What bird is that? A guide to the birds of Australia

MUSEUM OF VICTORIA

WHAT BIRD IS THAT?

Plate I

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BIRDS (EXCLUDING SEA-BIRDS)

WHAT BIRD IS THAT?

A GUIDE TO THE BIRDS
OF AUSTRALIA

By

NEVILLE W. CAYLEY, F.R.Z.S.

Vice-President of the Royal Zoological Society of New South
Wales ; Member of the British Ornithologists’ Union and
Member of the Royal Australasian Ornithologists’ Union

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ILLUSTRATED BY THE AUTHOR £

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ANGUS AND ROBERTSON LTD
SYDNEY :: LONDON
1947

Set up, printed and bound
in Australia by
Halstead Press Pty Limited,
9-19 Nickson Street, Sydney
194 7

Registered in Australia for
transmission through the
post as a book

First Edition - - - - December

Second Edition December

Third Edition ------ April

Fourth Edition - - - - January

Fifth Edition May

Sixth Edition ----- August

Seventh Edition - - - - August
Eighth Edition ------ July

Ninth Edition ------ April

Tenth Edition ------ July

Eleventh Edition - - - - August
Twelfth Edition ------ July

1981

1981

1932

1938
1985

193 7

1939
191,0

1943

1944
1946

194 V

TO MY FATHER

FOREWORD

The Gould League of Bird Lovers of New South Wales esteem it a privilege
to sponsor What Bird is That f This book will be a permanent and beauti-
ful memorial to the League's “coming of age,” for the League was estab-
lished on 22 October 1910, at Wellington, with Mr Walter Finigan and
the late Mr Edward Webster as its foundation members. History was
made that day !

The book will also have high educational and patriotic value : educational,
in that all who so desire may become intimately acquainted with the many
and beautiful native birds that throng our bushland ; patriotic, that by virtue
of such knowledge, love for our feathered friends may deepen and enrich
love of country.

“What bird is that?” No question is more frequently on the lips of
bush lovers. It may be occasioned by the bird on the wing, or on the tree
in quiet contemplation, or by the lilt of a song. No question could be more
spontaneous.

What Bird is That ? is the most comprehensive and informative bird
book published in the Commonwealth — if not in the world. The coloured
plates are a triumph not only of the genius and imagination of the artist—
our own Neville Cayley on whom has fallen so fittingly the mantle of his
famous father — but also of the block-maker's and printer's art. The pub-
lishers have done nothing finer of its kind.

The life-like portrayals of our feathered friends, together with the
succinct but compendious descriptive information, will place within easy reach
of the bird lover, a most valuable vade mecum of bird and bush lore for out
of doors as well as a thing of beauty for the library.

Department of Education ,
Sydney.

*

PREFACE

The purpose of this volume is to assist and encourage those nature-lovers
who desire to gain a more intimate knowledge of our birds. No attempt has
been made to arrange the species according to a technical classification. They
have been, for the most part, grouped in habitats.

In planning the arrangement of the birds several factors in addition
to habitat had to be considered — always having in view the simplest means
of identification. Thus, it was deemed advisable to keep all the Parrots
and Cockatoos together, regardless of habitat. Even a beginner recognizes
a parrot, no matter what the species. Other well-known families are simi-
larly treated.

The coloured reproductions of the drawings eliminate the necessity for
colour descriptions of plumage. With the exception of the Eyrean Grass-
wren, all the drawings were made from specimens in museums or in private
collections. In most cases, the figures of indigenous species are from birds
taken in type localities.

It has been the good fortune of the author to ramble over much of this
interesting country of ours, and in so doing, to acquire useful field knowledge
concerning some hundreds of species. This, together with information he
has gathered from standard works and other sources, is given in a con-
densed form.

The author owes a special debt of gratitude to Mr Keith A. Hindwood,
R.A.O.U., Hon. Ornithologist to the Australian Museum, Sydney, for his
untiring help throughout the production of the work. He is also grateful
for co-operation and assistance to Mr P. A. Gilbert, a past Chairman of the
Ornithological Section of the Royal Zoological Society of New South
Wales; to Mr Tom Iredale, F.R.Z.S., Chairman of the Ornithological
Section of the Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales ; to Mr A. F.
Basset Hull, F.R.Z.S., Editor of the Australian Zoologist , a past President
of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, the Royal Zoological Society
of New South Wales, and the Royal Australasian Ornithologists’ Union;
to Mr Charles Bryant, R.A.O.U., Editor of the Emu; to Dr W. D. K. Mac-
Gillivray, C.F.A.O.U., a past President of the Royal Australasian Orni-
thologists’ Union ; to Miss Doris Chadwick, B.A., Editress, School Magazine ;
and to Mr W. W. Froggatt, F.R.Z.S., President of the Naturalists’ Society
of New South Wales, a past President of the Linnean Society of New South
Wales, and the Royal Zoological Society of New South Wales.

He also wishes to thank the President and Members of Council of the

X

PREFACE

Gould League of Bird Lovers of New South Wales for kindly sponsoring
the work; the Trustees of the Australian Museum, Sydney, the National
Museum, Melbourne, the Adelaide Museum, and the Brisbane Museum, for
the loan of specimens in their collections ; and the members of their respective
staffs for personal help willingly rendered.

In preparing this work the following publications have been consulted;
Gould (John), The Birds of Australia , 7 vols., 1840-1848, and Supplement ,
1869; Gould (John), Handbook to the Birds of Australia , 2 vols., 1865;
Hall (Robert), A Key to the Birds of Australia and Tasmania , 1899;
Campbell (A. J.), Nests and Eggs of Australian Birds , 1901 ; North (A. J.),
Nests and Eggs of Birds found Breeding in Australia and Tasmania , 4 vols.,
1901-1914; Mathews (Gregory M.), The Birds of Australia , 12 vols.,
1910-1927; Mathews and Iredale, A Manual of the Birds of Australia,
vol. i, 1921 ; Leach (J. A.), An Australian Bird Book, seventh edition, 1929;
Alexander (W. B.), Birds of the Ocean, 1928; The Official Checklist of the
Birds of Australia, second edition, 1926 (issued by the Royal Australian
Ornithologists’ Union) ; and the Emu (Official Journal of the Royal Orni-
thologists’ Union).

Bacon & Co. Ltd have made the engravings, and Halstead Press Pty Ltd
have printed them with their accustomed skill and care.

N. W. C.

CONTENTS

THE GOULD LEAGUE OP BIRD LOVERS OF NEW SOUTH WALES
INTRODUCTION ---------

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BIRDS -------

FOREST-FREQUENTING BIRDS -

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS AND OPEN COUNTRY - - - -

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS -

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SHORE ------

APPENDIX: BIRDS INTRODUCED AND ESTABLISHED IN AUSTRALIA
INDEX ----------

xv

xvii

1

7

165

217

251

289

295

I

PLATE

I

II

III

IV
V

VI

VII

VIII

IX

X

XI

XII

XIII

XIV
XV

XVI

XVII

XVIII

XIX

XX

XXI

XXII

XXIII

LIST OF PLATES

PAGE

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BIRDS (Excluding Sea-Birds) Frontispiece

FOREST-FREQUENTING BIRDS
BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS
BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS
BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS -
NOCTURNAL BIRDS --------

MOUND-BUILDING BIRDS

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST (Some Permanent Residents)
BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST (Some Migrants)

SOME HONEY-EATERS OF THE OPEN FOREST
GROUND-FEEDING PIGEONS AND DOVES
BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE -
BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE -
BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE -
BIRDS OF THE TREE-TRUNKS AND BRANCHES

SOME BIRDS OF THE SCRUB-LANDS

BIRDS OF THE FOREST BORDERS AND GRASS-LANDS -
PARROTS AND COCKATOOS OF THE FOREST-LANDS -
PARROTS OF THE OPEN FOREST AND SCRUB-LANDS -
PARROTS OF THE TREE-TOPS AND OPEN SPACES -
SOME BIRDS OF THE MANGROVES

10

16

24

30

38

42

54

58

62

74

80

88

92

102

108

118

122

128

136

142

154

160

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS AND OPEN COUNTRY

XXIV SOME BIRDS OF THE HEATH AND UNDERGROWTH - - 168

XXV BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS ------- 176

XXVI FAIRY WRENS OF THE HEATH AND SHRUBS - - - - 184

XIV

LIST OF PLATES

XXVII

XXVIII

XXIX

XXX

SOME BIRDS OF THE AIR AND OPEN SPACES -
BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SHORE

188

198

206

214

XXXI

BIRDS

OF

THE

LAKES,

STREAMS,

AND

SWAMPS -

-

218

XXXII

BIRDS

OF

THE

LAKES,

STREAMS,

AND

SWAMPS -

-

230

XXXIII

BIRDS

OF

THE

LAKES,

STREAMS,

AND

SWAMPS -

-

248

XXXIV

BIRDS

OF

THE

SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

-

-

-

254

XXXV

BIRDS

OF

THE

OCEAN

AND SEASHORE -

-

-

-

272

XXXVI

BIRDS

OF

THE

OCEAN

AND SEASHORE -

_

-

-

280

OTHER ILLUSTRATIONS

A TYPICAL BRUSH 28

OPEN FOREST COUNTRY .--44

PINE SCRUB 124

MALLEE SCRUB 124

MANGROVES 140

MANGROVE SWAMP 140

HEATH -LANDS 192

HEATH

PLAIN COUNTRY 209

DESERT COUNTRY 200

SWAMP AND REED-BED 236

TYPICAL STREAM 236

AN OCEAN HOME OF SEA-BIRDS 252

SEASHORE HOME OF WADERS 252

THE GOULD LEAGUE OF BIRD LOVERS
OF NEW SOUTH WALES

“Education is more potent than legislation in the matter of bird preservation.”

—The League's Watchword .

Twenty-one years ago two men stood talking in the playground of the
Public School at Wellington. They were visionaries with the faith of
visionaries.

The younger showed the other a membership certificate of the Victorian
Gould League of Bird Lovers. The elder said: “We will send this movement
through the schools of New South Wales!” The speaker was Edward
Webster the Head Master: the other was Walter Finigan his assistant.
Boastful words ! But those two visionaries had the faith that can move
more than mountains.

How was it to be done? Almost at once a companion spirit, with an
intense love of nature, was found in their Chief Inspector — James Dawson,
M.A. — and he was soon to be in Wellington.

On the Saturday morning, 22 October 1910, following Mr Dawson's
visit, a meeting was held and the following resolution was carried :

That an Association be formed known as the New South Wales Gould League of Bird
Lovers ; that those interested enrol themselves as members and form a provisional
committee with power to add ; that a provisional subscription of Is. be paid by those
joining for the purpose of defraying cost of stationery and postage; that Messrs
Morgan, Finigan, and the mover (E. Webster) be elected as provisional executive for
the purpose of propaganda ; and that Mr Finigan be secretary pro tem.

Thus, the first branch of the Gould League of Bird Lovers of New
South Wales, with a membership of twenty-three, was formed in that country
town. The Chief Inspector of Schools was asked to become President and
before the end of the year Bird Day was established in the schools of the
Wellington district.

Later, at a meeting in the Sydney Girls' High School, on Wednesday,
21 December 1910, the League was established as a State organization with
Mr James Dawson as President. Its objects were declared to be:

1. To protect all birds except those that are noxious.

2. To prevent the unnecessary collection of wild birds’ eggs.

3. To disseminate knowledge regarding our birds and to help members, teachers, and
others to identify them.

4. To secure the general use of one common name for each bird.

XVI

GOULD LEAGUE OF BIRD LOVERS

5. To cultivate a more friendly attitude towards birds by fostering an intelligent interest
in them and their habits.

6. To encourage the formation of bird sanctuaries.

Rules were compiled, a scheme of work outlined, and a certificate was
designed and issued to members. This certificate, tinted in green and illus-
trated with drawings of birds, bore the following Bird Lover’s Pledge to
be signed by members :

“I hereby promise to protect all birds except those that are noxious, and to refrain from
the unnecessary collection of wild birds’ eggs.”

Since then the League has spread and flourished, till to-day it is one of
the powers for good in the land, with a membership of six hundred thousand.
Bird Day has become one of our annual red-letter days. Literary com-
petitions and Bird-call competitions express and keep alive the interest and
enthusiasm of members.

Planted in a country school, the Gould League’s roots have spread to
every school in the State, and from those schools and the idealism of their
teachers, mainly, the Gould League has drawn its inspiration and its strength.
A Bird-life Supplement to the Education Gazette, containing bird photo-
graphs and information on the study of bird-life, was issued in October 1911
to celebrate Bird Day ; and that good work has been continued from year to
year. No finer thing has come out of our schools than this league of Bird
Lovers.

Among those whom the League delight to honour three especially are
acclaimed ; the young idealist who sowed the seed, the older idealist who with
him nurtured the young plant, and another whose care for it in later years
has been rewarded by a tree in whose branches the birds of our land flourish
in comparative peace and safety.

One takes off one’s hat to Walter Finigan, Edward Webster, and Harold
Wynne Hamilton.

INTRODUCTION

xvii

INTRODUCTION

Birds express all that is beautiful, joyous, and free in nature. They delight
our eyes, charm our ears, quicken our imagination, and through association
with the bushland inspire us with a profound love of country.

What visions of freedom and joy come to us when we see a flock of
Scarlet Honey-eaters feeding among the blossoms of a tea-tree; a Spinebill
sipping nectar from a native fuchsia ; a Blue Wren moving among the golden
beauty of a wattle-tree; or Silver Gulls flying lazily above the limpid blue
waters of our harbours? What pleasure is ours when we hear the joyous
carefree carolling of Magpies at dawn ; the springtime song of the Grey
Thrush; the wonderful song mimicry of the Lyretail, or a Song-lark soaring
heavenwards filling the air with its melody.

Nature study has developed enormously during the past few years,
more particularly that branch devoted to birds.

The idea is gradually being discarded, that, to study birds one had to
make a collection of skins or eggs. Nowadays the camera has displaced the
gun, and the photographic album, the skin and egg cabinet. The collection
and preservation of specimens is essential to a complete knowledge of birds,
as one must handle a definite object before its structure and colour can
be studied correctly. This material is always available to students in museums
— being placed there for that purpose. Students are therefore advised to
visit these institutions, where every facility is offered for the study of species
observed in the field.

There is an art in studying birds in the field. For instance, observations
will be more successful in the early morning or towards evening, than if made
during the midday period. In the morning birds are particularly active
searching for food after the night’s rest: towards evening they are again
active seeking food and roosting-sites.

Birds may be found in almost any type of country; rain forests and
open forests, however, offer the greatest variety. There they may be
observed on the ground, on the tree-trunks, or among the foliage, favoured
haunts being the borders of more open areas of the scrub. In the denser
parts they are difficult to observe, as they keep to the upper outer foliage
of the tall trees. Heath-lands also offer a wealth of bird-life. Here an
observer’s task is considerably lightened by the open nature of the vegetation.
Belts of timber on the margins of streams, and isolated clumps of trees dotted
over plains or cleared areas will amply repay investigation. Birds of the
swamps and reed-beds are habitually shy and test the observer’s patience and
ingenuity.

The bird-student is advised to keep detailed lists of the birds of
his locality or other areas he may be in the habit of visiting. These special
districts will, of course, be divided into habitats. Thus he is enabled to

B

INTRODUCTION

xviii

group the species according to their environment — an important rule.
Such record of observations spread over several years will give a good
indication of the movements of the different species; and when used in
conjunction with records from other districts will be of great assistance in
determining the distribution of species throughout the year.

The first essential of any up-to-date field-observer’s equipment is a pair
of good field-glasses, by their means he is able to bring within close range
even the most timid birds.

A pocket-book is another necessity. Field-notes should include date and
locality, feeding-habits, call-notes or song, composition and situation of
nest, descriptions of eggs and number in clutch, and plumage of fledgelings
(as well as the various changes to adult plumage). These particulars should
be recorded “on the spot” and later transferred to a loose-leaf book, or to
folders devoted to the particular species.

The observer should remember that drab-coloured clothing is much
more inconspicuous in the field than bright or light-coloured, and has a less
disturbing effect on birds. Nests out of reach may be investigated with the
aid of a mirror tilted and affixed to the end of a long stick. A mirror is also
useful in reflecting light into dark holes and similar places used as nesting-
sites.

A brief description of the habitats mentioned in the text may be useful.

Brushes and Big Scrubs . Dense vegetation of the rain-forest type;
generally very tall trees with luxuriant top foliage, creepers, palms, and
abundant undergrowth, particularly along the watercourses and near the
borders. Interspersed are true rain-forest zones restricted to moist gullies
and regions of a higher rainfall. Known as “scrub” in Queensland, and
“brush” and “big scrub” in New South Wales.

Open Forest. An even growth of tall trees with a scanty undergrowth
except along the creeks and watercourses or the sides of hills.

Scrub-lands. Consist of Mallee and Marlock (dwarf Eucalypts) , Mulga,
Myall, Gidgea, Pindum, Brigalow, Belah, Wilga, Dead Finish (Acacias),
Pine (Callitris) , and She-oak ( Casuarina ) scrubs of the dry inland or semi-
desert areas.

Heath-lands . Areas consisting of the flat tops of hills or gently sloping
plateaux with a stunted and semi-drought-resisting vegetation, mostly about
two to six feet in height.

Open country. Includes plains, desert, and semi-desert areas. Plains
are chiefly associated with Mitchell ( Astrebla ) and Flinders ( Iseilema )
grasses; desert areas with spinifex, porcupine, and cane grasses (Triodia) ;
and semi-desert areas with salt-bush ( Atriplex ), blue-bush, and cotton-bush
(Kochia).

Plan of the Book.

Divisions. Instead of chapters, the species are arranged under four
main divisions: Forest-frequenting Birds; Birds of the Heath-lands and

INTRODUCTION

xi*

Open Country; Birds of the Lakes , Streams , and Szvamps; and Birds of the
Ocean and Shore. These divisions have been subdivided into groups, such as
Birds of the Brushes and Big Scrubs, Birds of the Open Forest , and so on.
A full list of these groups is shown in the list of plates.

Coloured plates. Each coloured plate is accompanied by the letterpress
relating to the species figured on that plate, the numbers coinciding.
Photographs illustrating typical habitats are also included.

Measurements. The size-key on each plate indicates the sizes of the
birds in proportion to their life-size.

Scientific names. The scientific names used are those accepted by the
Royal Australasian Ornithologists’ Union and published in the Official Check-
list of the Birds of Australia (2nd edition, 1926). This is the nomenclature
generally used by Australian ornithologists.

Pronunciation. Guidance to the pronunciation of scientific names : The
mark ' indicates the syllable to be accented. The marks “ and “ over
vowels show their quantity ; that is, whether they are long or short.
Diphthongs are always long. The pronunciation here indicated is the English,
not the “continental” or “Roman” pronunciation of Latin.

Pronounce

a as in fate; a as in fat;
e as in Peter ; e as in pet ;

I as in site ; 1 as in sit ;

6 as in note ; 6 as in not ;
u as in cute ; u as in cut ;
au as in audience;
se and ce as e ; ai as i ;
c (soft) as s before e, i, and y;
c (hard) as k before a, o, and u;
ch as k.

Vowels not marked are short.

Derivation. The derivations of the generic and specific names are based
on the investigations of the late H. Wolstenholme, whose researches in this
province appear in an appendix to the Checklist. Mr Wolstenholme was
unable to find the origin of some Australian generic names. When the
originator leaves no reason for the name he has chosen, it is impossible
always to know what was in his mind to suggest that name.

Abbreviations. Gk = Greek
L. = Latin

N.L. — New Latin (a latinized form of a word from
another language).

V ernacular names. With few exceptions the common names used are
those accepted and published in the Checklist. Common names other than
those used in the Checklist are included, but their use should be discarded
to avoid confusion.

Distribution. Except in some few instances where slight additions and
amendments are made, the range distribution used is taken from the
Checklist .

A REFERENCE MAP OF LOCALITIES

Note . — Northern Territory referred to in the text embraces North Australia and Central Australia.

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BIRDS

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BIRDS

3

PLATE I

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BIRDS

(Excluding Sea-birds)

1. Pied Goose Anseranas semipalmata Latham

An-ser-an'-as — L., anser , goose; L., anas , anatis, duck: senii-pal-ma-ta —
L., semi, half ; L., palmatus, webbed.

Distribution. — Northern, eastern, and southern Australia; casual
to south-western Australia and Tasmania; also accidental to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Magpie Goose, Black-and-white Goose, and
Semipalmated Goose. Usually in flocks, frequenting swamps, lagoons,
mangrove flats, estuaries, lakes, and rivers. Generally seen searching for
food in shallow water, or else perched on the branches of trees bordering
swamps and watercourses. Food : aquatic plants and animals.

Nest . — A flat, sometimes bulky, structure, composed of rushes and
herbage ; placed on a trampled-down tussock of reeds. Generally the
nesting-site is near the middle of a swamp.

Eggs. — Usually five to eight, occasionally as many as twelve or four-
teen, creamy or dull yellowish-white, unless nest-stained. Breeding-
season: varies according to the rainfall, January to March; July to
December.

2. Pelican Pelecanus conspicillatus Temminck

Pel-e-ca-nus — Gk, pelecan , pelican: con-spic-ill-a -tus — L., conspicillatus ,
spectacled.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
Amboina and New Guinea, accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, frequenting the estuaries of rivers, mud-
flats of the coast and contiguous islands, or rivers and lakes of the inland
areas. It is generally seen fishing in shallow water or at rest on a mud or
sand-flat. Whereas it is thoroughly at home on the water or in the air, it
has a waddling gait on land. Food: fish and salt- and fresh- water
crustaceans.

Nest. — A depression in the ground surrounded by a collection of dead
plant-stems, grasses, and sticks, gathered as incubation proceeds. It breeds
in colonies, the nests being about a yard apart.

Eggs. — Two or three, dull white or dirty yellowish-white, often
irregularly coated with lime, and usually nest-stained. Breeding season;
September to March (eastern Australia and Tasmania).

4

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

3. Cassowary Casuarius casuarius Linne
Cas-ii-ar'-i-ns — N.L., casuarius , from Malay casoar.

Distribution. — North-eastern Queensland (Cardwell to the Pascoe
River) ; also occurs in Ceram, the Aru Islands, an< New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually singly, frequenting the dense scrubs. It is excep-
tionally wary and timid, keeping to the thickest parts of the scrubs during
the day, venturing forth towards evening and at daybreak to visit its
favourite feeding-trees. Its call-note is a series of prolonged, harsh, gut-
tural croakings, quickly repeated, or a short but deep booming grunt.
Food: native fruits, seeds, berries, and leaves.

Nest. — A bed of sticks, leaves, and such-like vegetable debris, about
3 feet in diameter; usually placed near the base of a large tree in dense
scrub.

Eggs. — Three to five, light pea-green, the shell being coarse and
granulated. Breeding-season: July to September.

4. Cape Barren Goose Cereopsis novce-hollandice Latham
Cer-e-ops-is — L., cera, wax; Gk, opsis, appearance: novce-hollandice — of
New Holland.

Distribution. — Coastal southern Australia, Tasmania, and the islands
of Bass Strait.

Notes. — Also called Pig Goose. Usually in pairs or small flocks, fre-
quenting grass-lands and swampy areas. It is an extremely wary and
timid species; unfortunately it is becoming rare. The name Pig Goose
is due to its grunt-like notes. Food : grass and herbage.

Nest. — A large and rather flat structure, composed of dried grass and
plants, and lined with down; placed on the ground.

Eggs. — Four to seven, creamy-white, the surface being highly polished.
Breeding-season : June to September.

5. Bustard Eupodotis australis Gray

Eu-pod-o-tis — Gk, eupous , eupodos, having good feet; Gk, otis, otidos,
bustard: australis — southern (Australian).

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Plain Turkey. Usually singly or in pairs, occa-
sionally in small flocks, frequenting chiefly the inland plains. It is a wary
bird, generally keeping to situations where it has an uninterrupted view
of the surrounding country Being a ground-dwelling and ground-breeding
bird, it falls an easy prey to the introduced fox, but the man with a gun
is its chief enemy. During the breeding-period the male displays in an
extraordinary manner, and utters his peculiar call — a low, hollow roar,
difficult to describe in words. Its food consists of large insects (chiefly
grasshoppers, beetles, and crickets), grass, and green herbage; also fruits
and berries of low-growing vegetation.

Nest. — None made; generally the eggs are laid on the bare ground,
sheltered by tall grass or a low bush.

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST BIRDS

5

Eggs . — One or two, buff or greenish-buff, smudged or blotched all
over with brown markings. Breeding-season: January to April ; June and
July (northern Queensland) ; September to November (New South
Wales).

6. Jabiru Xenorhynchus asiaticus Latham

Xen-o-rhyncti-us — Gk, xenos , strange; Gk, rhynchos , beak: asiaticus —
Asiatic.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Australia, from the Fitzroy
River (north-western Australia) to north-eastern New South Wales; also
occurs in India, Burma, the Malay Archipelago to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Black-necked Stork. Usually singly, in pairs, or
family parties, frequenting swamps, salt-water creeks, and lagoons. It
is generally seen stalking quietly about seeking its prey, every now and
again jumping along with great strides and jabbing at fish with its huge
bill. Food: fish, crabs, and carrion of all kinds.

Nest. — A large pile of sticks and twigs, on which a thin layer of grass
or rushes is laid, placed on a low swamp tree, or in a tall tree.

Eggs . — Two to four, whitish unless nest-stained. Breeding-season:
May and June (Northern Territory) ; March and April (Queensland).

7. Brolga Megalornis rubicundus Perry

Meg-al-orn-is — Gk, megas ( megalos ), large; Gk, ornis, bird: ru-bi-cun-
dus — L., rubicimduSj red.

Distribution. — Australia (except the south-western portion).

Notes. — Also called Native Companion and Australian Crane. Usually
in pairs or flocks, frequenting plains and swampy areas. It is a permanent
resident in some districts, nomadic in other localities. Its flight is easy and
graceful and at times it soars to a great height. A flock will amuse itself
by dancing, forming “quadrille parties” or “corroborees.” All manner of
movements are performed in a most graceful way. Its call is a deep
trumpeting note. Food: insects, small rodents, frogs, and reptiles; also
herbage and edible roots of various kinds.

Nest. — Usually none made, the eggs being laid on the ground;
occasionally the eggs are rimmed around with pieces of reeds, plants, or
grass. Sometimes it is a substantial platform of grass tussocks, reeds and
similar material.

Eggs . — Two, glossy white, covered with a few purplish-red spots.
Breeding-season : September to March.

S. Black Swan Chenopis atrata Latham

Cheri-op-is — Gk, chert, goose; Gk, opsis, appearance: a-tra-ta — L., atra -
tus, blackened.

Distribution. — Australia (except the extreme northern portions) and
Tasmania; introduced into New Zealand.

6

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes . — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting alike lakes, rivers, and
swamps of the inland areas as well as similar situations in the coastal
regions. It lives and breeds freely in parks and gardens. Its trumpet-like
call as it flies from one feeding-ground to another, is well known to most
bird lovers. These flights are mostly during the evening and more especi-
ally on moonlight nights. Its food consists of aquatic plants and animals.

Nest . — A large, open, thick-walled structure, composed of twigs,
rushes, and aquatic plants; slightly lined inside with down. Generally
placed in swamps and lakes, favourite sites being small islands of rushes
and reeds surrounded by water — a protection against the fox.

Eggs . — Usually five or six, sometimes as many as eight or nine, pale
green or dull greenish-white and slightly lustrous. Breeding-season :
August to December.

9. Emu Dromaius novce-hollandice Latham

Drom-ai'-us— Gk, dromaios , swift-footed: novoe-hollandioe — of New
Holland.

Distribution . — Australia generally; extinct in Tasmania, King Island,,
and Kangaroo Island.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting plains. Although
once plentifully distributed over the continent, increasing settlement has
driven it farther afield, and few people are privileged to see this bird in
its wild state. Many pastoralists consider it a nuisance, as it fouls pasture-
lands, but while it should be kept in check, it certainly should not be
exterminated. During times of drought this bird suffers greatly, as it
generally feeds on “green” grass and herbage. Caterpillars and grass-
hoppers are also eaten.

Nest . — Usually a flat bed or platform, composed of grass or other
herbage trampled down on the ground. Nests are frequently in the open
without much attempt at concealment. The male does most of the
incubation.

Eggs . — Usually about nine, but varying from seven to eighteen, dark
green, with a granulated surface. Breeding-season: April to November,
or according to weather conditions.

FOREST-FREQUENTING BIRDS

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

9

PLATE II

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

1. Lewin Honey-eater Meliphaga lewini Swainson

Mel-ipti-ag-a — Gk, meli, honey; Gk, phagein , to eat: lewini — John
William Lewin, ornithologist and artist.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Barron River (northern
Queensland) to Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-eared Honey-eater and Banana-bird.
Usually in pairs, frequenting the dense low scrubby trees ; it is a fearless
bird, allowing one to approach quite near without showing alarm. Its
song is a feature of the brushes, being a succession of loud, ringing notes.
Food: insects, pollen, and nectar; also native fruits and berries and
cultivated fruits.

Nest. — A well-made, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
bark, skeletons of leaves, moss, and spiders' egg-bags, held together with
spiders' webs; warmly lined with dried grasses and plant down. Sus-
pended by the rim to a thin forked horizontal limb of a thick foliaged tree,
at heights up to 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, occasionally three, white, well spotted and
blotched, chiefly at the larger end, with light to rich reddish-brown or
purplish-black markings. Breeding-season: September to January.

2. Yellow- throated Scrub-wren Sericornis lathami Stephens

Ser-ic-orn-is — Gk, sericos, silken ; Gk, ornis, bird : lathami — Dr John
Latham (1740-1837), English ornithologist, who published, in 1801, the
first important work on Australian birds.

Distribution. — Eastern Queensland to Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Devil-bird. Usually in pairs, searching for
insect-life on the ground, on logs, or among fallen leaves and other debris.
It is fearless in disposition, often approaching to within a few feet of
the observer. It utters a rich, clear call-note, and is also an excellent
mimic, imitating the calls and songs of the other birds with which it
associates. Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A bulky, domed structure, with a slightly hooded entrance in
the lower portion, composed of rootlets and skeletons of leaves, inter-
mingled with mosses; lined with feathers. Attached near the end of a
leafy pendulous branch of a tree, often overhanging water, at heights ud
to 20 feet or more from the ground.

10

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Eggs. — Two or three, varying from almost pure white to pale choco-
late-brown or chocolate-pink ; generally they are lighter in colour on the
smaller end, but some have slaty tinges in the ground colour, and almost
invariably have clouded zones. Breeding-season: August to December.

3. Grey Whistler Pachycephala griseiceps Gray
PacJi-y-cepJi-al-a — Gk, pachys , thick; Gk, cephale , head: gris-e-i-ceps —
L., griseus, grey ; - ceps , from L., caput, itis, head.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Rocking-
ham Bay; also occurs in the Aru Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting the big scrubs, where it is
mostly observed seeking insect-life in the outer foliage of the largest
trees, or among the tangled vines. Its song is a loud, clear whistle, com-
posed of from five to ten notes; also two short call-notes. Food: insects,
mostly small beetles.

Nest. — A somewhat loosely made, cup-shaped structure, composed of
fibre and dead leaves, interwoven with rootlets and tendrils; sparsely
lined with dead grass and tendrils ; on the outside are webs and castings of
insects. Usually placed in the upright fork of a small sapling.

Eggs. — Usually two, white, well marked all over, particularly at the
larger end, with spots of dark and light umber and purplish-grey, the latter
appearing as if beneath the shell. Breeding-season: October.

4. Magnificent Rifle-bird Ptiloris magnificns Vieillot — 4A. Female
Ptil'-o-ris — Gk, ptilon, feather ; Gk, ris, rinos — rhis, nose : mag-nif-i-cus
— L., magnificus, magnificent.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to the Claudie
River; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting the big scrubs. It is similar
in habits to the Paradise Rifle-bird; its call, however, is quite different,
being a loud insistent whistle, following two sharp whistles. Food:
chiefly native fruits; also insects.

Nest. — A loosely and scantily built, open, cup-shaped structure, com-
posed of dead leaves, vine tendrils, and fibre; lined with vine tendrils and
plant-fibre. Often placed in a pandanus palm, within 7 feet of the ground ;
sometimes built on top of a dead spout of a tree or similar situation,
as high as 40 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, creamv-white, beautifully marked with longitudinal
streaks and spots of brownish-olive, rufous-brown, and slate, the long
brush-like streaks becoming more numerous at the larger end. Breeding-
season : October to early February; May.

5. Victoria Rifle-bird Ptiloris victories Gould — 5 A. Female
victories — Queen Victoria.

Distribution . — N orthern Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Lesser Rifle-bird. Usually in pairs, frequenting

Plate II

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES ANI) BIG SCRUBS

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

ii

the big scrubs of the mainland and many islands off the coast. It is very
similar in habits and call-notes to the Paradise Rifle-bird. Food: native
fruits and insects.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of dead leaves, vine
tendrils, twigs, and portions of climbing plants; lined with fine twigs.
Frequently pieces of the cast-off skin of a snake are used as decorations,
these being worked into the outside materials of the structure. Usually
secreted in a thick mass of vines or foliage, often near the top of a small
tree in dense scrub.

Eggs. — Two, reddish flesh-colour, beautifully marked with longitud-
inal streaks and a few smudges or spots of red, purplish-red, reddish-violet,
and purplish-grey, a number appearing as if beneath the shell. Breeding-
season: (July to September), October to December.

6. Paradise Rifle-bird Ptiloris paradiseus Swainson — 6A. Female
par-a-di -se-us — L., paradiseus , of Paradise.

Distribution. — Central Queensland (Rockhampton) to central New
South Wales (Hunter River).

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting the big scrubs and brushes of
the coast and contiguous mountain ranges. Each male bird appears to
have his own special domain, an area about a quarter of a square mile
in extent, over which he reigns; he rarely leaves his territory. The call
is a harsh scream, “Y-a-a-ss,” frequently uttered, especially during the
mating season. The male “displays” in an extraordinary manner, usually
selecting for his performance a bare horizontal limb of a tree at the edge
of the scrub, or overlooking a gorge. This limb he visits regularly. Food:
insects, mostly procured from under or in the crevices of the bark on
tree-trunks; also native fruits and berries.

Nest. — A rather large, open, cup-shaped structure, composed of large
brown dead leaves and vine tendrils, decorated with pieces of green
climbing fern and portions of the cast-off skins of snakes ; lined with wiry
fern-stems and rootlets. Usually secreted in a dense mass of vines or
foliage in the topmost part of a bushy tree, at heights up to 90 feet from
the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, reddish-cream, beautifully and regularly marked
with spots and longitudinal streaks like brush markings, of red, reddish-
chestnut, purplish-red, and underlying ones of purplish-grey; the mark-
ings are more pronounced on the larger end. Breeding-season: October
to December.

7. Shining Starling Aplonis metallica Temminck — 7A. Immature

A p -Ion -is — no derivation has been found; the name suggests Apollonis,
from Apollo, the sun : met'-al-li-ca — L., metallicus , like metal.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland; also occurs in the Celebes,
Molucca Islands, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Migratory, arrives in August and departs in March. In
flocks, resembling in their flights the introduced Starling, performing

12

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

many weird movements ; like Starlings, they make the same chattering
noise while on the wing. An exceptionally noisy species, and an excellent
mimic. In certain districts it is known as “Whirlwind-bird.” It breeds
in colonies in trees, chiefly tall white mangrove and Moreton Bay ash-
trees. Food: native fruits, principally wild nutmegs from which the
mace only is eaten; also insects, often caught on the wing.

Nest . — A large, domed structure, rather oval in shape, with an
entrance at one side, constructed chiefly of hard twisted tendrils of
creeping plants ; lined with portions of palm leaves, and a quantity of hair-
like fibre. Suspended from the limb of a tree, usually in or close to
dense scrub. As many as two hundred nests have been counted hanging
in a tree.

Eggs . — Three or four, pale bluish-white, spotted and speckled, chiefly
at the larger end, with reddish-brown, dull purple, and dull purplish-grey.
Breeding-season : August to December.

8. Regent Bower-bird Sericulus chrysocephalus Lewin — 8A. Female

Scr-ic'-ii-lus — Gk, sericos, silken : chrys-o-cepti-al-us — Gk, chrysos , golden ;
Gk, cepliale, head.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New
South Wales.

Notes . — Also called Regent-bird. Mostly in pairs or flocks accord-
ing to the season of the year. The flocks usually consist of one fully
piumaged male to twenty or more females and immature males. Generally
observed feeding upon the fruits and berries of native trees, vines, and
shrubs. The call-note is a guttural “Te-ar” long drawn out; when alarmed
the bird utters a squeaky “Whit-whit.” This species builds a bower or
playground — a cleared space about 4 feet in diameter, in the centre of
which it constructs a bed of sticks, well trampled down, erects two walls,
each about 8 inches long and 6 inches high, and then decorates the bower
with empty land-snail shells and a few leaves and berries. Often the
bower is built without a bed of sticks, the materials of the walls being
pushed into the damp soil. Food: insects, native fruits, and berries; also
cultivated fruits.

Nest . — A rather deep, saucer-shaped structure, composed of thin dry
sticks and twigs, lined with thinner twigs. Usually placed in a mass of
foliage or vines, at heights up to 40 feet from the ground.

Eggs . — Usually two. yellowish-stone colour or faint-greyish or dull
white, beautifully and delicately marked and marbled with lines and
hair-like irregular markings of olive-brown, blackish-brown, and dull
purplish-grey; some have the markings predominating around the larger
end, in others, these are confined to the centre. Breeding-season: October
to the end of January.

9. Golden Bower-bird Prionodura newtoniana De Vis — 9 A. Female
Pr\ -on-o-dur -a — Gk, prion , saw; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail: newtoniana —
Alfred Newton (1829-1907), Professor of Zoology, Cambridge.

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

13

Distribution . — Northern Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Newton’s Bower-bird. Usually in pairs or small
parties, frequenting the big scrubs. Its call is a frog-like croak, difficult
to imitate ; the bird is also a splendid mimic. This species builds an
immense bower, usually constructed on the ground between two small
trees or between a tree and a bush. It is made of small sticks and twigs
which are piled up almost horizontally around one of the trees in the form
of a pyramid, attaining a height varying from 4 to 9 feet; a similar but
smaller pile is then built around the foot of the other tree. The space
between is arched over with stems of climbing plants, and the walls are
decorated with pieces of green moss, ferns, orchids, flowers of other
plants, and clusters of berries. Through and over the covered run-way
the birds play, the males displaying their glorious plumage, erecting the
crest and nape feathers and spreading the tail. Food : native fruits and
berries.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of dead leaves, large
but thin strips of bark, skeleton leaves, small sticks, and moss ; lined with
rootlets and twigs. It is usually placed in an opening, ledge, or hollow
portion of a tree, or other such sheltered position in dense scrub, and often
within 3 or 4 feet of the ground.

Eggs. — Two, pure white. Breeding-season: October to December.
10. Spangled Drongo Chibia bracteata Gould

Chib'-i-a — East Indian chibia , drongo: hrac-te-d-ta — L., bracteatus, like
a shining metal plate.

Distribution. — North-western Australia to northern Queensland to
eastern Victoria, accidental to Tasmania; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting alike scrub and open forest
countries; chiefly migratory, arriving in New South Wales during October
and departing in March or occasionally as late as May. It shows a prefer-
ence for trees on the edge of scrubs, and is very similar to the Dollar-
bird in the method of securing its food. The call-note is a loud, harsh,
cackling whistle, easily recognized when compared with the calls of other
species. Food: insects, procured on the wing and among the leaves and
blossoms.

Nest. — An open, shallow, cup-shaped structure, composed almost
entirely of vine tendrils intermingled with plant-stems; frequently it has a
quantity of spiders’ webs worked over the forked branch in which it is
built; often lined with rootlets. It is attached at the sides to a thin forked
stem of an outspreading branch of a bushy tree, at heights up to 50 feet
or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Three to five, varying from faint reddish or pinkish-white to
pale purplish-grey, spotted, blotched, and finely streaked with pinkish-red,
chestnut, and purplish-grey. Breeding-season: October to February.

c

M

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

11. Manucode Phony gammus keraudreni Lesson and Garnot

Phon-y-gam-mus — Gk, phone , voice ; Gk, garnos, marriage : kerandreni —
Keraudren, French voyager and naturalist.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to the Claudie
River district; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Australian Bird of Paradise and Trumpet-bird.
Usually in pairs, frequenting the tall fruit and berry-bearing scrub-trees,
usually in the company of other fruit-eating species. It has a melodious
call, and also utters a loud and deep guttural note. Food: native fruits and
berries.

Nest . — An open and rather shallow structure, composed almost en-
tirely of strong curly vine tendrils and creeping plant-stems woven
together ; lined with finer tendrils. Usually placed in a thin forked branch
of a leafy tree, at heights up to 70 feet or more from the ground. The
nest of this species is usually placed in a tree close to one containing a
nest of a Butcher-bird.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale purplish-pink, well marked with short long-
itudinal streaks and spots of reddish-chestnut, purple, and purplish-grey,
the markings becoming more numerous towards the larger end. Breeding-
season : October to the end of January.

12. Koel Eudynamys orientalis Linne — 12A. Female

Eu-dy-na-mys — Gk, eu } well, good; Gk, dynamis, power: or-i-en-ta-lis —

L., orientalis, eastern.

Distribution . — North-western, northern, and eastern Australia to as
far south as Victoria; also occurs in Timor, the Molucca Islands, and
New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Cooee-bird and Flinders Cuckoo. Usually in
pairs, frequenting the big scrubs and brushes. It is a migratory species,
arriving in New South Wales during September and departing in March.
Its joyful call, “Coo-ee,” may be heard at night as well as in the day-time;
besides the “Coo-ee” it has other notes uttered in quick succession. It is
exceptionally noisy during mating-time. This Cuckoo is often pursued by
other birds, more especially those species that act as fosterers. Food:
chiefly native fruits and berries and introduced fruits such as mulberries
and figs; also insects.

Parasitic — known foster-parents number about twelve species, chiefly
the larger Honey-eaters and Orioles.

Egg. — Pale reddish-salmon, rather sparingly sprinkled with dots
and small irregular markings and short wavy streaks of dull purplish-
red and purplish-grey, the latter appearing as though beneath the shell;
the markings predominate towards the larger end. Breeding-season:
October to January or February.

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

15

13. Satin Bower-bird Ptilonorhynchus violaceus Vieillot — 13A. Female

Ptil'-on-o-rhyncli-ns — Gk, ptilon, feather; Gk, rhynchqs, bill: vi-o-la-ce -
us — L., violaceus , blue.

Distribution . — Eastern Australia, from Cape York to southern
Victoria (Lake Corangamite).

Notes . — Usually in pairs or small flocks, according to the seasons of
the year, frequenting the big scrubs and brushes. It is plentiful through-
out the brushes of the coastal districts where it is usually observed feeding
upon native fruits. Females and young males predominate in the flocks
and appear to be more fearless than fully coloured males. It has several
call-notes, chief of which is a saw-like “wheeze” ; it is also a splendid
mimic. Wild fruits and berries constitute the greater portion of its food,
to which are added insects of various kinds. During the summer and
autumn months, when congregated in flocks, it visits orchards and does
considerable damage, attacking chiefly the soft fruits. It builds a bower
or playhouse on the ground, generally in scrub, and placed near a fallen
log or moss-covered rock. A space about 2 or 3 feet in diameter is
cleared and covered with a layer of thin sticks and twigs to a depth of
about 3 inches. In the centre of this platform two parallel walls of thin
sticks are built, the base of the walls being thicker, the inner portion
resembling in form an inverted horseshoe. Scattered over the platform,
but rarely in the bower, are various decorations, chiefly coloured blue,
yellowish-green, and olive-brown, and consisting of feathers, berries,
flowers, leaves, pieces of glass, blue-bags, snail shells, and cicada larvae
shells. The birds also paint the inner walls of the bower with powdered
charcoal.

Nest . — An open and rather shallow structure, composed of thin
sticks and twigs; lined with dried eucalypt leaves. Usually built in the
fork of a tree at heights up to 40 feet from the ground; often a clump
of mistletoe ( Loranthus ) growing in a tree, is used as a nesting-site.

Eggs . — Two or three, dark cream-colour, spotted and blotched, chiefly
towards the larger end, with dark olive-brown, cinnamon-brown, and slaty-
grey. Breeding-season : October to the end of December.

i6

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE 111

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

1. Rose-crowned Pigeon Ptilinopus euringi Gould
Ptil-in-o-pus— Gk, ptilon, feather; Gk, pus ( pous ), podos, foot: ewingv—
Rev. T. J. Ewing, Tasmanian naturalist and friend of John Gould.

Distribution. — North-western Australia (Kimberley) to Northern
Territory; also occurs in Flores and Timor.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting the fruit and berry-
bearing trees of the coastal brushes and scrubs. Similar in habits to the
Red-crowned Pigeon.

Nest.— A slightly built platform, about inches in diameter, com-
posed of small sticks; placed in the branches of a tree up to 8 feet or
more from the ground.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season: October to February.

2. Purple-crowned Pigeon Ptilinopus superbus Temminck

su-perb'-us — L., superbus , handsome.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, accidental to Tasmania; also occurs
in the Molucca Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Superb Fruit-pigeon. Usually in pairs or flocks,
frequenting the brushes and big scrubs, chiefly of the coastal districts
Similar in habits and food to the Red-crowned Pigeon. Its call-note is a
gruff succession of “ooms M uttered slowly.

Nest. — A olatform about 3 inches in diameter, composed of a few
twio's * built in*a small tree on a low horizontal fork at a height up to
10 feet from the ground. Usually situated in open forest at the edge

of scrub. .

Egg . — White, with a faint creamy tinge. Breeding-season: October

to February.

3. Red-crowned Pigeon Ptilinopus regina Swainson
re-gi-na — L., regina , queen.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, as far south as the Bellinger River ,
also occurs in New Guinea and the islands of Torres Strait.

Notes. — Also called Swainson’s Fruit-pigeon and Pink-headed Dove.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting the brushes and big scrubs of the
coastal districts as well as forests and mangroves. It is a migratory

Plate III

I 1 ! I I [""III II

/ 2 .3 4 6 G 7 3 9 IO //
Qne/oor

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

i7

species, usually arriving in New South Wales during October and Novem-
ber. Except when feeding, it is a difficult bird to locate in the scrub, its
plumage harmonizing wonderfully with the leaves of the trees it frequents.
The call-note, which is comparatively loud for a small bird, is a single
“Coo’ repeated about a dozen times. It is generally found feeding
in fig or other fruit and berry-bearing trees.

Nest. — A scanty platform, about 5 or 6 inches in diameter, com-
posed of twigs. Generally placed high up from the ground in the leafy
branches of a scrub tree, or in a mangrove tree. Usually the egg can be
easily seen from beneath the nest.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season: October to February.

4. Green-winged Pigeon Chalcophaps chrysochlora Wagler

ChaT-co-phaps— Gk, chalcos, bronze; Gk, phaps, pigeon: chrys-o-chldr-a
— Gk, chrysos , golden ; Gk, chloros, yellow-green.

Distribution . — Northern Territory and eastern Australia; also occurs
in Timor, the Molucca Islands, New Hebrides, New Caledonia, and Lord
Howe Island.

Notes. — Also called Little Green Pigeon. Usually in pairs, frequent-
ing the brushes and big scrubs of the coastal districts. It is mainly terres-
trial in habits, and is remarkably fearless. When flushed, it rises with
a whirring sound, flies rapidly through the scrub for a short distance,
and then drops suddenly to the ground. Its call-note is a monotonous
“Coo-coo” uttered throughout the day. Food: native fruits, berries, and
seeds.

Nest.— A scanty and almost flat structure, composed of twigs. Usually
placed at the junction of several leafy horizontal branches, on a mass of
vines, or on top of a fern growing on a tree, at heights up to 15 feet
from the ground.

Eggs . — Two, pale cream-colour. Breeding-season: October to

January.

5. Yellow Oriole Oriolus flavocinctus King

Or-i-dl'-us — N.L., from O. Fr. orxol and L. aureolus , golden; aurum,
gold : flav-o-cinc'-tus — L., flaws, yellow ; L., cinctus, banded.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes. — Common in the scrubs and mangroves, where its pleasant,
liquid, bubbling notes are heard from daybreak until sunset. Similar in
habits to the Olive-backed Oriole. Food : native fruits and berries.

Nest. — A compact, open, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips
of soft bark and vine tendrils; lined with twigs and rootlets. Usually
placed in the outer branches of a high tree, up to 50 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, pale cream colour, boldly spotted and blotched with
blackish-brown and pale slate markings, particularly at the larger end.
Breeding-season: September to December.

i8

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

6. Olive-backed Oriole Oriolus sagittatus Latham
sa-git-ta-tus ■ — L., sagittatus , marked with arrows.

Distribution. — Northern, eastern, and southern Australia to as far
south as Adelaide.

Notes. — Also called Green Thrush and Cedar Pigeon. Usually in
pairs or flocks according to the seasons of the year, frequenting the open
forest or brush and showing a preference for the latter as it affords an
abundant supply of food, consisting of native fruits, berries, and insects.
It is a splendid songster, possessing a varied series of melodious notes;
it is also an excellent mimic.

Nest. — A deep, open, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
stringy -bark, bark-fibre, or paper bark, interwoven with leaves ; occasion-
ally it is decorated with lichen and spiders’ webs and egg-bags ; lined with
dried grasses. Usually placed in the outer drooping branch of a tree, up
to 60 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two to four, usually three, pale cream-colour, spotted and
blotched with light and dark umber and slate-grey markings, particularly
at the larger end. Breeding-season: September to the end of December
or January.

7. Fig-bird Sphecotheres vieilloti Vigors and Horsfield — 7A. Female
Sphec-o-ther-es — Gk, sphex, sphecos, wasp; Gk, theras , I hunt: vieilloti —
Louis Jean Pierre Vieillot (1748-1831), a celebrated French ornithologist.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cairns (northern Queens-
land) to Sydney (New South Wales).

Notes. — Also called Mulberry-bird and Banana-bird. Usually in
pairs, frequenting the big scrubs, brushes, and open forests. It is
exceptionally active and noisy, constantly uttering its peculiar parrot-
like notes; generally observed feeding in fruit and berry-bearing trees.
It also visits orchards, chiefly devouring mulberries, figs, bananas, papaws,
loquats, and guavas.

Nest. — An open, shallow structure, composed of vine-tendrils or stems
of climbing plants and a few twigs. Although only a scanty structure,
through which the eggs are easily seen from beneath, it is strongly built
into the forked horizontal leafy twigs of an outer branch of a tree, at
heights up to 70 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, varying from pale apple-green to dull olive-
green, spotted all over, but more so at the larger end, with reddish or
purplish-brown markings. Breeding-season: October to December or
January.

8. Yellow Fig-bird Sphecotheres flaviventris Gould — 8A. Female
flav-i-ven-tris — L., flavus, yellow; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-breasted Fig-bird. Usually in pairs or
small parties, frequenting both scrub and open forest-lands. Very
similar in habits to the Southern Fig-bird. Food: native fruits and
berries.

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

19

Nest. — A neatly made, saucer-shaped structure, without lining, com-
posed of long pieces of vine-tendrils and a few twigs. Generally attached
to the end of a drooping branch of a tree, at heights up to 50 feet from
the ground. This species often nests in the same tree as the Drongo
or the Helmeted Friar-bird.

E99 s - — Usually three, greenish to greenish-white or greenish-brown,
spotted and blotched with reddish-brown or purplish-red ; many of the
markings appear as if beneath the shell. Breeding-season : October to
January.

9. Spotted Cat-bird Ailurcedus melanotas Gray

Ail-ur-ced'-us — Gk, ailouros , cat; Gk, eidos, form: met -an-o-tus — Gk,
melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, otos, genitive of ous, ear.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland; also occurs in the Aru Islands.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the big scrubs
and brushes. It is very similar in habits to the Green Cat-bird and utters
the same cat-like cries. Food: native fruits and berries.

Nest. — A large, open, bowl-shaped structure, composed of long twigs
and broad leaves; lined with twigs and dead wiry stems of climbing
plants. Usually placed near the top of a bushy sapling or small tree in
dense scrub, at heights up to 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs . — Usually two, rarely three, cream-coloured. Breeding-season :
September to December or January.

10. Green Cat-bird Ailurcedus crassirostris Paykull
crass-i-ros-tris — L., crassus, thick; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland and eastern New South
Wales.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting chiefly the big scrubs
and brushes of the coastal districts. It is often observed in the company
of the Regent and Satin Bower-birds, feeding upon different kinds of
native fruits and berries. Its quaint call, a cat-like “Me-ow” uttered more
frequently at daybreak and towards dusk, is a feature of the brushes.
Apart from the rather loud “Me-ow,” it has another single call, a low
plaintive “hiss,” used mostly when alarmed. Food: native fruits and
berries; it is very fond of the seeds of the bangalow and cabbage-tree
palms; also insects, chiefly beetles.

