leaved Stinging Tree (“Doong-un”), Red Cedar Tree (“ Wong-garra-gar”), Kauri Pine Tree* (“ Tork-oi”), Fire (“ Bur-rea ”), Water (“ Bonna”), Large Snails (“ Cad-doo-gal”), Small Snails (“Caro-gen”), Cicada (“ Core- men ”), Grasshopper (“Bun-ting”), Crocodile (“Cun-yara”), Black Snake (“Cun-doi”), Carpet Snake (“ Tun-gul”), Tree-climbing Kangaroo (“ Map-pey,” also known as “ Boon-garra” at Card- well); Bush Kangaroo (“Eur-e”), Goanna (‘‘ Co-karra”), Porcupine (“ Yar-goin”), Platypus (‘ Un-bah”), Large White- tailed Scrub-Rat (“ Tur-gen ”). * * * Woopb-SWALLoWS AS HONEY-EATERS.—In the last issue of The Emu (viii., p. 219) I contributed some observations on these birds in what was to me a new /ré/e—that of honey-eaters. Since then I have taken other notes on this subject, and these are appended. Owing probably to the luxuriant flowering of the eucalypts this autumn, there has been an unusual influx of Honey-eaters about here during the past few weeks—in fact, I hardly remember a year when they have been as numerous. Lorikeets ~ —Musk, Little, and Purple-crowned (Glossopstttacus concinnus, G. pusillus, and G. porphyrocephalus)—are here in abundance, and their loud screams ring out in sharp contrast to the pleasant liquid three-note call of the pretty Warty-faced Honey-eaters (Meliphaga phrygia), in convention assembled. All these numerous Honey-eaters proper had not been in possession of the blossoms long when I was somewhat surprised to note that their numbers had been reinforced by the arrival of a goodly number of Wood-Swallows. As stated in my last note, these birds proved but the advance guard of what were to follow, for in a few days’ time the trees were swarming with Wood- Swallows, until they bade fair to outrival the Lorikeets in numbers. On the last occasion I noted members of the Artamus family eating honey it was the Masked and White-browed species (A. personatus and A. superciliosus) that were represented, feeding on the honey of the silky oak blossom. This time the * This pine is shown in Zhe Emu, viii., pl. xxvi., and is known to botanists as Agathis robusta. The Queensland kauri is found mainly in the Cairns district,— Eps ee Stray Feathers. 33 White-browed species—which in May of other years had practically all migrated northward—was again to be noted, but not one of the Masked species was present, its place being taken by the stationary species, A. sordidus (Wood-Swallow). I have never known them to stay like this before, and it cannot be that the usual supply of insect food has failed, for they have not been to their winter quarters to see. The White-brows were, if anything, more plentiful than the Sordid species, and I notice, too, that their bright summer colouring has sobered considerably.—A. H. CHISHOLM. Maryborough (Vic.), 14/5/09. * * * AN AUSTRALIAN AVIARY.—In the flight aviary, 60 feet long by 25 feet wide by 30 feet high, in Melbourne Zoo, the following birds are thriving well, namely :—Black-and-White Fantail (Rhipidura tricolor), \Narty-faced Honey-eater (Meliphaga phrygia), Yellow-faced Honey-eater (Pélotis chrysops), Yellow- tufted Honey-eater (P. auricomzs), Fuscous Honey-eater (P. Jusca), White-plumed Honey-eater (P. fenzcellata), White-eared Honey-eater (P. /eucotts), Brush Wattle-Bird (Acanthochera mellivora), White-bearded Honey-eater (MZelornzs nove- hollandie), \White-browed Wood-Swallow (Artamus superciliosus), Masked Wood-Swallow. (A. fersonatus), Wood-Swallow (A. sovdidus), Sacred Kingfisher (Halcyon sanctus), Black-breasted Plover (Zonzfer tricolor), Black-fronted Dottrel (#gzalitis melanops), Magpie-Lark (Gradl/ina picata), and Yellow-breasted Shrike-Robin (Zopsaltria australis). This aviary is by far the most extensive of its kind in Australia, or, indeed, elsewhere, and the birds enumerated do well and are exceedingly tame. There are a good many of each kind mentioned. The beautiful Yellow-tufted and Warty-faced Honey-eaters are perhaps the most showy occupants. In the centre of the aviary is a fine red gum (eucalypt), which will soon be bursting into flower, thus affording natural food for a time to all the honey-loving kinds. Mention should also be made of the pair each of Black-breasted Plovers and Black-fronted Dottrels, perfect in feather as in their graceful movements beside the miniature lagoon. The migratory members of Wood-Swallows are apparently healthy and happy, notwithstanding their enforced detention in a more southern home, particularly at this time of the year (midwinter). A Grey Shrike-Thrush (Coll/yriocincla harmonica) keeps within the darker shades of the aviary. When food is plentiful he may be all right ; otherwise, as in the open he has been guilty of killing small prey, what might he do in the enclosure ?—A. J. CAMPBELL. * * * NIGHT-BIRDS IN COMBAT.—In the January number of Nature Notes (London), 1908, I described a desperate duel 34 Stray Feathers: gre witnessed between Tasmanian Butcher-Birds (Cractzcus cinereus, Gld.), which was commented upon in the February issue by Dr. Dudley Buxton, who gave similar instances of pugnacity among British birds. My friend, Mr. Foster Leek, of Mersey Bluff, was fortunate enough to witness the termination of an encounter between nocturnal fliers, such an incident being, I think, previously unrecorded. One morning last summer Mr. Leek left his cottage about 5.30, and on passing through the garden gate noticed what looked like a heap of feathers outside the fence. On examining the object, he found that two night-birds— a Spotted Owl (Wznxox maculata, V. and H.) and a Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides)—had been apparently engaged in a fierce duel, and had become entangledand unableto separate. Curiously enough, one foot of the Frogmouth was caught in the Owl’s mouth. Both were much exhausted, the plumage was dirty and bedraggled, the eyes blinded with dédris. The Podargus, although the larger, appeared to have suffered more than the Owl, which is compactly built, and I should say would give a good account of himself in battle. On being separated, the Owl flew to a fence, where it rested for a time, afterwards flying off to some more secluded spot ; my friend placed the Frogmouth on the low branch of a tree in a sequestered nook, where it remained all day, but disappeared before nightfall. The Spotted Owl is the author of the very familiar “‘Mopoke” call in our bush during the nights of winter and spring, a sound which the bush-dwellers invariably attribute to the Podargus, which is frequently called the Mopoke. I am aware that some observers believe the Podargus also calls “ Mopoke,’ but the only sound which I can personally attribute to the latter is a curious moaning noise, uttered when sitting upon a stump or fence. The true Boobook Owl (iV. do0b00k) we have not in Tasmania, or, at any rate, I have not so far seen a specimen, during a long residence in the bush, nor are there any in our museums.—H. STUART DOVE. W. Devonport (Tas.), 2/6/09. * * * BLUE WRENS NESTING IN Ivy.—The pair of Wrens (Zalurus cyaneus) mentioned in the October issue of Zhe Emu (viii. p. 95) started to build in an ivy shrub (Hedeva Australiana) on 5th October. The nest was placed 5 feet 6 inches from the ground, and, as far as I observed, the female carried the material for construction and built the nest entirely herself, the male bird, always on the alert, watching operations from a pepper-tree (Schinus molle) close by, where he could warn his mate of intruders. One morning while thus occupied a male Sparrow (Passer domesticus) challenged and viciously attacked him, when the female Wren instantly came to the rescue and drove the Sparrow off. The Wrens naturally were jealous of the situation, Vol. 1X. THE EMU, It. PLATE ‘jsoN JO 90UeI}Ue Ivou ‘gjemof pue o[eul “M’S'N SWITINVA ‘173y4¥uNg ‘(snauvAI SnANjVI\) SU2IA\ ING AYYWH Ad *SOLOHd WOYS Vol. IX. 1909 Stray Feathers. 35 as they had made it their quarters and slept in the ivy all through the previous winter. As I wished to photograph the parents (see Plate II.), I did not pry into the nest, for fear of disturbing them, until the young were hatched, therefore I am at a loss as to dates of egg-laying and time spent in incubation. Thirty-seven days elapsed between that of laying the foundation and desertion by young of the nest. On 7th November, at 7 a.m., I sat by the nest and timed the parents feeding the four young birds. Within 15 minutes the male bird brought twelve insects, and cleaned the nest out three times, carrying the droppings away in his bill. The female brought one insect only, but visited the nest three times during the male’s absence, and stayed with the young till his majesty returned. I have watched them on several occasions, with similar results, the male always doing the greater share of cleaning the nest and supplying the wants of the fledglings; these operations were apparently continuous from daylight till dark, as | am about the garden often during the day, and on my approaching the nest at all times they seemed to be as busy as ever with their task. The enormous quantity of insects these birds must destroy, feeding their brood and satisfying their own voracious appetites, is certainly food for reflection. As far as I could detect, they fed their young princi- pally on moths, spiders, caterpillars, small grasshoppers, and some white pulpy substance. On 1oth November the young birds left their nest, but stayed about the garden, in the trees, for three days. By that time they became fairly strong fliers, and, led by their parents, flew off to the river-banks, where thistles of various kinds grow in abundance. On 19th November the happy family returned again, perhaps to rear a second brood, but, alas! the nest, a pretty, dome-shaped structure, during their absence had been torn to shreds by some disappointed person intent on egg-collecting, thus ending my observations—HARRY BURRELL. Manilla (N.S.W.), 2/3/09. * * * SOME QUEENSLAND Notes.—The following notes, which I cull from a letter from a bird-lover living in Central Queensland, will be read with interest—the picturesque account of the Galahs’ movements especially. My friend writes :— “ Bird-life of late has not been very plentiful here, beyond the everyday visitors, owing probably to the great amount of rain over Central Queensland this summer. Every creek and waterhole is full, and the growth of grass so luxuriant that it is difficult often to get near the birds, which you know are there. “Finches of several species have returned lately, after an absence (except in small, isolated flocks) of years, and some Large-tailed Grass-Wrens (A mytzs macrura)*—rare visitors here * This bird is not a Queensland species.—EDs, 3 6 Stray Feathers. ft rath fly —have been seen. Betcherygahs (Melopscttacus undulatus) are fairly numerous, but uneasy, as if in strange country. Years sometimes pass without our seeing these most lovely little birds, then, suddenly, the bush is alive with them. My brother, on atrip in from the Northern Territory, when about Boulia, saw them in thousands. He said he saw a flock alight in a dead tree, covering every twig, until the tree appeared to be coated with fresh green leaves. I have never seen so many as that, but a few days ago I noticed a small flock on a dead branch which had a similar effect—made more beautiful by the pretty colouring of a few Galahs (Cacatua roseicapilla) amongst them, like pink flowers among green leaves. “A large flock of Galahs on a partially dead myall tree has a most wonderful effect at a distance of about a quarter of a mile. The grey and pink clothe the bare branches, and give them the appearance of bursting into blossom, almost the shade of some double peach blossom. The Galah is perhaps the most common bird about here, rarely being altogether absent, and frequently being noticed out on the Downs in flocks of hundreds, their numbers generally being strengthened with a plentiful sprinkling of White and Black Cockatoos. The whole flock feeds amicably together, always keeping a sentinel stationed on some near-by tree or fence, which warns its congeners of the approach of danger, not visible to them in the long grass. At the warning cry, in one moment the air is full of a clamouring, shrieking mass, which, as the danger passes, soon settles on the feeding ground again. Have you ever seen a proper flight of Galahs? Most likely not, unless you have been in the interior, on the well-grassed Downs. It is a most wonderful sight, and, once seen, never to be forgotten. I will endeavour to describe such a scene, but, with the best description, there must be much left to the imagination which words fail to supply. Usually when the weather is broken or unsettled, though often on a windy winter morning, or in thundery weather in March or April, against the grey masses of cloud which bank up, forming a sombre background, it would seem that all the Galahs in the vicinity had gathered into one flock, shrieking and screaming as they circle high in the air, all beating their wings in perfect unison. So, as it were at a given signal, instantaneously the delicate rose-coloured breasts are all turned the one way, making a beautiful glow of colour as the birds veer round ; then, with one beat, the flock seems to have almost disappeared, just a glimpse of silvery-grey flashing as they turn their backs ;* then a mere speck where each bird is flying, so small that one would hardly believe it to be a bird, so almost invisible does the grey become ; then a flash of silvery light before the * A similar scene is mentioned in ‘‘ Nests and Eggs” (Campbell), p. 617.— Eps, te. Vol. IX. 19909 Stvay Feathers. 37 glow of their breasts flashes into view again. The whole time there is an incessant screaming as they beat backwards and forwards in the same place for perhaps half an hour; then, swooping with a rush of wings cleaving the air, re-forming into flocks—all at a tremendous pace, and flying so closely together that one constantly expects to see a collision, but never does one bird make a mistake ; simultaneously every bird turns and twists in mid-air, until, wearied out, the flock disperses into small groups, which drift away to settle in the grass or trees around. Sometimes the Galahs keep this up off and on all day, and for days at a time. “ Another such flock I saw on the Warrego a few years ago. Judging by measurements, it must have been over a quarter of a mile long and one hundred yards wide, inside which space were crowded fluttering, flashing forms, alternating in their rose and silver splashes of splendour as they beat backwards and _ for- wards.”—A. H. CHISHOLM. Maryborough (Vic.), 14/5/09. * » * WEST DEVONPORT (TAS.) NOTES.—An interesting gathering of the feathered tribes was witnessed during the last week of March in a paddock near the beach at Devonport. The clans consisted of Wood-Swallows in numbers, “ Summer-Birds” (a pair, with two young), one pair of Tree-Martins (Petrochelidon nigricans), one of Scarlet-breasted Robins (Petreca legg7z), and a single Shrike-Thrush. The Summer-Birds or Small-billed Cuckoo-Shrikes (Coracina parvirostris) fly with what Gilbert White calls “ volaté undoso” —the wavy flight—flapping, then dipping on straight wings, flapping again on the upward curve. This species is tinted with delicate greys, whitish on the under side, black patch on throat and cheeks, dark ends to wings, tail dark with white border. The young appeared not to have the black on throat. The Wood-Swallow (Artamus tenebrosus) takes a_ sailing flight, then flaps, then sails again without dipping. It hops when on terra firma, but those seen at this season did not move much when on the ground, generally dropping straight on their prey from a branch or post, sometimes remaining sitting on the ground, but often returning to the perch. Their food consisted largely of grasshoppers, which were numerous. The Coraczna always flicks its long, pointed wings alternately up and down after alighting ; the Avtamus under the same circumstances oscillates its tail sideways, often up and down as well. The head, back, and under side of the latter appear of a greyish- brown, wings and beak of a dark blue-grey, tail dark with a white edge, and the young had a more speckled look than the parents. The pair of Tree-Martins (Petrochelidon nigricans) was sailing 3 8 Stray Feathers: if se about capturing insects, while the Robins (Petreca /egg7z) made short flights about the ground and fences. A young Fan-tailed Cuckoo (Cacomantis rufulus) was noticed the previous day near the same place, catching larve in the grass, and attended by a pair of Scarlet-breasted Robins— perhaps the foster-parents, but they did not attempt to take it food. A large Hawk passed overhead, and the Cuckoo, which was sitting on the fence at the time, merely glanced up, but did not attempt to move, although the Robins chattered loudly. During this gathering the Wood-Swallows uttered very frequently their reedy chirpings, but there was no note from the “ Summer-Birds.” Spine-tailed Swift (Chetura caudacuta).—The movements of this lightning-speeded migrant seem shrouded in mystery. Those noticed by my friend, Mr. H.C. Thompson, of Launceston, Tasmania, both last season and this, took a southerly course when leaving. Ina recent note he says :—“ The Swifts seen over this city on the afternoon of Easter Thursday, 8th April, went away towards the south-west, as did the others previously seen, and they did not circle about as usual.” While returning from a boating trip with a party of friends on the River Mersey here at Devonport, I happened to notice on looking skyward a small body of Swifts moving across the river towards the south, at a high altitude. This was at sunset on 31st March, the wind being south-west, with a stormy sky. They were going straight, at a good speed, as if making for some definite goal, and were the only ones seen here this season—z.e., since the beginning of February, when I came over from Victoria. It seems highly probable that both the party seen over Launceston by Mr. Thompson and those noted by myself near Devonport were on migration, as the summer was at an end, and they were making a straight course as if with some well-defined purpose ; but why they should make to the southward with such persistence is the puzzling point. Is it possible this fine Swift goes on the principle of “ great circle sailing,’ and sweeps round in a grand aerial curve until it strikes the favouring current which will bear it to the north? The movements of the Spine-tail would make an interesting subject for discussion in the columns of The Emu. Summer-Bird or Short-billed Cuckoo-Shrike (Coracina parvirostris ).—While walking down to the ferry with a couple of friends on the afternoon of 8th May to cross the Mersey River, I was surprised to see a company of about thirty Summer-Birds at some height over the houses, heading to the north-west at a good rate ; the wind was south-easterly, light, sky somewhat overcast. It is very unusual to see such a large number of this species together in May, although two or three often stay the winter on the coast. From their mode of flight I should judge this party to have been on migration, but to Vol. IX. 1909 Stvay Feathers. 39 what goal? In September I have seen parties of the same bird coming from the north-west, and, as our species is said to be unknown on the mainland, I can only think of King Island, or some other similar spot in the Strait, as their “ camping- ground.” At the same moment that the Summer-Birds crossed our town a large flight of Ducks passed at a much greater altitude, making about north-north-east. I do not know whether there is any interchange of communication between our Ducks and those of the mainland ; possibly those noted were making to the Furneaux Group of islands, which would not be a great journey. The Wood-Swallows (Artamus tenebrosus) \eft us about the middle of April, after first mustering for two or three weeks in some paddocks by the sea-front; but on 2nd May I noted a pair of Tree-Martins (Petrochelidon nigricans) over Devonport, and on 10th May a Swallow (AHzrundo neoxena) was flying low about the streets. [The scientific names given above are those adopted by Mr. G. M. Mathews in his recent “ Handlist” (Supplement Z7uz, vii.) |—H. STUART DOVE. * * * AN OOLOGIST’S PARADISE.—Shortly previous to the last A.O.U. Congress (November, 1908), I took a trip to the lower reaches of the Murray River and out back into the adjacent Mallee scrub. Accompanied by my wife, I left Adelaide one afternoon by the Melbourne express, reached Murray Bridge that evening made arrangements for a boat, and left early in the morning, going down stream. The first halt was made at Monteith’s Flat, and, after landing our kit and forming camp, we struck in over some pine-clad sand-hills. Birds were fairly numerous. The Varied Parrakeet (Psephotus multicolor) was observed nesting in a hollow branch of a box-tree (eucalypt), and near by a little Brown Flycatcher (Wicreca fascinans) had her frail nest, perched high up on the horizontal fork of a pine bough, and almost in the next tree was a nest of the White-shouldered Caterpillar-eater (La/age tricolor). Again within a_ stone’s throw was the pretty pendent nest of the Spiny-cheeked Honey- eater (Acanthochera rufigularts), while almost every other tree contained a nest in this warm and sheltered corner between two sand-hills. Red-capped Robins (Petreca goodenovt) were nesting very plentifully this season, and their beautifully constructed nests were difficult to discover in the forks of the pine-trees, owing to particles of the bark and lichens being fastened on to the outside of the nest to deceive their enemies. Great Brown Kingfishers (Dacelo gigas) were brooding in the hollows of the old gum-trees (eucalypts) on the edge of the 40 Stvay Feathers. om july swamp, and the mud nests of the Magpie-Lark (Gvra/lina picata) were seen everywhere. The fine Goshawk (Astur approximans) had eggs in a nest in the top of a high pine. We were not in camp that night till after dark, and then had to prepare our evening meal and see to our bunks, after which I blew some eges collected during the day for museum purposes. Early next morning we made a move-down the river, but before starting saw some Biack-and-White Swallows (Cherameca leuco- sternum), which were tunnelling into asand-bank. One nest we excavated was composed of dry grass, roots, and leaves, and contained four eggs. As we proceeded, the little Grass- Warblers (Czstzcola exilis) were found nesting in the high grass and dock on the edge of the swamp. Their nests, being most beautiful and delicately constructed, are perfect works of art. The dock- leaves are marvellously sewn round on both sides, and looking in through the small aperture one sees the three pretty green-mottled eggs. Not far from here the Little Grass-Birds (Megalurus gramineus) were nesting in the cutting-grass ; their nests were covered in on the top with Bald-Coots’ (Porphyrio melanonotus) feathers, completely hiding the red-speckled eggs. Reed- Warblers (Acrocephalus australis) were nesting freely amongst the reeds on the river bank, and, strange to say, I observed one nest lined with feathers—a feature which has never come under my notice before. Whistling Eagles (Halastur sphenurus) were brooding in the tops of high gums, hundreds of feet from the ground or water, as the case may be, and after a hard climb I procured a fine clutch of two eggs. Bald-Coots had their nests in the flags, and I observed one clutch of ten eggs. Musk- Ducks (4zszura /obata) were numerous, and I noted a clutch of six eggs—the largest I have known. These shy birds build a beautiful dome-shaped nest of plaited reeds and flags, lined inside with down plucked from the Ducks’ own bodies. Back from the swamps a stick was thrown at a likely hollow limb, and out flew a Boobook Owl (Wznxox boobook). Climbing up, I saw a clutch of eggs lying on the decayed wood, and, strange to say, one egg was prominently marked—even more so than the one in Mr. Le Souéf’s collection. After entering the scrub, a Hooded Robin’s (Petreca bicolor) nest was discovered, and in a bunch of cutting-grass the nest of the White-fronted Bush-Chat (Ephthianura albifrons), containing three speckled eggs, was discovered. On our way back to camp that night, an aquatic bird left a clump of rushes very hastily, and dived off. On hunting the rushes, a nest was found which resembled a Musk- Duck’s in every way with the exception of its being but half the size, and inside six eggs lay in a bed of down, the same shape and colour as those of the Musk-Duck but only half their size. Here was a mystery, so the eggs were left, in order that the bird might be seen for identification. Next morning a visit was x Rs Stray Feathers. 41 paid to the locality,and on approaching the place steathily a rustle was heard and a “ plomp,” the rings on the water telling that the bird had again dived out of sight, but on reappearing it proved, as I had supposed, to be a female Blue-billed Duck (Erismatura australis), a rare species, and thus cleared up the identity of the nest and eggs. This is the first clutch of the Blue-billed Duck’s eggs I have taken. From here a long tramp was commenced into the thick Mallee scrub, and it was late in the day before my wife and self reached the home of the Mallee- Hen (Lzfoa). After some time we discovered an egg-mound lately covered up. An examination of the ground for some distance in every direction revealed the numerous tracks of foxes, and there is no doubt that these animals not only dig out the eggs but lie in wait for the unfortunate birds, as the feathers in the vicinity only too plainly showed. There is not a shadow of doubt that the extermination of these quaint birds will take place within a few years. After a very hard journey (the latter part in the dark), we reached our camp exceedingly tired. The following day found me rowing up stream on the return journey to Murray Bridge—a tough job, for our boat was heavy and well laden, while the stream ran strongly against us. But what cared we for that ; we had had a very profitable trip both as regards specimens collected and observations made.—(CapPrT.) S. A. WHITE. Fulham, S.A. * * * THE PILOT-BIRD (PYCNOPTILUS FLOCCOSUS).*— The township of Ferntree Gully (about 22 miles due east of Melbourne) is situated at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges, and the gully itself is reached after a few minutes’ walk. The creek is confined between rather low and heavily timbered ranges, and is fringed with a scrub of wire-grass (E/%rhata), sword-grass (Leprdosperma), and native hop (Goodenza ovata). A second growth of sassafras, hazel, and musk is surmounted by very tall timber, so that one can readily imagine its density. Here in the shadowed obscurity is the home of this terrestial and silver- throated form. As I mentioned elsewhere, the bird is very plentiful, but one needs patience to obtain sight of it. During the seasons of 1907-8 a good deal of time was spent with this bird, and I have been enabled to correct many wrong impressions and to add new facts of its domestic economy. For instance, the call note, “ Guinea-a-week,” is only used by the male, and the female responds quickly (like the female of Psophodes), “ Qui-wit-tui-wit-tee,” and a perceptible pause is noticed between the second and third syllables, the last note being considerably higher. We have observed, too, that the birds are local to an extraordinary degree, and after marking down a pair one can * Supplementary to ‘* Observations ” in 7he Emu, vi., p. 183. E 42 Stray Feathers. cath July always rely on finding them again within a radius of a few hundred yards, and apparently they never go beyond that limit. This applies also to their nesting. When a nest was found in a new locality we generally found old ones, some lately used and others so old that they were just held together. The task of making the nest falls to the female alone, the male accom- panying her the while and uttering his sweet call of “ Guinea-a- week ” ; both utter a soft and sweet “ Qui-wit,” and occasionally a piping “ Tui.” The alarm note is a piping “Tow” (sounded as in cow). The nest is first started with a few long eucalyptus leaves, then bark is used, and finally it is lined with soft, fine grasses or feathers. It is rapidly put together, taking from 1% to 2 days, one being apparently finished after eight hours’ work. On 24th November, 1907, at 9 a.m., I was attracted to a spot by the call of a female. She was on the ground and facing a tussock of fine grass. Creeping closely up to the spot (the bed of a dry creek), I was enabled to see her start the nest. Suddenly the bird would dart into the tussock and use both wings and feet, turning round and round. This was repeated some five or six times before the opening made was satisfactory, after which she quickly commenced to lay in the leaves, and I quietly withdrew. Passing the place at 5.30 p.m. I and a companion were astonished to find it apparently finished. Two eggs were taken, slightly incubated, on Saturday, 6th December. The nests are placed in a variety of positions, sometimes quite on the ground and never more than 2 feet from it. Many have been found in débrzs, but the general site is in sword-grass, grass tussocks, and wire-grass. Now and then a nest will be found embedded in these coverings, but we have observed that asa rule the opening commands a fairly open space, generally facing down hill, and if a creek or gully be close by it faces that way. The eggs are two only, and, although we have noticed a great number of their nests, we have never seen more. The colour varies considerably. The typical egg is of a dark chocolate with a darker zone round the larger end, measur- ing slightly more than an inch in length by about three-quarters of an inch in width. We have noticed some that were almost white, others of a light buff with minute dark spots; some, again, are olive and dark green, and through various shades of chocolate. One female lays an odd set, one being of a drab hue and the other greenish-white. Sometimes hairlike markings appear on the surface, the colour of these being black ; others, again, are zoned from top to bottom, but they all have the appearance of being cracked all over when first taken from the nest. The egg is deposited in the nest about 11 a.m., and, I believe, on alternate days, the clutch being completed in about eight days after finishing the nest. On three occasions the egg of Cacomantts Vol. 1X. 1909 Stray Feathers. 43 flabelliformis (Fan-tailed Cuckoo) was noticed, accompanied by one egg only of the Pycnoptzlus. In the third case, at Ferny Creek (Dandenong Ranges), on 27th December, 1908, an egg of each was in the nest, and, as I had often wondered what had become of the other, I retraced my steps and found it on the ground, in front of and about a foot away from the nest, and intact. This nest was placed in wire-grass on a sloping hillside about 60 yards away from the creek, the opening, as usual, facing down hill and skilfully hidden. No doubt had there beena fall instead of aslope the egg would have been broken. Incuba- tion was about 5 days old in the nest eggs, but the one outside was perfectly fresh. The young are born blind and naked, and after a day or soa dark brown down appears. The eyes open in about five days, and the irides are black or very dark brown. At a week old the feathers are well developed and those along the abdomen are white and well defined, the primaries are half unfurled, the gape creamy-white, and the mouth yellow ; general colour above dark brown. On 15th November of last year we disturbed a pair and their young from a dense patch of sword and wire grasses, and, after an exciting chase, managed to capture one of the young ones. It was apparently about six weeks’ old; the gape was still of a whitish colour, and the general plumage was practically identical with that of the parent. When about three months old the gape assumes a greyish hue, and adult plumage is doubtless attained after the first moult. Both birds feed the young in the nest, and for a considerable time after. At this time the young follow the parents, uttering a soft, wheezing call for food, which is taken from the side of the parent’s bill. When in the nest it is dropped into the open mouth. I have noticed, too, that the young would often remain stationary and sheltered under a piece of scrub while the parents were feeding, and now and then they (the parents) would rapidly make their way towards the young with food. When about two months old they shift for themselves, and are then very easy to approach, and if one remains perfectly still will feed about without fear. Often as I have been intently watching them I have heard them give utterance to the “ Guinea-a-week”’ and other notes, but so low as not to be heard more than a few paces away. The breeding season extends over seven months. Eggs have been taken as early as 22nd August (1907) and as late as 1oth February (same year). Two broods are reared, and possibly three. On 12th January, 1908, I flushed a female from a pair of dark grey eges while the male was attending to the wants of a pair of young about two or three months old close by.—F. E. HowE. Melbourne. Emu A4 From Magazines, &¢:; roth Juiy From Magazines, &c. “GENERIC NAMES APPLIED TO BIRDS DURING THE YEARS I90I TO 1905, INCLUSIVE, WITH FURTHER ADDITIONS TO WATERHOUSE'S ‘ INDEX GENERUM AVIUM.’ "—This important list, compiled by Charles W. Richmond, of the U.S. National Museum, has been issued at the Government Printing Office, Washington. It revolutionizes some of the existing generic names of Australian birds, and is recommended to the thoughtful consideration of the future committee or compilers of an Aus- tralian check-list. * x * TASMANIAN FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB’S EASTER CAMP- OuT, 1909.—The club has reprinted in book form from Zhe Tasmanian Mail a report on this excursion, which was attended by 85 persons, of whom 24 were ladies. The locality chosen was Wineglass Bay, on the eastern side of the Freycinet Peninsula. In addition to a general report on the camp-out, notes are given on the botany, ornithology, geology, and zoology of the Peninsula, those on the birds being contributed by Mr. Robt. Hall, C.M.Z.S., who deals with the 33 species, including land and sea forms, observed during the period (from Good Friday till the following Tuesday) over which the excursion extended. Asa scientific reference, it is unfortunate that the list of bird names is full of typographical errors and obsolete terms. This is tobe regretted, as the reprint is issued under the badge of the Naturalists’ Club, and therefore should have been revised. Accompanying the letterpress are numerous fine illus- trations of the beauty-spots of the locality visited. The function was carried out without the slightest hitch, and the club is to be congratulated on its success. * * * ANIMALS PRESERVATION SOCIETY. — A_ well-attended meeting was held at the Royal Society’s rooms last night, under the presidency of Mr. Winchcombe, M.L.C., for the purpose of calling into existence a society for the preservation of our fauna. Addresses were delivered by Messrs. F. Farnell, W. W. Froggatt, W. A. Greaves, H. C. L. Anderson, D. G. Stead, L. Harrison, and others, all touching upon one aspect or another of our indigenous animals or plants. It was urged that from economic, patriotic, natural, historical, and sentimental points of view, a society should be formed to encourage the preservation of our animals and birds. One proposition was that the flora should be also protected ; but the meeting decided to deal only with the fauna, and gave the name of “ Australian Animals Preservation Society ” to the new organization. It was decided to make the subscription 5s. for membership, and the acting hon. secretary, Vol. IX. 1909 From Magaztnes, &c. 45 Mr. L. Harrison, enrolled a large number of members. 52 Notes and Notices. Pr ig Papua of Birds-of-Paradise, Goura Pigeons, or Ospreys, or of the skin, feathers, or plumage of any such bird, shall be prohibited, unless it is proved to the satisfaction of the Collector :— “(a) That the Bird-of-Paradise, Goura Pigeon, or Osprey, or the skin, feathers, or plumage thereof, was exported, taken, or sent out of the Territory of Papua with the written consent of the Collector or other principal officer of Customs of the said Territory ; or “(6) That the Bird-of-Paradise, Goura Pigeon, or Osprey, or the skin, feathers, or plumage thereof, was exported from the said Territory before the 9th day of December, 1908, the day of the commencement of the said Ordinance.” Australasian Ornithologists’ Union Next Annual (1909) Congress. THE following is an outline of the programme for the forth- coming sessions of the Union at Adelaide. The “camp- -out ” will be of especial interest, since the locality chosen is where some of the Eastern and Western forms inosculate. Those desirous of joining the “camp-out” should send their names to the hon. secretary, so that concession tickets may be arranged for. A detailed programme, now in course of preparation, will be forwarded to each member. Wednesday, 29th September—Leave Melbourne for Adelaide by Adelaide express. Thursday, 30th September—Arrive in Adelaide in the morning, and in the evening the opening meeting of the Congress, for the reading of papers, &c., will be held. Friday, Ist GctaseeTeeeet on “Bass Strait Expedition,” illustrated by lantern slides and cinematograph films taken on the voyage. Saturday, 2nd October—General business meeting of the Union. Sunday, 3rd October, and Monday, 4th October \ To be arranged for. Tuesday, 5th October—Leave for the “working camp-out” on the Eyre Peninsula. Saturday, 16th October—Break up camp. pie in Adelaide on Sunday morning. TRA -ASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION. are CO-PATRONS: Their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales. OFFICE-BEARERS : President: Mr. D. Le SOUEF, C.M.Z.S., &c. (Mr. - J. CAMPBELL, Cor. Mem. B.O.U, “\Mr. J. W. MELLOR, Hon. Secretary: Mr. G. F. HILL. (c/o Zoological Gardens, Melbourne. Private Address—3o05 Dandenong Road, : Windsor, Victoria). Hon. Treasurer: Mr. J. A. ROSS. (Address—Crown Solicitor’s Office, Lonsdale St., Melbourne.) Hon. Librarian: Mr. A. H. E. MATTINGLEY, C.M.Z.S, Press Correspondent: Mr. C. L. BARRETT. Mr. A. J.:-CAMPBELL, Co1. Mem. .B.0.U. Mr. SCOTT MORRISON. Members of Council: SuRGEON-COLONEL C. S. RYAN (Victoria), Mr. L. HARRISON (New South Wales), Mr. W. M ‘ILWRAITH (Queensland), Mr. BERNARD H. WOODWARD, F.G.S. (Western Australia), Mr, A. L. BUTLER (Tasmania), Mr. E. F. STEAD (New Zealand), Vice: Presidents: Editors of. The Emu{ OBJECTS, &c.- - - - of the Science of Ornithology, the protection of useful and ornamental avifauna, and the publication of a wiaaine called The Emu. The business of the Society shall be conducted by a Council, con- sisting of a President, two Vice-Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer, Librarian, ' Editors of Zhe Emu, and six members; each office-bearer and member of the Council shall retire at the end of each financial year, but shall be eligible for re-election. The Annual Meeting shall be held in one or other of the Seat towns of the different States, such State to be decided at the previous Annual Meeting. Every member shall be fennel to pay an annual subscription of fifteen shillings, due on the first of July each year. (The usual exchange to be added to Foreign, Interstate and Country cheques, drafts, &c.) The offices of the Society shall be at the office of the Hon. Secretary ~ of the Society for the time being, or at such other place as the Council may appoint. © HE objects of the Society are the advancement and popularization ADVERTISEMENTS. FELTON, GRIMWADE & co. importers of every description of Microscopes, Galvanic Batteries, Chemical and Scientific Apparatus, be. STUDENTS’ MICROSCcores. . vy . With Sliding Coarse Adjustment, Screw Fine Adjustment ca Leitz D) (ieroscopes, Micrometer, Objectives Nos. 3 and 7, Eye-pieces 1 and 3, IN MAHOGANY CASES. Magnifying 84-600. . Mi With Sliding Coarse Adjustment, Screw Fine Yatehet’ Ss ») creroseopes, Adjustment, Double Mirror, Side Condensing ens, Eye-pieces Nos. 1 and 3, Objectives Nos. 3 and 6, Glass Slip, Cover Glasses, Mounted Object Forceps, Magnifying 80-5sso. In Mahogany Cases. Microscopic Glass Slips, 3in. x 1in., Extra Thin, Ground Edges and Rough Edges. Microscopic Cover Glasses, Nos. 1 and 3, at in., 34-in. and %-in, Circles. No.1 Square, | %-in. and %in.; No. 3 Square, 4%4-in. and 34-4 inch a APRA AR 342-6 LITTLE FLINDERS ST., (MELBOURNE. Cc. COMES, NATURALIST, FURRIER, AND CURIO. DEALER, TRADES IN— . Bird=sSkins, Shells, Entomological and Ethnological Specimens, &c. SEND LIST OF REQUIREMENTS, NUMBERS AS PER “HALL’S KEY” (IF BIRDS). 16, 24, and 25 VICTORIA ARCADE (Hor eit.) SYDNEY, N.S.W. H. J. TROWBRIDGE, ee Camera Etouse, 296 COLLINS STREET, MELBOURNE. — THE HOUSE FOR Photo. Yovelties NOW LANDING—~ > A Splendid Assortment of HAND and STAND CAMERAS. The 30/« HAND CAMERA is Better Value than many on the Market at Double the Price. We are not bound to any one make of Camera. We oR our asc aha the Best British Houses. ios a : ees eeepecsererrecoosenen= 8 BEST QUALITY! REASONABLE _ PRICES ~ ane } REFLEX CAMERA. - - OCTOBER, 1909. [Part 2. ( : Nh <7 |S r > of Native Birds. <.-— 2 @ « LONDON AGENT: R. H. PORTER, 7 PRINCES STREET, CAVENDISH SQUARE, W. 1909. : ts aM Gta i dy 7 oS 7? ; one i ‘ ; be Shree RET ik eae $3 a : 4 % + * a ZONE ah eg as a a * - > en at A CONTENTS - OCTOBER. 1909. — (The author of each article is responsible for the facts recorded therein, and any deductions he may draw.) a ON THE BIRDS OF NORTH-WEST AUSTRALIA. By Gregory M. es Mathews, FILS): BZ, 5) MPO Urge ES Re a es THE BIRDS OF THE ALEXANDRA DISTRICT, NORTHERN TERRI- 20 TORY. By Gregory M. Mathews, F.L.S., F.Z.S.. M.B.O.U. - een DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SHRIKE-ROBIN. Sy D. Le Souéys, 1 ee CMOS. &c. - - - - = = Ls > a E me, BIRDS OBSERVED BETWEEN KALGOORLIE AND EUCLA, W.A. Sy Chas. G. Gibson, Perth (W.A.) - - - - : = : Notes oN Ducks. By Robert Hall, C.M.Z.S., Col. Mem. B.C.U. BIRD NOTES FROM CLEVELAND, TASMANIA. By (Miss) J. A. Fletcher. Part JI. . - - - AE “ Pe re VARIATION IN TRICHOGLOSSUS, VIG. AND Hors. By Robert Hall, : CHE Z.S., Col. Mem BIO. TEs * - : a See BIRDS SEEN AT CUMMININ STATION, WESTERN AUSTRALIA. By Alan Fairfax Crossman, F.L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. - - - her i THE WHITE OOLOGICAL Coutection. ae D. Le ae Oi ZS: eae &=c., Melbourne - - 3 z ws Age Bias TO THE “ HANDLIST OF THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALASIA.” ° _ By Gregory M. Mathews. F.L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.0.U. - - : STRAY FEATHERS.—Fairy Martin, 92; Penguin Astray, 92; Wood-Swallows as Br, Honey-eaters, ¢3; Foxes v. Birds, 93; Warty-faced Honey-eaters and Friar-Birds, [ie 93; Migration Queries, 94; Red-browed Tree-creeper, 94; Cleveland (Tasmania) ae 4 Notes, 95; Notes on the Black-tailed Native-Hen, 95 ; Ground-Parrakeet, 69; ; Eggs : of Ninox ocellata, 107. FORGOTTEN FEATHERS. 5d hag il M. aeartee se og eel M.B.OU. - - - - FRoM M AGAZINES, &C.— Visit to Australia, 98 ; Flight of Australian Mutton-Birds in the North Pacific, 98 ; The Citing of ‘‘ Authorities’ 99 ; Bird-Migration, 99; “A Journey to British New Guinea in Search of Birds of Paradise,” ror. REVIEW 5 = bs = £ iS as = 4! a i 3 DESCRIPTION OF NEST AND EGGS OF WHITE-BELLIED THICK- HEAD. By Sid. W. Jackson, A.O.U. . - - - - Petey CORRESPONDENCE ©. oo )00'=) SU eee ei iee be e ||. “Notes AND NOTICES i's ERNIE Sik ceget Jagr a eS aie to ee ae } ANNOUNCEMENTS. . re Articles (technical papers should if possible be type-written) and fas ; communications intended for publication, also books and publications for — eer notice, should be addressed to the Editors, Zhe Emu, c/o MR. A. je CAMPBELL, Custom-House, Melbourne. MSS. of general articles should reach the editors at least six weeks ¢ prior to the issue of the number for which they are intended. Occasionally, when funds permit, it is intended to issue Coloured Plates of hitherto unfigured Australian Birds. Voluntary subscriptions to’ a “COLOURED FIGURE FUND.” are courteously invited from members. The price of The Emu to non-members is 4/= per copy. Extra — B is copies may be had by members at half-price. é $ c i ara wiley 4 aot sl " AE : - , - . Mgt set oes priate vobobel eae SA ea nell fered: ae via 4 Sint Ai Rn Sane bg Tend oe wtb ee 2 BE. i eee ee WUE) Viol. xX. PLATE III. Eopsaltria jacksont (Le Souet). About Half Natural Size. (From drawing by Exviis Rowan.) ENGRAVED BY PATTERSON, SHUGG & CO., MELBOURNE AND SYDNEY PRINTED BY D. W. PATERSON CO., MELBOURNE. The Emu Official Organ of the Australasian Ornithologists’ Anion. “ Birds of a feather.” Vot. IX.] Ist’ OCTOBER, 1909. [Part 2, On the Birds of North-West Australia. By GREGORY M. MATHEws, F.L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. With Field Notes by the Collector, J. P. RoGerrs. PART II.—BIRDS. FROM WYNDHAM (contznued ). SYNCCUS SORDIDUS (Sombre Brown Quail). Mathews, Handl. B. Austr., No. 12. Female. 22/1/09. Bill leaden-blue; culmen brown; eyes red; feet and tarsi yellow. The stomach contained some green seeds and grit. The crop contained green leaves and seeds. TURNIX MACULOSA (Red-backed Quail). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 15. Male and female. January, 19009. Bill yellow, distal | brown; eyes of male white, female greyish- brown ; feet and tarsi dull yellow. The stomach contained fragments of insects, seeds, and grit. TURNIX PYRRHOTHORAX (Red-chested Quail). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 20. Male and two females. 4/2/09. Bill blue-grey, culmen brown; eyes yellowish-white ; feet and tarsi fleshy-white. TURNIX VELOX (Little Quail). Math., Handl, B. Austr., No. 21. Male. 4/2/09. Culmen brown, remainder of bill greyish-white; eyes yellowish- white ; feet and tarsi fleshy-white. The stomach contained grass seeds and a little grit. GEOPELIA HUMERALIS (Barred-shouldered Dove). Math. Handl. B. Austr., No. 33. Male. 10/2/09. Bill blue-grey, tip whitish; eyes yellow; feet and _ tarsi pink-red. The stomach contained small seeds and grit. 54 MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. ise {ist Oct. LOPHOPHAPS PLUMIFERA (Plumed-Pigeon). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 45. Male and female. 2/2/00. Bill black ; eyes yellow, naked skin red; feet and tarsi dark purple. The stomach contained seeds and grit, and the crop seeds. These birds resemble birds from the M‘Donnell Ranges in Central Australia in my collection. POLIOLIMNAS CINEREUS (White-browed Crake). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 56. Four males. 16/1/09. Bill olive-brown ; base red; eyes red; eyelashes red; feet and legs olive-brown. The stomach contained fragments of insects, caterpillars, and seeds. PORPHYRIO BELLUS (Blue Bald-Coot). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 61. Male and female. 28/12/08. Bill and frontal plate red; eyes reddish; feet and legs dusky-red. The stomach contained some blades of grass, green leaves, and grit. PODICIPES NOVA:'-HOLLANDI& (Black-throated Grebe). Math., Handl, B. Austr., No. 65. Female. 16/1/09. Bill black, tip white ; skin and corner of mouth yellow, washed with green; eyes yellowish-brown; feet and tarsi olive-brown. The stomach contained fragments of insects and some small shell-fish. , HYDROCHELIDON HYBRIDA (Marsh Tern). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 119. Male and female. 10/2/09. Bill dusky-red; base of upper mandible black, tinged with red, in male; upper mandible dusky-red, lower red, in female ; eyes blackish-brown ; feet and legs red. The stomach of female contained a frog; that of the male some large tadpoles, almost fully developed, and frogs, swallowed whole. ERYTHROGONYS CINCTUS (Red-kneed Dottrel). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 146. Five males and one female. January, 19009. Bill—-tip and culmen and base of upper mandible black, the remainder red; eyes brown; feet and tarsi leaden-blue, tinged with red; knees and tibiz red. The stomach contained fragments of insects and some grit. | MaTHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 55 OCHTHODROMUS VEREDUS (Oriental Dottrel). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 155. Female. 3/12/08. Bill brown, base of lower mandible grey; eyes blackish- brown ; feet brown; legs fleshy-white. The stomach contained fragments of insects. HIMANTOPUS LEUCOCEPHALUS (White-headed Stilt). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 161. Adult male and female and two immature males. 18/1/09. Bill black in adult; in immature the base of lower mandible is tinged with red ; eyes red; feet and legs pinky-red. The stomach contained shell-fish, small, hard seeds, and insects. MESOSCOLOPAX MINUTUS (Little Whimbrel). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 166. Male and female. 7/12/08. Bill—basal 3 of lower mandible flesh-colour, the remainder blackish-brown ; eyes blackish-brown; feet and tarsi leaden- grey. The stomach contained fragments and grit. GLOTTIS NEBULARIUS (Greenshank). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 175. Male. 13/2/09. Bill leaden-grey, distal half brown; eyes brown; feet and legs leaden-grey. The stomach contained grasshoppers. RHYACOPHILUS GLAREOLA (Wood-Sandpiper). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 176. Three females. January and February, 19009. Bill brown, base of lower mandible greyish-brown; eyes brown ; feet and legs light olive-brown. The stomach contained shell-fish, grasshoppers, and a quantity of animal matter. HETEROPYGIA AURITA (Sharp-tailed Stint). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 181. Five males and seven females. January and February, 1909. Bill brown, base of lower mandible olive-brown ; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi olive-brown. The stomach contained fragments of small insects, seeds. sand, and small shell-fish. GALLINAGO AUSTRALIS (Snipe). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 185. Two males and six females. January, 1909. Bill brown, basal half of culmen and base of lower mandible 56 MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. Beg pale brown; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi pale greyish- brown. The stomach contained water-beetles and earthworms. HYDRALECTOR GALLINACEUS (Comb-crested Jacana). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 187. Three males and three females. January, 1909. Bill—tip brown, distal half black, base of lower mandible pale yellow, base of upper mandible and comb pale red ; eyes pale yellow, eyelashes blue ; feet and legs olive-brown. The stomach contained fragments of insects and sand. The females are very much larger than the males. GLAREOLA ORIENTALIS (Oriental Pratincole). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 189. Three females. 22/1/09. Bill blackish-brown, basal half of tomium and corner of mouth red; eyes dark brown ; feet and tarsi brown. The stomach contained fragments of grasshoppers. BURHINUS GRALLARIUS (Stone-Plover). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 190. Immature male. 19/12/08. Bill blackish-brown ; eyes mottled yellow and brown; feet leaden-brown ; legs grey. The stomach contained cockchafer and other beetles. NOTOPHOYX FLAVIROSTRIS (Pied Egret). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 206. Male and female. 30/12/08. Bill yellow ; lores mealy-brown ; eyes yellow, feet and legs yellow. The stomach contained a few grasshoppers, water insects, and grit. DUPETOR GOULDI (Yellow-necked Mangrove-Bittern). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 214. Male. 17/11/08. Culmen black, balance of upper mandible brown, lower mandible and lores light brown ; eyes reddish-brown ; feet and tarsi brown. The stomach contained a few fish. FALCO HYPOLEUCUS (Grey Falcon). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 275. Adult male. 5/12/08. Bill blue-grey, tip of lower and distal half of upper mandible leaden-brown ; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi bright yellow. The stomach contained a few fragments and bones of birds. / ae) MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 57 FALCO LUNULATUS (Little Falcon). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 277. Female. 10/2/09. Bill blue-grey, tip blackish-brown ; eyes dark brown, orbits blue-grey ; feet and tarsi pale yellow. The stomach contained a quantity of feathers and bones, also fragments of insects. NINOX OCELLATA (Marbled Owl). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 285. Two females. 17/2/09. Bill and cere blue-grey, base of culmen and base of lower mandible yellow; eyes yellow; feet blue-grey. The stomach contained fragments of grasshoppers, dragon- flies, and beetles. TRICHOGLOSSUS RUBRITORQUES (Red-collared Lorikeet). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 303. Two males. 5/12/08. Bill red ; eyes reddish-brown ; feet and tarsi olive-brown. The stomach contained some honey and fragments of flowers. CACATUA GYMNOPIS (Bare-eyed Cockatoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 322. Female. 23/11/08. Bill greyish-white ; eyes brown, bare skin leaden-blue ; feet and tarsi brown. Stomach contained some small stones, but no food. I have compared this bird with the type at the Bates Museum. PTISTES COCCINEOPTERUS (Crimson-winged Lory). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 331A. Adult and immature males. 21/11/08. Bill red, tip of upper and all lower mandible very light red ; eyes brown in young, light red in adult ; feet and tarsi leaden- brown. The stomach contained fragments and the crop whole seeds of a small berry. AZGOTHELES RUFA (Rufous Owlet-Nightjar). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 380. Female. 18/1/09. Bill brown, lower mandible greyish-white; eyes reddish- brown ; feet and tarsi yellowish-white. The stomach contained fragments of beetles. This specimen is a little redder than the bird obtained at Alexandra, which was a male. 58 MatTHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. eae EURYSTOMUS PACIFICUS (Dollar-Bird),. Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 381. Female. 16/1/09. Bill red, tip of culmen black ; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi red. The stomach contained some very strong-smelling plant-bugs. HALCYON PYRRHOPYGIUS (Red-backed Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 390. Adult female and two immature males and one female 17/12/08. Bill black, base of lower mandible white ; eyes brown; feet and tarsi leaden-brown. The three young are from the same nest, and the adult female was the parent. The stomach of the adult contained fragments of insects ; that of one of the young a large grasshopper. HALCYON SANCTUS (Sacred Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 391. Male and four females. 12/12/08. Bill black, base of lower mandible whitish; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi leaden-brown. The stomach contained fragments of grasshoppers. MEROPS ORNATUS (Bee-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 396. Three males and one female. 2/12/08. Bill black; eyes red; feet and tarsi brown. The stomach contained fragments of insects. CUCULUS INORNATUS (Pallid Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 405. Two adult males and two immature females. January, 1909. Bill brown, basal half of lower mandible olive-brown, corner of mouth orange ; eyes pale brown, eyelashes yellow ; feet and tarsi olive-brown. The stomach contained green caterpillars. - CACOMANTIS FLABELLIFORMIS (Square-tailed (Brush) Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 407. Two males. 