Nest. — A bowl-shaped structure, composed of long twigs and stems
of climbing plants entwined around a layer of long broad leaves, and
occasionally moss; lined with fine dried twigs. Usually placed near the
top of a low bushy tree, or in a leafy mass of vines, at heights up to 40
feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, sometimes three, cream or pale creamy-white.
Breeding-season: September to December or January.

20

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

11. Tooth-billed Bower-bird Scenopoeetes dentirostris Ramsay
Sceri-o-pce-e -tes — Gk, scenos, tent; Gk, poietes, maker: dent-i-ros -tris
— L., dens, tooth; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Bellenden Ker Range district).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the big scrubs
and brushes chiefly of the mountain ranges. It is often seen in the com-
pany of the Spotted Cat-bird, feeding in native fruit and berry-bearing
trees. This species makes a playground, or what some observers call a
“circus-ring” — a cleared space on the ground, about 3 to 5 feet in diameter,
U]x>n which the birds place fresh leaves, usually from one particular kind
of tree. As the leaves wither they are removed and fresh ones added.
The birds assemble at these playgrounds to display and gambol. Usually
old-established playgrounds are encircled by a great accumulation of the
discarded leaves. It is said to be one of the finest of our bird mimics.
Food: native fruits and berries; also insects, chiefly beetles.

Nest. — A frail, open, shallow structure, composed of thin dry sticks;
lined with thin dry twigs. Usually placed in a thick mass of foliage or
clump of vines in a tree, at heights up to 80 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, rich creamy-brown. Breeding-season: October
to December.

12. Top-knot Pigeon Lopholaimus antarcticus Shaw
Loph'-o-lalnir-iis — Gk, lophos, crest; Gk, laimos, throat: an-tarc-tic-us —
L., antarcticus, southern

Distribution . — Eastern Australia; accidental to Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Flock-pigeon. Usually in flocks, frequenting the
big scrubs and brushes. It is nomadic in habits, its movements coinciding
with the ripening of different native fruits and berries and the seeds of
the bangalow and cabbage-tree palms. Its flesh is excellent eating, and,
until protected, great numbers of these birds were shot. During the
autumn and winter months it congregates in immense flocks, which travel
great distances seeking food ; when not feeding in the scrub, it usually
keeps to the topmost branches of the highest trees.

Nest . — A platform of fairly stout twigs, usually placed in the thin
branches of a tall tree, at heights up to 70 feet from the ground. She-
oaks and turpentine-trees are favourite nesting-trees.

Egg. — Pearly white. Breeding-season: October to December.

13. Wompoo Pigeon Megaloprepia magnified Temminck
Meg'-al-o-prep’-i-a — Gk, megaloprepes, magnificent : mag-nif-i-ca — L.,
magni ficus , magnificent.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, as far south as Wollongong (New
South Wales) ; also occurs in the Molucca Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Magnificent Fruit-pigeon, Purple-breasted
Pigeon, Plum-breasted Pigeon, and Bubbly Mary. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting the big scrubs and brushes, chiefly of the coastal

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

21

districts. It is generally observed feeding in fruit and berry-bearing
trees, often in the company of the Red-crowned or the Purple-crowned
Pigeons. It has an extraordinary call, really startling when first heard,
the deep bubbling notes resembling “Wallock-a-woo,” or the well-known
gobble of a domestic turkey. Food: native fruits, berries, and seeds.

Nest. — A scanty platform of sticks laid crosswise in the horizontal
branches of a scrub tree, at heights up to 30 feet from the ground. Usually
the egg can be seen from beneath the nest.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season: October to February.

14. White-headed Pigeon Columba norfolciensis Latham

Col-uni -ba — L., columba , dove: norfolciensis — from Norfolk Island
(named in error as it does not occur there).

Distribution. — Eastern Queensland and eastern New South Wales, to
as far south as the Port Hacking district.

Notes. — Also called Baldy. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequent-
ing chiefly the coastal scrubs and brushes. It is nomadic, its movements
being regulated by the supply of food. It is often observed feeding on
native fruits and berries, the seeds of bangalow and cabbage-tree palms,
and the berries of the ink-weed. Frequently it is flushed from the ground.
Its call-note is a loud “Coo-coo-cook, ” uttered continuously.

Nest. — A scanty platform of sticks, laid crosswise in the horizontal
branches of a scrub tree or placed in a tangle of vines, usually at heights
up to 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — One, rarely two, dull white. Breeding-season: October to
January or February.

15. Brown Pigeon Macropygia phasianella Temminck

Mac-ro-pyg'-i-a (g = j) — Gk, macros, long; Gk, pyge , rump, tail: plta-si -
H-nel'-la — L., phasianella, little pheasant.

Distribution. — Northern Territory, Queensland, to southern New
South Wales; also occurs from the Philippine Islands to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Large-tailed Pigeon, Pheasant Pigeon, and
Brownie. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the big scrubs and
brushes of the coastal districts. It prefers the more open parts of the
scrubs, bush-tracks, and clearings, where it spends much of its time on
the ground feeding upon fallen seeds and berries. When flushed, it
usually settles again on a nearby branch. Food : berries of the ink-weed,
wild raspberry, and Cape gooseberry.

Nest. — A scanty platform of sticks, laid crosswise in a tangle of
vines or on the horizontal branches of a scrub tree, up to 10 feet from the
ground.

Eggs . — One, rarely two, dull wlfite or faint creamy-white. Breeding-
season : October to December (New South Wales); November, January,
February, June, and July (north-eastern Queensland).

22

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

16. Torres Strait Pigeon Myristicivora spilorrhoa Gray

My-ris'-ti-civ'-or-a — L., myristica, wild nutmeg; L., vorare, to eat: spil-
orr(h)'-o-a — Gk, spilos , spot; Gk, orrhos, tail.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, from Kimberley (north-western
Australia) to Port Denison (northern Queensland) and the islands of
Torres Strait; also occurs in the Aru Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called White Nutmeg Pigeon. A migrant, arriving in
flocks in Australia during September or October ; after breeding it departs
at the end of March or April. It breeds chiefly on the islands off the
coast, and visits the mainland each day seeking food, which consists of
native fruits and berries, such as quandongs, wild nutmegs, and date
plums. During the period of incubation the birds carry from the main-
land food in their crops for their sitting mates. Until protected many
thousands were killed each year.

Nest. — A scanty structure, consisting of a few twigs laid across each
other in the fork of a horizontal branch of a tree, chiefly mangroves and
tea-trees ; often the egg is visible from below.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season: October to the end of January
or February.

17. Black-banded Pigeon Leucotreron alligator Collett

Leuc-ot'-rer-on — Gk, leucos, white ; Gk, treron, timorous : alligator —
Alligator River, Northern Territory.

Distribution. — Northern Territory (Arnhem Land).

Notes. — The only published note stated that they were never seen
except in the region near the sources of the South Alligator River in
Arnhem Land ; that their flight was very noisy, and that their food con-
sisted mainly of the figs of the bon j on tree, the fruit of which is not
bigger than the berries of the mountain ash.

Nest. — Undescribed.

Eggs. — Undescribed.

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

2 3

PLATE IV

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

1. White-tailed Kingfisher T any sip ter a sylvia Gould

T an-y-sip’ -ter-a — Gk, tanysipteros, long-feathered : syl'-vi-a — N.L., sylvia ,
woodland bird.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland; also occurs in New Guinea.
Notes. — A spring and summer migrant to the coastal districts; in-
habits the dense brushes of those areas. Usually in pairs; arrives in No-
vember and departs in February or March, sometimes as late as May. Call-
note, a persistent trilling, not unlike that of the Sacred Kingfisher. Food :
insects and small reptiles.

Nest. — In a hole in a termites’ (white ants) nest in a tree or on the
ground.

Eggs. — Three to four, pure white. Breeding-season: November to
January.

2. Brush Cuckoo Cacomantis pyrrhophanus Vieillot

Cac-o-mari-tis — Gk, cacos, bad; Gk, mantis, prophet: pyr-rho-pha-nus—
Gk, pyrrhos, fire-coloured; Gk, phanos, bright.

Distribution. — Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Northern
Territory, and north-western Australia; also occurs in the Molucca Is-
lands, Timor, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Square-tailed Cuckoo; a migrant, arriving in New
South Wales and Victoria in October and departing during February or
March. Usually singly; inhabits the brushes and dense scrubs; similar
in habits to the Fan-tailed Cuckoo. Food : insects of various kinds, especi-
ally hairy caterpillars.

Parasitic. — Species that build open, cup-shaped nests are usually
selected as foster-parents ; over thirty species have been recorded as hosts
of this Cuckoo.

Egg. — White, with a band round the larger end, blotched and spotted
with faint purplish-brown and lavender markings. Breeding-season : Oc-
tober to January.

3. Rufous Fantail Rhipidura rufifrons Latham

Rhip-id-ur-a — Gk, rhipis, rliipidos, fan; Gk, ura ( oura), tail: ru-fi-frons
— L., rufus , red ; L., frons, forehead.

Distribution. — North-western and northern Australia, and eastern
Australia (from Cape York to Victoria).

24

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes . — A migrant, arriving in New South Wales during October
and departing in February or March. Usually in pairs, frequenting the
brushes and dense scrubs. Similar in habits to the Grey Fantail, but un-
like that species it is often observed on the ground or on fallen logs,
seeking its food. Food: insects, chiefly flies, caught on the wing or on
the ground.

Nest. — Shaped like a wineglass without the foot-piece, composed of
dried grasses and bark-fibre held together with cobwebs, and lined with
finer materials ; the tail-piece is about 2 to 3 inches in length. Built on a
horizontal thin branch of a tree up to 20 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, sometimes three, stone or buff-coloured, with a zone
of lavender round the larger end. Breeding-season: November to Janu-
ary.

4, Boat-billed Flycatcher Macluzrirhynchiis flaviventer Gould

— 4A. Female

Mach-czr'-i-rhynch'-us — Gk, machaira, sword; Gk, rhynchos ( rhugchos ),
beak: flav-i-vcri-ter — L., flavus, yellow; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Cardwell.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-breasted Wherrybill; usually in pairs, in-
habiting the dense scrubs of the coastal areas. A very active and lively
species, constantly on the move, uttering an agreeable twittering song.
Food : insects, caught both on the wing and among the leaves of trees.

Nest. — A saucer-shaped structure, composed of dried stalks of flower-
ing plants, matted together with cobwebs, the inner portion consisting
entirely of fine dried tendrils of plants. Built in the angle of a thin hori-
zontal forked branch of a bushy tree.

Eggs . — Two, white, with a zone of purplish-red spots round the larger
end. Breeding-season: September to December.

5. Pied Flycatcher Arses kaupi Gould

Ar-ses — L., arses, a raising or lifting of the voice or foot: kaupi — J. J.
Kaup, German ornithologist.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland (Cairns district).

Notes. — Also called Kaup’s Flycatcher and Black-breasted Flycatcher.
In pairs, frequenting the dense scrubs; very active, spreading its tail and
erecting the feathers on the nape and crest; it creeps and hops about the
trunks and branches of trees seeking insects, chiefly moths and their
larvae, in the crevices of the bark.

Nest. Like a miniature basket or hammock, attached on two sides to

two thin pendent parallel stems of a vine, composed of thin dried stalks of
ferns and tendrils of plants, bound together with cobwebs, and decorated
with lichen ; lined with fine rootlets. Often built in a tree or in vines, up to
30 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, whitish, spotted, particularly at the larger end, with
reddish and lavender markings. Breeding-season: November to January.

Plate IV

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

25

6. Frill-necked Flycatcher Arses lorealis De Vis
Idr-e-a-lis — L., lorealis, lored.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York).

Notes. — Also called White-lored Flycatcher. Usually in pairs, fre*
quenting the dense scrubs. Similar in habits to the Pied Flycatcher.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Pied Flycatcher.

Eggs. — Two, whitish, spotted with dull and purplish-red markings
Breeding-season : November to January.

7. Black-faced Flycatcher Monarc ha melanopsis Vieillot

Mon-arch' -a — Gk, monarchos, ruler: mel-an-op'-sis — Gk, melas ( mela -
nos), black; Gk, opsis, appearance.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cape York to eastern Vic-
toria; also occurs in Timor and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Carinated Flycatcher. A migrant, arriving in
New South Wales in the spring, departing during February or March; in-
habits brushes and dense scrubs. It is very active, searching for food
among the leaves and branches, or in the air. Call-note, a loud whistle,
“Why-yew, witch-yew.” Food : insects of various kinds.

Nest. — Goblet-shaped, composed of green moss and lined with fine
rootlets. Usually built in a thin forked horizontal or upright forked branch
of a leafy tree, up to 30 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, white, covered, sometimes more at the larger
end, with reddish and lavender spots. Breeding-season: November to

January.

8- Pearly Flycatcher Monarc ha canescens Salvadori
can-es'-cens — L., canescens, becoming hoary.

Distribution. — Cape York Peninsula (northern Queensland).

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting open forest as well as big
scrubs. Similar in habits to the Black-faced Flycatcher.

Nest. — Goblet-shaped, composed of fine strips and flakes of paper
bark, bound together with cobwebs ; lined with vegetable hair.

Eggs. — Three, white, dotted all over with small reddish-brown irre-
gular-shaped spots with a few underlying markings of pale purple, form-
ing a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: January.

9. Spectacled Flycatcher Monarc ha trivirgata Temminck
trl-vw-ga -ta — Gk, tri, three ; L., virgatus, striped.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cape York to north-eastern
New South Wales; also occurs in Timor, the Molucca Islands, and New
Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Black-fronted Flycatcher. Usually in pairs; is a
migrant, arriving in New South Wales late in September and departing

26

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

during February or March. Inhabits the brushes and dense scrubs. Simi-
lar in habits to the Black-faced Flycatcher.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of fine strips of bark
held together with spiders’ webs; lined with fine rootlets and decorated
on the outside with cocoons and moss. Usually built in an upright forked
branch of a low tree or in the fork of a hanging vine, up to 20 feet from
the ground.

Eggs . — Two, dull white, spotted, more so at the larger end, with
purple or reddish-brown markings. Breeding-season: October to

January.

10. White-eared Flycatcher Carterornis leucotis Gould
Carterornis — Tom Carter, Australian ornithologist, born in England :
leuc-dt'-is — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, otos, genitive of ous, ear.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Queensland; also occurs in the
Louisiade Archipelago and New Guinea.

Notes. — In pairs, frequenting coastal scrubs; very active, catching
most of its food on the wing. It hovers about the leaves of the tree-tops,
in much the same manner as the Spinebill Honey-eater does. A very in-
quisitive and noisy bird, calling and chattering incessantly. Food : small
insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed entirely of soft moss,
spiders’ cocoons, and cobwebs ; lined with fine pieces of palm-fibre and
hair-like black fern-stems. Built into the upright fork of a small shrub
at about 10 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, whitish, evenly dotted all over with small but irregular
spots of reddish-brown. (Type clutch taken on Fraser Island, Queens-
land, October 1930).

11. White-breasted Robin Quoyornis georgianus Quoy and Gaimard
Quoyornis — Jean Rene Quoy (1790-1869), French scientist and explorer
associated with Gaimard: georgianus — King George’s Sound, Western
Australia.

Distribution. — South-western Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting the dense scrubs; it is a very shy
species, clinging to the bark of upright tree-trunks and branches in search
of food ; its call-notes resemble “Kawhow, kawhow, whowah, whow,” ut-
tered loudly. Food : insects.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark, fine
twigs, and leaves; lined with fine rootlets and grass.

Eggs. — Two, olive or bronze-green, darker at the larger end.
Breeding-season : October.

12. Grey-headed Robin Heteromyias cinereifrons Ramsay
Het'-er-o-my-i-as — Gk, lieteros, other; Gk, myia , fly: cin-er-e-i-frons — L.,
cinereus, ashen; L., frons, forehead.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cardwell district).

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

27

Notes. — Also called Ashy-fronted Robin; usually in pairs, frequent-
ing the densely timbered ranges; it is seldom seen at any great height
from the ground. Similar in habits to the Yellow Robin. Food : insects of
various kinds and their larvae.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, neatly composed of very fine rootlets
moss; lined with fibre from the lawyer-vine. Usually built between the
forked stems of a lawyer-vine.

Eggs. — One, rarely two, greenish or buffy-white, marked with heavy
blotches of umber and underlying markings of lavender, chiefly at the
larger end. Breeding-season: September to January.

13. White-browed Robin Poecilodryas superciliosa Gould

P oe' -cil-o-dry -as — Gk, poicilos, mottled ; Gk, dryas, a dryad : su-per-cil-i -
os’ -a — L., superciliosus, browed.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern Queensland.

Notes . — Usually in pairs, frequenting the margins of scrubs; it is
similar in habits to the Yellow Robin, but much shyer. Food : insects.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of twigs and grass, matted
together with cobwebs; lined with fibre.

Eggs. — Two, pale greenish, spotted and blotched with purplish-brown
or chestnut with underlying markings of lavender. Breeding-season: Oc-
tober to January.

14. Buff-sided Robin Poecilodryas cerviniventris Gould
cer-zn-ni-ven -tris — L., cenrinus, coloured like a stag; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — North-western Australia to western Queensland (from
Derby to Gregory River).

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting brushes and mangroves; it is
very tame, and feeds on the ground, but also searches the tree-trunks for
food. Call-note, a loud piping whistle, repeated four times. Food : insects
and their larvae.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of twigs, rootlets, and
and tendrils, and decorated with strips of bark.

Eggs. — Two, pale green, banded on the larger end with blotches of
reddish-brown, some of which are distributed over the surface. Breeding-
season: October to December (north-western Australia).

15. Northern Yellow Robin Eopsaltria chrysorrhoa Gould
E-op-sal’ -tri-a — Gk, eos, dawn; psaltria, harper: chrys-orr(h)’-o-a —
Gk, chrysos , golden; Gk, orrhos, tail.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Queensland and north-eastern
New South Wales.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting the brushes and big scrubs. Simi-
lar in habits to the Eastern Yellow Robin, but less confiding.

Nest . — Similar to that of the Eastern Yellow Robin.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the Eastern Yellow Robin.

28

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

16. Pale Yellow Robin Eopsaltria capito Gould
cap'-it-o — L., capito , big-headed.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cairns to the Hunter River.

Notes. — Also called Large-headed Robin. Usually in pairs, inhabit-
ing the brushes and big scrubs. It is very quiet in habits, and has a low
twittering call-note; its food is caught on the wing or on the ground.
Food : insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of pieces of bark and leaves
matted together with cobwebs ; lined with fibre, and decorated outside with
lichen. Built in lawyer-vines up to 30 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, greenish-white, dotted and blotched with yellowish or
chestnut-brown markings, particularly on the larger end. Breeding-season:
September to December.

17. White-faced Robin Eopsaltria leucops Salvadori
leuc-ops — Gk, leucos , white; Gk, ops , face.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to the Claudie
River; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called White-throated Robin or Fly Robin. In pairs,
inhabiting thick scrubs, where it is very quiet; call-note, a short, harsh
“Chee-chee-chee,” uttered occasionally.

Nest. — A compact, cup-shaped structure, composed of fine strips of
bark and fibres ; lined with fine fibres, and decorated outside with pieces of
whitepaper-bark. Built in lawyer-vines.

Eggs. — Two, greenish-white, marked all over with reddish dots or
spots, which are closer together on the larger end. Breeding-season : De-
cember to January.

18. Golden Whistler Pachycephala pect oralis Latham — 18A. Female
Pacli-y-ceph'-al-a — Gk, pachys, thick; Gk, cephale , head: pec-tor-a-lis —
L., pectoralis , breasted.

Distribution. — North-eastern Queensland, New South Wales, Vic-
toria, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-breasted Whistler, White-throated
Whistler, Thickhead, Thunder-bird, Cut-throat, and Coachwhip-bird. Usu-
ally in pairs, inhabiting brushes, thick scrub, or open forest. It has a rich,
sweet, and varied song. It obtains most of its food among the leaves and
branches of the trees. Food: insects of various kinds and native seeds
and berries.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of rootlets, plant-stems, and
leaves; lined with finer materials. Usually built in an upright forked
branch of a tree at various heights up to 12 feet or more from the
ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, stone-coloured or white, speckled with umber-
brown, forming a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to
December.

BIRDS OF THE BRUSHES AND BIG SCRUBS

29

19. Olive Whistler Pachycephala olivacea Vigors and Horsfield
ol-iv-a-ce-a — L., olivaceus , olive-coloured.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria, Tasmania, and the
islands of Bass Strait.

Notes.— Also called Olive Thickhead and Native Thrush. Usually in
pairs, inhabiting dense scrubs, more especially those of the ranges ; it is
shy, preferring the seclusion of the thickets; its call-note resembles “Peee-
ee-pooooo” ; other notes have a sharp, crack-like ending. Food : insects of
various kinds, also seeds and berries.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, loosely constructed of strips of bark
and fine twigs; lined with finer materials. Usually built in an upright
forked branch of a tree.

Eggs.— Two or three, pale yellowish-white, sparsely dotted and
blotched with dull grey and umber markings. Breeding-season : Septem-
ber to January.

20. Rufous Shrike-thrush Colluricincla megarhyncha Quoy and

Gaimard

Coll-u-ri-cinc -la — Gk, collurion, shrike; Gk, cinclos, bird (thrush) : meg-
a-rhyncK-a — Gk, me gas ( megalos ), large; Gk, rhynchos ( rhugchos ), beak.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland to north-eastern New South
Wales; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Rufous-breasted Shrike-thrush and Red Thrush.
Usually in pairs, inhabiting the brushes and big scrubs; it is very active
and graceful, and has a pleasing series of call-notes, one of which resembles
“Tu-whee-wot-wot” ; it is also a fine mimic. Food : insects of various kinds,
mostly procured on the ground.

Nest. — A large, cup-shaped structure, composed of dried leaves, strips
of bark, and rootlets ; lined with fine rootlets, plant-stems, and grass. Usu-
ally built in a bush or tree or in a mass of vines.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale pinkish- white, heavily spotted and blotched
with reddish-brown and dull purplish-grey markings, chiefly at the larger
end. Breeding-season: September to January.

21. Bower Shrike-thrush Colluricincla bozveri Ramsay

boweri — Thomas Henry Bowyer-Bower (1862-1886), a British collector.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland (Cairns to Cardwell).

Notes. — Also called Stripe-breasted Shrike-thrush. Usually in pairs,
frequenting big scrubs of the ranges. Food : insects.

Nest. — A large, cup-shaped structure, composed of dead leaves, bark,
and plant-stems ; lined with fine rootlets. Usually placed in a dense mass
of foliage or lawyer-vines, up to 25 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale pinkish-white or creamy-white, spotted and
blotched with dark olive or reddish-brown and dull slate markings. Breed-
ing-season : October to December.

D

30

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

22. Eastern Whip-bird Psophodes olivaceus Latham

Psoph-o-des — Gk, psophodes, noisy: ol-iv-a-ce-us — L., olivaceus, olive-
coloured.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from northern Queensland to Vic-
toria.

Notes. — Also called Coachwhip-bird. Usually in pairs, inhabiting the
brushes and scrubs, and also the coastal thickets; a shy bird, seeking the
seclusion of the undergrowth, spending a considerable time on the
ground, turning over fallen leaves and debris for insects. Its name is de-
rived from its extraordinary call-notes — two soft drawn-out whistles end-
ing on a loud “whipcrack” note, followed instantly by two notes — “Chew,
chew,” which are generally uttered by the female, or occasionally by the
male. Food: insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A loosely built, cup-shaped structure, composed of rootlets,
and lined with finer materials. Usually built in a low bush or among the
undergrowth.

Eggs. — Two, pale blue or bluish-white, spotted with irregular mark-
ings of black and lavender. Breeding-season: August to January.

23. Western Whip-bird Psophodes nigrogularis Gould
ni-gro-gu-la-ris — L., niger, black; L., gularis, throated.

Distribution. — South-western Australia and Mallee of Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Black-throated Coachwhip-bird and Rain-bird. It
once inhabited the tea-tree scrubs adjacent to the coast, but has not been
observed for many years.

Nest. — A small, saucer-shaped structure, composed of twigs, and
placed in low scrubby undergrowth.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the Eastern Whip-bird, but smaller.

Note. — Mallee Whip-bird Psophodes nigrogularis leucogaster Howe and
Ross.

Nest. — A fairly large bowl-shaped structure of bark, lined with fine
wiry grass, some dead, some green ; outside the nest proper is a thick layer
of broom twigs, interwoven with sprigs of green broom tips and tea-tree,
more particularly about the rim. Average measurement externally is five
inches in diameter by four inches in depth ; egg-cavity three inches across
by two and one half inches deep. Placed about a foot from the ground
in a dense bush.

Eggs. — Two, delicate shade of blue, one egg being slightly paler in
colour than the other, marked with fine black and umber spots, the latter
colour appearing as if beneath the surface of the shell. Some markings
about the larger end assume a scrawling character, and others are hiero-
glyphic in nature. Type — clutch taken at Manya, north-eastern Victoria,
in September, 1920.

Plate V

NOCTURNAL BIRDS

NOCTURNAL BIRDS

3i

PLATE V

NOCTURNAL BIRDS

1. Barn Owl Tyto alba Scopoli

Ty-to — Gk, tyto, night owl : al'-ba — L., albus, white.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania (cosmopolitan).

Notes. — Also called Delicate Owl, Screech Owl, and Lesser Masked
Owl. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting forest-lands generally.
During the day it roosts in a hollow in a tree ; such a hollow is also used
as a nesting-place. It also frequents as resting-places, wool-sheds, lofts,
stables, and other out-buildings, and occasionally a leafy canopy in some
thick bush. Its call is a loud screeching note, difficult to describe in words.
Food: rats, mice, bats, small birds, and insects, chiefly beetles.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Three to seven, dull white, oval in form. Breeding-season:
August to December.

2. Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa Gould
ten-e-bric-o-sa — L., tenebricosus , dark.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, eastern New South Wales,
eastern Victoria, and the islands of Bass Strait; also occurs in New Guinea.
Notes. — Nothing has yet been recorded of the habits of this species.
Nest. — In a hollow in a tree.

Eggs . — Three, white and rounded. Breeding-season : October,

November, December.

3. Masked Owl Tyto novce-hollandice Stephens
novce-hollandice, of New Holland.

Distribution . — Australia generally.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting forest-lands generally.
During the day it roosts in hollows in trees or among thick leafy foliage ;
occasionally it takes up its abode near homesteads. At night its screeching
usually attracts attention. Food: rodents (chiefly rabbits) and small
mammals.

Nest. — In a large hollow in a tree or in a cliff.

Eggs. — Probably two, pearly-white. Breeding-season: December is
the only month recorded.

32

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

4. Cave Owl Tyto novce-hollanditz troughtoni sub.-sp. nov.
troughtoni — Ellis Le G. Troughton, Mammologist, Australian Museum,
Sydney.

Distribution. — Nullarbor Plain (South Australia).

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting the Nullarbor Plain.
It roosts and nests in blow-holes and underground caves, venturing forth
at night in search of prey. Food: small lizards, small mammals, and
rodents.

Nest. — In a blow-hole, eggs deposited on the bare sand.

Eggs. — Two, white and oval, texture of shell coarse, with a faint
gloss. Eggs taken on the Nullarbor Plains, in November, 1931.

Description. — Type, adult female, collected at Ooldea, East-West
Line, South Australia, by Messrs Troughton and Wright on 16 October
1921, Registered Number 026568, Australian Museum, Sydney. Differs
from the typical Masked Owl (Tyto novce-hollandioe) in its smaller size,
lighter coloration on the back, and in having fewer spots on the under-
parts. Measurements : total length, 460 mm. ; wing, 326 ; culmen, 26 ; tail,
161 ; tarsus, 75.

Females of the Masked Owl are noticeably larger and darker than
the males; the type of the Cave Owl, however, which is a female, is com-
parable to an average-sized male of the Masked Owl.

5. Tasmanian Masked Owl Tyto castanops Gould
cas -tan-ops — Gk, castanon, chestnut; Gk, ops, face.

Distribution. — Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Chestnut-faced Owl. Usually singly or in pairs,
frequenting forests of large and thinly scattered trees skirting open coun-
try. It is similar in habits and economy to the Masked Owl. The sexes
differ considerably in size, the female being larger, more powerful, and
darker in coloration than the male.

Nest. — In a hollow in a tree or in a cliff.

Eggs. — Not recorded.

6. Grass Owl Tyto longimembris Jerdon
lon-gi-m em- bris — L. , longus, long; L., membrum, limb.

Distribution. — Northern Territory, Queensland, New South Wales,
and Victoria; also occurs in India, China, the Philippine Islands, New

Caledonia, and Fiji. . ,

Notes. — Usually singly, frequenting grass-lands, chiefly of the coastal
areas Very little has been recorded of its habits. It rests during the day
in “squats” or “hides” under a tussock of grass. Food: rodents, large
insects, and frogs.

Nest. — Under or in a tussock of grass.

Eggs. — Usually four, white, oval in form. Breeding-season: May

to July.

NOCTURNAL BIRDS

33

7. Owlet-nightjar / Egotheles cristata Shaw

JEg-o-thel'-es — Gk, aigotheles, goatsucker : cris-ta-ta — L., cristatus, crested.

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in New
Guinea and New Caledonia.

Notes. — Also called Little Nightjar, Banded Goatsucker, Crested
Goatsucker, and Moth Owl. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting forest-
lands generally. During the day it resorts to hollows in trees, sallying
forth in quest of insects (chiefly moths and beetles) as night approaches.
When disturbed in its roosting hollow, it utters a loud churring noise, and
often while it is “hawking” one hears the same call.

Nest . — In a hole in a tree or stump ; lined with leaves.

Eggs . — Three or four, white and rounded, occasionally spotted.
Breeding-season : September to December.

8. Marbled Frogmouth Podargus ocellatus Quoy and Gaimard

Po-daP-gus — from Fr. podarge of Cuvier, probably for le podarge, gouty
foot: o-cell-d f -tus — L., ocellatus , marked with little eyes (spotted).

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York Peninsula) ; also
occurs in New Guinea.

Notes . — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting the thick scrubs.
During the day it shelters among masses of vines or other tangled vegeta-
tion. At night it hunts in the scrub. Call-note, a monotonously repeated
“Kooloo, kooloo, kooloo.” Food: insects, chiefly beetles.

Nest. — A flat platform of twigs, placed on a branch of a tree grow-
ing in thick scrub.

Eggs. — Two, white and rounded. Breeding-season: October is the
only month recorded.

9. Plumed Frogmouth Podargus plumiferus Gould
plu-mif-er-us — L., pluma , feather ; L., fero , I bear.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New
South Wales.

Notes. — This rare species is an inhabitant of the brushes, and so far,
nothing has been recorded of its habits.

Nest. — A flat platform of sticks, placed on a branch of a tree at about
twenty feet from the ground. A box-tree is generally selected as a nesting-
site, and the nest is built of sticks broken off the boughs which overhang
the nesting-site.

Eggs. — Two or three, glossy white and rather rounded. Breeding-
season : not recorded.

10. Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides Latham
strig-did'-es — Gk, strigos , owl ; Gk, -tides, from eidos , form «= like.

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

34

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Tawny-shouldered Frogmouth, Tawny-

shouldered Podargus and Mopoke. Usually singly or in pairs, frequent-
ing forest-lands generally. It is strictly nocturnal, sleeping in an upright
position throughout the day on a branch of a tree. When at rest it
simulates the bark of the branch so well that it is often difficult to locate.
Its call is a low booming or grunting note like “Oom,” repeated twenty or
more times, and easily imitated by closing the mouth and making a grunt-
ing sound through the nose. Food: insects.

Nest . — An open platform, composed of sticks loosely put together.
Generally placed in a horizontal forked branch of a tree up to 40 feet
from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, white and rounded. Breeding-season: August
to December.

11. Papuan Frogmouth Podargus papuensis Quoy and Gaimard
papuensis — of Papua or New Guinea.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (from Cape York to Cairns) ;
also occurs in New Guinea and the Aru Islands.

Notes. — Also called Large Frogmouth and Plumed Frogmouth.
Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open forests and scrubs. During
the day it rests in an upright “dead-stick” attitude on a branch. At times
it utters a weird and ghostly “laugh” — a rapid “Hoo-hoo-hoo” ; it also has
a call like the Tawny Frogmouth, a series of “Ooms,” uttered for long
periods at night. Food : insects, chiefly beetles.

Nest. — A compactly-built platform of sticks and twigs; generally
placed in a horizontal forked branch of a tree up to 50 feet from the
ground.

Egg. — White and rounded. Breeding-season : September to December,
sometimes as late as February.

12. Boobook Owl Ninox boobook Latham

Ni'-nox — ni, definition not known; L., nox, night: boobook — an aborig-
inal name.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Cuckoo Owl and Mopoke. Usually singly or in
pairs, frequenting forests generally. During the day it roosts in a hollow
in a tree, in the crevice of a rock, or under the thick foliage of a tree. At
dusk it ventures forth and searches for food, which consists of insects,
small rodents, and small birds. It utters the well-known call resembling
“Mo-poke,” “More pork,” or “Boo-book !”

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Three or four, white and rounded. Breeding-season: Sep-
tember to December or January.

13. Spotted Owl Ninox novce-zeelandice Gmelin
novce-zeelandice — of New Zealand.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania; also
occurs in New Zealand.

NOCTURNAL BIRDS

35

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting the thick scrubs. It
is similar in habits and economy to the Boobook Owl. It utters the
“Mopoke” call, but not quite as loud as the call of the Boobook Owl.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Two or three, white and rounded. Breeding-season : October
to January.

14. Red Boobook Owl Ninox lurida De Vis
lu-rid-a — L., luridus, red.

Distribution . — N orth-eastern Queensland.

Notes. — This species inhabits the big scrubs, and is considered rare.
It keeps to the darkest and thickest growths during the day, and at dusk
flies out into the open areas. Its call is “Mopoke,” often repeated. Food :
insects, rodents, and small birds.

Nest. — Not recorded.

Eggs. — Not recorded.

15. Northern Boobook Owl Ninox ocellata Bonaparte
o-cell-a-ta — L., ocellatus , marked with little eyes (spotted).

Distribution. — North-western Australia and northern Queensland;
also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes . — Also called Fawn-bellied Owl and Marbled Owl. Usually
singly or in pairs, frequenting open forests and scrubs, chiefly in the
neighbourhood of watercourses. It is similar in habits to the Boobook
Owl. Food : insects, rodents, and small birds.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, white and rounded. Breeding-season: Sep-
tember to January.

16. Winking Owl Ninox connivens Latham
con-niv -ens — L., connivens , winking.

Distribution. — Australia generally; also occurs in New Guinea and
the Molucca Islands.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open forest-lands,
brushes, and scrubs. During the day it rests in a hollow in a tree or
among thick foliage. When disturbed, it utters a growling noise. Its
cad varies from “Ho-wuk-wuk” or “Keow” when mating, to “Karr, karr,
karr, karr, koo-wock” when hawking for insects. Food: insects (chiefly
beetles and grasshoppers) ; also mammals and birds.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree; occasionally in a rabbit-
burrow.

Eggs. — Two or three, white and rounded. Breeding-season : August,
September, October.

17. Rufous Owl Ninox rufa Gould
ru-fa — L., rufus, red.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, and
northern Queensland; also occurs in New Guinea.

36

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes , — Little has been recorded of the habits of this fine Owl.
During the day it inhabits, for the most part, the big scrubs, hunting at
night in the open forest. This species has a low call-note, “Hoo-hoooo,”
repeated at intervals. Food : chiefly insects and small mammals.

Nest. — In a hollow in a tree.

Eggs . — Two or three, white and rounded. Breeding-season: July and
the following months.

18. Powerful Owl Ninox strenua Gould
streri-u-a — L., strenuus, powerful.

Distribution . — Eastern Queensland, eastern New South Wales, and
eastern and southern Victoria.

Notes . — Also called Great Scrub Owl. Usually singly or in pairs,
inhabiting the brushes and big scrubs. It rests during the day in hollows
in trees or under a canopy of leaves; when disturbed, it flies away with
remarkable swiftness. Its call is a hideous scream, not easily forgotten.
Food : birds and mammals.

Nest , — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree growing in dense scrub.

Eggs . — Two or three, white and rounded. Breeding-season: Novem-
ber is the only month recorded.

MOUND-BUILDING BIRDS

37

PLATE VI

MOUND-BUILDING BIRDS

1- Lyretail Menura Menura novce-hollandice Latham — 1A. Female

Men-ur-a — Gk, me nos, might ; Gk, our a, tail: novce-hotlandice — of New
Holland.

Distribution. — South-eastern Australia, from Stanthorpe (southern
Queensland) to Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Superb Lyre-bird, Lyre-bird, and Native
Pheasant. The vernacular name above, being more appropriate, has been
adopted. Generally observed singly, occasionally in pairs, inhabiting the
brushes and big scrubs. It is the king of all bird mimics, imitating most of
the calls of other species of birds in its locality, as well as sounds produced
through human agency. It has several calls of its own, the chief of which
is a resounding “Choo ! choo ! choo !” usually uttered at daybreak, or as a
prelude to a bush-bird concert, when it is not unusual for a Lyretail, male
or female, to imitate as many as twenty different calls of birds. It is a
very shy bird, and is more often heard than seen, the male especially
being always difficult to approach. The male builds for himself “dancing,”
“display,” or “scratching” mounds, which are low hillocks about 3 feet
across, which he rakes up in the damp soil of the scrubs. As a rule, he
makes a series of these mounds and visits them in turn, stopping long
enough at each to display and give his repertoire of calls. A male in
display is a magnificent spectacle, and it is then only that the observer
sees his beautiful lyre-shaped tail to advantage. The tail is spread like
an opened fan over his back and head, thus showing the light under-
colouring of the feathers, which contrasts with the rather sombre colouring
above. The tasks of nest-building, incubating the egg, and rearing the
young one are performed entirely by the female, and it is doubtful if the
male ever visits the nest. During the day the Lyretail spends its time on the
ground scratching among the fallen leaves and debris, or tearing rotten logs
to pieces in search of food, which consists of insects of various kinds,
worms, land crustaceans, and small land molluscs. At night it roosts high
up in the branches of tall trees. Truly it is the world’s wonder bird.

Nest. — A bulky structure with an entrance at the side, composed
outwardly of sticks, twigs, dried fern leaves, and mosses, with an inner
wall neatly made of wiry rootlets and bark-fibre; lined with long downy
feathers from the flanks and back of the bird. Usually built on a ledge
of rock, in the end of a hollow log, in a hole in a stump, on top of a lean-
ing tree-fern, or between the trunks of two small trees.

38

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Egg. — Varying from a light stone-grey to deep purplish-brown, hav-
ing short streaks, spots, and blotches of different shades of deep slaty-
grey and dark blackish-brown equally distributed over the surface. Some
eggs have well-defined zones at the larger end. Breeding-season: nidi-
fication usually begins late in May or early in June, the egg being laid
in July, while the young Ly retail leaves the nest about the end of
September.

2. Albert Menura Menura alberti Bonaparte — 2 A. Female
albert's — Albert, Prince Consort of Queen Victoria.

Distribution . — Southern Queensland and north-eastern New South
Wales, from the Macpherson Range to the Richmond River.

Notes. — Also called Albert’s Lyre-bird, Prince Albert’s Lyre-bird, and
Northern Lyre-bird. Mostly singly, occasionally in pairs, inhabiting a
very restricted area of dense scrubs and brushes. It is very similar in
habits and economy to the Lyretail Menura, and has the same powers
of mimicry, some observers stating that it is the better mimic.

Nest. — A large, dome-shaped structure, outwardly formed of sticks
and twigs, dried ferns, mosses, and black hair-like rootlets, the inside of
the nest being lined with downy feathers ; it is not unlike the nest of the
Lyretail Menura. A favourite nesting site is between the large buttressed
roots of a fig-tree.

Egg. — Very similar to the egg of the Lyretail Menura. Breeding-
season: June and July.

3. Brush Turkey Alectura lathami Gray

Al-ect-ur-a — Gk, alector , cock; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail: lathami — Dr John
Latham (1740-1837), English ornithologist, who published in 1801 the
first important work on Australian birds.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cape York to as far south
as the Illawarra district (New South Wales).

Notes. — Also called Scrub Turkey and Wattled Talegallus. Usually
in pairs or small parties, inhabiting the brushes and big scrubs. At one
time this interesting species was plentiful in the brushes of the Illawarra
district, but it is doubtful if any exist there now. It is an active bird,
spending most of its time on the ground, scratching among the fallen
leaves and debris for insect-life. When flushed, it partly runs and flies,
covering the ground with great rapidity, and only occasionally will it seek
refuge in trees except for roosting at night. Food: insects of various
kinds and their larvas and native fruits and seeds.

Nest. — A large mound of earth, leaves, sticks, and debris, raked to-
gether from the surrounding surface of the ground. These natural incu-
bators vary in size according to age or to the number of birds occupying
them; a new mound usually measures from 7 to 10 feet in diameter, by
about’ 3 feet in height; an old one may measure as much as 30 feet in
diameter by 6 feet in height. Nesting mounds are repaired (scratched

Plate VI

One foof

MOUND-BUILDING BIRDS

MOUND-BUILDING BIRDS

39

over) and added to each breeding-season. The eggs are deposited on
end (the larger end uppermost) in holes about 18 inches to 2 feet deep,
and are then covered over. The young are fully feathered when hatched,
and fight their way out of the mound unassisted.

Eggs. — White when first deposited in the mound, soon becoming
soiled and stained. The clutch varies from seven to twelve, but as many
as thirty or more have been taken from a mound, such a number being
the result of two or three birds laying in the same mound. Breeding-
season : September to January, and sometimes as late as March.

4. Mallee Fowl Leipoa ocellata Gould

Leip-o-a — Gk, leipein, to leave; Gk, oon (plural oa ), egg: o-cell-a-ta — L.,
ocellatus , marked with little eyes.

Distribution. — Southern Australia and the inland portions of New
South Wales, north-western Victoria, South Australia to south-western
Australia.

Notes. — Also called Lowan, Gnow, Mallee Hen, Pheasant, and Native
Pheasant. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting the dry inland scrubs
(the mallee country chiefly). Owing to its shy disposition and wary
nature, it is seldom seen. Its flesh is much sought after as an article of
food, and although protected, it is frequently shot. The food of this
species consists chiefly of berries, seeds, and insects and their larvse.
This valuable and interesting bird is in grave danger of extermination,
because of the depredations of the introduced fox.

Nest . — A large mound of leaves and grass covered with gravel, sand,
and debris, and raised into a pyramidal heap. An opening is made in the
fermenting material into which the eggs are deposited in the form of a
circle; a full clutch generally consists of three layers. Nesting- mounds
are usually constructed in situations exposed to the sunshine.

Eggs. — The number of eggs varies from six to twelve, probably two
birds lay in the same mound. When fresh they are a delicate pink, but
soon become soiled and stained a dull reddish-brown. Breeding-season:
September to February or March.

5. Scrub Fowl Megapodius reinwardt Dumont

Meg-a-pod'-ius — Gk, me gas , large; Gk, pus (pous), podos , foot: rein-
wardt — Reinwardt, Dutch collector in the East Indies.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, from Kimberley (north-western
Australia), to Yeppoon (Queensland) ; also found from Lombok to New
Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Scrub Hen and Jungle Fowl. Usually in pairs
or small parties, frequenting the scrubs of the coastal districts. It is
cautious in habits and, when disturbed, it will either run, or fly clumsily
and settle on the lower branch of a tree. It has a peculiarly harsh and
loud cry, uttered at break of day, and often during the night while at
roost. Food : native fruits, berries, seeds, and the young shoots of many
kinds of trees and shrubs.

40

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest . — An immense nesting-mound, consisting of sand, leaves, sticks,
and debris of all sorts, raked into a heap from the surrounding surface of
the ground. The sites selected are generally in the densest part of the
scrub, sheltered above by large trees. The mounds vary in size according
to the time they have been in use ; usually they measure about 40 or 50
feet in circumference and 12 or 15 feet in height. The eggs are deposited
on their ends (the larger end upwards) in holes scratched out of the
mound, at depths varying from 18 inches to 3 feet.

Eggs . — Six or eight appears to be a normal clutch; when newly laid
they are a pale pinkish-brown, soon passing into a light coffee-brown, and
becoming darker after being in the mound a few days. Breeding-season:
September to December or January.

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

4i

PLATE VII

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

1. Nullarbor Quail-thrush Cinclosoma alisteri Mathews — 1A. Female
Cin-clo-soni-a — Gk, cinclos ( kigklos ), bird; Gk, soma , body: alisteri —
Alister, son of Gregory M. Mathews, ornithologist.

Distribution . — Western Australia (Nullarbor Plain).

Notes. — Also called Black-breasted Ground-bird. In pairs or family
parties, according to the season of the year; it is very shy and difficult
to approach, and keeps out of sight in the shelter of bushes. When
flushed, it rises with a “whirring” noise of the wings, flies a short distance,
and then alights seeking further cover. Food : chiefly insects.

Nest. — An excavation in the ground, neatly lined with dried grasses,
the rim being finished off with a thick edging of coarse herbage. Usually
placed at the foot of a dead blue-bush.

Eggs. — Three, dull creamy-white with a very faint greenish tinge,
spotted and blotched all over with olive-brown and slaty-grey markings,
more numerous at the larger end. Breeding-season : October is the only
month on record.

2. Cinnamon Quail-thrush Cinclosoma cinnamomeum Gould — 2A.

Female

cin-na-mom-e-um — L., cinnamomeus , cinnamon.

Distribution. — The interior of Australia, and South Australia (Gawler
Ranges).

Notes. — Also called Cinnamon Ground-bird and Cinnamon Ground-
thrush. Usually in pairs or family parties; lives in the most arid stony
country, where the colours of its plumage closely harmonize with the
surroundings. During early morning it roams the open country seeking
food, but keeps to the shelter of low dense bushes during the heat of
the day. Food : chiefly insects.

Nest. — Open cup-shaped, formed of a few twigs and dead leaves;
placed at the foot of a low bush.

Eggs. — Two, greyish- white to brownish-grey, marked with large
blotches and longitudinal streaks of umber brown and a few underlying
markings of dull bluish-grey. Breeding-season: March, April.

3. Chestnut Quail-thrush Cinclosoma castanotum Gould
cas-ta-not'-um — Gk, castanon, shortened to casta, chestnut; Gk, noton,
back.

Distribution. — Interior of New South Wales, south-western Queens-
land, Victoria, and South Australia; also south-western Australia and
central Australia.

42

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Chestnut-backed Ground-bird and Chestnut-
backed Ground-thrush. Usually in pairs or family parties. It is shy and
local in habits ; when flushed it rises with a “whirr,” flies a short distance,
and alights on the ground or on a low limb of a tree. Frequents alike
open forest country, mallee, “marlock,” and mulga scrubs. Call-note, a
low piping whistle. Food: chiefly insects. The female is duller than the
male, the throat and chest being grey.

Nest. — A depression in the ground, loosely lined with twigs, strips of
bark, and dead leaves; sheltered by a dead bush.

Eggs. — Two, dull white or greyish- white, spotted all over, more so
at the larger end, with brown and lavender markings. Breeding-season:
August to December.

4. Chestnut-breasted Quail-thrush Cinclosoma castaneothorax Gould
cos-tan -e-o-tho' -rax — L., castaneus, chestnut; Gk, thorax , chest.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland, inland to north-western Aus-
tralia, and Western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Chestnut-breasted Ground-thrush. Little is
known of the habits of this rare species except that it frequents scrubby
belts of trees; when flushed it is difficult to find again. The female is
duller in colour than the male.

Nest. — Not described.

Eggs. — A. J. North describes an egg said to be of this species as dull
white, thickly sprinkled with irregular shaped dots, spots, and small
blotches of blackish-brown, intermingled with similar underlying markings
of inky-grey, which predominate on the larger end.

5. Spotted Quail-thrush Cinclosoma punctatum Shaw
punc-ta-tum — L., punctatus , spotted.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria,
South Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. Also called Spotted Ground-bird, Ground-thrush, Ground-

dove, and Babbling-thrush. Usually in pairs or family parties; local in
habits. It is rather a shy species, and when flushed rises like a Quail,
flies a short distance away, and either alights on the ground or on a limb
of a tree. Food: chiefly insects, procured on the ground under debris.
The female is duller in colour than the male, has the throat white,
the spot on the side of the neck is light rufous, but lacks the black band
across the breast.

Nest . — Cup-shaped, loosely put together, and composed of strips of
bark, leaves, and grasses; lined with softer materials. Usually built at the
foot ’of a tree, near a rock or log, or hidden against a tuft of grass or
low bush.

Eggs —Two, sometimes three, dull white, spotted all over with dark
brown and lavender markings. Breeding-season: August to February.

Plate VII

' 1

■- 1 r~

\ ' 1 J

| ’ | 1 1

i 1 1

/

2

3

5 6 7 8

One Foot

9 fO //

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

43

6. Rainbow Pitta Pitta iris Gould

Pit'-ta — N.L., pitta , a bird: t-ris, Gk, iris, the rainbow.

Distribution . — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes . — Inhabits the dense bamboo jungles, mangroves, and scrubs
near the coast, through which it runs with ease ; the boldness and richness
of its markings make it a most attractive bird.

Nest. — A large, covered structure with an entrance at the side, com-
posed of dead strips of bamboo leaves and other plant sheaths, loosely put
together ; built in the mangroves or in clumps of bamboo at about 6 feet
from the ground; occasionally on the ground.

Egg?- — Four, creamy- white, dotted, spotted, and sparingly blotched
with sepia and underlying markings of dull purplish-grey. Breeding-sea-
son: January to March.

7. Noisy Pitta Pitta versicolor Swainson
ver'-si-col-or — L., versicolor, different coloured.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cape York to northern New
South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Dragoon-bird. Inhabits the dense brushes and
big scrubs; very inquisitive and will answer an imitation of its call-notes —
“Walk to work” or “Want a watch.” It lives almost entirely on the
ground, feeding on land snails, slugs, and insects. The “breaking-ground”
is a stone or small stump, where it breaks the shells of land snails.

Nest. — A large, dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side,
composed of thin sticks, twigs, and green mosses; built on the ground,
usually between the buttresses of a fig-tree.

Eggs. — Three to five, usually four, creamy-white, spotted and blotched
with blackish-brown and underlying markings of bluish-grey. Breeding-
season: October to December or January.

8. Blue-breasted Pitta Pitta mackloti Temminck
mackloti — Macklot, a Dutch traveller.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Cardwell;
also occurs in New Guinea, the Aru Islands, Malaysia, and Java.

Notes . — It is a migrant, arriving in Australia about October, probably
from New Guinea. Inhabits the dense scrubs, where it hops along the
ground with great rapidity. Its call is a mournful whistle of two notes
like “Wantok watch ;” it is said to be a perfect ventriloquist.

Nest . — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side, com-
posed of twigs and leaves; lined with fine, hair-like fibres. It is usually
built on a stump or in a mass of vines as high as 8 feet from the ground.

Eggs . — Three to four, creamy-white, dotted, spotted, and blotched
with purplish-brown and underlying markings of bluish-grey. Breeding-
season : October to December.

44

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

9. Black-breasted Quail Turnix melanogaster Gould

Tur'-nix — L., turnix , quail: meV -an-o-gas'-ter — Gk, melas ( melanos ),
black; Gk, gaster , belly.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Rockingham Bay to northern
New South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Black-fronted Quail. A very rare species; in-
habits the thick scrubs, rarely going beyond the outer fringes of the scrub.
It is similar in habits to the Painted Quail. The bird figured is a female ;
the male has a brown crown and a whitish throat.

Nest. — A depression in the ground under a low bush or tussock of
grass ; lined with grasses.

Eggs. — Three or four, pale buffy-white, minutely and thickly freckled
all over with light vinous-brown, with which are intermingled spots and
blotches of chestnut-brown, purplish-grey, and black, also underlying
markings of faint lilac-grey. Breeding-season: probably February or
March.

10. Painted Quail Turnix varia Latham
var-i-a — L., varius, different.

Distribution. — Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Aus-
tralia, Western Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Varied Quail, Scrub Quail, and Dotterel Quail.
Inhabits open forest, heath-lands, lightly timbered ridges, also big scrub,
and is usually in pairs or family parties. It is partly nocturnal, and has a
booming note somewhat resembling that of the Bronze-wing Pigeon. The
female is slightly larger than the male.

Nest. — A shallow depression, scratched in the ground; thinly lined
with fine dried grasses, and placed beneath the shelter of a tuft of grass,
low bush, or rank herbage.

Eggs. — Usually four, faint buffy to greyish- white, almost obscured
with freckles, dots, and spots of chestnut or wood-brown, dull violet, and
slaty-grey markings. Breeding-season: September to February (eastern

Australia).

11. Chowchilla (Northern Log-runner) Orthonyx spaldingi Ramsay

— 11 A. Female

Or-thon-yx—G. k, orthos, straight; Gk, onyx, claw: spaldingi— Edward
Spalding, collector and taxidermist, Queensland.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cairns district).

Notes. — Also called Spalding’s Spinetail. Inhabits the dense scrubs
of the mountain ranges, usually in small parties; it is shy and very noisy,
and is more often heard than seen. Call, a series of notes, like “Chow-
chi lla-chow-chow-chilla.” It is also said to be a wonderful mimic, capable
of imitating almost any sound. Food : insects, worms, and berries.

Nest. A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side, com-

OPEN FOREST COUNTRY

PhOtM, /'. A. (lilbcrt

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

45

posed of sticks, twigs, dead leaves, and mosses. Usually placed in a mass
of lawyer vines, in a staghorn or bird*s-nest fern growing on a tree or on
a log.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season: May to August or November.

12. Log-runner Orthonyx temmincki Ranzani — 12A. Female
temmincki — C. J. Temminck (1778-1858), Dutch ornithologist.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New
South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Spinetail and Spine-tailed Log-runner. Inhabits
the dense scrubs and brushes ; usually in pairs or family parties ; it is very
noisy, but possesses a pretty song, a series of “Quicks/* usually uttered
in an apparently excited manner. Its food consists of insects, chiefly
beetles and small land snails and slugs, collected by scratching among the
fallen leaves and other debris. It uses both legs and tail — the tail with a
“sideway” action, its spine-like tips making a perfect rake.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side, com-
posed of sticks ; lined with mosses ; built on or near the ground.

Eggs. — Two, pure white. Breeding-season: April to July.

13. Fern-wren Oreoscopus gutturalis De Vis

Or-e-o-scop'-us — Gk, oros, oreos , mountain: gut-tur-a-lis — L., gutturalis ,
throated.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland (Herberton Range to Cairns).
Notes. — Inhabits the dense scrubs of the mountain ranges; is local,
preferring damp places in the scrub, where, if one stands quiet for a
while, one is almost sure to hear its low plaintive call, or hear it scratching
among the debris and fallen leaves. Its food consists chiefly of insects, pro-
cured among ferns, lichens, and mosses, or underneath the partly stripped-
off bark of some fallen giant of the scrub.

Nest. — A large, dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side,
composed of fresh green mosses and fine black fern-stems. Built on the
ground among ferns or partly built into a hole in a bank of a gully.

Eggs. — Two, pure white. Breeding-season: extends from July to
February.

14. Rock-warbler Origma rubricata Latham

O-rig -ma — Gk, orygma , a hollow, cave: ru-bri-ca-ta — L., rubricatus , red-
dened.

Distribution. — Central eastern New South Wales (Hawkesbury sand-
stone area).

Notes. — Also called Cataract-bird, Cave-bird, Rock Robin, and Rock
Swallow. Usually in pairs, frequenting chiefly rocky ravines and gullies;
never far from water. It is an active bird, moving with rapidity wer the

46

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

surface or under rocks and fallen logs, seeking insects of all kinds. Its
clear call-notes, some of which resemble those of the White-browed Scrub-
wren, are uttered at intervals.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side hooded
over, composed of bark-fibre and grasses, coated with fine green moss and
also cobwebs and spiders’ egg-bags ; lined with fine bark-fibres and
feathers. The upper portion of the nest, where it is attached to the ceiling
of the cave, is formed almost entirely of cobwebs. Nests are built in all
manner of situations — sheds, out-houses, under culverts, in drains or
shafts, but mostly in caves.

Eggs . — Three, pure white, occasionally marked with very fine spots.
Breeding-season: July to December.

15. Pilot-bird Pycnoptilus floccosus Gould

Pyc-nop'-til-us — Gk, pycnos , thick; ptilon , feather: flocc-o-sus — L., floc-
cosus downy.

Distribution. — South-eastern New South Wales to eastern Victoria
(Dandenong Ranges).

Notes . — Also called Downy Pycnoptilus. Usually in pairs, inhabiting
heavily timbered mountain ranges and dense scrubs. It is more often heard
than seen; its beautiful notes, resembling “Guinea-a-week,” are heard
above the songs of most other birds. It is very active while seeking insect-
life among the debris and fallen leaves.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side, com-
posed of strips of bark and bark-fibre, with which are interwoven leaves,
fern rootlets, and grass ; lined with bark-fibre and feathers. Built on the
ground.

Eggs. — Two, varying from drab to smoky-brown and dusky-grey,
darker at the larger end, usually forming a zone. Breeding-season : Aug-
ust to February.

16. Ground-thrush Oreocincla lunulata Latham

Or-e-o-cinc-la — Gk, or os, oreos, mountain ; Gk, cinclos , bird : lu-nu-la-ta
— L., marked with little moons (crescents).

Distribution. — Eastern Australia (from northern Queensland to
Victoria), South Australia, Kangaroo Island, and Tasmania.

A lotos. — Also called Mountain Thrush and King Thrush. Usually in
pairs or family parties. Inhabits chiefly the floors of dense scrubs and
brushes, where large moss-covered rocks and logs abound. Its food is
procured on the ground among fallen leaves and debris, and consists of
insects of various kinds, worms, land crustaceans, and molluscs. Its notes
resemble the noise made by a ratchet-drill boring a metal plate.

Nest. — A round, open, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
bark, green mosses, or wiry rootlets. Usually placed in a fork of a low
tree,’ wedged between a thick forked trunk of a tree, or on a horizontal
moss-co\ered branch.

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

47

Eggs . — Two or three, either dull bluish-grey, buff, or pale stone-
coloured, marked all over with reddish-brown freckles and blotches.
Breeding-season: July to October.

17. Southern Scrub-robin Drymodes brunneopygia Gould

Dry-mo -des — Gk, drymodes , of the woods : bruri -ne-o-pyg -i-a — L., brun-
neus, brown ; Gk, pyge, rump, tail.

Distribution . — Interior districts of Victoria, South Australia, and
south-western and mid-western Australia.

Notes. — Inhabits low scrub-lands, chiefly mallee, mulga, “marlock,”
and pine scrubs ; usually in pairs, is friendly and answers imitations of its
call-notes, which resemble “Chip-pip-er-ee,” “Chip-pip-ee,” and “Chip-
peer-a-peet.” Food: insects of various kinds, procured on the ground
among fallen leaves and debris.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, somewhat loosely constructed, composed of strips
of bark outwardly protected by twigs; lined with grass and a few root-
lets. Built in a slight depression scraped in the ground among scrub.

Egg. — Greenish-grey, spotted and blotched with brown, often with
a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: September to November
or January.

18. Northern Scrub-robin Drymodes superciliaris Gould
su-per-cil-i-ar'-is — L., superciliaris , browed (above the eye).

Distribution. — Eastern Northern Territory and northern Queensland.
Notes. — Usually in pairs, living on the ground, where it hops about
quietly, turning over leaves and other debris in search of insect-life. Its
note is a loud shrill whistle, which it will answer if imitated. The female
alone builds the nest and incubates the eggs.

Nest. — A circular depression scratched in the ground, roughly lined
with long wiry tendrils of plants, leaves, and fine fibres. Usually placed
at the foot of a small tree.

Eggs. — Two, dull white or stone-grey, uniformly freckled and spotted
with shades of brown and underlying markings of faint bluish-grey.
Breeding-season: November to January.

19. Noisy Scrub-bird Atrichornis clamosus Gould

A-trich-orn -is — Gk, atrichos , without hair or bristles; Gk, ornis , bird:
cld-mo-sus — L., clamosus, noisy.

Distribution. — South-western Australia only, apparently extinct.
Notes. — To date only males of this species have been recorded. It
once inhabited the dense thickets and undergrowth of a limited area and
was very shy but noisy; its call was a sharp whistle repeated eight or
nine times rapidly, with crescendo, concluding with a sharp resounding
crack.

Nest. — Unknown.

Eggs . — U nkno wn .

48

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

20. Rufous Scrub-bird Atrichornis rufescens Ramsay
ru-fes-cens — L., rufescens , reddish.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New
South Wales, from the Macpherson Range to the Chichester River.

Notes . — Usually in isolated pairs, inhabiting the dense tangled under-
growth of the big scrubs and brushes. An extremely shy bird, rarely ex-
posing itself, creeping mouse-like among the debris and rotting leaves.
It is a wonderful mimic and ventriloquist, and for its size possesses the
loudest call-notes of all the birds of the scrubs. Its “Chip-chip-chip” call,
rapidly repeated with crescendo , is deafening, and is the one call in which
its ventriloquial powers are not used. Its food consists of insects of vari-
ous kinds and small land crustaceans. The female differs from the male
in not having the black feathers on the breast.

Nest. — Like a coco-nut with an entrance at the side ; instead of fibre,
the outside covering is composed of dead leaves, ferns, twigs, and broad
grass-stems ; lined with a curious material like papier mache or wood-
pulp, and perfectly smooth inside. Usually built in a clump of grass or
mass of ferns at about 6 inches from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, pinkish-white or pinkish-buff, spotted and blotched with
pinkish-red or reddish-brown and purplish-brown markings, chiefly near
the larger end. Breeding-season : October is the only month recorded.

21. White-throated Nightjar Eurostopodus mystacalis Temminck

Eu-ro -sto-pod' -us — Gk, eurostos, strong ; Gk, pous , podos, foot : mys-ta-
ca-lis — L., mystacalis , moustache.

Distribution. — Eastern and southern Australia and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Night Hawk, Moth Hawk, and Fern Owl. Usu-
ally met with singly during the day, resting on the ground ; at night num-
bers may be seen “hawking” for insects. It has an extraordinary call,
difficult to describe. Prefers open forest country, keeping to the ridges
separated by thickly timbered gullies. Its food consists of insects, prin-
cipally large moths.

Nest. — None, the single egg being deposited on the ground.

Egg . — Buff, stone, or cream-coloured, sparingly spotted and blotched
with black and underlying markings of bluish-grey. Breeding-season:
October to December or January.

22. Spotted Nightjar Eurostopodus guttatus Vigors and Horsfield
gut-ta-tus — L., guttatus , spotted.

Distribution. — Australia generally ; also occurs in the Aru Islands and
New Ireland.

Notes. — Usually singly, at rest on the ground during the day ; when
flushed, it rises and flies off to settle again on the ground. At twilight num-
bers may be seen “hawking” insects above the tree-tops or over the grass-
lands. It has a peculiar call like “Caw, caw, caw, gobble, gobble, gobble,”

GROUND-FREQUENTING BIRDS

49

the “caws” being loud and the “gobbles” gradually diminishing in volume.
Its food is similar to that of other Nightjars.

Nest. — None, the egg is deposited on the bare ground.

Egg. — Yellowish-olive, sparingly spotted and blotched with reddish-
purple or roundish lavender markings. Breeding-season : September to
December.

23. Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus macrurus Horsfield

Cap-ri-mulg -us — L., caper , goat ; L., mulgere, to suck : mac-rur-us — Gk,
macros , long; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern Queensland.

Notes. — Usually singly, at rest during the day on the ground or on a
log. Inhabits forest country near the coast, and the pockets on the moun-
tains ; it has a strange call like “Chop, chop,” resembling the cutting down
of a tree heard at a distance. Food : insects of various kinds, chiefly
moths.

Nest. — None, the eggs are deposited on the bare ground.

Eggs. — Two, pinkish-stone or a faint reddish-cream, with indistinct
spots, blotches, and clouded markings of purplish-brown and slate-grey.
Breeding-season: September to October.

50

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE VIII

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

1. Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca Latham

Gral-ll'-na — grallina, N.L., from grallae, stilts: cy-an-o-leuc-a — Gk,
cyanos, blue ; Gk, leucos, white.

Distribution. — Australia generally; accidental to Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Peewee, Mudlark, Murray Magpie, Little Mag-
pie, Peewit, and Pugwall. One of the most graceful, as well as useful, of
our birds. It is found mostly in the open, and never far from water. Its
call is responsible for its name “Peewee” which is usually uttered, accom-
panied with peculiar wing-beats, when it alights. It has an uncommon
flight, straight, with a heavy, flapping motion of the wings. Food: insect-
life procured on the ground, and pond-snails. The female has a white
forehead and throat.

Nest. — A bowl-shaped structure, composed of mud, which is rein-
forced with horse-hair, fur, grass, and feathers; lined with grass and
occasionally feathers. Generally built upon a bare horizontal limb of a
tree, preferably one growing in, or near, water. Frequently one finds the
nest of the Willie Wagtail in the same tree, usually on a lower branch.

Eggs. — Three to six, usually four, varying from pure white to pink-
ish or reddish-white, spotted and blotched with purplish-red and under-
lying markings of slate-grey, chiefly towards the larger end, often form-
ing a well-defined zone. Breeding-season : July to March.

2. Silver-backed Butcher-bird Cracticus argenteus Gould
Crac-tic'-us — Gk, crachcos, loud-voiced : ar-geri-te-us — L., argenteus,
silver.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes. — An intermediate form between the Grey and Pied Butcher-
birds. Similar in habits and song to the former.

Nest. — An open structure, composed of dead twigs and roots; lined
with dead grass or rootlets. Mostly placed in a forked branch of a tree at
about 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, pale greyish-green, with spots of burnt sienna,
chiefly at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to January.

3. Grey Butcher-bird Cracticus torquatus Latham
tor-qua-tus — L., torquatus, collared.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia (to central Queensland), southern.
Western, and central Australia, and Tasmania.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

5i

Notes. — Also called Collared Butcher-bird, Collared Crow-shrike,
Derwent Jackass, lasmanian Jackass, and Whistling Jackass. Usually in
pairs; its rich, mellow, flute-like notes are among the finest of our bird
songs. It is an early riser and one of the first birds to call. It has the
true shrike habit of making a “larder,” hanging parts of its “kill” on
thorns or in small forks of a tree, to be eaten at leisure. It is a menace
to caged birds, visiting the cages and tearing off the legs, wings, or heads
of the occupants when they fly against the wire. Food: insects of various
kinds, chiefly beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers ; also small reptiles, birds,
and field-mice.

Nest. — A shallow, cup-shaped structure, composed of twigs, rootlets,
and vine-tendrils; lined with rootlets, dead grasses, and other material.
Usually built in an upright forked branch of a tree, at heights up to 40
feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, varying in pale shades of greyish-green,
greyish-blue, olive, and light brown, spotted and blotched with dull
reddish-brown, purplish-red, or chestnut-brown, the markings being con-
fined almost entirely to the larger end, often forming a zone. Breeding-
season : August to January.

4. Black-backed Butcher-bird Cracticus mentalis Salvadori and

D’Albertis

men-ta-lis — L., mentalis , chinned.

Distribution.— Northern Queensland (Cape York district only) ; also
occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in pairs ; it is similar in habits to the Grey Butcher-
bird ; its notes are also similar, but are very much weaker, and can only
be heard a short distance away. Food : insects, chiefly beetles.

Nest. — A shallow, cup-shaped structure, composed of sticks; lined
with strong grass-roots. Placed in the forked branches of a tree in forest
country, at heights up to 35 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs— Usually three, pale greenish-grey or pale brown, spotted and
blotched with reddish-brown, purplish-brown, and dull slate markings,
chiefly at the larger end. Breeding-season: October to December.

5, Pied Butcher-bird Cracticus nigrogularis Gould
ni-gro-gu-la-ris — L., niger, black; L., gularis, throated.

Distribution. — Australia (except southern Victoria and south-western
Australia).

Notes. — Also called Black-throated Butcher-bird, Black-throated
Crow-shrike, and Organ-bird. Usually in isolated pairs. It possesses the
most musical flute-like notes of any of our birds, heard at their best at
break of day. An attractive bird in addition to its song, and somewhat
retiring in its habits. It will defend its nest vigorously, a habit of all
Butcher-birds. Food: insects, principally beetles and crickets; also mice,
reptiles, and small birds.

52

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest . — An open and fairly deep structure, composed of sticks and
twigs; lined with dried grasses and rootlets. Usually built in the. upright
forked branch of a tree up to 40 feet from the ground. Favourite nest-
ing trees are gums and oaks.

Eggs . — Three to five, usually four, greyish-green, pale olive, or pale
brown, spotted and blotched or thinly freckled with darker shades of the
ground colour, or with shades of brown and some black spots, often with
well-defined caps at the larger end. Breeding-season : August to Decem-
ber or January.

6. Western Magpie Gymnorhina dorsalis Campbell
Gym-no-rhxn-a — Gk, gymnos , bare; Gk, this (rhinos), nose: dors-a-lis —
L., dorsalis , backed.

Distribution. — South-western Australia.

Notes. — Similar in habits to the Black-backed Magpie.

Nest . — A large, bowl-shaped structure, composed of sticks and twigs;
lined with bark, grass, wool, hair, or fur. Usually placed at heights up
to 40 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Three to five, four being the usual clutch. A typical clutch
is pale bluish-white, almost obliterated with smudges and blotches of um-
ber, brownish-red, and pale purplish-slate. Breeding-season : July to

February.

7. White-backed Magpie Gymnorhina hypoleuca Gould
hy-po-leuc-a — Gk, hypo , under ; Gk, leucos, white.

Distribution. — Southern Australia (except south-western portion),
central Australia, and Tasmania; introduced into New Zealand.

Notes . — Similar in habits to the Black-backed Magpie.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Black-backed Magpie.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the Black-backed Magpie.

8. Black-backed Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen Latham

ti-bi-cen — L., tibicen, a flute-player.

Distribution. — Australia (except southern Victoria and south-west-
ern Australia) ; introduced into New Zealand.

Notes —Also called Piping Crow-shrike, Varied Crow-shrike, Organ-
bird, Flute-bird, and Singing White Crow. Few birds are better known
than the Magpies, either in a wild state or in captivity. The Black-backed
Magpie like other Magpies, shows a preference for open forest country,
partly cleared lands, and cultivation paddocks. It is very useful in destroy-
ing all manner of insect pests. Its song is a delightful carol of melodious
flute-like notes heard at its best in the early morning; this is one of the
outstanding bird songsters of the world. . It will protect its home vigor-
ously, inflicting severe punishment on an intruder.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

S3

Nest. — A deep, bowl-shaped structure, composed of sticks and twigs;
neatly lined with fibrous roots, coarse grasses, bark-fibre, cow-hair, wool, or
other soft material. Usually built in an upright forked branch of a tall
tree, at heights up to 60 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Three to five, usually four; the ground colour varies from
greenish-blue to dull bluish-white, or from reddish-grey to dull brown,
almost obscured with streaks, scratches, and smears of reddish or chest-
nut-brown, and underlying markings of darker shades of the ground
colour. Breeding-season: July to February.

9. White-winged Chough Corcorax melanorhamphus Vieillot
Cor'-cor-ax — Gk, corax, crow, raven: mel-an-o-rham'-phus — Gk. melas
( melanos ), black; Gk, rhamphos, bill.

Distribution . — Southern Queensland, New South Wales. Victoria,
and South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Jackdaw, Black Magpie, Black Jay, Apostle-bird,
and Mutton-bird. Usually in small flocks; it spends most of its time on
the ground, and when disturbed, rises with harsh grating cries of alarm.
Hops about in the trees from limb to limb, spreading and elevating its tail
in a peculiar manner. The call-note is a low mournful whistle. Food:
chiefly insects and their larvae ; occasionally soft cultivated fruits.

Nest. — A large, bowl-shaped structure, composed of mud reinforced
with grass; lined with fur, dried grasses, strips of bark-fibre, or wool.
Usually built on a horizontal branch of a tree, at various heights from
the ground. Generally three or more birds help in the construction of
the nest, while two females may lay in the same nest.

Eggs. — Five to seven, sometimes nine, pale creamy-white, spotted
and blotched with olive-brown, blackish-brown, and slate-grey markings.
Breeding-season: August to December.

10. Black-winged Currawong (Bell-magpie) Strepera melanoptera

Gould

Strep'-er-a — L., strepere , to make a noise: mel'-an-op’-tera — Gk, melas
{melanos), black; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — North-western Victoria (Mallee), South Australia,
and Kangaroo Island.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs ; frequents timbered country in the
breeding-season, and in the autumn and winter months more open areas.
Call-note, a loud ringing whistle, usually uttered while on the wing. Food:
chiefly insects; it is also destructive in orchards.

Nest . — A large, open structure, composed of sticks; lined with bark
and grasses. Usually built in perpendicular forks near the extremity of a
branch — a very difficult nest to get at.

Eggs. — Two or three, varying from a pale buffy-white to rich vinous-
brown, freckled, streaked, and blotched with shades of brown; some have
the markings uniform, in others they predominate at the larger end, often
forming a cap. Breeding-season : September and October.

54

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

11. Black Currawong Strep era fuliginosa Gould
fu-li -gin-o -sa — L., fuliginosus, sooty.

Distribution . — Tasmania and King Island (Bass Strait).

Notes. — Also called Sooty Crow-shrike, Black Magpie, and Black Jay.
Usually in flocks; it is bold and inquisitive and incessantly noisy. It is
considered a pest, doing considerable damage in gardens and orchards;
it also eats chickens and ducklings.

Nest. — A large, open structure, composed of sticks; lined with root-
lets and grass. Usually built in an upright forked branch of a tall tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, purplish-buff, spotted and blotched with dull
purplish-brown and reddish-brown shades, closer together at the larger
end. Breeding-season : September to December.

12. Clinking Currawong Strepera arguta Gould
ar-gu-ta — L., argutus, clear-voiced.

Distribution. — Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Hill Crow-shrike, Mountain Magpie, and Black
Jay. Usually in small parties during the breeding-season; congregates in
large flocks in autumn and winter. Frequents the hilly country chiefly,
and is the largest of the group; it derives its name from its call, a loud
ringing series of notes ‘‘Clink, clink,” or “Kling-klang.” Food: insects
chiefly, and native fruits and berries.

Nest . — A round, deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of sticks; lined
with fibrous roots and other fine materials. Generally placed on a horizon-
tal branch of a tree at various heights from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, varying from dull vinous-white to vinous-grey,
streaked, spotted, or irregularly blotched with pale brown, and other
underlying markings of bluish-grey. Breeding-season : August to

December.

13. Grey Currawong Strepera versicolor Latham
ver'-si-col-or — L., versicolor, different coloured.

Distribution. — Eastern and southern Australia.

Notes— Also called Grey Crow-shrike, Grey Magpie, Rain-bird, and
Squeaker. In the breeding-season it is met with in small flocks, but con-
gregates in large flocks during autumn and winter. In habits it is similar
to the other Currawongs. Food : insects, chiefly procured on the ground ;
also native fruits and berries.

Nest. — Similar in structure and size to those of the other Curra-
wongs.

Eggs. Two or three, varying from pale buff and chocolate-brown

to rich vinous-brown and vinous-grey, with freckles, streaks, and small
blotches of darker shades of the ground colour. Breeding-season : Sep-

tember to December.

Plate VIII

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

55

14, Pied Currawong Strepera graculina Shaw
grac-u-li -na — L., graculinus, like a graculus, jackdaw.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia and Lord Howe Island.

Notes. — Also called Pied Crow-shrike, Black Magpie, and Mutton-
bird. Congregates in flocks, small or large, according to the seasons of
the year. Frequents all classes of country, its movements being influenced
by the food-supply available ; derives its name from its call, “Curra-wong
— curra-wong — curra-wack.” It is one of our worst bird pests ; apart
from the damage it does in orchards and in spreading the prickly pear,
it destroys countless numbers of useful species of birds, eating both
their eggs and young.

Nest. — A large, open, roughly formed structure, composed of twigs
and sticks ; lined with rootlets, bark-fibre, and other fine materials. Usu-
ally built in an upright or leaning forked branch of a tall tree, generally
in inaccessible positions.

Eggs. — Two to four, usually three, varying from pale brown to pale
vinous-brown, faintly freckled, blotched, or streaked with darker shades
of the ground colour. Breeding-season: September to January.

15, Brown Currawong Strepera intermedia Sharpe
in-ter-med’ -i-a — L., intermedins , intermediate.

Distribution. — South Australia (Port Lincoln).

Notes. — This is an intermediate form between the Black-winged
Currawong and the Grey Currawong, with habits similar to both species.

Nest . — Similar to those of the above two species.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the above two species.

16, Raven Corvus coronoides Vigors and Horsfield

Cor-vus — L., corvus, crow: cor-on-oid f -es — Gk, corone, raven; -oides,
from Gk, eidos , form = like.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia to as far north as Rockhampton,
southern Australia to Perth, and Tasmania.

Notes. — In the breeding-season it is usually in pairs, but in the autumn
and winter it is gregarious. Prefers open country where it spends most
of the day, returning to the timbered areas at dusk. It is a particularly
wary bird and difficult to approach. It is exceedingly destructive during
the lambing-season, picking out the eyes of lambs. The call-note, usually
uttered when in flight, is a loud and deep “Gwar-gwar-gwar-r,” varied
with a shrill “Korr-korr.” This species is omnivorous, but prefers the
flesh of animals; it also destroys large numbers of insects.

Nest. — A large, open, rather deep structure, composed of sticks and
twigs ; lined with strips of bark, grasses, hair, and wool. Usually placed
in the forked branches of a tall tree.

Eggs. — Four to six, pale green or bluish white, freckled, spotted,
and blotched with blackish-brown and light umber, the markings being
larger and more plentiful at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to
December.

56

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

17. Little Crow Corvus bennetti North

bennetti — Kenric H. Bennett, ornithologist and collector, Riverina, New
South Wales.

Distribution . — Northern and central Australia and the interior gener-
ally.

Notes . — Also called Small-billed Crow. Usually in pairs or small
parties ; it is not destructive, feeding chiefly on insects and small reptiles,
to which are added seeds and berries. The call-note is “Car,” repeated
six or eight times.

Nest . — Similar to that of the Raven, but usually placed in a scrub
tree away from the creek timber.

Eggs . — Four or five to six or seven, pale greenish-grey, speckled and
uniformly spotted all over with blackish-brown and olive-brown markings.
Breeding-season: August to November.

18. Crow Corvus cecilce Mathews

ceciloe — from the name of a relative of Gregory M. Mathews.

Distribution . — Tropical northern Australia, Dirk Hartog Island, cen-
tral Australia, South Australia, Queensland, and north-eastern New South
Wales.

Notes . — Also called Hazel-eyed Crow. In the breeding-season it is
met with in isolated pairs, but congregates in flocks during autumn and
winter. Frequents alike mountain ranges and belts of timber bordering
inland rivers and creeks. Food: carrion, insects, young birds, and eggs;
also cultivated fruits of all kinds. Useful in keeping down the blow-fly
pest. It is often mistaken for the Raven and blamed for killing lambs.
Crows are distinguished from the Raven in having the bases of the feathers
on the upper-parts white and dusky-grey, those of the Raven being black.
Nest . — Similar in construction and situation to that of the Raven.
Eggs . — Four to five, sometimes six; a typical clutch is pale greenish-
grey, speckled, spotted, and blotched with blackish-brown and olive-brown
markings. Breeding-season: August to January.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

57

PLATE IX

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

1. Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novce-hollandice Gmelin
Cor-a-ct-na — Gk, coracinos, raven-like: nova-hollandice — of New Holland.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; accidental to New
Zealand; also occurs in the Celebes, Timor, Molucca Islands, and New
Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Blue Jay, Summer-bird, Blue Pigeon, Lapwing,
Cherry-hawk, Leatherhead, and Jay. Usually in pairs or small flocks,
inhabiting open forest-lands chiefly. It is partly nomadic, being observed
less in the winter than in the summer. Its flight is undulating and power-
ful; it is seldom seen upon the ground. The call is a strange rattle of
flute-like notes often uttered while in flight. Food : large insects and their
larvae, procured among the leaves of the trees ; also berries.

Nest. — A small, nearly flat structure, composed of fine twigs, grass,
bark-fibre, plant-stems or leaves, and fibrous rootlets, bound together
with cobwebs. Some nests are decorated on the outside with small pieces
of bark. Usually built in the angle of a forked horizontal branch of a tree.

Eggs. — Usually three, olive-green to pale olive-brown, spotted, chiefly
on the larger end, with different shades of umber and chestnut-brown, and
underlying spots of dull grey. Breeding-season: August to January (New
South Wales) ; February, March, and July (Queensland).

2. White-breasted Cuckoo-shrike Coracina hypoleuca Gould
hy-po-leuc -a — Gk, hypo , under; Gk, leucos, white.

Distribution. — Northern tropical Australia; also occurs in the Aru
Islands, New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting open forest
country. It is very similar in habits and economy to the Black-faced
Cuckoo-shrike.

Nest. — A small, nearly flat structure, composed of grass and fine
twigs, bound together with cobwebs. Usually built in the angle of a forked
horizontal branch of a tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, bluish-green, blotched with different shades of
brown, and underlying markings of purplish-grey. Breeding-season:
October to January.

58

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

3. Little Cuckoo-shrike Coracina robusta Latham — 3A. Immature.
ro-bus-ta — L., robustus, strong.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and
South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Varied Graucalus and Lesser Blue Jay. Usually
in pairs, frequenting the tall trees of the open forests. It appears to be
nomadic in habits. Its call, “Kiseek, kiseek,” cannot possibly be mistaken
for that of any other species. Food: insects and their larvae, procured
among the branches or on the wing.

Nest. — A small, nearly flat structure, composed of grass, twigs, and
other materials, bound together with cobwebs. Usually built in the angle
of a forked horizontal branch of a tree, at a considerable height from the
ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, various shades of green, blotched with different
shades of brown, with underlying markings of purplish-grey. Breeding-
season: August to December.

4. Papuan Cuckoo-shrike Coracina papuensis Gmelin
papuensis — of Papua or New Guinea.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, also occurs in the Molucca
Islands, Papuan Islands, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting the open forest country and
mangroves. Resembles the other Cuckoo-shrikes in habits and economy.

Nest. — Resembles that of the White-breasted Cuckoo-shrike.

Eggs. — Resemble those of the White-breasted Cuckoo-shrike.

5. Gascoyne Cuckoo-shrike Coracina gascoynensis Ashby
gascoynensis — Gascoyne River, Western Australia.

Distribution — Gascoyne River (mid-western Australia).

Notes. — Resembles the Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike in habits, frequent-
ing similar classes of country.

Nest. — Not recorded.

Eggs. — Not recorded.

6. Barred Cuckoo-shrike Coracina lineata Swainson
tln-e-a-ta — L., lineatus, lined.

Distribution. — Eastern Queensland and New South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Swainson’s Cuckoo-shrike. Usually in pairs,
frequenting open forest and scrub-lands. It appears to be nomadic in
northern New South Wales, where it is most common in September or
October, but is rarely seen during the autumn or winter months. It is
often observed with other species feeding upon different kinds of wild
figs, other native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — A shallow, open structure, composed of fine twigs and rootlets,

Plate IX

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

N.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

59

bound together with cobwebs. Built in the horizontal fork of a tree up to
40 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, white, spotted (more so at the larger end where
a zone is formed) with various shades of brown and purplish-grey.
Breeding-season: October to January.

7. Ground Cuckoo-shrike Pteropodocys maxima Ruppell

Pter-o-pod-o-cys — Gk, pteron, wing; Gk, podocys, swift-footed: max ' -
im-a — L., maximns, greatest.

Distribution . — Australia (except the north-western area).

Notes . — Usually in pairs or small parties, chiefly frequenting the
sparsely timbered areas of the inland districts. It spends a good deal
of its time on the ground over which it moves rapidly; when flushed, its
flight is undulating. Generally when disturbed it flies to the nearest
timber; as a rule it is shy and cautious. It has a peculiar, plaintive,
rippling call-note, usually uttered while on the wing, also another note
which is a prolonged, harsh cry. Food : insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A saucer-shaped structure, composed of grass, plant-stems,
rootlets, or wool, bound together with cobwebs; lined with fine grass.
Usually placed in a horizontal forked branch of a tree, at heights up to
70 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, dull asparagus-green, more or less obscured
by numerous indistinct fleecy markings of olive-brown. Breeding-season:
August to December.

8. Blue-winged Kookaburra Dacelo leachi Vigors and Horsfield

— 8 A. Female

Da-ce r 4o — anagram of alcedo, L., alcedo , inis, kingfisher : leachi — Dr W.
E. Leach (1790-1836), Keeper of Zoology, British Museum.

Distribution. — North-western and mid-western Australia, Northern
Territory, and Queensland; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes . — Also called Leach’s Kingfisher, Blue-rumped Kingfisher,
Howling Jackass, and Queensland Kookaburra. Usually in pairs, inhabit-
ing open forest country. It is similar in habits and economy to the
Laughing Kookaburra.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Three or four, pure white. Breeding-season: September to
November.

9. Laughing Kookaburra Dacelo gigas Boddaert
gl'-gas— Gk, gigas , giant.

Distribution . — Eastern and southern Australia; introduced to Western
Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Brown Kingfisher. Great Kingfisher, Giant King-
fisher, Laughing Jackass, Bushman’s Clock, and Settler’s Clock. Usually

6o

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

in pairs or small parties, chiefly frequenting open forest-lands. Its extra-
ordinary laughing notes are a constant delight to all bird lovers, and are
heard at their best in the early morn or just after sunset. It is not
uncommon in parks and gardens. Food : small reptiles, insects and
their larvae, and crabs. It also robs the nests of other birds of their
young, and occasionally preys on chickens.

Nest. In a hollow limb, in a hole in a tree, or in a termites* nest
in a tree.

E-99 s ' — Two to four, pure white. Breeding-season: September to
December or January.

10. Apostle-bird Struthidea cinerea Gould

S truth-id’ -e -a — Gk, strouthos, bird; Gk, eidos, form: cin-er -e-a — L.,
cinereus, ashen.

Distribution . — Northern Territory and the interior of Queensland,
New South Wales, and Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Grey Jumper and Twelve Apostles. Usually in
small flocks, comprised of twelve or more birds, chiefly frequenting the
open forest-lands. It is generally observed feeding on the ground over
which it hops in a rather quaint manner. When disturbed, it flies to the
lower branches of a nearby tree, ascending from branch to branch by a
series of leaps, uttering harsh, grating cries the while. It often establishes
itself near homesteads, and soon becomes fearless. Food: insects and
seeds.

Nest . — A basin-shaped structure, composed of mud, bound together
and reinforced with grass; usually lined with very fine grass. Generally
placed on a horizontal limb of a tree at heights up to 40 feet or more
from the ground. This species is a communal nest-builder.

Eggs. — Five to eight, pale bluish-white, sparingly marked with brush-
like streaks of blackish-brown and dull purplish-grey, the markings usually
being thicker about the larger end. Breeding-season : August to December.

11. Channel-billed Cuckoo Scythrops novce-hollandice Latham
Scy-throps — Gk scythros, sullen (faced) : novce-hollandice — of New
Holland.

Distribution. — Australia (except the south-western and mid- western
areas) ; accidental to Tasmania; also occurs in the Celebes, Flores, Molucca,
and Aru Islands, and in New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Fig-hawk, Hornbill, Toucan, Giant Cuckoo,
Storm Cuckoo, Flood-bird, and Rain-bird. Observed singly, in pairs, or
in small flocks, frequenting alike open forest and scrub-lands. It is a
migrant, usually arriving in south-eastern Australia during September or
October, departing again in March. Its loud, awesome, screaming call,
difficult to describe, is uttered both in flight or when perched. Food:
insects, native fruits, and berries.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

61

Parasitic — recorded foster-parents number five species, chiefly
Currawongs and Crows.

Egg . — Dull white to pale yellowish-brown, spotted and blotched, par-
ticularly at the larger end, with brown and lavender. Breeding-season:
October to December or January (south-eastern Australia).

12. Stone-curlew Burhinus magnirostris Latham

Bu-rliiri-us — Gk, bu (bon), big; Gk, rhynchos (rhugchos) , beak: mag-ni -
ros-tris — L., magnus, great; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — Australia generally, accidental to Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Stone-plover, Curlew, Thick-knee, Scrub Curlew,
and Willaroo. Usually in pairs, frequenting open forest country, and
plains intersected with belts of timber. Generally it is shy and cautious,
and when disturbed, flies off as an intruder approaches. Occasionally it
will remain quite stationary, either in an upright position, or else crouched
near the ground, relying on its protective coloration to help it escape being
detected. Its familiar call, “Ker-loo” or “Koo-loo,” is weird and melan-
choly, and is mostly uttered after nightfall, when the bird is dancing,
especially on moonlight nights. Food : insects and their larvae.

Nest. — None, the eggs being deposited in a slight depression in the
grass or on the bare ground.

Eggs . — Usually two, varying greatly in the ground-colour; typical
eggs are light yellowish-stone or yellowish-grey, more or less obscured
with spots and blotches of light brown, dull umber, and some underlying
markings of inky-grey. Breeding-season: August to January.

62

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE X

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

(Some Permanent Residents)

1. Robust Whistler Pachycephala robusta Masters — 1A. Female
Pacti-y-ccph-al-a — Gk, pachys, thick ; Gk, cep hale, head : rd-bus-ta — L.,
robustus , strong.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia, from Parry Harbour
(north-western Australia) to Cape York (northern Queensland).

Notes. — Also known as the Big-billed Whistler and Big-billed Thick-
head. It is found chiefly in the coastal districts and on all the islands
along the coast on which there is any scrub. Its call-notes are similar
to those of the other Yellow-breasted Whistlers. Food: insects.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, composed of rootlets held together with cobwebs ;
lined with fine rootlets. Usually built in an upright fork of a tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, stone or buff-coloured, spotted with dark brown
or umber, with a well-defined zone at the larger end. Breeding-season:
November and December.

2. Black-tailed Whistler Pachycephala melanura Gould — 2 A. Female
mel'-an-ur-a — Gk, melas (melanos) , black; ura (owra), tail.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, from Point Cloates to Derby.

Notes. — Mostly found in coastal forests and mangrove swamps.
This species is placed here for comparison with the Robust Whistler, with
which it has long been confused. It is very inquisitive, searching for
insects in debris left by the tides. Call-note similar to, but less powerful
than that of the Robust Whistler.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, composed of coarse rootlets; lined with finer
rootlets, and lightly covered outside with cobwebs. Usually built in an
upright fork of a mangrove tree.

Eggs. Two, whitish, spotted with chestnut and underlying spots of

lavender, with a heavy zone of reddish-brown at the larger end. Breeding-
season : December (to March?).

3. Hooded Robin Melanodryas cucullata Latham — 3A. Female
Mel'-an-o-dry'-as — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, dryas , a dryad:
cu-cul-la-ta — L., cucullatus, hooded.

Distribution. — Australia generally (except northern Queensland).

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST (SOME permanent RESIDENTS)

\

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

63

Notes. Also called Black-and-white Robin, Black Robin, and Pied
Robin. Usually in pairs ; the conspicuous plumage of the male attracts
attention ; it is unobtrusive in habits, with a feeble call-note. Food : insects,
mostly procured on the ground.

Nest.— Cup-shaped, composed of fine rootlets, bark, and grass, bound
together with cobwebs ; lined with very fine rootlets ; occasionally decorated
with strips of bark. Usually built in an upright fork of a tree up to 12 feet
from the ground.

. Two or three, pale olive to apple-green, more or less clouded

with rich brown, particularly at the larger end. Breeding-season: August
to December.

4. Southern Yellow Robin Eopsaltria australis Shaw

E-op-sal -tri-a — Gk, eos, dawn; Gk, psaltria, harper (“Dawn-singer”) :
australis — L., australis , southern (Australian).

Distribution. — Eastern and south-eastern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-breasted Shrike-robin, Yellow Bob, Bark
Robin, and Yellow-hammer. A friendly bird and easily tamed; one of
the earliest birds to awaken and one of the last to go to roost. It has a
habit of perching sideways on a tree-trunk. Call-note, a pleasing continu-
ous piping, heard at its best at dawn and dusk. Food : insects and their
larvae.

Cup-shaped, composed of grass-stems and rootlets joined with
cobwebs ; lined with finer rootlets; beautifully decorated on the outside
with strips of bark and pieces of lichen. Often built in an upright or
horizontal fork, and sometimes on a horizontal branch of a low tree
frequently within hands' reach from the ground.

Eggs.— Two or three, pale apple-green to greenish-blue, spotted and
blotched with reddish or chestnut-brown and paler markings. Some eggs
are evenly marked, others have a well-defined zone or cap at the larger end
Breeding-season : July to January.

5. Little Yellow Robin Eopsaltria kempi Mathews

kempi Robin Kemp, British collector, who has done field-work in Aus-
tralia.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Claudie
River.

N otes. — Has the habits of a Flycatcher, making short flights from
branch to branch and occasionally into the air to capture insects, uttering
the while a continuous subdued piping call, resembling “Zzt, zzt, zzt.”

Nest . — Not described.

Eggs. — Not described.

6. Western Yellow Robin Eopsaltria griseogularis Gould
gris -e-o-gu-la -ris — L., griseus, grey; L., gularis, throated.

Distribution. — South-western and South Australia, from the Wongan
Hills to Eyre's Peninsula.

64

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also known as the Grey-breasted Robin and Grey-breasted
Shrike-robin. It is similar in habits to the Southern Yellow Robin.

Nest, — Similar to that of the Southern Yellow Robin.

Eggs. — Two or three, varying from dull apple-green to pale yellowish-
green, spotted or blotched with shades of chestnut, red, or brown; some
have a well-defined zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to
October.

7- Jacky Winter (Brown Flycatcher) Micrceca fascinans Latham
Micr-cec' -a — Gk, micros , small ; oikos, house : fas'-ci-nans — L., fascinans,
fascinating.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Peter-Peter, Post-boy, Post-sitter, White-tail,
Stump-bird, and Spinks. A general favourite, friendly and confiding; it
frequents gardens, orchards, and parks. It has a sweet and melodious
song, and in addition utters a call resembling “Pretty, pretty, pretty ; peter,
peter, peter,” or “You did, you did, you did.” Ever on the move, with
its tail swaying from side to side. Food : insects of various kinds, captured
on the wing or on the ground.

Nest. — A small, saucer-shaped structure about 2^ inches wide by i
inch deep, composed of fine grass mixed with horse-hair, pieces of bark,
and lichen. Generally built into the angle of a forked horizontal dead
branch of a tree up to 70 feet from the ground, and fastened with cob-
webs.

Eggs. — Usually two, greenish-blue, spotted and blotched with pur-
plish-brown and underlying markings of greyish-lilac; some have well-
defined zones at the larger end. Breeding-season : August to December.

8. Lemon-breasted Flycatcher Micrceca flavigaster Gould
jlav-i-gas-ter — L., — flavus , yellow ; Gk, gaster, belly.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern and north-eastern
Queensland ; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Similar in habits to the Jacky Winter, but soars in circles
like a singing Skylark.

Nest. — A very small, saucer-shaped structure about 1 % inches across
by i inch deep, composed of fibrous bark and grass, bound together with
cobwebs. Usually built into the fork of a dead horizontal limb.

Egg. — Faint blue, finely dotted all over with pale purplish-red. Breed-
ing-season: October to January.

9. Brown-tailed Flycatcher Micrcea brunneicauda Campbell
brun-ne-i-caiid'-a — L., brunneus, brown ; L., cauda , tail.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes. — This species is uncommon; it frequents open forests and also
mangroves, where it conceals itself in the thickest growths, living on
insects, small crabs, and other forms of marine-life. The call-notes are
loud and closely resemble those of the Yellow-faced Honey-eater.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

65

Nest. — A small, open structure, composed of bark and pieces of
leaves bound together with cobwebs ; generally placed on a branch of a
mangrove tree.

Egg . — Pale bluish-grey, spotted all over with chestnut and underlying
markings of purple, particularly at the larger end, where an irregular zone
is formed. Breeding-season : October.

10. Northern Shrike-tit Falcunculus whitei Campbell

Fal-cmi-cu-lus — L., falcunculus , little falcon : whitei — H. L. White, Bell-
trees, Scone, New South Wales.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes. — Similar in habits to the Eastern Shrike-tit, but difficult to
locate because of its subdued notes.

Nest. — A compact, deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
stringy-bark, matted together with cobwebs; lined with grass and thin
strands of fine bark. Usually built near the top of the tallest upright
branches of a gum sapling up to 50 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, white, finely marked with spots of dark olive, with
underlying markings of pale grey. Breeding-season: August to January
or February.

11. Eastern Shrike-tit Falcunculus frontatus Latham
front-a-tus — L., frontatus ( frons), with conspicuous forehead.

Distribution. — Eastern and south-eastern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Bark-tit, Yellow-hammer, Frontal Shrike-tit, and
Falcon-shrike. Plentiful in tall timber and saplings. Usually in pairs or
small parties ; by no means shy, as it fearlessly searches for food. Does
great service in orchards, eating codlin moths, cockchafer beetles, and
other pests. The “Knock-at-the-door, knock-at-the-door” call is frequently
uttered; in addition it has a succession of sweet and high-pitched call-
notes.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Northern Shrike-tit. Before building,
these birds break the green bark with their strong bills ; the sun then causes
the broken bark to curl back, thus forming hooks which help to hold the
nest in position.

Eggs. — Two to three, white, marked with minute spots of dark olive
and pale grey. Breeding-season: August to January.

12. Western Shrike-tit Falcunculus leucogasler Gould
leuc-o-gas -ter — Gk, leucos, white ; Gk, gaster, belly.

Distribution. — South-western Australia only.

Notes. — Similar in habits to the Eastern Shrike-tit. Hangs from
slender twigs like a Honey-eater in search of insects, and tears off loose
strips of bark under which spiders spin their cocoons. Call-note, a single
“Ko” or “Koo,” very softly uttered. Another description is a plaintive
whistling note like a faint “Poo-oo-pec-e.”

66

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest . — Similar to that of the Northern Shrike-tit.

Eggs. — Two or three, white, marked with dark olive and grey mark-
ings, which form a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season : August to
January.

13. Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica Latham

C oll-u-ri-cinc -la — Gk, collurion, shrike; Gk, cinclos ( kigklos ), bird
(thrush) : har-mori-i-ca — L., harmonious , harmonious.

Distribution. — Eastern and south-eastern Australia (from Cape York
to South Australia), Kangaroo Island, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Harmonious Thrush, Native Thrush, Pluff,
Mourner, and Whistling Dick. A friendly and useful bird, easily tamed.
Well named Harmonica, being a charming whistler with a fine repertoire
of liquid notes. Fcfod : chiefly insects.

Nest. — A large, cup-shaped structure, composed of long strips of
bark, wiry roots, and grass ; neatly lined with fine rootlets and grass. Built
in a variety of situations such as hollows in tops of stumps and broken-off
branches, in burnt-out hollows in trees, and in upright forks.

Eggs. — Three or four, pearly-white or creamy-white, spotted and
blotched with dark olive, olive-brown, and pale grey markings. Breeding-
season : August to December.

14. Brown Shrike-thrush Colluricincla brunnea Gould
brun-ne-a — L., brunneus , brown.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, from Roebuck Bay through
the Northern Teritory to Leichhardt River (north-western Queensland).
Notes. — Similar in habits to the Grey Shrike-thrush.

Nest . — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark
and leaves ; lined with leaves. Usually placed in an old stump, or in a
cleft in a wall of sandstone.

Eggs. — Three or four, varying in shape and size, white, spotted and
blotched with light olive-brown and pale slate markings, chiefly at the
larger end. Breeding-season : September to November or December.

15. Little Shrike-thrush Colluricincla parvula Gould
par-vu-la — L., parvulus , very small.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, from Arnhem Land to Ad-
miralty Gulf (Northern Territory).

Notes. — Inhabits the thickets, also mangroves. It is extremely shy,
and is generally seen on or near the ground. Food: insects of various

kinds. 4

Nest . — Cup-shaped, composed of strips of bark, and placed in the

hollow of a tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, dull white, finely marked all over with spots
and specks of pale to dark olive-brown and dull purplish-grey, heavier at
the larger end. Breeding-season : December and January.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

&7

16. Western Shrike-thrush Colluricincla rnfiventris Gould
rii-fi-ven'-tris — L., rufus, red ; L., venter , belly.

Distribution . — Mid-western and South Australia, from North-west
Cape to Eyre’s Peninsula.

Notes. — Also known as the Buff-bellied Shrike-thrush. Some birds
are very shy, others are fearless. It has several distinct songs, one of
which is loud and musical though not so melodious as that of the Grey
Shrike-thrush. Food : insects.

Nest . — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of strips of
bark, and generally placed in the hollow of a dead stump or fork of a tree.

Eggs. — Two or three ; very similar to those of the Grey Shrike-
thrush. Breeding-season: September to November; also breeds in March
and April.

17. Brown-breasted Shrike-thrush Colluricincla woodzvardi Hartert

woodwardi — B. H. Woodward, a former director of Perth Museum,
Western Australia.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.
Notes. — Keeps to the rocky open forest country; it is extremely shy
as it flies or hops from rock to rock. Call-notes, loud and clear. Food :
insects, mostly secured on the ground.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed entirely of the reddish-
brown roots of spinifex ( Triodia ), and usually placed in cracks or holes
in sandstone cliffs.

Eggs. — Two or three, pearly- white or creamy- white, sootted and
blotched with brownish-black, brown, and slate-grey markings, principally
at the larger end. Breeding-season : December.

18. Northern Fantail Rhipidura setosa Quoy and Gaimard

Rhip-id-ur-a — lit., fantail, Gk, rhipis, rhipidos, fan; Gk, ura ( oura) f tail :
se-td-sa — L., setosus, bristly.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia; also occurs in New
Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago.

Notes . — Similar in habits to the Grey Fantail.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, with a stem or tail-piece, composed of strips of
tea-tree bark, the outside being entirely covered with cobwebs. The tail
extends about 2 inches below the bottom of the nest. Built at various
heights up to 75 feet.

Eggs. — Two, creamy-white, with a darker shade forming a zone at
the larger end. Breeding-season: October to January.

19. Grey Fantail Rhipidura flabellifera Gmelin
fla-bell-if-er-a — L., flabellum, fan; L., fero , I bear.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania ; also occurs in
New Caledonia, New Hebrides, and New Zealand.

68

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes . — Also called White-shafted Fantail, White-shafted Flycatcher,
Snapper, Mad Fan, Cranky Fan, Devil-bird, and Land Wagtail. Usually
found in pairs. An extremely tame and very restless species, performing
all manner of aerial evolutions while seeking its food — chiefly flies. Hence
the name “Cranky Fan.” It has a sweet twittering song.

Nest . — Shaped like a wineglass without the base. Composed of dried
grasses and shreds of bark bound together with cobwebs; lined with finer
materials. The tail-piece varies in length. The nest is usually built on a
horizontal limb at various heights from the ground.

Eggs , — Two to four, buff-coloured (some have a zone at the larger
end), spotted with rufous and lavender markings. Breeding-season:
September to January.

20. Restless Flycatcher Seisura inquieta Latham

Seis-iir-a — Gk, seiein, to shake; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail: in-qui-e-ta — L.,
inquictus, restless.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes . — Also called Scissors Grinder, Grinder, Dishwasher, Crested
Wagtail, and often, in error, Willie Wagtail. Usually seen in pairs. It is
very confiding and will visit houses, seeking spiders in window frames.
Has a loud, harsh call-note which is repeated several times. The peculiar
“grinding” notes are mostly uttered while hovering, but sometimes when
perched. Very aggressive when its nest is approached. Food : insects of
various kinds.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, composed of grasses or fine bark bound together
with cobwebs, often decorated with lichen ; lined with soft materials. Usu-
ally built on the top of a forked horizontal limb up to 60 feet from the
ground.

Eggs . — Three or four, white or buff, spotted with umber and lavender
markings forming a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season : August to
January.

21. Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys Latham
leuc'-o-phrys — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, phrys ( phrus ), brow.

Distribution . — Australia generally, accidental to Tasmania; also
occurs in the Molucca Islands and New Guinea.

Notes . — Also called Black-and-white Fantail, Shepherd’s Companion,
Wagtail. Frog-bird, and Morning-bird. In pairs, frequenting open forest,
being more numerous in the vicinity of water. It is exceptionally tame,
and is a familiar bird in gardens. It has a pleasant call resembling “Sweet
pretty little creature,” frequently uttered during the day or night, especi-
ally on moonlight nights. Food : insects, chiefly flies, procured on the
ground and in the air.

Nest . — A neat, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark
bound together with spiders’ webs, and held in place on the branch by the
same material. Nests are usually built on a horizontal limb of a tree grow-

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

69

ing near water, and often in the same tree in which the nest of the
Magpie-lark is built; but sometimes in other situations — under verandas,
in sheds, and in vines growing about houses.