17/11/08. Bill brown, with base of lower mandible olive-brown; eyes brown, with ring of dusky-white on outer edge ; feet and tarsi olive-brown. The stomach contained hairy caterpillars. MESOCALIUS PALLIOLATUS (Black-eared Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 409. Male and female. 17/11/09. sla | MatHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 59 Bill black, base of lower mandible brown ; eyes brown; feet and tarsi leaden-grey. The stomach contained fragments of red fruit-bugs and hairy caterpillars. CHALCOCOCCYX BASALIS (Narrow-billed Bronze-Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 410. Three males. 12/12/08. Bill blackish-brown, base of lower mandible light brown ; eyes light brown ; feet and tarsi leaden-brown. The stomach contained fragments of insects. CHALCOCOCCYX MALAYANUS (Little Bronze-Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 413. Two males. 17/12/08. Bill black, base of lower mandible leaden-blue; eyes red, eyelid red ; feet and tarsi leaden-brown. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. I have compared these birds with Gould’s type of C. mznutzllus, but find them more barred than that bird. EUDYNAMIS CYANOCEPHALA (Koel). Math. Handl. B. Austr., No. 415. Female. 23/11/08. Bill—base and culmen brown, remainder olive-grey ; eyes red ; feet and tarsi leaden-brown. The stomach contained several large green berries. MICR@CA PALLIDA (Pale Flycatcher). Math. Handl. B. Austr., No. 435. Six adult males and four females. January and February, 1909. Threeimmature. 26/1/09. Bill brown, base of lower mandible greyish-brown; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi brown. The stomach contained fragments of beetles and insects. SMICRORNIS FLAVESCENS (Yellow-tinted Tree-Tit). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 450. Two males and one female. 17/2/09. Bill very pale brown; eyes yellowish-white; feet and tarsi pale brown. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. GERYGONE CINERASCENS (Grey Fly-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 452. Three males and two females. 21/1/09. . Bill blackish-brown; eyes red; feet and tarsi leaden-grey. The stomach contained fragments of insects. 60 MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. eee PGCILODRYAS CERVINIVENTRIS (Buff-sided Robin). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 469. Three adult males and three females and immature female. Shot on 18/12/08. Bill black ; eyes brown; feet leaden-brown. The stomach contained fragments of green caterpillars, insects, and green tree-ants. RHIPIDURA ISURA (Northern Fantail). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 486. One immature bird, with the spots on the breast quite dis- tinct. 26/1/00. Bill blackish-brown, with base of lower mandible light brown ; eyes brown ; feet and legs dull black. The stomach contained fragments of insects. RHIPIDURA TRICOLOR (Black-and-White Fantail). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 487. Two males and two females. A pair shot together on 26/12/08, the others on 26/11/08. Bill black ; eyes brown; feet black. The stomach contained fragments of crickets and beetles. SISURA NANA (Little Flycatcher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 494. Male and female. 12/12/08. Bill leaden-blue ; eyes dark brown; feet and tarsi blackish- brown. The stomach contained fragments of wasps. CORACINA ROBUSTA (Black-faced Cuckoo-Shrike). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 504. One adult and one immature male. 17/12/08. Bill black ; eyes dark blackish-brown ; feet and tarsi black. The stomach of the immature bird contained one small lizard and fragments of grasshoppers. CORACINA HYPOLEUCA (White-bellied Cuckoo-Shrike). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 506. Male and female. 25/1/00. Bill black ; eyes brown; feet and tarsi black. The stomach contained fragments of insects. LALAGE TRICOLOR (White-shouldered Caterpillar-eater), Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 510. Two adult males and one female and one immature male. 29/12/08. . Bill black in male, brown with base of lower mandible pale Vol. IX. 1909 Matuews, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 61 yellow in female; eyes brown; feet and tarsi black in male ; feet blue, tarsi olive-brown in female. The stomach contained flies and other insects. CISTICOLA EXILIS (Grass-Warbler). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 552. Seven males. December, 1908. Bill—upper mandible brown, lower fleshy-white ; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi yellowish-white. The stomach contained fragments of insects. These birds are the C7stécola ruficeps of Gould. MALURUS CRUENTATUS (Red-backed Wren). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 608. Four males and two females. January, 1909. Bill brownish-black to brown ; eyes brown ; feet brown. The four males are in the change of plumage. The stomach contained fragments of insects. ARTAMUS LEUCOGASTER (White-rumped Wood-Swallow). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 624. Five adult males and two females and immature male and female. All shot on 2/2/09. Bill blue, tip black; eyes dark brown; feet leaden-brown. Immature : Bill—distal half blackish-brown, the remainder and corner of mouth whitish ; eyes brown ; feet and legs blue-grey. ARTAMUS CINEREUS (Grey-breasted Wood-Swallow). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 629. Two adult males, one female, and one immature male. 26/12/08. Bill blue-grey, tip black ; eyes brown; feet dark leaden-blue. Immature—Bill brown, cutting edges and corner of mouth yellow ; eyes dull brown ; feet brown. The stomach of the young bird contained fragments of soft- bodied insects and pieces of egg-shell. The adults had been feeding on insects. GRALLINA PICATA (Magpie-Lark). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 646. Adult male and female and their three female offspring. 7/2/09 Adult male. 16/11/08. Bill whitish, culmen brown; eyes yellow in adult, brown in young ; feet and legs brown. The stomach contained caterpillars and fragments of insects. PACHYCEPHALA FALCATA (Northern Thickhead). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 672. Eight adult males and two females and two immature males. 14/12/08. 62 MaTHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. gee Two of these males are very similar to P. rufiventris, having the black extending right to the bill and the breast very red. Bill black in male, reddish-brown in female; eyes reddish- brown ; feet and tarsi olive-brown. The stomach contained fragments of insects. NEOSITTA LEUCOPTERA (White-winged Tree-runner). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 699. Male. 21/1/09. Bill yellow, tip black; eyes and eyelashes yellow; feet and tarsi yellow. The stomach contained fragments of insects. DIC4UM HIRUNDINACEUM (Flower-pecker or Mistletoe-Bird). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 722. Male. 15/12/08. Bill black ; eyes blackish-brown ; feet and tarsi black. The stomach contained a few mistletoe berries. PARDALOTUS RUBRICATUS (Red-browed Pardalote). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 728. Four adult males and two females and two immature males and two females. January and February, 1909. Bill whitish, culmen brown; eyes yellow; feet and tarsi leaden-grey. The stomach contained fragments of soft-bodied insects. PARDALOTUS UROPYGIALIS (Chesnut-rumped Pardalote). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 730. Three females. 21/1/08. Bill brown, base of upper and all lower mandible white; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi leaden-grey. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. MELITHREPTUS ALBIGULARIS (White-throated Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 734. Two males. 26/11/08. Bill black ; eyes reddish-brown ; feet and tarsi pale brown. The stomach contained fragments of soft-bodied insects. MELITHREPTUS LA:TIOR (Golden-backed Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 738. Two males and two females. February, 1909. Bill black ; eyes brown, skin over the eye green washed with yellow ; feet yellow ; tarsi pale yellow. The stomach contained fragments of small insects. CONOPOPHILA RUFIGULARIS (Red-throated Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 762. Immature male and female. February, 1900. ie aa MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 63 Bill brown, base of lower mandible grey ; eyes grey; feet and tarsi leaden-blue. The stomach contained fragments of beetles. These birds are just getting the brown throat. PTILOTIS SONORA (Singing Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 772. Three males and two females. November and December, 1908. Bill black ; corner of mouth yellow; eyes brown; feet and tarsi dark leaden-blue. The stomach contained fragments of insects and skins of berries. PTILOTIS PLUMULA (Yellow-fronted Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 787. r Female. 24/11/08. Bill blackish-brown ; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi pale brown. The stomach contained fragments of very small insects. PTILOTIS UNICOLOR (White-gaped Honey-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 795. One adult. 8/2/09. Bill blackish-brown ; eyes grey ; feet and tarsi leaden-blue. The stomach contained one spider and some black berries. PHILEMON CITREIGULARIS (Yellow-throated Friar-Bird). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 819. Two adults. 19/1/08. Bill black ; sides of head leaden-blue ; eyes brown; feet and tarsi leaden-brown. The stomach contained: fig seeds and fragments of insects. MIRAFRA SECUNDA (Lesser Bush-Lark). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 824. Male and two females. 15/2/09. Bill—upper mandible brown, lower dirty white, corner of mouth yellow ; eyes brown; feet and tarsi pale brown. The stomach contained caterpillars and fragments of beetles. STICTOPTERA ANNULOSA (Black-ringed Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 833. Two males and two females. 15/12/08. Bill leaden-blue ; eyes red ; feet and tarsi leaden-blue. The stomach contained small seeds and grit. MUNIA FLAVIPRYMNA (Yellow-rumped Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 835. Adult male. 11/2/09. Bill blue-grey ; eyes blackish-brown; feet and tarsi dark leaden-blue. 64 MatTHEws, On the Birds of North-West Australia. Emu 1st Oct. The stomach and crop were full of seeds; stomach contained a quantity of grit as well. MUNIA PECTORALIS (White-breasted Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 836. , Two adult males and two females and two immature females. 21/11/08. Bill leaden-blue ; eyes dark brown; feet pale brown. The immature birds have just a few of the white-tipped feathers on the breast visible. The stomach contained seeds. BATHILDA RUFICAUDA (Red-faced Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 839. Male and female. 2/2/09. Bill red ; eyes light red; feet yellow. The male has the red extending back well over the forehead. The stomach contained seed and grit. POEPHILA ACUTICAUDA (Long-tailed Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 841. Three males. 29/12/08. Bill yellow ; eyes reddish-brown ; feet red. The stomach contained seeds, grit, and fragments of insects. POEPHILA PERSONATA (Masked Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 844. Two males. 29/12/08. Bill yellow ; eyes red ; feet and tarsi red. The stomachs contained seeds and fragments of insects, the crop several small caterpillars. POEPHILA GOULDI# (Gouldian Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 846. Adult male and immature female. 29/12/08. Bill—tip and tomium red, the remainder reddish-white ; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi yellow. The stomach contained a quantity of grass seeds and grit. NEOCHMIA PHAETON (Crimson Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 849. Male and female. 15/12/08. Bill red ; eyes light brown ; feet brown ; tarsi yellow. The stomach contained seeds and grit. ORIOLUS FLAVICINCTUS (Yellow Oriole). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 851. Two males and one female. 2/12/08. Bill fleshy-brown ; eyes red ; feet and tarsi leaden-blue. The stomach contained seeds of figs and large caterpillars. es MATHEWS, On the Birds of North-West Australia. 65 CHLAMYDODERA NUCHALIS (Great Bower-Bjfd). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 863. Male and female. 2/12/08. Bill brown ; eyes brown ; feet and tarsi olive-brown. The stomach of female contained berries and fragments of insects ; that of the male one large spider. The Birds of the Alexandra District, Northern Territory.* By GREGORY M. MATHEWS, F.L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. THE birds in the following pages were collected by Mr. W. Stalker for Sir William Ingram, of London. Part I. has already appeared in Zhe /bzs. The Ingram collection has now passed into my hands. The present lot of birds was got at the same time as the others, but, owing to their being overlooked for a year, and then no team going from Alexandra for another year, they have only just reached me. Mr. Stalker told me he thought there was a new Spoonbill, something like Platalea regza, but the colour of the face was different. As he has not put this colour on the label, I must await his return from New Guinea for further particulars. The following is a list of the birds secured :— I. FULICA AUSTRALIS (Coot). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 64. Male. 10/3/00. Eyes brick-red ; bill pale bluish-grey ; feet steel-grey. Native name, “ Hago-rag-a-rand.” 2. HYDROCHELIDON HYBRIDA (Marsh Tern). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 119. One male and one of doubtful sex. 26/1/06. Eyes brown ; feet bright red ; bill reddish-purple. Native name, “ Eerin-gerena.” 3. ERYTHROGONYS CINCTUS (Red-kneed Dottrel). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 146. Male and female. 2/2/06. Eyes brown ; feet black; bill bright red, with the tip black. These were a pair. 4. LOBIVANELLUS MILES (Masked Plover). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 148. Four females. 7/3/06. Eyes yellow ; feet bright red ; bill yellow to grey. Native name, “ Dardango.” * Cf. Lbis, 1907, pp. 387-415. Emu 66 MaTtHEws, Birds of the Alexandra Distvict, N.T. Bays 5. AZGIALITIS MELANOPS (Black-fronted Dottrel). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 158. Two males and two females. One pair from the Upper Play- ford River, 17/3/06; another pair from Alexandra, 7/2/06. Eyes brown; eyelid bright scarlet ; feet cream; bill orange, with tip black. [At a distance of 15 to 20 yards these birds are almost invisible against the mud.] 6. RECURVIROSTRA NOV/i-HOLLANDI& (Red-necked Avocet). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 163. Male and female. 1/2/06. Eyes dark red; feet bluish ; bill black. 7, ROSTRATULA AUSTRALIS (Painted Snipe). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 186. Female. Brunnett Creek, 2/4/06. Eyes hazel; feet blue-grey ; bill yellow-brown. Shot on the edge of a rocky waterhole. 8. ANTIGONE AUSTRALASIANA (Native Companion). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 193. Female. January, 1906. This bird shows signs of having been sitting for some time. g. CARPHIBIS SPINICOLLIS (Straw-necked Ibis). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 195. Male. Buchanan River, 9/5/06. Eyes brown ; feet pink ; bill black. Lives on water-snails, crabs, &c. 10. PLEGADIS FALCINELLUS (Glossy Ibis). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 196. Immature male. Buchanan River, 7/3/06. Eyes brown ; feet black ; bill black. Native name, “ Cabalan.” II. PLATALEA REGIA (Black-billed Spoonbill). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 197. Male. 26/1/06. Eyes red-gold ; feet and bill black. Native name, “ Narigodinga.” Male and female. 29/6/06. Eyes brown ; feet and bill black. Male. 9/7/06. Eyes dark red; feet and bill black. These birds were feeding on small beetles, and had immature cattle ticks on their heads. ee Matuews, Birds of the Alexandra District, N.T. 67 12. NOTOPHOYX NOV4A:-HOLLANDI# (White-fronted Heron). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 204. Male and female. 3/2/06. Eyes pale yellow-grey ; feet pale yellow ; bill black. 13. NOTOPHOYX PACIFICA (White-necked Heron). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 205. Male. 21/7/06. Eyes pale yellow ; feet dark olive; bill black; in front of and above the eye pale green-yellow. 14. NYCTICORAX CALEDONICUS (Night-Heron). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 210. Immature male. 16/6/06. Eyes bright lemon-yellow ; feet pale green; bill black above, greenish-yellow below. [Food, small crabs. This and other water birds were all very poor in condition about this time.] 15. ASTUR FASCIATUS (Goshawk). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 258. Immature male. February, 1906. Eyes pale yellow ; feet dark-brown ; bill bluish-brown. 16. UROAETUS AUDAX (Wedge-tailed Eagle). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 262. Male. 30/6/00. Eyes yellowish-brown ; feet whitish; bill grey, to blue at tip. 17. MILVUS AFFINIS (Kite). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 268. Male. 28/6/06. Eyes golden-yellow ; feet bright yellow ; bill dark blue. 18. HIERACIDEA ORIENTALIS (Brown Hawk). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 279. Female. 3/4/06. Eyes dark brown; feet whitish ; bill dark indigo. Immature female. February, 1906. Eyes blue; feet bright blue, legs grey ; bill blue-grey. 19. CALYPTORHYNCHUS MACRORHYNCHUS (Great-billed Cocka- too). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 316. Male. Upper Playford River, 19/3/06. Female. Alexandra Springs. February, 1906. Feet black ; bill grey-blue. [Native name, “Gundina.” These birds come over in flocks of from three to twelve after rain.] 68 MatuHews, Birds of the Alexandra District, N.T. Rs 20. PODARGUS PHALAINOIDES (Freckled Frogmouth). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No, 377. Male. March, 1906. 21. HALCYON PYRRHOPYGIUS (Red-backed Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 390. Female. 30/4/06. Eyes brown ; feet black ; bill black, with base of lower man- dible grey. 22. HALCYON SANCTUS (Sacred Kingfisher). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 391. Male. 2/2/06. Eyes brown ; feet black ; bill black, with base of lower man- dible cream. 23. MEROPS ORNATUS (Bee-eater). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 396. Male. Cliff Creek, 29/3/06. Eyes scarlet ; feet and bill black. 24. CUCULUS INORNATUS (Pallid Cuckoo). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 405. Male. Upper Playford River, 17/3/06. Eyes brown; feet grey ; bill dark olive. [Native name, “ Ono-lo.”| 25. PETRG@CA PICATA (Pied Robin). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 447. One adult and one immature male. February, 1906. 26. PTEROPODOCYS PHASIANELLA (Ground Cuckoo-Shrike). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 503. Male. 10/5/06. Eyes pale yellow ; feet blackish-grey ; bill black. [This bird was feeding on grasshoppers. Native name, “ Mar-ow-wa.” 27. POMATOSTOMUS RUBECULUS (Red-breasted Babbler). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 532. Female. Upper Playford River, 23/3/06. Eyes pale yellow ; feet black ; bill black, culmen grey. 28. ARTAMUS FLORENCI&. Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 632. Two males. March, 1906. Eyes brown ; feet grey ; bill bluish-horn, tip black. 29. ARTAMUS MINOR (Little Wood-Swallow). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 635. Immature female. February, 1906. a MatueEws, Birds of the Alexandra District, N.T. 69 30. GYMNORHINA TIBICEN (Black-backed Magpie). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 647. Female. 30/4/06. Eyes hazel; feet dark blue; bill blue-grey, tip darker. 31. CRACTICUS PICATUS (Pied Butcher-Bird). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 655. Male. Upper Playford River, 17/3/06. Eyes brown ; feet dark grey ; bill pale grey-blue, tip black. 32. PACHYCEPHALA RUFIVENTRIS (Rufous-breasted Thickhead). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 674. Sex ?. 26/1/06. Eyes brown; feet and bill black. [Native name, “ Doing-go.” 33. CLIMACTERIS MELANURA (Black-tailed Tree-creeper). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 701. Female. Cliff Creek, 28/3/06. Eyes brown ; bill and feet black. [These birds feed on a species of small black ant, catching them on the trees. | 34. DICHUM HIRUNDINACEUM (Mistletoe-Bird). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 722. Male. 8/5/06. Eyes brown; feet black; bill black. [This bird was feeding on mistletoe fruit. The intestines were short and large, apparently to allow for the passage of the large seed, which retains much of the sticky covering. Native name, “ Chi-chi.” ] 35. MUNIA PECTORALIS (White-breasted Finch). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 836. Male. Bore Creek, February, 1906. Feet brown; bill dark blue. 36. CORVUS BENNETTI (Small-billed Crow). Math., Handl. B. Austr., No. 873. Male. November, 1905. Eyes white; feet and bill black. THE BRITISH ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION.—The latest Aus- tralian to join this venerable ornithologists’ association is Mr. H. L. White, Belltrees, Scone (N.S.W.) GROUND-PARRAKEET (Pezoporus formosus).—This rare bird has lately been noted at Lake Connewarre, Jan Juc, and Shadwell Park, Victoria—A. J.C. 1/8/09. Emu 70 Le Sover, Description of a New Shvike-Robin. vee Gees Description of a New Shrike-Robin. By D. LE SOUEF, C.M.Z.S., &c., MELBOURNE. EOPSALTRIA JACKSONI, sf. nov. Adult Male.—Total length, 5.5 to 5.7 inches; wing, 3.45 to 3.5; tail, 2.5 to 2.7; bill, 0.5. General colour above uniform dark olive-grey ; rump and upper tail coverts rich golden-yellow, with the lower portions of the feathers just above washed with a yellow tinge; all under parts golden-yellow; throat white; a little dark shading in front of the eye; a narrow patch on the outer edge of the shoulder white; the outer edge of the upper portion of the primaries very slightly edged with grey, and the tips of the secondaries also finely edged, mostly on the outer edge, with light grey. On the under surface the base of the primaries is well marked with white, as well as a white patch on the under surface of the shoulder, separated by a dark band from the white on the under surface at the base of the secondaries. Tail dark olive-grey above, lighter shade below, the tips, except of the centre feather, being edged with white on their inner edges ; in some specimens the white tips are absent from four of the centre feathers ; bill and feet black. Mr. R. Etheridge, Curator of the Australian Museum, Sydney, kindly allowed me to compare my skins with Ramsay’s type of E. magnirostris in the Museum ; I did so in his presence, and also in that of Mr. A. F. Basset Hull. This bird differs from the type of E. magnirostris, obtained at Rockingham Bay, Queensland, in having a smaller beak, more white on the throat, and more yellow on the rump, the white on the shoulder not so distinct, primaries not tipped with ashy-white or nearly so distinctly edged with the same colour. The nest also varies, and the habitat of the bird is different, Z. chrysorrhous being a scrub-loving bird and £&. jacksonz being only found in open forest and scrub country at an elevation of between 3,000 and 5,000 feet. The bird is named after Mr. Sid. W. Jackson, who obtained the specimens for Mr. H. L. White, of Belltrees, Scone, N.S.W. I append Mr. Jackson’s field notes :— : “T first met with this Robin on 12th November, 1908, when travelling along the Herberton Range on my way to the Evelyn scrubs, and at an elevation of nearly 4,000 feet above sea level. The actions of this bird closely resembled those of E. chrysorrhous. Its home appears to be the true forest country, and not the dense scrubs. When flying the rich golden-yellow plumage on the rump is most conspicuous. When passing the face of a rocky mountain on the Herberton Range, I found a nest of this bird, close to the track; it was built on the horizontal limb of a rough-barked Baxksza tree, at an elevation of 15 feet, and contained two young birds about three days old. eo | LE SouEF, Description of a New Shrike-Robin. 7x The nest was well made, but seemed smaller than that of E. chrysorrhous. At this part of the range the country was very open and dry, and at the same time exceedingly stony, and partly covered with heath and stunted timber, such as Eucalyptus, Banksia, Casuarina, Melaleuca, &c. These Robins appeared to be the only birds frequenting this particular part of the range. Driving on, I saw a pair of these birds feeding two young ones that had evidently just left the nest. Shortly after I found another nest, placed about 30 feet from the ground in the upright fork of a Casuarina, and it also contained two young birds. During my second visit to the Herberton Range, extending from 29th November to_ Ist December of the same year, I saw these birds again, but only in the open forest. I was fortunate in finding a nest containing two eggs on gth December, the nest being situated in a Casuarina tree, about 20 feet from the ground, and within 6 feet of the nest of a Victoria Rifle-Bird. This nest and eggs were described in The Emu, viii. (June, 1909), pp. 284, 285, as belonging to /. magnirostris. I never heard the birds utter any note during my wanderings among them.” [I am indebted to my cousin, Mrs. Ellis Rowan, for the original painting of this new species. See Coloured Plate II1I.— DLE S:| Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla, W.A. By CuHas. G. GIBSON, PERTH (W.A.) IN order that these notes may be the better understood, a very brief general description of the country lying between Kalgoorlie and the South Australian border is necessary. The total direct distance between these two points is approximately 450 miles, and for our purpose this may be roughly subdivided as follows : —For the first 80 miles (from Kalgoorlie) the country consists of salmon-barked gum (Zucalyptus salmonophlota) and gimlet sum (E. salubris) forests, with occasional open salt-plains and blue bush plains, and here and there small patches of mulga (Acacia), this latter class of timber gradually replacing the salmon-barked gum and gimlet gum as we go north. East of the salmon-barked gum is a belt of spinifex country, roughly a hundred miles in width. This runs south to the coast and north indefinitely, rapidly widening in this direction ; it is usually covered with a fairly dense growth of mallee—often of large size —with here and there small patches of salmon-barked and gimlet gums, with small salt and blue bush flats. The sand-hill country on the northern portion of this belt and around Queen Victoria Spring carries, in addition to the mallee, pines (Cad/ztr7s), a few wattles and desert white gums (Zucalyptus redunca?), these latter often of fair size. 72 Gipson, Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla. je East of the spinifex country, and extending right across into South Australia and southerly to the coast, lies the great Eucla limestone table-land. This for the greater part consists of open, treeless grass and blue bush plains, with only here and there small patches of stunted timber and brush. On its western edge —bordering on the spinifex and mallee belt—the limestone country is sparsely timbered with oaks (Casuzrzna), myall and mulga (acacias), whilst on the south, towards the coast, are fairly extensive belts of myoporum, this giving place nearer the sea- front to stunted mallee and the usual coastal brush. This oak, myall, mulga, and myoporum country, which fringes the great plains, is referred to in the notes as the “ semi-open ” country. The whole of the district between Kalgoorlie and the South Australian border is practically waterless ; there are a few small rock-holes, but these seldom last through the summer season, and the only really permanent surface water is in the dams and tanks along the main stock route near the coast and at such places as there is any settlement. In the following list every species, with the exception of those queried, was identified beyond dispute :— WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE (Uvoaétus audax ).—Odd specimens noted right across, but nowhere numerous. . LITTLE EAGLE (Visaétus morphnotdes)—Odd ones noted everywhere except on the open plains ; fairly common near the coast. KITE (Aiilvus affin’s)—Fairly common right through. SQUARE-TAILED KITE (Lophoictinia tsura).—Seen only occasionally. BROWN Hawk (Aieracidea orientalis).—Very common right through. STRIPED BROWN Hawk (dH. éerigora).—Occasionally seen ; not nearly as common as the preceding. SPARROW-HawkK (Accipiter cirrhocephalus). — Four or five specimens only noted ; these in the gum and giant mallee country. GOSHAWK (Astur approximans).—One or two only seen, in the timbered country. KESTREL (Cerchnets cenchrotdes).—Odd ones noted in the gum country and along the coastal cliffs ; a few also in the semi-open country. LITTLE FALCON (Falco /unulatus).—One specimen only (a female) obtained (or seen), near Queen Victoria Spring. Boospook OwL (ixox boob00k).—Fairly common, except in the open country. Ow. (Ninox connivens ?*).—Not identified ; seen occasionally at night on the plains. Their abodes are the caves and blow-holes in the limestone. Crow (Corvus coronoides)—Common everywhere until the plain country is reached ; here they are replaced by the Raven (Corome australis). RAVEN (Corone austral’s).—Fairly common on the plains and in the coastal districts westerly as far as Balladonia ; here both Crows and Ravens were identified, but this appears to be the latter’s western limit. LEADEN CROW-SHRIKE (Strepera plumbea).—Common in the timbered country, especially in the coastal districts ; not seen in the open country. Usually seen singly or in pairs, never together in numbers. * More likely to be a member of the genus St¢vzx, probably delzcatula.—Ebs. Vol. IX. . . an 1 Gipson, Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla. 73 BUFF-BELLIED SHRIKE-THRUSH (Collyriocincla rufiventris). — Fairly common in the mulga country, a few here and there in the giant mallee and semi-open country, common near the coast. BLACK-FACED CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Graucalus melanops).—F airly common right along. WHITE-BELLIED CUCKOO-SHRIKE (G. Aypoleucus ?)—One small flock (four) of birds was seen in the salmon-barked gum country, and was ascribed to this species. No specimen could be obtained.* WHITE-SHOULDERED CATERPILLAR-EATER (La/age (¢ricolor).—A few in the mulga country, odd ones in the semi-open country, common near the coast in the mallee and gums. LESSER BROWN FLYCATCHER (MJicreca assimélis).—Fairly common in the open mallee and gum country, especially towards the coast. RED-CAPPED ROBIN (Petre@ca goodenovi).— Common in the mulga ‘country, and also in the semi-open country and near the coast. Not found in the salmon-barked gum country. HOODED ROBIN (P. ézcolor).—Fairly common in the mulga and more open mallee country ; common in the semi-open country on the edge of the plains ; not found in the salmon-barked gum country. SHORT-BILLED TREE-TIT (S7zcrornis brevirostris).—V ery common in the salmon-barked gum and mallee country. BANDED WREN (4Jalurus splendens).—A few only in the mulga ; a rare bird in the interior districts. WHITE-WINGED WREN (1. /eucopterus).—Noticed at first only on the large salt-bush flats ; common later on the plains (in the blue bush). WESTERN FANTAIL (AAipidura preisst).—Only one was seen, in the mulga. BLACK-AND-WHITE FANTAIL (2. ¢rico/or).— Very rare at first ; a few seen later in the semi-open country and near the coast. RESTLESS FLYCATCHER (.S7sura tnguzeta).— Only one specimen seen, in the mallee country near the coast. LARGE-TAILED GRASS-WREN(Amydés macrura =A. gigantura, Milligan). —Odd ones noted here and there right through, chiefly amongst the blue bush GRASS-WREN (A. /extcl/7s).—A specimen was noted near Kalgoorlie, and was unidentified ; probably A. fexiz/is. BROAD-TAILED TIT (Acanthiza aficalis).—Fairly common, especially near the coast. Not found in the denser mallee country. THICK-BILLED TIT (4. vobustirostris).—A few noted in the mulga country only. CHESTNUT-RUMPED TIT (A. uropygialis):—Common, except in the dense mallee and gum country ; very common in the semi-open country. SLENDER-BILLED TIT (A. ¢enuzrostris).—A few were noted in the semi- open country. YELLOW-RUMPED TIT (A. chrysorrhoa).—A few only noted, mostly in the semi-open country. Dusky TIT (A. zvefsz).— One specimen latterly obtained at Kanowna, on being submitted to Mr. A. J. North for identification, proved to be this species. REDTHROAT (Sevzcornis brunnea).—Common in the mulga and brush thickets ; fairly common also amongst the blue bush in the plain country. * More probably G. mentalis.—EDs. Emu tst Oct. 74 ~ Grsson, Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla. SPOTTED SCRUB-WREN (S. maculata)—Very common in the coastal brush-covered sand-hills ; not found inland. CHESTNUT-BACKED GROUND-BIRD (Cinclosoma castanonotum).—A few noted at first ; none seen after a line 70 miles east of Kalgoorlie. CINNAMON GROUND-BIRD (C. cémnamomeum).—Very common on the open plain country only—z.e., the Nularbor Plains. RUFOUS-RUMPED GROUND-WREN (//y/acola cauta).—Only one pair noted ; these were with young in September, about 100 miles east of Kalgoorlie. WHITE-BROWED BABBLER (Pomatorhinus superctliosus). — Common, especially in the semi-open country and near the coast. Not found on the plains. BROWN SONG-LARK (Cinclorhamphus cruralis).—Common on the large salt-bush flats and on the plains. RuFrous SONG-LARK (C. réfescens).—One specimen was seen, but not identified, which might have been this species. FIELD-WREN (Calamanthus campestris).—Seen only on the plains ; apparently fairly common. WHITE-FRONTED CHAT (Ephthianura albifrons).— Only a few seen, chiefly on the salt-bush and samphire flats round the salt lakes. TRICOLOURED CHAT (£. /vicolor)—Odd ones seen with the White- fronted ones (ae); common on the plains. ORANGE-FRONTED CHAT (£. aurifrons).—Fairly common on the plains ; generally, but not always, in company with £, ¢ricolor. WHITEFACE (Xerophila leucopsis).—Fairly common on the plains and in the semi-open eountry. CHESTNUT-BELLIED WHITEFACE (X. casfaneiventris)— Common in the mulga country only; is not found east of the big spinifex and mallee belt, or on it ; is the western variety of X. /eucopsis, which is only found on the east side of the spinifex belt—z.e., on the piain country. WEDGEBILL (SfAhenostoma cristatum).—Fairly common in the mulga and on the plains wherever there is a little brush or timber. VARIED-BACKED MAGPIE (Gymnorhina dorsalzs).—Very rare at first ; fairly common near the coast. BLACK-THROATED BUTCHER-BIRD (Cracticus nigrigularis).—Odd ones noted right through ; nowhere common. WHITE-WINGED BUTCHER-BIRD (C. deucopferus).— Fairly common in the gum and open mallee country, odd ones in the semi-open country, and common near the coast. WHITE-BELLIED SHRIKE-TIT (Falcunculus leucogaster).—One pair only noted, in the salmon-barked gum country. BELL-BIRD (Oreotca cristata).—Found right through ; common in the mulga and semi-open country, as also in the mallee near the coast. WESTERN THICKHEAD (Pachycephala occidentalis).—Two or three only seen in the mulga country ; none later. RUFOUS TREE-CREEPER (C/imacteris rufa).—A few noted in the salmon- barked gum country. BLACK-CAPPED TREE-RUNNER (Siffella fileata).—A few noted in the giant mallee and more open gum country ; not common. BLACK HONEY-EATER (i/yzomela nigra).—Only one specimen was noted, in the mulga country. GREEN-BACKED WHITE-EYE (Zosterops gould’).—Common amongst the coastal sand-hills only. oe | Gipson, Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla. a> BROWN-HEADED HONEY-EATER (Melithreptus brevirostris or M. leuco- genys).—A few seen in the gum and wattle country at first only ; rare. BROWN HONEY-EATER (Glycyphila ocularis).—A few seen in the same locality (wattle country) as the preceding ; rare, and very shy. SINGING HONEY-EATER (Piz/ot7s sonora).—F airly common right through, except in the dense mallee ; very common in places, especially on the coast. WHITE-EARED HONEY-EATER (P. /eucotis)—A few seen at first in wattle country ; rare. YELLOW-PLUMED HONEY-EATER (P. ornata).—Fairly common in the salmon-barked gum country and at times in the mallee. YELLOW-FRONTED HONEY-EATER (P. f/umula).— Fairly common in the mallee. LONG-BILLED HONEY-EATER (Meliornis longirostris).—Fairly common, except in salmon-barked gum country and on the plains ; very common amongst the coastal sand-hills. DuSKY MINER (Wyzantha obscura).—Very common right through, except on the plains. , RED WATTLE-BIRD (Acanthochera carunculata).—A few only in the salmon-barked gum country ; common in the coastal districts. SPINY-CHEEKED HONEY-EATER (Acanthogenys rufigularis). — Fairly common, except in the spinifex country. RED-TIPPED PARDALOTE (Pardalotus ornatus). — Fairly common in salmon-barked gum and giant mallee country. YELLOW-RUMPED PARDALOTE (P. xanthopygius).—- Several seen in the sand-hills on the coast. Not identified with certainty. SWALLOW (Aizrundo neoxena).—Odd ones right through ; very common near the coast. BLACK-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Cherameca leucosternum).—Seen only occasionally right through ; not common. GROUND-LARK (Anthus australis),—Fairly common in the open country and on the plains. BLACK-FACED WOOD-SWALLOW (Artfamus melanops).—Common right through. Woop-SWALLow (A. sordidus).—Fairly common in the gum and mallee country ; common in the semi-open country and near the coast. MASKED Woop-SWALLOw (A. fersonatus).—Common in the semi-open country on the edge on the plains ; rare elsewhere. CHESTNUT-EARED FINCH (7@niopygia castanotis).—Several noted round a rock-hole near the western edge of the plains. This was the only place they were seen, their habitat being a little further to the north, where they are found in thousands round the rock-holes. FRECKLED FROGMOUTH (Podargus phalenoides).—Fairly common in the timbered country. SPOTTED NIGHTJAR (Eurostopus argus),— Seen only occasionally ; apparently not common. OWLET-NIGHTJAR (4 gotheles nove-hollandig).—One specimen only was seen, in the salmon-barked gum country. BEE-EATER (Merops ornatus).—Fairly common in the interior sand-hill country and near the coast. RED-BACKED KINGFISHER (Ha/cyon pyrrhopygius).—Odd ones seen in the gum country. 76 Gipson, Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla. Ra SACRED KINGFISHER (A. sanctus).—A few noted in the timbered country. PALLID CUCKOO (Cuculus pallidus).—Fairly common, except on the plains. FAN-TAILED CUCKOO (Cacomantis flabelliformis).—Odd ones noted near the coast ; not seen inland. BLACK-EARED CUCKOO (Mesocalius palliolatus).—Rare ; a few noted only in the semi-open country. NARROW-BILLED BRONZE-CUCKOO (Chalcococeyx basalis).—Fairly com- mon right through. PURPLE-CROWNED LORIKEET (G/ossopsittacus porphyrocephalus).—V ery common in the salmon-barked gum country. PINK COCKATOO (Cacatua leadbeater’).—A few were seen at Queen Victoria Spring, and a few also at Eyre. GALAH (C. vroseicapilla).—Rare ; a few were seen near the coast. YELLOW-COLLARED PARRAKEET (Sarnardius semittorquatus).—Fairly common in the gum country. MANY-COLOURED PARRAKEET (Psephotus multicolor).—Common in the semi-open country on the edge of the plains. WARBLING GRASS-PARRAKEET (Melopsittacus undulaius).—One small flock only noted, in the semi-open country. BRUSH BRONZE-WING (Phaps elegans).—A few were seen at Queen Victoria Spring, and a few at Eyre. BROWN QUAIL (Synecus australis)—A few specimens only were noted on the plains ; not identified ; may have been 7. varza. LITTLE QUAIL (T7urnix velox).—Very common on the plains; only rarely seen before. MALLEE-FOWL (Zifoa ocellata).—A few in the mallee and mulga country. Not common. BLACK-TAILED NATIVE-HEN (Microtribonyx ventralis).—A few seen round the dam at Balladonia. WILD TURKEY (Eupodotis austral’s).—Very rarely seen at first, but fairly common on the plains and near the coast. BLACK-BREASTED PLOVER (Zonifer tricolor).—A few seen at the rock- holes on the plains ; common at Balladonia and other permanent waters. HOODED DOTTREL (gzalitis cucullata).—A fair number at Balladonia round the dams. . DOTTREL (Peltohyas australis)—Common on the plains only. GREENSHANK (Glo¢tis nebularius)—A few seen on the dams round Balladonia. STRAW-NECKED IBIS (Carphibis spinzcollis).\—A few were seen on the plains, and one large flock at Balladonia. WHITE-FRONTED HERON (Wolophoyx nove-hollandig).—One or two at Balladonia and a few on the coastal reefs near Eyre. WHITE-NECKED HERON (JV. facifica).— Two seen on the dam at Balladonia. BLACK DUCK (Anas superciliosa).—One only seen, on a dam near Balladonia. TEAL (Wettion castaneum).—One on the dam at Balladonia, and one flock of about 30 on the reefs on the coast near Eyre. i an ] Gipson, Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla. TT, The following sea and other birds were noted on the coast near Eyre, over a stretch of about 20 miles :— Osprey (Pandion leucocephalus).—Two noted. TURNSTONE (Arenaria interpres).—Fairly common. PIED OYSTER-CATCHER and Brack OySTER-CATCHER (H@matopus longirostvis and H. unicoloy)—Common. RED-CAPPED DotrreEL (4¢gialitis ruficapilla).—Common. BANDED STILT (Cladorhynchus leucocephalus).—Two seen. CASPIAN TERN (Hydroprogne caspia).—One seen. CRESTED TERN (Sterna bergii).—Common. SILVER GULL (Larus nove-hollandie).—Common. PaciFic GULL (Gabianus pacificus).—-Two or three seen. WHITE-FRONTED HERON (Nofophoyx nove-hollandi@).—Several seen on the reefs. REEF-HERON (Demiegretta sacra).—A few on the reefs. PIED CoRMORANT (Phalacrocorax hypoleucus).—Common. In addition, several small unidentified waders were seen. Total number of land birds identified, 111 (including three doubtful species). Total number of sea-birds identified, 13. Grand total, 124 ; and, in addition, several unidentified sea-birds. The observations were made during the months of September, October, and November (1908). Notes on Ducks. BY, ROBERT HALE (C.M:Z)S,, CoOL. Nu-B.0.U: THE following observations, made at Swan Hill, upon the Murray River, refer to eleven species. The season 1906 was a specially good one for swimming birds—the best since 1872. The river had flooded the adjacent country for at least 1,000 miles along its course, the whole of the billabongs being filled and the back chains of waterholes converted into broad lakes. The present season is even better, the flood being higher than that of 1872. Accordingly, in 1906 there was an abundance of food, and the Ducks bred large families and hatched out young late in the season. In April the wading and swimming avifauna made a stirring and very interesting impression upon the glistening water surfaces all along the face of the river frontages. I had camped for several months. Spatula rhynchotis, Lath. (Shoveller).—This is the most local of the Ducks, and may be found when nearly all the other species have gone north, or have distributed themselves. Their young are later abroad. To a limited extent only they nest in this district. When feeding one may distinctly hear them sieving in the mud. As with every other animal, they place their con- fidence in man until once shot at with a heavy gun. It is then difficult to approach near to a flock. It is a very quick flier. A flock will be asleep, and, if alarmed, the whole body will be 78 Harri, Notes on Ducks. wes tst Oct. 20 feet high in the air in the next instant. One “ Blue-wing ” will make as much noise as a whole flock of any other Duck. There is a hum in the wing as it rises. The males have a form of play by rising 15 to 20 feet directly above where they were swimming, and very quickly. They immediately fall back to their swimming position. Anas superciliosa, Gmelin (Black Duck).—This species and the Teal are the first to pair and nest. Both young and adult love to fish about the lilies and “ pussy-tail” weeds in search of shrimps and little “ yabbies.” A flock will get in close order to fish by themselves and not in conjunction with the Coots as some other Ducks do. By adopting this mass method they generally “bustle” the shrimps as the Pelicans do the beach fishes. When travelling a boat through the lagoon waters the shrimps and bream jump out because of fright. The birds appear to purposely frighten the shrimps in the shallow waters. The Cormorants will catch above as well as below when hunting in this way. On 29th April, 1907, as many as 300 Cormorants of mixed species were hunting in mass upon the weedy lagoons, where many Duck were also. The Black Duck is about the heaviest for its size, and invariably realizes the highest market price (Melbourne). Nettion castaneum, Eyton (Teal).—As with the Black Duck, it is the earliest of the local species to pair and nest. In their feeding grounds they prefer plenty of mud in which to paddle their bills. They feed largely upon a small red beetle, which they pick from the blades of water weeds. No liking is shown for spiders. Nettion gtbberifrons, S. Mill. (Grey Teal).—I could not decide the species when on the wing. Dendrocycna arcuata, Cuvier (Whistling Duck).—Evidently a rare species in this locality, for during the last 8 or 9 years only one flock has been seen (50 birds). About 30 years ago they were numerous, and it was a common sight to find them camped upon the dead limbs of the red gum trees. This is a very quiet Duck. Aythya (Nyroca) australis, Gid. (White-eyed Duck).—This is one of the two species known as Widgeon or Hard-head It fishes in conjunction with the Coots (Fudica australis). A flock of say 100 will find a large flock of Coots and watch them disturbing the shrimps in order to secure a share. The Coot collects its food below the surface, while the Hard-head catches the shrimp as it jumps in the air. The Hard-head catches two to the Coot’s one. This isa diving Duck, and probably the only one that resorts to this method. The Coots appear to do all the work. Mussels form another food, which is found in the clayey banks of the river, into which the Ducks plunge their beaks, below the water surface. They prefer timbered lakes. A loud squawk is their signal to rise quickly. Volen LX. a ae | Hatt, Notes on Ducks. 79 Malacorhynchus membranaceus, Lath. (Pink-eared Duck).— This bird feeds in the same manner as the Shoveller (Blue- wing). It shovels about in the mud, head down and tail up, as it floats. The preference is for brackish lagoons, such as lakes Chapman and Tuchiwop. Casarca tadornoides, Jard. (Shieldrake or Mountain-Duck).— Feeds upon the short mossy grasses in the same way as the Maned Goose. This causes quick decomposition of the bird when killed in summer. Stictonetta nevosa, Gld. (Freckled Duck)—Here we have a Duck quiet, tame, and sleepy. Shooters say it has no sense of smell. Its voice is likened to the grunt of a Berkshire pig. Chenonetta jubata, Lath. (Maned Goose, Wood-Duck.)—This is a pasture feeder. I found it during this season to be very destructive of specially grown crops. The first crop (18 acres) of rice grown in Victoria for commercial purposes was completely destroyed by it. At other times it appears to feed on grass fields. It is a tame bird, and will even approach one, from an inquisitive turn of mind, the whole flock gradually getting nearer. It associates in large flocks. Anseranas semtpalmata, Wath. (Pied Goose)—Is a grass feeder. In 1902, the great drought year, farmers in this locality poisoned them because they were feeding almost entirely on the growing crops. Up to 1902 I knew them to be annually in thousands. Cultivation has driven them away for good, so far as present generations are concerned. : Bird Notes from Cleveland, Tasmania. By (oss) ie A. PLETCHER. PaRT II. IN my last paper (£7uz, viii., p. 210), I dealt with three varieties of lagoon birds. Owing to the Cleveland lagoon partly drying up, the Bitterns (Botaurus pecilopterus) did not nest here, but sought refuge in a large lagoon some distance away, and so I was unable to study them as I had wished. In the autumn of 1g08 I found an old nest of these birds containing egg-shell fragments, but the swamp in which this was found remained dry all the year, and the birds did not return. The Bitterns when disturbed would stand in their characteristic attitude for a while and then rise and wing their way to another corner of the lagoon. On the oth October last year they commenced their “ booming” calls, and these were continued up to the second week of December. I remember early one morning flushing six Bitterns from their breakfast of water reeds. They were all, as far as could be seen, 80 FLETCHER, Bird Notes from Cleveland, Tasmania. Beas adult birds, and made an impressive picture as they flew away. A pair of White-fronted Herons (Wotophoyx nove-hollandie@) lived in the lagoon, but one was killed in the autumn, and the survivor remained alone until 22nd August, after which date a mate was found. This pair nested in the forest, and in due’ time brought a family of three young ones to wade in the waters with them. One nest under observation had five half-fledged young ones in the second week of December. Something happened to the parents, for when next looked at the young Herons were all lying in the nest dead. So far I have seen no Rails or Crakes, so will pass on to the Harrier (Czvcus gouldi), as, being a frequenter of both lagoons and wooded rises, he forms an appropriate bridge between the swamp and land birds. Until studying these birds here I had no idea they were so aggressive, and such unfortunate neigh-_ bours for the smaller birds to have. Owing to many of the smaller lagoons drying up, these predatory birds were confined to the larger sheets of water and adjacent scrubby rises, consequently many fierce battles were waged. One evening I watched one of these Harriers endeavouring to catch a Ground-Lark (Anthus australis). Afraid of losing his prey, the pursuer called to his mate, who quickly appeared, and together they dashed after the Lark. This poor little creature rose higher and higher, endeavouring to escape its persecutors, and its cries of distress could plainly be heard, even when it was so high up that it appeared but a speck. It eventually got away by flying against the wind, in which direction it seemed to quickly gain upon the Hawks. These latter were greatly disconcerted at the loss of their quarry. They circled round and round, up and down, calling to one another, and were apparently completely nonplused at their failure. These Harriers appear to have regular feeding places, or “ tables,’ and when food is captured retire to them to devour it. Sometimes the “tables” are a bunch of trodden- down reeds, ofttimes an old nest. That meals are plentiful the Coots’ feathers and claws, rabbit skins, and bones of smaller creatures amply testify. The nests I found last season were all built in reed tussocks, generally close to water, sometimes in clumps standing in 2 to 3 feet of water. Sticks and bark formed the foundation, with grassy lining. The nest is easily found, the sitting bird betraying the situation as she rises very suddenly when the intruder is heard approaching. One bird I often flushed was a magnificent specimen of her species, large-framed and beautifully marked. She was sitting on three eggs, very small and dainty, white, with dark green lining. I took them on 23rd November and placed two pullet eggs (white and pierced) in their place, as an experiment, to see what the Hawk eee | FLretrcHer, Bird Notes from Cleveland, Tasmania. 81 would do, also how long she would continue to sit. As soon as I was apparently out of sight she returned to her nest, and had such faith in the eggs that she continued sitting for some weeks. The Christmas holidays intervened, and when I looked at the nest early in February there were no traces of shells. Probably the eggs were eaten by Crows after the Hawk’s desertion. An interesting fact in connection with this bird was that close at hand was a second Hawk’s nest from which at sundown I sometimes flushed a Harrier, but in it eggs were never laid. So I came to the conclusion that the bird which was off duty slept on this spare nest. I have known these Harriers to desert a partly-made nest because it had been inspected. All local birds look on these Hawks as enemies—even the Rosella Parrots (Platycercus eximius) chase them. Last season I watched a pair of Czrcus gould? attack a White Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) as it flew across a lagoon. One Hawk struck it, but it got away, uttering most discordant shrieks, and leaving a clawful of white feathers behind. The Chestnut-faced Owl (Strzx castanops) and the Spotted (Ninox maculata) are both found in this district. The former has been seen several times in the daytime. From the hollow spout of a tree I saw the dried remains of a Coot hanging, while its head and feet were on the ground below ;'so I con- cluded the spout was the home of an Owl. Owlet-Nightjar (4gotheles nove-hollandie).—Only once have I seen this bird. On the 2nd October, 1907, I saw it enter a hole in the trunk of a dead gum-tree. It flew out when I struck the tree, but returned almost immediately. It was evidently sitting, but I could not ascertain if it had young ones or eggs—the latter probably, the date being early in the season. The Pardalotes are very numerous in the forests of this district, and their presence makes the bush in spring-time quite noisy. Sometimes when the observer is listening intently for other bird-calls the constant repetition of their rather limited vocal powers becomes slightly wearying ; yet they are most engaging little creatures, and a tree is richer for their presence. The Yellow-tipped or Allied Pardalote (Pardalotus affinis) and the Diamond-Bird (P. punctatus) are both present, but I cannot say for certain whether P. guadragintus is to be found amongst our gum-trees. During the nesting season of 1908 I frequently picked up half-shells of the Allied Pardalote’s eggs, which had evidently been thrown down from the nesting-hole above. On 25th October a nest was found with three partly- fledged young ones. On the gth November last year I saw some indications of a young Cuckoo being the inmate of an Allied Pardalote’s home. On the ground, at the bole of a tree, I picked up the pieces of three properly chipped egg-shells, 82 FLETCHER, Bird Notes from Cleveland, Tasmania. es and just by them were two young Pardalotes, naked and dead. I watched carefully for some time, and saw both parents enter a hole about 20 feet up with food again and again. Now, what were they feeding? Was it the young one which the presence of the third egg-shell showed had existed? If so, one naturally wonders why the young ones were lying dead on the ground ? If they had died in the nest, could or would the parents have thrown them out? And if the Cuckoo were in the hole above, where was the third young one? Could it be supposed they were living amicably together? Not very likely. It may possibly have escaped my observation on the ground. I have been very much interested in above, and have often puzzled over it. I regret that climbing and chopping open the hole to see what was inside was impossible. As Pardalotes often choose the same nesting-hole again, I shall endeavour to watch them, and see if “ history repeats itself,” as it often does, even in bird-life. Several pairs of the Spotted Ground-Bird (Czuclosoma punctatum) have their “happy hunting grounds” in various parts of our white gum and banksian forests. As far as my observa- tions go, one pair keeps to the same locality throughout the year, breeding also in its haunts. They are quiet birds, and it is a pleasure to watch them when hunting for grubs and seeds— they turn over pieces of bark and small sticks so skilfully. One of these birds slept at night in a Robin’s old nest about 3 feet from the ground. It did not perch on the edge, but rested with body well in. I think its mate was sitting, but I could not find her nest. A nest, built under a “sage” and containing two eggs, was discovered on the 8th October last year. When inspected a few days afterwards the treasures had gone, evi- dently rifled by some ground enemy. On 29th November, 1908, I flushed a pair of Ground-Birds which had three young ones, partly grown, with them. While walking across some burnt ground on 11th December last year one of these birds quietly and quickly ran away from a tiny fallen gum bough, hardly more than a handful of leaves. Lifting these up, I saw a grass- lined hollow containing two eggs. Other occupants of the same area of ground as the above- mentioned Ground-Bird are some Painted Quails ( arnzx varia). They are very fond of the tiny dried reed-beds, a few square yards in extent, which are interspersed among the banksia scrubs. The soil is sandy, and the ground vegetation is chiefly a species of wild thyme and a similar shrub. In view of Mr. Seth-Smith’s interesting article contributed to Zhe Avicultural Magazine (vol iii, New Series, p. 295-300) on “ The Breeding of Zuruix varia” in his aviary, the following notes from my diary may be worth noticing :—25th November, 1908.