Eff 9 s - — -Three or four, cream to yellowish-brown, with a zone of
darker markings on the larger end. Breeding-season : August to December
or January.

22. Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flab elli for mis Latham
Cac-o-man-tis — Gk, cacos } bad; Gk, mantis , prophet: fla-bell-i-form-is
— L., flabellum, fan; L., forma , shape.

Distribution. — Australia (except north-western Australia and North-
ern Territory) and Tasmania; also occurs in the Aru Islands.

Notes. — Also called Ash-coloured Cuckoo and Storm-bird. Singly or
in pairs, frequenting open forest and scrub-lands. It is a tame and rather
lazy bird, allowing one to approach quite near before it takes flight. Its
call is a mournful trill of about six notes with a downward inflection,
heard more often during the spring and summer months. In the autumn
and winter it usually moves nearer the coastal districts. Food : insects and
their larvae.

Parasitic — recorded foster-parents number about forty-five species.

Egg. — Dull white, heavily coloured all over with small spots of
purplish-brown, with an ill-defined zone at the larger end. Breeding-
season: August to December.

23. Chestnut-breasted Cuckoo Cacomantis castaneiventris Gould
cas-tan -e-i-ven -iris — L., castaneus, chestnut; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York Peninsula) ; also
occurs in the Molucca Islands, Timor, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, inhabiting the tropical scrubs;
placed in this group for comparison with the Fan-tailed Cuckoo. Very
little is known of its habits. Food : beetles and other insects.

Parasitic.

Egg. — No authentic record of its egg is known.

24. Rufous-breasted Bronze Cuckoo Lamprococcyx russatus Gould
Lam'-pro-coc'-cyx — Gk, lampros } bright ; Gk, coccys, cuckoo : rus-sa-tus —
L., russatus , reddened.

Distribution . — Northern and north-eastern Queensland; also occurs in
the Molucca Islands and New Guinea.

Notes . — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting the open forest and
mangroves. Similar in habits to the other Bronze Cuckoos. Usually selects
Warblers ( Gerygone ) as foster-parents.

Parasitic — recorded foster-parents number about thirteen species.

Egg — Light buffy-olive to buffy-olive, minutely freckled with dark
brown; the latter colour is more pronounced at either end and is in the
form of a narrow band around the pointed end. Breeding-season: Sep-
tember to February.

70

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

25. Horsfield Bronze Cuckoo Chalcites basalis Horsfield

Chal-ci-tes — Gk, chalchites , containing bronze : bas-a-lis — L., basalis,
based.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in Java,
the Molucca Islands, and Aru Islands.

Notes. — Also called Narrow-billed Bronze Cuckoo. Usually singly or
in pairs, frequenting open forest and heath-lands. It is a migrant to the
southern parts of Australia and Tasmania, arriving during the spring,
departing at the end of summer. Its call-note is a mournful whistle with
a downward inflection. In the breeding-season its call is often uttered at
night. Food : insects and their larvae.

Parasitic — recorded foster-parents number about sixty-four species,
chiefly those that build domed nests near the ground.

Egg. — Pinkish, uniformly spotted all over with small reddish spots.
Breeding-season : July to January.

26. Little Bronze Cuckoo Lamprococcyx minutillus Gould
min-u-tiir-us — L., minutillus, very little.

Distribution. — Northern Australia ; also occurs from the Malay Archi-
pelago to New Guinea.

Notes. — Little has been recorded about the habits of this species ex-
cept that it frequents open forest country and mangroves.

Parasitic — recorded foster-parents number four species, chiefly
Warblers ( Gerygone ).

Egg. — Uniform greenish-olive. Breeding-season: September to Feb-
ruary.

27. Shining Bronze Cuckoo Lamprococcyx lucidus Gmelin
lu-cid-us — L., lucidus , shining.

Distribution. — Eastern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and
Tasmania; also found in New Zealand, Chatham Island, and accidental
to Macquarie Island.

Notes. — This is the typical Bronze Cuckoo of New Zealand, where it
breeds. On rare occasions specimens have been taken along the eastern
coast of Australia and Tasmania; it is believed that this is one of its
migratory routes. Food: insects and their larvae. In the field this bird
cannot be distinguished from the Golden Bronze Cuckoo.

Parasitic — foster-parents, small insectivorous birds.

Egg. — Uniform greenish-olive or bronze-coloured. Breeding-season :
spring and summer months.

28. Golden Bronze Cuckoo Lamprococcyx plagosus Latham
pla-gd-sus — L., plagosus , mournful.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in the
Pacific Islands.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

7i

Notes . — Also called Broad-billed Bronze Cuckoo. Usually singly or
in pairs, frequenting, for the most part, open forest-lands. Its call is a
series of mournful notes resembling “Pee-e” uttered in succession. This
is an extremely useful bird for it destroys large numbers of injurious cater-
pillars. It is a migrant to the southern parts of Australia; in New South
Wales odd birds may be observed during the winter months. Food : in-
sects and their larvae.

Parasitic — recorded foster-parents number about sixty-four species,
chiefly those species that build domed nests.

Egg. — Pale greenish-olive or a distinct bronze-brown ; if rubbed with
a damp cloth the colouring may be removed, disclosing a pale blue shell.
Breeding-season: August to December.

29. Dusky Robin Amaurodryas vittata Quoy and Gaimard

Am-dur-o-dry-as — Gk, amauros, dark; Gk, dryas, dryad: vit-ta-ta — L.,
vittatus, banded.

Distribution. — Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait.

Notes . — Also called Stump Robin. Usually in pairs or small parties,
frequenting lightly timbered country and clearings around homesteads. It
is an active bird and very friendly, being a general favourite with orchard-
ists. Its call-note is low and monotonous. Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of rootlets, pieces of bark,
and grass ; lined with fur or horse-hair. Usually placed on the side of a
stump, at the end of a log, and occasionally in a tree some height from
the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, apple-green, darker at the larger end, some-
times spotted and blotched with reddish-brown. Breeding-season: July
to December.

72

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XI

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

(Some Migrants)

1- Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris Latham — 1A. Female.

Pach'-y-ceph-al-a — Gk, pachys, thick; Gk, cepliale , head: ru-fi-ven-tris —
L., rufus , red ; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Rufous-breasted Whistler, Rufous-breasted
Thickhead, Ring Coachman, Thunder-bird, Echong, and Little Thrush.
Usually in pairs, arriving in early September, departing during February
or March. It procures most of its food among the branches of trees. It
is one of the first birds to usher in the morn with its loud melodious call
like “E-chong-E-chong,” followed by a succession of loud rich notes,
which are poured forth simultaneously with any loud and sudden noise,
like the discharge of a gun or a peal of thunder. Food: chiefly insects;
also native fruits and berries.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, scantily composed of dried
twigs and grasses; lined inside with finer grasses and rootlets. Usually
built in an upright forked branch of any suitable tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, dull olive to olive-brown, freckled, spotted, and
blotched with shades of brown, often forming a zone at the larger end.
Breeding-season : September to January.

2. White- winged Triller Lalage tricolor Swainson — 2A. Female
Lal'-a-gc — Lalage , girl's name (classical) : tri-col-or — L., tricolor, three-
coloured.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and New Guinea; accidental to
Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called White-shouldered Caterpillar-eater and Peewee-
lark. Usually in pairs, arriving in September, departing during February.
It has a melodious song, the “Joey-joey” notes are uttered while flying
from tree to tree. Some years it is very plentiful, generally coinciding with
the years that cicadas are numerous. Food : insects and their larvae, chiefly
procured among the leaves of trees.

Nest. — A small, open, shallow structure, composed of very fine root-
lets and dried grasses woven together with cobwebs ; sometimes decorated
on the outside with pieces of bark and spiders’ egg-bags. Usually placed
in a horizontal fork of a tree; some are placed in upright forks, when, as
a rule, they are larger (deeper).

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

73

Eggs . — Usually three, light or rich bluish-green, heavily blotched with
reddish or chestnut-brown markings, which sometimes obscure the ground
colour. Breeding-season: September to January.

3. Varied Triller Lalage leucomela Vigors and Horsfield — 3A. Female
leuc-o-mel'-a — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, melas ( melanos ), black.

Distribution. — Tropical Australia and the coastal districts of eastern
Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales.

N otes — Also called the Pied Caterpillar-eater and White-eyebrowed
Caterpillar-eater. Mostly stationary, but in New South Wales it is a
migrant ; arrives during October and departs in February or March. Seen
mostly in pairs ; much shyer in habits than the White-winged Triller, its
song is similar, but much softer, some of the notes resembling those of
the Cicada-bird. Food: insects and their larvae; also certain native fruits
and berries.

N est . — A small, shallow, saucer-shaped structure, composed of plant-
stalks, rootlets, and grasses, woven together with cobwebs ; usually built
at the junction of a thin forked horizontal branch, and near the end of it.

. Egg.— Pale to bright apple-green, uniformly blotched and spotted
with markings of reddish or chestnut-brown, sometimes forming a zone at
the larger end. Breeding-season : in eastern Australia from October to
January or February.

4. Cicada-bird (Jardine Caterpillar-eater) Edoliisoma temirostre

Jardine — 4A. Female

E-dol'-i-i-sdm-Or— Gk, edolios, a kind of bird; Gk, soma , body: ten-u-i -
ros-tre — L., tennis , slender; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Australia, chiefly coastal and
contiguous districts.

N otes. — “Cicada-bird” is an appropriate name ; its call-notes resemble
the buzzing sound of a large cicada, like “Kree-kree,” uttered continu-
ously. Mostly seen in pairs ; arrives in New South Wales towards the end
of September and departs during February. Food: insects; fond of
cicadas, procured among the leaves and branches of trees.

Nest . — A small, open, shallow structure, composed of lichen, pieces
of thin bark, plant-stems, and leaves, woven together with cobwebs ; lined
with finer materials, and decorated on the outside with lichen. An average
nest measures 3^ by 2 inches. Usually built into the angle of a forked
horizontal branch of a tree, up to 70 feet or more from the ground.

Egg— Varying from pale bluish to greenish-grey, spotted and
blotched with umber, slaty-brown, and underlying markings of lavender.
Breeding-season: October to January.

5 • Leaden Flycatcher Myiagra rubecnla Latham — 5A. Female
My-i-ag'-ra — Gk, myiagra , flycatcher : ru-be-cu-la — L., rubeculus , reddish.

Distribution . — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, and
eastern Australia (from Cape York to Victoria) ; also found in New
Guinea; accidental to Tasmania.

74

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Usually in pairs, arriving in New South Wales in Septem-
ber, departing during March. Chiefly a coastal bird; very active, with a
peculiar and distinctive trembling movement of the tail. Call-note, a
harsh grating noise resembling that of certain species of frogs, hence the
name “Frog-bird” used in some districts. Food : insects, chiefly flies,
caught on the wing or among the leaves and branches of the tall trees.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of fine bark woven to-
gether with cobwebs; lined with fine rootlets, and decorated on the out-
side with pieces of bark and lichen. Usually built on top of a horizontal
dead limb of a tree, and invariably protected from above by a live limb;
generally at a considerable height from the ground.

Eggs . — Usually three, white or faint bluish-white, spotted round the
centre or on the larger end with brown and lavender markings which often
form a well-defined zone. Breeding-season : October to January,

6. Satin Flycatcher Myiagra cyanoleuca Vieillot — 6A. Female
cy'-an-o-leuc'-a — Gk, cyanos , blue; Gk, leucos, white.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia (from northern Queensland to Vic-
toria) and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Shining Flycatcher and Satin Sparrow. Arrives
in south-eastern Australia during September and departs at end of Febru-
ary. Usually in pairs, frequenting the tallest trees. Similar in habits to
the Leaden Flycatcher, but has a clearer note. Food: insects, procured
chiefly on the wing.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, composed of strips of bark matted together with
cobwebs, lined with rootlets and a little hair; externally covered with cob-
webs and frequently a few pieces of lichen. Usually built on a horizontal
dead limb, protected above by a live limb, at a considerable height from the
ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, dull white to faint bluish or greenish-white,
spotted with brown and lavender markings, usually with a well-defined
zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: November to January.

7. Black-eared Cuckoo Ozvenavis osculans Gould

Owen-a-ms — Owen , Richard Owen Mathews ; L., avis , bird : os-cu-lans—
L., osculans , coming together.

Distribution. — Australia generally, rare in coastal districts.

Motes. — One of the rarest species of Cuckoos found in Australia.
Usually met singly, very quiet in habits; it procures most of it food-
insects — on or near the ground; flight similar to that of the Bronze
Cuckoos ; rarely calls ; its note is long drawn out, gradually fading away.

Parasitic — three authentic foster-parents known. It selects the nest
of the Speckled Warbler chiefly.

Egg . — Uniform dark chocolate in colour; very similar to that of
the Speckled Warbler. Breeding-season: September to January (New

South Wales) ; March (central Australia).

Plate XI

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

75

8. Pallid Cuckoo Cuculns pallidus Latham

Cu-cu-lus — L., cuculus, cuckoo: pall'-id-us — L., pallidus , pallid.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Grasshopper Hawk, Harbinger-of-Spring, Storm-
bird, Semitone-bird, Scale-bird, and Brain-fever bird. Usually met singly;
arrives in August and departs during February. It has an undulating and
rapid flight with the true cuckoo habit of elevating its tail when alighting.
Call, a series of loud crescendo notes, ascending the scale, varied occa-
sionally with a few harsh notes. One of the most useful of birds, destroy-
ing large numbers of insects and their larvae. Caterpillars form the chief
article of diet, especially those covered with hair-like bristles which few
species of birds eat.

Parasitic — known foster-parents number about eighty- four species
(chiefly Honey-eaters). Usually selects as foster-parents species that
build open nests.

Egg . — Uniform flesh colour; some have a few dots of a darker hue
scattered over the shell. Breeding-season: September to January (New
South Wales).

9. Oriental Cuckoo Cuculus optatus Gould
op-ta-tus — L., optatus, wished for.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, and accidental to south-eastern
Australia; also found in Siberia, India, to New Guinea.

Notes. — Very little is known of this Cuckoo, except that it is seldom
found far from the coast. It is remarkably shy and solitary in habits, and
its call is not unlike that of the Pallid Cuckoo.

Parasitic — recorded foster parent Phyller gates coronatus (Omston).

Egg. — White; a very perfect elongated oval, a shade narrower at
one end, measuring 0-8 in. by 0*55 in. (Allan Omston).

10. Sacred Kingfisher Halcyon sanctus Vigors and Horsfield
Hat-cy-on — Gk, alcyon, a sea-bird, later the kingfisher ; hal, the sea ; cyon,
breeding: sanc-tus — L., sanctus, sacred.

Distribution . — Australia (except central Australia and Tasmania) ;
occurs also in Sumatra, Borneo, New Hebrides, New Caledonia, and New
Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Wood Kingfisher, Forest Kingfisher, Tree King-
fisher, and Green Kingfisher. Usually in pairs, arrives in August or early
September, departs in March. Odd pairs often remain throughout the
year. It has a peevish note usually uttered four times, frequently during
the night; it emits harsh cries if one approaches its nest, and will attack
an intruder. Food : small lizards, fish, crabs, and larger insects and their
larvae.

Nest . — In a hollow limb of a tree, in a bank, or in a termites’ (white
ants) nest in a tree. The birds drill a hole in the termites’ nest by piercing
it with the tips of their closed bills. After the entrance is formed they
excavate a chamber large enough to accommodate themselves and family.

Eggs. — Four to six, pure white and rounded. Breeding-season : Octo-
ber to January.

7 6

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

11. Forest Kingfisher Halcyon macleayi Jar dine and Selby
macleayi — W. S. Macleay (1792-1865), naturalist, founder of natural his-
tory in New South Wales.

Distribution. — North-western, northern, and eastern Australia to as
far south as north-eastern New South Wales.

Notes: — Also called Macleay’s Kingfisher, Bush Kingfisher, and Blue
Kingfisher. It is a stationary species in northern Australia; arrives in
north-eastern New South Wales in September, departs in March. It is
very similar in habits to the Sacred Kingfisher ; most vicious when nesting ;
the call is loud and is uttered intermittently throughout the day. Food :
large insects, small lizards, fish, and crabs. The female does not possess
the white nuchal collar, the colour of the head taking its place.

Nest . — A hollowed-out cavity in a termites’ nest on a tree, at an
average height of 30 feet from the ground.

Eggs.—. Four to six, pure white and rounded. Breeding-season: Octo-
ber to December or January.

12. Red-backed Kingfisher Halcyon pyrrhopygius Gould
pyr-rlio-pyg'-i-us (g=j) — Gk, pyrrhos, fire-coloured; Gk, pyge, rump,
tail.

Distribution. — Australia generally, chiefly the inland portions.

Notes. — Also called Golden Kingfisher. Usually in pairs. Arrives in
New South Wales during September, departs in March; only stragglers
reach the coastal districts, and it is rarely seen east of the Dividing Range.
It keeps to dry areas, often miles from water; call, a single mournful
note, uttered at short intervals, but kept up incessantly. Food: large in-
sects and their larvse and small lizards.

Nest. — A tunnel in a bank of a dry creek, or in a termites’ nest.

Eggs . — Four or five, pure white and rounded. Breeding-season : Sep-
tember or October to December or January.

13. Dollar-bird (Broad-billed Roller) Eurystomus orientalis Linne
Eur-y-stom-us — Gk, eurys, wide; Gk, stoma , mouth: or-i-en-ta-lis — L.,
orientalis , eastern.

Distribution . — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, and
eastern Australia; also as stragglers in South Australia, Tasmania, Lord
Howe Island, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Usually in pairs; arrives late September or early October,
departs at end of February or March. It spends much of its time perched
on the highest dead branch of a tall tree, from which it will dart
into the air in pursuit of some flying insect. At dusk it “hawks” con-
tinuously above the tree-tops, often remaining on the wing for an hour or so
longer. It is named “Dollar-bird” from the round whitish spot on each
wing seen when in flight, and “Roller” from its habit of somersaulting
when on the wing. The note is peculiarly harsh and discordant ;
uttered chiefly when on the wing, particularly towards sunset. Food:
large flying insects.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

77

N est. — In a hollow spout or in a hole in a dead tree, always at a great
height from the ground.

Eggs . — Three to five, pure white and rounded. Breeding-season : Oc-
tober to December.

14. Rainbow-bird M crops ornatus Latham

Mer-ops — Gk, merops , bee-eater: or-na-tus — L., ornatus, adorned.

Distribution. — Australia generally; also occurs from the Celebes to
New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Bee-eater, Spinetail, Sandpiper, Pintail, and
Kingfisher. Usually in flocks; arrives in September or October, departs
in February or March. A handsome bird with a graceful, occasionally
erratic flight, and a shrill whirring call-note. It prefers the more open
areas to the thick forest country; procures its food on the wing, spends a
good deal of its time perched on dead limbs, fences, and stumps, from
which positions it will dart out in pursuit of some insect.

Nest. — A tunnel in the ground, from 1 to 3 feet long, with a cavity
at the end. Usually the tunnel is slanting and made in the side of a de-
pression in sandy soil. The nesting cavity is lined with the castings of
beetles and other insects.

Eggs. — Five to seven, pure white and glossy. Breeding-season : Octo-
ber to January and February.

15. White-breasted Wood-swallow Artamus leucorhynchus Linne
Ar-tam-us — Gk, artamos, butcher: leuc-o-rhyncK -us — Gk, leucos, white;
Gk, rhynchos (rhugchos) , beak.

Distribution. — Australia (with the exception of the south-western
portion).

Notes. — Usually in flocks; arrives in New South Wales in Septem-
ber, departs in March; it does not occur in the southern portions of this
State. Is always found in the vicinity of water. A beautiful bird in
coloration and graceful in flight; also very affectionate. A most useful
species, destroys immense numbers of injurious insects and their larvae.

Nest ' — A cup-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses; built in
the fork of a dead tree, or in a hollow spout, often in an old mud nest of
the Magpie-lark.

Eggs . — Three or four, white or creamy-white, spotted and blotched
with pale brown, yellowish-brown, and very faint bluish-grey markings,
chiefly at the larger end. Breeding-season: August or September to Janu-
ary or February.

16. Black-faced Wood-swallow Artamus melanops Gould
mel'-an-ops — Gk, melas ( melanos), black; Gk, ops, face.

Distribution. — Interior of Australia generally.

Notes. — Chiefly stationary, but is a winter visitor to south-western

78

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Australia ; placed in this group for comparison with other species of the
genus. Usually in pairs or small flocks. It is similar in habits to the
Dusky Wood-swallow.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of rootlets, small
twigs, and plant-stalks; lined with finer materials, and occasionally horse-
hair. Usually placed in a small shrub or bush, about 3 or 4 feet from the
ground.

Eggs. — Usually four, fleshy-white, uniformly spotted and blotched
with dull reddish and umber-brown, and faint underlying markings of
bluish-grey. Breeding-season: September to December (New South
Wales).

17. White-browed Wood-swallow Artamus superciliosus Gould
su-per-cil-i-os'-us — L., superciliosus, browed.

Distribution. — Australia (with the exception of the north-western
portion).

Notes. — Also called Summer-bird and Martin. Mostly in flocks, often
accompanied by the Masked Wood-swallow; arrives in southern Australia
during September or October and departs in late January. It is one of
the most graceful and useful of our birds, and destroys countless numbers
of destructive insects.

Nest. — A frail, open, shallow structure, composed of dried grasses,
rootlets, strips of bark, and thin twigs; lined with finer materials. Built
in a variety of situations, but generally in a bush or tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, whitish-brown to greyish-green, spotted and
blotched with pale umber and a few underlying markings of pale slate,
forming a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: October to January.

18. Masked Wood-swallow Artamus personatus Gould
per-sd-na-tus — L., personatus, masked.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Blue-bird, Bush Martin, and Blue Martin. Ar-
rives in southern Australia in flocks, often in the company of the White-
browed Wood-swallow, during September or October, departs at the end
of January. It is similar in habits to the White-browed species. Both
species may visit a locality regularly year after year, then, without any
known reason, be absent for many seasons.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, irregularly composed of thin twigs;
neatly lined with rootlets and grasses. It is usually built in a low bush
or sapling, at a height up to 10 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, greyish-white to light greenish-grey, clouded
and blotched with shades of brown and a few underlying spots of pale
grey. Breeding-season : August to December or January.

19. Tree Martin Hylochelidon nigricans Vieillot

Hy-lo-chel-i-don — Gk, hyle, wood; Gk, chelidon, swallow: ni'-gri-cans —
L., nigricans, blackish.

BIRDS OF THE OPEN FOREST

79

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania ; also occurs in the Moluccas,
Aru Islands, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Tree-swallow. Arrives in southern Australia in
flocks during August, departs at the end of March or April. Common in
the interior as well as the coastal districts, particularly those areas studded
with tall and wide-spreading trees, where one sees it “hawking” insects
on the wing. Odd pairs remain throughout the year.

Nest. — Usually in a hole of a dead tree or in a cleft of a "cliff ; lined
with dead leaves. Mud is often used to narrow the entrance.

Eggs. — Four or five, creamy or pearly-white, occasionally with flecks
of reddish-brown. Breeding-season: August to January or February.

20. Rufous Song-lark Cinclorhamphus mathewsi Iredale

Cin-clo-rhampJi-us — Gk, cinclos ( kigklos ), bird; Gk, rhamphos, bill*
mathewsi — Gregory M. Mathews, ornithologist.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Rufous-rumped Singing-lark and Skylark. Ar-
rives in New South Wales and Victoria during the latter end of August,
departs again in February. It is a beautiful songster, with rich, sweet,
musical notes, usually uttered as the bird soars high in the air or flies from
tree to tree. Food : insects, mostly procured on the ground.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, composed of dried grasses ; lined with finer
grasses, and horse-hair when available; it is built in a depression in the
ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, pure white to reddish and faint purplish-white,
almost obscured with freckles, dots, or small irregular-shaped markings of
reddish or purplish-brown which predominate at the larger end. Breed-
ing-season: September to January (New South Wales).

Ho

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XII

SOME HONEY-EATERS OF THE OPEN FOREST

1. Tawny-breasted Honey-eater Xanthotis flavwenter Lesson

Xanth-dt'-is — Gk, xanthos, yellow ; Gk, otos , genitive of ous, ear : flav-i-
ven-ter — L., flavus, yellow ; L., venter, belly.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to the Watson
River.

Notes. — Also called Streaked Honey-eater and Streak-naped Honey-
eater. Plentiful, frequenting alike scrub, open forest, and mangroves. It
is a silent bird. Food: chiefly insects and nectar, procured among the
blossoms and foliage.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and fibre;
lined with fibre and a few fine rootlets. Usually suspended from a hori-
zontal forked branch of a tree, up to 50 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, pinkish-white, marked all over with small spots of bright
brownish-red, which are thicker towards the larger end, where small
splashes of pale purple occur. Breeding-season: probably November
to January or February.

2. Spiny-cheeked Honey-eater Acanthagenys rufogularis Gould
Ac-anlJi ~a-gen-ys — Gk, acantha, spine; Gk, genys, cheek: ru-fo-gu-la-ris
— L., rufus, red ; L., gularis, throated.

Distribution . — Interior of Australia generally.

Notes. — Fairly common in the scrub-lands, this species is similar in
habits to the Little Wattle-bird. It has a pleasant song, a series of
delightful gurgling notes, which frequently end abruptly. Food: insects
and nectar.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of grasses and rootlets, well
matted together with cobwebs and cocoons ; lined with hair, fur, wool, or
other soft materials. Usually suspended from a forked branch of a tree
or a clump of mistletoe, at heights up to 50 feet from the ground.

Eggs . — Two or three, very pale olive-green, spotted, chiefly at the
larger end, with dark to light umber and purplish-grey markings. Breeding-
season: August to the end of November.

3. Striped Honey-eater Plectorhyncha lanceolata Gould
Plec-to-rliyncJi -a — Gk, plectos , straight; Gk, rhynchos ( rhugchos ), beak:
lan-ce-o-la-ta — L., lanceolatus, lance-shaped.

Distribution . — Eastern Australia, from mid-Queensland to South
Australia.

Plate XII

' 1

1 1

I

1 ' 1 1 1 ' 1

A ■ 1 ■ 1 1

/

2

3

3 6 7 8

One foot

9 /O 1/

SOME HONEY-EATERS OF THE OPEN FOREST

SOME HONEY-EATERS OF THE OPEN FOREST

81

Notes. — Also called Lanceolated Honey-eater. In pairs or small
parties, inhabiting the scrub-lands chiefly composed of native pine, she-oak,
and mallee. Its song is a pleasing warble — “Chirp, chirp, cherry, cherry;”
other notes resemble those of the Olive-backed Oriole. Food : insects and
nectar, procured among the blossoms and foliage.

N est. — A neatly made, purse-shaped structure, composed of grasses
and rootlets, neatly woven together with plant down, sheep’s wool, and
occasionally emu feathers; lined with fine grasses, hair, and feathers.
Usually suspended near the extremity of a drooping and swaying branch
of a she-oak or other tree.

Eggs .— Three or four, very pale pinkish-white, minutely spotted and
speckled with reddish-brown and purplish-grey, the markings being more
numerous at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to December.

4. Blue-faced Honey-eater Entomyzon cyanotis Latham

En-to-myz-on — Gk, entoma, insects ; Gk, myzein , to suck : cy -a-ndt' -is —
Gk, cyanos, blue; Gk, otos, genitive of ous, ear.

Distribution. — Australia (except the south-western portion).

Notes. — Also called Banana-bird and Blue-eye. In pairs or small
parties, usually inhabiting open forest country. It is very pugnacious, and
has a rather loud and monotonous call- note which it frequently utters.
Food: insects, nectar, native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — A platform of sticks and twigs, upon which a cup-shaped
structure of strips of bark is formed; lined with fine strips and shreds
of bark, dried grasses, and hair. Usually built on an outer branch of a
tree, often at a considerable height from the ground. This species often
uses a deserted nest of the White-browed Babbler as a nesting site.

Eggs. — Two to five, varying from a rich salmon to pale fleshy-buff,
sparingly spotted and blotched with purplish-red or chestnut- brown mark-
ings, with a few underlying blotches of pale slate. Breeding-season: )une
to January.

5. Noisy Miner Myzantha melanocephala Latham

Myz-antli-a — Gk, myzein , to suck; Gk, anthos, flower: meV-an-o-ceph* «
al-a — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, cephale , head.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cairns (northern Queens-
land) to South Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Garrulous Honey-eater, Black-headed Miner,
Snake-bird, Cherry-eater, Soldier-bird, Micky, and Squeaker. In small
parties, frequenting open forest country and partly cleared lands. It is
a restless, inquisitive, bold, and noisy bird, keeping up a constant chatter
of loud speaking notes. Food: insects, procured among the leaves and
blossoms and on the ground; also pollen, native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of roots, twigs,
strips of bark and grasses, frequently bound together and ornamented on
the outside with small silken cocoons, and wool ; lined with fine grasses

82

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

and hair. Usually placed in a bush or tree at heights up to 20 feet or
more from the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, pale pinkish-white, profusely spotted with
reddish-chestnut and purplish-grey markings, chiefly about the largef
end. Breeding-season: July to December or January.

6. Dusky Miner Myzantha obscura Gould
ob-scur'-a — L., obscurus, dusky.

Distribution. — South-western Australia and the mallee country of
South Australia and Victoria.

Notes. — Usually in small parties, inhabiting open forest and mallee
country. Similar in habits to the Noisy Miner. Food: chiefly insects;
also native fruits and berries, procui ed both on the ground or in the
vegetation.

Nest. — A rather bulky, cup-shaped structure, composed of grass and
dry twigs ; lined with fine grasses, hair, and other soft materials. Usually
placed in a bush or small tree, up to 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, rich salmon-buflF, spotted with rich reddish-
brown and pale purplish-brown markings, chiefly at the larger end.
Breeding-season: July or August to February.

7. Yellow-throated Miner Myzantha flazhgula Gould
flav-ig'-u-la — L., flavus , yellow; L., gula, throat.

Distribution. — Interior of Australia, coastal in north-western Aus-
tralia, and on Melville Island.

Notes. — Usually in small parties, frequenting open forest and scrub-
lands. Very similar in habits to the Noisy Miner. It is a very tame bird
and a constant visitor to the gardens of inland homesteads. Food : insects,
nectar, native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses
and twigs ; lined with fine grasses, hair, and other soft materials. Usually
placed in a bush or tree at heights varying from 6 to 20 feet or more
from the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, rich salmon-pink, spotted, chiefly about the
larger end, with reddish-brown and purplish-grey. Breeding-season : July
to November or December.

8. White-gaped Honey-eater Stomiopera unicolor Gould
Stom-i-op’-er-a — “error for Stomioptera” — Gk, stoma, mouth; stomion,
little mouth; pera, derivation unknown: u-ni-col-or — L., unicolor, of one
colour.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia, from Fitzroy River in the
north-west to Leichhardt River in Queensland; also Melville Island.

Notes. Fairly common in the scrubs bordering rivers and creeks ; it

is very noisy, uttering a loud whistling call-note. Food: nectar, insects,
native fruits, and berries.

SOME HONEY-EATERS OF THE OPEN FOREST

83

Nest . — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of thin strips of
bark and dried grasses; lined with fine grass and other soft materials.
Generally placed in a bushy tree.

Eggs — Usually two, pale pinkish-white, profusely spotted and
blotched with reddish-brown, chestnut, and purplish markings, which are
more numerous at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to January.

9. Silver-crowned Friar-bird Philemon argenticeps Gould
Phil-e-mon — Gk, philemon, loving: ar-gent'-i-ceps — L., argenteus , silver;
-ceps, from L., caput, itis, head.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes . — Fairly plentiful in the flowering trees of the forests, and
occasionally observed in the mangroves. Similar in habits to the Noisy
Friar-bird. Food: insects, nectar, native fruits, and berries.

Nest . — A deep, cup-shaped structure, very similar to that of the Noisy
Friar-bird.

Eggs . — Usually two, pale pinkish-buff, spotted with reddish-brown,
purplish-brown, and purplish-grey markings, chiefly at the larger end.
Breeding-season: August to January or even March.

10. Melville Island Friar-bird Philemon gordoni Mathews
gordoni — personal name.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and Melville Island.
Notes. — Very little is known of its habits.

Nest. — Not described.

Eggs. — Not described.

11. Little Friar-bird Philemon citreogularis Gould
cit-re-o-gu-la-ris — L., citreus , yellow; L., gularis, throated.

Distribution. — Northern, eastern, and southern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Little Leatherhead and Yellow-throated Friar-
bird. Fairly plentiful in open forest country of the inland districts. Very
similar in habits to the Noisy Friar-bird. Food: insects, nectar, native
fruits, and berries.

Nest . — A deep, cup-shaped structure, loosely composed of thin grasses
and strips of bark, bound together with cobwebs; lined with very thin
dried grasses. Usually placed near the end of a drooping branch of a
tree, sometimes overhanging water, at heights up to 30 feet or more from
the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, pinkish-buff, spotted and blotched with chestnut
and purplish-brown, the markings being more numerous at the larger
end. Breeding-season : August to December or February.

84

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

12. Helmeted Friar-bird Philemon yorki Mathews
yorlci — Cape York (northern Queensland).

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Queensland to Mackay.

Notes. — Fairly common in open forest country, frequenting the
flowering trees. It is aggressive towards smaller birds, as well as being
exceptionally noisy; its call-note, resembling “Poor devil, poor devil,” is
constantly repeated. Food: insects, nectar, native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark,
grasses, and roots, compactly woven together; lined with fine grasses and
rootlets. Usually suspended from a forked branch of a tree, at heights
up to 40 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, pinkish-white, spotted and boldly blotched
with reddish-brown and dull purple, the markings being bigger and more
numerous about the larger end. Breeding-season: August to January.

13. Noisy Friar-bird Philemon corniculatus Latham
corn-ic-u-la -tus — L., corniculatus, horned.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Leatherhead, Monk, Four-o’-clock, Pimlico, and
Poor Soldier. It is plentiful in open forest, brush, and scrub-lands, being
a noisy and pugnacious bird of nomadic habits. At times it does consider-
able damage in orchards. Its call resembles the words “Poor soldier,”
“Pimlico,” “Four-o’-clock,” and so on. Food: insects, nectar, native fruits,
berries, and cultivated fruits.

Nest. — A deep, open, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
bark and grasses, compactly woven together with cobwebs and cocoons;
neatly lined with dried grasses. Usually suspended from a drooping
branch, often overhanging water, at heights up to 50 feet or more from
the ground.

Eggs. — Two to four, pinkish-buff, spotted with clouded markings of
chestnut and dull purplish-grey. Breeding-season : August to December or
January.

14. Red Wattle-bird Anthochara carunculata Shaw
An-tho-chcer’-a — Gk, anthos, flower; Gk, chairein, to rejoice: car-un-cu-
la'-ta — L., carcunculatus, with small pieces of flesh.

Distribution.— From southern Queensland to Victoria to south-
western Australia; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Gill-bird, Wattled Honey-eater, and Mutton-bird.
Nomadic in movements, following the eucalypts, angophoras, and banksias
as these trees blossom. It frequents chiefly open forest country in the
spring and summer, where it usually breeds, and the heath-lands in the
autumn and winter to feed on the flowering banksias. Its flesh is excellent
eating, and great numbers are killed each year for the table. It has a series
of loud, harsh call-notes, difficult to imitate; also a double whistling note
when startled. Food : insects and nectar, also cultivated fruits.

SOME HONEY-EATERS OF THE OPEN FOREST

85

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of twigs, grasses, and strips
of bark; lined with grasses, soft pieces of bark, wool, or hair. Usually
placed in a bush or tree at heights up to 30 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs . — Two or three, pinkish-buff, spotted with reddish-brown and
purplish-grey, the markings being more numerous at the larger end.
Breeding-season: July to December.

15. Yellow Wattle-bird Anthochcera paradoxa Daudin
par-a-dox'-a — L., paradoxus, paradoxical.

Distribution . — Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait.

Notes . — Also called Wattle-bird. In pairs or flocks, according to the
season of the year. Frequents alike open forest and scrub-lands where
it feeds among the flowering eucalypts and banksias. Its flesh is excellent
eating and, until it was placed on the list of protected birds, great numbers
were killed. It has a loud and discordant call-note and a double whistling
alarm note. Food : insects and nectar.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of small twigs, loosely put
together; lined with fine grass and wool; it is often decorated on the
outside with cocoons. Usually placed in a forked branch of a tree at
heights up to 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs . — Two or three, pinkish-buff, spotted with reddish-brown and
purplish-grey, chiefly at the larger end. Breeding-season : July to
December.

86

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XI 1 1

GROUND-FEEDING PIGEONS AND DOVES

1. Peaceful Dove Geopelia placida Gould

Ge-o-pel-i-a — Gk, ge, earth; Gk, pelia ( peleia ), dove: pld-cid-a — L.,
placidus, quiet.

Distribution. — Australia (except the south-western portion).

Notes . — Also called Ground-dove and Doo-doo. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting open forest country ; it is frequently seen on the
sides of roads and near homesteads. Call-note, a melodious cooing —
“Doo-del-oo.” Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants, procured
on the ground.

Nest. — A frail platform of thin twigs, laid crosswise or interlaced
together. Usually placed on a horizontal forked branch of a tree at
heights up to 20 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, pure white. Breeding-season: August to Janu-
ary; throughout the year if conditions suitable.

2. Diamond-dove Geopelia cuneata Latham
cun-e-a-ta — L., cuneatus, wedge-shaped.

Distribution. — Australia (except the coastal districts of south-
eastern Australia).

Notes. — Also called Little Dove, Turtle-dove, and Red-eyed Dove.
Usually in pairs or flocks, chiefly frequenting country in the neighbour-
hood of rivers and permanent water. It has a rather mournful call;
this species is fearless in disposition. Food: seeds of grasses and herb-
aceous plants, procured on the ground.

Nest. — A frail structure of thin twigs, portions of climbing plants,
grasses. Placed in a fork of a low bush or tree, often in a dead bush
or on top of a stump.

Eggs. — Usually two, pure white. Breeding-season: September to
December or January (New South Wales) ; May to September (north-
western Australia).

3. Bar-shouldered Dove Geopelia humeralis Temminck
hu-mer-a-lis — L., humeralis , shouldered.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, Queens-
land, and northern New South Wales; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes . — Also called Barred-shouldered Dove and Mangrove-dove.

ground-feeding pigeons and doves

87

IJiiaHy 111 pairs or flocks, frequenting the scrubs bordering rivers, creeks,

“Ur ^i P t,’ a |' K ’> rnan £''° ves ; Its call is rather a loud “Coo-coo,” resembling
Hollyhock, uttered at long intervals. Food: seeds of grasses and herb-

ground P antS ’ 3nd natlve fruits and berries, procured mostly on the

Nest.— A frail structure of thin twigs, portions of climbing plants,

and sometimes grass. Frequently placed in a low bush or tree in the
scrub.

EQ9 s - Usually two, pure white. Breeding-season : August to March.

4. Plumed Pigeon Lophophaps plumifera Gould

Loph-o-phaps — Gk, lopho, crest; Gk, phaps, pigeon: plU-mif'-er-a — L.,
pluma , feather; L., fero, I bear.

Distribution . — Northern Australia and the interior of southern
Australia.

Notes . — Also called Plumed Bronze-wing and Spinifex Pigeon.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting open stony country studded with
low, scrubby bushes and spinifex. It is remarkably tame and difficult to
flush from the ground. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants,
procured on the ground.

Nest . — A slight depression in the ground sheltered by a low bush
or clump of spinifex.

Eggs . — Usually two, pale creamy-white. Breeding-season : after
rains, throughout the year.

5. Red-plumed Pigeon Lophophaps ferruginea Gould
ferr-u-gin-e-a — L., fcrrugineus, rust-coloured.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, from Shark Bay to west
Kimberley.

Notes . — Also called Rust-coloured Bronze-wing. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting open rocky country, studded with low bushes and
spinifex, adjacent to water. Its plumage harmonizes wonderfully with
its surroundings ; when flushed, it rises with a loud whirr and flies short
distances. Call-note, a loud “Coo.” Food: seeds of grasses and herb-
aceous plants, procured on the ground.

Nest . — A slight, grass-lined depression in the ground, sheltered by a
low bush or clump of spinifex.

Eggs . — Usually two, pale creamy-white. Breeding-season: no fixed
period ; breeds after rains.

6. White-quilled Rock-pigeon Petrophassa albipennis Gould
Pet-ro-phass -a — Gk, pctros , rock; Gk, phassa , pigeon: al-bi-pen-nis — L.,
albus, white ; L., penna, feather.

Distribution . — From Kimberley (north-western Australia) to western
Northern Territory.

88

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Rock-pigeon. Usually in pairs or small flocks,
frequenting sandstone country. As a rule it is rather a shy bird, difficult
to flush, relying on its protective coloration to render it inconspicuous. If
flushed, it rises with a whirr, but only flies a short distance, and usually
alights on a bare rock. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants,
procured on the ground.

Nest. — A slight hollow about 2 inches in depth, scooped in the ground
near a small tuft of spinifex or stone; lined with soft dead grass.

Eggs , — Usually two, cream-colour or creamy-white. Breeding-
season : eggs have been taken in July and October.

7- Chestnut-quilled Rock-pigeon Petrophassa rufipennis Collett
ru-fi-peri-nis — L., rufus, red; L., penna, feather.

Distribution. — Arnhem Land (Northern Territory).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the stony parts
of the sandstone hills. It is a shy bird, hiding among the rocks, the
colours of which harmonize perfectly with its plumage. Food: seeds of
grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest . — Not described.

Eggs. — Not described.

8. Crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes Temminck

O f -cy-phaps — Gk, ocys (okus), swift; Gk, phaps, pigeon: loph-o-tes — Gk,
lophotes , crested.

Distribution. — Australia (except the north-western portion).

Notes. — Also called Top-knot Pigeon and Crested Bronze-wing.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting chiefly the inland districts. Its
favourite haunts are scrubs bordering waterways or about dams. Its
flight is rapid, accompanied with a loud whirring noise of the wings. Food :
seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants, procured on the ground.

Nest . — A frail platform composed of twigs laid crosswise; usually
placed in a bushy horizontal branch, at heights up to 20 feet from the
ground.

Eggs . — Usually two, pure white. Breeding-season: practically
throughout the year, but chiefly during the spring and summer months.

9- Squatter Pigeon Geophaps scripta Temminck

Ge-o-phaps — Gk, ge } earth; Gk, phaps , pigeon: scrip' -ta — L., scriptus ,
written.

Distribution . — Eastern Northern Territory, Queensland, and western
New South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Partridge Bronze-wing. Usually in small flocks,
frequenting chiefly the open country of the inland districts. When flushed,
the flock rises with a loud whirring noise of the wings, the individuals
scattering to seek cover among the grass. Its flesh is excellent eating, and

Plate XIII

GROUND-FEEDING PIGEONS AND DOVES

GROUND-FEEDING PIGEONS AND DOVES

89

because of this great numbers were destroyed; it is now considered a
rare species. Its name, “Squatter/* is due to its habit of crouching down
to hide itself when approached. Food : seeds of grasses and herbaceous
plants, procured on the ground.

Nest. — A shallow depression, scooped in the ground ; lined, more or
less, with dead, soft grass ; mostly sheltered by a tuft of grass or low bush.

Eggs. — Usually two, creamy-white. Breeding-season : regularly Sep-
tember to January, though this species breeds at almost any period of
the year.

10. Partridge Pigeon Geophaps smiths Jardine and Selby

smithi — Sir James E. Smith (1759-1828), botanist, president and founder
of the Linnean Society, London.

Distribution. — From Kimberley (north-western Australia) to the
Gulf country (north-western Queensland).

Notes. — Also called Smith’s Partridge Bronze-wing, Naked-eyed
Partridge Pigeon, and Bare-eyed Partridge Pigeon. Usually in small
flocks, its favourite haunts being open country adjacent to water. Very
similar in habits to the Squatter Pigeon. It is said to be nomadic. Food :
seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest. — A shallow depression in the ground, lined with soft dead
grasses, and often sheltered by a tuft of grass or a low bush.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale creamy-white. Breeding-season: normally
August to October.

11. Flock Pigeon Histrsophaps histrionica Gould

His'-tri-o-phaps — L., histrio , actor; Gk, phaps, pigeon: his -tri-d-nic-a —
L., histrionica , art of acting.

Distribution. — Northern Australia and the inland portion of New
South Wales and northern South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Harlequin Bronze-wing. Usually in flocks, fre-
quenting open country and plains. It is nomadic in habits, its movements
being regulated by seasonal conditions and food-supply. At one time this
Pigeon was observed in countless numbers, chiefly on the Mitchell grass
plains, but it is rarely seen now. Its flesh is excellent eating, numbers
being killed when visiting the drinking-pools at dusk. When flushed, the
flocks rise with a loud whirring noise, and after circling several times in
the air, alight again. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants, pro-
cured on the ground. The female differs from the male in being much
duller in coloration, having only faint indications of the markings which
adorn the male.

Nest. — On the bare ground, in the shelter of a tussock or low bush.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale creamy-white. Breeding-season : at almost
any period of the year if the seasonal conditions are suitable.

go

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

12. Brush Bronze- wing Pigeon Phaps elegans Temminck
Phaps — Gk, phaps , pigeon: el'-e-gans — L., elegans, handsome.

Distribution . — Southern Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting chiefly the scrub and heath-lands
of the coastal districts. It is usually observed on the ground, and when
flushed, rarely perches in a tree, but mostly alights on the ground, after
rapidly flying a short distance. Its call is a low mournful “Coo,” gener-
ally uttered towards evening. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous
plants; also native fruits and berries, mostly procured on the ground.

Nest. — An open, slightly cup-shaped structure, composed of sticks
and twigs. Placed either in a thick bush or in the branches of a fallen
tree, frequently on the ground in the shelter of a bush or grass-tree.

Eggs. — Generally two, pure whiite. Breeding-season : usually October
to January.

13. Bronze-wing Pigeon Phaps chalcoptera Latham
chal-cop r -ter-a — Gk, chalcos, bronze; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes . — Usually in pairs, frequenting open forest and scrub-lands.
It is generally observed on the ground, and when flushed, rises with a
loud whirring noise, flies rapidly for a short distance, and then alights on
a branch of a tree. Often it -allows one to approach quite near before
flying, relying on its protective colouring to enable it to escape detection.
Its call is a low mournful “Oom” repeated many times. Food : seeds of
grasses and herbaceous plants, and native fruits and berries, mostly pro-
cured on the ground.

Nest . — An open, slightly cup-shaped structure, composed of sticks
and twigs ; some nests are only frail structures, others are compactly built.
Usually placed in the fork of a horizontal branch of a tree or bush, at
heights up to 30 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, pure white. Breeding-season : generally October
to January.

14. Wonga Pigeon Lcucosarcia melanoleuca Latham
Leuc-o-sar-ci-a — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, sarx , sarcos, flesh: mel'-an-o -
leuc'-a — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, leucos , white.

Distribution. — Queensland, eastern New South Wales, and eastern
Victoria ; accidental to Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Wonga-wonga. Usually singly or in pairs, in-
habiting the big scrubs and brushes, where it is mostly observed on the
ground. When flushed, it rises with a loud clapping noise of the wings
and flies a short distance away before alighting. Generally it alights on a
horizontal limb, where it remains quite motionless with its back towards
the observer, relying on its coloration to escape detection. It often adopts
the same motionless attitude when one comes across it suddenly while it

GROUND-FEEDING PIGEONS AND DOVES

9i

is feeding on the ground. Owing to its large size and the excellence of its
flesh, it was killed in great numbers before being protected. Its call is a
loud, high-pitched, resonant “Coo-coo-coo” repeated many times, which
can be heard at least half a mile away. Food : seeds of grasses and herb-
aceous plants, natives fruits and berries, and insects, procured on the
ground.

N est . — -An open, almost flat or slightly cup-shaped structure, com-
posed of sticks and twigs. Usually placed on a horizontal branch of a
tree, at heights up to 30 feet from the ground.

Eggs - — Usually two, pure white. Breeding-season: normally October
to January.

92

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XIV

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

1. Lesser Lewin Honey-eater Meliphaga analoga Reichenbach
Mel-ipti-ag-a — Gk, nieli, honey; Gk, phagein , to eat: an-al'-og-a — Gk,
analogos, analogous.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Cardwell.
Notes . — Also called Yellow-spotted Honey-eater. In flocks, fre-
quenting the scrubs, occasionally open forest country and mangroves.
Food: native fruits, berries, insects, and nectar.

Nest. — A rather deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of bark and
dead leaves, woven together with wild cotton; lined with wild cotton
or silky down from plants. Suspended from a small fork of a tree or
shrub, usually in dense scrub, and placed at heights up to 12 feet from
the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, pearly-white, boldly spotted with deep chest-
nut and purplish-brown markings, confined chiefly to the larger end.
Breeding-season : October to March.

2. Purple-gaped Honey-eater Meliphaga cratitia Gould
era-tit* -i-a — L., craticius, wattled.

Distribution. — From northern Queensland to Victoria to south-
western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Wattle-cheeked Honey-eater. In flocks, inhabit-
ing alike dwarf scrub, scrub, or timbered river-flats. Food: insects and
nectar.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of thin strips of
bark ; lined with grass and other materials. Generally suspended from the
branch of a bush or small tree, and often within a few feet of the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, very pale pinkish-white, spotted and blotched
with pale to dark reddish-brown markings which become confluent, form-
ing a broken and irregular zone at the larger end. Breeding-season:
August to December.

3. White-streaked Honey-eater Trichodere cockerelli Gould

TricK-o-der’-e — Gk, trichos, hair (genitive of thrix ) ; Gk, dere, neck :
cockerelli — J. T. Cockerell, field naturalist and collector for John Gould
in Queensland and the Aru Islands.

Distribution.— Cape York Peninsula (northern Queensland).

Notes. — Also called Cockerell Honey-eater. In flocks, inhabiting tea-

Plate XIV

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

93

tree and small shrubs growing beneath eucalypts and other forest trees.
Food: insects and nectar.

Nest.— A rather frail, cup-shaped structure, composed of dried twigs
and vine tendrils, bound together with cobwebs. Placed in a small tree, at
heights varying between 18 inches and 3 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale salmon-pink, mottled with cloudy markings
of dull reddish-brown at the larger end, where a well-defined zone is
formed. Breeding-season : January to May.

4. Graceful Honey-eater Meliphaga gracilis Gould
gra-ci-lis — L., gracilis, graceful.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Cairns.

Notes. — Also called Little Yellow-spotted Honey-eater. In flocks,
frequenting forest country adjacent to scrubs. Food: insects, nectar,
native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of shreds of bark, fre-
quently covered with green moss; lined with wild cotton and a silky
fibre collected from plants. Suspended from a leafy branch of a low
tree, up to 14 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, salmon-pink, marked, almost entirely at the
larger end, with rich chestnut and purplish-grey spots. The most beautiful
of honey-eater eggs. Breeding-season : October to January.

5- Macleay Honey-eater Meliphaga macleayana Ramsay

made ay ana — Sir William Macleay (1820-1891), scientist, Sydney,
Australia.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cairns district).

Notes. — Also called Yellow-streaked Honey-eater. Not plentiful;
it frequents the brushes and scrubs; its call-note is very similar to that
of the Yellow-faced Honey-eater. Food : insects, native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, chiefly composed of fibre,
leaves, and other material ; lined with fibre and rootlets ; placed in a bush.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale fleshy-buff, well spotted and blotched, par-
ticularly at the larger end, with reddish-chestnut, intermingled with lilac
and dull slate markings. Breeding-season: October to December.

6. White-lined Honey-eater Meliphaga albilineata H. L. White
al-b\-lin-e-a! -ta — L., albus, white; L., lineatus, lined.

Distribution. — King River (Northern Territory).

Notes. — Also called White-striped Honey-eater. This species appears
to be confined exclusively to the rocky gorges of the sandstone hills,
inhabiting the deepest and narrowest ravines. Its call-note, which is
uttered occasionally, is a loud, clear whistle, “Tu-u-u-heer, tu-u-u-in.”
Food: insects, nectar, native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — Not described.

Eggs. — Not described.

H

94

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

7. Yellow-fronted Honey-eater Meliphaga plumula Gould
plu -mu-la — L., plumula , small feather.

Distribution. — Interior of Australia, ranging from north-western Aus-
tralia to eastern-central Queensland and South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Plumed Honey-eater. Fairly plentiful in forest
country, inhabiting the tall eucalypts and feeding among the blossoms and
leaves. Very similar in habits to the White-plumed Honey-eater. Food:
insects and nectar.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of dry grasses,
wool, and spiders’ egg-bags ; lined with wool and horse-hair ; suspended
from the branches of a bush or tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale salmon, marked at the larger end with
minute spots of very pale reddish-brown, which form an irregular zone.
Breeding-season: August to December or January.