—Flushed a Painted Quail—from size judged it was a male—with four young ones, ~ a FietcHer, Bird Notes from Cleveland, Tasmania. 83 half fledged. The little creatures hid under the thyme bushes. 11th December.—About a couple of chains from above spot I disturbed a Painted Quail with four young ones. In the short glimpse I obtained as they ran to the reeds I noticed they appeared to be clothed in down intermingled with feathers. They had all been lying in a sand-bath when I suddenly dis- turbed them. A few days afterwards, on 20th December, I passed through the same patch of reeds. It was about 7 o'clock in the evening, and as I was walking quickly along a male Painted Quail whirred in front of me. Looking down, I saw where it had been dusting; so I thought—“ Sitting bird, dusting so late in the day,’ and set to work to hunt for the nest, but for some time without success. As light was fading, I was just giving up the search for that day when I discovered another dusting hollow and much excreta. This at once told me it was a sitting bird I had flushed, so, searching longer, I discovered four eggs in a little depression under a banksia sapling about 2 feet high. The nest was sheltered by the reeds and banksia and lined with half a dozen grass-stalks. The eggs were lying with their points towards the centre. In Mr. Seth-Smith’s paper he tells how the female leaves the incubation of the eggs to the charge of the male bird and seeks a fresh mate. The above facts from nature appear to corroborate the conduct of the Turnix varia in captivity. Variation in Trichoglossus, Vig. and Hors. BY ROBERT TALI CM.Z.S.,, CoOL, MBO: U; SOME time ago I purchased in one parcel 60 skins of what appeared to be 7. septentrionalzs, sub-sp., Robinson. They were labelled “Southern Queensland.” Robinson says*:—‘‘ The northern representative of this common Australian Lory can readily be distinguished by the smaller size and by the brighter and purer blue of the head and abdominal patch. Some of the specimens from Mounts Sapphire and Bellenden-Ker agree very fairly with the original specimens from Cooktown, whilst others approach the typical form more nearly, so far as colouration is concerned, but all are distinctly smaller in dimensions.” Salvadori, writing of the species, 7. nove-hollandi@, Gm., sayst :—“ Breast yellow, more or less stained with red along the middle, sometimes almost entirely red except on the sides.” My skins show— a. The young (six specimens) exhibit a nearly uniform yellow breast, with a small proportion of red upon the central area. * Ibis, October, 1900, p. 642. + Cat. Birds Brit. Mus., xx., p. 59 (1891). : J ayiats BER alg Pay male Emu 84 Hatt, Variation in Trichoglossus. cat ck 6. Certain of the fully adult specimens show the sides to be red also; a vestige of yellow upon one. c. Ten specimens show uniform red breasts, with a very small proportion of yellow upon the sides of the neck. d. As the bird matures the breast red becomes separated from the abdominal blue by a clearly defined horizontal line. Only 7 per cent. of the specimens show this stage of development. e. The depth of colour on the occiput varies considerably between a light violet or violet-brown to a deep violet and blue. This appears as much in the adult as in the young birds. jf. The abdominal blue in 20 skins is dull, mostly lustreless. In 20 others it is full of lustre. No dates are upon the skins to indicate the time of year in relation to moult or nesting. In many more the transitional phases are showing. g. Wing measurements in adults show 6.2 to 6.8 inches, mostly 6.5. I think, with Mr. Robinson, that there is a sub-species, and that it is confined to the extreme north of Queensland. About the Richmond River we get the species. I think the sub-species is nomadic in Northern Queensland, while the species is migratory between Southern Queensland and Tasmania. Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, Western Australia. By ALAN FAIRFAX CROSSMAN, F.L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. CUMMININ is situate about 90 miles east from Beverley and 200 miles due east from Perth. It is, roughly speaking, about half-way between the two rabbit-proof fences, and is some 30 miles south of Merreden, on the Eastern Goldfields railway. The country is very undulating, the hills being chiefly timbered with jam-wood (Acacta acuminata) and York gum, while the » valleys grow forests of salmon-barked gum, gimlet gum, and morell, interspersed with tea-tree and occasional patches of yate (eucalypt). Through part of the country runs what is called the Salt River—a river only in name. Though occasionally in very wet winters it does run, it consists really of a chain of lakes of varying sizes, some of which have often a considerable amount of water in wet seasons, and are the haunts of innumerable Ducks. Throughout the district the good land is surrounded by vast sand-plains, some of which are useful for feeding stock, while others are covered with practically impene- trable scrub, and are the haunts of kangaroo, Emu, Mallee- Fowl, and other game. Out of the jam-wood country one finds huge granite rocks outcropping, and it is under these that \ ee | CrossMAN, Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, W.A. 85 water is principally found. There is very little surface water except in the winter, and this is the great drawback to the country. The soil in many parts is splendid, but the country is unreliable for arable purposes on account of the uncertainty of the rainfall. These notes were made during a residence of nearly three years, the birds in most instances being identified through field- glasses, though in several cases specimens were obtained with a collectors gun. There were, in addition to those set out here, several other species which were not sufficiently identified, and of these no mention is made in this paper. However, it is hoped that the following list (89 species) will be of some assistance in arriving at the distribution of the various birds of Western Australia :— Emu (Dromeus nove-hollandie).—This bird is common in the district, though large numbers of them must die during the summer for want of water. The Emu has an objectionable habit, when in the paddocks with sheep, of marching round and round a flock, drumming all the time, and then rushing through the middle of them regardless of consequences. There is a hill on Cumminin station, known as Narenuppin or Emu Hill, which is a favourite resort for these birds, no doubt on account of the open waterholes there. MALLEE-FowL OR GNow (Lipoa ocellata).—This bird was formerly much more plentiful than at the present time, if one may judge from the old nesting mounds about, but no explanation can be given why they, in common with opossums and other small animals, practically disappeared from the large tract of country of which Cumminin is part. It is surprising in what hard country one finds their old nests. I found a very large disused one in 1907 in hard ironstone gravel country ; it was practically circular, and measured 16 feet in diameter. I was never lucky enough to find a nest in use, but in the beginning of 1908 I found one which had been used the previous nesting season. This was in soft country in gimlet gum forest, and was within 20 yards of the old Narrogin-Southern Cross road. STUBBLE QualiL (Coturnix pectoralis).—The Brown Quail * was an irregular visitor. In 1907 it appeared in considerable numbers, and also nested in the district, whereas in the following year I did not see a single bird. BrusH BRONZE-WING (Phaps elegans).—A common species, seen in large numbers round the waterholes in the summer, but very occasion- ally seen in the winter, when there is plenty of water about. BLACK-TAILED NATIVE-HEN (Microtribonyx ventralis).—I saw one of these birds near my homestead for several days early in 1907. Brack Moor-Hen (Gallinula tenebrosa).—A bird of this species frequented a small soak at Narenuppin for some time. No doubt they are not uncommon round some of the salt lakes in wet seasons. SOUTHERN STONE-PLOVER (Burhinus grallavius).—This bird, com- monly known as the ‘ Curlew,”’ is very plentiful. * The Brown Quail of W.A, is generally recognized as Syvecus sordidus,—EDs, 86 Crossman, Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, W.A. eee BustarbD (Eupodotis australis).—The so-called Wild Turkey is not common, though at times one may come across parties of three or four. BLACK-BREASTED PLOVER (Zonifer tricoloy).—This bird seems to prefer the cultivated land, and is much commoner where there is arable land. A few pairs might be seen every year about the time the crop was coming up. STRAW-NECKED Isis (Carphibis spinicollis).—A frequent visitor in early summer, when they apparently come after the grasshoppers. In 1907 some four or five hundred of these birds frequented the paddocks round my homestead for a considerable time. WHITE-NECKED HERON (Notophoyx pacifica).—A Heron of this species visited the small dam near the house on several occasions in 1907. WHITE-FRONTED Heron (N. nove-hollandie).—I saw one bird of this kind on the run in the early part of 1908. Mountain-Duck (Casarca tadornoides).—I saw a pair of Mountain- Ducks with five or six very small young on a lake in the Salt River about 9 or 10 miles from Cumminin in September, 1907, and an old male was shot by an aborigine at the homestead about October, 1908. Brack Duck (Anas superciliosa).—Large numbers of these Ducks frequent the pools and lakes on the Salt River in wet seasons. TEAL (Nettion castaneum).—I shot a pair of Teal at Cumminin in 1907. They are occasionally to be found on dams and waterholes on the run, and no doubt in wet seasons are plentiful on the Salt River. SPOTTED HARRIER (Circus assimilis)—This species used to be very troublesome about the time young Turkeys (domestic) were about. WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE (Uvoaétus audax).—This Eagle is unfortu- nately of frequent occurrence during the lambing season, and does a great deal of damage. They undoubtedly nest in the district, though I never actually found a nest. Poison gets rid of them, but they seem to require a strong dose of strychnine. One I killed measured over 6 feet across the wings. BLACK-CHEEKED Fatcon (Falco melanogenys).—I have occasionally seen this species in the district. LittLe Fatcon (F. lunulatus).—I was able to identify this Falcon at least on one occasion. Brown Hawk (Hievacidea orientalis)—Both this and the next species are plentiful. The Brown Hawk is not above feeding on carrion, as on two occasions I have found one dead near a poisoned lamb. It is curious to see the male and female differing so much in colouration as do Brown Hawks. They are a source of great loss in the poultry-yard. STRIPED Brown Hawk (H. berigora). SPARROW-HAwWK (Accipter civvhocephalus).—I have seen this bird occasionally at Cumminin. KESTREL (Cerchneis genchrotdes).—Common. It is quite possible that C. unicoloy (Milligan) occurs also, as there appear to be . two varieties, but I have never handled specimens of the birds. BooBooKk Owt (Ninox boobook).—This bird is common, and its well- known note may usually be heard at night in fine weather. ees CrossMAN, Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, W.A. 87 WHITE-TAILED CocKATOO (Calyptorhynchus baudini).—Occasionally small parties of this species appear in the district. YELLOW-CHEEKED PARRAKEET (Platycercus icterotis)—This bird, usually known as the West Australian Rosella, is plentiful round Cumminin. It has rather a pleasant, mellow note. YELLOW-COLLARED PARRAKEET (Barnardius semitorquatus).—The ““ Twenty-eight,’’ as it is called, is extremely common. WARBLING GRASS-PARRAKEET (Melopsittacus undulatus).—I saw one of these birds drinking from a tank at Cumminin in December, 1907. FRECKLED FROGMOUTH (Podargus phalenoides).—Common. RED-BACKED KINGFISHER (Halcyon pyrrhopygius).—I have seen this bird near Cumminin on two occasions. SACRED KINGFISHER (H. sanctus).—This species occurs occasionally, but is not plentiful. BEE-EATER (Merops ornatus).—Common in the spring and summer. Patiip Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus).—Common. FAN-TAILED CucKOoo (Cacomantis flabelliformis).—This bird was fairly plentiful in 1907. SWALLow (Hirundo neoxena).—Common. BLACK-AND-WHITE SWALLow (Cherameca leucosternum).—A few pairs may occasionally be seen, but it is far from common, and appears to have here reached its most southerly limit. TREE-MarRTIN (Petrochelidon nigricans).—Both this and the next species are common. Farry MARTIN (P. ariel). LESSER BRowN FLYCATCHER (Micneca assimilis).—Common. RED-CAPPED ROBIN (Petreca goodenovs).—Common. HoopeD Rosin (P. bicolov).—Common. SHORT-BILLED TREE-TIT (Smicrornis brevivostris)—Common. WESTERN FAntTAIL (Rhipidura preissi).—Occasionally seen. BLACK-AND-WHITE FANTAIL (R. ¢vicolory).—Common. RESTLESS FLYCATCHER (Sisuva inquieta).—Common. GROUND CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Ptevopodocys phasianella).—For a long time I had been trying to identify a bird which I had seen in various parts of the district, but which I could never secure. At last I was able to see a small party at close quarters, and identified them as belonging to this species. The bird has a chattering note, and, except during the breeding season, seems to go about in small parties. Its note is less harsh than that of the Black-faced Cuckoo-Shrike (Graucalus melanops). I shot one of a pair on one occasion, and the other bird immediately flew down to its wounded companion ; it soon, however, left it, and afterwards it was impossible to get near the unwounded bird. BLACK-FACED CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Graucalus melanops).—A common bird at all seasons, and distinctly inclined to be gregarious. WHITE-SHOULDERED CATERPILLAR-EATER (Lalage tricolor).—This species is not uncommon in the spring and summer, and has a rather pleasing song. CHESTNUT-BACKED GROUND-BirD (Cinclosoma castanonotum).—On \ 88 CrossMAN, Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, W.A. Pkg my way up from Beverley, in June, 1906, I saw a bird apparently of this species, but was unable to obtain it. WHITE-BROWED BABBLER (Pomatorhinus superciliosus).—Common. BROWN SonG-LArRK (Cinclorhamphus cruralis).—In 1906 this species did not put in an appearance, but in the following year it was plentiful everywhere in the open country. WHITE-FRONTED CHAT (Ephthianura albifrons)—Large parties of this little bird may be seen during the winter. The male bird assists the female during the period of incubation. BROAD-TAILED Tit (Acanthiza apicalis)—Common. YELLOW-RUMPED Tir (A. chrvysorrhoa).—Common. REDTHROAT (Sericornits brunnea).— Not uncommon in_ scrubby country. WHITE-WINGED WREN (Malurus leucopterus).— 1 have had one opportunity of seeing this species, when a party of these pretty little birds allowed me to get quite close to them on a sand-plain. The party consisted of a male and female and some fully fledged young. The note of the birds, which is very similar to that of the Banded Wren (Malurus splendens) first drew my attention to them. BLUE-BREASTED WREN (Malurus pulcherrimus).— On the only occasion on which I saw this beautiful bird I was much struck with the way in which the various colours seemed to blend. I was unable at the time to name the species, which I saw in a salmon-barked gum forest on the edge of a sand-plain, but I identified it immediately from specimens I saw in the Perth Museum. WESTERN GRASS-WREN (Amytis gigantura)—On my way from Beverley to Cumminin in June, 1906, I saw a bird, which at- tracted my attention very much, fly across the road in front of my buggy. It settled and then ran along the ground, jumping over a log on its way. I quickly got down, and, taking my collector’s gun, followed the bird, and was lucky enough to flush it again. It settled further on again, behind a bush, when I managed to get a snap-shot at it. Imagine my disgust on reaching the spot at not being able to find the bird. After some time, however, my spaniel fetched it out of a thick bush. I was unable to identify it, and sent it to the Western Australian Museum, in Perth, where it was stated to be this species. The next time I went down to Perth I was examining specimens of A. giganturva, and it struck me that the bird I had sent down differed in certain respects, but I was unable to compare them, as the specimen I obtained had been mislaid. About a year ago in The Emu there appeared a description of a new species of Grass-Wren by Mr. Tom Carter, of Broome Hill, and from what he said there I think that the bird obtained by me belonged to his species ; however, the specimen has been lost, and the question can now never be cleared up. About six weeks before obtaining this bird I was driving down to Beverley and a bird flew across the road and exhibited the same tactics as the one I eventually shot, and I then said to my companion—‘ I believe that is a new or rare species of bird.’’ This, I think, was another bird of the same species. MaskED Woop-SwaLLow (Artamus personatus).—In the summer of 1907-8 this bird was plentiful in the jam-wood country, though in the preceding year I saw none of them. 7 oe 2 - : atts = : we | CrossMAN, Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, W.A. 89 Woop-SwatLow (4. fenebrosus)—Common. BLACK-FACED WOOD-SWALLOW (4. melanops).—Plentiful. BUFF-BELLIED SHRIKE-THRUSH (Collyriocincla vufiventris).— This bird is decidedly common, more especially in the forest country, where its fine ringing notes may continually be heard in the winter and spring. MacpPicE-Lark (Grallina picata).—This_ bird seems to have a liking for the more settled districts, and does not come quite so far east as Cumminin, though I have seen it between there and Beverley. VARIED-BACKED MAGPIE (Gymnorhina dorsalis)—Common. This species seems to sing at all hours of the day and night. BLACK-THROATED BUTCHER-BIRD (Cracticus nigrvigular?s).— This bird is fairly plentiful, and its magnificent notes may be often heard. I had continually heard a bird witha rich mellow whistle, and at first put it down as a Magpie. Eventually I got close to one of the whistlers, and, although I could see it was a Butcher-Bird, could not give it a name. I was, however, able later to inspect one of them through a strong pair of field-glasses and to identify it as of this species. Its alarm note is of a chattering kind, but does not seem so harsh as that of the common bird. WHITE-WINGED BuTcHER-BIRD (C. leucopterus).—Fairly common. BuTcCHER-BIRD (C. destvuctor).—Common. WHITE-BELLIED SHRIKE-T1tT (Falcunculus leucogaster).—I1 have seen this species on several occasions at Cumminin. BELL-BirpD (Oreotca cristata)—Common. I found one nest, which was placed in the cup formed by the branches of an old jam-wood tree, and contained three eggs. There were a few caterpillars round the edge of the nest. RED-THROATED THICKHEAD (Pachycephala gilberti)._I obtained a bird in August, 1907, which apparently belonged to this species, but which differed from the description given in the first edition of Hall’s “Key” in that it was there stated that this species has a black pectoral collar, whereas my specimen had not one. Its clear, ringing notes first attracted my attention to the bird in a salmon-barked gum forest. GREY-BREASTED SHRIKE-ROBIN (Eopsaltria georgina).—This bird is not uncommon. The only nest I have found belonging to this species was a most ornamental residence, decorated with long strips of grey bark, matching exactly in colour the dead bush in which it'was built. BLACK-CAPPED TREE-RUNNER (Svttella pileata)—This species may often be seen in small parties going through the forest or jam-wood country. RurFous TREE-CREEPER (Climacteris vyufa).—Common. GREEN-BACKED WHITE-EYE (Zostevops gouldi).— Far from common. RED-TIPPED PARDALOTE (Pardalotus orvnatus)—This bird, which is the only one of its family that I have identified, is decidedly common in the forest country. WESTERN BROWN-HEADED HONEY-EATER (Melithreptus leucogenys).—~ This comparatively recently named bird is not uncommon. WHITE-FRONTED HONEY-EATER (Glycyphila albifyons).—Common in sand-plain country. go CrossMAN, Birds Seen at Cumminin Station, W.A. Ee WESTERN WHITE-EARED HONEY-EATER (Ptilotis nove-norci@).—My first introduction to this handsome species was in the winter of 1906. I was out kangaroo-hunting, and while going through a thicket of bastard jam-wood and mallee I heard the notes of a bird which in the distance resembled the call of an English Partridge. However, on approaching nearer the resemblance ceased, and the call was accom- panied by a mellow whistle. On the following morning I went out to the place, and succeeded in obtaining a specimen. Since then I have often seen and heard the bird in similar localities. SINGING HONEY-EATER (Ptilotis sonova).—Fairly common. YELLOW-PLUMED HONEY-EATER (P. ovnata).—This is decidedly the commonest Honey-eater in the district. Dusky MINER (Myzantha obscuva).—Common. RED WaATTLE-BirpD (Acanthochera carunculata)—Common. LitTLE WAtTtLe-Birp (Anellobia lunulata).—Occasionally seen. SPINY -CHEEKED HONEy-EATER (Acanthogenys rufigularis). — Common. Pripit (Anthus australis) Common, varying in colour according to the soil. CHESTNUT-EARED FincH (Teniopygia castanotis).—Common. YELLOW-SPOTTED BOWER-BirRD (Chlamydodera guttata)—I saw a bird which I put down as belonging to this species in the latter part of 1908, but was not able to obtain it. Crow (Corvus covonoides).—Common all the year round. This bird is a regular curse during lambing time, when it will settle on new-born lambs and ewes that are down and pick their eyes out while they are alive. LEADEN CROW-SHRIKE (Strepera plumbea).— This bird, usually, known as the “ Squeaker,”’ on account of its note, is decidedly common. The White Oological Collection. By D. LE SouErF, C.M.Z.S., &c., MELBOURNE. WiTH much pleasure I lately visited Mr. H. L. White, of Belltrees Station, near Scone, New South Wales. Mr. White is the possessor of a splendid collection of Aus- tralian birds’ eggs, there being no similar Australian collection extant, and it is still growing fast. The eggs are all in clutches, in perfect condition, and with full data. The illustrations of two of the drawers, one containing Ospreys’ and the other Regent-Birds’ eggs, will give some idea as to what the collec- tion is like, especially when we remember that there are many similar drawers, some of which we hope to illustrate by colour photography later on in Zhe Emu. The labelling of the clutches is excellent, as on the label of the first clutch of each series is the name, as well as three numbers, one referring to the name in Mathew’s “ Handlist,’ another to A. J. Campbell’s work (“ Nests and Eggs”), and the third to Mr. White’s own data-book. Of the eggs it is difficult to speak, over 800 species being THE Emu, Vol. 1X. Series of Regent-Birds’ (Seviculus melinus) Eggs in the Collection of Mr. H. L. White. FROM A PHOTO BY SID. W. JACKSON THE Emu, Vol. 1X. Series of Ospreys’ (Pandion leucocephalus) Eggs in the Collection of Mr. H. L. White. -O FROM A PHOT BY SID. W. JACKSON. et _ Le Sougr, The White Oological Collection. gol represented, and in many of them are splendid series, showing diversified types, such as of Cvacticus, Gymnorhina, Corvus, Strepera, Ortolus, Chibia, Grallina, Collyriocincla, Graucalus, Sericulus, Ptilonorhynchus, Entomyza, Piulemon, and many others, as well as specimens of the Golden Bower-Bird (Przono- dura), Tooth-billed Bower-Bird (Scenopeetes) and Ardea suma- trana. There are many “type” eggs, as well as several unique sets, but the best way to appreciate the collection is to see it for one’s .self, and Mr. White deserves the thanks of all oologists for getting together such a magnificent scientific collection, which will become simply invaluable as time goes on, because many of the birds will become scarce, if not extinct, through the country being cleared for cultivation. The collection of nests is also excellent. Personally I consider the nest is just as much part of the bird’s natural economy as the eggs. The data-book or catalogue is quite a monumental work. Not only is full data given of each clutch of eggs, but also the measurements of each egg. Great credit is due to Mr. Sid. W. Jackson, who has systematically arranged and labelled the eggs in the cabinets and also compiled the catalogue. He performs his work enthusiastically, and does everything very thoroughly. Belltrees is an ideal home for a naturalist. It was in that neighbourhood that Gould worked for some time and got so many of his type specimens of birds. It was a great pleasure to me to go over the same ground that was traversed by the great ornithologist, to whom ornithologists owe so much. The country is much diversified, has a fair amount of timber, with steep hills, and the Hunter and other rivers winding in and out among them. Native game, such as wallaroo, kangaroos, wallabies, rat kangaroos, &c., also abound, but are being rapidly thinned out for the sake of their skins. Mr. White states that the Scrub-Turkey (Catheturus lathamz) is to be found in some of the thickly timbered gullies that lead to the higher land. I noticed that the European Starling had found its way there, and many of them roosted in a dense thicket of bamboos at the river's edge near the homstead. AN AUSTRALIAN’S PROMOTION.—News has been received of the call to the English bar in Trinity term at Gray’s Inn of Mr. Charles F. Belcher, M.A., LL.B. Mr. Belcher, who was born in Geelong, and is a son of Mr. George F. Belcher, obtained first- class honours in his final examination, being placed fourth out of 124 candidates, a distinction which carries with it a certificate of honour and a prize of 450 from the benchers of the Inns of Court. For a year or two Mr. Belcher was one of the c’ editors of 7he Emu. His brother ornithologists will be glad tc 2arn of his success in London. Emu rst Oct. Qg2 MatHeEws, Additions to “‘ Handlist.” Additions to the “Handlist of the Birds of Australasia.” By GREGORY M. MATHEWS, F.L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. 34A. Geopelia shortridgei, Grant, Bull. BO. Cex 78 i) Carnarvon; Waa 306A, Chalcophaps occidentalis, North, Vict. Nat., xxiv., p. 135 ... Pt. Keats, N.-W.A. 52A. Ocydromus sylvestris, Sclater ... Lord Howe Id. 331A. Ptistes coccineopterus, Gould (cf Math., Bull. B.O.C., xxi., p. ili.) ... N.& N.-W. Austr. 459A. Pseudogerygone cantator, ‘Weather- hill): Bveuy ic, p20") se ... S.-E. Queensland. 473A. Peecilodryas albigularis, Rothsch. and Hart., Nov. Zool., xiv. p.479 Cape York. 574A. Acanthiza leighi, Grant, Bull. B.O.C., KBR a PLZ ST ese Bt Lithgow, N.S.W. 586A. Sericornis balstoni, Grant, Bull. ) Bernier Td Car BOG. xxiii, 2p. Zou ase . § 2 “narver, W.A. 603A. Malurus dulcis, Math., Bull. B.O.C., Rl Pe lOOns ... N.-W. Australia. 603B. Malurus bernieri, Grant, Bull. B.O.C., | Bernier. Id., Car- ARATE OL 72.6} s/f) Narvon; W.A. OIA. Stipiturus mallee, e, Campb, Emu, vili., | Mallee district, p. 34 fa Mictetion 619A. Amytornis varia, "Carter, Vict. Nat. MMV, PireOous: ... Broome Hill, W.A. 700A. Neositta magnirostris, Ingram, Bull. BOiG., xxt, p99 ... Inkerman, N.Q. 728A. Pardalotus pallida, Campb., Emu, \ Coongan River, viii, p. 142... ..J N.-W. Australia 838A. Agintha minor, Campb. (of, Math., Ball. B:0:Ciy soxt.,p24) .... North Queensland. 850A. Oriolus affinis, Gould ca ... N.-W. Australia. 853A. Sphecotheres stalkeri, Ingram, Bull. ) Mt. Elliot, Towns- Bi@.C. noxiespsi10G aes rede eves Stray Feathers. FAIRY MARTIN (PETROCHELIDON ARIEL).—These nests (see Plate VI.) were built in May, 1908, during springlike weather. It then set in cold,and they were deserted until August, when the Martins returned ‘and set up housekeeping again. The photo- graph was taken in September.—C. A. BARNARD. Coomooboo- laroo, vz@ Duaringa (Q.) * x * PENGUIN ASTRAY.—An interesting find recently made on Rottnest Island, 12 miles north-west of Fremantle, was a THE Emu, Vol. LX. PEATE ME Nests of Colony of Fairy Martins (Petrochelidon ariel), A. BARNARD By Cc, FROM A PHOTO. Vol. IX. 1909 Stvay Feathers. 93 specimen of the Crested Penguin (Catarrhactes chrysocome), which was picked up by Mr. Miller, of the Rottnest Signal Station. Mr. Otto Lippert, the taxidermist of the Western Aus- tralian Museum, happened to be collecting on the island, and he at once prepared the skin. This species of Penguin was first recorded for Western Australia by Mr. A. J. Campbell, in 1889, who secured one close to Hamelin Harbour, near Cape Leeuwin. The bird had never previously been seen on Rottnest Island.— C. P. CONIGRAVE. Perth (W.A.), 2/8/09. * * * WoobD-SWALLOWS AS HONEY-EATERS.—In one of the recent issues of Zhe Emu a correspondent refers to Wood-Swallows acting as honey-eaters. I can support his observations as fol- lows:—During the month of August, about four years ago, I was camped a few miles out from Laverton (W.A.) About 8 o'clock one morning a flock of fully 200 Black-faced Wood- Swallows (Artamus melanops) came round the camp. They stopped for about an hour and then disappeared again, going north. During the whole of the time they stayed with us they were very busy feeding on the honey (presumably) from the flowers of a pretty red-flowering mulga (acacia ?) * which was growing round the camp.—CHAs. G. GIBSON. Perth (W.A.) * * * FOXES v. BIRDS.—In a letter received by me from Mr. Geo. Graham, A.O.U., of Scott’s Creek, near Cobden (Vic.), he states that during the spring and summer of 1908-9 Pipits (Azthus australis) were, owing to the severe repression of foxes, enabled to bring up their broods in safety, and these birds were in greater numbers than in previous years. He was frequently cheered with the sight of young Pipits—a thing he had not seen since the advent of the fox. Mr. Graham observes that the fox, besides preying largely on both young and adult Magpies (Gymnorhina leuconota), is also the cause of the destruction of many of those birds at the hands of trappers, who find the Magpie a very effective bait, and one easily obtained.—W. J. STEPHEN. Robinson’s-road, Hawthorn (Vic.), 3/8/09. * * * WARTY-FACED HONEY-EATERS AND FRIAR-BIRDS.— During the late winter Warty-faced Honey-eaters (AZeliphaga phrygia) have been unusually plentiful in this locality ; ever since March last they have been with us in thousands. While riding through the bush one hears their peculiar notes all day long. I have never previously known the white box (Eucalyptus hemzphloia) to flower so freely ; this probably accounts for the presence of * Acacias usually have yellowish flowers. —EDs. Emu 94 Sivay Feathers. 1st Oct. Honey-eaters in such numbers. Leather-heads or Friar-Birds (Tropidorhynchus corniculatus) nave also remained with us during the whole winter. The Warty-faced Honey-eaters are now breeding, the first nest (with eggs) being observed on the 16th August; it was built in a heap of rubbish left by a flood in the bed of the Hunter River. Several other nests have since been seen in Casuarina trees growing on the river banks.—H. L. WHITE. Belltrees, N.S.W., 28/8/09. * * *k MIGRATION QUERIES.—Is anything definite known of the movements of the Ground-Parrakeet (Pezoporus formosus) ? When walking through tussocky plains, about 50 miles from here, I used to flush them from almost beneath my feet. They would fly 40 or 50 yards, then drop again into the herbage. This was always about February or March. Never saw them in winter or spring. Where do they winter? Their flight seems very feeble—quite incapable of a long journey. Pipit (Axthus australis)—There seems to be a movement of this species away from the coast in April and back in Sep- tember, although quite a number stay with us also. Do they cross to the mainland, or are they merely nomadic? There appears to be nothing definite known as to the movements of this bird or of Coractna parvirostr¢s (Small-billed Cuckoo- Shrike) among naturalists over here, although Mr. Atkinson believes the Coraczva winters on the east coast of this island.— H. STUART DOVE. West Devonport (Tas.), 7/8/09. * * * RED-BROWED TREE-CREEPER.—From evidence gathered this year, I think it is safe to conclude that the Red-browed Tree- creeper (C/z:macterts erythrops) is a resident of south-eastern Vic- toria, and not a casual visitor, as I at first surmised. When I secured a specimen of this species on the 30th January, 1909, at Olinda, I thought it was probably a stray, for, although a sharp look-out was kept, no other birds of the species were noticed in the locality. I spent a week-end at Olinda, with other bird- observers, from the 5th to 7th June, and it was then that several pairs of birds were noticed. Ona recent trip to Beaconsfield (about 20 miles south of Olinda), in company with Mr. F. E. Wilson, two pairs of these birds were seen and others heard call- ing. This was on 6th August. Mr. Wilson saw a pair at Beaconsfield about a month previously, in a different locality to those last observed. On every occasion when C. erythrops was observed it was noticed the timber was principally white and peppermint gums (eucalypts) and bordering a creek. The usual call of this bird is a silvery, bell-like trill of exceeding sweetness. © Vol. IX. 1909 Stray Feathers. 95 It is easily distinguished from the notes of C. deucophea. With the majority of birds the male has a brighter and more con- spicuous plumage than the female, but our Tree-creepers prove an exception to this rule. The female of C. evythrops has broad buff markings on the breast, which are quite absent in the male. There is also a difference between the sexes in C. scandens and C. leucophea—\L. G. CHANDLER. Melbourne, 16/8/09. * * * CLEVELAND (TASMANIA) NOTES. — The Flame-breasted Robins (Petreca phenicea) have been in this district throughout the winter this year. The Cuckoos left just before Easter week, but the Wood-Swallows (Artamus sordidus), Swallows (Hirundo neoxena), and Tree-Martins (Petrochelidon nigricans) remained until the week following. Very cold weather set in, and they abruptly left. The Small-billed Cuckoo-Shrike (Graucalus parvirostris) quitted these forest lands at the same time as the Swallows. The introduced bird, the English Gold- finch (Carduelis carduelis), was plentiful throughout the summer, and nested freely in the various gardens of the township. They have, however, been absent since March. These birds are very fond of the seeds of the cornflowers. I heard the Goldfinches were to be seen in great numbers at Latrobe, near Devonport, during June. During a climbing trip up Ben Lomond last Easter, I noticed a Pink-breasted Robin (Petrwca rhodinogastra) among the dwarf trees on the slopes of the mountain. On the summit I flushed two Field-Wrens (Calamanthus fuliginosus) and saw a Scarlet-breasted Robin (Petrewca leggiz), a pair of Mountain-Ducks (Casarca tadornoides) on Lake Baker (a lake on the mountain’s plateau), and a fine Wedge-tailed Eagle (Uroactus audax). This latter was not in sight until a dog belonging to our party started yelping because he had become separated from his master, who had climbed a rocky wall. The Eagle came flying up from the valley below and poised high above the dog, evidently wondering at the unusual noise. It was a picture to be remembered : the dog frantically trying to climb the rock; the human figures further up; and above all, in the clear air, the magnificent bird. After a while the latter soared higher and then flew away. A flock of twenty Miners (Myzantha garrula) have spent the winter in the back-yard here, and are fed daily with crumbs, &c., on the window-sill.—(MIss) uN. FLETCHER: |.30/7/09; * * * NOTES ON THE BLACK-TAILED NATIVE-HEN (MICRO- TRIBONYX VENTRALIS).—I have noticed that several corre- spondents to “‘ Nature Notes” in Zhe Argus have written about this fascinating bird, which is so well known to us of the r ry 5 Emu 96 Stray Feathers. GORE northern plains. Most of the notes sent remarked on the appearance of these birds in large flocks before heavy rain, and it is on the “ weather prophesying” powers and several other interesting habits of these birds that | am writing these notes. This graceful bird may often be seen, irrespective of flood or drought, in some parts of this district. Indeed, I have seen them on a practically dry creek, where waterholes were very few and far between. I first noticed in the latter end of 1907 that small flocks haunted the above-mentioned creek, which was getting drier every week. This, coupled with the fact that the birds showed no intention of going, roused my interest, and I gave more time to recording numbers than I had hitherto done. By the end of November, and during the first two or three weeks of the ensuing month, their numbers increased rapidly. True, we had numbers of grasshoppers, but, knowing that this bird is essentially a water-loving one, I began to ask myself whether it was possible that their increase meant an early hint of the drought. On the 26th December my views were confirmed, for we had the most bounteous rain that one engaged in pastoral pursuits could ever wish to see.- Three inches fell, and very soon the creek and all watercourses were flooded. The birds increased, and evidently enjoyed themselves, but as soon as the creek stopped running, which it soon did, owing to the great heat of January and February, they left in companies almost as suddenly as they had come. Their departure was no mean omen, for we had real drought till the middle of the following May, when they returned again shortly before the break, although not in Jarge numbers. My next observations come into this present year. I write now from what we term the low country of the plains, as it is more or less composed of swamp and rough black, crab-holey cattle country. The above notes were taken on the same creek, but on the high red country of the plains. I find that there is a great difference in the two as regards the Hens, for, while they can be found at any time in larger or smaller numbers in the high country, it is only at certain times that they visit us here. About 1oth May, 1909, these birds came in vast numbers to the high country, and literally swarmed the banks of the creek. On the 13th a very heavy rain set in, and by the 15th 3 inches had fallen. As may be expected, the creek came down in tremendous flood in a couple of days, but scarcely had the rain started when the birds were to be seen in vast flocks congregated on the higher ground above flood-level, eating moths, flying ants, and other unfortunate water-logged insects. Though this place is only 3% miles as the Crow flies from the high country, the flood waters of first rains take three or four days to reach here, but before that time we had huge flocks of these birds Vol. IX. 1909 Stray Feathers. 07 gathering. They stayed here in the inundated country till the flood waters drained away,and then they too left. From the end of May till the 20th of June there was not a single specimen to be seen here, although there were plenty to be seen in the high country along the creek. On the above date I was taking a stroll, looking at my grass and stock, when I came upon a huge flock of these birds, which had come down the creek apparently from the high country. I instantly thought of more rain, and, sure enough, on the 23rd we had a fall of 77 points. This brought the creek down in flood again, and the birds were here, just as they were previously, in large flocks, and stayed only till the waters subsided. Since that date we have had continuous rains, and this part is practically under water all round, but I have seen no sign of these “ forecasters” since that flood. I conclude that they only appear in dryish spells before a flood or heavy rain. Although their coming and going is practically instantaneous, from observations (if it is the same body seen) I think that they come from the north, although, in the last-mentioned flood, if they came from the high country they travelled from the south-east to north-west. In May I was able to make the following observations, which might prove interesting to ornithologists :—Thursday, 20th May.—Round the house under water on the south-east and east side, and here were to be seen tremendous flocks of these birds. Roughly estimating, as one does a flock of sheep, there must have been anything between 3co and 400 Hens. I was hiding behind a hedge, and was within 20 yards of the nearest birds. When feeding, every now and then one or two of these birds will run round in a small circle, violently flapping their wings, and then end up by running swiftly with both wings outspread, but motionless, and necks stretched forward. They will then come to a dead stop. The running bird generally stops by another one which is feeding, and that one instantly takes up the running, so during feeding there is generally one on the run. My opinion is that they do this in order to disturb hidden insects, although the ground was very wet. Other birds were in deeper water, immersing themselves time after time. Then, coming out, after plunging the head and shoulders under the water, they would shake themselves and repeat the performance. Other birds were running up a stout gum-tree, standing at an angle of about 70 degrees. These would perch on the nearly vertical trunk, and then fly off it again. They did not seem to me to be able to cling on for long. When feeding they were fairly quiet, but every now and then one would give a peculiar sharp cry. Their szexu consisted chiefly of small black crickets, which are washed out of the cracks in the ground in countless numbers.—E. J. CHRISTIAN. Wingi Park, Milloo P.O., vid Prairie (Vic.), 30/7/09. 98 Forgotten Feathers. ue Forgotten Feathers. By GREGORY M. MATHEWS, F.L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. PETROPHASSA RUFIPENNIS (ROCK-PIGEON).—The type of this bird was got in Arnhem Land, about the sources of the South Alligator River, in 1894 or 1895. On t1th November, 1845, Leichhardt, about the same locality, saw this bird. He says:—“ A new species of Rock-Pigeon (Petrophassa, Gould) with a dark brown body, primaries light brown without any white, and with the tail feathers rather worn, lived in pairs and small flocks like Geophaps, and flew out of the shade of overhanging rocks, or from the moist wells which the natives had dug in the bed of the creek, around which they clustered like flies round a drop of syrup.”* Thus 50 years went by after the bird had been first seen before it was described. This bird also has the metallic coppery-violet spot, almost concealed, on some of the upper wing coverts and one of the inner secondaries, the same as P. albipennzs. In the original description of P. rufipennzs it was stated that these spots were not there. The bird in my collection is a male. From Magazines, &c. VIsIT TO AUSTRALIA.—In The Avicultural Magazine (March and May numbers) Mr. David Seth-Smith, F.Z.S., continues (vzde Emu, viii. p. 223) his pleasantly written field observations. With Mr. A. J. Campbell and Messrs. C. C. and T. A. Brittlebank, Mr. Seth-Smith visited the famous Werribee Gorge, Victoria, where a goodly number of birds were identified and field observations made. A photograph is given of a scene in the Gorge, also of a typical gum-tree (eucalypt) in flower, the feasting ground of Lorikeets. Another account describes Ferntree Gully, in the Dandenongs, and its feathered inhabitants ; also a visit to Miss Helen Bowie’s aviaries, and the birds seen in the Botanic Gardens, Melbourne. Of all the birds Mr. Seth-Smith saw in Australia, he “liked none so well as the glorious little Blue Wren.” # * * FLIGHT OF AUSTRALIAN MUTTON-BIRDS IN THE NORTH PaciFic.—* On the 25th of August, for the only time during my stay at Pacific Beach, Washington, the fog lifted sufficiently about an hour before dark to enable me to see for a long distance off shore. To my surprise and extreme gratification * « Journal of an Overland Expedition in Australia,” by Dr. Ludwig Leichhardt (1847), p- 476. Vol. IX. 1909 From Magazines, &¢ 99 an immense flight of Shearwaters was in full progress ; for as far as the eye could reach from north to south there was an unbroken ribbon of birds. This ribbon had a_ width of about ten birds, all flying north and flapping leisurely just above the surface of the water. They were about eight hundred yards off shore, and a strong field-glass showed them to be all similar in colour to the dead Slender-billed Shearwaters (Puffinus tenutrostris) picked up on the beach. I watched the flight from time to time until it was obscured by darkness, but there was no diminution of the numbers, and it was impossible to tell when it stopped or how long it had been going on before I was able to see it. Foggy weather during the remainder of my stay made further observations on this subject impossible.” —J. H. Bowles, Tacoma (Condor, Jan.—Feb., 1909). * * * THE CITING OF “ AUTHORITIES.’—In a short paper, entitled “Remarks on the Practice of Attaching ‘ Authorities’ to the Scientific Names of Animals,” in Ze /dzs for July last, Mr. P. L. Sclater, D.Sc., F.R.S., makes some pertinent observations, in which he deprecates the custom as being burdensome and unnecessary and as tending to establish “a trinomial system of nomenclature instead of the simple binomial system of Linneus.” The writer does not consider it advisable that the name of the author who first described the species should be always added to the name, and thinks that “ in the case of the less-known species it would be much better to give, when it is considered necessary, a reference to the original description of the species or to some standard work (such as the ‘ Catalogue of Birds in the British Museum’) in which it has been described.” Dr. Sclater concludes his paper in the following words :— I will not on the present occasion go into the vexed question of ‘sub-species’ and how to call them, but merely repeat the conclusions I have come to on this subject as follows :—(1.) That the ‘authority’ (as it is usually called) does not form a part of the scientific name of any species, but, when added, is merely for convenience of reference. (2.) That in the case of the names of all well-known species the ‘ authority’ is quite unneces- sary and may be altogether omitted.” * * * BIRD-MIGRATION.—The problems relating to migration have long been the subject of patient research by scientists. Ornithologists especially, on many occasions, have dealt with the intricate question concerning the migration of birds, and have attempted to explain the causes governing this world-wide avine habit. In Sretesh Lerds, iti. No. 1, one of the honorary members of the Aust. O.U., Dr. J. A. Allen, Curator of Birds Emu : : I0O From Magazines, &c. repels and Mammals, American Museum of Natural History, deals succinctly with the migratory movement. In the main he is in accord with the “ Principles Governing Movement in Cuckoos and Migration of Birds,” as expressed by Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, C.M.Z.S., in The Emu, v., p. 145, and vi., p. 33, wherein it has been shown that the movement is not attributable to instinct. The extent of the seasonal movement varies in different species, mainly in accordance with the nature of their food, and is also more or less correlated with their powers of flight. There is every degree of migratory movement in different species of birds, from slight nomadic movements to extended migration in ccordance with the physiological needs of the species. The life of a bird, like that of most animals and plants, is made up of annual cycles. The controlling force that governs these cycles and determines the manner of life of the species is the fundamental fiat of Nature—“to increase and multiply ”— the perpetuation of the life of the species. The influence governing the selection of a breeding-site is the approach of the breeding season. The cause of the seasonal movement or migration is thus beyond question physiologic, and hence periodic and irresistible. If climatic conditions were everywhere uniform, there would be no migration. Migratory birds, of whatever class, which seek high latitudes for breeding stations find there the conditions most favourable for reproduction as regards not only food but the general environment. The sole and all-sufficient cause of migration is the necessity of a congenial environment for the reproduction of the species. The inception of the movement is the periodic necessity of reproduction, and the journey to the breeding station, be it long or short, is made in obedience to physiologic changes which the bird is powerless to resist or control. The return journey is a natural and necessary sequence. Except figuratively speaking, one cannot ascribe the cause of the migratory movement to “strong home-love.” Young birds when left behind join the general throng of migrants, which includes birds of many species. The migratory habit is of the highest antiquity, and is an inseparable part of the evolution of the species. It is a specific trait of their physical characteristics. Many birds not much unlike existing types—belonging in many instances to the same genera—existed in tertiary times. Since this period the earth’s surface has undergone great physical and climatic changes, which have in turn immensely modified not only the distribution but the physical characters of its inhabitants. These facts furnish good ground for the belief that bird migration, possibly already incipient at this remote period, became emphasized and mainly developed by the recession of glaciation. It is recognized that birds are endowed with the ability to remember and recognize land-marks, hence Vol. IX. 1909 From Magazines, &c. Io. their ability to find their way in migration is not a “ mystery.” It is also conceded that birds are endowed with a great sensi- tiveness to atmospheric conditions and readily recognize approaching changes of weather. Birds migrate from areas of high barometric pressure to areas of low barometric pressure. In the northern hemisphere the direction is northward in spring and southward in autumn. Migration is coincident with these changes, which govern the birds’ direction on migration to a large extent. Besides being endowed with remarkable sensitive- ness to meteorological conditions, they also seem to be endowed with some sense of direction, as yet unexplainable. It will therefore be seen that the migratory movement is due to the stimuli of the environment, which induce physiological change, and is therefore opposed to instinctive movement.—A. H. E. M. Da at * * * “A JOURNEY TO BRITISH NEW GUINEA IN SEARCH OF BIRDS-OF-PARADISE.”—In The ozs for April, 1909, Mr. Charles B. Horsburgh contributes under this title a very readable narra- tive of an expedition to the interior of British New Guinea, undertaken in the interests of Sir William Ingram. While some general collecting was done, the main purpose of the party was to obtain a collection of live Birds-of-Paradise. Mr. Horsburgh was accompanied by Mr. W. Stalker, who had previously been for some time engaged in collecting birds and mammals for Sir William Ingram in the Northern Territory of Australia. On arrival at Port Moresby some little difficulty was experi- enced in securing the services of a sufficient number of “ boys ” to act as interpreters and servants. From Port Moresby the party proceeded to Yule Island, where they were hospitably entertained and assisted in their arrangements by Mr. N. H. M. Bowden, the Resident Magistrate. On the toth of March, accompanied by Mr. Bowden, who had official business in that village, they left Yule Island in a whaleboat and some native canoes for the passage up the beautiful Ethel River to Bioto. Next morning they commenced their journey to Madiu, in the mountains, which place was reached on the afternoon of the third day after leaving Bioto. Here an unoccupied mission-house was converted into a camp, a three-hours’ journey being made next morning to the Mission Station at Dilava to request permission to occupy the house, which was readily accorded. On the route from Bioto many birds were seen or heard, including Parrots, the Crowned Pigeon (Goura coronata) and other Pigeons, Marquis Raggi Bird-of-Paradise (Paradisea raggiana), Cassowaries, a Frogmouth (Podargus intermedius), White Cockatoos, Hornbills, &c. Once settled at the mission-house, with the assistance of the natives collecting went on apace. Mr. Horsburgh says :—“For the next three weeks our daily Emu I02 From Magazines, &c. rst Oct. routine did not vary much. Live birds, mammals, and reptiles came in to such an extent that our collapsible cages were soon filled, and we had to build two large avaries under the house. These measured roughly about 6 x 8 x 5 feet, and into one of them we turned all the Hunstein’s Paradise-Birds, which soon became tame enough to feed from our hands. The other held several sorts of Doves and some Raggi’s Paradise-Birds. No single day passed without some addition to our collection, and in reviewing our united experience with European and other birds, Stalker and I agreed that we had never handled such confiding and fearless creatures as these. They would usually take food from our hands within three days of their capture. The Hunstein’s Birds-of-Paradise were the first examples of this family brought in. The males clear a small open space on the ground in which to display their beautiful plumage to a number of admiring females. It is an easy matter for the natives, who are all aware of this habit, to arrange a net near these ‘ dancing grounds, and at an opportune moment to frighten the birds into its meshes by a sudden shout and clapping of hands.” These birds were found to be more delicate than the other species, while Parotza lawest (Lawes Bird-of-Paradise) proved to be quite hardy, and quickly became very tame. Six specimens of one of the Bower-Birds (/uredus melanocephalus) were procured, as well as a few examples of Amblyornis subalarts (Subalar Bower-Bird), and Phonygama purpureo-violacea and P. chalybeata (Manucodes), a single specimen only being obtained of the latter species. A pair of Pigmy Parrots (Vaszterna) and single examples of Lophorphina minor, Pitta macklote, and Rhectes dicrous were brought into camp, but none of these survived the rough treatment they had received at the hands of their native captors. Before leaving New Guinea Mr. Horsburgh received two splendid Rifle- Birds (Pézlorhzs entercedens), one of which, unfortunately, died from an injury, but the other was safely transported to London. In order to catch a convenient steamer—vessels calling at Yule Island only at intervals of 10 weeks—Mr. Horsburgh left Madiu on 14th April, being accompanied as far as Yule Island by Mr. Stalker, who, however, was to return and proceed farther into the interior in quest of the splendid Prince Rudolph Bird-of- Paradise. Mr. Horsburgh shipped his precious cargo at Yule Island without mishap, but on arrival at Cooktown, owing to the regulations prohibiting the importation of birds, &c., into Queensland, had some difficulty in transhipping his collections. However, the sanction of the Secretary for Agriculture at Brisbane was received in time to catch the ss. Wodonga for Sydney. On arrival there his collections were accommodated at the Zoological Gardens until 24th May, when they were placed on board the s.s. Vectorta, and, reaching London on 28th o_o . Vol. IX. 1909 From Magazines, &c. I03 June, were handed over to the authorities of the Zoological Society. An appendix to the paper, in addition to the Birds- of-Paradise taken Home by Mr. Horsburgh, gives a list of a consignment received later in London from Mr. Stalker, which included specimens of all those in Mr. Horsburgh’s collection, and, in addition, one example of the coveted Prince Rudolph Bird-of-Paradise (Paradzsornis rudolpht). Review. [‘‘A Monograph of the Petrels (Order Tubinares).” By F. Du Cane Godman, DAC ebickeS., OC: ParT IV. of this excellent work has been received. In con- nection with the important publication the following remarks have been kindly written for this journal by Mr. H. Hamilton, Director of the Dominion Museum, New Zealand. The preceding notices* have been written from an Australian point of view. Mr. Hamilton’s review will be of interest because of its New Zealand standpoint :— Ornithologists have been looking forward with great interest to the elaborate “Monograph of the Petrels,’ by F. Du Cane Godman, which has been for some time in preparation, the printing of which has been much delayed by the unfortunate illness of the author. The work is more specially interesting to New Zealand and Australian ornitho- logists as the Petrels, using the term in its widest sense, of the Southern Pacific are difficult to identify, and their synonymy is much involved. The work is to consist of five parts, four of which have reached New Zealand. In the four parts 99 species are described, and in most cases beautifully figured by Keulemans. Part I. is dated 1907. It may be of interest to give a list and a rough outline of the various views on the Petrels found in the New Zealand seas. It is needless to mention the character of the illustrations, as the name of the author sufficiently guarantees their excellence, the plates being drawn from either the type or from specimens selected by the author from standard collec- tions. To every species there isa full synonymy, and there is little doubt that the work will remain the standard on this very difficult group for a long time. OCEANITES OCEANICUS, Kuhl. (Wilson Storm-Petrel), Pl. 12.—One of the most widely distributed of the whole order Tubinares, It has the web of the feet partly yellow. Additional information by the Antarctic Expedition is given as to the occurrence of these birds on the polar pack ice. It appears to have been found also by the Scottish Antarctic Expedition at the South Orkney Islands, and it is evidently widely distributed, as specimens have been found in the British seas. The first authentic egg appears to have been taken at Kerguelen Island. GARRODIA NEREIS, Gould (Grey-backed Storm-Petrel), Pl. 14.—A very common New Zealand species, discovered by Gould on his expedition to Australia in 1830. * Emu, iv., p. 205; viii, pp. 45 and 228. 104 Review. Emu ist Oct. PELAGODROMA MARINA, Lath. (White-faced Storm-Petrel), Pl. 15.— Thalassidvoma fregata (nec L.), Buller’s “ Birds of New Zealand,’ p. 321 (1873). PEALEA LINEATA, Peale (Peale Storm-Petrel), Pl. 16—Only three specimens are known. One was presented to the British Museum by Mr. G. Carrick Steet, who procured it in the neighbourhood of Banks Peninsula, New Zealand. Bonaparte mentions the specimen in the Paris Museum as having been procured in 1829, during the voyage of the Astrolabe, off the East Cape, in the North Island. CYMODROMA MELANOGASTER, Gould (Black-bellied Storm-Petrel), Pl. 17.—A very full discussion is given of this species. CYMODROMA GRALLARIA, Vieill. (White-bellied Storm-Petrel).— This has been found in several localities near the Australian coasts, but has not yet been recorded from New Zealand, and probably has escaped recognition. PUFFINUS BULLERI, Salvin (Buller Shearwater), Pl. 23.— Six examples of this rare bird are now known. It is interesting to find that it has been recorded from Point Pinos, California. PUFFINUS CHLORORHYNCHUS, Lesson (Wedge-tailed Shearwater), Pl. 24.—This is the same as P. carnetpes (nec Gould), Cheeseman, and one of the Mutton-Birds of Australian naturalists. The bird has a long and intricate synonymy. PUFFINUS OBSCURUS, Gm. (Dusky Shearwater), Pl. 34.—A specimen is recorded from New Zealand, but Sir Walter Buller was never able to confirm its existence here. It is, however, common further north in the Pacific. PuFFINUS GAviA, Forster (Forster Shearwater), Pl. 32.—This bird was discovered in Queen Charlotte Sound, New Zealand, during the voyage of Captain Cook, but was not described until 1844. This is the North Island Mutton-Bird, and they are taken by the Maoris in great numbers in the month of February, at Whale Island, in the Bay of Plenty. PUFFINUS ASSIMILIS, Gould (Gould Shearwater), Pl. 35.— This species is confined apparently to the northern portion of New Zealand. Much information will be found under this species and subsequent ones as to the ‘Mutton-Birds,’’ which are largely used for food on the various islands, and which belong to several genera and species. It is quite possible that this conclusion may have to be modified by the researches of the party who spent ten months on the Kermadec Islands, as they claim to have made exhaustive observations on the birds of the main island at any rate. PUFFINUS CARNEIPES, Gould (Pink-footed Shearwater), Pl. 37.— Common on the coasts of New Zealand. Breeds plentifully on White Island. PUFFINUS GRISEUS, Gm. (Sooty Shearwater), Pl. 38.—New South Wales, Norfolk Island, and the Kermadecs. PUFFINUS TENUIROSTRIS, Temm. (Short-tailed Shearwater), Pl. 39.— Breeds in burrows on Kaimanawa and inland ranges, New Zealand. It has apparently a very extensive range both north and south of the equator. This bird is largely used by the New Zealand natives as an article of food when in the young state. (This is the well-known Mutton-Bird of the Bass Strait isLands.—Eps. Emu.) Vol. IX. 7 05 Review. TO5 PRIOFINUS CINEREUS, Gm. (Great Grey Shearwater), Pl. 41.—This appears to be an occasional visitor, as Captain Fairchild procured one between Wellington and the Chatham Islands.* THALASSHCA ANTARCTICA, Gm. (Antarctic Fulmar), Pl. 42.—All Southern explorers have seen this bird, and Dr. Wilson, of the Discovery, saw T. antarctica in the Pacific soon after leaving New Zealand, and until within four days of his arrival at the Cape ; so we expect to add this species to our list at any time. PRIOCELLA GLACIALOIDES, Smith (Silvery-grey Fulmar), Pl. 43.— Several specimens of this species have been secured in New Zealand. MAJAQUEUS #QUINOCTIALIS, Linn. (White-chinned Black Fulmar), Pl. 44.—Although this bird has been taken on the Tasmanian and New South Wales coasts, it is rare in New Zealand, but is found at the Auckland Islands. It is known almost everywhere to sailors in Southern waters as the ‘“‘ Cape-Hen,’’ the Australian form, M. con- sptcillatus, having the nostrils and the sides of the mandibles a yellowish-horn colour and other points whereby the two specimens may be distinguished. Also used as food where it occurs. MAJAQUEUS PARKINSONI, Gray (Parkinson Black Fulmar), Pl. 45.— Fairly common in New Zealand. CESTRELATA MACROPTERA, Smith (Long-winged Fulmar), Pl. 46.— This is the M. gouldi of Buller. CESTRELATA LESSONI, Garnot (White-headed Fulmar), Pl. 48.—This handsome bird is rare in New Zealand, but known in most of the Australian seas CESTRELATA PARVIROSTRIS, Peale (Phoenix Island Fulmar), Pl. 52. CESTRELATA INCERTA, Schlegel (Schlegel Fulmar), Pl. 53.—This bird appears to be widely distributed and a not very common species. CESTRELATA MOLLIS, Gould (Soft-plumaged Fulmar), Pl. 54.—There is said to be a series of this species in the Auckland Museum from the Kermadecs, but the author has not been able to confirm the identifi- cation. Mr. Cheeseman informs me that they were identified as mollis by Sir Walter Butler. CESTRELATA NIGRIPENNIS, Rothschild (Kermadec Fulmar), Pl. 59. CESTRELATA CERVICALIS, Salvin (Sunday Island Fulmar), Pl. 63.— From the Kermadec Group. Now separated from C2. externa. CESTRELATA NEGLECTA, Schlegel (Phillip Fulmar), Pl. 64.—A very variable species, with a wide range. CESTRELATA GULARIS, Peale (Mottled Fulmar), Pl. 68.—Affinis of Buller, &c. CESTRELATA LEUCOPTERA, Gould, Pl. 69.—Not hitherto on our lists, but seen by Gould to the north of New Zealand and in the seas of Queensland and New South Wales. CESTRELATA COOKI, Gray, Pl. 71.—Northern parts of New Zealand. Several of these are in the New Zealand Museums. CESTRELATA AXILLARIS, Salvin (Chatham Island Fulmar), Pl. 72. MACRONECTES (OSSIFRAGA) GIGANTEA, Jacq. and Puches, Pl. 76 — * Birds and eggs have also been collected on Macquarie Island— ‘‘ Nests and Eggs ” (Campbell), p. 896.—Ebs. 106 Review. Emu tst Oct. The white form of this bird is noticed. I myself saw two on Macquarie Island. DAPTION CAPENSIS, Linn. (Cape Fulmar or “ Cape-Pigeon’’), Pl. 80. HALOBANA C#RULEA, Gm. (Blue Petrel), Pl. 81. PRION VITTATUS,*Gm. (Brown-billed Blue Fulmar), Pl. 82.—The author points out the variations which occur in the lamelle and the bill, making it not always possible to separate P. vittatus and P. banksi. When these birds are thrown up on the shore, as they sometimes are in great numbers, it is possible to form a series which run very much one into the other. PRION BANKSI, Smith (Banks Blue Petrel), Pl. 83. PRION DESOLATUS, Gm. = P. TURTUR (Dove-like Petrel), Pl. 84. Description of the Nest and Eggs of the White- bellied Thickhead (Pachycephala lanioides).* By Sip. W. JACKSON, A.O.U., CHATSWooD, N.S.W. Ldenttfication—Collected by Mr. F. L. Whitlock for Mr. H. L. White, at Condon, North-West Australia, on 30th October, 1908. NVest.—Contructed entirely of roots, very fine ones being used for the lining. Diameter of nest over all, 6 inches; egg cavity, 3% inches across by I inch in depth. Roots are well fastened together, with the exception of the extreme outside portion, where they are a little loose. Eggs.—Two in number, and oval in shape, the texture of the shell being fine and very glossy ; colour light olive, with a moderately marked belt of umber or dark olive-brown and dull (underlying) spots on the larger ends. Measurements in inches : —(a) 1.04 x 0.73 inches ; (4) 1.01 x 0.73 inches. Correspondence. A STANDARD COLOUR-CHART. To the Editors of “ The Emu.” SIRS,—Since addressing you on the subject of a standard colour-chart in the last issue of Ze Hmu, I have ascertained that our esteemed honorary member, Professor Robert Ridgway, Curator Division of Birds, United States National Museum, had published in 1886 a book called “A Nomenclature of Colours for Naturalists and Compendium of Useful Knowledge for Ornithologists.” This book, of which there appears to be no copy in Australia, so far as I can ascertain, contains much of the * For field remarks see Whitlock, Az, viii., pp. 143-145. Gould founded this species on a single male specimen. Robt. Hall described the female in 1901—v2de Vict. Nat., xvili., p. 30. THE Emu, Vol. LX. PLATE VII, “NOSHOWP “M “GIS A@ "OLOHd V WOH (‘ozIs [ernzeu AyTIvaN)~ ‘(saprotuny wyvydartyav) PR9YAIYT, Pe[eq-avlyA Jo sssqy pue json hin A a ty ao Correspondence. LO? information which my letter desired should be embodied in a book of convenient size. This excellent work of Professor Ridgway should be of great assistance to a committee in arriving at a uniform standard colour-chart. An official system of nomenclature of colours for naturalists, approved inter- nationally, is urgently needed to prevent the chaos of colour descriptions which exists in many branches of natural history at the present time. Precision of colour description will be a distinct gain to science.—Yours, &c., orld Bo VA TIN GEN Melbourne, 4/9/09. Notes and Notices. “THE Emu,” VOL. I—Mr. F. E. Howe, 39 Young-street, Albert Park (Vic.), would be glad to purchase any parts of this volume if extant and for sale. BROINOWSKI'S “ BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA.” —A large and useful work on Australian birds, containing over 700 coloured illustrations, originally issued at 419, is to be sold at £4 Ios. Apply to Acting Hon. Secretary A.O.U. COLOURED FIGURE FUND.—The hon. treasurer (Mr. J. A. Ross) acknowledges with thanks the following contributions to the Coloured Figure Fund, received during the year ending 30th June, 1909 :—Dr. Angove (S.A.), Is. 6d.; F. L. Berney (Q.), 1Os.¢ Viiss Brumby (Tas.), 55.; Mrs. Burrell. (N.S.W.), At hos cert. biisell (NS: We). 5s 3) (Geos Graham (Vie:);. 25; °Gdee ieiGeeray (NGS We) 2s teal. WV. esee \(Uas.), 7s) Gdis J. Pekecers (W.A.), 1s, 6d.3) C.\S. Phompson (U.S.A.).5s. «J. M. iiiomson (Vie!), 551; ihes. Vindale: (Vic); 2s. 6d. ;) S2eP. Townsend (Vic.), 2s. 6d.; H. L. White (N.S.W.) (in addition to £20 for illustrating part 5, vol. vilii.), 44 18s. EGGs OF NINOX OCELLATA.—In rearranging and tabulating my oological collection, I find that typical eggs of Nznox ocellata do not appear to have been described. Comparing mine with: the- type (described, by Mr. D. Le Souéf, C.MUZS, m The Emu, ii. page 86), which I have acquired, they do not agree. An undoubtedly authenticated clutch of Wznxox ocellata, taken by Mr. F. L. Whitlock on the Coongan River, North-West Australia, 5/9/08, are white, round in form, texture inclined to be coarse, surface siightly lustrous. Measurements—(I) 1.7 x ieee 2) 07 X14 76 (3)! 16S: Sok.4 mmehes;s Phose deseribed by Mr. Le Souéf are smaller, more elongate in shape, and more resemble the eggs of Stvzx delicatula.—H. L. WHITE. Belltrees, Scone, N.S.W. 108 Notes and Notices. oe 1st Oct. Bass STRAIT EXPEDITION.—A reunion of the members of the Australasian Ornithologists’ expedition to the Bass Strait islands in November-December last year took place on oth July, 1909, at the Independent Hall, Melbourne, in conjunction with an entertainment given by the Bird Observers’ Club. His — Excellency the Governor and Lady Gibson-Carmichael attended, and the chair was occupied by Mr. E. B. Nicholls, A.O.U. Among those present were—Dr. G. T. Howard and Mrs. Howard, Dr. C. L. Lempriere, Mr. J. A. Leach, M.Sc., and Mrs. Leach, Mr. W. T. Kendall, M.R.C.V.S., and Mrs. Kendall, Dr. S. A. Ewing, Dr. George Horne and Mrs. Horne, Dr. H. W. Bryant. and Misses Bryant, Mr. and Mrs. Mattingley, Mr. Andrew Scott (Elmore), Mr. O. W. Rosenhain, Mr. A. R. Aylwin, Mr. W. A. Shum and Miss Shum, Misses Le Souéf, Mrs. A. J. Campbell and Misses Campbell, Miss Fenton, Misses — Nicholls, Miss B. Wood, Miss Barrett, Messrs. A. H. Kenyon, Z. Gray, and J. Barr. Mr. Donald Macdonald was to have given a history of the expedition, but was unable to attend, through indisposition. Mr. Charles Barrett (hon. sec. B.O.C.) took his place, and, with the aid of a fine selection of lantern slides, described the voyage of the s.s. Manawatu from the time she left Melbourne till she stranded in Western Port Bay. Views were shown of the bird rookeries on Penguin, Cat, Storehouse, and other islands. Mr. A. J. Campbell, Col. M. B.O.U., then gave a very interesting account of the Mutton-Bird (Pujfinus tenuzrostris). He described the wonderful nesting habits of the bird, and explained how the half-castes who live among the islands gather the eggs and the nestlings. The lecturer was warmly applauded. After a brief interval, Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, C.M.Z.S., the leader of the Ornithologists’ expedition, made a few explanatory remarks prior to a display of the cinematograph pictures, which were taken under his direction by Mr. O. Perry, an expert operator. The films were unlike anything yet seen in Mel- bourne. Hundreds of seals were shown clambering about the rocks at Seal Island and making graceful evolutions in the sea. Then appeared on the screen pictures of the great Gannet fe rookery on Cat Island. Thousands of big white birds were seen flying about their nesting-place, and the domestic economy of — the Gannet was shown. The Cormorant films proved equally interesting, and finally the members of the expedition were — shown climbing the rocky hillside at Deal Island. At the conclusion of the display there was hearty applause. During the evening Lady Carmichael was presented with a souvenir album of photographs of the Bass Strait islands and their bird-life. The presentation was made by Miss Fenton, on behalf of the Bird Observers’ Club.— Herald, 10/7/09. + : : AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION. —_—- CO-PATRONS: | Their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales. OFFICE-BEARERS : President: Mr. D. Le SOUEF, C.M.Z.S., &c. fMr. A. J. CAMPBELL, Cor. Mem. B.O.U. (mr. J. W. MELLOR, Acting Hon. Secretary: Mr. A. H. E. MATTINGLEY, C.M.Z.S. _ (c/o Zoological Gardens, Melbourne. Private Address—6 Alfred Street, North Melbourne, Victoria.) Hon. Treasurer: Mr. J. A. ROSS. (Address—Crown Solicitor’s Office, Lonsdale St., Melbourne.) Hon. Librarian: Mr. A. H. E. MATTINGLEY, C.M.Z.S. Press Correspondent: Mr. C. L. BARRETT. Mr. A. J. CAMPBELL, Cort. Mem. B.O.U. Mr. SCOTT MORRISON. Members of Council: SuRGEON-CoLONEL C. S. RYAN (Victoria), Mr. L. HARRISON (New South Wales), Mr. W. M‘SILWRAITH (Queensland), Mr. BERNARD H. WOODWARD, F.G.S. (Western Australia), Mr. A. L. BUTLER (Tasmania), Mr. E. F. STEAD (New Zealand). Vice=Presidents: Editors of The Emu OBJECTS, &c.- - - - SHE objects of the Society are the advancement and popularization of the Science of Ornithology, the protection of useful and ornamental avifauna, and the publication of a magazine called The Emu. The business of the Society shall be conducted by a Council, con- sisting of a President, two Vice-Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer, Librarian, Editors of Ze Emu, and six members; each office-bearer and member of the Council shall retire at the end of each financial year, but shall be eligible for re-election. The Annual Meeting shall be held in one or other of the principal towns of the different States, such State to be decided at the previous Annual Meeting. Every member shall be required to pay an annual subscription of fifteen shillings, due on the first of July each year. (The usual exchange to be added to Foreign, Interstate and Country cheques, drafts, &c.) The offices of the Society shall be at the office of the Hon. Secretary Swe of the Society for the time being, or at such other place as the Council 5 may appoint. ADVERTISEMENTS. PELTON, GRIMWADE « co. Microscopes, Galvanic Batteries, Chemical and Scientific Apparatus, &. St ODS NTS” Mick SSsCoOLl li. . Vo With Sliding Coarse Adjustment, Screw Fine Adjustment Leitz J cieroscopes, Micrometer, Objectives Nos. 3 and 7, Eye-pieces 1 and 3, * IN MAHOGANY CASES. Magnifying 84-600. Mi With Sliding Coarse Adjustment, Screw Fine Natehet’ s ) cieroscopes, Adjustment, Double Mirror, Side Condensing ens, Eye-pieces Nos. 1 and 3, Objectives Nos. 3 and 6, Glass Slip, Cover Glasses, Mounted Object Forceps, Magnifying 80-550. In Mahogany Cases. Microscopic Glass Slips, 3in. x 1in., Extra Thin, Ground Edges and Rough Edges. Microscopic Cover Glasses, Nos. 1 and 3, % gs 3%-in. and %-in. Circles. No. 1 Square, 34-in. and %-in.; No. 3 Square, %-in. and 3f-4 inch ~~ AR RRA AAR RA enn ee 342-6 LITTLE FLINDERS ST., MELBOURNE. Three Nature Books you Need. ANIMALS OF AUSTRALIA ce ee ef s@ By A. H. S. LUCAS and W. H. D. LE SOUEF. Price 15/- Demy 8vo. Splendidly Illustrated. WILD LIFE IN AUSTRALIA e e& ec By W. H. B. LE SOUEF. Price 7/6 Crawn’ 8vo.) Full of [laseamens: | NATURE STUDIES IN AUSTRALIA e ee By WM. GILLIES and ROBT. HALL. | Price 2/6 Revised and Enlarged Edition. WHITCOMBE & TOMBS LIMITED, MELBOURNE. H. J. TROWBRIDGE, | Camera Etouse, 296 COLLINS STREET, neo, THE HOUSE FOR Pie Photo. jYovelties 1 vOw LANDING— SS A Splendid Assortment of HAND and STAND CAMERAS. =|, The 30/* HAND CAMERA is Better Value than many on 5 the Market at Double the Price. y We are not bound to any one make of Camera. We draw our Supplies from the Best ss Houses, wile —asssesescerosasarsenesseressesenoscosons iQ BEST QUALITY! REASONABLE PRICES” Vol. IX.] | JANUARY, 1910. [Part 3. he Emu eo A Quarterly Magazine to popularize the Study and Protection | of Native Birds. | 2 2 @ + OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION. A. J. CAMPBELL, Col. Mem. B.0.U. CHARLES BARRETT. Editors { nnnom 2HelBbourne : xo ysonian WALKER, MAY & CO., PRINTERS, 25 MACKILLOP/ STREET. | org z [ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.] R. H. PORTER, 7 PRINCES STREET, CAVENDISH SQUARE, \W. 4% IDS fs IQIO. Semen (0 27 aren om LONDON AGENT: \- FE B16 CONTENTS - GR ae 1910. (The author of each article is responsible for the facts recorded therein, and any © deductions he may draw.) +7 AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION — NINTH (ADE Res SESSION - - - - : - - - - - =. TOO at PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS: BIRD SANCTUARIES - - - 120 2 THE BIRDS OF EYRE a ieee S. see By Ad ae els a M. Z, ‘Sk al _ Col. Mem. B.O.U. - = ie es 123 NOTES ON THE ROCK-PARRAKEET (Neoriema PETROPHILA). >. By Charles Barrett, Melbourne - : - - ~1Nssee DESCRIPTION OF TWO NESTS AND EGGs. By Sid..Wm. Jackson, a) i: A.O.U., New South Wales - - - ab ae - - 136 | DESCRIPTION OF A NEW caNraie. By Edwin Ashby, Black- ; wood, S.A. - - - - - - - - - - ~ 87 NOTES ON THE GREAT-BILLED HERON (ARDEA SUMATRANA). : By E. M. Cornwall, Mackay, Q. - - . - - - 138 A TRIP TO NINTH ISLAND, Bass STRAIT. By Frank M. Littler, | FLE.S., Launceston. - - - - - - - - - I4!1 BIRDS SEEN IN AND AROUND BROOME, NORTH-WESTERN AUS- TRALIA. By Alan F.. Crossman, F\L.S., F.Z.S., M.B.O.U. = 148 THE BLUE WREN OF TASMANIA: SOME DETAILS OF ITS LIFE- History. Ay A. Stuart Dove, F.Z.S., &¢. - - a > | ON ALBATROSS ISLAND. By W. /. T. Armstrong, Hexham - pepe Dl < First BIRD DAY IN THE COMMONWEALTH. By A. W. Wilson, Melbourne - - = - - - - - : : - 158 — EDIBLE BIRD-NESTS. By Franz Otto Koch - 2 - - - 160 STRAY FEATHERS.—A Robber, 162; Can Birds Retain their Eggs? 162; Amytis macrura Re-discovered, 163; A Tribute to the White-eye, 163; A Cuckoo Day, 163; New Egg for Victoria, 164; Fidelity of the Emu, 164; The March of Civili- zation, 165; Western Australian Birds, 165; A Curious Combat, 166; Maryborough (Vic.) Notes, 167; Charlotte Plains Bird Notes, 167; The Helmeted Honey-eater (Ptilotis cassidix) as Foster-parent to the Pallid Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus), 168 ; Bird Day, 169; Visit to a Night-Heron Rookery, 170; Devonport (Tas.) Notes, 171. FROM MAGAZINES, &C.—New Acanthiza for Australia, 173; Introducing German Owls into New Zealand. 1733 Petrels off the New South Wales Coast, 173; The Shining Cuckoo, 174. REVIEWS) - - - - - - - - - oer ES - 174 CORRESPONDENCE~ - - - - . - BAN? ye - - -175 DEATH OF DR. RICHARD BOWDLER SHARPE - - - - AIM ty ks NOTES AND NOTICES A BURP ORE My Omit Sere sc hak PL GHe MAK rs ANNOUNCEMENTS. Articles (technical papers should if possible be type-written). ines communications intended for publication, also books and publications for || notice, should be addressed to the Editors, Zhe Emu, c/o MR. A. A CAMPBELL, Custom-House, Melbourne. ; I MSS.. of general articles should reach the editors at least six weeks _ a prior to the issue of the number for which they are intended. cae Veet HK Occasionally, when funds permit, it is intended to issue Coloured — te y Plates of hitherto unfigured Australian Birds. Voluntary subscriptions to a “COLOURED FIGURE FUND” are courteously invited from members. t} ~ The price of The Emu to non-members is 4/= per copy. Extra copies may be had by members at half-price. ep / THE Emu, Vol. 1X. PLATE VIII. Mr. D. Le Souéf, C.M.Z.S., Director of the Zoological Gardens, Melbourne (Fourth President of the Australasian Ornithologists’ Union). FROM A PHOTO, BY VANDYCK STUDIOS, “She Emu Official Organ of the Australasian Ornithologists’ G@nion. | “ Birds of a feather.” Vor. TX Ist JANUARY, toro. [PART 3 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. NINTH (ADELAIDE) SESSION. MINUTES OF THE NINTH ANNUAL SESSION OF THE AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION, HELD AT ADELAIDE, FROM THE 30TH SEPTEMBER TO 4TH OCTOBER, 1909. First Day. On Thursday, 30th September, several visiting ornithologists from other States arrived in Adelaide, and were met and welcomed by South Australian members of the Union as well as others. In the afternoon the members were entertained by Sir Samuel and Lady Way at a reception at ‘‘Montefiore.’’ The gathering, which was a large one, was both brilliant and successful. The birds which roamed at liberty on the lawns, as well as those domiciled in aviaries, were inspected, and their many points of interest were dis- cussed by those present. A pleasant two hours were thus passed. A water-colour drawing of a Wattle-Bird by Mrs. Ellis Rowan was added by the Council of the Union to Sir Samuel Way’s valuable art collection. In the evening the first general meeting of the session was held in the Royal Society’sroom. Mr. Le Souéf, the president, occupied the chair. The undermentioned members were present, despite the severity of the weather, viz.:—Messrs. A. J. Campbell, R. Hall, Ae HC Zitz, C:M-Z.s., F.R. Zietz, KR. Crompton, €: Crompton, A. H.E. Mattingley, J. W. Mellor, sen., J. W. Mellor, jun., J. A. Leach, O. W. Rosenhain, H. H. D. Griffith, Dr. R. Pulleine, Dr. A. M. Morgan, Captain and Mrs. S. A. White, and Mr. and Mrs. H. Burrell. Apologies were received from Mr. H. L. White, Mr. E. Ashby, and Mr. B. Woodward, all of whom regretted their inability to be present. Mr. J. W. Mellor, the vice-president of the Union, welcomed the delegates to South Australia, and said that he hoped that they would have a happy as well as a useful time, and he was glad to see sO many Visitors present from other States. The Chairman acknowledged the kindly welcome. He said the South Australian members had manifested practical enthusiasm in the work of the Union. The work in that State had not, he believed, been surpassed in the Commonwealth. Emu ist Jan. I1o0 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. Cuckoos.—A valuable paper was then read by Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, C.M.Z.S., &c., on ‘*Cuckoos.” “It has been con- tended,’ he said, ‘that Cuckoos select suitable foster-parents, and with diabolical cunning place their eggs in nests of other birds whose eggs harmonize in colour with those laid by the Cuckoo. The statistical data obtained by me, the careful com- parison of which has taken me several months to prepare, shows that these haphazard statements have no foundation whatever in fact. Only an infinitesimal percentage of Cuckoo eggs closely approximate the colour, shape, markings, and size of those of their foster-parents. Then, again, instances are fairly numerous in which the Cuckoo, an insectivorous bird, places its eggs in the nests of graminivorous birds, with the result that the young Cuckoos, after being hatched out, invariably die for want of proper nourish- ment, due to the lack of insect food, so necessary in their rearing, and which is not supplied them by their grain-eating foster- parents. The placing of their eggs in the nests of graminivorous birds by Cuckoos shows that their so-called instinct is either at fault or non-present. Then, again, we have Cuckoos placing their eggs in the nests of other birds already containing Cuckoos’ eggs. Had the Cuckoo the knowledge, instinctive or otherwise, of the habit possessed by its young ones of ejecting any other occupant of the nest, be it eggs or young foster-brethren, it would most assuredly have placed its eggs in the nest of some other bird devoid of eggs of the Cuckoo tribe, so as to enable its offspring to survive. Then, again, the size of the bird and the colour of plumage of the foster- parents selected is in most cases disproportionate. The type of nest, too, selected by the same species of Cuckoo’ varies con- siderably. Most of the Cuckoos also place their eggs in nests that are much too small for their offspring when it has grown to a size ready to fly away. The comfort of their offspring is apparently not considered by Cuckoos. In not a single authentic case have I been able to trace the peculiar habits that Cuckoos possess of foisting the incubation of their eggs on to other species of birds, as well as the feeding and rearing of their young afterwards, to an instinctive habit. We are led to believe that instincts, so-called, are never-erring, but with the Cuckoos their methods are hap- hazard and full of error, hence one cannot attribute the peculiarities surrounding the nidification of Cuckoos as due to never-erring instincts. The mass of statistical data in my paper will once and for all time, I hope, settle the vexed question, generally accepted by casual observers, that Cuckoos select the nests of foster-parents in which to place their eggs that lay similar eggs to their own—that is, So far as Australian Cuckoos are concerned.” Mr. A. J. Campbell tabled an important collection of bird-skins from Western Australia, sent for exhibit by Mr. Henry L. White, of Scone, N.S.W. They aroused considerable interest. It was suggested that the skins be compared with type specimens at the Museum next day. (Further particulars, see page 165.) Dr. W. V. Angove also exhibited some skins from the interior of Vol. IX. fete Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. Ahaeie South Australia, including the Rufous-crowned Emu-Wren (Stipiturus ruficeps), new to the locality. A motion was moved by Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, C.M.Z.S., and seconded by Mr. A. J. Campbell, Col. Mem. B.O.U.—*< That an area of Kangaroo Island should be reserved as a bird sanctuary.” Mr. F. R. Zietz, Mr. J. W. Mellor, and Dr. Pulleine spoke in favour of the motion. Captain S. A. White, in supporting the motion, suggested that the Government should be pressed to take immediate action. The motion was carried, and left in the hands of the local members, who would have the support of the Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. SECOND Day. On Friday members paid a visit to the Museum, and several hours of very useful ornithological study were occupied amongst the type specimens, under the guidance of Professor E. C. Stirling, C.M.G., and the Assistant Director, Mr. A. H. C. Zietz, C.M.Z.S. Friday afternoon was devoted to an entertaining inspection of the Zoological Gardens. The tour was under the direction of Mr. A. ©. Minchin, and the fresh atmosphere whipped the inmates of the cages into appreciable activity. The gardens looked fresh, and were conspicuously tidy, with a good display in the flower-beds. The wistaria made a particularly attractive display, throwing a canopy of faint purple over the trellis near to the entrance. In the aspect of the gardens many improvements compared with former visits were noted. The visitors, who included a number of lady members, had refreshments at the Director’s house, and, although the formal vote of thanks was purposely omitted, the appreciation of the delegates was evinced in unmistakable terms. The evening was devoted to a delightful picture entertainment. The large audience, under the presidency of Mr. D. Le Souéf, C.M.Z.S., enjoyed every minute of it, and was genuinely disap- pointed when the lights were switched on again. The views were illustrative of the Bass Strait Islands expedition at the end of last year, and the records were exceedingly interesting, as well as being most important scientifically. The cinematographic photographs were especially fine. Spectators, through the enthusiastic gener- osity of Mr. Mattingley, were given the rare experience of witnessing animated nature study in Australia, and they are not likely now to under-estimate the privilege. Remembering the delicate condi- tions under which the machine was necessarily manipulated, the result is most commendable. Mr. Mattingley has done ornithology a splendid service. ‘Just now, when men are competing with birds for the mastery of the air,” said he, in a pertinent explana- tion, “a film depicting the different forms of flight is peculiarly useful. The time is not far distant when we shall be able to navigate the air with almost the same facility as birds.” The seal rookery made a wonderful series of pictures. Hundreds of these remarkable animals were shown in the enjoyment of their native element—wobbling with awkward oscillating gait on the rocks and Emt ist Jan. iBey Austvalasian Ornithologists’ Union. among the pools, or diving and frisking in the sea in graceful ecstasy. And then that gigantic, crowded home of the Gannets—a perfect snowstorm of plumage, an acre of living, nesting birds, so excellently described in The Emu* by Captain S. A. White in the course of his well-written account of the expedition. Other features came in for specialization by the cinematograph, all of engaging interest. The evening was nicely balanced. Mr. Leach, who has made nature study something to admire in Victorian schools, opened with a general racy retrospect of the work of the ornithologists on the Bass Strait Islands, and as he talked the lanternist (Mr. A. O. Thomas) maintained a procession of marvellous pictures of bird-life, taken by men who knew how to combine the artistic with the utilitarian. The pictures demon- strated a commendable spirit of enterprise, and not a little audacity here and there. Following Mr. Leach came Mr. A. J. Campbell, who weaved a romance around the Mutton-Birds, with their rookeries of a million odd population; and after him Mr. Mattingley and his triumph of moving bird photography. It was a splendid trio of lecturettes, and when the Chief Justice (Sir Samuel Way) rose voluntarily in the audience and called for an expression of thanks the response was most hearty. (The net result of the lecture was £16, which goes to the Coloured Figure Fund of The Emu.) Tuirp Day. On Saturday afternoon the delegates, at the invitation of Captain S. A. White, of the Reedbeds, made a drag excursion to the Mount Lofty Ranges. Although a keen south wind was blowing, the threatening clouds did not burst until after the party had returned to town, and the drive, with al fresco tea served by Mrs. S. A. White under spreading green branches on a mountain top, was most exhilarating. The city was reached shortly after dark, and Captain and Mrs. White were heartily thanked for their hospitality. General Meeting.—In the evening the annual general meeting was held in the Royal Society’s rooms. Mrs. H. Burrell, Mrs. Israel, Mrs. White, and Messrs. Mattingley, Campbell, Z. Gray, J. W. Mellor, jun., R. Hall, J. A. Leach, R. Crompton, M. Symonds Clark, H. Burrrell, J. W. Mellor, C. L. Barrett, H. H. Griffiths, C. Crompton, O. Rosenhain, Drs. A. M. Morgan and W. V. Angove, . and Captain White were present. Mr. Le Souéf, the president, occupied the chair. Apologies for their unavoidable absence were received from the Chief Justice (Sir Samuel Way), Dr. G. Horne, and Messrs. B. Woodward, E. Ashby, H. L. White, and Conigrave (W.A.) The minutes of the eighth annual meeting were read, and confirmed, on the motion of Dr. Morgan, seconded by Mr. Chas. Barrett. The president’s address was then read (see p. 120). * Vol. viii., p. 202. THE Emu, Vol. 1X. IX. PLATE (Sap10uos409 SNAAOD) MOID JO JSON SUTMOYS ‘Ss8q] 9 Sururezuo9 (" 94} fo toquroul ysos uno) "NOSHOVE “M ‘GIS Ad ‘OLOHd V WOYS OUUM "A “H Peay Joqseyy _ Spee ee re, Mae ae ts Vol. IX. 1910 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. 113 Mr. A. J. Campbell read a letter received from their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales, co-patrons of the Union, in which they expressed their interest in the Union, and wished it every success, and also acknowledged with thanks copies of the last two volumes of The Emu. The annual report of the hon. secretary was read. It was shown that the Union had made excellent progress during the year, and had been instrumental in having useful measures for the protection of birds adopted in several States. It was moved by Mr. J. W. Mellor, and seconded by Mr. C. Crompton, that it be adopted. Carried. The balance-sheet, which was read by Mr. Z. Gray, one of the honorary auditors, in the absence of the honorary treasurer, showed that the expenditure for the past twelve months had been £471, and the receipts £498, leaving a credit balance of {27._ Moved by Mr. Z. Gray, and seconded by Mr. O. Rosenhain, that the balance- sheet be adopted. On a motion moved by Capt. S. A. White, and seconded by Mr. Crompton, the following were unanimously elected members of the Union :—South Australia—Miss H. Lilian Sanderson, Mr. R. E. P. Osborne, Mr. A. G. Edquist. Victoria—-His Excellency Sir Thomas Gibson-Carmichael, K.C.M.G., Mr. H. W. Ford, F.G.S., Mr. R. Hutchinson, Mr. F. Wildes, Mr. A. Scott, Mr. L. Buckland, Mr. G. H. Capes, Mr. W. Lawford, Mr. R. Godfrey, Mr. O. Rosenhain, Mrs. J. W. Israel, and Dr. Sutton. New South Wales—Mr. P. Gilbert, Master A. H. White, and Mr. C. Gubanzi. Queensland— Mr. T. Gulliver, Mr. W. Coleman, Mr. J. T. Scrymgeour, and Mr. H. Nielson. West Australia—Mr. C. P. Conigrave. Tasmania—Mr. O. L. Adams. New Zealand—Mr. H. Hamilton. America—The Librarian, United States Department of Agriculture, Washington, and the Director, Field Columbian Museum, Chicago. The annual election of officers for the ensuing year resulted as fol- lows :—Mr. A. J. Campbell, Col. Mem. B.O.U., was elected president without opposition; Messrs. J. W. Mellor and Robert Hall, C.M.Z.S., were elected vice-presidents ; Mr. H. W. Wilson, honorary Secretary; Mr. J. A. Ross, honorary treasurer; Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, C.M.Z.S., honorary librarian; Messrs. A. J. Campbell and C. Barrett, honorary editors of The Emu, members of the Council—Captain S. A. White (S.A.), Mr. L. Harrison (N.S.W.), Mr. D. Le Souéf, C.M.Z.S. (Victoria), Mr. W. M‘Ilwraith (Queens- land), Mr. C. Price Conigrave (W.A.), Mr. G. R. Marriner, F.R.M.S. (N.Z.); Mr. C. Barrett, press correspondent. Moved by Mr. Mattingley—‘‘ That the members of the Australasian Ornithologists’ Union in congress assembled desire to record their appreciation of the efforts that have been made by the Directors of Education in South Australia and Victoria in giving prominence to the value of the work performed by birds as portrayed through the medium of special School Papers dealing with Australian orni- thology, and also by setting aside a ‘ Bird Day’ to be observed by the teachers in instructing the State school scholars,”’ The motion It4 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. rai RECHIPTS AND For Year ‘ended CaS a | Acasa RECHIP TS: Boaane 5 Balance brought forward-—General Fund Dek fe il Col. Figure Fund 41 14 9 $ Rey 40 10 O Subscriptions—Arrears 95,02. 9 Year ending 30th June, 1909 1341010 is IgIO O15 oO i IQII 149 17 9 : : ft 52 Gi “ Handlist ”— Supplement to part 3, vol. vii. OMEEy 70) Sales of 7he Emu og on Cases for 7he Emu 9 16 o Col. Figure Fund—Donations 20-0..0 Mr. H. L. White’s Donation—lIIlustrating part 5, vol. viii. [20 7 oO Lecture i 9 © Postage Teo 8 Exchange 248.10 Part Charter Manawatu for Bass Strait Trip 498 14 oO (Signed) J. A. Ross, Hon. Treasurer. BALANCE For Year ended ASSETS. ste a see G ; The Amu in Stock (exclusive of Supplement to part 2, vol. v., but including 120 Supple- ments to part 3, vol. vii.—‘* Handlists ”)— 183).%0' yo 1,830 parts, at 2s. each 20 0 a Library Sy OPO Illustration Blocks 20. O20 Arrears of Subscriptions and other Debts (estimated good) 4 8 Cash in Bank—General Fund 9 8 Coloured Figure Fund 27 14 4 268 14 4 ° Vol. IX. IgIo0 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. Eis EXPENDITURE 380th June, 1909. EXPENDITURES. (£7's:.-d. GRICES T68 The Emu—Printing, &c. 5, ay Be Sead PL Tn Illustration Blocks 31 199 Photographs and Lantern Slide O13) 6 Proof Reader, 7he mu Lys (ome) Coloured Figure Fund .. ZU FO) “0 Binding The Emu (including Covers) Bae, 4G Stationery and General Printing O41 56 Box to hold Stationery, &c. © 7 © Postage and Duty WSs Gh 59) Exchange OnLgn.G Congress g. 4 Lecture E ) fo} ts Library—Books 6.6 a Insurance (Opies oa Appeals to Government 7e Birds’ Plumes a at Tau 2 Part Charter Manawatu for Bass Strait Trip am Svea seh eet Oy n Bank Charges, 10s ; Cheque Book, 2s. 6d. ae, is GrIZ5.0 Cash in Bank— General Fund aie i 12) 4708 Coloured Figure Fund 9 8 a a oe 27 14 4 £498 14 0 Audited and found correct. Ze GRAN R. P. GODFREY, t Hon. Auditors. 17th September, 1909. SHEET, 380th June, 1909. LIABILITIES. Seas Subscriptions paid in advance Oe ays Sed bs 117 eh i 2} Proof Reader, 7ke Emu a aa Fas Mt ZOO Balance “ We ae ef yan ISIN HCW SZ £268 14 4 . ; . . ’ . E nu I16 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. den Jee was supported by Mr. Mellor, Captain White, Mr. R. Hall, Mr. A. G. Edquist, and Mr. Symonds Clark, seconded by Dr. Morgan, and carried unanimously. The Council of the A.O.U. offered to give a special lecture to the South Australian Education Department, and it was enthusiastically accepted by the Director of Education (Mr. A. Williams). It was then resolved that Mr. J. A. Leach, M.Sc. (Organizing Inspector of Nature Study, Victoria), be selected to deliver an illustrated lecture on bird study, such lecture to be delivered under the auspices of the Union on the return of the delegates from the camp. It was suggested that rule 3 should be altered so as to read— *“The Society shall consist of members, honorary members, and honorary associate members,’ &c. After some discussion it was decided to add the words ‘‘and associate members”’ after the first word, ‘‘ members,” on the third line, so as to read—‘‘ The Society shall consist of members, honorary members, and honorary associate members.” Rule 1m was amended so as to read—‘*‘ The annual meeting shall take place in the months of October or November, or in such month as the Council may appoint,’”’ &c. Both alterations were made unanimously. An estimate of £74 was submitted for the publication of an index to the first seven volumes of The mu. It was moved by Mr. J. A. Leach and seconded by Dr. W. V. Angove--“ That Mr. G. M. Mathews be informed that, while thanking him for his very great trouble in compiling it, it has been decided not to publish the index out of the funds of the Union.” Carried. Colour-Chart.—It was fully recognized by the Congress that there was a need ofa colour-chart for the purpose of having a universal and uniform method of describing the colours of birds’ plumages as well as their eggs. The present inadequate and indefinite method of expressing the true colours of natural history specimens has in the past caused and is at the present time creating confusion, which gives rise to the introduction of baneful synonyms leading to misconceptions and re-descriptions. This clogs the wheels of scientific investigation and retards research. A colour chart approved by a conference of leading scientists would be indeed a boon to systematists and especially to field workers. Both would have a common and a uniform method readily under- stood by either with the help of sucha chart. It is suggested that delegates be appointed by all the scientific societies of Great Britain to draw up acolour scheme. This conference would be assisted by expert colourists in arriving at a comprehensive scheme of colouration which could then be accepted as a standard and as an official scientific colour-chart. It is felt that there would be throughout the world a large demand for such a work especially if of a size that could readily be carried about in the pocket. A pocket chart would be of inestimable value if used in the field, since the colours of specimens as found in life could then be faithfully Vol. IX. ania Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. EEZ. recorded, while it would also to some extent prevent destruction of life. It is also suggested that the official names of the colours be printed in several languages. Each distinct colour should be numbered, and further separated, say, by suitable lines according to its varied shades, which could be lettered. If this were done the numbers and letters of the official chart need only be given when recording data. The advantages to be derived from the use of such a system is apparent. The desirableness of an up-to-date ‘‘Check-List”’ of birds, with their common names attached, was discussed at length. It was fully recognized that it was essential to instruct the ordinary person in the exact vernacular names of birds, so that a uniforn nomen- clature would obtain. The following members were appointed to gather information relative to the local names of birds in different localities and report at the next congress :—Mr. A. J. Campbell (Vict.), convener ; Mr. J. W. Mellor (S.A.), Mr. Robert Hall (Tas.), Mr. A. W. Milligan (W.A.), and Mr. Gregory M. Mathews (England). It was also decided to write to the Education Departments in the several States, asking for a list of the vernacular names of the different birds. Resolved, on the motion of Mr. A. J. Campbell, seconded by Mr. Chas. Barrett—*‘ That copies of the cinematograph films depicting the bird and animal life of the expedition to Bass Strait Islands be sent to England, at a cost not exceeding {12 I2s., as a present to the British Ornithologists’ Union.” On the motion of Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, seconded by Mr. J. W. Mellor, it was resolved that bulletins to The Emu be published as occasion arose, so that delay would not be caused in the event of important matter coming to hand. On a motion by Mr. R. Hall, which was seconded by Dr. W. V. Angove, it was resolved that the consideration of the advisability of holding the next annual meeting in Queensland be left in the hands of the Council. It was resolved that an Ornithological Court be arranged for the forthcoming Australian Natives’ Association Exhibition, Melbourne. Mr. Basset Hull exhibited a list, &c., of the “‘ Birds of Australia”’ in pamphlet form.* The list was designed to aid collectors, and was a key to all previous lists, and as such was a valuable help to systematists. The Education Departments of South Australia and Victoria were eulogized for the interesting and instructive articles on birds that were appearing in the respective School Papers. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded to the Royal Society for the use of their room free of charge. Moved by Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, and seconded by Mr. R. Hall —‘ That a special vote of thanks be accorded to Captain S. A. White for so kindly prospecting the Eyre Peninsula for a suitable camping-ground.” Carried. * See advt., p. 180. Emu 1st Jan. 118 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. [ Dr. W. V. Angove moved that a vote of thanks be passed to the retiring office-bearers. The motion was seconded by Mr. R. Crompton and carried. SUNDAY. Visit to Reedbeds—Two names that leap to the tongue when ornithology is mentioned in South Australia are those of Captain S. A. White and Mr. J. W. Mellor, both of whom have rendered the science signal service. On Sunday afternoon the delegates visited their homes at Fulham, and saw further evidences of their practical enthusiasm and love for bird-life. More than an hour or two is wanted to do justice to these wonderful collections—and, perhaps, more than a day or two. There is a whole history behind each of them. A splendid response was made to the invitation to go to Fulham, and the party had a happy and profitable time. The eighth flood of the season had practically blotted the pad- docks out, and terra firma was visible only in patches. The creeks were gushing, racing, swollen streams, and for miles around an immense sweep of water met the eye. The “try again’’ ’buses never needed more to act up to their popular name. An ornitho- logical wag asked the driver if he held a master’s certificate and carried an up-to-date chart. The conveyances rolled and wallowed so that, after all, the humorous remark had a big dash of lurking fitness init. The notice-boards which proclaimed grazing paddocks at the disposal of stock-owners were evidently sarcastic, because passengers were asking, ‘“ Well, whose water is that?” It would have been absurd to have said ‘field.’ Fulham has _ had enough wet this year to give it a green carpet through several droughts. Bird Collections.—Mr. Mellor’s diversified collection of live birds first claimed attention. The tour of the cages was most interesting to the visitors, and the members of the Mellor family were sub- jected to a running fire of questions about this and that specimen until time came to leave. The people of Holmfirth have a pocket edition of the Zoo, and have many valuable birds and animals dotted about the big, tree-studded garden. At Wetunga Captain S."A. White and Mrs. White had another little wonderland of interest for the delegates: this time a rare private exhibition of bird-skins, big game trophies, shells, and so on—altogether a marvellous range of items. These were displayed in a museum which Captain White has had erected at the rear of his home. It must contain every letter in the alphabet of curios. South African specimens are prominent, and some particularly attractive mementos of the Boer war—if shells and bullets may be called attractive. The delegates were entertained at tea by Captain and Mrs. White and Mr. and Mrs. John F. Mellor, and the visit to Fulham will always rank as a most pleasant retrospect. THE EXPEDITION. On Tuesday, the 5th October, several of the members left Port Vol. IX. 1910 Australasian Ornithologists’ Union. II9Q Adelaide by the Adelaide Steamship Co.’s s.s. Rupara for Port Lincoln, and thence to Warunda by a railway train specially pro- vided for the occasion, this place having been selected by Captain White as an ideal spot for a ten days’ “ working ’’ excursion and “‘camp-out.”” Eyre Peninsula is considered the place where the birds from the east and west inosculate. | The steamer was considered by the members to be an excellent sea-going boat. The owners had in their minds when planning the boat the providing of comfort for those who may travel by her. The cuisine was also excellent. The boat had a smooth passage both ways, and none suffered from mal de mer. Drs. W. V. Angove and G. Horne, Mr. and Mrs. H. Burrell, Captain and Mrs. White, Mr. and Mrs. Mellor, Misses Mellor (2), Mrs. Israel, Messrs. J. W. Mellor, jun., O. Rosenhain, A. H. E. Mattingley, Jc AS Eeach, A. G. Edquist, J. Barr, C. L. Barrett, H. H. Griffiths, Z. Gray, F. R. Zietz, jun., R. Hall, R. Crompton, A. C. C. Clarke, and a cook (Henderson) comprised the members of the camp. The party arrived at Warunda on Wednesday, and at once pitched the camp, which was composed of 11 tents that had been kindly lent by the Survey Department of South Australia. Every- body worked willingly, and the camp was soon in order. Additional excursions were made to Coffin Bay and Lake Won- garry and the Tongio Hills, as it was heard that fossil bones, peculiar geological formations, as well as certain forms of bird-life, were likely to be found there. Whilst on Eyre Peninsula Mr. Mattingley journeyed to Port Lincoln and delivered a lecture on ‘‘ Ornithology.” Fine weather conditions prevailed throughout the “ camp-out.” On Saturday, the 16th October, camp was struck amid heavy rain, and a return to Port Lincoln was made at about 3.30 p.m. At about 5 o’clock the Rupara set sail for Port Adelaide, arriving there on Sunday morning after a pleasant trip up the Gulf. CONCLUSION. On the following day, at the invitation of Mr. J. F. Mellor, a drag excursion through the suburbs of Adelaide was made. The air was redolent with the aromatic odour of orange blossoms. In the afternoon a visit was made to the magnificent aviaries of Mr. R. E. Osborne—perhaps the finest in the Commonwealth privately owned. All the birds seemed happy, and many roamed at liberty, but were too pleased to leave so comfortable quarters. Mr. and Mrs. Osborne entertained the visitors at afternoon tea. On behalf of the Union, Dr. G. Horne thanked Mr. and Mrs. Osborne for the pleasure visitors had had in inspecting such well-kept aviaries. The Union was under a debt of gratitude to Mr. Osborne for having sent over to the recent camp several cases of fine oranges. These were appreciated by all. I20 President's Address : > Heanee ist Jan. Bird Sanctuaries. [Address of the President (Mr. D. LE SouEF, C.M.Z.S., &c., Divector of the Melbourne Zoological Gardens) before the Australasian Ovrni- thologists’ Union, Adelaide Session, 1909.] IT is gratifying to state that this subject has lately come well to the fore in Australia, especially in the southern States, and I hope that whatever has been done will only be a forerunner of much more to come. Our native fauna and flora are not ours to do what we like with, but, to quote another, “are given to us in trust for the benefit both of the present and future generations. We must render an account of this trust to those who come after us ; it is therefore the duty of every Australian to promote the protection of our forests and wild life, while there is still some left to preserve, and, if rightly conserved, wild game, especially birds, constitutes a valuable asset to any country which possesses it, and it is good statesmanship to protect it.” The few reserves in Australia at present are insignificant to what we should have, especially in comparison with what is being done in other countries. Take Canada, for instance—she has the Rocky Mountain Park, consisting of 2,764,800 acres ; Jasper Park, Alberta, 3,488,000 acres; and six others, with a total area of 4,179,200 acres. In the United States they had up to Ist June, 1909, 12 national and provincial parks and game preserves, of a total area of 7,258,963 acres ; and besides, to quote from The New York Zoological bulletin— Around the coast of the United States there is being gradually extended a chain of insular bird sanctuaries, that means much to the avifauna of North America. Prior to Ist January, 1909, 25 national bird refuges had been created by executive order and proclamation, chiefly along our sea-coasts. They provide specially protected breeding grounds for the Pelican, Gulls, Terns, shore-birds of various species, Herons, Egrets, Ducks, and numerous other species. It is impossible to over-estimate the zoological value of these sanctuaries, or to praise too highly the wisdom that brought them into existence. During the present year 26 more island preserves have been proclaimed.” Our American cousins would not make all these reserves and sanctuaries if they did not consider them necessary for the well- being of their country, and surely we should not be behind them. Sanctuaries are just as necessary to our country as theirs, possibly more so. When we consider for a moment the enormous amount of insect life that is yearly consumed by our insectivorous birds, it is incalculable and beyond our comprehension. Just to give one instance, when Surgeon-Colonel C. Ryan and myself visited a single Ibis rookery in New South Wales, we estimated ee ee ee ee a ; } : f ' 7 ; ne ee ee hoes. ake Ss ee Bird Sanctuaries. GAA the number of grasshoppers or locusts consumed in one day by the parents and young at approximately 482,000,000, in addition to vast numbers of caterpillars and snails; and we have to remember that this is going on more or less all over the Common- wealth, and that if it were not for our birds insect life would be so plentiful that we would find it difficult to grow fruit, for instance; and even now we have to use artificial means to reduce our insect pests, largely on account of the paucity of birds. This all tends to show the urgent necessity of proclaiming bird sanctuaries ; each particular class of country should have one, especially in the more thickly populated States. New South Wales has lately formed a “ Wild-life Protection Society,” the main object of which is to protect native birds ; and it is much needed, as near the Murray River in that State are extensive swamps, which form the breeding-ground of many water-fowl, including the beautiful Egret. It is there that so much destruction has been caused to these birds during the nesting season, for the sake of their plumes. There are at present in this State 18 smaller reserves, mostly for water-fowl, as well as three large parks—the Centennial, National, and Kurai- Kai—containing a total area of over 80,000 acres, as well as Warren, Dubbo, and Lismore districts, having a total area of 61,655 acres. The number of these areas will probably soon be increased largely by private owners having their properties pro- claimed bird sanctuaries. Victoria is also well to the fore in protecting her avifauna, and the Education Department has inaugurated a Bird Day in con- nection with the State schools, and is also forming a Gould Society among the children; any child on payment of a penny can become a member, and will have a printed card given it, and from time to time illustrated leaflets. Nature study classes have also been inaugurated among the teachers, and much attention is being devoted to birds. A handlist of Victorian birds, with a short description of each species, has been published by: the Department. This work will be illustrated later, and should prove a valuable help. Much information on this subject is also being disseminated through the medium of the State school papers. Then there is the Bird Observers’ Club, an organization which seeks to popularize bird study, and in so doing to protect the birds. At present there are 23 reserves, containing a total area of 123,989 acres, in which no destruction of bird life is permitted. One of them, Wilson’s Promontory, containing 91,000 acres, has been fenced to exclude wild dogs and foxes, and a caretaker, who is a bird-lover and well versed in wild life, has been placed in charge. Besides these reserves, many private owners have had suitable portions of their properties proclaimed as reserves for game, and these, as well as the Government reserves, are I22 Presideni’s Address : Emu rst Jan. increasing in number. Some of the shire councils are also having certain lands under their control, especially lakes, gazetted, with the same object in view; so there seems a good chance of many of the rarer birds still remaining, despite rabbit poison and pea-rifles. And, by the way, it is time that a tax was put on the destructive pea-rifles. Many human lives would probably be saved by so doing (fatal accidents are frequently occurring), not to mention the number of useful insectivorous birds which are yearly killed by thoughtless youths. South Australia has at present three large reserves for the preservation of its fauna and flora, of a total area of 40,400 acres, and many private properties are also bird sanctuaries, where every effort is made to protect and attract bird-life, even to placing suitable nesting-boxes in trees and other places. Bird-lovers in this State deserve much credit for the way in which they have persevered in having their birds protected, and they will surely benefit by it, as well as the public generally. Much lively interest is being taken by the Education Depart- ment of the State in bird matters. Illustrated articles appear from time to time in Zhe School Paper and Children’s Hour, and the Government is at present preparing coloured illustrations of various protected birds for the use of the police. Tasmania has at present I1 reserves, of a total area of 26,200 acres, and it is to be hoped that efforts will be made by that State to introduce the Lyre-Bird into that country, where it will be free from the persecution of its arch-enemy, the fox. Queens- land and Western Australia do not need sanctuaries nearly as much as the other States mentioned, they being so much more sparsely populated, but it is to be hoped that both States will reserve some of their islands as sanctuaries, especially Hinchin- brook Island, on the coast of Queensland, which would make a splendid national reserve, as well as Bellenden-Ker and similar mountains on the mainland. The Queensland Government has already reserved several small islands as_ sanctuaries, principally to prevent the destruction of Torres Straits Pigeons when they migrate from New Guinea to Queensland for the purpose of nesting. New Zealand, as is well known, has several large bird sanctuaries, which are placed under the care of wardens. One thing I think should surely be done, and that is to make the destruction of foxes a Commonwealth matter, as, although fortunately they have not yet spread over the whole of Australia, it is only a matter of time when they will have done so, and stringent laws should be made for their destruction. It is difficult to say to what extent our ground game may suffer in years to come, let alone lambs and poultry ; nothing alive seems to come amiss to foxes as food, and they usually kill far more than they caneat. These animals are responsible for the destruc- ee “ 1 i i Vol. IX. Bird Sanctuaries. 