8. Grey-headed Honey-eater Meliphaga keartlandi North
keartlandi — G. A. Heartland, Australian collector.

Distribution. — Central Australia, ranging to the coast in mid-western
and north-western Australia and northwards to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Notes. — Also called Heartland’s Honey-eater. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting stunted eucalypts and scrub. Food: insects and
nectar.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of dried grass-stems
matted together with silky plant down; lined with the latter material.
Frequently suspended from near the extremity of a small leafy branch of
a tree, at heights up to 15 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale fleshy-buff, marked, chiefly about the larger
end, with spots of dull reddish-brown. Breeding-season : July to Novem-
ber; May and June; or after rain.

9. Fuscous Honey-eater Meliphaga fusca Gould
fus-ca — L., fuscus, brown.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Queensland to South
Australia.

Notes. — Mostly in small flocks, frequenting alike open forest and
scrub-lands. Food: insects, procured among the blossoms and leaves
and occasionally on the wing; also nectar.

Nest. — A neat, cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of strips of
bark, bound and matted together with cobwebs and plant down ; lined with
hair, fine rootlets, grass, and often with wool or plant down. Usually
suspended from the thin branches of a tree or bush, at heights up to 20
feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, rich salmon, sometimes spotted, particularly
at the larger end, with reddish-brown and purplish-brown markings.
Breeding-season : July to December.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

95

10. Yellow Honey-eater Meliphaga flava Gould
fla-va — L., flavus, yellow.

Distribution . — Northern Territory, northern and eastern Queensland
to as far south as Mackay.

Notes. Plentiful in open forest and scrub-lands, frequently visiting
orchards and gardens. Its call-note is a merry “Whee-a, whee-a .” Food :
insects, procured among the flowers and leaves ; also nectar.

Nest. A comparatively shallow, cup-shaped structure, composed of
strips of bark and grasses. Generally placed in a bush or small tree,
sometimes within 5 feet of the ground.

Eggs. Usually two, white, with a very pale pinkish tinge, well spotted
and blotched with pale to dark reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings,
which become crowded at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to
November.

11. Yellow-faced Honey-eater Meliphaga chrysops Latham
chrys-ops — Gk, chrysos, golden ; Gk, ops , face.

Distribution. — Eastern and south-eastern Australia, from Cairns
(northern Queensland) to South Australia.

Notes^ Also called Chickup. Plentiful in open forest and scrub-
lands, feeding among the blossoms and leaves. It is a lively bird, and its
cheery note “Chickup” is a common sound in the bush. Food: insects,
nectar, and native fruits; it is troublesome to orchardists when fruit is
ripening.

Nest. — A neat, rather deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of bark,
cobwebs, and moss, matted together; lined with grass and rootlets.'
Usually suspended from the thin drooping branches of a bush or tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, pinkish-buff, spotted and speckled, particularly
at the larger end, with rich reddish-chestnut and purplish-grey markings.
Breeding-season : July to January.

12. Yellow-tinted Honey-eater Meliphaga flavescens Gould
flav-es-cens — L., flavus. vellow.

Distribution. — Northern tropical Australia.

Notes. — Common in open forest and scrub-lands, feeding among the
blossoms and leaves of the eucalyptus trees. Very similar in habits to the
White-plumed Honey-eater. Food: insects, nectar, and pollen.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and
grasses bound together with cobwebs, occasionally wool and hair; lined
with rootlets or wool. Generally suspended from the thin twigs of a
drooping branch of a small tree or bush.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale salmon-pink, minutely spotted with very
dark reddish-brown and pale purplish-grey markings. Breeding-season:
July to the end of November. The breeding-season is influenced by the
rains.

96

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

13. White-plumed Honey-eater Meliphaga penicillata Gould
pcn-i-cill-a-ta — L., penicillatus , pencilled.

Distribution. — Australia (except the Northern Territory and
northern Queensland).

Notes. — Also called Greenie, Linnet, Chickoowee, Ringeye, Ringneck,
and Australian Canary. Very plentiful in forest-lands generally, also
common in gardens. Exceptionally lively and noisy, it is constantly on
the move among the flowers and leaves, chattering and uttering its
powerful note “Chick-oo-wee.” Food: insects, nectar, and pollen.

Nest . — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of grasses bound
together with cobwebs; lined with wool or hair. Usually suspended from
the thin twigs of a drooping branch of a tree, mostly a eucalypt, at
various heights from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, pale pinkish-white, spotted, particularly at the
larger end, with small markings of reddish-brown, pinkish-brown, and
purplish-grey. Breeding-season: June to December; often as late as
April.

14. Yellow-plumed Honey-eater Meliphaga ornata Gould
or-na-ta — L., ornatus, adorned.

Distribution . — Mallee districts of Victoria, South Australia to south-
western Australia; occasionally visits New South Wales.

Notes. — Plentiful in open forest, mallee, and scrub-lands. Very sim-
ilar in habits to the White-plumed Honey-eater. Food: insects, nectar,
and pollen.

Nest. — A neat, cup-shaped structure, composed of grasses and strips
of bark, with no lining; some nests have thistledown and spiders’ cocoons
on the outside. Generally placed in a small bush or tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, salmon-pink, spotted, particularly at the larger
end, with rich or dark reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings. Breed-
ing-season : August to the end of November, sometimes extending to
January.

15. Painted Honey-eater Grantiella picta Gould

Grant-i-el'-la — W. R. Ogilvie Grant (1863-1924), Keeper of Bird
Department, British Museum : pic -ta — L., pictus, painted.

Distribution. — Interior of eastern Australia; South Australia, Vic-
toria, New South Wales, Queensland to McArthur River (Northern
Territory).

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting the outer foliage of trees,
chiefly eucalypts and oaks, and feeding mainly on mistletoe berries. This
species is a medium for distributing the mistletoe plant. Call-note, a
monotonous, see-saw whistle.

Nest. — A rather flimsy, cup-shaped structure, composed of fine root-
lets and the needle-shaped'leaves of the she-oak ( Casuarina ), matted and
bound together with cobwebs. Usually suspended from, and secured to,

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

97

a drooping branch of a casuarina or eucalypt; the nest is of very open
construction.

Eggs . — Usually two, pale salmon-pink, well spotted and speckled with
reddish-brown and lilac markings, which become massed at the larger
end. Breeding-season: October to February.

16. Regent Honey-eater Zanthomiza plirygia Shaw

Zanth-o-ml -za — Gk, zanthos = xanthos , yellow ; Gk, myzein , to suck :
phryg'-i-a — L., plirygius = Phrygian, regal.

Distribution. — From southern Queensland to Victoria and South
Australia.

Notes. — Also called Warty-faced Honey-eater, Turkey-bird, Mock
Regent, and Flying Coachman. A nomad, following the flowering of the
eucalypts and banksias, among the blossoms of which it feeds on insects
and nectar. It is a very noisy and pugnacious bird, fighting its own kind
as well as other species. It has a beautiful rich bell-like note.

Nest. — A rounded, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
stringy-bark ; lined with thistledown and other soft material. Usually
placed in the upright or horizontal forked branch of a tree, at various
heights from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, rich reddish-buff, becoming darker at the
larger end, spotted and speckled with reddish and purplish-brown mark-
ings, which are confined chiefly to the larger end. Breeding-season:
August to January.

17. Bell Miner Manorina melanophrys Latham

Man-o-rm-a — Gk, man os , thin; Gk, rhis (rhinos), nose: meV-an-o-phrys
— Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, phrys ( phrus ), brow.

Distribution. — From southern Queensland to Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Bell-bird. In flocks, frequenting the leaves and
branches of tall eucalypts as well as the undergrowth beneath the trees.
Large colonies of these birds establish themselves, usually on a timbered
ridge, and remain in the one locality for years. Named from its tinkling
note, which, when uttered by a number of birds, sounds like the tinkling of
a bell. Food: insects and their larvae, procured among the leaves and
branches or in crevices of bark.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of grass, thin strips of
bark, and twigs, well matted together with cobwebs; lined with rootlets,
grass, and plant down. Usually suspended from a forked twig of a small
tree or bush, at heights up to 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, rich flesh-colour, spotted, chiefly at the larger
end, with reddish-brown, purplish-brown, and purplish-grey markings.
Breeding-season: May or June to November, in some years as late as
January.

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THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

18. binging Honey-eater Meliphaga vires cens Vieillot
vir-es-cens — L., mrescens, greenish.

Distribution. — Australia generally (inland in New South Wales).

Notes. — Also called Dairy-bird. Usually in pairs, frequenting chiefly
low scrub-lands such as mulga, neelia, and mallee, and flowering scrub
trees. The name “Singing Honey-eater” is misleading, for its song is
limited; its usual call-note is “Preet, preet, preet;” another call is a
plaintive mew. Food: insects, seeds, native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — A well-made, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
bark and grasses; lined with fur, wool, or other soft materials. Usually
suspended from a fork of a low bush.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale pinkish-buff, with a few minute brownish
specks scattered about the larger end. Breeding-season: August to
December ; the breeding-season in inland districts is regulated by the rains.

19. Bridled Honey-eater Meliphaga frenata Ramsay
fren-a'-ta — L., frenatus, bridled.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cairns and Cardwell districts).

Notes. — In pairs or small flocks, chiefly frequenting the flowering
eucalypts of the mountain ranges. Food: insects, nectar, native fruits,
and berries.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of twigs from various
climbing plants and portions of soft fern-stems ; lined with fine fibre and
other materials. Usually suspended from a scrub tree.

Eggs. — Two, white, spotted and blotched, particularly at the larger
end, with reddish-brown, brownish-grey, and purplish-grey markings.
Breeding-season: probably October to January.

20. Helmeted Honey-eater Meliphaga cassidix Gould
cas/-i-dix — L., cassidix , helmeted.

Distribution. — Southern Victoria (Dandenong and Gippsland
Ranges).

Notes. — In small parties, inhabiting the scrubs during the spring
and summer and the big timber in the autumn and winter. An extremely
pugnacious bird, vigorously attacking other species which enter its terri-
tory; it has a variety of call-notes, which are uttered while feeding or
when flying from tree to tree. Food : chiefly insects, procured among the
leaves, in crevices of bark, or on the wing.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark, fine
grass, and leaves; lined with soft bark and other materials. Usually
suspended from the branch of a bush or small tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale flesh-coloured, with rounded spots of
reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings, particularly at the larger
end. Breeding-season : August to December.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

99

21. Yellow-tufted Honey-eater Meliphaga melanops Latham
mel'-an-ops — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, ops , face.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Whisky and Yellow Whisker. Usually in flocks,
frequenting all classes of country from the scrub-lands near the coast to
the flowering eucalypts of the inland plains. Its call-note, “Cheop, cheop,”
is uttered while feeding or when flying from tree to tree. Food : insects,
native fruits, and berries.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and
grasses, usually decorated with cobwebs and spiders’ egg-bags; lined with
hair, fur, or plant down. Generally suspended from the branch of a bush
or low shrub.

Eggs. — Two or three, pinkish-buff, freely spotted with dark reddish-
brown and purplish-grey markings. Breeding-season : June to December.

’OO

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XV

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

1- Yellow-breasted Sunbird Cyrtostomus frenatus S. Muller

— 1A. Female

Cyr-to-stom-us — Gk, cyrtos ( kurtos ), curved; Gk, stoma , mouth: fren-a-
tus — L., frenatus , bridled.

Distribution. — North-eastern Queensland to as far south as Yeppoon;
also occurs in the Celebes, New Guinea, Admiralty Islands, and Solomon
Islands.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, flitting about the flowering trees and shrubs
seeking insects and nectar, occasionally darting out to capture an insect on
the wing; it has the true humming-bird habit of hovering near flowers.
As it flits from flower to flower it utters a note like “Tsee-tsee,” while
its song is a pretty, tremulous warble.

Nest. — A long, oval-shaped structure with a tail-piece, the side en-
trance being protected by a hood. Composed of pieces of bark, bark-
fibre, dried grasses, rootlets, and dead leaves, held together with cobwebs ;
lined with fine grasses and plant down. Frequently suspended from a twig
of a small bush, often close to the ground and sometimes fastened to sus-
pended pieces of rope or other suitable material hanging about houses,
especially verandas.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale greenish-grey, speckled and mottled nearly
all over, particularly at the larger end, with umber markings. Breeding-
season : September to January or February.

2. Grey-backed Silver-eye Zosterops halmaturina A. G. Campbell
Zos-teZ-ops — Gk, zoster, belt; Gk, ops , face: halmaturina , so called from
L., halmaturus = kangaroo = Kangaroo Island.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and
Tasmania; also occurs in New Zealand and Chatham Island.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, according to the season of the
year. Habits similar to those of the better-known Grey-breasted Silver-
eye.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of fine grasses,
horse-hair, and other materials, well matted and fastened together with
cobwebs and spiders’ cocoons ; lined with fine grasses and sometimes with
horse-hair. Usually placed in a horizontal fork of a bush or small tree,
at heights up to 15 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Three to four, pale bluish-green. Breeding-season: Sep-
tember to January or February.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

IOI

3. Grey-breasted Silver-eye Zosterops lateralis Latham
lat-er-a-lis — L., lateralis , “sided” ( latus , side).

Distribution . — Northern and eastern Queensland, New South Wales,
and Lord Howe Island.

Notes. — Also called White-eye, Blight-bird, Grape-eater, and Sivve.
In pairs or flocks, according to the season of the year; common in all
classes of forest country and in gardens and orchards. For the greater
part of the year it is one of the most useful of birds, destroying all
manner of insect pests; but during the fruiting season it is recognized
among orchardists as a pest. It has a peevish call-note, while its song is
decidedly musical and long sustained. Food : insects and their larvae, native
fruits and berries, and cultivated soft fruits. In winter plumage the
sides of the body are deep tawny-buff.

Nest . — Like that of the Grey-backed Silver-eye.

Eggs. — Like those of the Grey-backed Silver-eye.

4. Western Silver-eye Zosterops australasice Vieillot
australasice — of Australasia.

Distribution. — From Carnarvon to Albany (Western Australia).

Notes. — Common in all classes of forest-lands and in gardens and
orchards. Similar in habits to the Grey-breasted Silver-eye.

Nest. — Like that of the Grey-breasted Silver-eye.

Eggs. — Like those of the Grey-breasted Silver-eye. Breeding-season :
August to December.

5. Pale Silver-eye Zosterops albiventris Reichenbach
al-bi-ven'-tris — L., albus, white; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Islands off the coast of northern Queensland and
Torres Strait islands.

Notes. — Also called Pale-bellied White-eye. In pairs or flocks, ac-
cording to the season of the year, frequenting the branches of flowering
trees or shrubs. Food: insects and their larvae, also native fruits and
berries.

Nest. — Very similar to that of the Grey-breasted Silver-eye.

Eggs. — Very similar to, though much paler than, those of the Grey-
breasted Silver-eye.

6. Scarlet Honey-eater Myzomela sanguinolenta Latham — 6A. Female

-o-meV -a — Gk, myzein, to suck ; Gk, meli, honey : san-gum-o-len-ta —
L., sanguinolentus , blood-coloured.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cape York to Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Sanguineous Honey-eater and Blood-bird. In
flocks, arriving in New South Wales during early spring; in the winter
months it is distinctly nomadic. It frequents the flowering eucalypts, mel-

102

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

aleucas, and banksias, seeking insects and nectar. The male utters one
of the liveliest songs of all our small birds, a succession of remarkably
sweet and clear notes, often heard during the midday heat of summer
when nearly all other species are silent.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of thin strips of
bark and rootlets, and sometimes horse-hair; usually scantily lined with
very fine grass and a few rootlets, and occasionally with horse-hair. Gen-
erally suspended from a thin, forked, horizontal twig of a drooping branch
of a tree. Favourite nesting-trees are turpentines and paper-barks.

Efffff* lw°, rarely three, white with a faint pinkish tinge, spotted
and speckled with dull chestnut, reddish-brown, and purplish-grey mark-
ings, forming a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season : October to De-
cember or January.

7. Red-headed Honey-eater Myzomela erythrocephala Gould— 7A.

Female

e-ryth'-ro-cepli-al-a — Gk, erythros, red; Gk, cephale, head.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia, from Derby (north-
western Australia) to Cape York (northern Queensland) ; also occurs in
New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, frequenting the mangroves and adjacent
scrub, seeking insects and nectar from the flowers. It is very active, flit-
ting from one cluster of flowers to another, uttering at the same time a
rather sharp and hard chirrup.

Nest . — Like that of the Scarlet Honey-eater, usually placed in the
tops of the highest mangroves.

Eggs. — Two, white, finely spotted with pale chestnut, reddish-brown,
and purplish-grey, the markings being chiefly confined to the larger end.
Breeding-season : October to January.

8- Banded Honey-eater Myzomela pectoralis Gould — 8A. Female
pec-tor-a-lis — L., pectoralis , breasted.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes. — Appears to be nomadic. Usually in flocks, frequenting the
flowering trees and shrubs. Food : insects and nectar.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark
and fine grasses, bound together with cobwebs ; lined with fine rootlets and
grasses. Usually suspended from a fork at the extremity of a small leafy
branch of a tree or bush.

Eggs. — Usually two, buffy-white, becoming darker towards the larger
end, where a band of very minute, clouded, brownish markings form an
indistinct zone. Breeding-season : October to January and on to May

(June).

9. Black Honey-eater Myzomela nigra Gould — 9A. Female
ni-gra — L., niger, black.

Distribution. — Over the inland portions of the Australian continent.

Notes. — Apparently nomadic. In flocks, frequenting the flowering

Plate XV

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

103

trees and shrubs. It shows a preference for country through which a
bush-fire has previously passed ; an active bird ; its flight is remarkably
quick, and performed with sudden zigzag movements; it has a feeble plain-
tive call-note. Food : chiefly insects, nectar, and the fruit of the mistletoe.

Nest . — A small, open, shallow structure, loosely constructed of small
dead twigs, pieces of dry grass, and other materials, matted together with
cobwebs; lined with fine grasses and vegetable down. Usually placed in
the fork of a small horizontal limb of a dead bush, up to 6 feet from the
ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, yellowish-buff, with an indistinct band of minute
spots or clouded markings of pale slate and umber forming a zone at the
larger end. Breeding-season : September to December.

10. Green-backed Honey-eater Glycichcera clandi Mathews

Glyc-i-cha’r'-a — Gk, glycichcera, glycerine; Gk, glycys, sweet; Gk, chav-
rein, to rejoice: claudi — Claudie River, Northern Queensland.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Claudie River district).

Notes. — Also called Buff-backed Honey-eater. The only field notes
state: ", . . fairly common in the scrub, but always high up in the leaves,
where only the trained eye of one accustomed to look for such things can
be expected to find them.”

Nest. — Not described.

Eggs. — Not described.

11. White-breasted Honey-eater Gliciphila fasciata Gould
Gli-ciph'-il-a — Gk, glycys , sweet; Gk, philos, fond of: fas-ci-a-ta — L.,
fasciatus, banded.

Distribution . — Tropical northern Australia, from Napier Broome Bay
(north-western Australia) to Inkerman (Queensland) and eastern Queens-
land to Mackay.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, frequenting the paper-bark ( Melaleuca )
swamps, from the blossoms of which it collects its food, consisting chiefly
of insects, nectar, and occasionally the buds of flowers. Its note is a
sharp, shrill, piping call, rapidly repeated.

Nest . — A bulky, dome-shaped structure, composed of strips of paper-
bark and fine rootlets woven together with cobwebs ; lined with soft
bark. Usually suspended from a pendent branch, overhanging water.

Eggs . — Three or four, white, spotted and blotched with light and
dark reddish-brown markings, particularly at the larger end. Breeding-
season: October to January (to May).

12. Rufous-throated Honey-eater Conopophila rufogularis Gould
Co-no-poph f -il-a — Gk, conops, gnat ; Gk, philos , fond of : rtt-fo-gu-ld'-ris —
L., rufus, red ; L., gularis, throated.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia (except Cape York Penin-
sula).

104

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Red-throated Honey-eater; usually in flocks, fre-
quenting the flowering trees and shrubs, and also the long grasses, seeking
insects and nectar. It often catches insects on the wing in the same man-
ner as the Flycatchers.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of soft pieces of
bark, grass, and spiders’ cocoons, woven together with cobwebs ; lined with
stiff stems of grass to keep it in shape. Usually suspended from a pen-
dent branch of a tree up to 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, white, spotted and speckled with dark reddish-
brown or chestnut and slate-grey markings, chiefly at the larger end.
Breeding-season: October to February or March.

13. Grey Honey-eater Lacustroica whitei North

Lac-us-troic'-a — L., lacus , lake; Gk, oicos, home: whitei — Alfred White,
son of H. L. White, Belltrees, Scone, New South Wales.

Distribution . — From Murchison (mid- western Australia) to the Mac-
donnell Range (central Australia).

Notes. — Also called Inconspicuous Honey-eater. Usually in pairs,
frequenting tracts of country where large mulga and other bushes grow.
Its call-notes have been described as a succession of five or six monotones,
high-pitched but musical, and uttered in a rapid, sibilant manner. Food:
insects, procured in the foliage.

Nest . — A frail structure of horse-hair, loosely woven and held to-
gether with spiders’ webs and cocoons, and placed near the extremity of a
slender branch about 7 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, white, moderately marked with small, rich, reddish-
brown spots mixed with some underlying markings of dull purplish-grey at
the larger end. Breeding-season: probably August to November.

14. Eastern Spinebill Acanthorhynchus tenuirostris Latham

Ac-anth-o-rhyncK-us — Gk, acantha, spine, thorn; Gk, rhynchos , beak:
ten-u-i-ros-tris — L., tenuis , slender; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution . — Eastern Australia, from Cairns (northern Queens-
land) to South Australia, Kangaroo Island, Tasmania, and the islands of
Bass Strait.

Notes.— Also called Spine-billed Honey-eater, Humming-bird, and
Cobbler’s Awl. Usually in pairs, frequenting alike scrub and heath-lands
and open forest country ; it is also a familiar bird in gardens and is ex-
ceptionally tame, flitting from flower to flower, probing each bloom with
its long, spine-like bill" Its call is a succession of shrill, musical notes;
often, when in flight, its wings make a peculiar clapping sound. Food :
insects and nectar.

Nest. A rather deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of bark,

grasses and moss, warmly lined with fine grass and feathers. Usually
suspended from a thin, horizontal, forked branch of a thick bush up to
20 feet or more from the ground.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

105

Eggs. Two or three, pale buff, marked, chiefly at the larger end,
with spots of chestnut and dull purplish-grey. Breeding-season : August
to December.

15. Western Spinebill Acanthorhynchus superciliosus Gould
su-per-cil-i-ds - us — L., superciliosus , browed.

Distribution. — South-western Australia, from Perth to the Stirling
Ranges.

Notes. — Also called White-browed Spinebill. Usually in pairs, fre-
quenting banksia and tea-tree country ; in habits it is similar to the East-
ern Spinebill. Food : insects and nectar.

N est. — Like that of the Eastern Spinebill, but slightly smaller.

Eggs - — Two usually, pale pinkish- white, marked, chiefly at the larger
end, with spots of chestnut and dull purplish-grey. Breeding-season : Aug-
ust to December.

16. White-naped Honey-eater Melithreptus lunatus Vieillot
Mel-i-threp'-tus — Gk, meli y honey; Gk, threptos, nourished: lu-na-tus — L.,
lunatus, moon-shaped = markings.

Distribution. — Queensland to Victoria to Western Australia, and the
Kent Group (Bass Strait).

Notes. — Also called Lunulated Honey-eater and Blackcap. Usually
in small flocks ; a common bird throughout the coastal districts, timbered
mountain ranges, and open forest country inland; it is also numerous in
gardens and is tame and fearless ; seen chiefly among the flowering euca-
lypt trees, seeking insects, pollen, and nectar. Call-note, a single piping
whistle, uttered frequently.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark
matted together with cobwebs and spiders’ egg-bags; lined with grass,
rootlets, soft bark, and occasionally fur. Suspended from a drooping
branch of a tree at a considerable height from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale buff, finely spotted and freckled, chiefly at
the larger end, with reddish-brown and pale purplish-grey markings.
Breeding-season: July to November.

17. White-throated Honey-eater Melithreptus albogularis Gould
al-bo-gu-ldr-is — L., albus, white; L., gularis, throated.

Distribution. — Northern Australia and north-eastern Queensland ;
also occurs in south-eastern New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called White-chinned Honey-eater. Similar in habits to
the White-naped Honey-eater.

Nest. — Closely resembles that of the White-naped Honey -eater.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale salmon-pink, spotted and speckled with red-
dish-brown markings, chiefly at the larger end. Breeding-season: July to
January.

io6

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

18. Black-chinned Honey-eater Melithreptus gularis Gould
gu-la-ris — L., gularis, throated.

Distribution. — Eastern and southern Australia.

Notes. — Similar in habits to the White-naped Honey-eater, though
more vigorous than that species.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and other
materials, bound together with cobwebs ; lined with hair and fur. Usually
suspended from the foliage of a drooping branch of a tree, frequently a
eucalypt, at a considerable height from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale salmon-pink, well spotted and speckled
with rich reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings, becoming confluent
towards the larger end. Breeding-season: July to December.

19. Golden-backed Honey-eater Melithreptus laetior Gould
lae-ti-or — L., laetior , more pleasing.

Distribution. — Mid-western, central, and northern Australia.

Notes. — Similar in habits to the Black-chinned Honey-eater.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, built in the drooping leafy twigs of a bauhinia
tree, about 10 feet from the ground (the only record).

Eggs . — Probably two, pale fleshy-buff, which gradually passes into a
warm reddish-buff on the larger end, where there are spots and blotches
of a slightly darker hue, intermingled with underlying markings of faint
purplish-buff. (Description of one egg taken in February.)

20. Strong-billed Honey-eater Melithreptus validirostris Gould
val-i-di-ros'-tris — L., validus , strong; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution . — Tasmania, King Island, and the Flinders Group only.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, frequenting the leaves and blossoms of
trees, chiefly eucalypts, in search of insects and nectar. It also has the
habit of moving up and down the trunks of trees searching in the crevices
of the bark for insect-life.

Nest . — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of bark, grasses, and
wool, lined with fine grasses. Generally suspended from the drooping
branches of a tree at a considerable height from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, pale pinkish-white, spotted and speckled with
dark reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings, chiefly confined to the
larger end. Breeding-season: July to December.

21. Brown-headed Honey-eater Melithreptus brevirostris Vigors and

Horsfield

brev-i-ros f -tris — L., brevis, short; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria to south-western
Australia, and King Island (Bass Strait).

A r 0 tes. — Usually in small flocks, frequenting, for the most part, the
outer foliage and blossoms of gum-trees, searching for insects and nec-
tar. It has a high-pitched call-note, repeated quickly.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

107

Nest . — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of bark, grasses,
horse-hair, and cow-hair, neatly built, and bound with cobweb and spiders'
egg-bags ; lined with hair or fur. Usually suspended from the drooping
branches of a eucalypt tree.

Eggs.- — Two or three, pale reddish-buff, spotted and finely speckled
with reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings, confined chiefly to the
larger end. Breeding-season : August to December.

22. Black-headed Honey-eater Melithreptus a finis Lesson
af-fln-is — L., a finis, allied.

Distribution. — Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, frequenting, chiefly, the outer foliage and
blossoms of gum-trees; it also visits gardens and orchards, doing con-
siderable damage to the smaller fruits. It has a short, sharp call-note,
repeated several times. Food: insects, nectar, and cultivated fruits.

Nest. — A rather deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
bark, wool, and cobwebs ; warmly lined with hair, fur, and feathers. Usu-
ally suspended from the small twigs at the end of a drooping branch of a
eucalypt tree ; frequently built high up from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale flesh-pink, minutely spotted and speckled
with reddish-brown and dull purplish-grey markings, confined chiefly to
the larger end. Breeding-season : October to the end of December.

io8

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XVI

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

1. Yellow Weebill Smicrornis flavescens Gould

Sml-crorri -is — Gk, smicros (micros), small; Gk, orris, bird: flav-es'-cens
— L., flavescens, becoming yellow ( flavus , yellow).

Distribution. — Central Australia, north-western Australia, North-
ern Territory, and northern Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-tinted Scrub-tit or Yellow-tinted Tree-tit.
The smallest bird inhabiting Australia. Usually keeps to the outer foliage
of saplings and taller trees ; its call-note is loud in proportion to its size; it
also has a pretty song. It is very active in quest of insects and their
larvae, keeping up a constant twitter while searching the foliage.

Nest. — A small, dome-shaped structure with a narrow entrance pro-
tected by a hood, near the top, composed of partly green stems of her-
baceous plants, intermingled with plant down ; lined with plant down and
a few feathers. Usually attached to thin leafy stems near the top of a
tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, crearny-bufT, sparingly freckled with dull pur-
plish-brown markings, with a faint zone of a violet shade on the larger
end, or an indistinct zone of creamy-brown markings. Breeding-season:
August to November or December, extending to April in the Gulf country.

2. Brown Weebill Smicrornis brevirostris Gould
brev-i-ros'-tris — L., brevis, short: L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria and Western Aus-
tralia.

Notes.— Also called Scrub-tit, Short-billed Scrub-tit, and Short-billed
Tree-tit. Usually in pairs or small parties, inhabiting the leafy branches of
both tall and low trees; clings to the smallest twigs and leaves of the
outermost branches, seeking insects and their larvae; has a low, simple
song ; the call-note, “Winnie-wieldt,” is frequently uttered.

A T e st. A small, rounded structure with a narrow spout-like entrance

near the top, composed of fine grasses held together with spiders’ cocoons
and webs ; lined with feathers and soft plant-stalks or down. Usually at-
tached to thin leafy twigs near the top of a gum sapling.

Eggs. Two or three, creamy-buff to salmon-pink, with a zone

of minute freckles of buffy-brown, purplish-brown, or slaty-brown at the
larger end. Breeding-season : July to December or January.

Plate XVI

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

iog

3. White-throated Warbler Gerygone olivacea Gould

Ge-ryg-on-e — Gk, gerygone , born of sound: ol-iv-a-ce-a — L., olivaceus,
olive-coloured.

Distribution . — Northern Australia and eastern Australia, to as far
south as southern Victoria.

Notes. — -Also called White-throated Fly-eater, White-throated Bush-
warbler, Native Canary, and Bush Canary. This species is a migrant, ar-
riving in New South Wales in early spring, departing during the autumn;
it frequents alike sapling scrubs, open forest, and mountain ranges. Usu-
ally in pairs, spending most of its time among the twigs and leaves search-
ing for insects and their larvae. Its spring song, a sweet cadence uttered
at frequent intervals throughout the day, is one of the finest of our bird
melodies.

Nest. — An egg-shaped structure, having a hooded entrance near the
top, and a tail-piece; composed of fine bark held together with spiders*
webs ; lined with feathers, fur, hair, or plant down, and often decorated on
the outside with spiders* egg-bags. Usually attached to a thin, leafy
branch near the top of a gum sapling, up to 40 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, sometimes four, pure white to dull reddish-
white, covered with fine dots or blotches of purplish-red ; some have well-
defined zones on the larger end. Breeding-season: September to Decem-
ber.

4, Brown Warbler Gerygone richmondi Mathews
richmondi — Richmond River, north-eastern New South Wales.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland, New South Wales, and Vic-
toria.

Notes. — Also called Brown Bush-warbler and Brown Fly-eater. Usu-
ally in pairs, inhabiting the brushes and dense scrubs; it is very active
when searching for food among the twigs and leaves, occasionally sally-
ing forth into the open to capture an insect. Call-note, a feeble, though
pleasing twitter, resembling “What is it? What is it?” repeated several
times.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a spout-like entrance near the
top, and a tail-piece ; composed of grasses and green mosses, held together
with spiders* webs ; lined with soft silky plant down, and sometimes with
fur or feathers ; beautifully decorated on the outside with lichen. Usually
attached to a thin leafy twig of a tree or a vine. Trees growing on the
sides of, or near creeks are favourite sites.

Eggs . — Two or three, white or reddish-white, finely freckled, spotted,
and blotched with different shades varying from dull to bright red and
faint purplish-red, usually forming a zone on the larger end. Breeding-
season : September to January.

5. Fairy Warbler Gerygone flavida Ramsay
flav-id-a — L., flavidus , yellowish.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from the Herbert River to near
Rockhampton. ;

XIO

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Yellow Warbler. Usually in pairs, inhabiting
brushes and scrubs bordering creeks; rather a shy bird, with a very
pleasing song somewhat like that of the Mangrove-warbler. Food : in-
sects and their larvae.

Nest . — A rounded structure with an entrance near the top protected
with a large hood, and having a small thin tail-piece; composed of thin
strips of bark held together with spiders’ webs and decorated with a few
spiders’ egg-bags. Usually attached to a thin horizontal branch of a tree
at a height of 5 feet or more from the ground. The nest of this species is
usually built near a wasp’s nest.

Eggs . — Two or three, pale pinkish- white, rather well spotted and
speckled, particularly at the larger end, with pale to dark reddish-brown
markings. Breeding-season: September to December.

6. Northern Warbler Gerygone mouki Mathews
mouki — said to be from an Australian aboriginal name.

Distribution. — Cairns district (northern Queensland).

Notes. — Also called Queensland Fly-eater. Inhabits the brushes and
dense scrubs; similar in habits to the Brown Warbler.

Nest. — A bulky, dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, sus-
pended from near the end of a thin branch, often overhanging water.

Eggs. — Three, pinkish- white, marked all over with small freckles
of reddish-brown, chiefly at the larger end. Breeding-season: November
(Mackay).

7. Buff -breasted Warbler Gerygone levigaster Gould
lev-i-gas-ter — L., lews, smooth (probably light-coloured) ; Gk, gaster,
belly.

Distribution . — Northern Australia, from Derby to northern Queens-
land.

Notes. — Inhabits open forest and scrub-lands, mainly keeping to the
leafy branches of the trees and thickets ; it is a very tame bird, with a weak
piping call-note, occasionally uttering a number of other notes in slow
succession. Food : insects and their larvse.

Nest. A dome-shaped structure with a hooded entrance, composed

of fine long grass-stalks and coarser materials ; lined with very fine grass
and a soft white material. Generally suspended from the thin branch of a
tree. Fastened on the outside with cobwebs are numerous round white
scale larvae, cocoons, pieces of lichen, and excreta of caterpillars.

Eggs. — Two, white, speckled over with small reddish-brown mark-
ings, more numerous on the larger end, where they generally form a zone.
Breeding-season: January to March.

8. Black-throated Warbler Gerygone palpebrosa Wallace— 8A. Female
pal-pe-bro-sa — L., palpebrosus, marked round the eye.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Cairns; also
occurs in the Aru Islands and New Guinea.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

in

A otes. Usually in pairs, frequenting the tropical scrub, hunting
about among the leaves and branches for insects and their lame. The
young birds have four peculiar head-plumes, which they have the power
ot erecting and quivering vigorously— probably a protective device.

, ^ es *'~ jA compact, pear-shaped structure with a hooded entrance near

the top, and a tail-piece ; composed of palm-fibre and bark, held together
with spiders webs and lichen ; lined with soft materials. The nest of this
species is suspended from the thin leafy branch of a tree, and built adjacent
to a wasp s nest.

Eggs . — Two or three, fleshy- white, speckled nearly all over with pur-
plish-brown or red markings. Breeding-season : January.

9. Western Warbler Gerygone fusca Gould
fus’-ca — L., fuscus, brown.

Distribution. — From Perth (Western Australia) to north-western
Australia, northern South Australia to southern Queensland and to Ruth-
erglen (north-eastern Victoria).

Notes. Usually in pairs, frequenting open forest and scrub-lands. In
New South Wales it is a migrant, arriving in the spring and departing
again early in h ebruary. It is an active bird, constantly searching among
the leaves and branches for insect-life, or catching insects on the wing; it
has a sweet but feeble song, and is said to be a ventriloquist.

Nest.— A pear-shaped structure with a short tail-piece and an en-
trance near the top, slightly sheltered by a small hood; composed of
very fine strips of bark, dried grasses, and spiders’ cocoons matted to-
gether ; lined with dried grass and a few feathers. The nest of this species
is suspended from the thin leafy branch of a tree, and often placed near
the nest of a small yellow wasp.

Eggs. Three, pinkish-white, with reddish-brown markings which
predominate at the larger end. Breeding-season: October to January.

10. Mistletoe-bird Dicaeum hirundinaceum Shaw — 10A. Female

Dx-cae'-um — Gk, dicairon, an Indian bird: hir-un-din-a-ce-um L.,

hirundinaceus, like a swallow.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Flowerpecker and Dicaeum Swallow. Usually in
pairs, frequenting the topmost branches of trees, or among the blossoms
of the different species of mistletoe ( Loranthus ). This species is a me-
dium for distributing these harmful parasitic plants. It has a pretty warb-
ling song. Food : insects and berries, chiefly those of the mistletoe.

Nest. — A neat, pear-shaped structure with a slit-like entrance in the
side ; composed of spiders’ egg-bags, downy plant seeds, and the sawdust-
like excreta of various wood-boring insects, matted together with cob-
webs. Usually suspended from a thin branch of a leafy tree up to 30 feet
from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, pure white. Breeding-season: September to
December or January.

1 12

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

11. Little Thornhill Acanthiza nana Vigors and Horsfield

Ac-anth-iz-a — Gk, accintheon, thorny brake; Gk, zao, I live: na-na — L.,
nanus , dwarf.

Distribution. — Eastern and southern Australia from the Dawson
River (Queensland) to South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Little Tit. Usually in small parties, frequenting
the outer branches of trees ; it is very active, searching among the leaves
and twigs for insects and their larvae; call-note, a harsh “Tiz-tiz."

Nest. — A domed structure with an entrance near the top; composed
of bark and grasses, matted together with cobwebs and often ornamented
with green mosses. Usually placed among the outer branches of a leafy
tree.

Eggs. — Two to four, whitish, freckled with reddish-brown and laven-
der markings, especially on the larger end. Breeding-season: August to
December.

12. Striated Thornhill Acanthiza lineata Gould
lui-e-a-ta — L., lineatus, lined.

Distribution . — Eastern and southern Australia, from Charleville
(southern Queensland) to South Australia and Kangaroo Island.

Notes. — Also called Striated Tit. Usually in small parties, frequent-
ing alike the topmost foliage of the tallest trees and also low shrubs. It is
very active, searching diligently for small insects and their larvae, keep-
ing up a constant chattering, and occasionally uttering a pretty song.

Nest . — A pear-shaped structure with a hooded entrance; composed
of bark and grass matted together with cobwebs ; lined with feathers or
other soft materials.

Eggs. — Three, pinkish-white or creamy-white, freckled all over with
pinkish or reddish-brown markings, forming a zone at the larger end.
Breeding-season : September to December.

13. Western Thornhill Acanthiza inornata Gould
in-orn-a-ta — L., inornatus , unadorned.

Distribution. — Western Australia, from the Stirling Ranges to the
Strelley River.

Notes. — Also called Plain-coloured Tit. Usually in small parties, fre-
quenting the leaves and branches of trees or shrubs. It has a short, feeble
song. Food : insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A rounded structure with a side entrance near the top, com-
posed of dried grasses and other materials, held together with spiders'
webs ; lined with feathers or plant down. Usually placed among the leafy
twigs of trees at various heights from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, flesh-coloured, freckled all over with reddish-
brown markings, with a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season : Septem-
ber to December.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

ii3

14. Tasmanian Thornbill Acanthiza ewingi Gould

ewingtr— R ev . T. J. Ewing, Tasmanian naturalist and friend of John
Gould. J

Distribution. — Tasmania and King Island (Bass Strait).

Notes. Also called Ewing’s Thornbill. Usually in small parties.
Similar in habits to the Brown Thornbill.

Nest. A neat, dome-shaped structure with a rounded entrance at the
side, composed of thin strips of bark-fibre and thickly coated with green
moss; lined with freshly budded fern-fronds and feathers. Usually placed
in a low shrub.

Eggs.— Three, white, freckled with different shades of purplish-red,
with a distinct zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: August to De-
cember.

15. Whitlock Thornbill Acanthiza whitlocki North

whitlocki — F. Lawson Whitlock, collector for H. L. White in Western
and central Australia.

Distribution. — Mid-western, south-western, and east-western Aus-
tralia (Nullarbor Plain).

Notes.— Also called Lake Way Tit and White-scaled Tit. Usually in
small parties ; similar in habits to the Brown Thornbill.

Nest. — Like that of the Brown Thornbill; placed in a low bush about
2 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Three, pinkish-white, marked with small spots and scratches
of reddish-brown, passing into blotches on the larger end, where they form
a well-defined zone. Breeding-season: July (Zanthus, Nullarbor Plain).

16. Mountain Thornbill Acanthiza katherina De Vis
katherina — Katherine River (Queensland).

Distribution . — Northern Queensland (Bellenden Ker Range).

Notes. — Nothing is known of its habits and economy. The type of the
species was collected in the Bellenden Ker Range.

Nest . — Not described.

Eggs . — Not described.

17. Robust Thornbill Acanthiza robustirostris Milligan
rd-bus-ti-ros-tris — L., robustus, strong; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution. — Western Australia inland to central Australia.

Notes . — Also called Thick-billed Tit. Usually in small parties, fre-
quenting the mulga scrubs; it has a low-pitched, twittering call, and in
addition, certain loud and clear joyous notes. Food: insects and their
larvae.

Nest. — A well-built, oval structure with an entrance near the top,
composed of fine green grasses bound together with spiders’ webs and

1 14

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

cocoons, and lined with these materials. Placed among the slender
branches of a small bush.

Eggs. — Three, white, with a very faint tinge of pink, finely speckled
with minute markings of reddish-brown, forming a well-defined zone at
the larger end. Breeding-season: July to October.

18. Brown Thornhill Acanthiza pusilla Shaw
pu-sil'-la — L., pusillus, very small.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria, South Australia,
and the interior; and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Brown Tit and Scrub Thornhill. Usually in
small parties, frequenting thickets and low scrub; it also visits gardens
and orchards, where it does much useful work in destroying insects and
their larvae.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance near the top, com-
posed of bark, coarse grasses, and spiders' webs matted together; lined
with feathers and other soft materials. Usually placed near the ground
and attached to bracken fern or a low bush.

Eggs . — Three, white, freckled with dull red, reddish-brown, or pur-
plish-red markings, forming a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season:
August to December.

19. Broad-tailed Thornbill Acanthiza apicalis Gould
a-pic-a-lis — L., apicalis , tipped.

Distribution. — Western Australia (Swan River).

Notes. — Similar in habits and economy to the Brown Thornbill.

Nest. — An oval-shaped structure with an entrance at the side, com-
posed of soft dried grasses, matted together with spiders’ webs and egg-
bags ; lined with feathers. Attached to the stems of a low bush, close to
the ground.

Eggs. — Three, white, with minute freckles and dots varying from
dull red to pinkish and faint chestnut-red, the markings predominating on
the larger end, often forming an irregular-shaped zone. Breeding-season:
July to October, probably to December.

20. Red-tailed Thornbill Acanthiza hamiltoni Mathews
hamiltoni — Hamilton, brother of Gregory M. Mathews.

Distribution. — North-western Victoria, South Australia, and central
Australia.

Notes. — Also called Rufous-rumped Thornbill. Similar in habits and
economy to the Brown Thornbill and other scrub-frequenting species of
the genus.

Nest. — An oval-shaped structure with an entrance near the top, com-
posed of bark, wool, dried grasses, and spiders’ cocoons matted together ;

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

115

lined with feathers and other soft materials. Usually placed in the droop-
ing leaves of a eucalypt or acacia.

Eggs.- — Three, fleshy-white, thickly freckled, chiefly on the larger end,
with reddish-chestnut or reddish-brown markings, forming a well-defined
zone. Breeding-season : July to October, probably to December.

21. Inland Thornhill Acanthiza albiventris North
al-bi-veri-tris — L., albus, white ; L., venter, belly.

Distribution. — Interior of New South Wales and Queensland.

Notes . — Also called White-vented Thornhill. Similar in habits and
economy to the Brown Thornhill.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Red-tailed Thornhill.

Eggs. — Three, white, with a few pinkish-red dots and spots on the
larger end, which form a zone. Breeding-season: July to October, pro-
bably to December.

22. Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus Shaw — 22A. Female

Pard-al-o-tus — Gk, pardalotus , spotted : punc-ta-tus — L., punctatus,

spotted.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia (from Cairns, northern Queens-
land, to New South Wales), and Victoria, through South Australia to
Western Australia; also in Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Diamond-bird, Ground Dyke, Diamond Dyke,
and Ground Diamond. Usually in pairs, frequenting the outer foliage and
twigs of the eucalypts. It is rather sedate and slow in moving among the
leaves in search of insects and their larvae. It has a monotonous call-note,
like “Slee-p ba-bee ,, ; the “slee-p” high-pitched, the “ba-bee” much lower.
The call is ventriloquial.

Nest. — A rounded, domed structure, composed of bark, and placed
in a hollowed-out chamber at the end of a tunnel in the ground ; tunnels
are generally made in the side of a bank or in a stump-hole, and are about
18 inches to 2 feet in length.

Eggs. — Usually four, pure white. Breeding-season: August to De-
cember.

23. Yellow-tailed Pardalote Pardalotus xanthopygus McCoy
xan-tho-pyg-us — Gk, zanthos = xanthos, yellow; Gk, pyge, rump, tail.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and
south-western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Golden-rumped Diamond-bird. Similar in habits
and economy to the Spotted Pardalote. The female is duller than the
male, and lacks the yellow throat.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Spotted Pardalote.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the Spotted Pardalote

n6

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

24. Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus Gmelin
stri-a-tus — L., striatus , striped.

Distribution. — Southern Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Striated Diamond-bird. Usually in pairs; similar
in habits and economy to the Spotted Pardalote. Its call-note resembles
“Pick-it-up’” or “Wit-e-chu.”

Nest. — A domed structure, composed of bark, grass, and sometimes
feathers, placed in a small hollow or hole in a tree. Nests are situated
at heights up to 50 feet or more from the ground. This species has also
been known to tunnel into the bank of a creek, where it constructs a nest
similar to that of the Spotted Pardalote.

Eq 9 s - — Usually four, pure white. Breeding-season: August to De-
cember.

25. Red-tipped Pardalote Pardalotus ornatus Temminck
or-na-tus — L., ornatus , adorned.

Distribution. — Eastern-central Queensland, New South Wales, Vic-
toria, South Australia, central Australia, and western and north-western
Australia.

Notes. — Similar in habits and economy to the Striated Pardalote.

Nest. — Similar in construction to that of the Striated Pardalote;
placed in holes in trees, in banks, in crevices between stones of houses, and
in thatched roofs.

Eggs. — Usually four, pure white. Breeding-season : August to De-
cember.

26. Forty-spotted Pardalote Pardalotus quadragintus Gould
quad-rd-gin-tus — L., quadraginta, forty.

Distribution . — Tasmania and King Island (Bass Strait).

Notes. — Usually in pairs, keeping among the topmost foliage of the
trees in search of food, rarely descending to the ground. It is more retir-
ing in habits than the other Pardalotes. Food : insects and their larvae, pro-
cured among the foliage and from under the bark.

Nest . — Composed of grass, bark, and other materials ; placed in a hole
or small hollow of a tree at heights up to 40 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, pure white. Breeding-season: September to
January.

27. Red-browed Pardalote Pardalotus rubricatus Gould
ru-bri-ca-tus — L., rubricatus , reddened.

Distribution. — Queensland, Northern Territory, north-western Aus-
tralia (as far south as the Gascoyne River), interior of New South
Wales and South Australia, and central Australia.

BIRDS OF THE BLOSSOMS AND OUTER FOLIAGE

n 7

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting the outer foliage of trees; its
call-note is unlike that of the other Pardalotes, being a loud, mellow
whistle repeated five times in succession. Food : insects and their larvae.

N est. — Cup-shaped, composed entirely of fine strips of bark, and
placed at the end of a tunnel in a bank.

Eggs. — Three or four, pure white. Breeding-season: July to Sep-
tember or October.

28. Black-headed Pardalote Pardalotus melanocephalus Gould
meV-an-o-cepK-al-us — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, cephale, head.

Distribution. — Mid-western Australia, across northern Australia to
northern Queensland, and southwards to New South Wales.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, keeping to the topmost leafy twigs of trees,
where it secures its food, which consists of insects and their larvae.

Nest. — Like that of the Spotted Pardalote, and placed in similar situ-
ations.

Eggs. — Usually four, pure white. Breeding-season: June to Novem-
ber or December; in New South Wales the breeding-season is August to
December.

n8

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XVII

BIRDS OF THE TREE-TRUNKS AND BRANCHES

1. Orange- winged Sittella Neositta chrysoptera Latham

Ne-o-sitt'-a — Gk, neos, new; Gk, sitte, woodpecker: chrys-op’-ter-a — Gk,
chrysos, golden ; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.
Notes . — Also called Tree-runner, Nuthatch, Barkpecker, and Wood-
pecker. Usually in small flocks, frequenting both open forests and scrubs.
It is very active, running over the branches and down the trunks of trees
with the greatest ease, seeking insect-life in the crevices of the bark. While
feeding, and when in flight from tree to tree, it utters soft twittering notes.
Its flight is undulatory, and it is then that the orange markings on the
wings are seen. The head of the female is black.

Nest . — A well-built, cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of spiders’
webs and cocoons, neatly interwoven, and decorated on the outside with
small pieces of bark fastened on like shingles, forming a perfect imitation
of the bark of the tree in which it is built. Placed in an upright forked
limb of a dead tree at heights up to 50 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, very variable ; a typical clutch is greyish-white,
spotted and blotched all over, particularly at the larger end, with dark
olive and slate markings. Breeding-season: August to January.

2. Black-capped Sittella Neositta pileata Gould — 2 A. Female
pi-le-a-ta — L., pileatus , capped.

Distribution. — Interior of Victoria, South Australia, New South
Wales, and south and mid-western Australia.

Notes. — Has the same vernacular names as the Orange-winged Sit-
tella. Usually in small flocks, frequenting alike heavily timbered country,
open forests, and scrubs. Habits similar to the Orange-winged Sittella.
Nest. — Similar to that of the Orange-winged Sittella.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the Orange-winged Sittella.

3. Striated Sittella Neositta striata Gould — 3A. Female
stri-a-ta — L., striatus, striped.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York southwards
to Inkerman.

Notes. — Usually in small flocks in forest country. Probably the most
active of the Sittellas.

Plate XVII

BIRDS OF THE TREE-TRUNKS AND BRANCHES

birds of the tree-trunks and branches

1 19

N est. — -A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed almost entirely of
elongated pieces of bark and cobwebs; lined with the same material, and
placed in an upright forked limb; the outside shingles of bark resemble
the branch on which the nest is placed.

Eggs. — Three, white, and lightly marked towards the smaller end
with large, dark, slate-coloured markings; the markings at the larger end
are confluent, but do not form a zone. Breeding-season : August to De-
cember.

4. White-headed Sittella Neositta leucocephala Gould
leuc-o-cepK-al-a — Gk, leucos, white ; Gk, cephale , head.

Distribution. — Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Notes. — Similar in habits to the other Sittellas.

Nest. — Very similar to that of the Orange-winged Sittella and placed
in similar situations.

Eggs. — Usually three, pale greyish-white, spotted and blotched, par-
ticularly at the larger end, with sepia and slate markings. Breeding-sea-
son: September to December.

5. Pied Sittella Neositta albata Ramsay
al-ba-ta — L., albatus, whitened.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland.

Notes . — Usually in open forest country; similar in habits to the
other Sittellas.

Nest. — Similar to that of the White-headed Sittella.

Eggs. — Very similar to those of the White-headed Sittella. Breeding-
season: September to December.

6. White-winged Sittella Neositta leucoptera Gould
leuc-op’-ter-a — Gk, leucos , white; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes . — By no means plentiful; inhabits forest country, usually keep-
ing to the tops of tall trees.

Nest . — Similar to those of the other Sittellas.

Eggs. — Three, similar in colour and markings but much smaller than
those of the Orange-winged Sittella. Breeding-season: August to Decem-
ber (June, July).

7. Brown Tree-creeper Climacteris picumnus Temminck
Cli-mac-ter-is — Gk, climacter, staircase : pt-cum-nus — L., picumnus,
woodpecker.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria, South Australia, and
central Australia.

Notes. — Also called Woodpecker. Usually in pairs, showing a pre-
ference for open forests and partly cleared lands, where it is met with

120

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

feeding upon the ground, or hopping up the trunks of trees, stumps, or
fence posts. When disturbed, it flies with a skimming motion of the
wings to the nearest tree, generally settling near the base, and ascending
the trunk spirally. It has a sharp piercing call, frequently uttered, especi-
ally when alarmed. It is friendly and will visit homesteads and eat any
scraps of food left about.