123 1910 tion of thousands of water-fowl, Ibis and similar valuable insectivorous birds, mostly by invading rookeries during ‘the nesting season; they also destroy Lyre-Birds, Bustards, Quail, young Emu, and scores of similar birds, and will do the same to the Scrub-Turkeys and Scrub-Hens in Northern Australia when they reach there. I am glad to see that the value of Pelicans and Cormorants is being brought more into prominence, and I hope in time that these birds will be protected, instead of rewards being offered for their destruction. I think the Australasian Ornithologists’ Union has done good work in helping to popularize the study of birds, and it is mostly due to its members that the subject is assuming the national importance it is justly entitled to, and I hope as years go on that members will not relax their efforts, but will seek more than ever to preserve a valuable national asset—our birds. The Birds of Eyre Peninsula, S.A. BY ROBERT HALE. (C.M.ZS:, Con, MEM. BOW. FOLLOWING upon the congress held in Adelaide during September—October last, the Union made an excursion to Eyre Peninsula, extending over ten days. Mr. J. W. Mellor, vice-president, and Capt. White had specially visited the Peninsula and selected a site along the railway line upon the Warunda Creek, at Wanilla, and about 27 miles north of Port Lincoln. The Adelaide S.S. Co. generously placed at the service of the Union a considerable amount of accommodation on their new steam-boat, the Aupara, trading between Adelaide and the Gulf ports. On the evening of 5th October Doctors Angove and Geo. iorne. Messrs. a. Barr, C. LU.) Barrett, H. Burrell GC, Clarke, Robert Crompton, A. G) Edquist, Z. Gray, H: H: BD: Griffith; obert, Hall,\J. A. Leach, M.Se., A. H. E..Mattinsley, C.MAZ.S,; }. B Mellor, J. W. Mellor, O..W. Rosenhain, Capt. S. A. White, F. R. Zietz, Mesdames Burrell, Israel, Mellor, White, and Misses B. and W. Mellor left Adelaide for Port Lincoln. Upon arrival the party were specially conveyed to their proposed camp by the courtesy of the Hon. the Commissioner for Railways. Maps very kindly supplied by Mr. James W. Jones, Conservator of Water, had been examined. Tents were fixed without delay, and by the evening every member of the expedi- tion was prepared to see how the country was constructed, and what it offered of special interest to them—a body of ornithologists. The members mostly occupied themselves about the camp. Two little trips were made to the foot of the Koppio Hills. On I24 Harr, The Birds of Eyre Peninsula, S.A. im 1st Jan. one occasion a number of the party travelled to the south- eastern end of the Great Australian Bight, and were well rewarded by a considerable number of birds new to the list we were preparing. Each succeeding day became a still more interesting one as we gathered additional species and found a fuller enjoyment in the type of country new to us, The weather was fine, and at times hot, until the last day; then it rained. On this morning (16th October), as arranged, our beautifully new tents were repacked, and a train without delay conveyed us back to Port Lincoln. During the previous evening Mr. Mattingley, in the interests of the Union, returned to the Port and delivered a public illustrated lecture on “The Birds of Bass Strait.” This was greatly appreciated. The whole party was again (16th) on board the ss. Rupara. The voyage was specially fine, and Adelaide was reached on the following morning. On the Monday evening Mr. Leach delivered, on behalf of the Union, an illustrated lecture on “ Australian Birds” to an invited body of teachers attached to the Education Department of South Australia. Mr. Edquist was able to render service, and, as usual, Messrs. Campbell, Le Souéf, and Mattingley, in the matter of selected slides. This lecture is being productive of much good. The members now disbanded, after their agreeable and profitable work in the bush. Some journeyed to New South Wales, and others through to Victoria and Tasmania. The vegetation of Eyre Peninsula is typical of our hot southern areas. Plants that are hard, dry, and shrubby——mallee eucalypts, melaleucas, hakeas, casuarinas, low proteaceous forms, and hibbertias—abound. The country they grow upon is mostly sandstone, dune limestone, travertine, and quartzite. There was no “pine-land” in the most southern portion of the Peninsula— certainly not any about the country of the main camp or south of a line extending east or west of it. A key to the avifauna was gained when we found Amytornes, Oreotca, Xerophila, Chera- maca, and Lzpoa. Our first camp was in the district of Wanilla (Warunda Creek), and some 30 miles north-west of Port Lincoln. There we landed on 6th October, 1909. About five miles eastward were the Koppio Hills, and about an equal distance to the west was the Marble Range, made up of eruptive granite, diorite dykes, and quartz reefs. These elevations skirted the coasts, while the whole of the country within them was undulating, with poor and dry scrubby timber, having creeks of slightly brackish waterholes as the season advances. The vegetation depends mostly upon the weathered portions of these hills cast over the country. Our camp occupied 10 days, during four of which certain of us travelled away westward to the extreme south-east end of the Great Australian Bight. There we meta THE Emu, Vol. LX. PEAWES x; ‘y's ‘epnsutusg shy ‘epuniem, ‘duieg *9'O'V ‘1754YNE ‘H AD ‘OLOHd VY WOYS Vol. Z| Hatt, The Birds of Eyre Peninsula, S.A. 125 IgIo vegetation of a more promising nature—large casuarinas, mallee eucalypts, and callistemons. Land-birds were numerous, and the many small bays offered cover for a fair variety of wading birds. Mt. Dutton Bay, about which we spent one day, offers a good collecting-ground, and a specially interesting journey could be made along the north-west coast. Here we met a Calamanthus allied to if not the same as C. montanellus of Western Australia. The list will show the birds to be closely associated with those of eastern Australia. It would be interesting to learn what species annually travel along the coastal country between Coffin Bay and Eucla, and when. It is a tempting strip of vegetation to Honey-eaters during the spring of the year. Altogether we located 103 species in the southern portion of the Peninsula. Other than waders and swimmers, 53 species are common to area 4, and 50 species to area 9—z.e., in each case about 66 per cent. Absent from area 4 are such forms as those already mentioned as characteristic of the Peninsula, and Collyriocincla rujiventris (previously not known to me as being in area 6), Malurus assimelis, Stsura ztnguieta, Di -ymawdus brunneopygius, Eopsaltria eriscogularis, Barnardius zonarius, Neophema petrophila ; while area 9 has missing from it Corcorax, Petreca legget (represented by P. campbell’), Malurus cyano- chlamys (cyaneus), Dacelo gigas (now introduced), and Calyfto- rhynchus funereus. Of the 76 species of land forms found by our party in the Peninsula, I find that areas 6, 7, and 9, in con- junction, have 54 of them, thus indicating the remaining 33 per cent. of the land-birds are common to area 4, and are not found in areas 9 or 7. Stated further as—Land-birds of the Peninsula, yo. species, Ateas 645/53, species ; 6-and 9,50 species ; 6, 7, 9, 54 species. Je, 4,53; 6 (2); 9, 50, areas 4 and g having 53 and 50 of the 76 observed. Of the 76 species of land-birds we find eight species common to areas 6 and 7 that are not found in area 9g; eight species common to areas 6 and g, not being found in 6 or 4; and four of the species peculiar to area 6. These may thus be shown :— Areas 6, 7, 8 species ; 6,9, 8 species ; 6, 4 species. Subtracting the 76 species of land-birds from the total, 103, we have :—Waders and swimmers, 27 species. Areas 6, 4, 27 species ; 6, 9, 20 species; 6, 7, 9, 9 species, the number of species being given as common to each group of areas. It appears that the whole of the waders and swimmers of the Peninsula are common to area 4, as far as our observations go, while 60 per cent. only are common to area g. Of the species that range into area 7, and which are common within areas 6 and 9, there are only nine species. This would indicate that the south-east of the continent is stronger in waders and swimmers and the south-west weaker in the same. 126 Hari, The Birds of Eyre Peninsula, S.A. ge 1st Jan. As far as I could observe, with the time at my disposal (one morning with the collections in the South Australian Museum), there are no species to record as new. I am indebted to Doctors Angove and Horne, Capt. White, Messrs. Mattingley, Mellor, Zietz, Leach, Barrett, Burrell, and Crompton for indicating or procuring specimens for identifica- tion for this, the first list of the birds in the southern portion of Eyre Peninsula. The nomenclature is that of the Handlist Birds Brit. Mus., 1899 (R. B. Sharpe),* while that of the Brit. Mus. Cat. (1874- 1895) is given in parentheses where it differs from that of the Handlist. The geographical distribution as indicated in the map refers only to the areas 9, 7, 4, because of their immediate connection with area 6. @ WESTERN \AUSTRALIA The numbering of the list is that of the “ Key to the Birds of Australia” (1906), and provides an easy reference to a short description of the species. 1. UROAETUS AUDAX, Latham (Wedge-tailed Eagle). This bird was well distributed over the country. Loc.—Wangary. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 3. HALIAETUS LEUCOGASTER, Gmelin (White-bellied Sea-Eagle). We saw one bird only, and that was very tame. Loc.—Mt. Dutton Bay. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 16. HIERACIDEA BERIGORA, Vig. and Hors. (Striped Brown Hawk). This specimen was strongly marked with stripes. Loc.—Mt. Dutton Bay. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 18. CERCHNEIS CENCHROIDES, Vig. and Hors. (Kestrel). Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 20. CIRCUS GOULDI, Bonaparte (Gould Harrier). Loc.—Wangary. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. * See also Gregory Mathews’ Handlist, Zz (1908). ole EX: Hai, The Birds of Eyre Peninsula, S.A; 127 Ig9Io 29. NINOX BOOBOOK, Lath. (Boobook Owl). Loc.—Wangary. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 45. CORONE AUSTRALIS, Gld. (Raven). Loc.—Mortlock. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 51.—STREPERA MELANOPTERA, Gld. (Black-winged Crow-Shrike). Back blackish, not greyish or plumbeous ; between melanoptera and plumbea in colour. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6. 54.—CORCORAX MELANORHAMPHUS, Vieill. (White-winged Chough). This bird was not seen, but it was so accurately described by different people, with regard to habit, form, colour of eye, and nest, that there was no mistaking the description for other than a Corcorax. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7. 71. COLLYRIOCINCLA RUFIVENTRIS, Gould (Buff-bellied Shrike-Thrush). This species was observed to be plentiful. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—6, 7, 9. 78. CORACINA ROBUSTA, Lath. (Graucalus melanops, Lath.), (Black- faced Cuckoo-Shrike). Found nesting in box eucalypt. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 90. PETRCA LEGGEI, Sharpe (P. /eggé7), (Scarlet-breasted Robin). The frontal white mark was too large for that of P. campbelli, of area 9. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—a, 6. 93. PETR@CA GOODENOVH, Vig. and Hors. (Red-capped Robin). The red of the plumage was very brilliant, Each year during the first three years intensifies the red. Loc.—Wangary. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 97. PETRECA BICOLOR, Vig. and Hors. (Hooded Robin). Loc.—Wangary. Hab.—4, 6, 9. 100.—SMICRORNIS BREVIROSTRIS, Gld. (Short-billed Tree-Tit). Loc.—Mortlock. Hab.—4, 7, 9. 117. MALURUS CYANOCHLAMYS, Shp. (4. cyaneus, Ellis; M. superbus, Shaw), (Blue Wren). Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6. 123. MaLuRUS cyaANoTuS, Gld. (JZ. leucopterus, Quoy and Gaim.), (White-backed Wren). This Wren was not captured, and it did not appear to have the white back when the glass was placed upon it. It may prove to be M7. /euconotus. Loc.—Mortlock. Hab.—6, 7, 9 (4 occasionally). 125A. MALURUS ASSIMILIS, North (‘ Key,” p. 111), Purple-backed Wren). A male undergoing the moult of brown into blue was secured. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—-4, 6, 7. 133. RHIPIDURA ALBISCAPA, Gld. (White-shafted Fantail). Under surface creamy white, with outer tail feather nearly white, excepting outer web. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7. 139. SAULOPROCTA MELALEUCA, Quoy and Gaim. (Rhipidura tricolor, Vieill.), (Black-and-White Fantail). This species was found nesting. Loc.— Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6,7, 9. Se de | phe en a4 ee Rn ae aa 128 Hatt, The Birds of Eyve Peninsula, S.A. feaeme tst Jan. 148. SISURA INQUIETA, Lath. (Restless Flycatcher). Pure white breast and well-matured plumage. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 179. AMYTORNIS (AMYTIS) TEXTILIS, Quoy and Gaim. (Grass- Wren). This species was seen at close quarters by Mr. Mattingley. No specimen was secured. Loc.—Mortlock. Hab.—6, 7, 9. 183. MEGALURUS GRAMINEUS, Gld. (Grass-Bird). This species is placed upon the list upon the authority of Dr. Angove, who knows well the bird. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7. 192. ACANTHIZA APICALIS, Gld. (Broad-tailed Tit). The specimens we secured show the characteristic tail, but the forehead is that of A. pyrrhopygia, Gld. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—6. 7, 9. 196. ACANTHIZA CHRYSORRHOA, Quoy and Gaim. (Yellow-rumped Tit). Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—-4, 6, 7, 9. 205. SERICORNIS MACULATA, Gld. (Spotted Scrub-Wren). The specimens secured attracted much attention. The throat had very indistinct markings, being almost uniform with the chest, the general appearance of the bird being greyish. The tail had a subterminal band. In other specimens the loral mark was particularly large, and deep brown. A nest with three eggs was found 13th October. Loc.—Wanilla and Marble Range. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 218. DRYMAGEDUS BRUNNEOPYGIUS, Gld. (Scrub-Robin). One of the specimens appeared to be very small. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—6, 7. 222. HYLACOLA CAUTA, Gld. (Red-rumped Ground-Wren). Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 9. 227. POMATOSTOMUS (POMATORHINUS) SUPERCILIOSUS, Vig. and Hors. (White-browed Babbler). Found well distributed (Wanilla and Wangary). Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 230. CINCLORHAMPHUS CRURALIS, Vig. and Hors. (Brown Song-Lark). One fine specimen with sooty-black under surface ; fallow field. Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 232A. CALAMANTHUS MONTANELLUS, Milligan (Rock Field-Wren). There is some difficulty in identifying the two specimens secured. They answer best to the description of Mr. Milligan’s monfanel/us, though not exactly so. Certainly they were not got upon rocky country, although at the foot of the granitic Marble Range. Loc.—Wangary. Hab.—6, 9. 235. EPHTHIANURA ALBIFRONS, Jard. and Selby (White-fronted Chat). Loc.—Wanilla. Hab.—4, 6, 7, 9. 239. APHELOCEPHALA (XEROPHILA) LEUCOPSIS, Gld. (White-faced Tit- mouse). They were numerous between Wangary and Mt. Dutton Bay. Loc.—Wangary. Hab.---6, 7, 9. 244. GYMNORHINA LEUCONOTA, Gld. (White-backed Magpie). : Although this bird was daily with us in camp we did not attempt to get a | specimen for hand examination. By the glass observation it was not Campbell’s G. dorsadzs of area 9. | Loc.—Wangary. Hab.—a4, 6, 7. 258. OREOICA CRISTATA, Lewin (Bell- Bird). Dr. Angove reports the bird. Loc.—Mortlock. Hab.—6, 7, 9. Pee eS ee ee a —_— Vol. 1X. THE Emu, PLATE XI *(snasaun{ snyaudysozdajyg) ooyeyoog yori “AA IONILLVNW “3S “H “VW ASB "SOLOHd WOUYS ‘suUNOX pure 4ysaN ‘(suzsddoauunsqg snpovucksq) UIqOY-qn.z9g eat : Ve . ' 3 it: nee P tid eee (Tes 7 . a > ec ET ian ee, : 4 : a es < saad : 4 cae) v3 2 -] a ~j 4 ¢ r Ae 7 mi Ee - = 2 i oe ps § C2 . ee -* ~ _ yo my as . : ees . f ‘ F h 43> as 4 % put TT A eet SL ee ne We np eee ee Vol. IX. Hatt, The Birds of Eyre Peninsula, S.A. I29 1910 261. EOPSALTRIA GRISEOGULARIS, Gld. (Z. georgiana, Quoy and Gaim.), (Grey-breasted Shrike-Robin). The nest and eggs were found on the 12th October. iRORS | ppydomad pumaydoany) yoyeriieg-YOOXY FO SON “LLaY¥uVE ‘1 °O Ad oy} Jo suioyy—Aeq osIpyjey Ut Je TST “SOLOHd WOUd eam ie te (oy oti rans a” é ' Vol. IX. ae BARRETT, Notes on the Rock-Parrakeet. 135 Along the cliff face the nests were difficult to locate, and still harder to reach, for several which I examined were placed at the end of burrows from 3 to 4 feet in length, On the summit, however, the eggs often lay under a flat stone, raised a few inches from the ground by fragments of rock. One nest, just above the water’s edge, and containing five young, was between two vertical rocks, a situation in which the eggs of the Oyster- catcher are often found. I succeeded in obtaining a series of photographs—nest with eggs, nest and young, and an adult bird perched on a rock. Unfortunately I had only four plates, or I might have secured other interesting studies of the graceful little birds. The nesting season was evidently at its height at the time of our visit, for we found nestlings in all stages of development, and nests containing from one to the full complement (four) of eggs. Although one nest contained five young birds, I am inclined to think that four is the average. Several nests we examined held three eggs highly incubated. The newly-hatched MNeophema is as ugly in appearance as its parents are beautiful. The nestling down is pale yellowish- grey—not a pleasing colour. The eggs are pure white, with a finely-textured, glossy shell. Gould, in writing of the Rock-Parrakeet, states that he received specimens from Port Lincoln, but that the principal habitat of the species appeared to be the western coast, on Rottnest and other islands near Swan River. Mr. A. J. Campbell, in his “ Nests and Eggs,” draws attention to the fact that Dr. Ramsay does not indicate WV. petrophila for South Australia in his “Tabular List.” It seems probable that Gould’s specimens came from the Coffin Bay district, which is not a great distance from Port Lincoln. Gould further states that the Rock-Parrakeet breeds in the holes of the most precipitous cliffs, choosing in preference those facing the water and most difficult of access. My observations at Goat Island bear out the latter part of this statement, for the majority of the nests we located were in the cliff face, and many were inaccessible. The great ornithologist speaks of the extremely rapid flight of this species, a noticeable feature, but I have not seen them “mount to a great height in the air.” Mr. Campbell’s description (in “Nests and Eggs,” pp. 652, 653) of a visit to Rottnest Island, where he found NVeophema petrophila nesting in large numbers, gives a better idea of such a scene than I can hope to do. But my notes, dealing as they do with a different locality, may prove of some interest. 136 Jackson, Description of two New Nests and Eggs. [ ,¥™ ist Jan. Description of two New Nests and Eggs. By Sip. WM. Jackson, A.O.U., NEw SOUTH WALES. ACANTHIZA TENUIROSTRIS, Zietz. Nest.—An oblong ‘structure, dome shaped, and resembling that of the AZalurz, except that it is more loosely made and not nearly so compact. Length, 5 inches ; width, nearly 3 inches ; the opening is 1% inches across, and is situated nearly at the top of the nest, the hood only covering two-thirds of the opening and body of the nest beneath. It is loosely constructed of thin strips of bark of a stringy nature, and portions of a soft plant, which are woven together and fastened with cobwebs. Warmly lined inside, especially at the bottom, with a white sub- stance resembling short pieces of wool, but which is probably the down collected from flowering plants. Nest was found suspended from the topmost twigs of a low samphire bush, near Lake Way,* Western Australia, on 26th August, 1909. Eggs.—Three in number; ground colour white, with a very faint tinge of pink in them. Shell fine, but with very little gloss. Specimens a and @ are well marked all over, but particularly at the larger ends, with very small spots of dull reddish-brown. Specimen c is almost devoid of markings, with the exception of very minute specks of dull reddish-brown, which are scattered all over the shell, and forming a very indistinct cap at the larger end. The eggs are swollen ovals in shape, and measure as follows :—(@) 0.57 X 0.43, (0) 0.57 X 0.43, (¢) 0.57 x 0.44 Inch. AMYTORNIS GIGANTURA, Milligan. Nest.—An open, cup-shaped structure, which in miniature somewhat resembles that of Collyriocincla harmonica. Width of nest over all, 434 inches ; egg cavity, 244 inches across by 1% inches in depth. Constructed of strips of bark and long portions of a soft white flowering plant. Lined with short, soft pieces of flat grass and plant-stems, also a quantity of soft white vegetable matter. The nest was placed about 20 inches from the ground in a dense salt-bush, which measured about 6 feet in circum- ference and about 3 feet in height. Taken at Lake Way, Western Australia, on 23rd August, 1909. Lggs.—Three in number, ground colour a warm white or dull pink, beautifully marked all over with spots and blotches of very rich reddish-brown, which become confluent at the larger ends, where they form an irregular zone or cap. Here and there on each egg will be found a few markings of light slate, appearing as if beneath the surface of the shell. * Lake Way is about 400 miles inland in an easterly direction from Geraldton which is the nearest point on the coast. —— eee ee a? ee eee 7. 4 te thaw “ee THE EMU, Vol. IX. PEAT ES oar Nest of Spur-winged Plover (Lobivanellus lobatus). FROM A PHOTO. BY H. BURRELL. POM ae eae ry eR eT Gi a eee ETN hl he a eae oh Neekin ¥ aes Vol. IX. eat | Jackson, Description of two New Nests and Eggs. .- 137 They are stout ovals in shape, the surface of the shell being very fine and glossy. The three eggs are very uniformly marked, and measure as follows :—(a) 0.85 x 0.67, (0) 0.89 x 0.67, (¢) 0.85 x 0.66 inch. Observation.—Writing to Mr. H. L. White on the new and interesting find, Mr. F. L. Whitlock states :—“ To-day (23rd August, 1909) I planned to have a thorough search in the ‘favourite place for the nest of this species. I picked up a stick and systematically beat the bushes and every tuft of spinifex. I had nearly gone through the most likely tract of ground when I spied what looked like the rim of a nest in a thick salt-bush. I parted the branches, and there was a fine open cup-shaped nest, with three handsome eggs, of a character totally new to me; they resembled large eggs of Arvtamus venustus or giant eggs of Aerophila, but the markings are more vinaceous. This was a puzzle. There was not a bird about whose eggs I thought I did not know. As for Amytornzs, all the time I have been looking for a semi-domed structure or something akin to it; this nest was massive and cup-shaped. The only thing to do was. to watch. I walked away, and was about to sit down, when I heard the alarm note of Amytornzs, promptly replied to by the other partner; I knew what I had then found. However, the sitting bird would not go on, so I decided to finish my work in another locality, and then return, and, if necessary, spend the day in watching. I came back in about two hours’ time, and, the ground being sandy, I came very stealthily up to the bush and peeped into the nest ; there sat an Amydornzs. Of course, the bird was off in an instant, but I saw sufficient to prove it to be the male bird of Milligan’s Amytornis gigantura.” Description of a New Acanthiza. By EDWIN ASHBY, BLACKWOOD, SOUTH AUSTRALIA. ACANTHIZA (GEOBASILEUS) FLAVIVENTRIS, sp. nov. (Plain- fronted Tit). Adult—General colour above buff-brown ; lesser, median, and greater wing coverts drab-brown, centres broadly margined with buff; primaries drab, narrowly margined with yellow, becom- ing a mere line towards extremities, but tipped with buff; secondaries, outer broadly margined with yellow, inner with buff. Tail blackish-brown, inner web shading to drab at base; inner web narrowly edged with whitish-buff, the outer web edged with yellow, which broadens at the base. Two central feathers pale brown at tip, others with a large white spot near extremity on inner web, shading to buff at tip; upper tail coverts yellow, slightly shading to buff; lower rump buff. Lores and eyelids buffish-white. Head.—The whole upper portion of head, neck, Emu 138 Asupy, Description of a New Acanthiza. ct ee ear coverts, and cheek, including forehead and crown, uniformly buff-drab ; chin and upper throat buffish-white. Upper and lower back.—Centre of feathers buffish-drab, in many a mere broadened line; outer and larger portion of feathers rufous- buff. Lower throat, neck, and chest buff; lower breast, abdomen, and thighs creamy-yellow; under tail coverts yellow ; under portion of wings grey-drab. Bill and feet brown. Measurements of dried formalin specimens.—Total length, I1I mm.; culmen, 9 mm.; tail, 40 mm.; tarsus, 18 mm. ; wing, 65 mm. Remarks —Acanthiza flaviventris differs from A. chrysorrhoa in the typical white spots on the forehead, face, and ear coverts being entirely absent ; in the general buff colouration, yellow abdomen and under tail coverts. A specimen of A. chrysorrhoa in the Adelaide Museum, obtained in the M‘Donnell Ranges, while having the somewhat faded appearance usual to desert forms, does not materially differ from the normal type, and is considerably smaller than the species under review. The specimen now described was kindly given me by Mr. Francis E. Starr, of Adelaide, who had received it in September last, with other specimens in a like bad state of preservation, from Lake Frome, in the interior of South Australia. I suggest the name of A. flaviventris, as being descriptive of the yellow abdomen; and the vernacular name of Plain-fronted Tit, as being descriptive of the absence of the freckled markings on the forehead that are so characteristic of this genus. Notes on the Great-billed Heron (Ardea sumatrana). (Compiled from the Log of the “‘ Lassie”? and Mr. Henry Nielson’s Field Book.) By E. M. CORNWALL, Mackay, Q. Mr. Nielson first observed the Great-billed Heron (Ardea sumatrana) on 5th April, 1908, when, with Messrs. G. White and E. M. Cornwall, he was in a boat drifting with the tide up Slade Point Creek, a tidal gutter bordered with a dense fringe of mangroves, and running into the sea a few miles to the north of Mackay, Q. At low tide the creek runs nearly dry, and the muddy flats offer food to the Heron’s taste. It is a shy bird at all times, and haunts quiet reaches of the many creeks and gutters which intersect the immense belts of mangroves along our coast. When disturbed it flies with a lazy, slow, and rather ungainly undulating motion, shunning observation by disappear- ing into more secluded spots. It was just 12 months later, on 8th April, 1909, that Mr. Nielson was able to make a deter- mined effort to discover the much-desired nest and eggs of this rare and interesting bird. On that day, accompanied by Vol. IX. IQto CoRNWALL, Notes on the Great-billed Heron. 139 Messrs. E. T. Grant and L. Harding, he left the Pioneer River in the yacht Lassze. A stiff southerly wind raised a nasty short sea, but the little craft behaved well, and early in the afternoon she ran into the shelter of Port Newry. A day was spent among the islands of the Newry Group, and at 4 am. on 1oth April the anchor was tripped and a start made for Thompson’s Creek and the O’Connell River, some 4o miles north of Newry and 70 miles from Mackay. A fresh breeze from the west took the ZLassze well on her way, but later on it died away, and it was nearly sundown ere the yacht dropped anchor outside the bar of Thompson’s Creek, there to wait until r1 p.m. for the tide to rise and make the bar navigable. The next four days were spent in the vicinity of Thompson’s Creek, and Mr. Nielson’s note-book contains many interesting notes on bird life. The Great-billed Heron was noted—a single bird only—and hopes were entertained that the mate might be found sitting somewhere in the vicinity, but a close search did not reveal her. White-bellied Sea-Eagles (4. lewcogaster) were noted, and several pairs of the White-headed species (H. gtr- renera) were seen crab-hunting on the mud flats. In the mangroves, nests of the latter species were marked tor future reference. Two species of Bittern were observed—viz., the Little Mangrove (Lutorides stagnatlis) and the Yellow-necked (Dupetor gouldz)—and nests of the former were found in the mangroves, overhanging the water. A pair of White Cockatoos (Cacatua galertta) were seen passing in and out of a hollow tree ; investigation showed that the hollow contained water, which the birds were drinking. Many pairs of Pied Oyster- catchers (Hematopus longtrostris) were noted on the beaches, and Stone-Plovers (Surhinus grallarius) were disturbed along the sand-ridges. In the mangroves the Black Butcher- Bird (Cracticus quoyz) was plentiful, as were Drongos (Chibta bracteata), Cuckoo-Shrikes (Graucalus melanops), and Pied Caterpillar-eaters (Lalage leucomelena). Overhanging the water were many nests of the Brown-breasted Fly-eater (Pseudogerygone brunnerpectus) placed close to and seeming to enjoy the protection of very active families of large yellow hornets. A pair of Ospreys (Pandion leucocephalus) were noted sitting close to their nest, and one of the birds held a piece of stick in its claw—clear evidence that it was about to commence repairing the family residence. A Black-shouldered Kite (A/anus axillaris) and a few Whistling Eagles (Halzastur sphenurus) were noted, and on the bank of the creek a few Whistling Ducks (Dendro- cycna arcuata) and Shelducks (Casarca tadornotdes) were feeding. Many Little Cormorants (Phalacrocorax melanoleucus) were found nesting in the mangroves overhanging the creek; some of the nests contained fresh eggs, others young birds. Snake- necked Darters (Plotus nove-hollandi@) were also nesting in the Emu 1st Jan. I40 CORNWALL, Notes on the Gvreat-billed Heron. vicinity, and a Barred-shouldered Dove (Geopelza humeralis) was sitting on a pair of eggs just chipped. Out on the plains were hundreds of Native Companions (Axtzgone austratlasiana), and one pair of eggs was found. Other birds noted in the open country were Night-Herons (WVycticorax caledonicus), near a lagoon; Wedge-tailed Eagles (Uvoaétus audax), Brown Hawks (Hreracidea orzentalzs), Harriers (Czrcus gouldz), Egrets (Herodias tzmortensts), White-fronted Herons (Wotophoyx nove-hollande), Black Ducks (Azas superciliosa), Bustard (Eupodotis australts), Straw-necked Ibis (Geronticus sptnzcollzs), and White Ibis (/bzs molucca). The weather had now become very dirty, heavy south-east squalls, with rain, making things very unpleasant; but a move was made to the O’Connell River, which, at its mouth, is separated from Thompson’s Creek by a sandbank at low water only. On the morning of 15th April Mr. Nielson spent many hours rowing about the river and the branch creeks in the dinghy, searching for the coveted nest ; but when he returned, tired and a bit disappointed, to the yacht, his companions, who had been left to hunt for crabs and other delicacies (the while keeping their eyes open for nests), handed him a pair of eggs which they had taken from a large nest in the mangroves, and which he at once saw could be none other than those so ardently wished for. Under his companions’ pilotage he struggled through nearly a mile of slimy mangrove mud, and when the nest was reached he was delighted to see the bird close to it. The nest was composed of coarse sticks, many being 3 and 34 of an inch thick. There was practically no lining, and the nest was so flat it was strange that the eggs did not roll out. Dimensions of nest, 48 inches across and 1g inches thick, placed in a mangrove tree overhanging a small gutter, and about 15 feet above low water. The eggs, two in number, were fresh. They are swollen oval in shape, and rather pointed at one end. Colour, a beautiful light bluish-green. Shell coarse and slightly clossy, minutely yet distinctly pitted all over. Measurements. ~“(@) 2472-% 1:8'5.inches';) (0) 2.80 1.9 inehes: Situated in the same tree—in fact, on the same branch, and only some 18 inches from the first nest—were the remains of one which had evidently been used the previous season. After leaving the O’Connell River the Zassze ran on to the Proserpine River, where several days were spent among the birds. No more nests of Avdea sumatrana were found, though one or two pairs of birds were noted. The next mention of Ardea sumatrana is under date 15th May, 1909, and comes from Clairview Creek, in Broad Sound, some 70 miles to the southward of Mackay and 5 miles south of Flock-Pigeon Island. Where did this islet get its name? THE Emu, Vod. 1X. PEAT ESeXIN. ‘(DubAoUNsS vapPAP) UOIDE{ Peffiq-}ee1y JO Sunox pure 4son “NOST3IN *H Ad ‘OLOHd WV WOYS Vol. IX. } 1910 | CoRNWALL, Notes on the Great-billed Heron. TT: There are certainly no Pigeons on it, with the exception of a very few Barred-shouldered Doves. White Nutmeg-Pigeons (Myristiccvora spilorrhoa) do not fly so far south, their southern limit being Ridge Island, some 20 miles south-east of Cape Palmerston. To return to Ardea sumatrana. About 3 miles up Clairview Creek, where the mangroves are very thick, a Heron was flushed, but no nest was found. Half a mile further on a pair of these birds were noted; and, leaving his man in charge of the dingy, Mr. Nielson broke his way into the mangrove swamp, and, after some little searching, discovered the nest. Instead of a pair of rare eggs, it held a young bird. It being too late for photographic work he returned to the yacht, but visited the spot again next morning to obtain photographs of the interesting subject (see Plate XIV.) The nest, like the one at O’Connell River, was very roughly built, being composed of dead mangrove sticks, with no lining. It appeared to be a very old nest, which had been roughly repaired year after year. Dimensions of nest—diameter, 44 inches; egg cavity, 5 inches; very flat; depth of whole, 15 inches. Placed in red mangrove tree, 6 feet from the mud, and not more than 4 feet from high water mark. The pair of eggs of Ardea sumatrana collected by Mr. Henry Nielson at O’Connell River are now in the collection of Mr. H. L. White, of Belltrees, Scone, N.S.W., to whom they were presented by the finder. A Trip to Ninth Island, Bass Strait. By FRANK M. LITTLER, F.E.S., LAUNCESTON. THROUGH the courtesy of the owners of this island, which lies off the north-eastern coast of Tasmania and in sight of land, I recently spent, in company with my cousin, Mr. J. G. Littler, a short holiday investigating the bird-life there. Ninth or Twenty-day Island is about 300 acres in extent, not counting the rocky foreshore, and is principally rocks and tussock-grass, with patches of good grass sown during the past few years. Its total length approximates half a mile; its width is only about a couple of hundred yards at its widest place. It is practically flat on top, with its sides abrupt in places and broken by gulches. In two places on the southern side there are gentle slopes leading to the top. The island is bleak and desolate-looking in the extreme, especially when first seen in the grey dawn under a leaden sky in conjunction with a choppy sea. The formation is distinctly volcanic ; in several curious gullies between the rocks below high water mark are evidences of molten rock having been forced up in great agitation and then suddenly I42 LirtLer, A Trip to Ninth Island, Bass Strait. ee ist Jan. solidified. A few patches of bracken ferns here and there constitute the only “timber,” nevertheless there is plenty of drift- wood for use in the hut, which is two-roomed and watertight. Water is in plenty, but somewhat hard, from two or three soaks. The island is primarily used as a grazing ground for sheep and cattle. It is also a breeding-ground of Black Oyster-catchers (Hematopus unicolor), Pacific and Silver Gulls (Gabzanus paceficus and Larus nove-hollandie@), Sooty Petrels (Puffinus), White- faced Storm-Petrels (Pelagodroma marina), White-breasted Cormorants (Phalacrocorax gouldi),and Little Penguins (Zudyptula menor). As it is in the fly-line of migration between Tasmania and the mainland, many species of land-birds make it a port of call for afew hours. In addition to this, owing to its being in proximity to the land, several species come off from the north-east coast for the day and return at night. The only seemingly resident species is the Pipit (Azthus australis). My primary object in visiting this island was to fill in some blanks in my knowledge regarding the habits of some of the sea-birds, for inclusion in my forthcoming book on Tasmanian birds, shortly to be placed in the printer's hands. Ninth Island was chosen on account of its accessibility, but as it turned out my stay, which was to have been but a week, extended to nearly a fort- night, owing to the boat being unable to approach the island on account of heavy weather. As a consequence, both my cousin and myself were reduced to almost starvation rations during the latter part of our stay. The first birds to come under our notice were White- breasted Cormorants (Phalacrocorax gouldt). On a rocky isthmus running out from the south-east corner of the island was a large rookery with incubating operations in full swing. There were between 100 and 150 nests, the majority containing eggs. The rookery was divided into two parts, the portion on the landward side containing eggs absolutely fresh; some of the nests furthest inland were only just ready for their reception; the nests towards the extremity of the isthmus contained eggs some- what incubated. They were bulky structures of variously coloured sea-weed ; the egg cavity occasionally contained fragments of tussock-grass, but usually no lining other than fragments of sea débris was used. They were placed about 2 feet apart, on top of the rocks, which were heavily lime-washed. After taking some photographs of the sitting birds—for they allowed one to approach to within three yards on this our first visit—and the nests, a few clutches of eggs were secured, then the birds left in peace. On again visiting the rookery a few days later, it was found that the Silver Gulls (Larus nove-hollandia) had played havoc among the eggs. Later we watched through our field- glasses these Gulls quietly drop down among the nests and steal eggs from unprotected ones right under the noses of birds sitting picky Ee. LitTLER, A Trip to Ninth Island, Bass Strait. I43 bo} fo) hard by. From observations it was found that the Cormorants were afraid of the Silver Gulls, and would not return to protect their nests while any of the impudent robbers were close by. On other parts of the island the remains of extensive rookeries were evident. It was noted that when this Cormorant is in full flight its wing action much resembles that of the Black Duck (Anas superciliosa). For the first few days Silver Gulls were scarce, but after that they greatly increased, and a large flock was always to be seen in the vicinity of the Cormorant rookery. As is usually the case, they quarrelled much among themselves, and, to make up for any bullying received from the Pacific Gulls, harried the Cormorants unmercifully. Pacific Gulls were not at all plentiful, never more than a dozen individuals being seen in the vicinity of the island at one time. They were mostly fully adult birds, only two or three being in second year plumage. On this island, where there are large rookeries of White-faced Storm-Petrels (Pelagodroma marina), of which more anon, we found that the Pacific Gull was respons- ible for the death of great numbers of this dainty little Petrel, for, on moonlight nights especially, it could both be seen and heard “hawking” over the rookeries, and every now and then pouncing down on a bird. Gadzanus pacificus is a noble bird on the wing, reminding one much of the Swamp-Hawk (Czrcus gould?) in the way in which it sails in great circles, and in small companies “hawks” backwards and forwards over the same ground. When progressing at what might be termed an ordin- ary rate of speed, it beats the air with its wings 100 times in 80 seconds. When sailing directly in the eye of the wind on motionless wings, and wishful of changing its course either to the right or the left, the tips of the wings are slightly depressed and the body brought round by a slight lateral movement of the head and tail, but not the faintest resemblance of a flap is given. Its cry, especially when “hawking” in pairs, might often be mistaken for the short bark of the terrier dog. Along the rocky foreshore were to be seen Black Oyster- catchers (Hematopus unicolor) either in pairs or small companies. It was noted that they rarely perched more than a yard or two from the water’s edge, even when merely resting. On two occasions only were birds seen to fly above high water mark ; the furthest out rocks seemed to have an irresistible attraction forthem. Their sharp, penetrating cry was nearly always uttered when in full flight. Before going to Ninth Island we were informed that large numbers of White-faced Storm-Petrels (Pelagodroma marina) nested there, so naturally we expected to witness some interest- ing sights when these birds came in to clean out their burrows. On arriving on the island on the 22nd September, a keen search was made for evidences of burrows of this tiny Petrel. We were 144 LittLer, A Trip to Ninth Island, Bass Strait. a ist Jan. not long in discovering signs that these birds had commenced to come in to clean out their homes in preparation for the breeding season. How long prior to our arrival they had been coming in it is impossible to say. As we afterwards discovered, not only were the burrows driven under the tussock-grass almost every- where, but also in the soft soil on the top and slopes of the island. An investigation showed that in these latter places the burrows were from 2 feet 6 inches to 3 feet in length ; many were curved, some almost forming the letter L. The nesting chamber was some 6 inches in diameter, with a few fragments of vegetable débrzs on the floor. It was our practice every evening, after watching the Little Penguins landing on some part of the island, to spend some hours on the various rookeries armed with a powerful acetylene lamp, watching the various birds. We found that by walking slowly and only speaking in whispers we could move with impunity and observe the birds cleaning out their burrows, courting, fighting, and what not. We found that the first White-faced Storm-Petrel arrived each evening punctually at 6.50. By 8 o'clock the majority of the birds had arrived and were in their burrows hard at work “ spring cleaning.” It was avery pretty sight to see them alight and seek their burrows; they cannot walk after the manner of ordinary birds, but flit over the ground, just tipping it with their toes. They gave one the impression of being on springs. As soon as a bird arrived at the entrance of its burrow it would stop and dart suddenly out of sight. Even with hundreds of birds. of this species round us not a sound was heard while they were on the wing, but when in their burrows a mouse-like squeaking, only slightly louder, could be heard. With many hundreds of birds underground, the noise was distinctly audible. From the 22nd to the 25th, Storm-Petrels were only fairly numerous; then a curious thing occurred—not a single bird put in an appearance for three nights. On the 29th they reappeared in vast numbers, and continued every night while we were on the island. No prettier sight can be imagined than hundreds, perhaps thousands, of these dainty little creatures passing and repassing in the rays of the lamp, coming from darkness into light and disappearing into darkness as they flitted over the rookeries. They resembled giant moths, and appeared as thick as flakes in a snow-shower onacalm day. Again and again we caught individuals in our hands as they flew past, and released them again. It was found that after being held in the hand for a few seconds and then the fingers slowly opened, the birds would remain either quietly resting or poised with outstretched wings for quite an appreciable time. On suddenly turning the light on to any bird on the ground, it was always possible to pick it up without any attempt at escape on its part. As to the number of birds on the various rookeries, it is impossible to arrive at any estimate beyond stat- Vol. IX. IQIO _Littter, 4 Trip to Ninth Island, Bass Strait. T45 ing that the number must have run into some thousands. Not all the birds left at dawn, for in several instances a pair was found in the burrow during the day. Pacific Gulls are not the only enemies they have to contend against at Ninth Island, for a couple of domestic cats run wild, in high condition, were seen. Scores of dead Storm-Petrels in various stages of disruption were scattered about the rookeries, and in several places among the rocks on the hill-sides were heaps of bones and feathers. Penguins, also, account for a number, for they peck them as they search for their burrows, and one peck means death to the delicate Petrels. Naturally a sharp look-out was kept for Mutton-Birds (Puffinus tenutrostris), but it was not until the 2gth that the first bird put in an appearance, and that at 6.50 p.m., or simul- taneously with the Storm-Petrels. | There is but one rookery of this species on the island, and that on a portion of the southern side, on a gentle slope. The burrows, which are moderately shallow, are driven into the soft soil without any protecting shelter in the way of tussock-grass, &c. It was observed that the birds did not at once enter their burrows on alighting, but rested on the ground outside for some time as though utterly worn out. The mouths and throats of a couple of individuals secured for taxidermical purposes were full of a pasty substance of the appearance and smell of semi-masticated tinned salmon. The rookery was but a small one, numbering between 500 and 1,000 birds. On the morning of the 2nd of October an immense flight of Mutton-Birds was witnessed. A continuous stream passed by the island for some three hours. The birds were flying west to east ; after passing the island they bunched into great flocks, flying low over the water, every now and then settling for a few minutes. They gave one the impression of gigantic swarms of bees; they eventually dis- appeared to the north. Little Penguins (Eudyptula minor) came in for close and prolonged study, with interesting results. They were extremely plentiful all over the island, but from evidences not as plentiful as a few years ago. When two Little Penguins are in a burrow it is always a matter of ease to separate the sexes, the male being much stouter in build. | When the pair are teased, the female remains silent at the extreme back of the burrow, while the male boldly attacks the stick, or whatever is thrust in, hissing loudly the while. Another point of difference exists in the bills. That of the male is a stout, formidable weapon, while that of the female is much slimmer and weaker in appearance. We found the above differences constant in the great hordes of Penguins that came under our notice. kwt-kwt,” only to be heard at that hour of the day. More often than not I was then shivering over my freshly-kindled fire. This species is double- brooded. A pair were building on 4th October. I had rather bad luck with the nests I found. Several were destroyed by Crows or Babblers, and others I had to leave before the eggs were laid. This was very vexatious, as the parent birds are very wary and will not go back to the nest when watched. SHORT-BILLED TREE-TIT (.S7zzcrornis brevirostris).—Only met with in the eucalypt saplings at Milly Pool, and around Dural station, to the north-west. I was too late for eggs. SOUTHERN FLY-EATER (Pseudogerygone culicivora)—Distinctly rare. One or two seen or heard near Bore Well. BLACK-AND-WHITE FANTAIL ( RAzpidura tricolor).—Breeding in scattered pairs throughout the district. Several nests found, but only examined for Cuckoos’ eggs. This was another early bird, and at Bore Well I was reminded at daybreak that “I must please be strict”—in my general behaviour, I suppose. I had the vexation to lose a specimen of a AAzpidura that may have only been 2. frezssz, but may equally well have been A. albtcauda. It was the only one I saw during the trip. GROUND CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Péeropodocys phasianella).—1 only met with this interesting bird immediately around Wiluna, and again near Milly Pool. It was distinctly uncommon, though by no means timid, as I often saw a pair amongst the stores and private houses comprising the main street of the township. The pairs were widely scattered, and nests consequently difficult to find. It was not till I got to Milly Pool that I had any luck. On my arrival there young were already on the wing, but I noticed a pair of old birds which seemed to hang around a particular group of York gums. On 18th October I visited the spot, and caught sight of a nest on the topmost branch of a York gum, the sitting bird, with her long tail, being plainly visible. I had never taken eggs of this species before, and though I did not like the look of the slender branch holding the nest, I resolved to climb as far as I could, and see how things looked on a closer inspection. The nest was fully 30 feet from the hard-baked ground below, but I climbed to within 8 feet of it without any difficulty. There was one more fork, and if this would only bear my weight I had my prize within my grasp. I comforted myself with the thought that York gums are exceptionally tough, and took the risk. I had my reward in taking a record clutch of four beautiful eggs. All were perfect and typical specimens except one, which had less gloss than the others. These eggs were a second brood and quite fresh. BLACK-FACED CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Coracina robusta).