Nest. — Composed of fur, hair, and fine feathers. Placed in a hollow
limb or the trunk of a tree, often in a hole in a fence post or stump, and
situated at heights up to 30 feet or more from the ground.

Eg 9 s - — Two or three, pinkish-white, almost covered with small spots
and specks of pinkish-red and purplish markings. Breeding-season: July
to October.

8. Rufous Tree-creeper Climacteris rufa Gould
ru -fa — L., rufus, red.

Distribution. — South-western Australia and the western parts of
South Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting open forest and scrub-lands.
Similar in habits to the Brown Tree-creeper, often seeking its food, in-
sects of various kinds, on the ground. Its note is a single piercing call,
uttered more rapidly and loudly when disturbed.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Brown Tree-creeper and placed in the
same situations.

Eggs. — Two or three, pinkish-buff, well spotted, blotched, and
speckled all over with markings of reddish-brown and dull purple. Breed-
ing-season : September to December.

9. Black Tree-creeper Climacteris melanota Gould — 9A. Female
meV-an-o-ta — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, noton, back.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York Peninsula).

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting open forest country. Call-note, a
loud “Spink, spink,” frequently uttered. Similar in habits to the Brown
Tree-creeper.

Nest. — Built in a hollow limb of a tree. The only record to date.

Eggs. — Two, pinkish-white, well marked all over, and particularly
at the larger end, with specks and blotches of pale to rich reddish-brown
and purplish markings, the latter being chiefly confined to the larger end.
Breeding-season : October and November.

10. White- throated Tree-creeper Climacteris leucophcea Latham
leuc-o-phce'-a — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, phaios, grey.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria,
and South Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, showing a preference for big scrubs and
brushes. Strictly arboreal in habits, ascending the trunks rapidly in search

BIRDS OF THE TREE-TRUNKS AND BRANCHES

121

of insects. It has a shrill piping cry, “Pink, pink,” high pitched and
quickly uttered six to eight or more times. Female has an orange-red spot
below the cheek.

Nest.- — Placed within a hollow limb or trunk of a tree, the hollow
being lined with pieces of bark, grass, and fur; placed at heights up to
40 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, white, sparingly marked with spots of reddish-
brown and purplish-brown, which are more numerous near the larger end.
Breeding-season : August to December.

11. Little Tree-creeper Climacteris minor Ramsay
mi -nor — L., minor , smaller.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cairns district).

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting the big scrubs. Similar in
habits to the White-throated Tree-creeper. Female has an orange-red spot
below the cheek.

Nest . — Placed in a hollow limb or trunk of a small tree, and com-
posed of green moss and soft bark.

Eggs. — Two, pale creamy-white, sparingly marked all over with very
small spots and specks of reddish-brown and pale lilac. Breeding-season:
October.

12. Red-browed Tree-creeper Climacteris erythrops Gould — 12A.

Female

e-rytli-rops — Gk, erythros, red; Gk, ops , face.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, inhabiting big scrubs and brushes. Simi-
lar in habits to the White-throated Tree-creeper; besides its high-pitched,
staccato notes, it has other calls which are softer and tremulous.

Nest. — Composed of a compact mass of bark, well lined with fur;
placed in a hollow limb or trunk of a tree at heights up to 40 feet from the
ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, pinkish-white, well marked all over with small
spots and specks of reddish-brown and dull purple. Breeding-season:
August to January.

13. White-browed Tree-creeper Climacteris affinis Blyth
af-fin-is — L., affinis, allied.

Distribution. — Interior of southern Queensland, New South Wales,
South Australia, Western Australia, and central Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting scrub-lands of the interior;
secures its food, insects of various kinds, by spirally ascending tree-
trunks or searching fallen timber. The call-notes resemble those of the
White-throated Tree-creeper, both in the loud staccato call and in the
sweet, low, tremulous notes. The female has rusty-red markings on its
fore-neck.

122

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest. Composed of fur, hair, strips of soft bark, dried grasses, and
vegetable down ; placed in a hollow limb or the trunk of a tree at heights
up to 30 feet from the ground.

• u ^ wo _ or three, pinkish-white, spotted and speckled with pink-

ish-red and purplish-red markings. Breeding-season : September to De-
cember.

14. Black-tailed Tree-creeper Climacteris melanura Gould— 14A.
Female

mel-an-ur-a — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail.

Distribution. — North-western Australia (from Derby) to western
Queensland.

Notes. — Usually in pairs; found in timbered river-flats clothed in
coolabah, bloodwood, wattle, bauhinia, and silver box. Habits similar to
the other Tree-creepers.

Nest. Composed of soft bark, fur, and dried grasses, and placed
in a hollow spout or trunk of a tree.

Eggs*— Two, pinkish-white, spotted, blotched, and speckled with num-
erous and well-distributed markings of pinkish-red and purple, with a well-
defined cap at the larger end. Breeding-season : September to January.

15. Allied Tree-creeper Climacteris wellsi Grant
wellsi — T. Wells, ornithologist, British Museum, London.

Distribution. — Mid- western Australia.

Notes. — Native name Chinin-chinin. Similar in habits to the other
Tree-creepers. The female has a rusty-red marking on its fore-neck.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Black-tailed Tree-creeper.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the Black-tailed Tree-creeper.

Plate XV I II

SOME BIRDS OF THE SCRUB-LANDS

SOME BIRDS OF THE SCRUB-LANDS

123

PLATE XV 111

SOME BIRDS OF THE SCRUB-LANDS

1. Red-throated Whistler Pachycephala rufogularis Gould

, — 1 A. Female

Pach'-y-ceph'-al-a — Gk, pachys, thick; Gk, cephale, head: ru-fo-gu-la -
ris — L., rufus, red ; L., gula, throat.

Distribution . — North-western Victoria and South Australia (mallee).

Notes . — Also called Red-throated Thickhead and Red-lored Thick-
head. Usually in pairs, inhabiting the mallee scrubs. It is considered a
rare species and little has been recorded concerning its habits. Food:
insects.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and
grasses bound together with cobwebs ; lined with soft materials. Generally
placed in the branches of a low bush.

Eggs . — Two or three, stone or buff-coloured, spotted, particularly at
the larger end, where a zone is formed, with dark brown or umber and
lavender. Breeding-season: September to December.

2. Gilbert Whistler Pachycephala inornata Gould
L., inornatus, unadorned.

north-western Victoria to south-western

tn-orn-

Distribution . — F rom
Australia.

Notes . — Also called Black-lored Thickhead and Gilbert Thickhead.
Usually in pairs, inhabiting the scrub-lands, chiefly mallee and pine scrubs.
It has a variety of clear, rich call-notes, some of which are ventriloquial.
Food : insects. The female is similar to the female Red-throated Whistler.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, resembling the nest of the Red-
throated Whistler. Usually placed in a low bush, on a stump, or on top
of an old Babbler’s nest.

Eggs . — Very similar to those of the Red-throated Whistler. Breeding-
season: September to November.

3. Crested Bell-bird Oreoica gutturalis Vigors and Horsfield
Or-e-dic-a — Gk, oros , ore os , mountain; Gk, oicos, house: gut-tur-a-Hs —
L., gutturalis, throated.

Distribution . — Throughout the interior of Australia.

Notes . — Usually singly or in pairs, inhabiting the dry scrub-lands. It
spends much of its time on the ground searching for insects. Hops about

124

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

with crest erect. It is a wonderful ventriloquist, and its call of “Reep-
reep-reephok,” with the final bell-like notes, is difficult at times to locate.
Food : insects and seeds.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark,
twigs, and leaves; lined with dried grasses and rootlets. Frequently
caterpillars are found in the nest. Usually placed among a mass of
upright suckers near the ground, in a thick fork of a tree, or in a hollow
stump.

Eggs . — Two to four, pale bluish-white, spotted and blotched, chiefly
at the larger end, with sepia and black. Breeding-season: July to January,
and in the northern part of its range as late as March.

4. Wedgebill Sphenostoma cristatum Gould

Spheri-o-stom'-a — Gk, sphen, wedge; Gk, stoma , mouth: cris-ta-tum —
L., cristatus , crested.

Distribution. — The interior of Australia generally

Notes. — Usually in pairs or family parties, frequenting low scrubs
growing in gullies and watercourses. It is a shy and wary species and
has a very pleasing song Some of its notes are said to be ventriloquial.
Food : insects and seeds.

Nest. — An open, shallow, cup-shaped structure, composed of twigs
and grass ; lined with grass, fur, bark-fibre, or fine rootlets. Usually
placed in a low bush within a few feet of the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, bluish-green, marked with blackish spots here
and there. Breeding-season : August or September to January.

5. Grey-crowned Babbler Pomatostomus temporalis Vigors and Hors-

field

Po-mat-o-storn-us — Gk, poma ( pomatos ), lid; Gk, stoma , mouth: tem-
p or -a -Us — L., temporalis , belonging to the temple.

Distribution. — Eastern and south-eastern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Apostle-bird, Chatterer, Cackler, Barker, Pine-
bird, Cat-bird, Dog-bird, Codlin-moth-eater, Hopper, Jumper, Yahoo,
Happy Family, Happy Jack, Twelve Apostles, and Parson-bird. Usually
in small flocks of from eight to twelve birds, frequenting the scrub and
open forest country. It is exceedingly noisy and active, and spends a
considerable part of its time on the ground, hopping about in search of
insects. Owing to its quaint chattering or cackling notes and playful
habits, it is a general favourite wherever it is found. Many of its calls
are difficult to describe, but the loud “Ya-hoo, Ya-hoo” is a very familiar
call. Food: insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A large, dome-shaped structure, with a narrow spout-like
entrance, outwardly formed oi sticks and twigs loosely interwoven; lined
with bark-fibre, grasses, cow-dung, or wool. Usually built near the
extremity of a forked horizontal branch of a tree at heights up to 20 feet
or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Three to six, varying from pale brown to purplish-brown and
buff, covered all over with hair-like markings of dark brown. Breeding-
season : August to December.

PINK SCRUB

MALLEE SCRUB Photos. L. G. Chandler

SOME BIRDS OF THE SCRUB-LANDS

125

6. Red-breasted Babbler Pomatostomus rubecnlus Gould
ru-be -cu-lus — L., rube cuius , reddish.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, north-
western Queensland, and central Australia.

Notes . — Also called Rufous-breasted Chatterer and Cat-bird. Usually
in small flocks of from six to twelve birds, frequenting scrub and open
forest-lands. It is similar in habits and economy to the Grey-crowned
Babbler.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure similar to that of the Grey-crowned
Babbler.

Eggs. — Usually three, resembling those of the Grey-crowned Babbler
but slightly smaller. Breeding-season: August to January or February;
eggs have also been recorded in June.

7. White-browed Babbler Pomatostomus superciliosus Vigors and

Horsfield

su-per-cil-i-ds -us — L., superciliosus, browed.

Distribution. — From northern New South Wales to Victoria, South
Australia, and Western Australia.

Notes. — Also called White-eyebrowed Chatterer, Go -away, Stick-
bird, and Kangaroo-bird. Usually in small flocks, frequenting scrub and
open forest-lands. It is a sociable species and very plentiful. In habits
and economy it resembles the Grey-crowned Babbler.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed of
sticks or twigs; lined with grass, wool, or other soft materials. Usually
placed in horizontal branches of trees and often in low bushes.

Eggs. — Three to five, various shades of brown, covered all over with
hair-like markings of dark brown. Breeding-season: May to December.

8. Chestnut-crowned Babbler Pomatostomus ruficeps Hartlaub
ru-fi-ceps — L., rufus, red; ceps, from L., caput, itis, head.

Distribution . — The interior of southern Queensland, New South
Wales, Victoria, and South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Chatterer. Usually in small flocks, frequenting
the scrub-lands. It resembles the other Babblers in habits, but is less
garrulous and shyer in disposition. Food: insects.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, similar in con-
struction to the nests of the other Babblers.

Eggs. — Four to five, light stone-colour or various shades of brown,
marked all over, but chiefly about the larger end, with hair-like markings
of sepia or blackish-brown. Breeding-season : July to December.

9. Spotted Bower-bird Chlamydera maculata Gould
Chlam-yd'-er-a — Gk, chlamys , mantle; Gk, dere, neck: mac-u-la-ta — L.,
maculatus, spotted.

Distribution. — From north-western Queensland to Victoria and South
Australia.

126

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the scrub-lands
of the inland districts. In habits it closely resembles the Satin Bower-bird,
but is of a shyer disposition. Often, however, birds that take up quarters
near homesteads soon become very tame and make nuisances of them-
selves in the orchards. It has a harsh, grating call, somewhat like the calls
of the Satin and Regent Bower-birds. It is an excellent mimic, imitating
perfectly the calls of other birds and bush sounds generally. It builds
playgrounds or bowers, like other Bower-birds, but much larger, averaging
about 3 feet in length, and decorated with an assortment of bleached
bones, pieces of glass, and other bright objects. The bowers are usually
built in a patch of scrub and are often pulled down and rebuilt time and
again. Food : insects, seeds, and native fruits and berries.

Nest. — A rather flat and shallow saucer-shaped structure, composed
of thin dead sticks and twigs; lined with fine twigs, and sometimes with
dried grasses. Generally placed in a leafy tree, at heights up to 30 feet
from the ground. Usually the nest is a frail structure through which the
eggs may be seen from beneath.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale greenish-yellow, well marked with numer-
ous lines of light to dark umber and blackish-brown, with others nearly
black, and underlying lines of pale purplish-grey. Many eggs are beauti-
fully marked, the tangled tracery of lines forming strange designs.
Breeding-season : usually October to December.

10, Western Bower-bird Chlamydera guttata Gould
gut-ta-ta — L., guttatus , spotted.

Distribution. — Mid-western, north-western, and central Australia.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting the scrub-lands.
It is similar in habits to the Spotted Bower-bird, though the bowers are
smaller and less substantial structures ; the decorations include pieces of
white or grey limestone, with the usual collection of bleached bones. Food:
insects (chiefly beetles), seeds, and native fruits and berries.

Nest. — A frail, saucer-shaped structure, similar in construction to that
of the Spotted Bower-bird, and usually placed in a small or large tree,
at heights up to 20 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs . — Usually two, pale greenish-grey, similarly marked with a
tangled network of lines like those of the Spotted Bower-bird. Breeding-
season : September or October to December, sometimes as late as
February.

11. Fawn-breasted Bower-bird Chlamydera cerviniventris Gould
cer-vi-ni-veri -tris — L., cervinus, coloured like a stag; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York Peninsula, on the
eastern side of the coastal range) ; also occurs in New Guinea and the
Louisiade Archipelago.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the scrub, open
forest, and mangroves. It is a shy species, more often heard than seen.

SOME BIRDS OF THE SCRUB-LANDS

127

Usually the bower built by this bird is a compact structure of closely inter-
woven sticks and twigs, in fact so compact are the walls of the bower that
they can be moved en masse . The decorations used about the bowers are
mostly bunches of green berries. This species is an excellent mimic.
Food : seeds, and native fruits and berries.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of sticks, twigs, and
bark ; lined with finer materials. Usually placed in a tree, at heights up
to 30 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs — Usually one, pale creamy-white, covered with a tangled net-
work of lines and hair-like markings of olive-brown, umber, purplish-
grey, and blackish-brown. Breeding-season : September to December.

12. Great Bower-bird Chlamydera nuchalis Jardine and Selby — 12A.

Female

nu-cha -lis — L., nuchalis , naped.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the scrub, open
forest, and mangroves. It is said to be less noisy and not such a good
mimic as the Spotted Bower-bird. Its bowers are usually built in isolated
patches of scrub; they average about 2 feet in length by 18 inches in
width and 15 inches in height; often they are roofed oven The decora-
tions usually consist of bleached shells of land-snails or pieces of bleached
coral. Food : seeds, and native fruits and berries.

Nest. — Like that of the Spotted Bower-bird, but often not so well
built. It is generally composed of a few sticks and twigs, and placed
in a thick bunch of twigs in a tree at heights up to 20 feet or more from
the ground.

Eggs. — One or two, pale greyish-green, marked, like those of the
Spotted Bower-bird, with a tangled tracery of lines and hair-like markings
of olive-brown, umber, blackish-brown, and purplish-grey. Breeding-
season: September to February.

128

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XIX .

BIRDS OF THE FOREST BORDERS AND GRASS-LANDS

1. Scarlet Robin Petroica multicolor Gmelin — 1A. Female
Pet-rote -a — Gk, petros, rock; Gk, oicos, house: mul'-ti-col-or — L., multi-
color, many coloured.

Distribution. — Extra-tropical Australia, and Tasmania; also occurs in
Norfolk Island.

Notes . — Also called White-capped Robin, Scarlet-breasted Robin, and
Robin Redbreast. Usually in pairs, frequenting chiefly the mountain
ranges during the spring and summer, and the flats and open forest-lands
near the coast in the autumn and winter. It is also commonly seen in
parks, orchards, and gardens. Its call-note is sweet and low; it also has
a melodious song. Food : insects of various kinds and their larvae.

Nest. — A cup-shaped sructure, composed of strips of bark, mosses,
and dried grasses, woven and bound together with cobwebs; lined with
hair, fur, feathers, or other soft materials. Generally built in a forked
limb or on a horizontal branch of a low tree. Often the nest is placed
between a piece of projecting bark and the trunk of a tree.

Eggs. — Three or four, bluish, greenish, or brownish-white, thickly
freckled, spotted, and blotched with shades of brown and underlying
markings of purplish-grey. Breeding-season: July or August to December.

2. Red-capped Robin Petroica goodenovii Vigors and Horsfield

— 2 A. Female.

goodenovii — Samuel Goodenough, Vice-President, Linnean Society,
London.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Redhead. Usually in pairs, frequenting chiefly
open scrub-lands of the inland districts. This species is similar in habits
to the Scarlet Robin. It has a peculiar call-note somewhat like the ticking
of a clock or the gentle tapping of wood. Food : insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of fine shreds of
bark and dried grasses, bound together with cobwebs; lined with hair
and fur, occasionally with a few feathers ; decorated on the outside with
pieces of lichen. Generally built on the top of a thick horizontal branch or
in an upright fork of a low tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, bluish or greyish-white, minutely dotted, spotted,

Plate XIX

BIRDS OF THE FOREST BORDERS AND GRASS LANDS

BIRDS OF THE FOREST BORDERS AND GRASS-LANDS 129

or blotched with shades of brown, and underlying spots of dull violet-grey;
the markings usually predominate on the larger end. Breeding-season :
July or August to December.

3. Pink Robin Petroica rodinogaster Drapiez — 3 A. Female
rod-in-o-gas'-ter — Gk. rodinos (rhodinos) , rosy; Gk, gaster, belly.

Distribution. — Victoria and Tasmania ; accidental to South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Pink-breasted Robin and Magenta-breasted
Robin. Usually in pairs, frequenting heavily timbered mountain ranges
and gullies during the spring and summer, moving to more open country
in autumn and winter. Its call-note closely resembles “Tick, tick, tick."
Food: insects of various kinds and their larva:.

Nest.— A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of green moss bound
together with cobwebs; lined with fur and down from the fronds of tree-
ferns; the nest is decorated on the outside with lichen. Generally built
into a forked horizontal branch.

Eggs. Three or four, greenish-white, minutely dotted and spotted

with pale brown, and underlying markings of lavender predominating at
the larger end. Breeding-season: October to December or January.

4. Rose Robin Petroica rosea Gould — 4A. Female
ro'-se-a — L., roseus, rosy.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from northern Queensland to
Victoria.

Notes. — Also called Rose-breasted Robin. Usually in pairs, frequent-
ing coastal rain forests and contiguous mountain ranges, where it breeds.
During the autumn and winter months it frequents chiefly the more open
country. Its call-note resembles “Tick, tick, tick;’’ it also has a pretty
song like “We-we-widi-wre-etle.” Food: insects and their larva:.

” Nest . — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of soft fibres and
moss, bound together with cobwebs ; lined with fur or plant down. Beauti-
fully decorated on the outside with lichen. Generally built at a consider-
able height on a horizontal branch.

Eggs. — Three, bluish-grey, minutely dotted and spotted, especially on
the larger end, with purplish-brown markings. Breeding-season : October
to December.

5. Flame Robin Petroica phcenicea Gould — 5A. Female
plice-nic'-e-a — Gk, phoiniceos, red.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, the
islands of Bass Strait, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Flame-breasted Robin. Usually in pairs, fre-
quenting cleared areas in the coastal ranges, and during the colder months
the warmer lowlands. Its song is best expressed by the words “You-may-
come, if-you-will, to-the-sea.” Food: insects of various kinds and their
larvae.

130

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of soft bark,
grasses, and rootlets ; coated with mosses and cobwebs ; lined with hair,
fur, or plant down. Generally built between a projecting piece of bark
and the side of a tree, in a burnt-out trunk or hollow log, or in a crevice
of a rocky embankment.

Eggs. — Three to four, pale greenish or bluish-white, finely dotted or
irregularly blotched with shades of brown and underlying markings of dull
lavender, more so at the larger end. Breeding-season: September to
December or January.

6. Eastern White-face Aphelocephala Icucopsis Gould

Aph-el-o-ceph'-a-la — Gk, apheles, smooth; Gk, cephale, head: leuc-ops r -is
— Gk, leucos, white ; Gk, op sis, appearance.

Distribution. — Southern and central Australia.

Notes. — Also called White-faced Titmouse and Squeaker. Usually
in pairs or flocks, and often observed feeding in the company of the
Yellow-tailed Thornhill. It frequents chiefly open forest country and
cleared lands, securing most of its food on the ground. A sociable species
with a cheerful song. Food: insects and their larvae, and seeds.

Nest. — A domed structure, loosely constructed of strips of bark and
grasses; lined with feathers or other soft materials. Generally placed in
the cavity of a stump or post, and often in a shed or dwelling.

Eggs. — Three to five, white to pale buff, profusely spotted and
blotched with shades of brown and purplish-grey markings, often forming
a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: June to October or November.

7- Western White-face Aphelocephala castaneiventris Milligan
cas-tan-e-i-ven-tris — L., castaneus , chestnut; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Western and north-western Australia to central
Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting chiefly open scrub-
lands. It is similar in habits to the Eastern White-face. Its call-note is
musical, though rather plaintive. Food : insects of various kinds and seeds
procured on the ground.

Nest. — Similar in shape and construction to that of the Eastern
White-face. Generally placed in a hollow stump or tree-trunk, or in a
prickly bush.

Eggs. — Three to four, pinkish- white, profusely spotted and blotched
with reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings, forming a large and
dark zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: August, September, and
October.

8. Chestnut-breasted White-face Aphelocephala pectoralis Gould
pec-tor-a'-lis — L., pectoralis, breasted.

Distribution. — Central Australia and the interior of South Australia.

BIRDS OF THE FOREST BORDERS AND GRASS-LANDS 131

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting open country and open
scrub-lands. Similar in habits to the other White-faces. Its call-note is
low and plaintive; it is rather a shy bird. Food : insects and seeds, procured
on the ground.

Nest. — Not recorded.

Eggs. — Not recorded.

9. Banded White-face Aphelocephala nigricincta North
ni-gri-cinc'-ta — L., niger, black; L., cinctus , banded.

Distribution. — Central Australia.

Notes. — Also called Black-banded White-face. Usually in pairs or
flocks, frequenting open country. It is similar in habits to the. other
White-faces, but its call-note is different and much sweeter. Food: insects
and seeds, procured on the ground.

Nest. — A bulky, dome-shaped structure with a long spout-like
entrance, composed of dark-coloured twigs ; lined with flower-stems,
flower-pods, and feathers. Generally placed in a prickly bush or shrub.

Eggs. Usually three, pale pinkish- white, speckled and spotted with

pale reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings, forming an irregular zone
at the larger end. Breeding-season: April and May.

10. Slender Thornhill Acanthiza morgani Mathews
Ac-anth-iz-a — Gk, acantheon , thorny brake; Gk, zao f I live: morgani i—
Dr A. M. Morgan, Honorary Ornithologist, National Museum, Adelaide,
South Australia.

Distribution. — Interior of South Australia, central Australia to
Western Australia (Shark Bay).

Notes.— Also called Thin-billed Tit. Usually in pairs or flocks, fre-
quenting open country studded with low bushes, rocky hillsides, and the
margins of salt lakes. It is inconspicuous in habits; has a feeble song,
and a call-note resembling “Tip-tip-tip,” uttered rapidly. Food: insects
and their larvse, procured on the ground and in low bushes.

Nest. An oblong, domed structure with an opening near the top,

loosely constructed of thin strips of bark and soft plant-stems, woven
together with cobwebs; warmly lined with plant down. Generally built
in a low bush.

Eggs. — Usually three, pinkish-white, marked all over, but particularly
at the larger end, with very small spots of dull reddish-brown. Breeding-
season : July to August.

11. Dark Thornbill Acanthiza hedleyi Mathews
hedleyi — Charles Hedley, scientist, of Sydney, Australia.

Distribution. — Western Victoria and southern South Australia.

Notes Also called Dark Brown Tit. Usually in pairs or small flocks,
frequenting samphire flats. It is extremely shy and quiet, and keeps very

132

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

close to cover. It has a pleasant, half -twittering, half-warbling song, of
short duration. Food : insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A domed structure with a side entrance near the top, com-
posed of swamp grasses and plant down; lined with feathers and plant
down. The nest was placed in a clump of small bushes in a dry swamp
at about 2 feet 6 inches from the ground. (Only one record.)

Eggs. — Two? white, sparsely spotted with pink all over, with fewer
spots towards the smaller end, and a decided ring of spots about one-third
of its length from the larger end. Breeding-season: October.

12. Varied Thornhill Acanthiza squamata De Vis
squa-ma-ta — L., squamatus , scaled.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Scaly-breasted Tit-warbler. Frequents mountain
ranges ; probably similar in habits and economy to the Buff-tailed Thornhill.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Buff-tailed Thornhill.

Eggs. — Similar to those of the Buff-tailed Thornhill,

13. Yellow-tailed Thornhill Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Quoy and Gaimard
chrys-orr (h)' -o-a — Gk, chrysos, golden; Gk, orrhos , tail.

Distribution. — Australia (except north-western Australia and North-
ern Territory) and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-rumped Tit, Yellow-rumped Tit-warbler,
and Yellow-tail. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting open forest and
partly cleared lands ; it is also common in orchards, vineyards, parks, and
gardens. It spends much of its time on the ground, and when flushed,
rarely flies any distance. Its song is a succession of soft, sweet notes,
following a sharp “Chip, chip.” Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A double nest, consisting of a dome-shaped structure with a
narrow entrance at the side, with a roughly formed, open, cup-shaped
addition built on top; composed of dried grasses, plant-stalks, cobwebs,
spiders’ egg-bags, wool, or other soft materials, all matted together ; lined
with fine dried grass, hair, wool, fur, and feathers. The upper compart-
ment is believed to be used by the male at night. Generally built in the
bushy end of a drooping branch, or in some thickly foliaged tree.

Eggs. — Three or four, white or pale flesh-colour, sometimes speckled
with pale red or reddish-brown markings at the larger end. Breeding-
season : July to December, and often until May.

14. Buff-tailed Thornhill Acanthiza reguloides Vigors and Horsfield
rSg-u-ldi'-des — L., regulus , European genus = kinglet; -oides from Gk,
eidos , form = like.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria and South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Buff-rumped Tit, Buff-rumped Tit-warbler, and
Bark-tit. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting open scrub-lands, lightly

BIRDS OF THE FOREST BORDERS AND GRASS-LANDS 133

timbered ranges, and open forests. It procures its food either among
the leaves and branches or on the ground. When in flight it spreads its
tail, and flits along with a jerky motion. Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest . — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side, slightly
protected by a small hood. It is composed of grass and bark, bound
together with cobwebs and feathers, sometimes with hair or fur ; lined with
soft materials. Generally built between a piece of loose bark and the
trunk of a tree, or in a shallow hole or a niche in a tree ; sometimes in a
low bush or in a grass-tree.

Eggs. — Three or four, white or fleshy- white, sprinkled with freckles
and small irregular-shaped spots of light red to rich brownish-red, the
markings being chiefly confined to the larger end. Breeding-season:
August to December.

15. Chestnut-tailed Thornhill Acanthica uropygialis Gould
ur-o-pyg-i-a-lis — Gk, ura ( oura ), tail; Gk, pyge, rump, tail.

Distribution. — Southern half of the Australian continent.

Notes . — Also called Chestnut-rumped Tit and Chestnut-rumped Tit-
warbler. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting chiefly the scrubs
of the dry inland districts. It is a restless species, always on the move,
uttering a little twittering call-note as it searches for food on the ground
or in the bushes. It also has a cheerful little song. Food: insects and
their larvae.

Nest. — A domed structure with an entrance at the side, composed of
bark and grass, bound together with cobwebs; lined with feathers. Gener-
ally placed in a hollow in a dead tree-trunk or a fallen log; mostly the
entrance is through a crack or knothole.

Eggs . — Usually three, fleshy white, freckled all over, but more so at
the larger end, with reddish-brown markings. Breeding-season: July and
August to December.

16. White-fronted Chat Epthianura albifrons Jardine and Selby

— 16A. Female

Ep-thi-an-ur'-a — derivation unknown: al’-bi-frons — L., albus , white; L.,
frons, forehead.

Distribution . — Southern Queensland to Victoria to south-western
Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Tang, Banded Tintac, Ringlet, Nun. Clipper,
Dotterel, Jenny-wren, Ballyhead, Gar, Bumps, Moon-bird, and Ringneck.
Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting chiefly open country studded
with low bushes, or swampy localities. In certain districts it is a resident
species, but generally it is a nomad. It is a sprightly bird, and spends
most of its time on the ground. Its call-note is a metallic “tang/’ Food:
insects of various kinds.

134

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of twigs, grass, and fine
rootlets; lined with hair. Generally placed in a low bush, in a shrub, or
in tall grass.

Eggs . — Three or four, white, with reddish-brown spots on the larger
end. Breeding-season : July to December and often in the autumn months.

17. Crimson Chat Epthianura tricolor Gould — 17A. Female
tn-col-or — L., tricolor , three-coloured.

Distribution. — Australia (except Cape York Peninsula).

Notes. — Also called Tricoloured Chat. Usually in pairs or small
flocks, frequenting open country studded with low bushes. It is nomadic
in habits, and like the White-fronted Chat, spends much of its time on
the ground. It is often seen in company with the Orange Chat. Its call-
note is a metallic “ting-ting.” Food: insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of grass and rootlets ; lined
with finer materials. Generally placed in a low bush or shrub or in a tuft
of long grass.

Eggs. — Three or four, white, sparingly spotted with reddish-purple
markings. Breeding-season: October to December (east); July to
March (west).

18. Orange Chat Epthianura aurifrons Gould — 18A. Female
dur-i-frons — L., aurum, gold ; L., frons, forehead.

Distribution . — Interior of Australia generally.

Notes . — Also called Orange-fronted Chat, Yellow Tintac, and Salt-
bush Canary. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting open country
studded with low bushes or samphire flats. It is nomadic in habits, and
although chiefly found in the inland areas, also visits the samphire swamps
bordering the coast. It is similar in habits and economy to the Crimson
Chat.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of grass and rootlets; lined
with finer materials. Generally placed in a low bush or in a tuft of long
grass.

Eggs . — Usually three, white, dotted all over, but more so at the larger
end, with purplish-red markings. Breeding-season : September to February.

19. Yellow Chat Epthianura crocea Castelnau and Ramsay — 19A.

Female

cro'-ce-a — L., croceus, yellow.

Distribution . — Interior of northern Australia, from Fitzroy River
(north-western Australia) to Norman River (northern Queensland).

Notes . — Also called Yellow-breasted Chat. Usually in pairs, fre-
quenting marshy swamps. It is not a shy species, but when disturbed,
makes for safety among the grasses. It procures its food, consisting of
insects, among the grasses or in small bushes. It has a simple call-note,
but no song.

BIRDS OF THE FOREST BORDERS AND GRASS-LANDS

135

Nest. A cup-shaped structure, composed of grasses and rootlets ;
lined with finer materials. Generally placed in a low bush.

Eggs. Usually three, white, dotted all over with purplish-red mark-
ings. Breeding-season: November to January.

20, Gibber-bird Ashbyia lovensis Ashby

Ashbyia — Edwin Ashby, ornithologist, Blackwood, South Australia:
lovensis — J. R. Love, collector of Australian birds for Edwin Ashby.

Distribution. — Central Australia and the interior of Queensland, New
South Wales, and South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Desert Chat. Usually in pairs or family parties,
frequenting open country— chiefly gibber plains. It is unlike the other
Chats in habits, for it spends most of its time on the ground and rarely
takes to the low bushes. It also mounts high in the air, after the manner
of a Song-lark, and in its descent utters a sharp “Whit-whit-whit.” Food :
insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A deep, neat structure, composed of small twigs and dry
grass; neatly lined with rootlets. Built in a comparatively deep hole, the
rim extending or overlapping all round and slightly higher than the level
of the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, pure white, with reddish-brown spots clustered
round the larger end ; sometimes other spots are scattered over the smaller
end. Breeding-season : May to October or after rain.

21. Speckled Warbler Clithonicola sagittata Latham

Chtho-nic'-o-la — Gk, chthon, earth; L., colere, to inhabit: sa-git-ta-ta — L.,
sagittalus, marked with arrows.

Distribution . — South-eastern Queensland, eastern New South Wales,
Victoria, and South Australia.

Notes . — Also called Little Field-lark, Little Wren, Speckled Jack,
Blood-tit, and Jenny-wren. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting
open forest country and open areas. It is often seen in the company of
the Yellow-tailed Thornhill, Buff-tailed Thornhill, and Brown Thornhill.
It spends much of its time on the ground, and is very trustful. Food :
insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A domed structure with a side entrance, composed of dried
grasses; lined with soft materials. Built in a slight depression in the
ground.

Eggs . — Three or four, glossy reddish-brown, with a darker zone at
the larger end. Breeding-season: September to January.

136

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XX

PARROTS AND COCKATOOS OF THE FOREST-LANDS

1. Red-cheeked Parrot Geoffroyus geoffroyi Bechstein — 1A. Female
Geoffroyus — Geoffroy St Hilaire, French naturalist: geoffroyi Geoffroy
St Hilaire.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York Peninsula) ; also
occurs from Timor to New Guinea.

Notes. — Very little has been recorded' of the habits of this Parrot,
except that it frequents the scrub fringing the banks of rivers, and that
its call and flight differ from other Australian Parrots.

Nest. — In a hollow in a scrub tree. (W. McLennan found a nest
containing two young birds in the scrub at Rocky River, Cape York
Peninsula, in December 1920.)

Eggs. — Not recorded.

2. Superb Parrot Polytelis swainsoni Desmarest
Po-lyt'-el-is — Gk, poly teles , magnificent: swainsoni — William Swainson
(1789-1855), English ornithologist and artist.

Distribution. — Interior of New South Wales and Victoria (Riverina
district and Murray River basin).

Notes. — Also called Green Leek, Barraband Parakeet, and Scarlet-
breasted Parrot. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting chiefly
belts of timber bordering watercourses, and adjoining grass-lands. It is
generally observed either feeding on the seeds of grasses and other plants,
or seeking nectar in the blossoms of eucalypts. Females and immature
males are duller in colour than the adult male, and they do not possess
the yellow markings on the head, cheeks, and throat, or the red band
on the chest.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree, at a considerable height
from the ground.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season : September to December.

3. Princess Parrot Polytelis alexandrce Gould
alexandrce — Queen Alexandra.

Distribution . — Central Australia to Western and north-western
Australia.

Plate XX

PARROTS AND COCKATOOS OF THE FOREST-LANDS

PARROTS AND COCKATOOS OF THE FOREST-LANDS 137

Notes. — Also called Queen Alexandra’s Parakeet, Alexandra Parrot,
Alexandrine Parrot, and Princess of Wales’ Parakeet. Usually in pairs
or small flocks; appears to be nomadic in habits. It is generally seen in
belts of timber near watercourses, and spends much of its time on the
ground searching for the seeds of various grasses, chiefly spinifex. It
has the singular habit of lying on a stout limb of a tree like a lizard, instead
of perching on a twig or thin branch. Food : seeds of grasses and herb-
aceous plants.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: September, October,
and November.

4. Regent Parrot Polytclis anthopeplus Lear
an-tho-pep'-lus — Gk, anthos, flower; Gk, peplos , robe.

Distribution. — Interior of Victoria, New South Wales, South Aus-
tralia, and Western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Black-tailed Parrot, Rock Pebbler, Smoker, Mar-
lock Parakeet, and Mountain Parrot. Usually in pairs or small flocks,
frequenting scrub-lands and timber bordering watercourses. It is very
similar to the Superb Parrot in habits and economy. Females and im-
mature males are much duller in colour than the adult male.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season : September to December.

5. Red-winged Parrot Aprosmictus erythropterus Gmelin

A-pros-mict'-us — Gk, aprosmictos, not mixing with others: e-ryth-rop'-ter -
us — Gk, erythros, red; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, Queensland, and New South
Wales.

Notes. — Also called Red-winged Lory and Crimson-winged Parrot.
Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting scrub-lands and timber
bordering watercourses. It is usually a shy and wary species, and has a
rather heavy laboured flight when disturbed. While on the wing it fre-
quently utters a loud screeching call. Food: seeds, berries, nectar, and
buds of flowers ; also insect larvae of various kinds. Females and immature
males differ from the adult male in being duller in colour ; they also lack
the dark blue back and rump as well as the crimson on the wings.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Three to six, white. Breeding-season : September to

December.

6. King Parrot Aprosmictus scapularis Lichtenstein
scap-u-la-ris — L., scapularis , shouldered.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from Cairns to Victoria.

Notes. — Also called King Lory. Usually in pairs or small flocks.

138

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

inhabiting chiefly heavily timbered ranges and brushes. It is not so active
as most Parrots, and its flight is laboured. Although its call-notes are
harsh and loud, the male at times utters a soit and musical double note.
It feeds almost entirely on native seeds, fruits, and berries; in certain
districts it does damage to ripening maize crops.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Three to six, white. Breeding-season : October to December.

7. Red-sided Parrot Lorius pectoralis P. L. S. Muller — 7 A. Female

Lor-i-ns — N.L. from a Malay word for parrot: pec-tor-a-lis — L.,
pectoralis , breasted.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland (eastern Cape York Peninsula,
from the Pascoe River to Rocky River) ; also occurs in the Aru Islands
and New Guinea.

Notes. — This beautiful Parrot was discovered in the scrubs bordering
the Pascoe River, where it is fairly plentiful. It feeds on nuts and seeds
of tall scrub trees, which it visits at daybreak, returning to its roosting-
place at night. The call-note of the male is a long throaty “Kurrrah,”
uttered at intervals and occasionally repeated rapidly, and the call of the
female is a screeching whistle resembling “Kluk kalert.”

Nest . — In a large hole in a tall deciduous tree, leafed fig-tree, or
Moreton Bay chestnut-tree, growing in the scrub, at heights up to 70
feet from the ground.

Eggs . — Two, white. Breeding-season: October to December.

8. Galah Kakatoe roseicapilla Vieillot

Kak-a-to-e — Fr., kakatoes , cockatoo: ro-se-i-cap-ill'-a — L., roseus, rosy;
L., capillus, hair of the head.

Distribution. — Australia, chiefly inland; accidental to Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Rose-breasted Cockatoo, Willie-willock, and
Willock. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting open country, chiefly
inland plains interspersed with belts of timber, or trees bordering
watercourses. It spends much of its time on the ground feeding on the
seeds of grasses and other plants; when disturbed it rises with loud shrill
cries. A flock in flight presents a wonderful spectacle of colour, as the
birds turn simultaneously exposing their rose-pink underparts. Food:
seeds of grasses, plants, trees, bulbs, and roots ; it causes considerable
damage to crops, but also devours immense quantities of seeds of plant
pests.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree ; lined with green leaves.

Eggs. — Four or five, white. Breeding-season : September and
November (eastern Australia) ; February and March (north-western
Australia).

PARROTS AND COCKATOOS OF THE FOREST-LANDS

139

9. Little Corella Kakatoe sanguinea Gould
san-guiri-e-a — L., sanguineus , blood-stained.

Distribution . — Northern, central, north-western, and South Australia,
and New South Wales ; inland chiefly.

Notes . — Also called Bare-eyed Cockatoo and Blood-stained Cockatoo.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting open country interspersed with belts
of scrub, or timber bordering watercourses. It spends much of its time
on the ground feeding on the seeds of grasses and other plants, also on
bulbs and roots. It generally feeds just after sunrise and before dusk,
spending the rest of the day in a tree, where it occupies itself by stripping
off leaves, twigs, and bark, very often completely destroying many trees.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Usually three, white. Breeding-season: August to October.

10. Corella Kakatoe tenuirostris Kuhl
ten-u-i-ros-tris — L., tenuis , slender; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — Southern, Western, and north-western Australia.

Notes . — Also called Long-billed Cockatoo. Usually in pairs or flocks,
frequenting plains or timber bordering watercourses. It spends much of
its time on the ground, feeding on the seeds of grasses and other plants
and on bulbous roots.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Two to four, white. Breeding-season: August to November.

11. White Cockatoo Kakatoe galerita Latham
gal-er-l'-ta — L., galeritus, crested.

Distribution . — Australia (except Western Australia, south of the
Fitzroy River), King Island, and Tasmania; also occurs in the Molucca
Islands and New Guinea.

Notes . — Also called Sulphur-crested Cockatoo. Usually in pairs or
flocks, frequenting heavily timbered mountain ranges, open forest-lands,
and timber bordering watercourses. The normal food of this Cockatoo
consists of seeds and bulbous roots. While the flock is feeding
individual birds perch on the topmost branches of a high tree to act as
sentinels, giving a shrill screech to warn the flock when an enemy
approaches. This species causes considerable damage to crops, chieflv
wheat and maize, either when newly planted or when ripening.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree ; also in holes in cliffs.

Eggs. — Usually two, white. Breeding-season: August to November.

12. Pink Cockatoo Kakatoe leadbeateri Vigors
leadbeateri — Benjamin Leadbeater, a London naturalist.

Distribution . — North-western, Western, and South Australia, and the
interior of Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Major Mitchell, Wee Juggler, and Leadbeater’s
Cockatoo. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting thickly timbered

140

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

scrub (mallee chiefly) and arid lands. It spends much of its time on
the ground feeding on bulbous roots and the seeds of plants and grasses.
When disturbed, it rises with a loud screech, sometimes alighting on a
dead tree, but mostly on the ground again.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Three or four, white. Breeding-season: September to
November.

13. Gang-gang Cockatoo Callocephalon fimbriatum Grant — 13A.
Female.

Cal-lo-cepJi -al-on — Gk, callos , beauty; Gk, cephale, head: fim-bri-d-tum —
L., fimbriatus, fringed.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, King Island,
and formerly in South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Red-headed Cockatoo or Parrot, Red-crowned
Cockatoo or Parrot, and Galah. Usually in pairs or small flocks,
frequenting chiefly heavily timbered mountain ranges. It procures most
of its food in trees, and is generally seen feeding on the seeds of eucalypts
as well as different species of acacia. It has a peculiar wheezy call-note,
and when feeding also utters a quaint growling sound. Food: seeds of
various kinds of trees, particularly acacias, generally eaten when green.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree, at a considerable height
from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, white. Breeding-season : October to December
or January.

14. Glossy Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami Temminck

Cal-ypt-o-rhynch'-us — Gk, calyptos, hidden; Gk, rhynchos ( rhugchos ),
beak: lathami — John Latham (1740-1837), famous English ornithologist
who described many Australian birds.

Distribution . — From central Queensland to Victoria and South
Australia (Kangaroo Island).

Notes . — Also called Leach’s Black Cockatoo. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting heavily timbered mountain ranges and open
forest-lands. It is generally seen feeding on different species of casua-
rinas, the seeds of which appear to constitute its principal food. When
feeding it is easy to approach, and when alarmed it moves, with a particu-
larly laboured and heavy flight, to a nearby tree.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Egg. — Dull white. Breeding-season: March to August.

15. Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus funereus Shaw
fun-er-e-us — L., funereus , funereal , black.

Distribution . — From central Queensland to Victoria and South
Australia, King Island, and Tasmania.

MANGROVES

Photo. K. A. IT indwood

MANGROVE SWAMP Photo a. F. TTUJ

PARROTS AND COCKATOOS OF THE FOREST-LANDS

141

Notes . — Also called Funereal Black Cockatoo and Black Cockatoo.
Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting heavily timbered mountain
ranges and adjacent open forest-lands, also banksia scrubs during the
winter months. It has a slow, laboured flight, and when on the wing
usually utters a weak but harsh and discordant cry. Usually it is shy and
wary, but occasionally while feeding the observer can approach quite near
before it flies off. Its food consists mostly of seeds of banksias, casua-
rinas, and hakeas, and large white horny grubs found living in eucalypts.
To reach these grubs it tears off the bark and wood with its powerful bill,
often making holes 8 or more inches in depth into a branch or tree-trunk.
It is considered a useful bird, helping to keep in check many timber-
destroying insect pests.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree, usually high up from the
ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, white. Breeding-season : May, June, and July
(Queensland) ; December and January in the south.

16. Red-tailed Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus banksi Latham
banksi — Sir Joseph Banks (1743-1820), a naturalist, companion of Cap-
tain Cook on his first voyage (1768).

Distribution . — Australia (except Cape York), and King Island.

Notes . — Also called Banks’s Black Cockatoo and Banksian Black
Cockatoo. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting alike heavily-
timbered and open forest-lands, also banksia scrubs. Its food consists
chiefly of seeds of eucalypts, casuarinas, and banksias, and also large white
grubs, the larvae of longicorn beetles. It is very similar in habits to the
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo. The female is duller in colour than the
male, and has yellow spots on the head, neck, and cheeks, and black bars
on the red portion of the tail-feathers.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Egg . — White. Breeding-season : May to July.

17. White-tailed Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus baudini Lear
baudini — Captain Baudin (1756-1803), of a French scientific expedition
to Australia.

Distribution . — South-western Australia, to Murchison River.

Notes . — Also called Baudin’s Black Cockatoo. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting heavily timbered and open forest-lands, also
banksia scrubs. It is similar in habits and economy to the other species of
the genus.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Two, white. Breeding-season: August to October.

18. Palm Cockatoo Probosciger aterrimus Gmelin

Pro-bos -ci-ger — Gk, proboscis , nose; Gk, gero, to carry: a-terr -i-mus —
L., aterrimus , very black.

Distribution . — Northern Queensland (Cape York district only) ; also
occurs in the Aru Islands and New Guinea.

142

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes . — Also called Cape York Cockatoo and Great Palm Cockatoo.
Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the scrubs and open forests.
It breeds in the forest country, and feeds in the scrub on the kernels of
large fruits and on grubs torn out of rotten wood. On several occasions
a flock of these birds has been seen at play in a big tree, going through
a series of displays and antics. A favourite food is the hard nut or stone
of the nonda plum or weeba-tree.

Nest . — In a hole either in a dead stump or a tree ; if in a tree, usually
about 35 feet from the ground, and of an average depth of 4 feet from
the entrance ; lined with splintered twigs.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season : August to January.

Plate XXI

PARROTS OF THE OPEN FOREST AND SCRUB-LANDS

PARROTS OF THE OPEN FOREST AND SCRUB-LANDS 143

PLATE XXI

PARROTS OF THE OPEN FOREST AND SCRUB-LANDS

!• Hooded Parrot Psephotus dissimilis Collett — 1A. Female

Pseph-o-tus — Gk, psephotus , inlaid with pebbles: dis-sim -il-is — L.,
dissimilis , unlike.

Distribution. — Northern Territory.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting the open forest-
lands and spinifex country. It possesses a singular jarring call-note; it
is generally observed feeding on the ground on grass seeds. When dis-
turbed, it flies to a nearby tree ; its flight is swift and slightly undulating
Food : seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest. — In a termites’ mound. Usually in the large magnetic and
spire-shaped termitaria. This bird makes an entrance tunnel, at the end
of which it excavates a nesting-chamber.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season : not recorded, probably
May to January.

2. Golden-shouldered Parrot Psephotus chrysopterygius Gould
chrys-op-ter-yg -i-us — Gk, chrysos, golden; Gk, pteryx ( pterygos ), wing.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Normanton to the Watson
River.

Notes. — Also called Golden-winged Parrot. Usually in pairs or small
flocks, inhabiting open forest :ountry, preferably areas dotted with mag-
netic and spire-shaped termitaria; it also inhabits mangroves. It is an
active bird, and has, in addition to the typical “Cluk-cluk” note, a soft and
pleasing whistle resembling “Joee-joee,” with an occasional “J eeo -” It is
generally observed feeding on the ground. Food: seeds of grasses and
herbaceous plants. The female is similar to the female Hooded Parrot.
Nest. — In a termites’ mound, like that of the Hooded Parrot.
Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: April and May.

3. Paradise Parrot Psephotus pulcherrimus Gould — 3A. Female
pul-cher -rim-us — L., pulcherrimus , very pretty.

Distribution. — Queensland; also northern New South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Beautiful Parrot and Ground Parrot. This
extremely rare and beautiful Parrot frequents sparsely timbered grass-
lands, where it is usually in pairs or small flocks. It was for many years

144

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

considered “lost,” but recently isolated pairs have been recorded. It
is generally observed feeding on the ground, and when disturbed flies to
a nearby tree. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest. — A hollowed-out chamber in a termites* mound on the ground,
entered through a narrow tunnel.

Eggs. — Three to five, white. Breeding-season: usually August to
December, and as late as March or April.

4. Red-backed Parrot Psephotus hcematonotus Gould-— 4A. Female
hcz'-mat-o-ndt'-us — Gk, haima, haimatos, blood; Gk, noton , back.

Distribution. — South-western Queensland, New South Wales, Vic-
toria, and South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Red-rumped Parrot, Grass Parrot, and Ground
Parrot. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting sparsely timbered grass-
lands. It is more often seen on the ground than in trees. The call-note
is a pleasing whistle, almost a song, which is uttered while the bird is
perched in a tree or when in flight. F ood : seeds of grasses and other
plants.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four to seven, white. Breeding-season : September to

November or December.

5. Mulga Parrot Psephotus varius Clark
var-i-us — L., varius , different.

Distribution . — Central Australia, inland from southern Queensland to
Victoria to Western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Many-coloured Parrot and Varied Parrot.
Usually in pairs or family parties, frequenting open scrub-lands and timber
bordering watercourses. It spends much of its time on the ground in
search of seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants; it is by no means shy.
When disturbed, it flies to a nearby tree, returning to the ground again
immediately the observer moves away. Its note is a slight chattering call,
or whistle, often repeated.

Nest .- — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree — usually a eucalyptus
bordering a watercourse.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: July to December.

6. Little Blue Bonnet Psephotus nar ethos H. L. White
mrethce — Naretha, on Transcontinental Railway (Western Australia).

Distribution. — South-eastern portion of Western Australia.

Notes.— Also called Naretha Parrot. Usually in pairs, family
parties, or flocks, inhabiting open country dotted with patches of scrub.
It has a soft, flute-like note resembling “Cloote-cloote.” Generally
observed feeding on the ground or in low shrubs. Food: seeds of grasses
and herbaceous plants.

Nest. — In a hole in a tree — chiefly a casuarina.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: August to December.

PARROTS OF THE OPEN FOREST AND SCRUB-LANDS 145

7. Blue Bonnet Psephotus hcematogaster Gould

hce-mat-o-gas-ter — Gk, haima, haimatos, blood; Gk, gaster, belly.

Distribution. — Inland from southern Queensland to Victoria, and
South Australia.

Notes. — Also called Crimson-bellied Parrot, Yellow-vented Parakeet,
and Bulloak Parrot. Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting timber
bordering watercourses and open country dotted with scrub. It is gener-
ally observed feeding on the ground and is by no means shy ; when flushed
it flies to a nearby tree. Food : seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.
Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Three to seven, white. Breeding-season : August to December.

8. Cockatiel Leptolophus hollandicus Kerr

Lep'-to-loph'-us — Gk, leptos , delicate; Gk, lophos, crest: hollandicus — of
(New) Holland.

Distribution. — Interior of Australia generally ; accidental to
Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Quarrian and Cockatoo Parrot. Usually in pairs
or flocks, inhabiting timber bordering watercourses and open country dotted
with scrub. It appears to be nomadic in habits, its movements being regu-
lated by the supply of food. It is generally seen on the ground searching
for food, and, when disturbed, usually flies to a dead tree. It has a
pleasant chattering note. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.
The female is duller in colouring than the male and differs in having the
tail barred.

Nest . — In a hollow limb, a hole in a tree, or in a stump. Mostly rather
large holes in dead trees are selected.

Eggs. — Four to seven, white. Breeding-season: August to December.