—This is a migratory species on the Murchison, and it was not until 13th August that I saw the first. This was at Bore Well. In the gums around Milly Pool a few pairs were breeding. I noted several nests. In each case they were placed in Vol. 1X. EMU, THE PLATE XVII. MOOTLIHM “1 “4 AB ‘OLOHd VY WOYS (UNWULBADUL YUOSOJIUID) PIIG-punory pos}UsA-yor[q fo SON Vol. sae WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. 195 1910 the outermost fork of some horizontal branch of a flooded gum. I was not to be tempted. It was a great risk, even armed with a 10-foot scoop, so treacherous are these trees. WHITE-SHOULDERED CATERPILLAR-EATER (Lalage tricolor).—Another migratory species, which I found moderately common around Bore Well in September. I took a typical clutch of eggs on the 13th of that month. It was also nesting sparingly near Milly Pool. At this period the surrounding country was a mass of blue and yellow, owing to the innumerable flowers of Brunonia australis and Podolepts aristata. BLACK-VENTED GROUND-BIRD (Czvclosoma marginatum).—l was well acquainted with this species, having obtained half a dozen specimens in the neighbourhood of Lake Austin some six years previously. A pair of these have been mounted, and for several years have been on exhibition in the Perth Museum. Unfortunately, I left Lake Austin for the neighbourhood of Yalgoo, a locality much nearer the coast, before the breeding season had really commenced. On arriving at Wiluna, | soon found my birds in the ferruguious country in and around the auriferous belt, and, not being a shy bird, I have more than once seen individuals within a quarter of a mile of Wiluna post-office. To find the nest and eggs of this species was one of the objects of my journey. But it was not immediately around Wiluna that I was successful. The reason of this was not far to seek : I was in another locality at the best time of the breeding season. However, there were a few pairs to be found in the low ranges bordering the spinifex plain near Bore Well. Having previously shot specimens to be certain the local birds were not referable to C. cinnamomeum, | contented myself with watching the pair nearest to my camp. Soon after sunrise the male perches himself on some dead branch or other point of vantage, and utters his rather plaintive and monotonous call. This may be represented by the vowels 7 and e. The is uttered short, and is rather rapidly repeated, the final e being long-drawn and half a note higher in tone. It may be perhaps expressed as follows :— “* [-{-1-1-i-€.” This call is repeated at short intervals, and two or three males will often reply to one another. Provided the bird remains at the same place, I never found any difficulty in locating the sound. It varies a little in its apparent distance through the bird turning its head about. At times the call is uttered from the ground, and the male bird frequently takes a run between each call. It is not so easy to locate the sound under these conditions. The method | adopted was to take a compass bearing on the spot from which the sound appeared to travel, and then to lay a straight stick pointing in the right direction. I repeated this for several mornings and, estimating the distance, I followed my line and almost walked right up to the nest. The female sat close, but flew right away when I flushed her. The nest was on an ironstone flat, in fairly open country, but close at hand was a very Shallow watercourse, with a line of large mulga and other bushes growing along its banks. In the shade of these bushes herbaceous plants were plentiful, and the nest itself was sheltered by a very small grey-leaved salt-bush of not more than a foot in height, and barely large enough to shade the nest from the morning sun. The nest was a moderately’ deep depression in the ground, from its neatness and even shape probably scratched out by the female bird. It was lined with strips of soft bark and a few acacia leaves, or leaves of the gidgi tree. The eggs were two in number, and of a very pale buff in ground colour ; the markings were small but numerous, and in the form of dots of irregular shape, distributed all over the shells, but more numerous at the largerend. In colour they were of various shades of brown, with a few underlying spots of neutral tint. The eggs were a fairly even pair, both in size, markings, and shape, and were slightly attenuated ovals. The skins of the birds I had shot previous to finding this nest had been placed in the hands of Mr. A, J. North, . : 1, c ~ Emu 196 WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. ae of the Australian Museum, Sydney, for confirmation of identity. Soon afterwards there was published one of the “ Records” of that institution (vol. vil., No. 4, 1909), under the date 30th August, 1909. This record describes the plumage of the female of C7zclosoma marginatum (Sharpe), in addition to other interesting information, and purports to have been taken from askin shot by Mr, C. G. Gibson, Assistant Geologist to this State. The skin referred to was received so long ago as July, 1908. If this specimen was in a recognizable condition, it is odd indeed that such an interesting bird should so long remain undescribed. Mr. Gibson was recalled from his work at Wiluna very shortly after obtaining this specimen, and was sent out as geologist, on behalf of this State, to accompany the Transcontinental Railway survey party. This party, however, returned to Perth prior to Christmas of the same year, so that, had further information been required by Mr. North, Mr. Gibson was at hand to supply it. Czmclo- soma marginatum happens to be not only a very loose-plumaged bird, but, in addition, the skin about the loins, head, and neck is remarkably tender. I defy anyone but a practised hand to make a skin without losing a large percentage of the feathers and badly tearing the skin, and, even if fairly successful in that direction, to restore the various feather tracts to their proper positions in the completed skin. Mr. Gibson deserves every credit for his interesting field notes, but why these should be necessary in describ- ing the plumage of the female it is hard to see. Mr. North has recently described two new species of birds collected by myself at Lake Way, and without applying to myself or to Mr. H. L. White for further particulars other than were attached to the skins. In addition to describing the plumage of the female, the record contains an excellent photograph of the nest and eggs taken zz sztz by Mr. Gibson. This is accompanied by a description of the eggs and nest by Mr. North. According to the report, Mr. Gibson took nests with eggs on 13th June, 30th August, and Ist September, 1908. There is some discrepancy here. On the two last dates Mr. Gibson was away on the Transcontinental Railway survey. There can, however, be no doubt of the identity of these eggs, but it is as well to be accurate in records of this nature. It is probable that the two latter clutches were collected by some local man on behalf of Mr. Gibson.* I do not consider Cizclosoma marginatum a shy bird. As _ before mentioned, it still frequents country where active mining operations are in progress, and can be seen within easy distance of the main street of Wiluna. All that is necessary is to walk through the bush quietly, keeping one’s eyes well ahead. At the first alarm, perhaps, a pair may run under a bush, but if the observer stands motionless the female, followed by the male, soon comes out again, and both will quietly feed right up to one’s feet if reason- able quiet is maintained. As to its geographical distribution, Mr. Gibson is approximately correct. Probably its southern limit overlaps the northern limit of C. castanonotum about the latitude of Menzies or Leonora. How far east it extends is unknown. Westwards I have met with it within 100 miles of the coast, in the latitude of Geraldton ; but, despite much search for it on the Pilbarra goldfield, I failed to find it there. No doubt it extends much further north than Wiluna. I have little doubt that the specimens of C. castanonotum recorded as shot near Separation Well (see Campbell’s “ Nests and Eggs,” p. 256), should have been referred to the present species and not to the latter. * From this somewhat contradictory evidence it would appear as if Mr. Gibson’s specimen of the female bird was too mutilated for detailed description, and that Mr. North fell back on the specimens of both sexes collected by Mr. Whitlock, which were placed in his (Mr, North’s) hands for identification, or, rather, for confirmation, by Mr. H. L. White. However, Mr. Whitlock can claim to have cleared up the indification of this little-known and interesting bird.—Ebs, 1“ by re Vol. ae 1910 WuitLock, On the East Murchison. IQ7 WHITE-BROWED BABBLER (Pomatostomus superciliosus).—VDistributed throughout the district. The breeding ranges of this and the next species overlap in these latitudes. RED-BREASTED BABBLER (Pomatostomus rubeculus).—\ only met with this species around Milly Pool and further to the north-west, along the Peak Hill stock route. I question if it occurs much further south. I cannot recollect seeing it away from the flooded gums, either near Lake Way or in the north-west of this State. It is probably double-brooded. Young were on the wing when I arrived at Milly Pool, and I was watching a newly built nest, in the hope of getting eggs, till the day I left—viz., 6th November. FiELD-WREN (Calamanthus campestris)—A Calamanthus was not uncommon in certain tracts of samphires around Lake Violet. I also saw a pair near Dural station, in an extensive salt-bush flat. I shot one or two for purposes of identification. I could see little, if any, distinction between these specimens and others I shot around Lake Austin. The latter were submitted to Mr. A. J. Campbell by Mr. A. W. Milligan some six years ago, the verdict being C. campestris. The Lake Way birds were sent to Mr. North, and were returned with the note that they were intermediate between C. campestris and C. tsatellinus, with a leaning towards the latter. If this be the case, then C. zsadel/inus is only an interior form of C. campestris, connected by “existing” links. Thinking my birds were only C. campestrts I did not seriously hunt for their nests until too late in the season. This Field-Wren breeds early, and young birds were on the wing by the first week in August. Apparently it is not double-brooded, as later on in the season I saw family parties feeding amongst the samphires. BROWN SONG-LARK (Cinclorhamphus cruralis).—Local and by no means common, being confined to the sand-hills around Lake Violet, with a few pairs inhabiting the extensive salt-bush flats along the Nannine track and the Peak Hill stock route. Rurous SONG-LARK (Cinuclorhamphus rufescens).—A pair or two near Lake Violet, but not uncommon on the big flats around Milly Pool. I obtained one nest with three handsome eggs at the foot of a small bush The nest was a poor, ill-constructed affair of a few dried grasses. Date, 24th September. TRICOLOURED CHAT (Ephthianura tricolor).—These lovely birds were not uncommon in suitable localities throughout the district. They seemed to prefer the open salt-bush flats. They were fairly plentiful around my camp at the north end of Lake Violet, but they had only just commenced to build when I left for Bore Well. On my return from there (14th September) I espied a female sitting on her nest as we drove by. The nest was within 3 feet of the road. It contained but two eggs. ORANGE-FRONTED CHAT (£ph¢hianura aurtfrons).—Much commoner than the last. I even saw them in the streets of Wiluna. In the samphires around Lake Violet they were numerous, and | found a dozen nests without troubling to hunt for them. Some contained three eggs, others only two. The parent birds sat close, and would return to the nest whilst I was near. I more often flushed the male from the nest than the female. Perhaps the latter takes her turn at night. All the nests were low down, but seldom actually on the ground. This species was breeding near Milly Pool, but it was distinctly rare there. I was timing the period of incubation in one instance. I called at the nest just when I expected the young to be hatched and found it empty. Ephthianura albifrons, though frequent around Lake Austin, is a note- worthy absentee at Lake Way, not once being observed during this trip. LARGE-BILLED Tir (Acanthiza robustirostrts).— This was one of my old Lake Austin friends, where I discovered the species in 1903. It is an Emu 198 WuitLock, On the East Murchison. st April inconspicuous species, and may easily be mistaken for the more common A. uropygialis, with which it often consorts. It was its harsher call notes that attracted my attention to the first pair I procured. I was not long in picking it out again at Wiluna, though I had not heard the notes for fully six years. It has a low-pitched, twittering song, which is not unpleasing, but can only be heard when the bird is at close quarters. In addition, there are certain loud and clear joyous notes, very similar to those of A. uvopygalis. The harsh “ Thrip-thrip” seems to be a call note or alarm note, and is uttered by the male, and responded to by the female, when building operations are in progress. According to my observations, the female does all the building, the male hanging around the nesting site and keeping an eye on things in general. The favourite situation for the nest is a medium- sized or even small narrow-leaved mulga bush, growing in company with two or three similar bushes, but often quite isolated. Where the mulga is large and growing in thickets it is useless to look for the nest, although the bird itself may be found feeding there. The nest is a pretty little structure, and has been described by Mr. A. W. Milligan. Spiders’ webs and cocoons enter largely into its construction. Some nests are much more profusely lined than others. In all I have found perhaps thirty nests. By far the greater number were at a height of from 4 to 6 feet from the ground. One I found in a pine tree was at a height of fully 15 feet, and another was only a few inches from the ground in a small broad-leaved salt-bush. These were the only two nests I observed that were not built in the customary narrow-leaved mulga. I found both these latter nests on the Yalgoo goldfield. A full clutch is invariably three. The eggs are exceptionally fragile, and as a rule very well marked, chiefly at the larger end, with rust-red spots. Two handsome clutches had the markings all massed together at the apex, and another egg in a third clutch was quite white. Curiously enough, I shot a specimen of this Acanz¢hiza nearly white, but it showed sufficient of the snuff-coloured upper tail coverts to make identity pretty certain. Compared with A. wropygzalis, and other species found in the south-west of this State, I consider A. robustirostris a silent bird. It is especially quiet and wary when the young are hatched. I have often stood by a nest containing young, and waited in vain for the parents to show themselves. An easy way to find the nest is to stand within sight of the male, when he is fussing about, uttering the harsh call note, and watch for the female. Presently she may be observed flying from bush to bush, until she disappears into the topmost twigs of some solitary mulga. Ten chances to one there you will find her nest, which, from the ingenious way the narrow leaves of the mulga are woven into the sides, is by no means a conspicuous object. On the Yalgoo goldfield I obtained an egg of the Bronze-Cuckoo (Chalcococcyx basalzs) in a nest of this Acanthiza. The species is double-brooded, the breeding season commencing early in July and lasting till the beginning of October. If this bird lived in agricul- tural districts it would be a useful little friend to the farmer and orchardist, as it devours numbers of grubs and caterpillars, as I have myself witnessed. WHITLOCK Tit (Acanthiza whitlocki, North).—This was one of two new species I procured on the East Murchison, and at the request of Mr. H. L. White Mr. A. J. North paid me the compliment of naming it after me. It somewhat resembles in appearance Acanthiza apicaizs of our south-western coastal districts. A full description will be found in Zhe Victorian Naturalist, vol. xxvi., No. 5, pp. 55, 56. The first pair I met with were in a thicket of tea-tree scrub bordering the big lagoon in Lake Violet. They were closely searching the sprays of foliage for insect life. They were very silent, and though I stood watching them for some time not a sound did they utter. I was puzzled. The only way out of the difficulty was to shoot them. This I did, securing both without serious damage. I could see I had got an Acanthiza which somewhat resembled A. afzcal’s, but both the markings on the throat and breast and THE Emu, Vol. 1X. PEAKE SMVillité Nest of the Whitlock Tit (Acanthiza whitlock1). (Somewhat dilapidated by young Bronze-Cuckoo). FROM A PHOTO, BY F. L. WHITLOCK. ag % a Rein Mek Vx } Or oe = ay 4 THE Emu, Vol. 1X. PLATE XIX, Nest of Chestnut-rumped Tit (Acanthiza uropygialts), in pipe of bark. FROM A PHOTO. BY F, L. WHITLOCK Vol. a WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. I99 19190 the general tint of the plumage lacked the boldness and depth of these features in the latter. Again, A. aficalzs is an animated, fussy species, always restless, and seldom silent. I resolved to keep an eye open for others. About a mile away, and in similar scrub, I came across a second pair, and, though it was early in the breeding season, I resolved to watch them, in the hope that they were building. After the exercise of much patience, I followed them to a sheltered spot in the scrub which they seemed loth to leave. There I spied a neat, dome-shaped nest, placed low down, without any concealment, in the tea-tree scrub. It looked remarkably sub- stantial for an Acanthiza’s nest. But there were the two birds, apparently anxious at my presence, and no other birds at hand except Z@niopyeia castanotis, and, despite the large size of the nest, I was forced to the conclu- sion that this pair of Acanthizas were the real owners. However, I was completely taken in. The nest appeared to be completed, but it was not until more than a fortnight later it contained eggs. They were unmistakably those of Pyrrholemus (Sericornis) brunnea. I met with other pairs of this Acanthzza later on. It was not confined exclusively to the tea-tree scrub around Lake Violet, as I met with a single pair in some fairly thick country near the township of Wiluna, and again I found several pairs near Milly Pool. It is by no means a noisy or fussy bird, like so many of its congeners, but appears to be somewhat of a mimic. Near Wiluna I heard it utter the “ Thrip-thrip” of A. rodustzrostris, but its most usual notes were an imitation of the call of the Narrow-billed Bronze- Cuckoo (Chalcococcyx basalts). There is some evidence that the mimicry of these latter notes has its disadvantages, for on 8th October I found the real nest of this species in tea-tree scrub at Lake Violet, and it contained a young Cuckoo just ready to fly. I handled the latter bird, to the great agitation of the foster-parents, which actually flew in my face, brushing me with their wings. I even placed my hand over one of them. After such a display of courage I let the young Cuckoo go again, and contented myself with photo- graphing the nest, despite the fact of its being much tumbled and disordered by its intruding tenant. At Milly Pool another pair were feeding a Bronze- Cuckoo, which I caught. All this rather suggests that the mimicking of the Cuckoo notes attracts the female Cuckoo to the vicinity of the Acan- thiza’s nest, and she takes the opportunity to foist her egg upon the lawful owners. I found a second nest from which the young had flown, also near Milly Pool. This was very low down in a small salt-bush. The parents, with their brood, were near at hand. This nest, too, was much disordered, so that I cannot give a precise description of it. It was dome-shaped, with the entrance at the side but not so near the top as in the case of a Malurus nest. Outwardly it was constructed of soft strips of bark, wound round rather than interwoven. The interior was lined with finer bark, with a few feathers and flakes of rabbit fur. The Lake Violet nest was similar, but the remains of an old chaft-bag had been used in the lining, and a piece may be seen in the photograph hanging out of the entrance. (See illustration.) CHESTNUT-RUMPED Tir (Acanthiza uropygial’s).—A very common bird throughout the district, but rather avoiding the scrub immediately around Lake Violet. 1 found many nests containing from two to four eggs. With one exception all were in hollow stems of bushes, some of them remarkably small. The walls of the nests were thin, but the lining always profuse, consisting of fur, feathers, string, or any soft material to hand. Despite the situation of the nest, it is a true dome-shaped structure, with the entrance near the top. The species is double-brooded. The exceptionally placed nest alluded to above was built in a pipe of bark which had peeled off a dead mulga, but from which it was still suspended. I photographed this nest, as it is exceptionally substantial. (See illustration.) It was eventually torn from its position. There were fresh Emu tracks near by. Emu 200 Wuitiock, On the East Murchison. Se Mig SMALL-BILLED TIT (Acanthiza tenuirostris).—-1 was glad to renew my acquaintance with this Acanthiza, which | added to the avifauna of this State in 1903. I obtained the first Western Australian specimens at Lake Austin in that year. I believe these specimens were referred to Mr. Zietz, who declared them identical with the types of 4. fenuzrostris from South Aus- tralia. There is yet a large tract of country to be bridged over before the geographical range becomes continuous. In Western Australia I have as yet never met with this Acanthiza away from the samphires. Indeed, it seems to exclusively haunt the margins of the salt lakes, where this plant and a few varieties of the Salsolacee abound. I cannot recollect ever seeing it perch in a bush, or even in tea-tree scrub, though the latter is abundant enough around certain of its haunts. It is an inconspicuous little bird, gifted with very feeble powers of song, though its call note is distinct and peculiar. To me these notes resemble the syllables ‘“Tip-tip-tip” uttered rapidly but with a distinct glassy ring about them. Possibly it has a song, but I have only heard this call note between the sexes. I have watched the parents feeding their young, and have also watched pairs before the breeding season had set in. They seem to spend most of their time busily searching the samphires or salt-bush for insect life as they flit from bush to bush, and as the observer moves towards them they are rather wary, and, unlike other species of Acamth7za, will not permit of a near approach. I was very keen on getting the nest and eggs of this species. The nest has already been described by Mr. A. W. Milligan, from an example I obtained containing young at Lake Austin. It was only after repeated visits to Lake Violet that I located a pair, and, as I knew this Acanthiza was an early breeder, I spared no trouble and pains in my efforts to find their nest. All was in vain until too late for eggs, for, though I did eventually find the nest of this particular pair, the young had already flown. In dealing with these small species one wants a reasonable amount of calm, sunny weather. In the remarkable season of 1909 such weather was conspicuous by its ‘absence. Bitterly cold and strong east winds, often varied by rains from the south or south-west, accompanied by still heavier gales, prevailing well into September. However, despite my non-success with this particular pair, I was not beaten. On the 26th August I went to take a photograph of the big lagoon in Lake Violet. My objective point was the highest sand-hill I could find. To reach.this I had to cross a samphire flat and then pass through a small belt of tea-tree scrub. On the other side of this was a mixed growth of samphire and salt-bush, with a few dead or dying bushes of various species. I was just entering this little belt of vegetation when I heard the familiar ‘‘ Tip-tip-tip” of A. /enudrostris. I pulled up, and, unslinging my camera, began to watch. I caught sight of what I took to be the male, and I could also hear the female replying to his call at no great distance. For some time I could make nothing out, and, concluding 1 might be too near the nest, | walked over to where I could see the male. He met me, and I commenced a systematic search. I was not long in finding a small, neat, domed nest, low down in a salt-bush, the male meanwhile perching close at hand and continually calling to the female, who, however, did not venture near. The nest contained three eggs. But I did not quite like the look of things. .Wadurus leucopierus was about, and the nest was suspiciously like that of a M@a/urus—very well woven and rather elongated. 1 walked away and sat down to watch, hoping the female would go on. After a quarter of an hour I got tired of this. Incubation had not commenced, so I determined to photograph the nest and return again to settle its identity. As soon as I set up the camera the male came back and watched the proceedings, but the female kept persistently away. It appeared to me she was most often calling at a point behind me and some five chains away. I made up my mind that if the present nest proved to belong to a MWalurus leucopterus her own home would be somewhere in that direction. I returned to the spot next day, and, quietly walking up to he Bod WuttLock, On the East Murchison. 201 1910 the nest in the salt-bush, flushed a female J/. /eucofterus from the eggs. This was disappointing, though no more than | expected. The Acanthiza did not put in an appearance at all. I walked over to the spot I suspected, and, after a few minutes’ search, found a second nest, not in the salt-bush, but cleverly interwoven and sheltered by the topmost spray of a clump of samphire. This nest was more globular, too, and more loosely woven, and ina circular fashion. It was the image of my Lake Austin nest, now on exhibition in the Perth Museum. To my delight this nest contained three eggs. The male and female were skulking near, but would not come up to the nest. Carefully packing the eggs, I went home quite satisfied as to their identity. They were the first authentic eggs ever taken of Acanthiza tenuirostris. They differed from typical eggs of Malurus leucopterus, the markings being more sparse and fainter. In size, too, they were slightly smaller, but the structure of the nest was totally different, and agreed with the nest I eventually found of the first pair except that the latter had a lining of rabbit fur whilst the present nest had a lining of white or buffish vegetable down of the plant known as Decrastyles fulva. RED-THROAT (Pyrrholemus (Sericornis) brunnea).—Generally distributed throughout the district. It breeds early. The young were on the wing second week in August. I obtained two typical clutches of eggs. These nests remained empty so long that I quite gave them up, thinking they had been robbed by the blacks. One was in a salt-bush, the other in tea-tree scrub. This species is a splendid mimic, and reproduces the songs of all the surrounding birds. In passing, it may be worth recording that on one occasion I took eggs from a nest built in the burrow of a lizard and quite under ground. A blackfellow in front of me walked right over the nest, flushing the female in so doing. BANDED WREN (Ma/lurus splendens ).*—Rare and very local. Though | heard of blue birds at Lake Way, which came round one’s camp, I hardly expected them to be of this species. It was one of the surprises of my trip. I only met with two parties near Wiluna, and another near Milly Pool. WHITE-WINGED WREN (Malurus leucopterus).*—The commonest Wren ofthe district. I found seven or eight nests. Several contained four eggs, and in three instances the nest contained an egg of the Narrow-billed Bronze- Cuckoo. Several clutches were very boldly marked, the blotches inclining to hazel-brown rather than rufous-brown. PURPLE-BACKED WREN (Walurus assimilis).—Sparingly distributed throughout the district. I found one nest, but it must have been disturbed, for when I visited it later it was quite abandoned. RUFOUS-CROWNED EMU-WREN (Sé¢pzturus ruficeps).—Rare, and confined to the big spinifex plain west of Bore Well. In its habits this rare Emu- Wren differs but little from the commoner species in the south-west. It is a terrible skulker, and a very feeble flier, but hops along the sand between the tufts of spinifex at a remarkable speed. Though it is such a skulker it is notreally ashy bird. The difficulty is to find it. But when once found it is easy, by imitating its feeble notes, or the cry of a wounded bird, to make it show itself. By the latter method I brought a male right up to my feet. Despite much labour, I failed to get eggs ; but I found a very small nest of the previous year—smaller than that of /. /eucofterus—and also differently woven. This was placed in stunted spinifex, and was woven of soft dry grasses, bleached nearly to whiteness. The lining appeared to have been white or buff-coloured vegetable down. On returning home I tramped through all this spinifex, a distance of 12 miles, in the forlorn hope of finding alate nest. As luck would have it I walked right into the midst of a family party. I secured the male and two of the young. The former had only two tail feathers. The young are much less rufous than the adult, being of a dull snuff-colour, with the same markings as the female. * See remarks on ‘‘ Western Australian Birds,” by A. J. Campbell, part 3, p. 165. 2O? WuitLock, On the East Murchison. gre LARGE-TAILED GRASS-WREN (Amytornis gigantura, Milligan).—This was another Lake Austin friend I hoped to meet with at Lake Way. I was not disappointed. It is a most difficult bird to find, especially if the weather be windy or wet and cold. As at Lake Austin, it was strictly confined to the salt-bush near the lake. This family of birds is said to favour rocky or stony places. It may be true of other members, but I never saw the present species in any such country. Though there were outcrops of rocks near two of its haunts at Lake Austin, and again a huge outcropping quartz reef at Lake Way, I never saw an individual amongst the d@ébrzs surround- ing these formations. The species of salt-bush it prefers grows to a height of about 3 feet. The leaf is very small and sappy, and at fruiting season it has a small bright red berry, which is not unpleasant to the taste. When bruised the leaves have a scent like common garden sage. These bushes always grow singly, and generally on rich alluvial flats, but also on low sand-hills. I can give no hints as to how to find this bird. One may pay visit after visit and spend hours in its haunts without seeing more than its tracks. Another day one may walk right up to the bush it is skulking under, but it does not follow that the Amyzornzs will break cover. If it has a song it seldom utters it. The call note is faint and very high-pitched, but both at Lake Austin and Lake Way I heard individuals utter a sound precisely like - the mew of acat. The female is much more wary than the male, and one seldom gets more than a glimpse of her as she bounds from bush to bush. On a single occasion, the weather being calm and genial, I had the exceptional opportunity of seeing three of these Grass-Wrens at the same moment. I knew a party was about, and at the expenditure of some patience and artifice I enticed them around me. One hopped to the top of a salt-bush, another came out in the open. and even began pecking about whilst a third took a series of peeps at me from behind another bush. From the large size of their tails I judged all these to be males. The male, too, shows no rufous patches at the side of the breast. I was very anxious to secure the nest and eggs of this little-known Grass- Wren. It was only after much labour I was successful. Knowing that a party inhabited a certain tract of salt-bush at the foot of some sand-hills, I resolved to “stick to my covey” and concentrate my efforts on this bit of country alone. In addition to the salt-bush there were many clumps of spinifex on the sand-hills, and I resolved to carefully search them too. I tried all sorts of methods. Wherever I saw the birds about, there I examined every salt-bush on hands and knees, and many a disappointment I got—dark-looking domed nests in the centre of the bush either proving to be 7eniopygia nests or old nests of Pyrrholemus brunnea. It was not till 23rd August that I had any luck. I had been through nearly all the salt-bush, and had been beating the clumps of spinifex with a stick, when I came to a few dense salt-bushes near the belt of tea-tree and other scrub bordering the big lagoon at Lake Violet. I parted with my hands all salt-bushes that the light did not penetrate through, and had almost come to the last one when in the centre of a fairly large bush I found a perfect cup-shaped nest containing three remarkable and beautiful eggs. I was puzzled. I was expecting a domed nest with the entrance at the side. Here was a substantial cup-shaped nest of dried grasses and green shoots of salt-bush, with very thick walls and a fairly deep cup, lined with finer grasses, vegetable down, and even a little fur. The shape of this nest is remarkable when compared with that of its near ally, A. s¢rzatus. The eggs, too, were unfamiliar. I listened to the song or call note of every bird around me. Xerophila was there, also Avtamus venustus, and the eggs did resemble certain varieties of the latter, but they were much too large, and the nest was totally unlike a Wood-Swallow’s. I listened again. Then I heard the faint, high-pitched alarm note of Amytornis etgantura. The problem was solved, but I had to make identity sure. I sat down within ¥ a . Z TuE Emu, Vol. 1X. PLATE XxX. Nest of Large-tailed Grass-Wren (Amytornis gigantura). FROM A PHOTO BY F. L. WHITLOCK, Vol. IX. WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. 203 Ig10 sight of the bush containing the nest and its immediate surroundings, and waited till I was weary. I resolved to go away and return in an houtr’s time, and as the ground was sandy I would try and steal silently up to the bush, and, if possible, surprise the sitting bird, and procure it before it could slip away. I carried out this plan, and, very cautiously approaching the bush, I peeped into the nest. There was a veritable Amyfornis gigantura sitting on the eggs! It flushed with a cry of alarm, but I secured it. It wasa male. I waited in vain for the female, as I was most anxious to secure a specimen—there being only two in existence. Both are in the Perth Museum—one the type, described by Mr. A. W. Milligan, and secured by Mr. J. T. Tunney, near Mt. Magnet, Murchison goldfield, and another collected by myself at Lake Austin. I subsequently photographed the nest and eggs zm sifu, and also the surrounding haunts. (See illustration.) This was the only nest of this rare bird I found. The nest and eggs are new to science, and have been recently described in 7he Emu (p. 136). I may note that some time afterwards I visited the same spot again, and heard notes resembling those of Amytornzs striatus, which I have described in another place as resembling the syllables “ Ta-ti-tu.” Probably they were uttered by a male of the present species. Much uncertainty seems to prevail about the identity of this and two other closely allied species. There seems a tendency on the part of certain ornithologists to refer both Avwzyfornzs textilis and A. gigantura to one species. Ina very interesting letter to Mr. H. L. White, Mr. G. A. Keartland, who accompanied the Calvert Expedition, refers to two species of Amytornis observed in the country at and around Lake Way. One he identifies as A. sévzatus, and in that I think he is perfectly correct. But his reference to a second species, haunting and observed running about amongst the samphires at Lake Way, has caused me some perplexity. This latter species he refers to A. ¢extil’s, despite the fact that Gould described A. macrurus asa larger and more robust form of the latter, and, moreover, its Western representative. I can hardly credit the statement that sucha secretive bird as A. gigantura can have been observed amongst the samphires at Lake Way. In my experience it does not frequent such vegetation, but I saw Calamanthus campestris, which has a carriage very much like an Amzytornts, in the samphires every time I walked through them. This latter bird has, however, a much shorter tail. As my fore- going notes will illustrate, the difficulty I had in finding the bird alone should be apparent. Mr. Milligan, in describing the types, gives com- parative measurements of five species of this genus (Vzc¢. at., xviii., No. 2, June, Igor), and it will be seen that the dimensions of 4. gigantura altogether exceed those of A. ¢extié/7s, and even Gould’s measurements of A. macrurus. Mr. C. G. Gibson, in his article on the “ Birds Observed between Kalgoorlie and Eucla” (£722, vol. ix., p. 73) groups A. macrurus with A. gigantura. There is no reason for this, but until a large series of both supposed species have been collected from various localities in this State, and carefully compared, the question must remain an open one, and it may be just as well to let the two species (?) stand as at present. In any case, the Western birds should not, with our present knowledge, be referred to the smaller and less robust A. ¢extz/is. I only hope my observations on the habits of the Lake Way birds, with my photographs of the nest zz sf and breeding haunts, will aid in the final settlement of this question.* * Since writing my remarks on Amytornis gigantura | have seen The Victorian Naturalist for February, 1910. In this journal is an account of the finding by Mr. C. G. Gibson of the nest and eggs of Amytornis macrurus. The account is accom- panied by a description of the nest and eggs by Mr. A. J. North, and is illustrated by Mr. Gibson’s photograph of the nest 27 sztw. Nothing could have been more opportune. A distinct superstructure in the form of a dome over the nest is observ- able in the photograph of the nest of A. macrurus. As my notes emphasize, the latter feature is quite absent from the Lake Way nest of A. gzgantura. 204 WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. oat aa I must just add that, on reading further Mr. Keartland’s letter, he refers to A. striatus as being the rarer of the two local Grass-Wrens near Lake Way. My experience is precisely the opposite. I only got, and that with much difficulty, three specimens of A. e¢gantura. Had I been so desirous, or had it been advisable to do so, I could readily have obtained thirty or forty specimens of 4. stv/a/us in the spinifex plain near Bore Well. He further states that in the samphires or salt-bush A. textilis may be seen hopping about and singing. a i 8 Vol. IX. ate WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. 213 little known species. My only encouragement was in the fact that my friend Mr. J. T. Tunney had seen a specimen about 50 miles to the north-west of Lake Way some twelve years ago. His further informa- tion that it was the only one he saw during his travels on the Murchison was not too cheering, but I resolved to leave no stone unturned in my endeavours to get the nest and eggs. One result of Mr. Sid. W. Jackson’s successful trip to tropical Queensland after the eggs of the Tooth-billed Bower-Bird was to make the nest and eggs of the present species the only remaining blank in the series of Bower- Birds’ eggs in Mr. H. L. White’s great collection. To fill this blank was a great incentive in itself. Inquiries (accompanied by sketches of the play-ground) of local sportsmen resulted in nothing but discouragement. No one had seen such structures or had encountered such a bird. One of the more intelligent blackfellows, however, to whom I showed a sketch of a play-ground, looked thoughtfully at it for a time, and then laconically uttered the words “Milly Pool.’ The latter locality had been described to meas ‘‘a creek in the hills.”” This was very misleading, and in driving out we actually passed by the pool, under the impression it was just a casual sheet of water due to the exceptional rains. However, it is an ill wind that blows nobody any good, for by over-shooting the mark I was led to other things. Ina tract of York gums near a shallow clay-pan I thought I saw an unfamiliar-looking Ptilotis, and I resolved to return to the spot and investigate further. Fortunately we overtook some stockmen, who told us we had passed by Milly Pool, and from their description we recognized in the clay- coloured sheet of water on the flat some seven miles behind us our real destination. There was nothing for it but to return. On arrival, after unloading my gear, Isoon had my tent up, under two small, shady casuarinas, and next day was hard at work. I turned south. A mile from my tent, and a quarter of a mile from the extremity of the lower sheet of water, was a dense thicket of acacias. The latter were growing on the verge of open country, grassed for the most part, but with patches of salt-bush and lines of small flooded gums. Still further south thick scrub of vigorous growth occurred, chiefly of the mulga family, but with occasional gums and some exceptionally fine caSuarinas and beef-wood trees, with a host of smaller bushes whose names I am unacquainted with. Half a mile to the west was the foot of a gently rising elevation, whose summit perhaps may have been 200 feet above the surrounding plain. As I walked alongside the acacia thicket admiring the vivacity of the numerous Carter Honey-eaters I caught sight of a thick-set bird perched in a large hakea bush. It was craning its neck, and appeared to be very curious as to my presence. I approached cautiously until I was within 6 feet of the bird, which, except for moving its head from side to side to get a better view of me, did not change its position. It occasionally gave vent toa harsh, disagreeable sound, like a very old man clearing his throat. I could only see its lower parts distinctly, so I imitated as well as I could the sounds it was making. This had the desired effect. It hopped lower down, and I could clearly see the spotted upper parts and silvery feathers of the head. There was no lilac visible on the nape, and the plumage had a thin, immature look about it. Also the angle of the gape was yellow. I had no gun with me, and was very uncertain what to do. There was not a sign of another bird like it to be seen. After watching it, and studying the plumage very Emu 214 WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. Sst akon carefully, I felt convinced it was immature. I resolved to go back to the camp for my gun. I returned in half an hour’s time, only to find the bird gone. I searched carefully around, and after a time spied it perched on a dead eucalypt, from which it dived down into the acacia scrub. Icould see it still, and fired, knocking it over. It was a veritable Bower-Bird, but unmistakably in thin, immature plumage. I was packing it up when I heard a rustling, accompanied by a harsh note, in the acacias overhead. There, within a few feet of me, was a similar bird! I replied to the note, and to my great astonishment a third bird put in its appearance. The last arrival looked older. Its plumage was deeper in tone and had a distinct gloss. It presently hopped further into the scrub, and I crawled after it until I came toa sort of play-ground. There was no inverted arch, but a large number of small sticks had been carried to a clear space, with a feather or two and a few sandal-wood nuts. My bird had disappeared, but I called to it, and immediately got a reply. I repeated the sound, and the bird presently returned and hopped down to the play-ground. I continued to call, and to my great surprise got replies, accompanied by rustlings, from other parts of the thicket. The sounds got nearer, and presently I found myself the central object of interest to no less than seven Yellow-spotted Bower-Birds. This was very exciting, and I found it rather difficult to sit still. I was crouched down in the midst of the acacias, and, with the exception of one bird, all were in the branches overhead. The performance then commenced. The bird on the ground was presently joined by two others, which perched on very low branches near at hand. He then puffed out his feathers, showing the beautiful pink (not lilac) tract of plumage on his neck to great advantage. With various harsh cries he advanced into the centre of the cleared space and made a vigorous attack on some long, red- looking object. He advanced and backed, hopped from side to side, pecked vigorously, jumped into the air, and with much apparent ferocity made rushes at one of his immediate audience. I took this to be his mate. Now and again she uttered a short, harsh cry, but otherwise seemed to regard the demostrations made by the male as very matter-of-fact and hardly worthy of notice. I watched the performance at close quarters for over an hour, the remaining birds in the meantime studying me. They squatted rather than yerched on the branches, the tarsus being quite invisible. Occasionally one or other uttered a harsh cry, or dodged a buffet from a passing Carter Honey-eater, otherwise their attitude was one of strained curiosity— their necks craned in my direction and their eyes staring. The matinee being over, the male, followed by his mate, hopped up to the top of the acacias and flew off. I scrambled out and followed as best I could, but soon lost sight of both in the thick scrub. Occasionally I could hear their harsh notes, but gradually I lost sound of them too. So I turned back tocamp. I had found my birds. The problem to be solved was—When and where would they breed ? I skinned and dissected the bird I had shot. It was a young female, the ovules being extremely small. I was not encouraged when I reflected she might easily have been one of a brood hatched during the summer rains. In a year like 1909, when these rains had been so unusually copious, the breeding of many species of birds gets out of its ordinary routine, making the solution of such a problem as I had before me all the more uncertain. Taking a line from Mr. Sid. W. Jackson’s experiences in MU, Vol. 1X. 4 THE | PLATE XXIV, ‘Joog ATTN ‘31Inq sp11g “MOOTLIHM “1 “Ad AB ‘OLOHd VY WOYS IIMOG 9y} s1eYM qnao9S jo duno ers WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. 215 1910 Queensland, I reflected that if the adults in the present party did not intend to breed very shortly they would hardly have assembled at their play-ground and behaved in the manner they did. Also, with food so abundant, there would be nothing so very remarkable if a second brood was reared in the same year, though there might be an unusually long interval between the broods. Under the circumstances I did not expect to find eggs for seven or eight weeks, and as the sequel will show this estimate was not far out. Next morning I was down at the acacias again. I was very early. Not a Bower-Bird was to be seen or heard. I returned again in the afternoon. The performance was on, the “stage manager’’ being in great form, and the audience numbering five. The red object was again vigorously attacked, shaken, and well scolded. It proved to be a large dead and dried-up centipede. At the conclusion the whole party flew off as before into the tract of thicker scrub. On the following day I determined to make a thorough search in the immediate neighbourhood for any signs of nesting, past or present. In a couple of casuarinas, less than half a mile away, were two nests very much like those of the Tooth-billed Bower-Bird depicted in Mr. Sid. W. Jackson’s photographs. They were both built of small, dead twigs, with a lining, if it could be called such, of needles from the casuarina tree. Both had an unoccupied look about them, though otherwise in good preservation. For the size of the bird they appeared small, but there was no other surrounding species to which they could belong. They were altogether too unsubstantial for old nests of Cracticus leucopterus. I felt sure they were last season’s nests of the local Bower-Bird. However fascinating and exciting all this was, there was other work to do, and I determined to clear up the mystery respecting the Pfz/otis I had seen when I drove out. On 21st September I walked out to the spot, distant some seven miles, and hunted around. I could see no Péilotis other than P. cartert, so concluded I was mistaken. It was a hot day, so I turned towards a neighbouring clay-pan which contained some very uninviting clay- coloured water. On my way I passed several large mulgas, and a large, spreading casuarina with the lower branches trailing on the ground. A thick-set bird flew out with a harsh cry, which resembled that of a Bower-Bird. I looked under the tree, and there was a perfect play-ground, with an inverted archway, filled with white flakes of limestone, mulga beans, sandal-wood nuts, and a few green leaves. I hid myself close at hand and commenced calling. I soon had the male back, and presently two or three more birds, but, owing to the surrounding cover being much less dense than at the acacia thicket, this party was much more shy, Their behaviour, however, was just the same, but if I made any movement, the performance ceased at once. My luck was evidently in, and I resolved to secure nest and eggs of one or both parties of these Bower-Birds, even if I had to wait till the next summer rains. I did not then take into account one contingency which happened in connection with this second party. To write out all my notes in full on these interesting birds would occupy too much space, so I propose to give a summary of my observations, extending over six weeks’ close contact with them. I eventually found a third play-ground, about three-quarters of a mile to the south of the acacia scrub. At this play-ground I never saw more than two birds; It was situated, as before, under a large, 216 WuitLock, On the East Murchison. Reel spreading tree, with the branches trailing on the ground. The tree was a mulga in this instance. The country was more open, and there was no convenient cover near enough to watch this party, which I feel sure was quite distinct from that at the acacias. The archway and surroundings were very perfect, and looked newer, and rather less massive, than those at the clay-pan. In addition to the flat flakes of limestone, pieces of bone had been here added to the collection. Old sandal-wood nuts were numerous on the outside of the run, and the ereen ones were evidently thrown out from the inverted arch when they became discoloured. At the clay-pan I managed by crawling under the big casuarina to photograph the bower, with the male and female perched close at hand, using the camera with the legs un- extended. The subject was an awkward one from a pictorial point of view, as I could only get a view of the archway by focussing between two thick trunks. I feared to go to the other side of the tree, and haul away, even pyo tem., the obstructing branches. The birds must not be disturbed at any cost, a photograph being a secondary con- sideration to the nest and eggs. The dimensions of this playground were 7 feet in length by 5 feet in width. The foundation was a mass of innumerable twigs of about one-eighth to a quarter of an inch in diameter and about 9 itches in length on the average. This raised the foundation of the inverted arch some 6 or 8 inches above the eround. The walls of the latter measured 18 inches to the tip of the highest twig, but the general height was an inch or two less. The average thickness of the walls was about 6 inches, and the length of the run 25 inches. In the run were thirteen flakes of limestone of about a square inch in size, also about a dozen small green seed-pods, - with a few mulga beans. There were no feathers or shells. On 14th October I visited the clay-pan again, and had a big try for the nest or signs of building. I came across a pair of the birds a short distance away. One of the pair flew from a large mulga. I examined this bush carefully. There was unmistakably the commencement of a nest in the upper branches. I watched for some time, and both birds, came back again. One fact caused me some uneasiness at this visit— the water in the clay-pan had nearly disappeared, and I knew of no other supply within several miles distance. The third play-ground was very similar to the one described in the foregoing, but it appeared to be newer, and the walls were less massive. The twigs used in the construction of the walls were long and very supple. Many showed a diagonal cut, and had no doubt been nipped off by the beak of the bird. _The source of supply was a low, dense bush, which appeared to be all twigs and no leaves ; the wood is very elastic, like a willow, and in the green state fairly soft. Close at hand, by the wreck of another large mulga tree, were the remains of an old play-ground, but the inverted arch had quite disappeared. All that remained was the mass of small twigs comprising the foundation. I constantly visited this play-ground, also the haunt at the acacias, sometimes finding no birds present, but usually some were near at hand. In my search for nests I occasionally came across Bower-Birds, and soon got to recognize them by their flight, which is direct, very undulatory, and never at any height above the scrub. When they seek cover they appear to pitch headlong down—to make a dive, in fact. On the wing they have the outline of an Oveoica (Bell-Bird), but their flight is much quieter, and with no whirring of wings whatever. Their tail looks much shorter in flight than that of a Shrike-Thrush, and _ their THE EMu, Vol. LX. PLATE XXV. Nesting-Tree of Yellow-spotted Bower-Bird (Chlamydodera guttata). BY F. L. WHITLOCK. FROM A PHOTO. MaleTs. WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison: 217 1910 appearance is darker than that of either of the foregoing species. The most usual notes heard resemble the ordinary harsh sounds produced by the White-browed Babbler, and in calling up Bower- Birds I have often brought Babblers in their place. But the male Bower-Bird, and also, I think, the female, is a great mimic, and reproduces to perfection the notes of many surrounding birds. All the same, he seems to have a preference for harsh sounds, such as the alarm notes of the local Shrike-Thrush, Carter Honey-eater, White-browed Babbler, and the tremulous cries of young Hawks clamouring for food. I have heard a male imitate the notes of Cracticus leucopterus to perfection, and, again, a female gave a perfect rendering of those of Cracticus picatus. Certain other notes of the male were an exact imitation of the sound produced by a rabbit running over a heap of dried twigs. This was an unmistakable piece of mimicry, as the whole acacia thicket was growing on the top of a big rabbit-earth. Other sounds were like the mewing of a cat, and may have been acquired from the KRed-breasted Babbler, which was breeding near at hand. Towards the end of October the attendance at the acacia play- ground, and also at the play-ground under the mulga to the south, became less constant. I threw out all the green sandal-wood nuts from the archway at the latter, and they were not replaced. The plot was thickening, and my anxiety to find the nest grew intense. Near this latter play-ground was a tract of open grassy country with a few beef-woods and isolated gums. It was in the shape of a bay, and was merely an extension of a much larger area of plain away to the east. On the north side of this bay was a _ thicket of fairly large mulga bushes, with a few casuarinas and gums. The eastern extremity of this scrub formed a narrow projection into the bay of open country. In a group of very small casuarinas I found two interesting-looking nests. One of these I decided was old; the other bore a close resemblance to the nest of the Tooth-billed Bower- Bird photographed by Mr. Sid. W. Jackson. I was watching this nest, and I always mentally referred toit as Jackson’s nest. There was one feature about it I did not quite like—a small bunch of casuarina needles was suspended outside the nest and looked as though it had been removed from the lining. The play-ground was about 500 yards to the west of this nest. On 28th October I was passing the neigh- bourhood of this nest after a long search in a large belt of scrub to the south and on the other side of the bay, and thought I would have a look. I walked to the foot of the tree. Things appeared quite unchanged, and I did not climb up. I continued my walk, but bad hardly got clear of the casuarinas when I caught sight of a Bower-Bird in a neighbouring bush. I came to a sudden halt and watched. Presently it began to preen its feathers. This was interesting, and I began to feel a pleasurable excitement. After watching for five minutes, the bird wheeled round and flew off in the opposite direction to where the nest lay. I followed as quickly as I could, and had not gone far before a dark, thick-set bird flashed past me going towards the nest. I made a mental note of the fact, and commenced a close search in all the neighbouring bushes. All in vain. However, I was not surprised, having hunted that scrub more than once. I returned again to the foot of the tree containing Jackson’s nest. There was no sign of any bird whatever. For all that I decided to climb up. Hardly had I set foot on the lowest branch before, with a great Emu ist April 218 WuitLock, On the East Murchison. hissing, spitting, and fluttering of wings, at me dashed a Bower-Bird. She was violently agitated, and almost brushed my face with her wings, uttering at the same time loud, clear notes, imitations of the cry of the Black-throated Butcher-Bird. I was soon up to the nest, which was barely 15 feet from the ground. I cautiously felt inside. There were two eggs. I raised one into view ; it was a typical Bower- Bird’s egg. Down I went for cloth cap and wadding, and soon had the satisfaction of gazing on two perfect specimens of these rare and little-known eggs. They were similar to eggs of C. maculata, but hardly so glossy—the ground colour a delicate French grey or greenish- grey. The markings were of various shades of brown. The lighter brown markings were in the form of continuous lines, wound in and out, in a more or less circular manner, around the wider part of the shell. The darker markings were in the form of irregular blotches of colour, but they are hardly so bright and pronounced as in typical eges of C. maculata. In shape this pair may be described as slightly elongated ovals, with no very great distinction between either end. The eggs were quite fresh. It will be convenient to give the measure- ments here :—Specimen a, 1.48 x 1.07 inches; 6, 1.52 x 1.05 inches. The nest was near the top of the casuarina tree, and was outwardly an irregular-shaped structure of dried and black twigs. The cup was fairly well defined, but rather shallow. It had a lining of fine twigs, with a few casuarina needles. The lining was sufficiently substantial to hide the contents of the nest from below. After I had robbed the nest the parent bird quietened down and made no further hostile demonstration towards me. As I packed the eggs she remained sitting on a neighbouring branch. There was a point to be cleared up concerning the plumage of the female. In Hall's ‘“‘ Key ’’—compiled largely from the British Museum “Catalogue of Birds’’—the female of C. maculata is said to have no lilac band, and as nothing is said to the contrary in referring to the female of C. guttata, we may assume, too, that she in turn was thought to possess no lilac band. Now, during my close watching of the party of seven at the acacia thicket I became aware that three of the performers possessed this so-called lilac band. Two of them, however, were much less strongly marked in this respect than the adult male I called the stage manager. From his behaviour towards one of these individuals I felt sure the latter was a female. Now was the opportunity to prove my theory. Though very loth to do it, I shot this bird. I had to take into consideration the scepticism too often meted out to the field naturalist when his observations are unsupported by tangible evidence. On dissection, my suspicions proved to be correct—she was a fully adult female. Whilst on this subject, let me repeat that the colour of this nuchal band is not lilac, but in these East Murchison birds of a vivid pink, with just a suspicion of silvery- lilac when viewed in certain lights. In the female it is much smaller than in the male, and rather difficult to detect when the bird is in repose. The same is the case with the male, the band in both sexes then appearing as a narrow longitudinal stripe, rather more conspicuous in the male than in the female. Immature birds possess no trace of this colouration whatever ; but a male, probably in his second year and non-breeding, showed as much colour as an adult female. The plumage of the adult male in my birds is black on the upper parts, with a slight velvety gloss. The spots, which are most numerous near the hind neck but largest on the greater coverts, vary from fawn- THE Emu, Vol. LX. PEATE XXVIE "NOSHOVP ‘M ‘S AB “OLOHd V WOXS ‘(npyns vaapophunjyy) prd-1emog poezjods-moyjax Jo ssoq pure son wv. . Ve Sis L.A Ny ae = R&S ss et - » ae eR Sree lle Vel. eal WHITLOCK, On the East Murchison. 