9. Eastern Rosella Platycercus eximius Shaw

Plat-y-cerc -us — Gk, platys, flat; Gk, cere os, tail: ex-im -i-us — L., eximius ,
excellent.

Distribution. — From southern Queensland to Victoria to South
Australia (Adelaide Hills), and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Rosella, Rosehill Parakeet, and Nonpareil Parrot.
Usually in pairs or flocks, inhabiting open forest country and partly
cleared lands. It spends much of its time on the ground in search of
seeds of grasses, which, with wild fruits and berries, constitute its normal
food. It is destructive in orchards and cultivation paddocks to such an
extent that it is considered a pest. When disturbed, it flies to a nearby
tree ; its flight is short and undulating ; its call is a pleasant whistling note.
Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four to nine, white. Breeding-season: September to January.

146

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

10. Yellow Rosella Platycercus flaveolus Gould
flav’-e-dl-us — L., flaveolus , yellowish.

Distribution, — Interior of New South Wales, Victoria and South
Australia (Murray River valley).

Notes. — Also called Yellow Parrot, Yellow-ramped Parakeet, Murray
Smoker, and Swamp Lory. Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting
chiefly timber bordering watercourses, and the adjoining open country.
It is generally seen on the ground in search of seeds of grasses and other
plants. When disturbed, it flies to the nearest timber, uttering its whistling
call-note while on the wing. There is considerable variation in the plumage
of this species.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four or five, white. Breeding-season: September to Decem-
ber or January,

11. Western Rosella Platycercus icterotis Kuhl

ic-ter-o -tis — Gk, icteros , yellow ; Gk, otos, genitive of ous, ear.
Distribution. — South-western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-cheeked Parrot. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, inhabiting open forest-lands and partly cleared country. It
is known to be fearless, and is common about homesteads and gardens.
Food: seeds of grasses and other plants; also wild fruits and berries.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Three to six or seven, white. Breeding-season: August to
November.

12. Pale-headed Rosella Platycercus adscitus Latham
ad-scl'-tus — L., adscitus, adopted, new.

Distribution. — Eastern Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Notes. — Also called Blue-cheeked Parrot and Moreton Bay Rosella.
Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting open forest-lands. There is
considerable variation in the plumage of this species; resembles the other
Rosellas in habits and economy.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Three to five, white. Breeding-season : in New South Wales,
September to December; in Queensland, at any time of the year after
rains.

13. Green Rosella Platycercus caledonicus Gmelin

caledonicus — of (New) Caledonia (in error, the bird inhabits Tasmania).
Distribution . — Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-bellied Parakeet and Green Parrot.
Usually in pairs or flocks, inhabiting open forest and partly cleared areas
as well as heavily timbered country. It is generally seen either feeding

PARROTS OF THE OPEN FOREST AND SCRUB-LANDS 147

among the blossoms of flowering eucalypts or searching on the ground
for seeds of grasses and other plants. In certain districts it is common
about homesteads.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four or five, white. Breeding-season: November and
December.

14. Northern Rosella Platycercus venustus Kuhl
ven-ust'-us — L., venustus, comely.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes. — Also called Smutty Parrot, Brown’s Parrot, and Brown’s
Parakeet. Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting open forest country;
it is often observed in mangroves. It frequently utters a rapid succession
of double notes resembling “Trin-se trin-se.” Its flight is low and some-
what rapid, taking a zigzag course. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous
plants, and native fruits and berries.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, white. Breeding-season: August to October.

15. Adelaide Rosella Platycercus adelaidce Gould
adclaidcs — city of Adelaide, South Australia.

Distribution. — South Australia (Mount Lofty and Flinders Ranges).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting open forest and
partly cleared lands. It is very similar in habits and economy to the
Eastern Rosella.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Five to seven, white. Breeding-season: September to
December.

16. Crimson Rosella Platycercus elegans Gmelin
el'-e-gans — L., elegans , handsome.

Distribution. — From Cape York to Victoria, Kangaroo Island, and
King Island; also occurs on Norfolk Island.

Notes. — Also called Crimson Parrot, Pennant’s Parakeet, Red Lory,
and Mountain Lowry. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting alike heavily
timbered ranges, brushes, big scrubs, open forest, and partly cleared
lands. It is generally observed feeding either on the ground upon the
seeds of grasses and other plants, or in blossom, fruit, and berry-bearing
trees. Its call is a shrill screech ; it also utters a chattering note when
feeding. It is very destructive in orchards.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree, usually close to the ground.

Eggs. — Six to eight, white. Breeding-season: October to January.

17. Cloncurry Parrot Barnardius nmcgillivrayi North
Barnardius — Edward Barnard, ornithologist, member of Linnean Society,
London : macgillivrayi — Alexander Sykes MacGillivray, Leilavale Station,
Cloncurry, Northern Queensland.

Distribution. — Interior of northern Queensland.

148

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting open forest
country, scrub-lands, and belts of timber bordering watercourses. Similar
in habits and economy to the Ringneck Parrot.

Nest. — In a hollow limb of a tree (A. J. Marshall).

Eggs. — Four or five white, the latter number laid in captivity; three
infertile of which are the types (Dr A. Lenden).

18. Ringneck Parrot Barnardius barnardi Vigors and Horsfield
barnardi — Edward Barnard.

Distribution. — Interior of southern Queensland, New South Wales,
north-western Victoria, and South Australia, and Flinders Range (South
Australia).

Notes. — Also called Mallee Parrot, Barnard’s Parakeet, Bulla-Bulla,
and Buln Buln. Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting scrub and open
forest-lands, or timber bordering watercourses. It is generally seen on
the ground searching for the seeds of grasses and other plants. At other
times it may be observed feeding on the flower-buds of eucalypts, and
when thus engaged it keeps up a continuous chatter. Food : seeds of
grasses and herbaceous plants; also native fruits, berries, and flowers.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: July to December.

19. Port Lincoln Parrot Barnardius zonarius Shaw
zo-na -ri-us — L., zonarius , banded.

Distribution. — From South Australia (Spencer Gulf) to central
Australia, Western Australia (Murchison River), and north-western
Australia.

Notes . — Also called Yellow-banded Parrot and Banded Parrot.
Usually in pairs or small flocks, inhabiting open forest, scrub-lands, or
belts of timber bordering watercourses. It is like the Ringneck Parrot
in habits and economy.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four or five, white. Breeding-season : August to November
generally (but varies according to the seasonal conditions in different
localities).

20. Twenty-eight Parrot Barnardius semitorquatus Quoy and Gaimard
semi-tor-qua -tus — L., semi, half ; L., torquatus, collared.

Distribution . — South-western Australia, from Albany to Perth.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or flocks, inhabiting open forest and scrub-
lands. It is named “Twenty-eight” from its call. In habits and economy
it resembles the other members of the genus.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four to six or seven, white. Breeding-season: August to
December.

PARROTS OF THE OPEN FOREST AND SCRUB-LANDS

149

21. Red-capped Parrot Purpureicephalus spurius Kuhl

Pur-pu -re-i-ceph -a-lus — L., purpureus, purple; Gk, cephale, head:
spu-rius — L., spurius, false.

Distribution. — South-western Australia.

Notes. — Also called King Parrot. Usually in pairs or small flocks,
inhabiting forest and scrub-lands. It is generally observed in the tall
eucalypts, upon the seeds of which it feeds. It also feeds on the seeds
of grasses and other plants ; at times it is destructive in orchards. It has
a peculiar harsh grating call-note repeated several times.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Five or six, white. Breeding-season: August to November.

150

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XXII

PARROTS OF THE TREE-TOPS AND OPEN SPACES

1. Blue-winged Parrot Neophema chrysostoma Kuhl

N e-o-phem -a — Gk, neos, new ; Gk, pheme, voice : chrys-o-stom-a — Gk,
chrysos, golden; Gk, stoma , mouth.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, King
Island, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also. called Blue-banded Grass-parrot. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting the grass-lands and sparsely timbered country. It
is nomadic in habits, and is found either on the coastal sandhills or in the
inland areas. It appears to be a definite migrant to Tasmania, where it
usually arrives during September, remains to breed, and departs in
February or March. Like the other members of the genus this species
is generally seen feeding among the grass and it will often allow an
observer to approach quite closely before it flies away. When disturbed,
the birds usually rise simultaneously, uttering feeble call-notes, but soon
settle again, either on the ground or in a nearby tree. Food: seeds of
grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest . — In a hole in a tree, stump, or log.

Eggs. — Five to seven, pure white. Breeding-season: October to
January.

2. Orange-breasted Parrot Neophema chrysogaster Latham
chrys-o-gas-ter — Gk, chrysos, golden; Gk, gaster, belly.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and
Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Orange-bellied Grass-parrot. Usually in pairs
or small flocks, frequenting grass-lands or partly timbered areas. Like
the Blue-winged Parrot this species is a summer visitant to Tasmania. It
is becoming extremely rare, both on the mainland and in Tasmania. In
habits and economy it is similar to the Blue-winged Parrot.

Nest. — Usually in a hole in a limb; sometimes in a stump or log
lying on the ground.

Eggs. — Four or five, pure white. Breeding-season : November to
January.

PARROTS OF THE TREE-TOPS AND OPEN SPACES

151

3. Elegant Parrot Neophema elegans Gould
el-e-gans — L., elegans , handsome.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and
Western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Grass-parrot and Elegant Grass-parrot. Usually
in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the grass-lands, often out on the
plains away from trees, barren sandy belts bordering the coast, and sparsely
timbered areas. It is nomadic in habits and generally very shy. When
flushed, it flies in a peculiar zigzag manner, sometimes alighting on the
ground within a short distance, but more frequently ascending to a great
altitude and disappearing from sight. Food : seeds of grasses and herb-
aceous plants.

Nest. — In a hole in a branch of a tree.

Eggs. — Four or five, pure white. Breeding-season: August to
October.

4. Rock Parrot Neophema petrophila Gould
pet-ropli -il-a — Gk, petros, rock; Gk, philos , fond of.

Distribution. — Coasts of South Australia and Western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Rock Parakeet. Usually in pairs or small flocks,
chiefly frequenting the islands off the coast, and swampy situations of the
coastal areas. Its flight is swift and erratic; at times it mounts to a great
height in the air. Strangely enough, it appears to select the most exposed
and bleak situations possible in which to dwell and breed. Food : seeds of
grasses and herbaceous plants. A favourite food is the seed of a species
of Mesembryanthemum, common on most islands off the south-western
coast.

Nest. — In a hole in a cliff or in a cavity under a rock.

Eggs. — Four or five, pure white. Breeding-season: September to
December.

5. Bourke Parrot Neophema bourki Gould
bourki — Bourke, New South Wales.

Distribution. — Interior of Queensland, western New South Wales,
Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and central Australia.

Notes. — Also called Bourke’s Grass-parrot, Night Parrot, and Pink-
bellied Parrot. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting thick acacia
scrubs. It passes most of its time on the ground searching for the seeds
of various grasses, herbaceous plants, and acacia trees, which constitute
its food. It also has the peculiar habit of visiting the watering places
after dark or before dawn.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Four or five, pure white. Breeding-season: August to
October.

152

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

6. Turquoise Parrot Neophema pulchella Shaw
pul-chel'-la — L., pulchellus, pretty.

Distribution . — Southern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria,
and South Australia.

Notes.— Also called Beautiful Grass-parrot, Chestnut-shouldered
Grass-parrot, and Chestnut-winged Grass-parrot. Usually in pairs or
small flocks, frequenting the grass-lands bordering open forest country.
It spends most of its time on the ground searching for the seeds of grasses
and herbaceous plants, which constitute its food. When flushed it flies
swiftly to the nearest timber, uttering a feeble call-note. This species is
extremely rare, probably verging on extinction. The female is very like
the female Scarlet-chested Parrot.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree, occasionally in a stump or
log lying on the ground.

Eggs. — Four or five, pure white. Breeding-season: August to
December.

7. Scarlet-chested Parrot Neophema Splendida Gould — 7 A. Female
splen -did-a — L., splendidus, bright.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and
Western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Splendid Grass-parrot and Orange-throated
Grass-parrot. Rarely recorded, then only as isolated pairs. It appears
to inhabit dry inland areas interspersed with patches of low scrub, often
far from water. In habits it is said to resemble the other species of this
genus. Food : seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest . — In a hole in a tree or hollow limb.

Eggs. — Four, pure white and almost lustreless. Breeding-season:
September is the only month recorded.

8. Blue-browed Lorilet Opopsitta coxeni Gould

Qp-op-sitt' -a — error in spelling = Cyclopsitta — Gk, cyclopSj round-faced;
Gk, psitie, parrot: coxeni— Charles Coxen of Queensland, ornithologist,
and brother-in-law of John Gould.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New
South Wales.

Notes.— Also called Red-faced Lorilet and Fig Parrot. Usually in
small flocks, inhabiting the brushes and big scrubs. Very little is known
of its habits, except that it frequents the tall fruit-bearing trees, chiefly the
different species of ficus. It is exceptionally quiet and difficult to observe.
Food: native fruits and berries.

Nest . — In a hollow stump.

Eggs. — Two, pure white, and with a slight lustre on the shell
(Kinghorn).

PARROTS OF THE TREE-TOPS AND OPEN SPACES

153

9. Red-browed Lorilet Opopsitta leadbeateri McCoy

leadbeateri — Leadbeater, a past assistant, National Museum, Melbourne.
Distribution . — Northern Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Blue-faced Lorilet or Fig Parrot. Usually in
small flocks, inhabiting the big scrubs and forest country. It is generally
observed in fruit-bearing trees, chiefly native figs, being at all times
remarkably quiet. Mostly the only indication of its presence is that
afforded by the quantity of fruit that drops while it is feeding ; even then
it is difficult to locate among the leaves. Food : native fruits and berries.
Nest. — In a hole in a tree, usually about 40 feet from the ground.
Eggs. — Three or four, white. Breeding-season : September to
November.

10. Little Lorikeet Glossopsitta pusilla Shaw

Gloss-op-sit'-ta — Gk, glossa , tongue ; Gk, psitte, parrot : pu-siV-la — L.,
pusillus, very small.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia (from Cairns to Victoria), South
Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Little Keet, Jerryang, and Green Parakeet.
Usually in flocks, chiefly frequenting flowering eucalypts and other blos-
som or fruit-bearing trees. Generally it is remarkably fearless and noisy,
both while feeding and when in flight. Its flight is swift, and flocks of
these birds travel great distances in search of flowering trees. Occasion-
ally it does considerable damage in orchards. Food: nectar, native and
cultivated fruits, and berries.

Nest. — In a hole in a tree, usually at about 20 feet from the ground.
Eggs . — Two, white. Breeding-season: August to December.

11. Purple-crowned Lorikeet Glossopsitta porphyrocephala Dictrichsen
por-phyr -o-cepK -a-la — Gk, porphyrios , purple ; Gk, cephale , head.

Distribution . — Southern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Purple-crowned Keet. Usually in flocks, fre-
quenting flowering eucalypts and other blossom or fruit-bearing trees. It
is very similar in habits to the Little Lorikeet, and, like that species, is
nomadic, its movements being regulated by the various flowering seasons
of our eucalypts. Its flight is swift; it utters its sharp screeching notes
when on the wing, and constantly while feeding. Food: nectar, native
and cultivated fruits, and berries.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Usually two, white. Breeding-season: usually September to
November.

12. Musk Lorikeet Glossopsitta concinna Shaw
con-cin-na — L., concinnus, pretty.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria, South Australia, and
Tasmania.

154

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Green Keet and Green Leek. Usually in flocks,
frequenting flowering eucalypts and other blossom or fruit-bearing trees.
It is nomadic in habits, and is often in the company of other species of
Lorikeets. It is considered a pest, as it does considerable damage in
orchards. Food: nectar, native and cultivated fruits, and berries.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Usually two, white. Breeding-season: August to December.

13. Varied Lorikeet Psitteuteles versicolor Lear

Psitt-eii-tel-es — Gk, psitte, parrot ; Gk, euteles, paltry : ver'-si-col-or — L.,
versicolor , different coloured.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, frequenting the flowering eucalypts and
melaleucas. It appears to be nomadic in habits, and resembles the Musk
Lorikeet in its flight and call-notes. Food : nectar and flowers.

Nest. — In a hollow or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, white. Breeding-season: May to January.

14. Scaly-breasted Lorikeet Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus Kuhl
Trich-o-gloss-us — Gk, trichos, hair; Gk, glossa , tongue: chlor-o-lep-id-
o-tus — Gk, chloros , yellow-green; Gk, lepidotus, scaly.

Distribution . — Northern and eastern Queensland and eastern New
South Wales.

Notes . — Usually in flocks, inhabiting open forest country and cul-
tivated fields ; it is generally observed among the flowering eucalypts. It is
nomadic, and resembles the Musk and Little Lorikeets in habits. At
times it does considerable damage in orchards. Food: nectar, native and
cultivated fruits, and berries.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, white. Breeding-season: May or June to
January.

15. Red-collared Lorikeet Trichoglossus rubritorquis Vigors and
Horsfield

ru-bri-tor-quis — L., ruber , red; L., torques , collar.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, and the
Gulf of Carpentaria (northern Queensland).

Notes . — Usually in flocks, frequenting the flowering eucalypts and
other nectar-bearing trees. It is said to resemble the Rainbow Lorikeet
in habits and economy.

Nest . — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, white. Breeding-season: May to December.

16. Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus moluccanus Gmelin
moluccanus — of the Molucca Islands.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania.
Notes. — Also called Blue Mountain Parrot and Blue-bellied Lorikeet.

Plate XXII

Sc alo

PARROTS OF THE TREE-TOPS AND OPEN SPACES

PARROTS OF THE TREE-TOPS AND OPEN SPACES

155

Usually in flocks, frequenting the flowering eucalypts, and often in the
company of the Scaly-breasted, Musk, and Little Lorikeets. Its flight is
swift and the flocks travel great distances seeking blossom-laden trees. It
utters an incessant chattering and screeching while feeding, and a sharp
call-note when on the wing. It does considerable damage in orchards and
on this account is considered a pest. Food : nectar, flowers, and native and
cultivated fruits.

N est. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Usually two, white. Breeding-season: usually October to
January.

17. Budgerigar Melopsittacus undulatus Shaw

Mel-op-sitt'-ac-us — Gk, melos, song; Gk, psittacos, parrot: un-du-la-tus —
L., undulatus , marked with waves.

Distribution. — Australia, chiefly the inland areas.

Notes. — Also called Shell Parrot, Warbling Grass-parrot, Canary
Parrot, Zebra Parrot, Betcherrygah, and Love-bird. Usually in flocks,
inhabiting the open country, chiefly those areas interspersed with belts of
timber, or isolated patches of scrub. It is a migratory species, and gener-
ally appears in the southern portions of the continent in late winter or
early spring, departing during February or March. It is generally observed
feeding in the grass, and when disturbed, rises with the rest of the flock
and settles in the nearest tree. While feeding, or when perched in a tree
it is constantly warbling and chattering in a most pleasing manner. Its
flight is remarkably straight and rapid, and is generally accompanied by
screeching call-notes. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — From four to eight, pure white. Breeding-season: usually
October to December.

18. Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor Shaw

Lathamus — Dr John Latham (1740-1837), English ornithologist who pub-
lished in 1801 the first descriptions of many Australian birds : dis'-col-or
L., discolor, different coloured.

Distribution . — South-eastern Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Red-shouldered Parrot, Swift-flying Parakeet,
and Swift-flying Lorikeet. Usually in flocks, frequenting the flowering
eucalypts and other nectar-bearing trees. It is a migratory species in
Tasmania, but appears to be nomadic on the mainland. In the north-
eastern portion of New South Wales its movements coincide with the
flowering of the various species of eucalypts. It is aptly named Swift
Parrot, as its flight is remarkably rapid; mostly one hears its screeching
note and sees a flash of green as it passes overhead. Food : nectar and
flowers.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, white. Breeding-season : November to January.

156

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

19. Ground Parrot Pezoporus ivallicus Kerr

Pcz-o-por'-us — Gk, pezoporos, going on foot: wallicus — of (New South)
Wales.

Distribution. — Coastal areas of New South Wales, Victoria, South
Australia, south-western Australia, and Tasmania; also recorded from
Frazer Island (Queensland).

Notes. — Also called Swamp Parrot. This extremely shy and rare
Parrot inhabits the swampy heath-lands, where it is mostly observed singly
or in pairs. Owing to its recluse habits and great running powers, it is
seldom or rarely seen until flushed. When disturbed, it rises in much
the same manner as a Quail, flies rapidly away across the swamp, and then
suddenly hurls itself down into cover again. It emits a strong scent, like
ordinary game-birds, consequently dogs will set it, sportsmen shooting it
to add to the game-bag. Its flesh is excellent eating, and said to be the
equal of Quail or Snipe. Food: seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest. — A hollow in the ground, lined with grass, and situated in
rushes or thick grass.

Eggs. — Three or four, white. Breeding-season : September to
December.

20. Night Parrot Geopsittacus occidentalis Gould
Ge-o-psit'-ta-cus — Gk, ge, earth; Gk, psittacos , parrot: oc-ci-den-ta-lis —
L., occidentalis, western.

Distribution. — The inland areas of Western Australia, South Aus-
tralia, and central Australia.

Notes. — Little is known of the habits of this extremely rare species
except that it inhabits the sandstone ranges, spinifex country, and shrubby
samphire flats. It is nocturnal in habits, seeking cover in rocky caves
and tussocks of spinifex during the day, venturing out to drink at the
nearest water at dusk, and to feed on the seeds of spinifex and other
grasses. The aborigines call it “Myrrlumbing” from the supposed
resemblance of its whistling note ; when alarmed, it utters a peculiar
note, like the croak of a frog. Food : seeds of various grasses.

Nest. — A depression in the ground, usually under spinifex grass.

Eggs. — Four or five, white. Breeding-season: not recorded.

SOME BIRDS OF THE MANGROVES

157

PLATE XXIII

SOME BIRDS OF THE MANGROVES

1. Large-billed Warbler Gerygone magnirostris Gould

Ge-ryg'-on-e — Gk, gerygone , born of sound: mag-ni-ros -tris — L., magnus ,
great ; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern Queensland (Cape
York to Cardwell district).

Notes. — Also called Large-billed Bush-warbler, Large-billed Fly-
eater, and Flood-bird. Inhabits the mangroves, where it spends most of
its time among the leaves and blossoms capturing the smaller kinds of
insects ; it has an extremely weak, twittering song.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a hooded entrance at the side ;
several inches of nesting material hang from the body of the nest, which
is composed of fine bark woven together with wool and spiders’ webs ;
lined with feathers. Placed in the foliage of a mangrove tree, at about
7 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, white, heavily marked on the larger end with reddish-
brown markings. Breeding-season: November (Melville Island).

2. Green-backed Warbler Gerygone chloronota Gould
chldr-o-ndt' -a — Gk, chloros, yellow-green ; Gk, noton , back.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.
Notes . — Also called Green-backed Fly-eater. Inhabits the mangroves
and adjacent scrubs; it is very shy and retiring in disposition and difficult
to locate among the leaves of the mangroves as it creeps about in search
of insects upon which it solely subsists ; it has a piping note though occa-
sionally other notes are uttered in slow succession.

Nest. — Similar in shape to that of the Large-billed Warbler; com-
posed of soft shreds of grass and fine rootlets, and thickly lined with
thistledown. Built among the foliage of a mangrove tree.

Eggs . — Two or three, white, freely marked with fine, elongated, red-
dish-brown dots, which predominate at the larger end, sometimes forming
a zone. Breeding-season: December.

3. Dusky Warbler Gerygone tenebrosa Hall
ten-e-bro-sa — L., tenebrosus , dark.

Distribution . — Mid and north-western Australia, from Carnarvon to
the Fitzroy River.

M

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

158

Notes. — Inhabits the mangroves; similar in habits to the other Warb-
lers; has a plaintive little song, also a harsh scolding note.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Large-billed Warbler; very neatly made
and composed of shreds of bark and spiders’ webs. Placed in a mangrove
tree up to 8 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Two, white, with reddish-brown dots and splashes, rather
freely distributed over the larger end. Breeding-season: October (Port
Hedland).

4. Mangrove-warbler Gerygone cantator Weatherill
can-ta-tor — L., cantator , singer.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland.

Notes. — Also called Singing Warbler, Singing Fly-eater, and Queens-
land Canary. Inhabits the mangroves and adjacent scrubs and gardens;
it has a very melodious song; perhaps the finest among the Warblers; it
frequents the leaves, branches, and blossoms of the mangroves and other
flowering trees, seeking small insects of various kinds.

Nest. — Similar to that of the other Warblers, but with a smaller and
more slender appendage, composed of fibrous bark, fine roots, and dry
grasses, firmly bound together with spiders’ webs and ornamented with
their cocoons; lined with feathers, thistledown, and other soft material.
Built in a mangrove tree at various heights from the ground.

Eggs. — Three, pale pink, some speckled all over with reddish-brown
spots, others with the spots forming a dark red zone at the larger end.
Breeding-season: October to December.

5. Dusky Honey-eater Myzomela obscura Gould

myz-o-mel'-a — Gk, myzein, to suck; Gk, meli } honey: ob-scur-a — L., ob-
scurus, dusky.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia to southern Queensland.

Notes. — Inhabits the mangroves, adjacent scrubs, and open forests,
searching the twigs, leaves, and blossoms for insects and nectar. Food:
insects and honey.

Nest. — A small, frail, cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of
rootlets, thin grasses, and sometimes hair, suspended from near the ex-
tremity of a long leafy branch of a tree or bush.

Eggs. — Usually two, white with a pale pinkish tinge, minutely spotted
with reddish-brown, chestnut, and purplish-grey, these markings being
confined chiefly to the larger end. Breeding-season: September to De-

cember.

6. Brown-backed Honey-eater Gliciphila modesta Gray
Gli-cipli-il-a — Gk, glycys , sweet; Gk, philos, fond of: mod-est’-a — L.,
modestus , modest.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, from Cape York to Cairns; also
occurs in the Aru Islands and New Guinea.

SOME BIRDS OF THE MANGROVES

159

Notes . — Inhabits the mangroves, tea-tree swamps, and scrubs ad-
jacent to water, where it is to be seen among the leaves, twigs, and blos-
soms searching for insects and honey; its call-note is sharp, shrill, and
monotonous.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a hooded side entrance, com-
posed of fine strips and pieces of paper bark, lightly bound with cobwebs
and silk from cocoons ; lined with pieces of soft paper bark, and sus-
pended from a small twig of a bush, up to 8 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, white, finely spotted and speckled with dark
brown and almost black markings, chiefly at the larger end. Breeding-sea-
son: August to April.

7. Rufous-banded Honey-eater Conopophila albogularis Gould
Co-no-popJi-il-a — Gk, conops, gnat; Gk, philos, fond of : al-bo-gu-ldr -is —
L. } albus , white; L., gularis , throated.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern Queensland; also
occurs in the Aru Islands.

Notes. — Inhabits the mangroves and paper-bark tree swamps; it is
an active bird, constantly flitting from branch to branch and taking ir-
regular flights, during which it utters its pretty song. Food: chiefly in-
sects.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed of fine strips of bark
matted together with spiders’ webs ; lined with fine grass ; suspended from
the extremity of a thin projecting branch, usually overhanging water.

Eggs. — Two or three, white, finely spotted and speckled nearly all
over with bright chestnut-red markings, particularly at the larger end.
Breeding-season: October to January.

8. Varied Honey-eater Meliphaga versicolor Gould
Mel-iph’-ag-a — Gk, mcli, honey; Gk, phagein , to eat: ver-si-col-or — L.,
versicolor, different coloured.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland, chiefly on the islands off the
coast ; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Inhabits the mangroves; it is an extremely active bird and a
splendid songster; flits among the leaves and blossoms, searching for in-
sects and honey.

Nest . — A small, cup-shaped structure, neatly composed of dried sea-
grasses, weeds, and dead leaves ; lined with fine rootlets. Frequently placed
in the foliage of a mangrove tree.

Eggs. — Two, pale pinkish-buff, possessing an indistinct cap of clouded
and very minute spots of pale reddish-brown markings. Breeding-season :
July to November.

9. Mangrove Honey-eater M eliphaga fasciogularis Gould
fas-ci-o-gu-la-ris — L., fascia , band ; L., gularis , throated.

Distribution . — Northern and eastern Queensland, chiefly on the is-
lands off the coast.

i6o

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Scaly-throated Honey-eater and Island Honey-
eater; it frequents the mangroves and coasval tributaries. A noisy species,
congregating in large numbers. Food: insects and honey.

A Test. — An open, cup-shaped structure, similar to that of the Varied
Honey-eater; usually placed among the foliage of a mangrove tree.

Eggs. — Two, pinkish-buff, passing into a warm reddish-buff on the
larger end where they are indistinctly and finely spotted with purplish-red
markings, with a few underlying spots of pale purplish-grey. Breeding-
season : August to December (to March or April).

10. Broad-billed Flycatcher Myiagra ruficollis Vieillot
My-i-ag'-ra — Gk, myiagra , flycatcher: ru-ft-coll'-is — L., rufus, red; L.,
collum, neck.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia; also occurs in Timor, the
Aru Islands, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Inhabits the mangroves, rarely found elsewhere; usually in
pairs, searching for insect-life among the leaves.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark, bound
together with a thick coating of spiders’ webs, and decorated on the out-
side with lichen. Usually built on a dead twig about 2 feet above high-
water mark over a channel in the mangroves.

Eggs. — Two, whitish, with a zone formed of brownish and lavender
spots round the larger end. Breeding-season: January and February.

11. Mangrove-robin Quoyornis leucurus Gould

Quoy-orn-is — Jean Rene Quoy (1790-1869), French scientist and ex-
plorer, associated with Gaimard : leuc-ur'-us — Gk, leucos, white ; Gk, ura
( our a), tail.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes . — Also called White-tailed Shrike-robin. Inhabits the man-
groves only, usually in pairs ; it secures its food among the leaves. Call-
note, a short, low whistle, more frequently uttered in the breeding-season.
Food : insects.

Nest. — A compact, open, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of
bark held together with cobwebs; lined with dry rootlets and grass, and
decorated on the outside with long strips of bark. Usually placed in the
fork of a mangrove tree, up to 14 feet from the water.

Eggs. — Two, light green to dark olive-green, marked with small
round spots of different shades of reddish-brown, with underlying mark-
ings of lilac. Breeding-season: August and September to January and

February.

12. Brown Whistler Pachycephala simplex Gould
Pach’-y-cepli-al-a — Gk, pachys, thick; Gk, cephale, head; sim-plex— L.,
simplex, plain.

Distribution. — Northern Territory.

Plate XX1J1

— ' — i —
/

1 1 I

2

1

3

1

4-

i : i : i

^ one 6 . foot 7

1 ~
8

1

9

1

/O

1 '

//

SOME BIRDS OF THE MANGROVES

SOME BIRDS OF THE MANGROVES

161

Notes. — Also called Brown Thickhead. Inhabits the mangroves and
adjoining dense scrubs and swamps; usually in pairs. It is very shy and
retiring in habits, and has a somewhat pleasing and lengthened song, but
without the “whip-crack” ending which is characteristic of the song of the
other Whistlers. Food: insects and seeds of various kinds.

Nest. — An open structure, composed of long pieces of coarse grass;
lined with the feathery seed-tops of grass and a few feathers. Generally
placed in an upright forked branch of a mangrove or other tree.

Eggs. — Two, pale buff, with spots of dark brown and underlying
markings of lilac, which are chiefly confined to the larger end. Breeding-
season: not recorded.

13. Yellow Silver-eye Zosterops lutea Gould

Zos-ter-ops — Gk, zoster , belt; Gk, ops, face: lu-te-a — L., luteus, yellow.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia to western Queensland,
from Carnarvon to the Norman River.

Notes. — Also called Yellow White-eye. Usually in small flocks, fre-
quenting the mangroves and nearby scrubs ; it is very active whilst search-
ing among the leaves for insects, uttering the while its low “tinkling”
note. Food: insects, berries, and seeds.

Nest. — A neat, cup-shaped structure, said to be similar to that of the
Grey-breasted Silver-eye; usually placed in a mangrove tree.

Eggs. — Three, pale bluish-green. Breeding-season : probably Septem-
ber to January.

14. White-breasted Whistler Pachycephala lanioides Gould — 14A.
Female

lan-i-old-es—G k, lanios, butcher-bird ; Gk, -oides, from eidos, form = like.

Distribution . — Northern Australia, from Shark Bay to the Gulf of
Carpentaria.

Notes— Also called White-bellied Thickhead. Usually in pairs, fre-
quenting the mangroves ; similar in habits and song to the other Whistlers.

Nest- Built of twigs and rootlets, lined with finer rootlets, and

fastened in position with cobwebs. Built in a fork in the centre of a
mangrove tree at about 6 feet from the ground.

Eggs. Two, stone-coloured or buff, with a zone of umber and lav-

ender spots at the larger end. Breeding-season : December to January.

15. Shining Flycatcher Piezorhynchus alecto Temminck — 15A. Female
Pi-ez-o-rhynch'-us — Gk, piezein, to press; Gk, rhynchos ( rhugchos ),
beak: alecto— one of the furies (mythological).

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia, from Point Torment in
the west to Hervey Bay in the east.

Notes. — Inhabits the mangroves chiefly, also tea-tree swamps and
river margins. Usually in pairs; it is shy, and is generally seen moving
about close to the ground among the roots of the mangroves ; it utters a

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

162

note closely resembling the croak of a frog, and it also has a pleasing
whistling call-note. Food: insects of various kinds and small crustaceans.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark bound
together with spiders' webs, decorated on the outside with pieces of bark
and lichen ; lined with fine rootlets. Usually built in trees or vines over-
hanging water.

Eggs. — Two or three, bluish or greenish-white, spotted with brownish
and lavender markings, particularly at the larger end, often forming
a zone. Breeding-season: October to January or February.

16. Yellow-billed Kingfisher Syma torotoro Lesson — 16A. Female

Syma — Syme Island in the TEgean Sea : torotoro — native name.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York) ; also occurs in the
Aru Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Saw-billed Kingfisher. The New Guinea form is
a mangrove-dwelling species, whilst the Cape York form usually inhabits
the scrub and open forest-lands. It has a mournful trilling call, ascending
the scale, and difficult to locate. Food: insects (chiefly beetles), small rep-
tiles, and crustaceans.

Nest. — In a hole in a termites' nest in a tree.

Eggs. — Three or four, pure white. Breeding-season: November and
December or January.

17. Mangrove Kingfisher Halcyon chloris Boddaert

Hal'-cy-on — Gk, ale yon, a sea-bird, later the kingfisher, hal, the sea, cyon,
breeding : chlor-is — Gk, chloros, yellow-green.

Distribution . — Northern Australia, as far south as Brisbane on the
east coast and Point Cloates on the west coast.

Notes. — A migratory species, inhabiting the mangroves ; its note is
similar to that of the Sacred Kingfisher, but much louder; it is usually
seen in pairs or small parties. Food: small fish and crustaceans.

Nest . — In a hole in a termites’ nest, in a hollow limb, or in a hole in
a tree.

Eggs. — Three, pure white. Breeding-season: October to December.

18. Black Butcher-bird Cracticus quoyi Lesson and Garnot — ISA. Red
Phase

Crac -tic -us — Gk, cracticos, loud-voiced: quoyi — Jean Rene Quoy (1790-
1869), French scientist and explorer, associated with Gaimard.

Distribution . — Northern Territory and northern Queensland; also
occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Two colour phases are known; both often occur in the same
brood, the black phase being the more plentiful. Usually in pairs, inhabit-
ing the mangroves; it is a melodious songster, with rich, flute-like notes.
Food : chiefly crustaceans and insects of various kinds.

SOME BIRDS OF THE MANGROVES

163

Nest. — A fairly large, open, cup-shaped structure, composed of thin
sticks and twigs ; neatly lined with grass and rootlets. Placed in an upright
forked branch of a tree about 20 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Usually four, greyish-green or cream, marked with roundish
spots of umber and dull slate, the markings becoming more thickly
crowded at the larger end. Breeding-season: October to January.

19. White-browed Crake Poliolimnas cinereus Vieillot
Pol-i-o-lim-nas — Gk, polios , grey; Gk, limne, marsh: cin-er-e-us — L.,
cinereus, ashen.

Distribution . — Northern Australia, from Kimberley to northern
Queensland.-

Notes. — Inhabits the mangroves; a fearless species, spending its time
on the mud or among the branches of the mangroves, where it climbs with
ease. Food: insects of various kinds, worms, slugs, and the leaves of
aquatic plants.

Nest. — Placed on the ground and formed of coarse grasses; lined
with finer materials.

Eggs. — Three to six in number, greenish-white to light yellowish-
clay, almost obscured with fleecy markings and streaks of dull chestnut-
brown or yellowish-brown. Breeding-season : January to April.

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS AND OPEN

COUNTRY

1

SOME BIRDS OF THE HEATH AND UNDERGROWTH 167

PLATE XXIV

SOME BIRDS OF THE HEATH AND UNDERGROWTH

1. Scrub-tit Acanthornis magnus Gould

Ac-anth-orn -is — Gk, acantha, spine, thorn ; Gk, ornis, bird : mag'-nus —
L., magnus, great.

D is tributio n. — T asmani a.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, keeping to the undergrowth;
similar in habits to the Scrub-wrens. It is a shy bird, and moves among
the tree-ferns and fallen logs with great rapidity, searching for insect-life.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure, composed of green moss, shreds of
bark, and fern down ; lined with fur or feathers. Usually built in a per-
pendicular fork of a large tree, up to 6 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Three, white, blotched with purple markings, particularly at
the larger end. Breeding-season: August to January.

2. White-browed Scrub-wren Sericornis frontalis Vigors and Horsfield

Ser-ic-orn-is — Gk, sericos, silken ; Gk, ornis, bird : front-a-lis — L, front -
atus ( frons ), with conspicuous forehead.

Distribution . — From southern Queensland to Victoria and South
Australia, and the Kent Group (Bass Strait).

Notes. — In pairs, inhabiting localities clothed with thick undergrowth,
such as creek-banks and gullies. It is very active and fearless. Its food
is procured among leaves and debris; call-note, a double whistle repeated
many times ; it utters a harsh scolding note when one approaches its nest.
Food : chiefly insects.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, loosely com-
posed of bark, leaves, and fine grass; lined with, feathers or other soft
materials. Usually placed on the ground beneath thick undergrowth or
under a heap of debris.

Eggs. — Three, whitish-stone or grey, with a dark zone of purplish-
brown at the larger end. Breeding-season: July to December.

3. Buff-breasted Scrub-wren Sericornis laevigaster Gould
laev-i-gas-ter — L., levis, light, meaning pale; Gk, gaster, belly.

Distribution. — From Herberton (northern Queensland) to north-
eastern New South Wales.

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

1 68

Notes . — In pairs or small parties, frequenting the brushes and humid
scrubs. Similar in habits to the White-browed Scrub-wren.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed
chiefly of dried ferns ; warmly lined with feathers. Usually situated
near the ground in thick undergrowth.

Eggs. — Two, pale brownish, with dark purplish-brown markings
forming a zone at the larger end. Breeding-season: probably November
to December.

4. Little Scrub- wren Sericornis minimus Gould
min-i-mus — L., minimus , very small.

Distribution — Cape York Peninsula (northern Queensland).

Notes. — Is fairly common in the scrubs, where it searches for food
among the fallen leaves and debris or among masses of fallen vines and
trees. Food : insects.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed of
leaves and rootlets ; lined with line tendrils and a few feathers. Placed
a few feet from the ground in a scrubby tree.

Eggs . — Usually three, faint reddish-brown, with a zone of fleecy
markings of light brown on the larger end. Breeding-season: probably
October to December.

5. Spotted Scrub-wren Sericornis nmculatus Gould
mac-u-la -tus — L., maculatus, spotted.

Distribution . — Western Australia, South Australia, Kangaroo Island,
and the interior of New South Wales.

Notes. — In pairs, inhabiting the undergrowth, scrubby places, and the
beds of dry watercourses. It is shy and retiring in habits, seeking its food
on the ground. Food: insects and worms.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed of
bark, leaves, and grass ; lined with feathers. Usually placed close to the
ground in a scrubby bush.

Eggs . — Three, whitish, with a zone of purplish-brown and lavender
spots at the larger end. Breeding-season : September to December or
January.

6. Large-billed Scrub-wren Sericornis magnirostris Gould
mag-ni-ros-tris — L., magnus , great; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution — From northern Queensland to Gippsland (Victoria).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small parties, frequenting the coastal
brushes and contiguous areas. It procures its food among the branches
and leaves of the tall trees as well as on the ground or in the under-
growth. Food : chiefly insects.

Nest . — A large, oval-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed
of leaves, moss, and grass; lined with feathers. Usually placed in a

Plate XXIV

SOME BIRDS OF THE HEATH AND UNDERGROWTH

SOME BIRDS OF THE HEATH AND UNDERGROWTH 169

drooping branch of a leafy tree, a tree-fern, or in a vine. A deserted
nest of the Yellow-throated Scrub- wren is often relined and used by
this species.

Eggs. — Three, whitish or grey, finely spotted with brown markings,
particularly on the larger end, where a zone is formed. Breeding-season :
August to January.

7. Brown Scrub- wren Sericornis humilis Gould
hu-mil-is — L., humilis, humble.

Distribution. — Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait.

Notes. — In pairs or small parties, frequenting alike the thick under-
growth of the deep gullies and open scrub-lands. Similar in habits to the
White-browed Scrub-wren.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed
of fine bark, moss, leaves, and grass; lined with feathers and other soft
materials. Usually built in a bushy tree or tussock close to the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, purplish-buff or reddish, spotted with umber
markings, particularly at the larger end, where a zone is formed.
Breeding-season: August to December.

8, Brown Honey-eater Gliciphila indistincta Vigors and Horsfield
GU-ciph' -%l-a — Gk, glycys, sweet; Gk, philos, fond of: in-dis-tinc -la — L.,
indistinctus, not clear.

Distribution. — Australia (except Victoria and South Australia) ; also
occurs in the Aru Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Least Honey-eater. In flocks, frequenting heath
and waste-lands, dwarf scrub, and mangroves. Procures its food among
the blossoms and foliage. One of the sweetest songsters of the Honey-
eaters. Food: insects and nectar.

Nest. — A small, cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of soft bark;
lined with plant down. Usually suspended in a small forked branch of a
shrub, often overhanging water.

Eggs. — Usually two, white, with a few minute specks of pale chestnut
scattered about the larger end. Breeding-season: June to January.

9. Pied Honey-eater Certhionyx variegatus Lesson — 9A. Female

Certh'-i-on-yx — Gk, certhios, bird, i.e., creeper; Gk, onyx, ( onychos ),
claw: var-i-e-ga-tus — L., variegatus , pied.

Distribution. — Interior of Australia, from New South Wales to
Western and north-western Australia.

Notes. — In pairs or small parties, frequenting chiefly heath and
scrub-lands and acacia scrubs, feeding among the flowering shrubs and
trees on insects, nectar, and pollen. It is shy and very quick on the wing,
and has the habit of flying high in the air, uttering its mournful

170

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

whistling song ; it will then drop suddenly, always turning over backwards
in its descent to cover.

Nest. — A shallow, cup-shaped structure, composed of fine grasses;
lined with finer grasses. Usually placed in a small bush or tree, up to
15 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs . — Two or three, pale yellowish-white, well marked all over with
spots and specks of dark umber and dull slate-grey. Breeding-season:
October to February (June and July).

10. Firetail Finch Zonae ginthus bellus Latham

Zon-ae-gintli-us — L., zona, band; Gk, aigintha, a kind of bird: belt -us
— L., bellus, beautiful.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tas-
mania, and Kangaroo Island.

Dotes. — Also called Beautiful Firetail Finch. In pairs or small
parties, frequenting heath and low-lying scrub-lands; rarely far from
water. It is a shy and silent bird, keeping to the undergrowth and tall
grasses. Call-note, a low, plaintive whistle; this species is sometimes
seen in the company of the Red-browed Finch. Food: seeds, insects,
and small snails.

Nest. — A long, bottle-shaped structure, placed on its side, composed
of thin dried and green grasses and a few leaves ; lined with fine grass and
a few feathers or other soft materials. Usually placed in the thick foliage
of a bush or tree.

Eggs. — From five to eight, usually five, pure white. Breeding-season:
September to January.

11. Red-eared Firetail Finch Zonaeginthus oculatus Quoy and Gaimard
oc-u-la-tus — L., oculatus, marked with eyes.

Distribution. — South-western Australia, from Cape Naturaliste to
Bremer Bay.

Dotes. — Also called Red-eared Finch and Zebra Finch. Usually in
pairs, frequenting swampy heath-lands ; it is secretive in habits, . always
keeping to the undergrowth. Its call-note is a soft ‘‘Win-win-win-win. ”
Food : seeds, insects, and small snails.

Dest. — A well-made, bottle-shaped structure, placed on its side, com-
posed of green grasses, those with slender rounded stems being chosen ; the
nest is without lining. Usually placed at the extremity of a horizontal
branch of a low swamp banksia, or other bush, at heights up to 15 feet
or more from the ground.

Eggs. — Four to six, pure white. Breeding-season : August to
December, sometimes later.

12. White-bearded Honey-eater Meliornis novce-hollandice Latham
Mel-i-orri-is — Gk, meli, honey; Gk, ornis, bird: nova-hollandice — of New
Holland.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria,
South and south-western Australia, and Tasmania.

SOME BIRDS OF THE HEATH AND UNDERGROWTH

171

N otes. — Also called Jew-bird, New Holland Honey-eater, and Yellow-
winged Honey-eater. Usually in flocks, inhabiting chiefly heath-lands of
the coastal districts ; it also visits the open timbered country when the
eucalypts are in bloom, and is common in gardens. Its call-note is sharp
and shrill; when alarmed it utters harsh chattering notes. Food: insects,
pollen, and nectar.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark,
grasses, and twigs ; lined with soft plant down, usually the brown velvety
down removed from the dead cones of banksias. Generally placed in a
banksia or other thick bush.

Eggs. — Two or three, pinkish-buff, becoming darker at the larger
end, spotted with dark reddish-chestnut and a few scattered markings of
slate-grey, chiefly about the larger end. Breeding-season : June to January
(throughout the year if the weather is propitious),

13. White-cheeked Honey-eater Meliornis niger Bechstein
ni-ger — L., niger , black.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from the Herberton Range (north-
ern Queensland) to Victoria and South Australia to south-western Aus-
tralia as far north as Perth.

Notes. — Also called Moustached Honey-eater. Usually in flocks,
inhabiting heath-lands and open timbered country. A very local species
and rather wary, otherwise it is similar in habits to the White-bearded
Honey-eater. Its loud call-note resembles the word “Egypt.”

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed chiefly of strips of bark
and dried grasses; lined with soft plant down, often the brown velvety
tufts removed from the cones of banksias. Usually placed in a banksia
or some thick foliaged shrub, close to the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale buff, with a zone at the larger end, formed
of reddish-brown and purplish-grey spots. Breeding-season: July to
December.

14. Crescent Honey-eater Phylidonyris pyrrhoptera Latham — 14A.

Female

Phyl-i-don-y-ris — Gk, philos, loving; Gk, hedone, pleasure: pyr-rhop'-ter-a
— Gk, pyrrhos, fire-coloured ; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution . — South-eastern Queensland to Victoria and South Aus-
tralia (St Vincent Gulf), Kangaroo Island, and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Tasmanian Honey-eater, Horseshoe Honey-eater,
Egypt Honey-eater, and Chick-chock. Usually in flocks, inhabiting heath
and dwarf scrub-lands, preferably where these areas are interspersed with
tall trees. In New South Wales it is common in the dwarf scrubs and
gullies of the mountain ranges. One of its call-notes is a metallic “Egypt-
Egypt,” with the accent on the last syllable. Food: insects, pollen, and
nectar.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and
twigs; lined with grass and a little soft material. Usually placed in a
thick scrub or similar situation close to the ground.

1 72

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Eggs . — Three usually, pale flesh-coloured, becoming darker at the
larger end, spotted and speckled with reddish-chestnut and a few scat-
tered markings of dull purplish-grey, particularly at the larger end.
Breeding-season : July to December or January.

15. Tawny-crowned Honey-eater Gliciphila melanops Latham
mel’-an-ops — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, ops, face.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South and south-western
Australia, Kangaroo Island, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Fulvous- fronted Honey-eater. Usually in pairs
or small parties, inhabiting heath and dwarf scrub-lands. Its song, which
is somewhat mournful, commences with a single note slowly drawn out,
followed by a quick double note, repeated six or eight times ; it is usually
uttered while the bird is perched on the topmost branch of a shrub. Food :
insects, nectar, and pollen.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and
grass, well matted together with spiders’ egg-bags and cobwebs ; lined with
plant down. Generally placed near the ground in a low bush or tussock.

Eggs. — Two or three, white, sparsely spotted and speckled, chiefly
at the larger end, with dull chestnut-brown markings. Breeding-season:
June to February or later.

16. White-fronted Honey-eater Gliciphila albifrons Gould
al'-bi-frons — L., albus, white; L., fronts, forehead.

Distribution. — Extra-tropical Australia (accidental to southern
Australia).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small parties, inhabiting heath and dwarf
scrub-lands of the interior. It is an active bird, darting about the foliage
and blossoms in search of insects and nectar; at all times it is shy and
wary. Its flight is erratic, and similar to that of the Tawny-crowned
Honey-eater. A local migrant in large flocks.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of bark and grasses;
usually lined with the brown velvety material removed from the cones
of the banksias, and sometimes with hair or fur. Mostly placed in a
low bush, within 5 feet of the ground.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale pinkish-white, spotted and blotched, par-
ticularly at the larger end, with reddish-brown and dull purple markings.
Breeding-season : generally July or August to January.

17. White-eared Honey-eater Meliphaga leucotis Latham

M el-ip Ji-ag-a — Gk, meli, honey; Gk, phagein, to eat: leuc-dt'-is— Gk,
leucos , white ; Gk, otos , genitive of ous , ear.

Distribution— Southern Queensland to Victoria, South Australia,
Kangaroo Island, and south-western Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small parties, frequenting alike heath and

SOME BIRDS OF THE HEATH AND UNDERGROWTH

173

scrub-lands, and open forest country. In New South Wales it chiefly
inhabits heath and adjoining scrub; it has a loud, clear call-note, and a
double short note, resembling “Chop-chop.” During the breeding-season
it becomes very tame; there are many instances of the female alighting
on the heads and clothes of observers, seeking hair and wool for nesting-
material. Food : insects and nectar.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of thin strips of
bark and grasses, well bound together with cobwebs ; lined with fur, hair,
or other warm materials. Usually it is placed in a low bush or small tree,
at heights up to 10 feet from the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, pale flesh-coloured or white, sparsely spotted
and blotched with pinkish-red and reddish-brown markings, becoming
more numerous at the larger end. Breeding-season: July to December.

18. Yellow-throated Honey-eater Meliphaga flavicollis Vieillot
fldv -i-colV -is — L., flavus, yellow; L., collum, neck.

Distribution. — Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait (King Island
and Flinders Group).

Notes. — Very similar in habits to the White-eared Honey-eater. Its
song is a loud, often repeated, whistle-like call, usually uttered while the
bird is perched on the topmost twig of a low tree. Food: chiefly insects,
procured among the leaves and flowers or in the crevices of bark on tree-
trunks; also nectar.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of strips of bark and
grasses ; lined with hair, fur, or other soft materials. Usually placed in a
small bush or thickly foliaged tree.

Eggs . — Two or three, pale pinkish-white, thickly spotted or blotched,
chiefly at the larger end, with reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings.
Breeding-season: July to November, sometimes as late as January.

19. Little Wattle-bird Anthochcera chrysoptera Latham
An-tho-chcer-a — Gk, anthos, flower; Gk, chairein, to rejoice: chrys-op'-
ter-a — Gk, chrysos, golden; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Southern Queensland to Victoria, South and south-
western Australia, Kangaroo Island, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Brush Wattle-bird, Mock Gill-bird, Mocker, and
Cookay-cock. In pairs or small parties, frequenting chiefly heath-lands
of the coastal districts. It is a very active and noisy bird, especially during
the breeding-season, constantly uttering a variety of harsh call-notes,
somewhat like “Get-up, Get-up, Wak, Wak, Keik Kewick, Keik Kewick.”
Food : insects chiefly, and nectar.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of small twigs, loosely put
together; neatly lined with soft grasses and very fine soft bark. Usually
placed in a fork of a low tree or bush.

Eggs. — One to three, pinkish-buff, spotted, chiefly at the larger end,
with reddish-brown and purplish-grey markings. Breeding-season :
August to December.