219 1G10 colour to cream. The feathers of the forehead and crown are very small and dense, and the spots small and very numerous and of a light hazel-brown colour, but half-hidden in a wash of silvery tint, which somewhat reminds me of burnished tea-lead. On the lower margin of the pink nuchal patch is an arrow-shaped mark of black. This, though small, is very conspicuous when the male is displaying before the female. The under parts agree with previous descriptions. Beak black, the upper mandible being rather conspicuously longer than the lower. The angle of the gape, in both adults and young, yellow ; iris deep brown; legs and feet yellowish-green (this colour fades altogether in the skin). Much elated with my prizes, I returned to camp, blew my eggs, and skinned and dissected the female. Whilst thus engaged two Bower-Birds actually perched in the casuarinas overhead. I then returned with the camera, photographing the nest in situ, and also the patch of scrub containing the nesting-tree. I had yet to deal with the party at the clay-pan. On ist November I camped at an intervening well, the weather being very hot and dry. I was destined to meet with a great disappointment with this party. As I feared, the birds had deserted the locality. The water in the clay-pan had quite evaporated, evidently soon after my last visit. The nest I had based my hopes upon had progressed no further. Ispent the greater part of the day hunting the surrounding scrubs, and I think I did the work thoroughly, but without success. The only Bower-Bird I saw was an adult male at the play-ground. My work was now nearly finished. All small birds except T@niopygia had finished breeding, and I began to think seriously of home. I left Milly Pool for Wiluna a few days later. Examination of Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Some Australian Birds. By J. BURTON CLELAND, M.D., Ch.M., Principal Assistant Microbiologist, Government Bureau of Microbiology, Sydney, N.S.W. THE following results of the examination of the stomach contents of 57 birds may prove of interest. They are from specimens collected for scientific purposes by myself in 1909. In addition to an investigation of the food supply of birds, the skins were also, of course, preserved, the intestines and tissues were searched for parasitic worms, and blood-films made and examined for protozoa, such as Halterzdium. A summary of the interesting discoveries in the latter two directions it is hoped will be available shortly. The utmost possible scientific use has, I believe, been made of every specimen of bird thus obtained. I desire especially to thank W. W. Froggatt, Esq., F.L.S.; and J. H. Maiden, Esq., F.L.S., whose results so materially enhance the value of this paper, for their kindly assistance and co- operation. M., followed by a numeral, indicates the number of the bird 220 CLELAND, Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Birds. cokes in Mathews’ “ Handlist of the Birds of Australasia,” published as a supplement to Zhe Emu, vol. vii., 1907-8. H., followed by a numeral, indicates the number of the bird in Robert Hall’s “A Key to the Birds of Australia and Tasmania” (Ist edition). The uninitialled results are those obtained by myself while sort- ing the stomach contents for identification by an entomologist or botanist. The initials “W.W.F.” indicate that the following memorandum is the result of the examination of the insect remains by Walter W. Froggatt, Esq., F.L.S., Government Entomologist, New South Wales. Similarily, the initials “J.H.M.” indicate the botanical results of an examination by J. H. Maiden, Esq., F.L.S., Government Botanist, New South Wales. The date when shot is followed by the locality. When more than one specimen of a species has been examined, these are denoted by small italic letters. FAMILY—CHARADRIIDA. AEGIALITIS RUFICAPILLA (M. 157, H. 614), (Red-capped Dottrel). September, 1900, Perth. Fragments of insects; a small beetle. Some other animal fragments. (W.W.F.) Chiefly beetle remains. Anal appendages of some beetle larve. A small weevil. FAMILY—CACATUID. PSEPHOTUS HAMATORRHOUS (M. 354, H. 517), (Crimson- bellied Parrakeet). 5th October, 1909, Moree. Many seeds—(qa) small, yellow; (0) larger, orange; (c) long, narrow, whitish. Fragments of stamens (?). Fragments of charcoal (?), some floating. PSEPHOTUS HA:MATONOTUS. (M. 361, H. 524), (Red-backed Parrakeet). (2) 13th July, 1909, Orange, N.S.W. Crop shows a number of small yellow seeds. Some fragments of white seeds. Some very small pieces of charcoal. (J.H.M.) The seeds were not identifiable. (4) 13th July, 1909, Orange, N.S.W. Crop distended with small purple seeds and slightly larger oval white ones (? both grasses). (J.H.M.) The seeds were not identifiable. FAMILY—CUCULIDA. CHALCOCOCG6YX PLAGOSUS (M. 412, H. 462), (Bronze-Cuckoo). September, 1909, Perth. er | CLELAND, Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Birds. Z2T Stomach lined by black hairs, mostly parailel to each other. Microscopically these have thorn-like processes projecting from the sides (? hairs of caterpillar). Rest of contents black and granular (fragments of hairs). Three portions of a large insect (? caterpillar). A small piece of white quartz. Miscroscopically an oval egg and a number of curved brownish bodies of regular shape. (W.W.F.) These are chiefly the remains of “woolly bear ” caterpillars, as the heads are also on the bundles of hairs and skin. The caterpillars are probably the larva of a Darela. FAMILY—MUSCICAPID/. MICRCECA FASCINANS (M. 433, H. 86), (Brown Flycatcher). 1oth April, 1909, Sydney. An ant, ladybird, beetle case, and remains of other insects. PETRECA ROSEA (M. 443, H. 94), (Rose-breasted Robin). 11th June, 1909, Hawkesbury River. Fragments of small beetles and other insects ; an ant. (W.W.F.) Several ants ; small ground-beetles, amongst them the elytra of aclerid. RHIPIDURA TRICOLOR (M. 487, H. 139), Black-and-White Fantail. (a) 7th June, 1909, Sydney. Many fragments of insect wings, elytra, &c. (W.W.F.) Remains of small flies (Diptera). (4) 1oth April, Sydney. Beetle cases in stomach. FAMILY—TIMELIID. PSOPHODES CREPITANS (M. 526, H. 223), (Coachwhip-Bird). 17th April, 1909, Bulli, N.S.W. (W.W.F.) Remains of beetles of genus Oxthophagus (family Scarabeidz). Probably captured by the birds about fresh cow- dung, on which the beetles feed. FAMILY—TURDID&. OREOCICHLA LUNULATA (M. 544, H. 160), (Ground-Thrush). 17th April, 1909, Bulli, N.S.W. (W.W.F.) Remains of some ground-living beetle. Species cannot be determined. FAMILY—SYLVIID&. ORIGMA RUBRICATA (M. 557, H. 185), (Rock-Warbler), (a) 11th June, 1909, Hawkesbury River. A number of small seeds and parts of seeds of several kinds. A little sand. (J-H.M.) Seeds of Chenopodiacee, perhaps species of Chenopodium or Atriplex. 222 CLELAND, Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Birds. [ meen (6) 11th June, 1999, Hawkesbury River. Several brownish purse-shaped seeds, and some smaller white ones. No insect remains. ACANTHIZA REGULOIDES (M. 575, H. 197), (Buff-rumped Tit). 1oth April, 1909, Sydney. Beetle cases, &c. MALURUS CYANOCHLAMYS (M. 593, H. 117), (Silvery Blue Wren. (a) 13th July, 1909, Orange, N.S.W. Numerous elytra of small beetles (?). (W.W.F.) Remains of ants (/ctatomma metallicum) ; elytra of small chrysomelid beetles. (6) 13th July, 1909, Orange, N.S.W. Numerous fragments of small beetles (?). (W.W.F.) Remains of small beetles and ants. MALURUS LAMBERTI (M. 602, H. 125), (Variegated Wren). 26th October, 1909, Hawkesbury River. Broken fragments of beetles. (W.W.F.) Remains of very small beetles. FAMILY—PRIONOPID~. COLLYRIOCICHLA HARMONICA (M. 636, H. 68), (Grey Shrike- Thrush). (a) 7th June, 1900, Sydney. Elytra, &c., of several insects. (W.W.F.) Chrysomelid beetles ; remains of grasshopper. (6) 26th October, 1909, Hawkesbury River. A large green-with-gold-spots grub, 1} inches long ; portion of a grasshopper (?); carapaces, legs, &c., of several large beetles ; several small pale blue eggs. (W.W.F.) Caterpillar of large hawk moth (Cequosza trian- gularis) ; banksia moth (Danima banksie); \ooper caterpillar ; beetles—E/ator, sp. Alzcula, sp.. and other undeterminable species ; remains of grasshopper or locust. GRALLINA PICATA (M. 646, H. 67), (Magpie-Lark). 7th June, 1909, Sydney. Some brown pieces of maize seed, two seeds of wheat; one small fly, several small beetles, almost complete; many fragments of insects. (W.W.F.) Fragments of wheat and maize; remains of beetles and small flies ; green-head ant. FAMILY—LANIID&. GYMNORHINA TIBICEN (M. Ce H. 243), (Black-backed Magpie). 21st May, 1909, Berry, N.S.W (W.W.F.) Wheat and plant remains ; several ground-beetles ; green-head ants (Zctatomma metallicum). Wee CLELAND, Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Birds. 223 1910 FALCUNCULUS FRONTATUS (M. 660, H. 256), (Yellow-bellied Shrike- Tit). 20th October, 1909, Tamworth. Many fragments of insects ; metallic elytra of beetles. (W.W.F.) Remains of lamellicorn beetles ; remains of chrysomelid beetles. PACHYCEPHALA PECTORALIS (M. 667, H. 265), (White-throated Thickhead). 13th June, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. Two larve of saw-flies ; remains of a large grasshopper (?). (W.W.F.) Chiefly saw-fly larve ; Perga, sp. (three speci- mens) ; Pterogophorus, sp. PACHYCEPHALA RUFIVENTRIS (M. 674, H. 271), (Rufous- breasted Thickhead). (a) 26th October, 1909, Hawkesbury River. Metallic-tinted fragments of beetles ; three hymenopterous (? dipterous) insects. (W.W.F.) Wing-case of Stzgiodera, sp. (Coleoptera) ; chryso- melid and ground beetles (Coleoptera) ; small frog-hopper (Homoptera). (6) 20th October, 1909, Tamworth. Many fragments of beetles ; a small fly or hymenopterous insect ; a bug (?); a pupa or grub (?). (W.W.F.) Beetle remains, chiefly small Heteromera found among foliage. Saw no grub or fly in this stomach. EOPSALTRIA AUSTRALIS (M. 683, H. 259), (Yellow-breasted Shrike-Robin). (a) 8th May, 1909, Sydney. An ant; a small beetle; some fragments of insects; 15 oval reddish seeds, a little smaller than wheat seeds. (W.W.F.) Chief food, green-head ants (Aclatomma metal- licum). (J.H.M.) The seeds are those of a Leucopogon, probably. They are certainly from an epacridaceous plant. (6) Sydney. (W.W.F.) Chiefly the remains of the green-head ant (#cta- tomma metallicum). FAMILY—ZOSTEROPID/. ZOSTEROPS GOULDI (M. 709, H. 303), (Green-backed Silver-eye). September, 1909, Perth. Some fragments of insects; part of a large grub (?); some fragments of green vegetable matter. (W.W.F.) Beetle remains ; various insect remains. 224 CLELAND, Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Birds. eae FAMILY—DICAID&. PARDALOTUS PUNCTATUS (M. 726, H. 379), (Spotted Pardalote, Diamond-Bird). (a) 11th June, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. Fragments of small beetles, &c. (W.W.F.) One thrips; beetle remains; floating scales, may be those of Aphis. (6) 11th June, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. Small fragments of insects. (W.W.F.) Undefinable. Oil and scales suggest that the bird had been feeding upon cut-worm moths (Agvotis, sp.) or Aphis. FAMILY—MELIPHAGID (HONEY-EATERS). MELITHREPTUS ATRICAPILLUS (M. 733, H. 307), (Lunulated Honey-eater). (a) 24th July, 1909, Sydney. Wings, elytra, antenne, &c., of insects. Many fragments. (W.W.F.) Thrips; remains of elytra of ground-beetles. (6) 24th July, Sydney. Wings, antennz, and many insect remains; a small fly. (W.W.F.) Some perfect specimens of thrips; Diptera, several species ; beetles. MELITHREPTUS BREVIROSTRIS (M. 741, H. 313), (Brown-headed Honey-eater). (a) 21st August, 1909, Sydney. A grub; fragments of insects’ bodies and wings. (W.W.F.) Larva of moth and remains of ground-beetles. (4) 8th May, 1909, Sydney. (W.W.F.) Jaws of spider ; remains of beetle larve. (c) 2nd April, 1909, Sydney. (W.W.F.) Larva of lamellicorn beetle. ACANTHORHYNCHUS TENUIROSTRIS (M. 752, H. 299}, (Spine- billed Honey-eater). 8th May, 1909, Sydney. (W.W.F.) Chiefly the remains of house-flies (JZusca domestica or Musca corvina). MELIPHAGA PHRYGIA (M. 764, H. 327), Warty-faced Honey- eater). 3rd April, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. Stomach full of elytra, legs, &c., of beetles. STIGMATOPS OCULARIS (M. 765, H. 320), (Brown Honey-eater). September, 1909, Perth. A few fragments of insects (wings, &c.) (W.W.F.) Chiefly remains of small Diptera; a few fragments of beetles ; small Homoptera. PTILOTIS CHRUSOTIS (M. 770, H. 329), (Yellow-eared Honey- eater), Vol. IX. gti CLELAND, Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Birds. 225 12th June, 1009, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. A fleshy purple fruit. (J.H.H.) Fruit of Phytolacca decandra, Linn. (red-ink plant). PTILOTIS ot aan (M. 775, H. 336), (Yellow-faced Honey- eater). (a) 24th April, 1909, Sydney, (W.W.F.) Remains of Diptera (one Culicide, Cw/ex, sp. ; one Muscidz). (6) 24th July, 1909, Sydney. A few fragments of insects. (W.W.F.) Remains of flies and beetles. (c) 3rd April, 1909, Sydney. Beetle bodies. PTILOTIS LEUCOTIS (M. 778, H. 339), (White-eared Honey- eater). (a) 12th June, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. A beetle case. Some remains of other insects. (W.W.F.) Chrysomelid beetle ; heads of small ants. (6) 26th October, 1909, Hawkesbury River. Fragments of beetles ; three eggs like ant-eggs. (W.W.F.) Fragments of beetles. PTILOTIS MELANOPS (M. 781, H. 342), (Yellow-tufted Honey- eater). 3rd April, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. Beetles. PTILOTIS PENICILLATA (M. 791, H. 346), (White-plumed Honey- eater). 13th July, 1909, Orange, N.S.W. Numerous fragments of insects. (W.W.F.) Insect remains. Nothing distinctive except frag- ments of beetles. PTILOTIS PLUMULA (M. 787, H. 349), (Yellow-fronted (Plumed) Honey-eater). September, 1909, Perth. Some fragments of insects and case of a small beetle. (W.W.F.) Also remains of spider. MELIORNIS NOV-E-HOLLANDIA& (M. 799, H. 354), (White-bearded Honey-eater). (a) 24th April, 1909, Sydney. (W.W.F.) Remains of two flies (Diptera); appear to have been Syrphide. (4) 2nd August, 1909, Sydney. Wings and part of body of large fly (?) ; some other remains of insects. (W.W.F.) Chiefly remains of various species of flies. 226 CLELAND, Contents of Stomachs and Crops of Birds. | a ee MELIORNIS SERICEA (M. 801, H. 356), (White-cheeked Honey- eater). 24th April, 1909, Sydney. (W.W.F.) The remains of several flies (Diptera), much decomposed ; species appear to belong to family Muscidz. MYZANTHA GARRULA (M. 804, H. 360), (Noisy Miner). 13th July, 1909, Orange, N.S.W. A few fragments of insects (legs, elytra, &c.) (W.W.F.) Remains of beetles (Heteromera, &c.) MYZANTHA FLAVIGULA (M. 806, H. 361), (Yellow-throated Miner). 5th October, 1909, Moree. Fragments of beetles and other insects; ? remains of grubs; several small yellowish kidney-shaped seeds. (W.W.F.) (1) Crane fly (Tipulidz), Diptera ; (2) remains of cut-worms (Agvotzs, sp.); (3) beetles (Heteromera). TROPIDORHYNCHUS CORNICULATUS (M. 816, H. 370), (Friar- Bird, Leatherhead). 3rd April, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. One dipterous insect ; seeds. FAMILY—ORIOLID. ORIOLUS SAGITTARIUS (M. 850, H. 62), (Oriole). 3rd April, 1909, Hawkesbury River, N.S.W. Exocarpos (?) fruits, red seeds. FAMILY—CORVID&. CORCORAX MELANORHAMPHUS (M. 883, H. 54), (White-winged Chough). 21st May, 1990, Berry, N.S.W. When shot, discharged a carnation-coloured fluid from anus and mouth, and the abdominal organs were similarly deeply tinted. This was due to the bird feeding on the fruit of the red- ink plant (Phytolacca decandra, Linn.) (W.W.F.) 9 9 .40 Petrophassa albipennis .. i ay 1 bird in Ap. 45 Lophophaps plumifera .. ash -. ) Keb. Mareen 56 Poliolimnas cinereus a a $5 55 as — 59 Microtribonyx ventralis ae Bat Ae Ap. 62 Porphyrio melanonotus .. * as ht * — 65 Podicipes nove-hollandie x oe Se. 3 5 119 Hydrochelidon hybrida .. is - nS ts Rs * Ante, in vol. ix., p. I and p. 53 respectively, q Vol. Pars 137 146 148 158 161 166 168 173 175 176 179 I8I 185 187 188 189 mere) 192 193 194 195 190 197 198 199 202 203 204 205 206 210 214 27, 218 222 223 224 226 228 234 238 241 242 252 253 254 256 258 262 265 266 267 268 271 277 MaTHEws, Birds Observed on Parry's Creek, N.W. Aust. 239 Larus nove-hollandie .. ae oon BED: = = Erythrogonys cinctus .. a on — Mar. Ap. Lobivanellus miles ae Se aR ae ¥ 3 Agialitis melanops ie te = AA a 5 Himantopus leucocephalus Ws ae s 3 53 Mesoscolopax minutus .. sth ie Fe -— A Limosa melanuroides.. sae Me *s — = Tringoides hypoleucus .. oi on 8 Mar eee Glottis nebularius a Be ae Fs ae Ap. Rhyacophilus glareola .. Le as 35 . D9 Pisobia ruficollis 500 site ate es * — Heteropygia aurita Rice a he 3 x Ap. Gallinago australis “ oe We - 6 3 Hydralector gallinaceous a Ne a — Stiltia isabella .. a sé ee fe Pr Ap. Glareola orientalis a ie ae % e Ap. Burhinus grallarius SZ : oe if : nS Eupodotis australis es a Se “ is Antigone australasiana .. oy: ae ¥ A o Ibis molucca .. AE ee ite ES » 9 Carphibis spinicollis oa ee ee s a3 9 Plegadis falcinellus oa “ . " » » Platalea regia .. bos ay ee A _ oF Platibis flavipes : Ber ia ee ae ann Xenorhynchus asiaticus ae So is . Ap. Mesophoyx plumifera_.. ae a sn ie 3 Herodias timoriensis 1 a He 3 rf ss Notophoyx nove-hollandie “i Bis 3 5 3 Be pacifica a Be ds iS e is i flavirostris .. a oe 5 Fs 9 Nycticorax caledonicus .. 3 7: io A? Dupetor gouldi ne wi St, a = — Anseranas semipalmata.. Ae ane fs Mar. Ap. Nettopus pulchellus i: re om Mf i = Dendrocygna arcuata.. At a 9 » » rs eytoni ie ae ss A aS oe Tadorna rufitergum Ae iy. cfs *, pi ¢ Anas superciliosa an xs a3 a A x Nettium gibberifrons .. Bas Seams pes 5 BP Aythya Aiseaaies : Te ny: 7 a Phalacrocorax sulcirostris site Pe 5 oa 3 melanoleucus we He 5 6 Fe Plotus ‘nove- -hollandiz .. ie Ses a a ae Pelecanus conspicillatus Ae Bk A 4: * Circus assimilis at aye ur ie ei 5 Pre OU Geer ae rt ie: ie ¥ es Astur nove-hollandie .. Bae Se pare Re Me ,, fasciatus 3 ow si 5 5 aa Uroaétus audax He wt Be es RP if. Haliaétus leucogaster .. me Bie ee as a Haliastur girrenera ae 5 Hp 1 bird in Feb. e sphenurus ; ft ebir < Miar Spe Milvus affinis .. Rare in Feb. Common in Mar. and Ap. Elanus axillaris. Only 1seenineach month Feb. Mar. Ap. * Falco lunulatus a) » 3) 240 MATHEWS, Birds Observed on Parry's Creek, N.W. Aust. ap ist April 278 Hieracidea berigora es ee he Feb. Mars > ap 279 5 orientalis *? i #: a x An 280 Cerchneis cenchroides .. a oe Aa 73 nS 285 Ninox ocellata 43 . nies ih GD: * i 289 ,, occidentalis a ie fe 38 Ap. 303 Trichoglossus rubritorques : 3 y 306 Ptilosclera versicolor .. ne Vou SURED P + == 316 Calyptorhynchus macrorhynchus oe s < Ap. 320 Cacatua galerita - a Me » ” ” 322 s gymnopis Bp 5 “ye 9 if » 324 roseicapilla 4) coe aa 33 e ae 327 Calopsittacus nove-hollandie “ie # oe Sat ar 331A Ptistes coccineopterus .. ne bie Feb. ‘3 3 372 Melopsittacus undulatus ay re — FR nt 377. Podargus phalenoides .. oe at 1 bird in Ap. 381 Eurystomus pacificus .. ots ie Keb.* Marne 383 Alcyone pulchra ane We ei — — Fri 388 Dacelo cervina ihe oie Ey Feb.) Marae, 390 Halcyon pyrrhopygius .. aire a 55 * » 391 me sanctus ne Me 5 ag 9 396 Merops ornatus Bt ons oie 3 ” » 398 Eurostopus argus a = os ee on is 403 Cypselus pacificus is a a — aa 5 404 Cuculus saturatus a sg it Feb.* Mar.*> 405 + inornatus cis ie Fi eS is » 406 Cacomantis rufulus ae a Mts a = aR 409 Mesocalius palliolatus .. oat ie ns Mar. — 410 Chalcococcyx basalis .. ae us re 5 = 415 Eudynamis cyanocephala ie "Be a jr Aaa abies Centropus phasianus Me ee i o aS Ap. 432 Petrochelidon ariel 3. oe asf a ag 434 Microeca assimilis ah aa ee - ne ”» 450 Smicrornis flavescens .. ss AS 3 ” 9 452 Gerygone cinerascens .. iy i 3 » » 469 Peecilodryas cerviniventris ie us 5 99 ” 486 Khipidura isura A * =f 5 » » 487 i tricolor 3 ‘3 aks 53 ” ” 489 Myiagra concinna a 54 a . is sis 494 Sisura nana me a aie st of Pe a 504 Coracina robusta ae We aa » ”» ” 506 af hypoleuca oF ae a ibe om ce 510 Lalage tricolor aye Be as “fs - » 532 Pomatostomus rubeculus ve aa 3 » » 538 Cinclorhamphus cruralis 2 we uae set ine 539 rufescens Hy in a3 a he 347 Ephthianura tricolor... A Legon pees 5: tea 552 Cisticola exilis .. i ae Bis Feb. 4 i 603 Malurus assimilis 25 °F aM eh aS in 608 - cruentatus a ot ee ‘i » » 624 Artamus leucogaster oss oe eat s FY =F 620 " cinereus yr: a ‘Fs ‘ fie Ap. 635 i minor an - zs a ni ut 638 Collyriocichla brunnea .. ‘is oH s y " 646 Grallina picata mS * is re PreeREneh 655 Cracticus picatus oe wh ae get in 5d a | MATHEWS, Birds Observed on Parry's Creek, N.W. Aust. 241 672 Pachycephala falcata... Se Ld Feb. Mar. Ap. 699 Neositta leucoptera 7ort Climacteris melanura ”) ) »” 22 Diceum hirundinaceum. . : Sane ebe. Mam Aes 728 Pardalotus rubricatus : Mi me 730 % uropygialis wy a . < be 734 Melithreptus albigularis Be i, sah Ay Rea 738 i letior i on oe ee 1 ne 758 Glycyphila fasciata very rare 762 Conopophila rufigularis Ne m: Feb. Mar. Ap. 765 Stigmatops ocularis 772 Ptilotis sonora 788 fe flavescens A oe a = a 0 795 xf unicolor $5 ee oe Feb. a: - 815 Entomyza albipennis ei Se 5 5 . 816 Tropidorhynchus argenticeps ve ¥ — — ate 819 Philemon citreigularis .. Sit a Feb. Mar. 822 Anthus australis ay sg oe — -- mee 825 Mirafra milligani a aS aye Feb...“ Mares; 831 Teniopygia castanotis 833 Stictoptera annulosa 835 Munia flaviprymna as ek ry — ce 836 5, pectoralis x a ba Feb:* Mar*> ay 839 ©6Bathilda ruficauda a ae Be ia — #3 841 Poephila acuticauda - Mar. x 844 a personata 4 é - 846 a gouldiz Be 3 849 Neochmia phaeton be a - 850 Mimeta sagittata : te Sed 1only — 851 , flavicinctus op ie es * “Mar:* Apt 863 Chlamydodera nuchalis .. 872 Corvus coronoides Birds about Drouin, Gippsland. By IsAAc BATEY. WEDGE-TAILED EAGLE (Uvoaétus audax).—Very rarely noted. GosHAWK (Astur approximans).—One seen. A single bird. Brown Hawk (Hieracidea orientalis). NANKEEN KEstTREL (Cerchneis cenchroides).—Common at times, and supposed to breed hereabouts. HARRIER (Circus gouldi).—Annual visitant, and breeds. BLACK-SHOULDERED Kite (Elanus avillaris).—Once some appeared, and were quite new to residents in my vicinage. BLACK-CHEEKED Fatcon (Falco melanogenys).—One only. BoosBook Owt (Ninox bookook).—Seen, often heard ; habitat seems fixed. Call sounds like ‘‘ Moopoop.”’ MaskebD Owt (Strix nove-hollandia).—By Mr. A. J. Campbell’s description (‘‘ Nests and Eggs,” p. 50, No. 39), there seems to be no mistake. It has large facial disc margined with purplish colour, while back outside of wings are richly marbled with tan, grey, and white. Emu 242 Batey, Birds about Drouin, Gippsland. cst Ape The markings resemble those of Strix delicatula. This Owl was shot here by Mr. Burniston, was stuffed and given to my sister. Brack Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus).—Rather frequently seen. WuitE Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita)—Two or three noted passing singly, but a flock seen at Traralgon. GANG-GanG Cockatoo (Callocephalon galeatum).— Observed on various occasions, once 15 in a pack. ROSELLA (Platycercus eximius).—Owing to clearance of timber this Parrot is very common. CRIMSON PARRAKEET (P. elegans).—Immature birds invade garden. Full-plumaged ones noted, but destruction of forestry seems to be pushing it back. KinG Lory (Aprosmictus cyanopygius).—Not personally observed, but my nephew, Mr. D.C. Swan, saw a pair, and says it is to be found at Yannathan and at Sale (Kilmany Park). WHITE-BACKED MAGPIE (Gymnorhina leuconota).—Can be reckoned common, which is due to the clearance of thick forestry. GREY CROW-SHRIKE (Stveperva cuneicaudata).—Twice a pair seen in garden. This species has a fancy for fallen apples. BuTcHER-BrirD (Cracticus destructor).—Nearly always about, and one killed a canary. BELL MINER (Manorhina melanophrys).—Saw a few about four miles away, the spot appropriately named “ Bell-Bird Corner,’ and I was told that on Tarago River, a mile from here, Bell-Birds were to be found, but a heavy bush-fire drove them out. ~ Rep WatTtLeE-Birp (Acanthochera carunculata).—Noticed ai times, and appears to breed. SILVER-EYE (Zostevops carulescens).—A pair nested in garden. Devours peach aphis. A nice flock of these birds seen on Tarago River. SPINEBILL (Acanthorhynchus tenuivostris).—Seen in garden at times. WHITE-BEARDED HONEyY-EATER (Meliornis nove-hollandie).—One only, either immature or a female. YELLOW-TUFTED HONEY-EATER (Ptilotis auricomis).*—The com- monest of its kind here. BROWN-HEADED HONEY-EATER (Melithrveptus brevirostvis).—A rare bird. LAUGHING JAcKAss (Dacelo gigas).—Very common, and when my sister first settled here carried off newly-hatched chickens. My nephew, riding to Drouin, saw a Hawk with a dead snake, and a pair of Jacks, setting upon him, deprived him of his booty. SACRED KINGFISHER (Halycon sanctus)—Comes to breed about October. AZURE KINGFISHER (Alcyone azuvea).—Only one seen. PaLttip Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus)—Mr. Swan states he has noted it hereabouts. * More probably the Helmeted Honey-eater (P. cassidtx).—-EDs. ep hees Batey, Birds about Drouin, Gippsland. 243 FAN-TAILED CucKoo (Cacomantis flabelliforymis).—Frequently seen. BroNZE-CucKkoo (Chalcococcyx plagosus).—A pair only, in company, about November. STUBBLE QUAIL (Coturnix pectoralis).—Seen on divers occasions. BRowN Quail (Synecus australis)—Have flushed packs on Gum- scrub Creek, a runnel passing through Mrs. Swan’s land. PAINTED QuaiL (Turnix varia).—Flushed from bracken ferns, but so far have not found Quail of any sort numerous. BRONZE-WING PIGEON (Phaps chalcoptera).—Only two seen. SPOTTED GROUND-BIRD (Cinclosoma punctatum).—Two only seen. I believe this bird was styled of old Ground-Pigeon. SPOTTED-SIDED FINCH (Staganopleura guttata).—One shot here by my nephew, who sent feathers to Sunbury, from which I identified it. RED-BROWED FINCH (4gintha temporalis).—Frequently seen. Pipit (Anthus australis).—Very often seen. BusH-LarKk (Mirafra horsfieldi).—Judging by peculiar flight, this bird was seen, but Anthus australis and M. horsfieldi are so much alike on the wing that I could not tell one from the other unless handled. BLACK-AND-WHITE FLYCATCHER (Rhipidura tricoloy).—Common here. Nests in a pine 25 yards from house. A pair has raised two broods this season, and seems to be hatching out a third. WHITE-SHAFTED FAantaiL (Riipidura albiscapa).—Can be seen daily. Brown FLycaTcHER (Micreca fascinans).—Comes every season. Works in pairs, but last winter four were seen not far apart. SHINING FLYCATCHER (Myiagra nitida).—First saw it in forest country near Woodend; always alone, and on 2nd January, 1910, observed one in lightwoods on Gumscrub Creek. The Emu established its identity. Roughly in a direct line from where first seen to Drouin is 100 miles. RED-TIPPED PARDALOTE (Pardalotus ornatus).—A pair seen, one of them immature, therefore they must nest hereabouts. FLAME-BREASTED RoBIn (Petr@ca phenicea).—Not so many in 1g0g as in previous years. SCARLET-BREASTED RoBIN (Petreca leggit).—Not plentiful; is met with all the year round, hence it will nest here. YELLOW-BREASTED Rosin (Eopsaltvia australis).—Can be seen every day. BLACK-FACED CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Graucalus melanops).—This bird appears frequently. BLuE WREN (Malurus cyaneus).—Is quite common here. Emu-WREN (Sétipiturus malachurus).—Inhabits rushes on Gumscrub Creek, where I have seen it frequently. GREY SHRIKE-THRUSH (Collyriocincla harmonica).—A permanent resident. Nests in garden, and seems to court the society of man. CoAcHWHIP-BirRD (Psophodes crepitans).--More often heard than seen. SPINE-TAILED Swirt (Chetura caudacuta).—Appears annually, and was observed on 29/11/09, my earliest record. 244 Batey, Birds about Drouin, Gippsland. 1 Aa WELCOME SWALLOW (Hivundo neoxena).—Comes regularly. TREE-MartTIN (Petrochelidon nigricans).—As far as noted, visits in fair numbers to breed. MaGpiE-LArRK (Grallina picata).—This bird breeds here in a pine a pistol-shot from the back door. The other morning counted eight feeding not 15 paces from the verandah. Woop-SwaLLow (Artamus sordidus).—Otten seen. WHITE-FRONTED HERON (Ardea nove-hollandi@).—Have seen this Crane a few times. A TREE-CREEPER noted, but cannot say whether it was Climacteris leucophea or C, scandens. Probably the former. WHITE-FRONTED CHat (Ephthianura albifrons).—Often seen. Brack Duck (Anas superciliosa).—Have seen it occasionally. Grey TEAL (Nettion gibberifrons).—Once saw a flock of about a score. Coot (Fulica australis).—One only. LitTLE CRAKE (Porzana palustris ).—Met with this bird, and managed to shoot it ; sent description to Mr. A. J. Campbell, who identified it. ORIOLE (Oriolus viridis).—At certain periods it is met with, and I find from one shot in garden that it eats apples. Crows or Ravens (Corvus coronoides or Corone australis).—Only on two occasions here have I seen a brace, and am unable to say to which of these species they belonged. My nephew speaks of having seen them in swarms. SNIPE (Gallinago australis)—A few appeared on the marsh ; one was shot and stuffed, and I think it is Gallinago australis. Satin BoweEr-Birp (Ptilonorhynchus violaceus).—Twice flocks have invaded the garden in quest of fruit. Many were shot, and when one is fired on, the others, sitting perfectly still, are not easily to be seen in a tree. YELLOW-RUMPED Tit (Acanthiza chrysorrhoa).— Fairly common ; nests in garden, and eats peach aphis. Brown Tir (A. pusilla)—This bird nests in garden, eats peach aphis, and in the off season we find it in small flocks. BuFF-RUMPED Tit (A. reguloides).—I may be in error with respect to this mite. A person not particularly observant would mistake it for a Yellow-tail. Years ago the same Tit was found in the eucalyptus . country at Mt. William, near Lancefield. WHITE-THROATED THICKHEAD (Pachycephala gutturalis)—Have met with this charming bird occasionally. RUFOUS-BREASTED THICKHEAD (P. rufiventris).—Seen at times. OLIVE THICKHEAD (P. olivacea)—During my residence here this bird was noted about three times, always singly. In list of Sunbury birds sent to The Emu this Thickhead was not recorded. We dubbed it ‘‘ Brim.”’ Never saw it with a mate. ScRUB-WREN (Sericorvnis osculans).—Have observed it in scrub on Tarago River. LitTLE CoRMORANT (Phalacrocorax melanoleucus).—Once or twice seen on Tarago River. pols Ex- BateEy, Birds about Drouin, Gippsland. 245 1910 MISTLETOE-BirD (Diceum hirundinaceum).—No mistletoes here, but they are found at Jindivick, where it is said this exquisite creature is to be seen. Rotter or DoLLar-Birp (Eurystomus australis)—Mr. D. C. Swan speaks of having seen it. STRAW-NECKED IBIS (Gevonticus spinicoliis)—Mrs. Gabbett, of Drouin, recently saw a flock of these circling about, and noticed that they pitched on dead trees. My nephew asserts he has seen Ibis in this region. A Lyre-Birp (Menura victorieg), according to Mr. D. C. Swan, occurs some 8 or 10 miles westerly from where I live. Mr. Swan states there is only one, but if inquiries were made others may not be far away. At Krafft’s (of Bunyip) is a case of birds said to be purely local, among them a fine Parrot, the size of a Crimson Parrakeet, and if I am not in error it has a strip of dark colour across the breast. My nephew speaks of having on very rare occasions seen a strange Parrot here, therefore the one at Bunyip may be the same.* It would be a good thing if a picture of a bird drawn on the flat came out in the School Paper, giving names for its outward parts. [Mr. Batey is probably the oldest bird-observer in the State, his observations dating back to 1839. The foregoing observations, however, have been made during the last three years.—Eps. | Stray Feathers. Cuckoo NOoTEs.—Last October (1909) my father found a nest of the Calamanthus albiloris, containing a young Cuckoo, Cacomantis rufulus,- and a nest of Acrocephalus australzs wherein a young Cuckoo, Chalcococcyx plagosus, was being successfully reared. Both these are probably new foster-parent records.— L., G. CHANDLER. Malvern, 12/2/10. * * * FEATHERS AND FROST.—During the late winter I found, upon two occasions, Swallows (Hzrundo neoxena), firmly frozen to an iron roof. The birds roosted under and touching the roof, and during the night their feathers became attached to it by the process of freezing, and in the morning the Swallows were prisoners until the ice melted—H. L. WHITE. Belltrees, vz Scone, N.S.W., 5/9/09. * x FULL CLUTCHES OF WATTLE-BIRDS.—On 8th October of this year, while searching for Lyre-Birds, in the company of Mr. Harry Burrell, of Manilla, New South Wales, I discovered a Wattle- Bird’s (Acanthochera carunculata) nest about 12 feet from the ground containing the exceptional clutch of three fine fresh eggs. Mr. Burrell went to considerable trouble and secured a * Probably P. ignzéus—a hybrid. —Ebs. + Mathews’ ‘* Handlist.” [ Emu ist April 246 Stray Feathers. good photograph of the clutch in the nest. I see by my notes that in November, 1906, a friend and myself discovered a Wattle-Bird’s nest containing three young birds just ready to leave the nest.—L. C. CooK. Poowong, Gippsland, 24/12/09. * * * A NOVEL EXPERIMENT.—A neighbour of mine made an interesting experiment in bird-rearing recently. Finding in the bush one day two Stone-Plover’s (Burhinus grallarius) eggs, she took them home and placed them with some eggs under a domestic hen. One of the Stone-Plover’s eggs, unfortunately, got broken, but the other hatched out. Being unable to follow its foster-mother about, the Plover chick was kept inside during the day, and returned to the hen again at night. For a few days the little “Curlew” flourished, but then one morning a White-backed Magpie (Gymnorhina leuconota) was seen flying away with it. The Magpie was shot later on.—A. G. CHIS- HOLM. Maryborough, 3/2/I0. * * * REMARKS ON EOPSALTRIA JACKSONI, LE SOUEF.—Mr. A. J. Campbell has sent me a specimen of Mr. Le Souéf’s new Eopsaltria from the Herberton Range (Amu, 1909, pp. 70, 71, pl. iii.) I have taken the specimens in my collection and Mr. Campbell’s bird to compare with the series in the British Museum (which has the type of &. chrysorrhoa and also a skin of E. magnitrostris). My opinion is that Hopsaltria jacksonz is not distinguishable from P. maguzrostris, which, in turn, is not’to be separated from £. chrysorrhoa. I think there is no question about £. jacksonz being merged as a synonym of £. chrysorrhoa, as in the series examined there are no characters for specific separation to be discovered—GREGORY M. MATHEWS. Wat- ford, Herts., England. * * * THE MAGPIE DEFAMED.—I regret that in this district the Magpie (Gymnorhzna leuconota) does not bear nearly as good a name as it did formerly. Ata recent “ evening with the birds,” before a mixed audience of farmers and orchardists, the farmers found fault with it for pulling up sprouting wheat, and one orchardist proclaimed the bird as an occasional fruit-eater. But the greatest objection to ‘‘ Maggie” is its pugnacity during the nesting season, many birds having been shot for attacking and terrifying children. The reply to this objection is that the Magpie has learnt by bitter experience of the danger from marauding boys, and the birds can hardly be expected to discriminate.*—A. H. CHISHOLM. Maryborough, 3/2/I0. *It is more probable that the birds have become accustomed to human beings— wild Magpies are always shy.—EDs. Vol. IX. ae Stvay Feathers. 247 TOOTH-BILLED BOWER-BIRD.—I have rarely been out of the scrub since February last, and have had ample opportunities of watching our friends the Tooth-billed Bower-Birds (Scenopeetes denttrostrzs), and am certain that for three or four months the birds leave the district ; moreover, they do not immediately construct bowers, or rather play-grounds, when they return, as I heard and saw them often before I saw the first bower. From February last until the middle of August I did not see a trace of a playing- place ; now I see them wherever I go. The conclusion is, there- fore, that the bird makes its play-ground preparatory to nesting.* They are exceedingly numerous in the scrubs this season, also the Rifle-Bird (Pizlorhis victcria) is often in evidence.—BERTRAM GREEN. Atherton, Queensland, 16th November, 1909. * * * FLAME-BREASTED ROBIN (PETRGCA PHCENICEA).—In an edi- torial footnote to a note by Mr. H. Stuart Dove in the previous issue of Zhe Emu (p. 172) on this species breeding in immature plumage, it is stated that this fact had not been previously reported. On referring to Mr. A. J. North’s “ Nests and Eggs,” &c. (vol. i., p. 166), I find he records two instances as having been observed by correspondents. It was in the spring of 1896 that the breeding of birds in immature plumage came _ pro- minently under my notice, owing to a pair building on the rail of a fence in my father’s garden. Since that date I have come across a number of similar instances. Mr. H. C. Thompson informs me that one year every nest of this species he observed round Launceston was in possession of immature-plumaged birds.—FRANK M. LITTLER. Launceston, 28/1/Io. * + * THE WHITE-THROATED FLY-EATER.—Mr. A. G. Campbell’s note in the last issue of Ze Emu on the White-throated Fly- eater (Gerygone albigularis) was of special interest to me, because I can supply another record of this bird’s presence in Victoria. On the 30th August, 1909, a male bird visited Mary- borough. Early in the morning it fluttered through an open window on the second floor of a tailoring establishment in the heart of the town. It remained for some time, dexterously catching house-flies near the ceiling of the room. The visitor eventually flew out of the window again, and disappeared. It may be remembered that shortly before the date mentioned there were heavy storms all over the country, and it was doubt- less this stress of weather that drove the bird into a town. A few days before the Fly-eater came, a Crested Shrike-Tit (Falcunculus frontatus)—a rare bird in town —was_ seen fluttering in a local shop window.—A. H. CHISHOLM. Mary- borough, 3/2/10. * As proved by Mr. Sid. W. Jackson—see Zu, June, 1909 (Special Part).—Ebs. 248 Stray Feathers. Emu ist April THE COACHWHIP-BIRD (PSOPHODES CREPITANS).—As there has been much controversy regarding the call of the Coachwhip- Bird, a note on the subject may be of interest. For many years I have been familiar with the haunts of this species, and felt convinced that the curious notes that follow so quickly on the whip-crack call of the male were produced by the female only. However, at Olinda (Vic.),on the Ist February, 1908, I was forced to change my opinion. In company with Mr. T. H. Tregellas, I heard the male Coachwhip-Bird’s call and the answering call of the female. We were fortunate enough to see the birds on the opposite sides of a road. The male bird was anxious to cross, but seeing us, was afraid. On the edge of the undergrowth, as it restlessly hopped about, we had it under close observation as several times it emitted the two calls in con- junction. Finally, growing bolder, the sprightly form, with crest erect, flitted across the road and joined its mate. With Mr. F. E. Wilson, at Beaconsfield, at a later date, I was able to confirm this note. There also the evidence was sure, for the bird was crossing some open burnt scrub.—L. G. CHANDLER. Malvern. * * * DOUBLE-BANDED DOTTREL.—In a swampy paddock at East Devonport, on 16th July, I noticed 20 or 30 birds which appeared to be the above species (Ochthodromus bicinctus), although their wariness prevented a certain identification. A couple of months later, however, a pair of these handsome Dottrels was observed feeding on the beach at Devonport in company with some of the smaller or Red-capped species, which is always to be found here. This was on 15th September, and this morning, at the end of October, I had the pleasure of seeing two pairs of the Double-banded on the beach in company with about a dozen of their smaller brethren. Southern New Zealand is usually regarded as the breeding-ground of dzcznctus, but it seems pretty certain that these pairs, if they intend raising a family this season, will breed on Tasmanian shores. On the same beach to-day was a party of eight Sharp-tailed Stints (Heteropygia aurita), probably just arrived from their breeding- grounds in Northern Asia. The Banded Dottrels looked very handsome in summer plumage, the broad band across white breast being very conspicuous ; the narrower band across fore- neck was also distinctly visible—H. STUART DOVE. West Devonport (Tas.), 30/10/09. * * * THE BROWN TIT (ACANTHIZA PUSILLA) AS A MIMIC.—This useful insectivorous bird is a perfect mimic. On the 11th October, 1908, I found a nest of this species with young. The nest was placed ina Leptospermum bush, about 3 feet from the Vol. IX. Save Stvay Feathers: 249 ground. The squeaking of the young quickly brought the parents on the scene. I was surprised when I heard one of the old birds imitate perfectly the short, chipping notes of the White-shafted Fantail (R/zpzdura albiscapa). The young ceased squeaking, so I imitated a young bird in distress. The poor parent birds became violently agitated, flying within a foot or two of my head, at the same time mimicking to perfection and in repetition the notes of the following species* :—Rhzpidura albtscapa, Ptilotis leucotis, Malurus cyanochlamys, Artamus tenebrosus, Platycercus eximius, Pachycephala pectoralis, and Climacteris scandens. I had my note-book in hand, and took down the calls as I recognized them. It was singular that the birds did not use their ordinary notes between the other calls. No doubt the calls were given to decoy me from the nest. Altogether this little experience was very pleasant, and I spent about half an hour in the vicinity of the nest correctly noting the different calls —L. G. CHANDLER. Malvern. * * * MOULTING OF BLUE WRENS (MALURUS GOULDI).—It was with some surprise that I read Mr. Dove’s statement (Zz, vol. ix., p. 154) that he doubts the change of plumage of the adult male of this species into the drab dress during autumn and winter. My acquaintance with the Blue Wren has extended over both a number of years and a wide area, and I have always been careful to note anything unusual either in habits or plumage, not only of this species but of others. The sight of an adult bird in breeding plumage in winter has always been looked upon by me as something out of the common. I have no recollection any winter of having ever seen more than, say, two birds in breeding plumage anywhere round Launceston. Last Easter I was staying on a farm some 15 miles or so out of Launceston, where birds are encouraged round the _ house. Among other species (7. gou/dz was present in astonishing numbers, but not a sign of anything but drab-plumaged birds was seen. A pair of birds that breed in a neighbour’s garden have been under observation for several seasons, and the fact always noted that on the approach of winter the male doffed his bright coat. The one never-failing distinguishing mark of the sexes when both are in non-breeding plumage is that the tail of the male is distinctly blue, while that of the female is similar to the upper surface of the body.— FRANK. M. LITTLER. Launces- ceston, 28/1/10. + * * New NESTING LOCALITY FOR FLAME-BREASTED ROBIN.— In a list published in the Vzctorzan Naturalist, vol. viii., p. 193, of birds observed during November, 1891, in the Grampians, * Scientific names from Matthews’ ‘* Handlist,”’ 250 Stvay Feathers. Fee: there appears the name Petreca phenicea. But it is remark- able that no further mention was made in the body of this report, since this is one of the earliest records we have of the species being found in summer on the mainland of Australia. This season I am able to verify this record. In a monograph on the Flame-breasted Robin (see 7he Him, vol. viii., p. 122) I stated that after three seasons’ personal acquaintance with the Grampians, I considered the early record “not proven,” but now, the fourth season, I have had the pleasure of examining two nests in the month of October, and of noting several pairs of birds about the mountains. It was on goth October, 1909, in the Stony Creek valley, and at an elevation of 1,640 feet above sea level, that the first pair were seen, the male attracting atten- tion by his persistent song. After some search a nest was discovered in the hollow elbow of a gum-tree, newly built and ready for eggs. On the 12th October, further up the valley, on the old gold diggings (elevation 1,750 feet), a male bird was observed feeding, and, again, on the 18th October, on another portion of the range, a nest containing three eggs was found in a bole of a dead tree. In this case a remarkable circumstance pertaining to the pair was that the male bird was apparently in immature plumage. On the same day a Robin was observed among the rocks of an adjacent peak, altitude 3,000 feet. Although the species was not plentiful, yet the records in these four different localities above 1,000 feet elevation come with added interest when I remember that three of these localities at any rate have been visited during past summers with the express purpose of verifying the presence of Flame-breasted Robins, but without success. I have stayed several times at a hut under the slopes of Mt. Redman, but not until this season have I seen Robins about; the nest referred to containing eggs being within a stone’s throw of the door. The inference, then, is that the Flame-breasted Robins do not stay every year to breed upon these mountains. But, of course, this will be an interest- ing matter for future observation.—A. G. CAMPBELL. Pomonal (Vic.), December, 1909. * * * OCCURRENCE OF THE KING PENGUIN IN TASMANIA.—In the October number of 7he Hmu* Mr. Conigrave records the Crested Penguin (Catarrhactes) as having recently strayed a& far north as Rottnest Island, Western Australia. In December last a King Penguin (Aptenodytes patagonica) was killed by fishermen on the ocean beach of Maria Island, on the east coast of Tasmania. This may only be recorded as a stray or occasional (rare) visitor. As it should have been breeding in the islands of Antarctic waters (Dec.—Jan.), the Penguin most * Vol. ix., part 2, p. 92 (1909). eS Vol. IX. Stray Feathers. 251 1910 probably went north or north-west instead of east or south, apparently from an error in its race instinct. It has been recorded from Stewart Island, N.Z., which is in closer connection with the group of islands to the south where the species is known to breed. One point of interest is whether this specimen wandered north-west from the waters of Macquarie Island, or directly from the south. ‘Many years ago, when visiting Kerguelen Island (Feb., 1898), I met a bird that differed so greatly from Aptenodytes patagonica that I made a note of it in my diary, without placing any name on my list in Zhe /bzs,* as hitherto unrecorded in Kerguelen. The lois words read :—“ (c) was a moulting bird with nearly double the girth of others of the same height, and was apparently one-third heavier. Instead of golden-yellow on its neck, it had white feebly tinged with yellow, and there was no gold line on the chest.” At that time it appeared to me to be one-third heavier, but on further consideration it must have been of greater weight. The King Penguin with which I compared it proved to be about 34 lbs. in weight. A few weeks ago, when comparing Antarctic Penguins, I realized that the bird I saw in Kerguelen was the Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forstert). As A. forstert had not been previously recorded, and did not appear to be breeding when I was visiting the island, I am inclined to record the single specimen as only a visitor, in so low a latitude, in January. It should have been in Antarctica, where it alone is known to live. Dr. Wilson, of the Dezscovery (National Antarctic Expedition, 1901-4), says :—“ The Emperor Penguin is a true ice-bird, never being found north of the great ice barrier. It breeds in the Antarctic in August, the period of greatest cold and complete darkness, when the thermometer is often 100 degrees below zero. It is a true south polar bird.” These solitary examples apparently have over-travelled in their migrations, but under what conditions—storm, errant, or company of another species—it would be scarcely safe to say.— ROBERT HALL. The Museum, Hobart. * * * CLEVELAND (TAS.) NOTES.—21/9/09.—Watched male Yellow- throated Honey-eater (Pielotzs flavigularis) feeding his sitting mate. As he neared the nest he gave a peculiar call, she hopped from the nest on to a twig near, received the food (an insect) and returned to the nest. The nest was built among bracken ferns and fallen twigs, and contained two eggs. One of these appeared heavily incubated, and the other light and fresh, but it afterwards proved to be addled. 19/10/09.—Found fresh egg of Pallid Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus) * [bis, Jan., 1900, p. 34. 252 Stray Feathers. eae in a nest of the above species. The Honey-eater’s nest had two young ones in. These were apparently recently hatched, and had a few tufts of down on head, wings, and body. 21/9/09. — White-bearded Honey-eater (Meliornis nove- hollandi@).—¥\ushed male bird off nest containing two eggs. This nest was remarkable as being made almost entirely of wool, the latter being carried from remains of a dead sheep a few yards away. 15/11/09.—Pallid Cuckoo’s (Cuculus pallidus) egg in nest of Goldfinch (European). 6/11/09. — Watched Wood-Swallow (Artamus sordidus) breaking twigs for a nest. He sat on a branchlet of a dead stringy-bark, and, hopping up to the desired piece, caught it in his beak, and, with a downward jerk, snapped off the tiny bit. He did this several times, until he had a mouthful, when he flew off to the nesting site. 14/11;09,—Watched a pair of Graucalus (G. parvirostris) nest-building. The nest at which they were working was high in the flat fork of a white gum. Occasionally one bird would arrive with a mouthful just as its mate was leaving. The latter would return to the nest and re-arrange what it had just placed there, the other meanwhile resting patiently on the limb near by until its contrary mate decided to leave. I saw the birds seeking up and down the cracks, forks, and twigs of the trees for cobwebs, so conclude the nest was nearly finished. A pair of Yellow-rumped Tits (Acanthiza chrysorrhoa) built their nest in the rose-bush growing over the verandah. Three eggs were laid, and the hen had been sitting two days when she was killed by a cat while off her nest. All that morning the male bird whistled round about, but, obtaining no response by afternoon, he flew over the fence to some wattles. Here he could still be heard singing, and by the afternoon of next day was back with a fresh mate. They inspected the old nest, then hunted along the creepers and chose a fresh spot. Next day a foundation of cobwebs was laid, and in five days the new nest was finished. Both these nests were commenced with cobwebs on the vines, from which nests were hung, then the cup part was made, the dome and top nest being worked last. This season I have noticed several instances of the Yellow Wattle-Bird (Acanthochera inaurts) sitting on one egg only; likewise one instance of the Brush Wattle-Bird (Acanthochera mellevora) doing the same. From a Spotted Ground-Bird’s (Czxclosoma punctatum) nest under observation I found that in this case the bird laid every other day.—J. A. FLETCHER. Cleveland (Tas.) * * * HOW THE PENGUIN FISHES.—One fine afternoon, recently, a friend and myself were walking near the bank of the Mersey Vol. IX. Stray Feathers. 253 1910 River, north-west Tasmania, when we noticed a swirling move- ment in the water, as if a struggle were taking place beneath the surface. In a few minutes the head of a Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor, Fors.) appeared, a kind of hoarse “ quawk” was uttered, and the head disappeared. Presently the same swirling movement of the water took place in the clear water close to the bank, and we were enabled to see the Penguin paddling round and round beneath the surface after a shoal of small mullet. He followed every curve and twist of the fishes, doubtless swallowing every now and then one of the rear-guard.. Mr. A. J. Campbell, in “ Nests and Eggs,” describes a similar scene in the waters of Port Phillip Bay. Our Penguin was well away from the open sea, two miles from the river mouth, and is the first I have seen venture so far inland ; he appeared to be solitary. The water is, of course, saltish all the way up the estuary. There were several logs and branches of fallen trees projecting into the water from the bank, but the bird slipped over the logs and glided between the branches with wonderful skill while continuing the chase. We could see plainly that only the wings were used for propulsion, the beats being by no means excessively rapid, but made with a certain deliberation, as though the bird were certain of his prey and had no need of undue haste. The legs were placed close together in a line with the body, answering the purpose of a helm. Every minute or two the bird would come to the surface to breathe, sometimes just poking his bill up, then diving under again ; sometimes coming up bodily and uttering the hoarse “ quawk” which we had heard at first, then swimming about on the surface for a short space before diving, as if to take his bearings. The light blue of the back showed up beautifully in the sunlight while the bird was swimming in the clear shallow water close to the bank, and we could discern also the edge of the white under surface and the white inner margin of the paddles. During last winter (1909) we had a large number of calm, sunny days, and frequently rowed a boat a mile or so out to sea to fish from. While on these expeditions we were struck by the immense numbers of Little Penguins haunting the coast; doubtless they were attracted by the vast shoals of whitebait which were a feature of that winter. During those sunny days the sea was very clear and blue, and while gazing into its depths we could discern thousands of these delicate little fish. Bearing in mind the abundance of this food supply, it is not wonderful that Penguins also appeared in unusual numbers. My note-book shows that 4th July, 1909, was fine, with light south wind, Little Penguins in great numbers on the surface of the sea off Mersey Bluff, calling all round us with a hoarse “ quawking” or barking noise. 7th July.— Penguins making a great outcry in the waters along this part of the coast. 17th July.—Penguins calling 254 Stvay Feathers. [ase "April vociferously, some close in shore. So continued all through the month, while the calm, warm days lasted and the small fish remained. Never before have I known Penguins to appear in such numbers on the coast.—H. STuART DovE, F.Z.S. Tas. 11/2/10. * * * BIRDS OBSERVED AT INTERLAKEN, TASMANIA, I3TH AND 14TH NOVEMBER.—Some miles out from Tunbridge * the Interlaken road, which is really the regular stock route to the Great Lake pasture grounds, rises sharply up the face of the Western Tiers. The grade is very steep, and for three miles the bicycles must be pushed upwards. Therefore constant halts are necessary, and during these I was able to observe the birds listed :-—Brown Hawk (Hieracidea orientalis), Sparrow-Hawk (Accipiter cirrhocephalus), Butcher-Bird (Cracticus cinereus), Whistling Shrike-Thrush (Collyriocincla rectt- rostris), Small-billed Cuckoo-Shrike (Graucalus parvirostris), Dusky Fantail (Rhipidura diemenensis), Scarlet-breasted Robin (Petreca leggit), Flame-breasted Robin (P. phenicea), Pink-breasted Robin (P. rhodinogastra), Dusky Robin (P. vittata), Long-tailed Blue Wren (Malurus gouldi), Strong-billed Honey-eater (Melithreptus validi- rostris), Black-headed Honey-eater (M. melanocephalus), Yellow- throated Honey-eater (Ptilotis flavigularis), Miner (Myzantha garrula), Yellow Wattle-Bird (Acanthochera inauris), Brush Wattle- Bird (A. mellivora), Allied Pardalote (Pardalotus affinis), Tree- Martin (Petrochelidon mnigricans), Rosella Parrakeet (Platycercus eximius), Green Parrakeet (P. flaviventris). When the summit of the Tiers is reached the road to Interlaken for four or five miles is fairly level. Lakes Sorell and Crescent lie close together at an altitude of about 3,000 feet, and are separated by a strip of land a quarter of a mile wide. In winter snow-storms are severe, and were especially so this past season—the multitude of broken branches which strewed the ground gave ample proof of the heaviness of the falls. Snow had fallen two days before, on the roth, so this may account for the complete absence of the Magpie, none being seen until the lower levels were regained on the homeward journey. Owing to a short stay, I was unable to explore a great deal of the shores of the lakes, but the following birds were’ seen :—Black Swans (Chenopis atrata), Black Duck (Anas _ superciliosa), White-fronted Heron (Notophoyx nove- hollandie), Black Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), Native-Hen (Lribonyx mortiert), Bronze-wing (Phaps elegans), Green Parrakeet (Platycercus flaviventris), Rosella (P. eximius), Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus), Bronze-Cuckoo (Chalcococcyx plagosus), Fan-tailed Cuckoo (Cacomantis flabelliformis), Pallid Cuckoo (Cuculus pallidus), Fire-tailed Finch (Zoneginthus bellus), Wood-Swallow (Artamus sordidus), Tree-Martin (Petrochelidon nigricans), Welcome Swallow (Hirundo neoxena), Yellow-tipped Pardalote (Pardalotus affinis), Diamond-Bird (P. punctatus), Yellow * Tunbridge is 74 miles south from Launceston ; altitude, 750 feet, Vol. IX. Igo Stray Feathers. 255 Wattle-Bird (Acanthochera inauris), Brush Wattle-Bird (A. mel- livora), Yellow-throated Honey-eater (Péilotis flavigularis), Brown- rumped Tit (Acanthiza diemenensis), Long-tailed Blue Wren (Malurus gouldi), Dusky Robin (Petrewca vittata), Flame-breasted Robin (P. pheenicea), Dusky Fantail (Rhipidura diemenensis), Small-billed Cuckoo-Shrike (Graucalus parvirostris), Crow or Raven, Brown Hawk (Hieracidea orientalis), Pipit (Anthus australis), Sooty Crow-Shrike (Strepera fuliginosa), Hill Crow-Shrike (S. arguta). No young were seen with the water-birds. Nests examined were Brown-rumped Tit’s (with two eggs), Flame- breasted Robin’s (with three young) ; Diamond-Bird’s (in tunnel in root of upturned tree), with five eggs, heavily incubated—that is, judging by appearances ; new Native-Hen’s nest, built in tea-tree boughs.—(Mrss) J. A. FLETCHER. * K * BIRD NOTES FROM THE UPPER GOULBURN.—The scrub that fringes the banks of the Goulburn River above Wood’s Point forms an ideal home for birds, and here may be found such forms as the Lyre-Bird (Zenura victori@), Rufous-breasted Thickhead (Pachycephala rufiventris), Leaden Flycatcher (Myiagra rubecula), Rufous Fantail (Rhwpidura rufifrons), Flame-breasted Robin (Petraca phanicea), and others. Among the tall eucalypts large numbers of the Lunulated Honey- eaters (Melithreptus atricapillus) are at present breeding. The nest, which is suspended from a slender bough, usually out of reach, is formed of grass and bark shreds, ornamented with spider cocoons and small pieces of lichen. On 23rd November I discovered a pair of young ones perched together on a slender twig of wattle (Acacza). They were evidently about 14 days’ old, and not yet able to fly. Beyond the green back and white under parts they bore slight resemblance to the parent birds, there being no black cap, but a dark patch on side of head around the eye. An indistinct grey stripe indicated where the crescent “moon-mark” would be at maturity. The parent birds took turns in feeding the young; the speed with which they gathered a beakful of insects off the wattle trees and returned was astonishing. On the same day I found the nest of a pair of White-eared Honey-eaters (P#z/otis /eucotzs), with a single young one perched above it, apparently about 12 days out of theegg. The nestling’s general colour was greyish-green ; fourth primary in wings white; greyish-white blotch on side of head ; tail very short. Flocks of Grey Strepera (Strepera versicolor) and Pied Strepera (Strepera graculina) may always be found in this district, and their nests are generally placed in the most inaccessible trees, though occasionally one may be found ina lower position. The Streperas are ground feeders, their principal food consisting of the large black and red _bull- ants, though in the fruit season they attack orchards, pecking 256 Stray Feathers. Rosi plums, pears, apples, &c. When on a raid, a sentinel is placed in a high tree, while the others feed below, and at the slightest sign of danger he swoops from his perch with a loud call, and the whole flock rises into the air and flies away. Yellow-faced Honey-eaters (Péz/otzs chrysops) are very numerous, and during the course of an afternoon’s ramble as many as ten or twelve nests may be observed. Nests are placed in small trees and bushes, and rarely exceed the height of 6 feet, and I have seen them as low as 2 feet from the ground. When only two eggs are laid, and one is taken, the birds destroy the remaining egg and desert the nest, but if the full number is three and one is purloined no notice is taken of the robbery. Wattle-Birds (Anellobia carunculata) are plentiful, the bush resounding with their queer calls—“ Chock-o-lock !” “ Kurra-choc!” “ Ker-choc- chock!” “ Peet!” Neither Mr. A. G. Campbell * nor Mr. R. Hall + states very definitely in what positions the Flame-breasted Robin (Petreca phenicea) places its nest, and as the birds build regularly in this district (2,000 odd feet above sea level) the following notes may be of interest :—In. this locality the nest is invariably situated in a small cavity in a rock bank, generally under the shelter of an overhanging tussock of grass. The materials used in its construction are wool, horsehair, and cowhair, firmly welted together ; sometimes a few lichens ornament the exterior, but such is not always the case. November and December are the breeding months, though one or two nests may be found in January still containing young. Two, three, or four eggs constitute a clutch. I have never seen a nest in any other situation than that described—perhaps because the crevices of the rocks are to be found everywhere in the slate formations, and no trouble is needed on the part of the birds to find a suitable site. On 12th November I discovered a Rufous-breasted Thickhead (Pachycephala rufiventris) greedily devouring a large emperor gum moth, and this is, I think, a new departure on the part of the birds, from which great benefit will be derived. The only other birds (exclusive of Owls and other nocturnal birds) that feed on this pest are the Gang-Gang Cockatoos (Callocephalum galeatum), which tear open the tough cocoon to get at the chrysalis inside—NOEL E. MaAppIson. Wood’s Point. From Magazines, &c. A WONDERFUL,MIGRANT.—To The Lyttelton Times (N.Z.), of 11th September, 1908, Mr. James Drummond, F.Z.S., con- tributed an interesting account of the Barred-rumped Godwit * Emu, vol, viii., part 3. + ‘* Insectivorous Birds,” Moat From Magazines, &c: 257 (Limosa nove-zealandi@),* which he considers to be the “ greatest migrant in the world.” It is believed that the Godwit breeds in Eastern Siberia and migrates to New Zealand, returning again to its breeding grounds in the north. Mr. Drummond is endeavouring to obtain fuller information and reliable data, and has communicated with scientific men in Russia, China, Japan, Formosa, and other countries along the route which the Godwit is believed to follow. Meanwhile, a mass of valuable informa- tion has been obtained in New Zealand. From Mr. R. H. Matthews, of Kaitaia, north of Auckland, Mr. Drummond has received some notes. The following is from The Lyttelton Times article mentioned above :— . “ He (Mr. Matthews) says the small flocks of Godwits arrive at Kaitaia early in September, and in December they are repre- sented by many thousands. They leave on their outward bound voyages during March and April. According to the Maoris most of the flocks take their departure from Muri Motu, near the North Cape. This, apparently, gave rise to a belief held by many naturalists until last year that the Godwits, when they decided to start out over the ocean, gathered together in countless numbers from all parts of New Zealand at Spirits Bay, close to the North Cape, the same place from which, according to Maori legends, the spirits of the dead took their departure to the other world, below the ocean. There is no doubt that Spirits Bay is one of the places of departure. But Godwits also depart from other places in the far north of New Zealand. An old Moari once told Mr. Mathews that he saw a large flock of Godwits taking their departure from Ran- gaunu, a large bay on the east coast of the northern part of the Auckland province. The flock wheeled and circled, rising higher and higher in the air, until it was nearly out of sight. The members then formed up and darted away in a north-westerly direction. Mr. E. Matthews, who lives at Awanui, at the end of the bay, informed Mr. R. H. Matthews that on one occasion at the end of March, about thirty years ago, while he was riding along the beach towards Waikarikari, west of Puheke, at mid-day, he noticed an unusual appearance. It was a dark patch above high-water mark, and it extended up the slopes of the front line of sand dunes. When he got within easy gun range he saw that it was an immense flock of Godwits, all fast asleep, with the exception of a few which apparently acted as sentinels. Rangaunu harbour, with its wide expanse of sand and mud banks, and its numerous creeks, intersecting and extending far up the extensive mangrove flats, is an ideal feeding and fattening ground. The Godwits pass up and down the harbour with remarkable * This Godwit has been observed in favourable localities throughout Australia and Tasmania and as far south as Campbell Island. —Ebs. 2 58 From Magazines, &c. eae regularity. Soon after ebb-tide they repair to favourite feeding- grounds up the harbour and scatter over the flats covered with karepo, or zostera, where various crustacea abound, and up’ the creeks. As the tide flows and covers the low-lying flats, small flocks, numbering from 200 to 500, which the Maoris call ‘waka kuaka, are seen streaming down the harbour. Later on, the main flock, many thousands strong, in close cuneate formation, head for the Kotiata bank and settle onit. Formerly they went to Otamatea, near the entrance of the harbour, till the rising tide forced them to fly to a ‘puta’ on the Otiaia beach. The word ‘puta’ means a hole, but it is now applied to various favourite haunts and resting places, where the Godwits regularly collect at certain states of the tide, and, owing to natural or artificial cover, enable a sportsman to approach within gun range. The word is also applied to localities inland or at the back of sand dunes where the Godwits seek shelter during heavy gales. In the old days a ‘puta’ that had just been discovered was regarded as the property of the finder. Trespass was followed by severe punishment and sometimes by bloodshed. “Mr. Matthews states that the Godwit was strictly protected in that part of New Zealand by the old-time Maori, but after the death of Popata, about forty-five years ago, the conditions were relaxed, and have not been enforced. The season for taking the Godwit opened after the shark-fishing was over, generally about the time of the full moon in February, high spring tides being necessary for making big bags, especially after the introduction of guns. The birds are always very fat after a wet summer. It is a Maori tradition that they fatten on ‘kohu. Sometimes the flock would be surrounded by men carrying ‘rama,’ or! torches. At the same time swift runners with nets and clubs would rush into the midst of the dazed and confused flock, and many would be killed. The ‘tahuhu’ was a long rope a little thicker than a lead pencil, lightly tanned to make it less conspicuous. It was tightly stretched about one foot from the ground and secured to stout pegs driven in at intervals to keep it at the required height, animportant item. To this rope nooses, numbering 600 to 800 or more, were tied close together, overlapping slightly. Some- times two rows of nooses, one above the other, were tied so that the loop of the upper passed half-way down across the lower. The running part of the lower noose was slightly tied to the standing part of the upper to keep the loop open, but so as to be readily detached when a bird was caught. Another method fora permanent ‘tahuhu’ was used. A number of long, stout poles were erected in the regular track of flight. To these from twelve to fifteen or more ropes were fastened about a foot apart. To these ropes the nooses, made of tanned flax fibre, were tied. Sometimes a more simple method was adopted. A large num- ber of pegs were driven in all about and around the resting Vol. IX. 1910 From Magazines, Se: 259 places regularly visited by the birds. To each peg was tied a noose made of a narrow strip of green flax leaf. Many birds were captured by these methods, and the old-time Maori was kept well supplied with this delicacy. “ Mr Matthews confirms the statements of other correspondents that some of the Godwits miss the annual migration. He says that small flocks may be seen on the beaches all through the winter. The Maoris gave Godwits the general name of ‘ kuaka,’ which is commonly used by Europeans in the Auckland province ; but they divided them into varieties, according to the difference in the plumage. There were the ‘kura, with a red breast; the ‘ karoro, grey, with a lighter or mottled breast; and the ‘ra-kakao,’ or ‘kakao,’ a darker grey, smaller size, and usually in very poor condition. It is somewhat strange, Mr. Matthews adds, that after the birds settle on a beach the ‘ kakao’ occupy positions on the outside and flanks of the main flock.” Reviews. [‘* The Home Life of the Golden Eagle.” Photographed and described by H. B. Macpherson. Witherby and Co. Crown 4to, pp, 45 and 32 plates. 5s. net. | IT is difficult to give too much praise to the perseverance shown by Mr. H. B. Macpherson, as portrayed in his most interesting work, “The Home Life of the Golden Eagle,’ and not only are the different phases of the home life of this noble bird faithfully portrayed in exquisite photographs, but much information gained that could not have been learnt in any other way, and it must have given the author much pleasure watching these shy birds at such close quarters, and quite made up for the cold waiting in damp, cramped quarters. The way the parent birds pluck their prey and divide it before giving it to their young is very interesting. It must have been a keen disappointment to have missed seeing what became of the other young one, as it is still a much debated point how some of the young disappear. The reproductions of the photographs could not be improved upon, and are certainly an object lesson as to how this work can be done, and we strongly recommend this work to our readers, especially as the Golden Eagle is a prototype of the Wedge-tailed Eagle or Eagle-Hawk (Uvroaétus audax) of Australia.—D. LE 5S. [Egyptian Birds. Painted and Described. By Charles Whymper. Adam and Charles Black, London. 20s. net. ] THE author of this handsome and interesting volume of bird lore is well and favourably known as an ornithological artist, and his reputation will not suffer by the present production, “Egyptian Birds,” although it has no claim to scientific notice, should serve as a useful guide to bird-lovers who are fortunate , ~ Emu 260 Reviews. ae eel enough to visit the Nile Valley. There are 51 coloured plates, and brief popular descriptions of no fewer than 356 species of birds. The plates are excellently reproduced, though the colours in some instances are displeasing. They form a charming portrait gallery of Egypt’s avifauna. Perhaps the most artistic are those depicting the Black-and-White King- fisher (Ceryle rudis), Kites in flight, and Buff-back Herons (Ardeola russofa). All the illustrations are from original water- colour drawings. Mr. Whymper, during his visits to Egypt, was given special facilities for obtaining information and carrying out his pleasant task of portraying the bird life of the country. The results he has obtained are deserving of all praise. But if Mr. Whymper is an accomplished artist he has not the gift of writing to an equal degree. There is no magic in his descriptions of the beautiful creatures which his brush has so finely portrayed. Perhaps he did not seek after the style which makes the essays of Burroughs and Hudson so delightful to read. As he says, he wrote the book to aid visitors to the land of the Pharaohs to identify the birds seen, and in this purpose he has succeeded admirably. Here isa sample of the text, picked at random :— “We will spare the reader a detailed menu of this omnivorous bird (the Kite), but all who visit Egypt ought to bless it, as, until some enlightened system of sanitation is adopted, this bird, almost unaided, makes the land possible to live in, or to be visited with any safety or pleasure. If it were exterminated, as the Kites have been in Great Britain, it is almost impossible to exaggerate what would be the dire results to the health of the newcomers to this old Eastern country. Mercifully there seems no sort of chance of its numbers decreasing. Indeed, in 1908 I saw, behind the New Winter Palace Hotel at Luxor, a fiock which certainly ran into hundreds ; two dead donkeys, thrown out behind the walls of the hotel grounds, were the cause of this vast congregation.” The author states that the birds in Egypt are very tame and admit of close inspection. He does not know why this should be so, as the land “teems with foxes, jackals, Kites, Vultures, Eagles, Falcons, and Hawks without end, all with an eye to busi- ness.” And there are hosts of “demon boys ” to harry the wild things. Correspondence. PROTECTION AND PRIORITY. To the Editors of “The Emu.” DEAR Stiks,—Would you kindly inform me if any steps have been taken, or are contemplated, to check the exportation of protected birds from New South Wales and Queensland. I have means of knowing that large numbers of a variety of species are shipped from different ports of the above States Vol. IX. ee Corvespondence. 201 almost every week. The bulk are destined to spend a short and unhappy life in small cages. - The fact has been stated in the public press, both by adver- tisement and news paragraph, that certain islands in Bass Strait have been proclaimed sanctuaries where sea-fowl may (yachting parties willing) breed undisturbed. What I and others would like to ascertain, if possible, is what steps are taken to enforce the proclamation, as the mere fact of the islands being gazetted has no deterrent effect on parties in sailing craft, who, when on a holiday cruise, destroy everything that moves, and call it “sport.” The above stricture does not apply to all yachting parties, but to many. I had ocular demonstration of that of which I speak only last Christmas. The third matter on which I desire to speak is in connection with the proposed A.O.U. “Check List.” As one who has taken up ornithology as a pleasant and instructive hobby to follow in one’s spare moments-—and I think the majority of the members of the A.O.U. do the same—I sincerely hope the committee will not allow their zeal to get the better of their discretion regarding priority. Priority is all very well in its way, but it can be carried too far. In The Emu (vol. vi., p. 28) a short extract is given of some remarks on “Priority in Nomenclature ” by the President of the Bavarian Ornithological Society. Lhe) first “sentence of the extract reads :——“He believed” (runs the report) “that all these changings of long- established names, even when the alteration was justifiable, should be most rigorously guarded against, as the greatest confusion would be the only result.” This is the case in a nut- shell. If my memory serves me right, the senior editor of The Emu has expressed himself in even stronger terms concerning the action of modern makers of ornithological books and hand- lists in raking up the dead and forgotten past, so far as obsolete names are concerned, in search of cheap notoriety. The bulk of ornithological students (using the word in its widest sense) have neither time nor inclination to unlearn much already learnt regarding scientific designations. The nomenclature as em- ployed in the British Museum Catalogue, and on which I pre- sume the 1898 A.A.A.S. “ Vernacular List” was founded, is good enough for most of us, and with which we have become familiar until names once outlandish and strange have become “ familiar in our mouths as household words” almost. If priority were carried to its logical conclusion in everything we should be landed in some queer messes. If Graucalus is to be Coraczna, why not “New Holland” for “ Australia,’ or “Van Diemen’s Land ” for “ Tasmania,” as according to the law of priority the former names should stand? I could multiply instances of reversions, but these illustrations will suffice.—I am, &c., ’ Launceston, 28/1/10. FRANK M. LITTLER. 262 Obituary Notice. | Britt Obituary Notice. FOLLOWING the announcement of the death of Dr. R. Bowdler Sharpe in the last issue of Ze Emu (p. 178), with the publica- tion of a letter he was good enough to forward to the editors, a further notice of that distinguished ornithologist is now given. Dr. Sharpe was present at the meeting of the British Orni- thologists’ Club on the evening of the 16th December last, when he seemed to be in his usual cheerful mood and health. The following day he took to his bed, pneumonia and other com- plications supervened, and he passed away early on the morning of Christmas Day. The following sketch of his ornithological career appeared in the recent Jubilee Supplement of 7%e /bzs (1909) :— “ Richard Bowdler Sharpe was born on the 22nd of Novem- ber, 1847, being the eldest son of Thomas Bowdler Sharpe, a well-known publisher in his day. At the age of six he was sent to Brighton, where his aunt, the widow of the Rev. James Lloyd Wallace, formerly head-master of Sevenoaks Grammar School, had a boys’ school, to be well grounded in Latin and Greek. At nine years of age he was transferred to Peterborough Grammar School, of which his cousin, the Rev. James Wallace, had been appointed head-master after his return from the Crimea, where he had served as an Army-Chaplain. Within a few days of his arrival at Peterborough, Sharpe gained a King’s scholarship, which gave him a free education, while he was also a choir-boy in the Cathedral. He left Peterborough with the Rev. James Wallace, on the appointment of the latter to the head-mastership of Loughborough Grammar School, and studied there for some time, commencing his collection of bird- skins; he had already made a large collection of eggs while at Peterborough. He was afterwards sent, with the object of studying for the army, to a private tutor at Steeple Gidding in Huntingdonshire, the Rector, the Rev. C. Molyneaux, having been a school-fellow of his father’s. Here he remembers having seen the late Lord Lilford, with his Falconer and a full train, hawking on Great Gidding Field. Having no taste for mathe- matics, however, he did little work, but devoted most of his time to bird collecting and taxidermy, making at the same time a considerable collection of insects, and having always a large assortment of living birds. “ His father, who was then living at Cookham, wished the boy to prepare for Oxford, as his mathematical training for the Royal Engineers had been a failure; but the lad thought of nothing but bird-collecting. “His first paper, on the Birds of Cookham and the neigh- bourhood, appeared in the Journal of the High Wycombe Natural History Society, and his collecticn of specimens, made at this time, is in the Natural History Museum. eee a Obituary Notice. 263 “ At last the old gentleman, who was like Gallio and cared for none of these things, looked upon his son as good-for- nothing, and sent him to London—not with the proverbial shilling, but with a sovereign and a letter, which gained him an immediate situation at Messrs. Smith and Sons’, by whom he was always treated most kindly and his natural history tastes encouraged. He afterwards entered the service of the late Mr. Bernard Quaritch, who remained, throughout his life, a most kind and generous friend. “The Library of the Zoological Society having at this time increased to large proportions, it was determined by the Council to appoint a Librarian, and on the recommendation of the late Osbert Salvin and Dr. P. L. Sclater, the post was offered to Sharpe, and accepted by him. By this time he had commenced his first ornithological work, the ‘Monograph of the Kingfishers,’ and, owing to the advantages of the Zoological Society’s Library, he soon finished this book and commenced (with Mr. H. E. Dresser) the ‘ Birds of Europe. In May, 1872, George Robert Gray died, and Sharpe was appointed to succeed him at the British Museum and take charge of the Bird Collection. He entered on his duties on the 11th of September of that year. To write the ‘Catalogue of Birds,’ he was forced to give up the ‘Birds of Europe, which was completed by Mr. Dresser. Of the ‘Catalogue of Birds’ he has written with his own pen thirteen and a half out of the twenty-seven volumes, most of the work being done in his un-official time. One of his most important contributions to Ornithological Science has been the ‘ History of the Bird-Collections in the British Museum,’ a history which occupied two years of his private time to write. “In 1891 he was created an LL.D. of the University of Aberdeen, and in the same year received by an Imperial Decree the great Gold Medal for Science from H.I.M. the Emperor of Austria, the highest award for Science given by that Sovereign. This medal was conferred on the occasion of the Second Ornitho- logical Congress at Budapest, when Dr. Sharpe delivered his presidential address to Section A, on the ‘ Classification of Birds.’ He was also President of Section A at the Third Ornithological Congress at Paris in 1900, and received from the President of the French Republic his appointment as ‘ Officier de I’ Instruction publique’ In 1905 Dr. Sharpe was President of the Fourth Ornithological Congress in London. “ Bowdler Sharpe was the first to conceive the idea of the British Ornithologists’ Club, in 1902, and for some years edited its Bulletin. He is Foreign or Honorary Member of all the principal Ornithological Societies of the world, and has con- tributed a very large number of papers to Zhe Jdzs, as will be seen from the pages of the general subject-index. “ His work has not been limited to the birds of any particular 264 Obituary Notice. , ae country, but those of Africa have always been a favourite subject of investigation with him, while one of his best-known works is his edition of Layard’s ‘ Birds of South Africa.’ ” An Australian appreciation of the deceased ornithologist, by Mr. Tom Carter, of Western Australia, will be read with interest :— “ My acquaintance with the late Dr. R. Bowdler Sharpe dates back to about 1885, when the late Henry Seebohm introduced me to him. He had then recently returned from India, bringing back the famous Hume collections, part of which he showed us then being unpacked. I had the pleasure of meeting him on many subsequent occasions, the last being on 17th November last year, when I lunched and had a chat with him, two days before my return to Australia. He then seemed: well and hearty, and, as he always was, full of enthusiasm and glad to see any ornithologist and learn of anything fresh about birds in any part of the world. He was ofa genial disposition, without any ostentation, and, although he always had an immense amount of work on hand, he would cheerfully put it aside to inspect and discuss any new bird specimen. I have known him rise at an ornithological meeting and speak on behalf of an ornithologist (then long passed away) who had been referred to in a disparaging manner by one present, although his (Sharpe’s) own views did not at all agree with those of the absent one. Dr. Sharpe was always ready to help and encourage any beginner in the often perplexing study of bird-life, and if he (Sharpe) did make a mistake on any point he would willingly admit it. With his unrivalled capacity for work and world-wide mah of birds, his place will indeed be hard to fill.” Besides his wonderful personality, which endeared him to almost everyone he came in contact with, he was a giant at work.. It would occupy about four pages of The Emu, closely printed, to enumerate all his works, but the following may be cited as of most interest to Australian students, namely : — “ Catalogue of Birds.” Of the twenty-seven volumes of this classical reference work he wrote eleven, while he was co-author of two others. “ Handlist of the Genera and Species of Birds,” vols. i—v. “ Monograph of the Birds-of-Paradise and Bower-Birds,” folio, parts i.—viii. “ Report on the Collections of Natural History made in the Antarctic Regions during the Voyage of the Southern Cross: Aves.” “The Birds of New Guinea and the adjacent Papuan Islands, including any New Species that may be discovered in Australia,” folio, parts 13-35 (completed after John Gould’s: death), Vol. IX. Bivd Observers’ Club. 265 rgto ya Bird Observers’ Club. THE monthly meeting of the Club was held on 27th January, at the residence of Mr. A. J. Campbell, Armadale. There was a fair attendance of members, and the host also welcomed as guests Mr. F. L. Whitlock, of Western Australia, Mr. G. J. Broinowski, of Sydney, and Mr. C. C. Brittlebank, of Bacchus Marsh. Mr. G. Dyer, a new member, was also welcomed. Mr. Campbell was voted to the chair. A diploma, awarded to Mr. A. H. E. Mattingley, C.M.Z.S., for his photographs of birds and animals exhibited at the Dresden Exhibition, was displayed, and Mr. Mattingley was heartily congratulated on his distinguished success. The design for a membership card in connection with the “ Gould League of Bird-Lovers ” was submitted to the meeting and approved. The Chairman introduced Mr. Broinowski, who placed before members his suggestions for reissuing his well-known work on “ The Birds of Australia” in a cheap form. He stated that he did not wish to gain financially in the matter, but to help spread a knowledge of native birds among the Australian people. He then gave some interesting reminiscences of his early bird-observing days. Mr. C. F. Cole read a paper on the Satin Bower-Bird (Péclonorhynchus violaceus), in which he described certain plumage phases in the male bird. Mr. Whitlock gave a most interesting anecdotal account of his field work among certain Western Australian birds, including the rare Yellow-spotted Bower-Bird (Chlamydodera guttata), and Mr. F. E. Wilson read a paper written by Mr. L. Chandler and himself on the nesting and other habits of the Helmeted Honey-eater (Ptilotts casstdix). The Chairman, in responding to the vote of thanks accorded him, said that not only had he been delighted to entertain members of the Club, but he regarded the meeting as being in some way historical, the final design for the “Gould League” membership card having been adopted that evening. Notes and Notices. ~ FOR SALE.—A lady desires to part with her copy (in one volume) of Campbell’s “Nests and Eggs of Australian Birds.” Volume in good order. Price £3. Apply, Editors Amzu. THANKS.—The Council and members of the A.O.U. are ereatly indebted to Mr. H. L. White, of Belltrees,.New South Wales, for his generosity in defraying the expense of engraving, by Messrs. Patterson, Shugg and Co,, the 12 illustrative blocks which accompany Mr. Whitlock’s article. “ | HAVE been successful in obtaining more eggs of the Tooth- billed Bower-Bird (Scenopeetes dentirostris) from North Queens- land ; they were taken by Frizelle, who accompanied Jackson in 1908. Jackson’s statement about the eggs being hard to find has been fully proved by Frizelle, who watched the birds for months, and found the nest only after searching the tops of dozens of trees near where he had located the birds. In each case the clutch of eggs was accompanied by the nest, and a sworn declaration by a witness to the taking. The eggs vary very slightly from the type set, and are readily distinguished from those of the Spotted Cat-Bird (4//urewdus maculosus) when placed together.”—H. L. WHITE. Belltrees (N.S.W.) 266 Notes and Notices. AE FIFTH INTERNATIONAL ORNITHOLOGICAL CONGRESS.—The committee of the Fifth International Ornithological Congress, to be held in Berlin from 30th May to 4th June, rgto, invites A.O.U. members to attend. It is under the presidency of Dr. Reichenow, as arranged at the London Congress, 1905. The fee for membership is 41, which entitles members to actively engage in discussion at the Congress and receive a copy of the Transactions. Ladies may also become members by paying 41. Ladies may _ receive all the privileges of membership for Ios, except a copy of the deliberations. If any member desires to contribute papers he should give the title and other particulars as soon as possible. Official languages are German, English, French, and Italian. Meetings will take place during the Congress in sections, viz.— Anatomy and Paleontology, Systematic and Geographic Dis- tribution, Biology and Oology, Bird Protection, Acclimatization and Treatment, Breeding and Study of Domestic Birds. Mr. Gregory M. Mathews, F.L.S., &c., will officially represent the A:O.U. A CERTIFICATE.—I hereby certify that I have known Mr. G. M. Mathews, a member of the British Ornithologists’ Union, for five years, during which period he has been a constant worker in this Museum, devoting his time to the study of Australian ornithology. I have for some time been aware that it was his intention to write a book on “ The Birds of Australia.” This will supply a much-felt want, Gould’s work being quite out of date.* Mr. Mathews’ first volume is now almost finished, and he has entered into an agreement with Messrs. Witherby and Co., 326 High Holborn, W.C., to publish his forthcoming work. Under these circumstances, I venture to hope that you may be willing to assist him in every possible way with the loan of specimens or otherwise, so that his work may be carried out under the most favourable circumstances.—W. R. OGILVIE GRANT. British Museum (Nat. Hist.), South Kensington, 20th Dec., 1909. [Mr. Mathews has made an admirable commence- ment with his self-imposed gigantic task. It is understood that the plates for Part I. are almost, if not already, complete. By working assiduously in his library, and by a visit to the Continent, Mr. Mathews has succeeded in getting figures of the four Australian Emus—namely, Dromeus nove-hollandia, D. diemenensis, D. parvulus, and D. minor ; the three last, of course, are unfortunately extinct. This will be the first occasion of all being figured together.—EDsS. ] * Probably Mr. Ogilvie Grant refers to portions of Gould’s letterpress only— Gould’s great pictures will never be ‘‘ out of date.”-——Eps, Vol. IX. i u Tae kA Zio Notes and Notices. 267 FROM THE MINUTES OF THE B.O.C., 17/10/09 :— Mr. G. M. MATHEws described the following new sub-species of Australian birds :— CALAMANTHUS HOWE, sub-sp. n. Adult female.——This form seems to be intermediate between C. montanellus, Milligan, and C. campestris, Gould. From the former it differs in having the ear coverts and crown of the head reddish ; from the latter in having a longer bill, the head less rufous, and a much more pronounced brown streak on the feathers of the back. Total length, 4.8 inches; culmen, 0.5 ; wing, 2.1; tail, 2.2; tarsus, 0.8. Haé.—Kow Plains, Victoria. This sub-species is named in honour of the collector, Mr. Frank Howe, of Melbourne. MELITHREPTUS WHITLOCKI, sub-sp. n. A dult.—Differs from M7. chloropsts, Gould, in having the bare skin round the eye white both in summer and winter. Hab.—Wilson’s Inlet, Western Australia. This sub-species is named in honour of the collector, Mr. F. L. Whitlock. Mr. MATHEWS further remarked: As the “ Conspectus Psittacorum ” of Kuhl was published in 1820 and volume xiii. of the “ Transactions of the Linnean Society” did not appear till 1821, the birds named by Kuhl in the former volume must take precedence over those described by Temminck in the latter publication. The following changes will affect certain Aus- tralian birds :— Licmetis nasica, Temm., will become L. fenwirvostris, Kuhl, op. cit., p: 88. Platycercus flaviveniris, Temm., will become P. browni, Kuhl, op. Ct. ps 50. Platycercus brownt, Temm., will become P. venustus, Kuhl, op. cit., ps2 Neophema venusta, Temm., will become N. chrysostomus, Kuhl, op: cit., p. 50. —Bulletin B.O.C., No. CLV. Publications Received. Auk, The, XXVI., Nos. 2,3, 4. Australian Naturalist, The, I., Part 15; I1., Part r. Avicultural Magazine, The, VII., Nos. 4-12; VII., Series Nos. 1-4, 5-8. Bird-Lore, X., Nos. 1-6; XI., Nos. 1-6; XII., No. i. a el OR DE ge a Se eR MERRY Ug os ve eS Is ee 268 Publications Received. [or ager British Birds, W1., Parts 1-8. Bulletin of British Ornithologists’ Club, XXIV., 1g09. Condor, XI., No. 3, 1909. Geelong Naturalist, 1V., Nos. 1, 2 Hawkesbury eee College Journal, The, V1., Parts 1-12 ; VWiieeParts a2 Hull, AR, een Reprint, Birds of Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands. Ibis, The, I1., Jubilee Supplement; III., Nos. 1-12. Linnean Society N.S.W., Proceedings of, Nos. 133-134, Parts 3, 4, XXXIV., Ig09. . List of the Birds of Australia. Compiled by A. F. Basset Hull. Mack, Amy E., A Bush Calendar. Macpherson, H. B., Home of the Golden Eagle. Mearns, Edgar A., Additions to List of Philippine Birds. National Association of Audubon Societies. The Horrors of the Plume Trade. The Sharp- onued Hawk. How our Birds Spend the Winter. The Bobolink. Proceedings of Californian Academy of Sciences, I11., 1909. Proceedings Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, LX1., 1909, Part I. Producers’ Review of Western Australia. Record and Reviews of Mines of South Australia, 1909. Records of Canterbury Museum, I., No. 2. Royal Society of Victoria, Proceedings, XXII., Parts I, 2. Smithsonian Institute, Annual Report, 1907, 1908. South African pee Union, The Journal of the, V., No. Pi Popular Bulletin, No. 2 Ticehurst, N. F., Birds of Kent, A History of. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Open Seasons for Game in U.S.A. and Canada. Verhandlungen der Ormithologischen Gesellschaft in Bayern, 1908 ; May-—August, 1909 ; Sept.—Dec., 1909. Victorian Naturalist, The, XXVI., Nos. 9-11. Whymper, Charles, Egyptian Birds. Zoologist, The, XIII., Nos. 149-155; XIV., Nos. 157, 158. ‘Supplement to The Emu — Vol. IX. R. Friedlinder & Sohn, Buchhandlung, Berlin N.W. 6. _ The Avifauna of Laysan and the Neighbouring Islands: with a complete History to date of the Birds of the Hawaiian Possessions by The Hon. Walter Rothschild, Ph. D. 4 Tilustrated with coloured and black plates by Messrs. Keulemans and Frohawk, and plates from photographs, showing bird-life and scenery. [55 coloured, 20 collotype and 8 lithographic plates.] 1893 —1900. XX and 341 pages letterpress and 83 plates. Imperial-Quarto. Price 255 Mark [= ¥ 1212 = Fr. 318.75]. Contents: Preface. Literature referring to the Birds of the Hawaiian Islands. — On the origin and distribution of the Hawaiian Avifauna. List of plates. — *he Island of Laysan. — List and description of the species of Birds from jaysan and the neighbouring islands. — Résumé of Palmer’s Diary (Jan. 1891— \ug. 1893). — History of the Birds of the Hawaiian Islands. — List of 3irds introduced into the Sandwich Islands. —- Birds erroneously reporied to occur mn the Sandwich Islands. — Additions, Supplements and Corrections. — Complete ist of the Birds known from the Hawaiian Possessions. — Lists of the Birds from he various islands. — Index. Scattered about in a north-westerly direction from the Sandwich Islands are 4 number of small islands, rocks and reefs, namely: Necker Isle, French Frigate Shoals, Gardner Island, Maro Reef, Lisiansky, Laysan, or Moller Island, and some thers. Although Ornithologists have had their eyes on these islands for a long ‘ime, they had not been trodden by the foot of any Ornithologist until the hon. Walter Rothschild sent his collectors to explore them. Sir W. Rothschild’s men have been actively engaged for several years in the islands of the Hawaiian Ar- shipelago and many species of birds, new to science, have been discovered by them ; these birds, with others, are figured here in a series of 55 hand-coloured plates delineated by Mr. J. G. Keulemans and Mr. F. W. Frohawk. In addition a most interesting series of collotype photographs, showing various phases of bird -life and landscape, is added. The edition of the work was limited to 250 copies only. Little having been done as yet for its distribution we have now been entrusted with the sale of the remaining copies. Fo Verlag von R. Friedlinder & Sohn in Berlin N.W. 6. A. B. Meyer and L. W. Wiglesworth The Birds of Celebes the Neighbouring Islands. 2 volumes, comprising 42 Plates carefully coloured by hand (Figures of 77 species), 3 plain Plates (Tails of 4 species) and 7 coloured Maps [8 Maps: Geographical Distribution of Loriculus, Cacatua, Bucrerotidae in the Indian Archi-- pelago — 1 Map of Celebes — 1 Map of Celebes and neighbouring islands —- 2 Meteorological Maps (Winds and Rains of the Indian Archipelago)] with letter- press of XXXII, 130 and 962 pages. 1898. In Royal Quarto. Price 240 Mark [= 12 & = fres. 800.] 2 Ee ow Le Sold separately: The Introduction. XXXII and 120 pages, in Royal-Quarto. M. 20,— Contents: Preface. — Systematic Index [of species]. — List of Plates. — List of Maps. — Alphabetical list of Abbreviations. — Notanda et Corrigenda. — In- troduction: Travel and Literature. Seasons and Winds in the Kast Indian Archipelago. Migration in the East Indian Archipelago. Variation. Geographical Distribution. — Systematic Part. — Alphabetical Index [of species]. i After more than 6 years’ incessant labour of both the authors this grand work has been completed. | The authors could avail themselves not only of the rich collections of the Dresden Museum, but also of the recent ornithological results obtained by the Drs. P. and F. Sarasin and many other travellers. The Ornithological Fauna of the islands round Celebes till the Talaut Islands in the North, the Sula Islands in the East, and the Djampea Group in the South is incor- porated in this work. The ‘Birds of Celebes’ thus form a western continuation of Count T. Salvya- dori’s famous “Ornitologia della Papuasia e delle Molucche». We need not dwell upon the scientific value of Meyer-Wiglesworth’s work. For the Explorer in the East Indian Archipelago, for the Zoologist devoted to the problems of animal distribution and variation, for every serious Ornithologist it will be simply indispensable. As to the plates the name of the draughtsman and painter is sufficient to garantee their perfection, and every possible pain in their excecution has been taken to render them truthful. The 42 coloured Plates represent 77 species, none of which have as yet been figured. 38 of the figures are species of the order Accipitres, 4 Strix, 3 Psittaci, 6 Coraciae, 3 Macrochires, 47 Passeres, 6 Columbae, 2 Gallinae, 4 Ralli, 2 Ciconiiformes. The plates have been drawn after the original specimens and are coloured by hand by the well known artist Bruno Geissler of the Dresden Museum. R. Friedlinder & Sohn in Berlin N.W. 6. — In unserm Verlage erscheint: | Das Tierreich. | Kine Zusammenstellung und Kennzeichnung der rezenten 5 Tierformen. Begriindet von der Deutschen Zoologischen Gesellschaft. Im Auftrage der Konigl, Preuss, Akademie der Wissenschaften zu Berlin herausgegeben von Franz Hilhard Schulze. Bis jetzt wurden ausgegeben: Lieferung 1—23 und Probelieferung, 1897—1906. Subscriptionspreis M. 245,60. Von der Abteilung Aves sind erschienen: Redakteur: A. Reichenow. ieferung 4: Podargidae, Caprimulgidae und Macropterygidae. Bearbeitet von KE. Hartert (Tring). 4897. gr. 8. 4106 Seiten mit 46 Abbildungen und 4 Beilage (Terminologie des Vogelkérpers von A. Reichenow, & Seiten | mit 4 Abbildung). M. 7,— eferung @: Paradiseidae. Bearbeitet von The Hon. W. Rothschild. 1898. er. 8. 58 Seiten mit 145 Abbildungen. M. 3,60 Lieferung 9: Trochilidae. Bearbeitet von E. Hartert (Tring). 1900. gr. 8. 263 Seiten mit 34 Abbildungen. M. 16,— Lieferung 15: Zosteropidae. Bearbeitet von 0. Finsch (Leiden). 1904. gr. 8. 69 Seiten mit 52 Abbildungen. M. 4,80 Lieferung 18: Paridae, Sittidae und Certhiidae. Bearbeitet von C. E. Hellmayr | (Miinchen). 41903. gr. 8. 286 Seiten mit 76 Abbildungen. M. 16,— a Fiir Subskribenten auf das ganze Werk ermassigen sich die Preise um ein Viertel. —= Zu ermissigtem Preise liefern wir: Dr. A. B. Meyer Abbildungen von Vogelskeletten. 2 Bande in 24 Lieferungen. XII und 71, XXI und 120 Seiten mit 241 Lichtdrucktafeln. Gross-Quart. 1879—1898. Statt 360 Mark Ermissigter Preis M. 240,—. Aeusserst anerkennende Besprechungen dieses Prachtwerkes erschienen in: Mitteilungen des Ornithologischen Vereins Wien, Journal fiir Ornithologie, Zeitschrift fiir gesamte Ornithologie, Blatter fir Gefligelzucht, Nature (London), Prof. Firbringer, Unter- suchungen zur Morphologie und Systematik der Vigel. — Probe- tafeln stehen auf Wunsch zur Verfiigung. oo a TT Verlag von R. Friedlinder & Sohn, Berlin N.W. 6. _ T. Salvadori Ornitologia della Papuasia e delle Molucche. 3 volumi con 3 Supplementi, 1925 pagine in-4. grande. 4880—94, Preis 140 Mark A. Reiechenow und F. Dahl Die Vogel der Bismarck-Inseln. Das Leben der Vogel auf den Bismarck-Inseln. 223 Seiten, Lexicon-Octav, mit 4 colorirten Tafel, 4 Karte und Textabbildungen, 1899 Preis 9 Mark. q A. B. Meyer Ueber Vogel von Neu Guinea und Neu Britannien. 47 Seiten gross-4. 41892. — Preis Mark 2,40. Neuer Beitrag zur Kenntniss der Vogelfauna von Kaiser Wilhelmsland. _ besonders vom Huongolfe nebst Bemerkungen iiber andere papuanische Végel, und einer Liste aller bisher von Kaiser Wilhelmsland registrirten. 33 Seiten gross-4. mit 4 Karte (vom Huongolfe) und 4 Tafel in Lichtdruck (Eier-Abbildungen). 41893. — Preis 8 Mark. Ueber das Ei einer unbekannten Chlamydodera von Deutsch Neu Guinea. 2 Seiten gross-4. mtt 4 colorirten Tafel. 41895. — Preis 3 Mark. Zwei neue Paradiesvogel. . 44 Seiten gross-4. mit 17 Figuren im Text und 2 colorirten Tafeln. 4895. Preis 8 Mark. Neue Vogel aus dem ostindischen Archipel. & Seiten gross-4. mit 4 Textfigur und ‘4 colorirten Tafel. 1894. — Preis Mark 4,50 A. B. Meyer und L. W. Wiglesworth Neue Vogel von Celebes. 3 Seiten gross-4 4894. — Preis Mark 4,50. Bericht tiber die von den Herren P. u. F. Sarasin in Nord-Celebes gesammelten Vogel. 20 Seiten gross-4, 41895. — Preis 3 Mark, Kine zweite Sammlung von Vogeln von den Talaut Inseln. 9 Seiten gross-4. 4895. — Preis 2 Mark. Eine Vogelsammlung von Nordost-Celebes und den Inseln Peling und Banggai. 20 Seiten gross-4. mit 4 Karte. 4896. — Preis 5 Mark. Bericht tuber die 5.—7.Vogelsammlung der Herren P. u. F. Sarasin aus Celebes. 46 Seiten gross-4. 4896. — Preis 3 Mark. - . L. W. Wiglesworth Aves Polynesiae. A Catalogue of Birds of the Polynesian Subregion (not including the Sandwich islands) X and 92 pages, Imp.-4. 1892. — Preis 44 Mark. * uy AUSTRALASIAN ORNITHOLOGISTS’ UNION. CO-PATRONS: | Their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales. OFFICE-BEARERS : President: Mr. A. J. CAMPBELL, Co. Mem. B.O,U. fMr. J. W. MELLOR. (Mr. ROBERT HALL, C.M.ZS. Hon. Secretary: Mr. H. W. WILSON. (c/o Zoological Gardens, Melbourne. | Private Address—1os5 Drummond Street, Carlton, Victoria ) Hon. Treasurer: Mr. J. A. ROSS. (Address—Crown Solicitor’s Office, Lonsdale St., Melbourne.) Hon. Librarian: Mr. A. H. E. MATTINGLEY, C.M.Z.S. Press Correspondent: Mr. D. Le SOUEF, C.M.Z.S. (Mr. A. J. CAMPBELL, Cor. Mem. B.O.U. \Mr. CHARLES BARRETT. Members of Council: Carr. S. A. WHITE (South Australia), Mr. L. HARRISON (New South Wales), SURGEON-COLONEL C, S. RYAN (Victoria), Mr. W. M‘ILWRAITH (Queensland), Mr. C. PRICE CONIGRAVE, F.R.G.S. (Western Australia). | New Zealand (vacant). Vice=Presidents:.- Editors of The Emu OBJECTS, &c.- - - SHE objects of the Society are the advancement and popularization of the Science of Ornithology, the protection of useful and ornamental avifauna, and the publication of a magazine called The Emu. The business of the Society shall be conducted by a Council. con- sisting of a President, two Vice-Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer, Librarian, Editors of Ze Emu, and six members ; each office-bearer and member of the Council shall retire at the end of each financial year, but shall be eligible for re-election. The Annual Meeting shall be held in one or other of the principal towns of the different States, such State to be decided at the previous Annual Meeting. Every member shall be required to pay an annual subscription of fifteen shillings, due on the first of July each year. (The usual exchange to be added to Foreign, Interstate and Country cheques, drafts, &c.) The offices of the Society shall be at the office of the Hon. Secretary of the Society for the time being, or at such other place as the Council may appoint. 4 ¥ ADVERTISEMENTS. 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