N

174

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XXV

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS
1. Redthroat Pyrrholcemus brunneus Gould

Pyr-rho-lcem'-us — Gk, pyrrhos, fire-coloured; Gk, laimos, throat: brun-
ne-us — L., brunneus, brown.

Distribution. — Central Australia, including the inland areas of New
South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, inhabiting low stunted scrub-lands.
Spends much of its time on the ground, over which it moves rapidly; it
is extremely shy and possesses a very sweet and melodious song, fre-
quently uttered while perched on the topmost twig of a low bush ; it is also
a splendid mimic. Food : insects of various kinds, procured on the

ground or among the herbage and undergrowth.

Nest. — A round structure with an entrance at the side, composed of
bark-fibre and grasses ; sometimes lined with feathers. Usually built in a
low bush close to the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, of various shades of purplish-brown with a
clouded zone or cap of a darker shade of the ground colour at the larger
end. Breeding-season: August to November (March, April).

2. Spinif ex-bird Eremiornis carteri North

E-rem -i-orn -is — Gk, eremia , desert ; Gk, ornis , bird : carteri Tom
Carter, British ornithologist, who resided in Western Australia for many
years.

Distribution. — Mid-western and north-western Australia and Monte
Bello Island and Barrow Island.

Notes .— Also called Desert-bird. Usually in pairs, inhabiting spinifex
( Triodia ) and low scrub; it is shy and retiring in habits, spending most
of its time on the ground. The song of the male is likened to the French
words, Je suis, a vous, and the notes of the female to “Thrip-thrip.”
Food : insects of various kinds, chiefly small grasshoppers and beetles.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, substantially built of finely shredded grass or
herbage, lined with fine roots, and placed in a bunch of spinifex.

Eggs. — Two, pinkish-white, closely covered all over, particularly at
the larger end, with minute markings of pale lilac and purplish-brown and
from light to dark reddish-brown. Breeding-season: August (Barrow

Island) .

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS

175

3. Emu Wren Stipiturus malachurus Shaw — 3 A. Female
Stip-it-ur'-us — L., stipes , stipitis , stem; Gk, ura ( our a ), tail: mal-a-
chur-us — Gk, malacos, soft; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail.

Distribution. — South-eastern Queensland, New South Wales, Vic-
toria, South Australia, south-western Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes . — According to seasons, in pairs or small parties; inhabits
swampy heath-lands. It is very shy, keeping to the rank undergrowth,
through which it moves in a mouse-like manner. It has a low, squeaking
call-note, and, when flushed, utters a slight twitter. Food: insects of
various kinds, procured on the ground or among the rank undergrowth.

Nest. — A round structure with an entrance at the side, composed of
grass loosely put together, lined with finer grasses, and built in a tuft of
grass or low bush.

Eggs. — Three or four, white, freckled or spotted all over with red
markings, especially at the larger end. Breeding-season : August to De-
cember.

4. Mallee Emu Wren Stipiturus mallee Campbell

mallee — name of district where the mallee (species of eucalyptus) grows.

Distribution . — The mallee districts of north-western Victoria and
South Australia.

Notes. — In pairs or small parties, inhabiting the undergrowth of the
mallee scrubs and surrounding low scrub. Similar in habits to the Emu
Wren. The female does not possess stripes above the eyes, or on the
cheeks or throat (see female of the Emu Wren).

Nest. — Very similar to that of the Emu Wren.

Eggs . — Very similar to those of the Emu Wren.

5. Rufous-crowned Emu Wren Stipiturus ruficeps Campbell
ru-fi-ceps — L., rufus, red ; ceps, from L. caput , capitis , head.

Distribution. — Central Australia to mid-western Australian coast.

Notes. — In pairs or small parties, inhabiting spinifex country or
stunted scrub-lands. Similar in habits to the other Emu Wrens. The
female differs from the male in the same manner as the females of the
other species.

Nest . — An oval structure with an entrance at the side, composed of
fine bark, grass, and spiders’ webs; lined with feathers and plant down;
placed in a tussock of spinifex or low bush.

Eggs. — Two, white, slightly tinged with pinkish-buff, well marked
all over, particularly at the larger end, with spots and specks of reddish-
brown and others of light umber. Breeding-season: October.

6. Heath-wren Hylacola pyrrhopygia Vigors and Horsfield
Hy-lac-o-la— Gk, hyle, wood; L., colere, to inhabit: pyr-rho-pyg'-i-fi
(g = j)— Gk, pyrrhos , fire-coloured; Gk, pyge, rump, tail.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia
(Mount Lofty Range).

176

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Chestnut-rumped (or tailed) Ground-wren and
Scrub-warbler. In pairs or small parties, according to the seasons, fre-
quenting heath-lands. It is shy and retiring, moving along the ground or
among the undergrowth with great rapidity. Has a melodious song and
is a wonderful mimic. Food: insects of various kinds, procured on the
ground or in the vegetation.

Nest . — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed of
grasses and bark; lined with feathers; placed on or near the ground in a
low bush.

Eggs. — Two or three, pinkish-white to buff, spotted with shades of
purplish-brown, more so at the larger end where a zone is formed.
Breeding-season: July to December.

7. Shy Heath-wren Hylacola canta Gould
caul -a — L., cautus, shy.

Distribution . — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia to south-
western Australia and Kangaroo Island.

Notes. — Also called Shy Ground-wren and Shy Scrub-warbler. Simi-
lar in habits to the Heath-wren.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, composed of
bark and grasses; lined with finer grasses, sometimes with feathers or
other soft material; placed near the ground.

Eggs. — Two or three, faint purplish-brown, minutely freckled with
purplish-brown markings, slightly deeper at the larger end, often forming
a zone. Breeding-season : September to November or December.

8. Striated Field-wren Calamanthus fuliginosus Vigors and Horsfield

Cal-am-antli-us — Gk, calamos, reed; Gk, antJios, bird: fu-li-gin-o-sus — •
L., fuliginosus t sooty.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, south-eastern South Aus-
tralia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Striated Reed-lark and Mock Quail. Usually in
pairs or small parties, frequenting heath-lands and low stunted scrub-lands.
A shy bird, spending most of its time on the ground, over which it hops or
moves among the undergrowth with great celerity. Has a very pleasing
song, usually uttered while perched on the topmost twig of a low bush.
Food: insects of various kinds, procured on the ground or among the
vegetation. All the species of this genus carry their tails erect.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side, com-
posed of moss, dried grasses, and leaves; lined with feathers; placed on
or near the ground.

Eggs. — Three, of various shades of brown, clouded with darker
shades of the ground colour, often forming a zone at the larger end.
Breeding-season: July or August to December.

Plate XXV

6 7

one foot

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS

177

9. Rock Field- wren Calamanthus montanellus Milligan
tnon-tan-eir -us — L., montanellus , of the mountains.

Distribution. — Mid-western Australia (Dirk Hartog Island) to south-
western Australia (Stirling Ranges).

Notes . — Usually in pairs or small parties, inhabiting low scrub-
lands as well as the rocky or stony foothills of the Stirling Ranges. Simi-
lar in habits to the Striated Field- wren.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Striated Field-wren.

Eggs . — Similar to those of the Striated Field-wren.

10. Rufous Field-wren Calamanthus campestris Gould
cam-pes -tris — L., campestris, of the fields.

Distribution. — Interior of New South Wales, from Broken Hill to
Eyre’s Peninsula (South Australia).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small parties, inhabiting open plains cov-
ered with salt-bush, blue-bush, and low scrub-lands. It is shy and very
cautious, running mouse-like over the ground among the herbage. Call-
note, a sweet and melodious song. Food : insects of various kinds, pro-
cured on the ground or among the vegetation.

Nest. — Globular in form with an entrance at the side, composed of
dried grasses ; lined with feathers. Placed beneath a low bush or on the
bare ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, uniform pale chocolate, darker on the larger
end, sometimes having an indistinct zone. Breeding-season: July, or after
rains in summer or winter.

11. Rusty Field-wren Calamanthus isabellinus North
is-a-bell-V -nus — L., isabellinus, isabelline (i.e. drab) in colour.

Distribution . — Interior of South Australia, central Australia, to
Western Australia.

Notes . — Inhabits heath and low scrub-lands, also dry sandy waste-
lands. Similar in habits to the other Field-wrens.

Nest . — Similar in construction and shape to those of other species of
the genus ; often placed on the bare ground as well as under low bushes
and in tufts of grass.

Eggs. — Similar to, but slightly paler generally than the Rufous
Field-wren. Breeding-season: after rains, both in summer and winter.

12. Western Grass- wren Amy tornis textilis Dumont

A-my-torn-is — Gk, amytis, daughter of Astyages; Gk, ornis, a bird: tex-
til-is — L., textilis, woven.

Distribution. — Central Australia to Western Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small parties, frequenting salt-bush,
spinifex, and low scrub-lands ; is almost always on the ground ; carries its
tail very erect, and runs and hops over the surface of the ground and

178

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

through the undergrowth with great speed. It has a low plaintive song
uttered while at rest, also a faint high-pitched call-note. Food: insects
and seeds, procured on the ground and among the vegetation. The female
is distinguished from the male by the rufous patches at the sides of the
breast.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed 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.
Placed in the centre of a low bush close to the ground.

Eggs . — Two or three, white or reddish- white, sprinkled over with
dots and small irregular spots, with a few blotches of rich red or pinkish-
red and a few underlying markings of lilac-grey, becoming confluent and
forming an irregular zone at the larger end. Breeding-season : August
to October.

13. Dusky Grass-wren Amytornis purnelli Mathews
purnelli — H. A. Purnell, ornithologist, Geelong, Victoria.

Distribution. — Central Australia (Macdonnell, Musgrave, and Ever-
ard Ranges).

Notes. — Inhabits the porcupine grass growing on the foothills of the
ranges ; it is extremely shy and possesses a sweet, twittering song. Food :
insects and seeds. The female has rufous patches on the sides of the breast.

Nest. — Not described.

Eggs. — Not described.

14. Thick-billed Grass-wren Amytornis modestus North
mod-est’-us — L., modestus , modest (in colour).

Distribution. — Interior of New South Wales, western Victoria,
South Australia, and central Australia.

Notes. — In pairs or small parties, inhabiting spinifex, blue-bush, and
dry sandy watercourses. Similar in habits to other Grass-wrens.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Western Grass-wren.

Eggs. — Two, dull creamy-white, well marked all over, more particu-
larly at the larger end, with spots and blotches of brown, as well as dull
to rich reddish and rusty-brown markings. Breeding-season : after rain,
early in the year.

15. Striped Grass-wren Amytornis striatus Gould
stri-a-tus — L., striatus , striped.

Distribution. — Interior of New South Wales, Victoria, and South
Australia.

Notes. — More often called Striated Grass-wren; usually in pairs or
small parties, frequenting low scrub and sandy areas. Similar in habits
to other Grass-wrens. The female has rufous patches on the sides of the
breast.

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS

179

Nest . — Partly domed, composed of bark-fibre and the dried blades or
spines of porcupine grass, built on a foundation of pieces of bark. Placed
close to the ground, in or under the shelter of a spinifex tussock.

Eggs . — Two, white, well marked with spots of reddish-brown and
scattered markings of pale lilac, particularly about the larger end. Breed-
ing season: after rain, early in the year.

16. Rufous Grass-wren Amytornis zvhitei Mathews

white i — Captain S. A. White, ornithologist, Adelaide, South Australia.

Distribution. — Mid-western Australia, north-western Australia, and
the interior of Northern Territory.

Notes. — Inhabits spinifex country; the male has a pleasing song, long
sustained, also a clear, liquid, musical call-note, “Tu-tu-tu.” The female
has rufous patches on sides of the breast.

Nest. — Cup-shaped, composed of dried spinifex leaves; lined with
kangaroo fur, the walls of the nest being thin and much interwoven with
the growing spinifex in which it is placed.

Eggs. — Two, white, marked all over, but particularly at the larger
end, with small irregular-shaped brownish-red dots and splashes. Breed-
ing-season : after rain.

17. Eyrean Grass-wren Amytornis goyderi Gould

goyderi — G. W. Goyder (1826-1898), explorer and surveyor-general,
South Australia.

Distribution . — South Australia (Lake Eyre).

Notes . — Only one pair known; nothing is recorded of its life history.
Nest . — Unknown.

Eggs. — Unknown.

18. White-throated Grass-wren Amytornis woodwardi Hartert
woodwardi — B. H. Woodward, a former director of Perth Museum, West-
ern Australia.

Distribution . — Northern Territory (South Alligator River).

Notes . — The only notes published are : “Runs very fast and hides un-
der rocks.” The female differs in having the abdomen chestnut, not cinna-
mon-rufous as in the male.

Nest . — Not described.

Eggs . — Not described.

19. Dorothy Grass- wren Amytornis dorothece Mathews
dorothece — Dorothy, daughter of H. L. White, Belltrees, Scone, New
South Wales.

Distribution . — Eastern Northern Territory (McArthur River, Gulf
of Carpentaria).

i8o

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Numerous in porcupine grass and rocks in the ranges and
high sandstone country ; is very shy, hiding among the rocks.

Nest. — A bulky, dome-shaped structure (in shape much like the nest
of a Finch), composed of the dry seed stems of spinifex and dry stringy-
bark leaves; lined with soft dead leaves of spinifex; the whole structure
well bedded into the top of a bunch of spinifex.

Eggs. — Three, white, with faint shades of pinkish markings scattered
all over the surface, but more numerous at the larger end. Breeding-
season: January (McArthur River, Northern Territory).

20. Black Grass-wren Amytornis house • Milligan
housei — Dr F. M. House, Western Australia.

Distribution. — North-western Australia (north-western Kimberley).

Notes. — Only recorded from exceedingly rough country, strewn with
piled-up masses of sandstone, which in colour varies from red to black.
It runs over the boulders with its head and tail lowered. Food: insects.
The female differs from the male in having the breast and under-parts
chestnut.

Nest. — Undescribed.

Eggs. — Undescribed.

21. Eastern Bristle-bird Dasyornis brachypterus Latham
Das-y-orn-is — Gk, dasys, hairy ; Gk, ornis, bird : brach-yp( -er-us — Gk,
brachys, short; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Eastern New South Wales and eastern Victoria.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting swampy heath-lands and rank
undergrowth. It is shy, and seldom exposes itself, spending much of its
time on the ground among the thick vegetation ; it is very active in all its
movements, and carries its tail erect. Food: insects of various kinds, and
seeds.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance, very loosely
constructed and composed of dry bark, leaves, long grasses, and stalks of
plants; warmly lined with soft materials. It is usually placed near the
ground in a mass of grass, ferns, or a low bush.

Eggs. — Two, dull white or whitish-brown, with minute freckles and
dots of slaty-brown, wood-brown, and purplish-brown, the markings being
prominent at the larger end, sometimes forming a zone. Breeding-season :
September to December.

22. Western Bristle-bird Dasyornis longirostris Gould
lon-gi-ros-tris — L., longus, long; L., rostrum , bill.

Distribution. — South-western Australia.

Notes. — Also known as the Long-billed Bristle-bird ; is very rare, there
being no recent records. Searches made during the past few years have
proved fruitless. It was once found frequenting the reed-beds and scrubby

BIRDS OF THE HEATH-LANDS

181

swamp-lands near the coast at King George’s Sound ; it was remarkably
shy, spending most of its time on the ground. Its actions were extremely
quick, and its call-notes loud, clear, and varied. It carried its tail erect
and rarely took flight. Food : insects and seeds.

N est . — Oval in shape, with a side entrance, composed entirely of
dried, hollow grass-stalks, with a small portion of finer grasses placed in-
side as lining.

Eggs. — Two, dull white, minutely freckled and spotted with wood-
brown and purplish-brown markings, especially at the larger end, forming
a zone. Breeding-season : October to January.

23. Rufous Bristle-bird Dasyornis broadbenti McCoy

broadbenti — Kendall Broadbent (1837-1911), field naturalist and orni-
thologist, Queensland Museum.

Distribution . — Western Victoria, South Australia, and south-western
Australia.

Notes . — Also called Cartwheel-bird, its call-note resembling the noise
produced by an ungreased axle. Inhabits low scrub-lands matted with
rank grass; it is shy and cautious, carries its tail erect, rarely flies, and
spends most of its time on the ground. Food : insects and seeds.

Nest . — Oval in shape, with a side entrance, composed of rootlets and
dried grasses, loosely put together; lined with finer materials.

Eggs. — Two, dull pinkish-white, well marked all over with specks and
dots of purplish-brown, especially at the larger end, forming a zone.
Breeding-season: September to December.

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

182

PLATE XXVI

FAIRY WRENS OF THE HEATH AND SHRUBS

1. Blue Wren Malurus cyaneus Latham — 1A. Female

Mal-ur-us — Gk, malacos, soft; Gk, oura, tail: cy-an-e-us — Gk, cyanos,

blue.

Distribution . — From southern Queensland to Victoria and South Aus-
tralia, Kangaroo Island and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Superb Warbler, Blue Warbler, Blue Bonnet,
Blue Cap, Blue Tit, Mormon Wren, and Cocktail. Usually in pairs or
family parties, according to the season of the year. Its favourite haunts
are thickets on the fringes of scrubs and the banks of watercourses ; it is
also plentiful in orchards and gardens. It has a pretty, tremulous song,
somewhat like a musical alarm clock. Food : insects and their larvae. The
young male resembles the female; the first change in plumage is the
appearance of a dark blue tail and dark brown bill. Later other changes
follow quickly; black feathers appear on the nape and chest, and blue
feathers on the crown, cheeks, and back. After each breeding-season the
male moults into the brown phase again, until he is about three years
old, when he retains his adult plumage.

Nest . — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance at the side slightly
protected by a hood, composed of grasses, bark-fibre, rootlets, cobwebs,
and cocoons ; lined with feathers, fur, hair, wool, or other soft materials.
Usually built near the ground in shrubs, more especially those with grass
growing through them.

Eggs . — Three or four, fleshy or reddish-white, minutely dotted,
spotted, or blotched with pale red, or different shades of reddish-brown,
the markings being more numerous on the larger end. Breeding-season:
July to February.

2. Black-backed Wren Malurus melanotus Gould — 2A. Female
mel f -an-o-tus — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, noton , back.

Distribution. — Central- western Queensland, western New South
Wales, and north-western Victoria to the border of Western Australia.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or family parties, inhabiting low bushes
growing on the plains, in mallee, mulga, and brigalow scrubs, and in the
thickets on the slopes of hills, or in sheltered gullies. Very similar in
habits to the Blue Wren. Food: insects and their larvae.

FAIRY WRENS OF THE HEATH AND SHRUBS

183

es *' A dome-shaped structure with a rounded entrance near the
top, composed of grasses, bark-fibre and wool ; lined with feathers, fine
grasses, or wool. Usually placed near the ground in a low bush, favourite
nesting-sites being salt- bushes and blue-bushes.

Eggs • — Three or four, white to rich pinkish or faint reddish-white,
finely freckled, dotted, and blotched with shades varying from rich pinkish-
red to rich red, the markings being more numerous at the larger end,
where sometimes a zone is formed. Breeding-season : September t>o
November or December.

3. Turquoise Wren Malurus calldinus Gould
cal-la-i-nus — Gk, calldinos , like the calldis (turquoise).

Distribution. — South Australia (Spencer Gulf) to central Australia.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or family parties, freely dispersed through
low scrub and salt-bush, more especially along creeks, and gorges in the
ranges. Similar in habits to the Blue Wren. Food: insects and their
larvae. The female is very similar to the female Black-backed Wren.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure, composed throughout of soft dead
grey grasses, intermingled with silky-white and brown plant down, the
latter material also being used as a lining. Usually placed in a salt-bush,
tangled cane-grass, or in a dead bush lying on the ground.

Eggs . — Three or four, white, finely freckled, spotted, or blotched
with different shades varying from a bright red to dull reddish-brown.
Breeding-season: usually commences in November and lasts until the
end of April.

4. Splendid Wren Malurus splendens Quoy and Gaimard
splen-dens — L., splendens , shining.

Distribution. — South-western Australia, from the Stirling Ranges to
Geraldton.

Notes. — Also called Banded Wren. Usually in pairs or family
parties, frequenting the thickets and low scrub of the coastal districts.
Very similar in habits to the Blue Wren. Food: insects and their larvae.
The female is similar in plumage to the female Black-backed Wren, but
differs in having bluish outer webs to the bases of the flight feathers.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a rounded entrance near the
top, composed of dried grasses ; lined with finer grasses, wool, or feathers.
Usually placed in a low bush near the ground.

Eggs— 1 Three or four, white to pinkish- white, freckled or spotted
with purplish-brown, the markings being more numerous on the larger
end. Breeding-season: August to December.

5. Black-and-White Wren Malurus leucopterus Dumont — 5A. Female
leUc-op'-ter-us — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Mid-western Australia (Dirk Hartog Island and
Barrow Island).

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

184

Notes . — In pairs or family parties, inhabiting dwarf scrub-lands and
spinifex. The male is extremely shy and keeps to the cover of bushes or
spinifex. Similar in habits to the other species of Wrens. Food: insects
and their larvae.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance near the top,
composed of very fine dried grasses matted together with spiders’ webs,
cocoons, and wool ; lined with fine grasses, cocoons, and wool. Usually
placed in a low bush or in a tuft of spinifex.

Eggs. — Three or four, white, marked all over, but particularly at the
larger end, with small dots and splashes of pale reddish-brown, where
sometimes a zone is formed. Breeding-season : June to September.

6. Blue-and-white Wren M alums cyanotus Gould — 6A. Female
cy-a-ndt'-ns — Gk, cyanos, blue; Gk, noton , back.

Distribution . — The interior of southern Queensland, New South
Wales, and Victoria, to the coastal districts of Western Australia.

Notes . — Also called White-winged Wren. In pairs or family parties,
showing a preference for spinifex, salt-hush, blue-bush, and open roly-poly
country. Except that the fully coloured male is shy, it is similar in habits
to the other species of Wrens. Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest . — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance near the top,
composed of dried grasses, and lined with feathers or wool. Usually
placed in a low bush or in a tuft of tall grass, close to the ground.

Eggs . — Three or four, white, finely freckled with purplish or reddish-
brown markings; some eggs have a well-defined zone at the larger end.
Breeding-season: September to January.

7. White-backed Wren Malurus leuconotus Gould
leuc-o-not’-us — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, noton , back.

Distribution . — Interior of South Australia.

Notes . — Nothing is definitely known of the habits or economy of this
species, few specimens only being in existence. The female is similar to
the female Blue-and-white Wren.

Nest . — A dome-shaped oblong structure of fine grass, ornamented
and mixed with cobweb and wool, and lined inside with cotton from the
native “cotton-bush,” or the silky down from the seed-pods of an Asclepiad.
Placed in a small tuft of coarse grass near the ground, at other times among
the lower branches and grass at the base of a cotton-bush.

Eggs . — Three or four, white, with a faint pinkish or reddish tinge,
minutely freckled and spotted with dull red, particularly at the larger end
where often a zone is formed.

8. Variegated Wren Malurus larnberti Vigors and Horsfield — 8A.

Female

larnberti— A. B. Lambert (1761-1842), Secretary, Linnean Society,
London.

Plate XXVI

Ez

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2

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3

1

4

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one ./ oof.

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FAIRY WRENS OF THE HEATH AND SHRUBS

FAIRY WRENS OF THE HEATH AND SHRUBS

185

Distribution. — Throughout the coastal districts of southern Queens-
land and New South Wales.

Notes . — Also called Lambert’s Wren. Usually in pairs or family
parties, frequenting the undergrowth, heath-lands, and thickets on the
fringes of scrubs. It is very local in habits, a pair keeping to its own
territory; a much shyer species than the Blue Wren; its call is a subdued
twittering. Food : insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance near the top, com-
posed of dried grasses, bark-fibre, and spiders’ egg-bags; lined with fine
dried grasses, bark-fibre, fur, hair, or plant down. Usually placed near
the ground in a low bush, tuft of grass, or clump of ferns.

Eggs. — Three or four, white or fleshy to reddish-white, speckled or
spotted with different shades of red, the markings being more numerous
on the larger end. Breeding-season : September to December.

9. Purple-backed Wren Malurus assimilis North
as-sim-i-lis — L., assimilis , similar.

Distribution. — Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia to
Western Australia (Dirk Hartog Island).

Notes. — Chiefly an inland species, usually met with in pairs or family
parties. Its favourite haunts are mulga, mixed acacia scrubs, or under-
growth bordering creeks; also spinifex country. Very similar in habits to
the Variegated Wren. Food: insects and their larvae. The female is
similar in plumage to the female Variegated Wren.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a narrow entrance near the top,
composed of dried grasses and plant-stalks ; lined with plant down. Usually
placed in a bush, up to 5 feet from the ground.

Eggs ♦ — Three or four, white, sprinkled with dots, spots, and blotches
of faint pinkish-red, the markings being more numerous on the larger
end. Breeding-season: October and November.

10. Red-winged Wren Malurus elegans Gould — 10A. Female
eV-e-gans — L., elegans , handsome.

Distribution. — The coastal districts of south-western Australia, from
Perth to Albany.

Notes. — Also called Graceful Wren. Usually in pairs or family
parties, inhabiting chiefly the heath-lands bordering swamps. It is very
shy, resorting to the seclusion of the undergrowth. Food: insects and
their larvae.

Nest . — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance near the top, com-
posed of dried grasses and strips of bark; lined with feathers. Usually
placed in a low bush near the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, pinkish-white, freckled with spots of reddish-
brown, the markings being more numerous on the larger end. Breeding-
season: September to December.

1 86

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

11* Lovely Wren M alurus amabilis Gould — 11 A. Female
am-d-bil-is — L., amabilis , lovely.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or family parties, frequenting dwarf scrub-
lands and spinifex country. It is very shy, seldom being seen away from
cover; similar in habits to the Variegated Wren. Food: insects and their
larvae.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with an entrance near the top, com-
posed of dried grasses and skeletons of leaves, mixed with spiders’ webs
and egg-bags ; lined with fine grasses, rootlets, and fur. Generally placed
in a low bush.

Eggs. — Usually three, white or pinkish-white, sprinkled over with
minute specks and spots of dull reddish-brown, the markings predomin-
ating at the larger end. Breeding-season : September to October.

12, Blue-breasted Wren M alurus pulcherrimus Gould — 12A. Female
pul-cher-rim-us — L., pulcherrimus , very pretty.

Distribution. — South Australia to Western Australia (Eyre Peninsula
to the Wongan Hills and Stirling Ranges).

Notes . — In pairs or family parties according to the season of the year,
its favourite haunts being dwarf marlock or mallee scrubs growing in
patches on or about hills and dry creek-beds. It is very secretive in its
movements, more especially the male, otherwise this species is similar
in habits to the Variegated Wren. Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest . — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance near the top,
similar in construction to the nests of the other species of Wrens.

Eggs . — Usually three, white, spotted with reddish-brown at the larger
end. Breeding-season: September to November.

13. Red-backed Wren Malurus melanocephalus Latham — 13A. Female
tnel-an-o-cepli-al-us — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, cephale, head.

Distribution. — From Derby (north-western Australia) across tropical
northern Australia to northern Queensland, and eastern Australia as far
south as the Hunter River (New South Wales).

Notes. — Also called Scarlet-backed Wren and Black-headed Wren.
Usually in pairs or family parties, frequenting dwarf scrubs, heath-lands,
and swampy grass-flats. Very similar in habits to the Variegated Wren.
Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest. — A dome-shaped structure with a side entrance near the top,
composed of dried grasses; lined with finer materials. Usually placed in
a tuft of grass, within a few inches of the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, white, spotted chiefly at the larger end with
reddish-brown markings. Breeding-season: August to February.

FAIRY WRENS OF THE HEATH AND SHRUBS

187

14. Purple-crowned Wren Rosina coronata Gould — 14A. Female

Rosina — in honour of the late Mrs S. A. White of Adelaide, South
Australia : cor-on-a-ta — L., coronatus, crowned.

Distribution . — From Derby (north-western Australia) through the
Northern Territory to the Leichhardt River (northern Queensland).

Notes . — In pairs or family parties, inhabiting the cane-grass and areas
of pandanus palms growing near rivers. It has no song, but utters a
“chirp” while searching for food among the tall grasses, up the stems of
which it climbs with ease ; it also catches food on the wing. Food : insects
and their larvae.

Nest . — A bulky structure with a side entrance near the top, com-
posed of strips of paper bark and blades of cane-grass; lined with fine
grass-roots ; it frequently has a platform of grass built below the entrance.
Generally placed in cane-grass.

Eggs - — Usually three, pinkish-white, marked all over, but chiefly at
the larger end, with ill-defined spots or splashes of dark brownish-pink.
Breeding-season: January to June (July to December).

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

1 88

PLATE XXVII

SOME BIRDS OF THE AIR AND OPEN SPACES

1. Little Wood-swallow Artamus minor Vieillot
Ar'-tani-us — Gk, artamos, butcher: mi -nor — L., minor , smaller.

Distribution . — Australia (except the southern portion) ; also occurs
in Timor.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting the plains, chiefly
those studded with low trees ; also the rugged ranges of the interior and
northern parts. This species is very similar in habits and economy to the
Dusky Wood-swallow.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure of twigs and plant-stems, lined
with rootlets ; placed in the end of a hollow limb, in a cavity in the trunk
of a tree, or in clefts of cliffs. Often the nest consists only of a scanty
lining of materials placed in a hollow.

Eggs. — Usually three, dull white, spotted and blotched, chiefly at the
larger end, with shades of brown and underlying markings of slaty-grey.
Breeding-season : October to January.

2. Dusky Wood-swallow Artamus cyanopterus Latham
cy-an-op'-tcr-us — Gk, cyanos, blue; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — Australia (except tropical northern Australia), Tas-
mania, and the islands of Bass Strait.

Notes. — Also called Sordid Wood-swallow, Martin, and Jacky Martin.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting the open spaces in forest country
and partly cleared lands. It also frequents orchards and gardens, where
it does an immense amount of good in destroying insect pests of various
kinds. Like the other species of Wood-swallows, its flight is swift and
graceful ; it has the habit of roosting clustered together, like a swarm of
bees, on the limb of a tree, especially during very cold weather. Food :
insects of various kinds, procured on the wing.

Nest. — An open, cup-shaped structure, composed of thin, dried twigs ;
lined with grasses, rootlets, and occasionally horse-hair. Usually placed
in a thick forked branch of a tree, sometimes inside a projecting piece of
bark on a tree trunk, or on top of a stump, at heights up to 40 feet or
more from the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, white or creamy-white, spotted and blotched,
chiefly at the larger end, with varying shades of brown, black, and grey
markings, and often with well-defined zones. Breeding-season : September
to January.

Plate XXVII

SOME BIRDS OF THE AIR AND OPEN SPACES

SOME BIRDS OF THE AIR AND OPEN SPACES

189

3. Grey Swiftlet Collocalia francica Gmelin

Coll-o-cal'-i-a — Gk, colla , glue; Gk, calia, nest: francica — Isle of France,
now called Mauritius.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland and the islands off the coast; also
occurs from the Mauritius to Oceania.

Notes. — Usually in small flocks, flying over the open spaces of the
coastal ranges, the tops of the scrub, or about the precipitous sides of
rocky ridges. Occurs commonly at Dunk Island, the only recorded breed-
ing-place of the species, where it nests in caves. Food: small insects,
caught on the wing.

Nest. — A small, shallow, saucer-shaped structure, composed of a
glutinous substance made from the bird’s saliva, with which is mixed
fibre, grass-stems, and sheaths of grass-stalks ; lined with feathers. Nests
are usually attached together, and fastened to the walls of the cave with
the same glutinous substance.

Eggs — Usually one, pure white Breeding-season: September to
December.

4. Fork-tailed Swift Micropus pacificus Latham

Micr-o-pus — Gk, micros , small; Gk, pus ( pous) t podos, foot: pac-if -ic-us
— pacificus, of the Pacific Ocean.

Distribution. — Australia, accidental to Tasmania and New Zealand;
also occurs in north-eastern Asia, India, Malaysia, and New Guinea.

Notes . — Also called White-rumped Swift. Usually in flocks which
visit Australia during the spring and summer months. Generally seen
‘‘hawking’' for insects high in the air, or just above the tree-tops ; at times,
close to the ground. It is usual for large flocks to appear during unsettled
weather conditions. Food : insects, caught on the wing.

Nest . — A small, perfectly round plate of straw, thickest at the rim
and very slightly dished in the centre; a few feathers are worked into
the outer part of it, which is hardened with glutinous matter produced
by the bird. Placed in a vertical cranny or in a horizontal fissure in a
low rocky cliff, at about a full arm’s length from the entrance. Breeds
in small colonies on a small island off the north-eastern coast of China.

Eggs. — One to three, pure white and elongated in shape. Breeding-
season : June (Capt. Henry Lane Cochrane, R.N., M.B.O.U.).

5. Spine-tailed Swift Hirundapus caudacutus Latham
Hi-run-da-pus — L., hirundo , swallow; Gk, apus ( apous ), without feet:
caud-ac-u -tus — L., cauda, tail ; L., acutus, sharp.

Distribution. — Australia generally (except the interior), Tasmania,
and accidental to New Zealand; also occurs in Siberia, China, and Japan.

Notes .—Also called Needle-tailed Swift. In flocks, visiting Australia
during the spring and summer months. It is similar in habits to the Fork-
tailed" Swift. Food: insects, caught on the wing.

o

190

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest. — Like that of other swifts, composed of materials picked up in
the air and, according to some writers, a gelatinous substance secreted
by the bird. Breeds in crevices of cliffs and, according to Przevalsky, also
in hollow trees.

Eggs. — Two or three, dull white, long oval in form.

6. Fairy Martin Hylochelidon artel Gould

Hy-lo-chel-i -don — Gk, hyle, wood ; Gk, chelidon, swallow : ar-i-el — Gk,
aerios, airy ; ariel, a fairy, sprite.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Bottle Swallow, Cliff Swallow, and Land Swal-
low. In flocks, frequenting open country, chiefly in the neighbourhood of
creeks and rivers. This species is nomadic in its movements, but if the
weather conditions are mild, it will remain in the same locality throughout
the year. Food : insects, caught on the wing.

Nest , — A retort or bottle-shaped structure, composed of pellets of
mud; lined with dried grasses and feathers. Nests are built in rows or
clusters and often the entrances only are visible. They are placed under
the eaves of buildings, under the ledges of river-banks, under culverts, or
in hollow trees and caves.

Eggs. — Four or five, dull white, finely freckled with yellowish or very
faint reddish-brown markings, chiefly at the larger end, often forming a
zone. Breeding-season: August to January or February.

7. Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena Gould

Hi-run -do — L., hirundo , a swallow: ne-ox -en-a — Gk, neos , new; Gk,
xenos, strange.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called House Swallow. A common and very well-known
bird, frequenting park-lands and settled areas. It is, for the most part,
a migratory species ; prior to departure for the northern parts of Australia,
in the autumn, it congregates in large flocks. In many districts numbers
remain throughout the year. It has a sweet, twittering song. Food: small
flying insects.

Nest. — A cup-shaped structure, composed of pellets of mud reinforced
with small pieces of grass; lined with grass, horse-hair, and feathers.
Nests are built under eaves of buildings, verandas, bridges, and in shel-
tered caves.

Eggs. — Four or five, white, freckled and spotted, particularly towards
the larger end, with purplish-brown and underlying markings of lavender.
Breeding-season : August to December, occasionally during the autumn
months.

8. White-backed Swallow Cheramceca Icucosterna Gould
Cher-am-cec-a — Gk, cheramos , cleft; Gk, oicos, house: leuc-o-stern-a —
Gk, leucos, white ; Gk, sternon, breast.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

SOME BIRDS OF THE AIR AND OPEN SPACES

191

Notes. — Also called Black-and-white Swallow, White-breasted Swal-
low, and White-capped Swallow. Usually in small flocks, inhabiting open
country in the neighbourhood of rivers and creeks. It is chiefly found
in the inland districts. Nomadic generally, though at times stationary.
In cold windy weather it often shelters m numbers in old nesting burrows.
Food : small insects, caught on the wing.

Nest . — In a burrow in the vertical bank of a creek, about 2 or 3 feet
in length, with an oval nesting-chamber at the end which is lined with
small leaves, grass, and other material.

Eggs. — Four to six, usually five, pure white. Breeding-season :
August to December.

9. Cinnamon Bush-lark Mirafra zvoodwardi Milligan

Mirafra — native name: woodwardi — B. H. Woodward, a former director
of Perth Museum, Western Australia.

Distribution . — Mid-western Australia (Onslow).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small parties, inhabiting the plains. When
flushed, it flies a few yards only with a peculiar jerky flight, often remain-
ing for a second on quivering wings before suddenly dropping into the
shelter of the grass. It is one of our finest songsters and is an excellent
mimic. Like the Horsfield Bush-lark, it has the habit of ascending to
considerable heights, and there remains hovering in mid-air, or flying
slowly about, while it pours forth its pleasing song. It sings during the
day and at night, and is to be heard at its very best during the moonlight
nights of midsummer. Food : insects and seeds.

Nest. — A cup-shaped hollow scraped in the ground ; thickly lined with
dried grasses. Nests are generally well concealed in a tuft of grass.

Eggs . — Usually four, greyish- white, minutely speckled and spotted
all over, but chiefly about the larger end, with olive and dull slaty-grey
markings. Breeding-season: August to December, and even February or
March.

10. Horsfield Bush-lark Mirafra javanica Horsfield
javanica — of Java.

Distribution — Australia (except the south-western portion).

Notes. — Also called Skylark. Usually in pairs or small parties, inhab-
iting open plains, grassy flats, and cultivation paddocks. It is similar in
habits and economy to the Cinnamon Bush-lark.

Nest. — Like that of the Cinnamon Bush-lark.

Eggs. — Usually three, greyish-white or yellowish-grey, thickly
freckled all over with dark grey or greyish-brown; some eggs have the
markings confluent towards the larger end, forming a zone. Breeding-
season : August to December, often as late as February.

11. Ground-lark (Pipit) Anthus australis Vieillot

An -thus — Gk, anthos, bird: australis — southern (Australian).
Distribution . — Australia and Tasmania.

192

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open country gener-
ally. It is common everywhere, even in the public parks of our cities.
Frequently, when flushed, it rises with a graceful undulating flight, utter-
ing with each upward movement its warbling notes, then suddenly it drops
to the ground. It rarely flies for any great distance, generally relying on
short flights, or running to keep out of one’s way. Food : chiefly insects ;
also seeds.

Nest. — A rather deep, cup-shaped structure, composed of dried
grasses, and built in a hollow in the ground. It is generally placed near or
under a tuft of grass, and sometimes near a bush or stone.

Eggs . — Three or four, greyish-white, finely spotted and freckled all
over, but chiefly at the larger end, with pale umber and dull slaty-grey
markings. Breeding-season : August to January.

12. Chestnut-backed Quail Turnix castanota Gould

Tur-nix — L., turnix, quail : cas-ta-not'-a — Gk, castanon , chestnut ; Gk,
noton , back.

Distribution. — From Kimberley (north-western Australia) to Arn-
hem Land (Northern Territory).

Notes. — Usually in coveys of from fifteen to thirty in number,
frequenting the sandstone country. When disturbed, these birds seldom
rise together, but run along the ground; it is only when very closely
pressed that they will take wing, and then they merely fly a short distance.
While running on the ground their heads are thrown up as high as their
necks will permit, and as their bodies are carried very erect, a waddling
motion is given to their gait, which is very amusing. Food: mainly seeds.
The female is much larger than the male.

Nest . — A depression beneath a tussock or in a clump of grass, especi-
ally in the neighbourhood of water.

Eggs. — Usually four, greenish-white; some are boldly speckled with
very dark brown, or almost black, markings, especially on the larger end,
while others have much smaller faint spots of purplish-brown. Breeding-
season : January.

13. Buff-breasted Quail Turnix olivet Robinson
olivei — E. Olive, collector, Cooktown, Queensland.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York Peninsula).

Notes . — Usually in pairs or small coveys, inhabiting the rank grass-
lands in open forest country. Little is known of its habits, except that it
is remarkably shy and difficult to flush. Food: seeds; a large quantity of
fine gravel is swallowed to aid digestion. The female is much larger
than the male.

Nest. — An ovate structure with an entrance at the side, composed of
soft, dry, narrow blades of long fine grass; placed in a shallow depression
in the ground.

HEATH-LANDS Photo. K. A. Ilinrhcood

HEATH

Photo. P. A . Gilbert

SOME BIRDS OF THE AIR AND OPEN SPACES

193

Eggs. — Usually four, whitish, minutely speckled, spotted, and blotched
all over with markings of reddish-brown, bluish-grey, and black, the last
two colours -being the most predominant. Breeding-season : March.

14. Little Quail Turnix velox Gould
ve-lox — L., velox , swift.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Button Quail, Swift-flying Quail, Dotterel Quail,
Butterfly Quail, and Thick-billed Quail. Usually in coveys, large or small,
inhabiting the open plains. It is nomadic, its appearance being regulated
by the rainfall; if the season is a good one, large flocks appear; in times
of drought it seldom visits its old haunts. It lies close, and when flushed,
flies short distances at a great speed. Generally the flocks scatter when
disturbed, making it difficult to flush them again. Food : seeds and fine
gravel. The female is larger than the male.

Nest. — A slight depression in the ground, lined with grass; usually
placed near and partly hidden by a tuft of grass.

Eggs . — Usually four, buffy-white, thickly spotted with slate-grey,
chestnut, and odd spots of purplish-brown. Breeding-season : September
to December, but individuals may be found breeding practically through-
out the year.

15. Red-chested Quail Turnix pyrrhothorax Gould
pyr-rho-tho -rax — Gk, pyrrhos, fire-coloured; Gk, thorax , chest.

Distribution . — Northern, eastern, southern, and central Australia.

Notes . — Also called Chestnut-breasted Quail and Yellow Quail.
Usually in pairs or small coveys, inhabiting grass-lands, either in high dry
country or river-flats. It is nomadic in habits. Food : seeds.

Nest . — A slight depression in the ground, scantily lined with grasses,
usually protected by a grass tuft or sheltered by a low shrub; sometimes
situated in a grain crop.

Eggs. — Usually four, buffy-white, spotted with slate-grey, chestnut,
and dark brown markings. Breeding-season : September to December.

16. Red-backed Quail Turnix maculosa Temminck — 16A. Female
mac'-u-lo'-sa — L., maculosus , full of spots.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Australia to as far south as
northern Victoria; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Black-backed Quail, Orange-breasted Quail, and
Black-spotted Quail. Usually in pairs or small coveys, chiefly inhabiting
low marshy lands studded with low scrub. It is a shy species, lies very
close, and is very difficult to flush. Food : seeds.

Nest . — A hollow in the ground, scantily lined with grass; sheltered
by a tuft of grass, a low bush, or herbage.

194

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Eggs. — Usually four, greyish-white to a faint yellowish or light
stone-grey, almost entirely hidden by very minute freckles of pale umber
intermingled with other markings of varied shades of grey. Breeding-
season : October to January or February.

17. Stubble-quail Coturnix pectoralis Gould — 17A. Female
Cot-urri-ix — L., coturnix , quail: pec-tor-a-lis — L., pectoralis , breasted.

Distribution. — Australia (except the tropical coastal districts) and
Tasmania.

Notes. — Usually in coveys, large or small, inhabiting open plains, well-
grassed lands, and cultivation paddocks. It is nomadic in habits, often
appearing in immense flocks in good seasons. It is considered to be one
of the finest game birds of Australia, as well as one of the most useful.
Food: seeds (mostly of noxious weeds), green grasses of various kinds,
and insects and their larvae.

Nest — A grass-lined depression in the ground, sheltered by a tuft of
grass, herbage, or low bush; sometimes situated in standing crops.

Eggs. — Usually about seven or eight, huffy, freckled and blotched
with reddish-brown over the entire surface. Breeding-season : usually
September to January or February.

18. Plain Wanderer Pedionomus torquatus Gould — 18A. Female

Ped'-i-o-nom-us — Gk, pedionomos, plain-wandering : tor-qua -tus — L.,

torquatus , collared.

Distribution. — Western New South Wales, western Victoria, central
Australia, and South Australia.

Notes . — Also called Collared Plain Wanderer and Turkey Quail.
Usually singly or in pairs, inhabiting open plains and level grassed lands.
It flies only when compelled to do so, and when disturbed, crouches down
to hide itself in the grass. When running about it has the habit of raising
itself in an upright position on its toes, to enable it to take a wide survey
of its surroundings. Food : seeds and insects.

Nest. — A grass-lined depression in the ground, frequently sheltered
by a tuft of grass, occasionally a herbaceous plant, or low bush.

Eggs. — Usually four, stone-coloured or yellowish-white, thickly
freckled and blotched with a few smudges, interspersed with different
shades of umber and slaty-grey; some markings appear as if beneath the
shell. Breeding-season: September to January or February.

19. Brown Song-lark Cinclorhamphus cruralis Vigors and Horsfield
Cin-clo-rhamph'-us — Gk, cinclos ( kigklos ), bird; Gk, rhamphos , bill:
criir-a-lis — L., cruralis, (strong) legged.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes . — Also called Black-breasted Lark, Harvest-bird, Singing Lark,
Skylark, and Corn Crake. Usually in pairs, inhabiting grass-lands and

SOME BIRDS OF THE AIR AND OPEN SPACES

195

cultivation paddocks. It is a migratory species, usually arriving in south-
eastern Australia during August or September, departing about February,
It spends much of its time on the ground, but frequently perches on fences
and stumps, or in dead trees. Usually when flushed it will sing as it flies
away. It is one of our finest songsters, ascending high in the air, singing
as it rises or while hovering with trembling wings ; it then suddenly
descends, uttering a chuckling sound as it drops. Food: insects of various
kinds. The plumage of the male during the breeding-season is much
darker ; the female is considerably smaller than the male.

Nest . — A cup-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses ; lined with
softer materials. Built in a depression in the ground, and usually placed
near a tuft of grass or a low shrub.

Eggs . — Three or four, salmon-pink, marked all over with pinkish-
red markings, with a well-defined zone at the larger end. Breeding-season :
September to December, January, or February.

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

196

PLATE XXV 111

BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

1. Black-ringed Finch Steganopleura annulosa Gould

Steg-an-o-pleur-a — Gk, steganos, covered; Gk, pleura , side: an-nu-lo-sa
— L., annul osus, ringed.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes. — Also called Black-rumped Double-bar. Usually in pairs or
flocks, frequenting grass-lands bordering watercourses. It is generally
seen in tall grass or low thickets It has a few notes which are uttered
in an undertone. Food : seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants.

Nest . — A bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses; lined
with finer materials. Generally placed in an exposed situation in a low
bush.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: February to June, and
July to December.

2. Banded Finch Steganopleura bichenovii Vigors and Horsfield
biclienovii — Bicheno, a secretary of the Linnean Society, London, 1826.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia to New South Wales.

Notes . — Also called Double-bar, White-rumped Double-bar, White-
rumped Banded Finch, Owl-faced Finch, and Bicheno’s Finch. Usually
in pairs or flocks, frequenting grass-lands bordering watercourses and
plains, particularly those intersected with low scrubby bushes. It is a
friendly bird and is generally seen feeding on the seeds of grasses and
other plants, and also on figs and berries. Its song is very like that of
the Black-ringed Finch.

Nest . — A bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses; lined
with feathers and other soft materials. Generally built in a small bush
or in tall grass.

Eggs . — Four to eight, white. Breeding-season: under normal con-
ditions, July to December.

3. Zebra Finch Tceniopygia castanotis Gould — 3A. Female
Tcen-i-o-pyg-i-a — Gk, tainia, band ; Gk, pyge , rump, tail : cas-tan-ot'-is —
Gk, castanon, chestnut; Gk, otos, genitive of ous, ear.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

197

Notes. — Also called Chestnut-eared Finch. Usually in pairs or flocks,
frequenting grass-lands bordering watercourses and plains intersected with
scrub ; also common in partly cleared and cultivated lands. It is nomadic
in habits, and spends much of its time on the ground feeding chiefly on
the seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants. Its song is a quaint soft trill,
somewhat like a tune played on a toy musical-box.

Nest. — A bottle-shaped structure, built on its side, composed of dried
grasses and soft plant-stalks; lined with feathers and other soft materials.
Generally placed in a low bush, in vines or shrubs growing in gardens, in
hollow limbs or holes in trees, in houses or sheds, and even in rabbit
burrows.

Eggs . — Four to eight, faint bluish-white. Breeding-season : under
normal conditions, August to December.

4. Painted Finch Cayleyna picta Gould

Cayleyna — N. W. Cayley, the author of this book: pic-ta — L., pictus ,
painted.

Distribution. — Mid-western and north-western Australia, Northern
Territory, central Australia, and north-western Queensland (Cloncurry
Range).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting stony hillsides
where spinifex flourishes or grass-lands bordering watercourses. It has
no song, but utters a pleasing twitter when flushed. It spends much of
its time on the ground, searching for the seeds of grasses and other plants.

Nest . — A flimsy, bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses,
chiefly spinifex stems ; lined with plant down. Generally placed in a
natural cavity near the top of a clump of spinifex, or in a low bush.

Eggs. — Four or five, white. Breeding-season: in any month from
April to October or December.

5. Red-browed Finch ZEgintha temporalis Latham

Z E-gin -tha — Gk, aigintha, a kind of bird: tem-por-a-lis — L., temporalis ,
templed.

Distribution. — Eastern Australia, from northern Queensland to South
Australia.

Notes. — Also called Redhead, Waxbill, Sydney Waxbill, Redbill, and
Temporal Finch. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting alike grass-lands,
partly cleared and cultivated lands, open forest, and the fringes of scrub-
lands. It is a common species and abundant in the neighbourhood of towns
and cities. It spends much of its time on the ground, feeding on the seeds
of grasses and herbaceous plants. It has no song, but utters a plaintive
twitter when flushed or when in flight.

Nest * — A bulky, bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried and green
grasses; lined with feathers and fine grasses. Generally placed in a small
tree or bush, frequently in one entangled with vines.

Eggs. — Five to eight, white. Breeding-season : September to January.

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

198

6. Star Finch Bathilda ruficauda Gould

Bath-il'-da — from a girl's name (Fr.), relation or sister of Prince Lucien
Bonaparte: ru-fi-caud'-a — L., rufus, red; L., cauda, tail.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, as far south as New South Wales
on the east and the Coongan River on the west.

Notes. — Also called Red-faced Finch and Red-tailed Finch. Usually
in pairs or flocks, frequenting chiefly grass-lands bordering watercourses.
It is generally seen on the ground searching for the seeds of grasses and
other plants. It has a feeble call-note, somewhat like that of the Grey-
breasted Silver-eye.

Nest. — A bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses; lined
with fine grasses and feathers. Generally placed in a low tree or a bush.

Eggs . — Three to five, white. Breeding-season: probably September
to January.

7. Blue-faced Finch Erythura trie hr oa Kittlitz

E-ryth-ur-a — Gk, erythos, red; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail: tri-chro’-a — Gk,
tri, three ; Gk, chroa , colour.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Cape York to Cairns district) ;
also occurs in the Molucca Islands, New Guinea, Solomon Islands, New
Hebrides, Loyalty Islands, Caroline Islands, and Bismarck Archipelago.

Notes. — Also called Tricoloured Parrot-finch. Only four records are
known of the occurrence of this Finch in Australia. Probably these
records are of stragglers as this species has not otherwise been observed.
In the islands they are plentiful, and congregate in pairs or flocks, and
nest in the gardens of the settlers and natives.

Nest . — A neat, rounded structure, with a small entrance at the side,
composed of fibre or grass ; lined with soft materials. Generally placed
in shrubs or in mango trees.

Eggs. — Three to six, white. Breeding-season : not recorded.

8. Plum-headed Finch Aidemosyne modesta Gould

Ai-de-mos -y-ne — Gk, aidemosyne, modesty : mod-est'-a — L., modestus,
modest.

Distribution. — From Queensland to Victoria.

Notes . — Also called Modest Finch, Cherry Finch, Plain-coloured
Finch, and Diadem Finch. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting
grass-lands and the open areas bordering watercourses. It is generally
seen feeding either on or near the ground on the seeds of grasses and
other plants. The female is much duller in coloration than the male, and
does not possess the blackish chin.

Nest . — A bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses ; lined
with feathers. Generally built in tall grass, among thistles, or in a low
bush.

Eggs. — Five to seven, white. Breeding-season : September to
January.

Plate XXVIII

BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

199

9. Diamond Sparrow Zonceginthus guttatus Shaw
Zon-ce-ginth'-us — L., zona, band; Gk, aigintha, a kind of bird: gut-td-tus
— L., guttatus , spotted.

Distribution . — From southern Queensland to Victoria and South
Australia.

Notes. — Also called Spotted-sided Finch, Diamond Firetail, and Java
Sparrow. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting open spaces and
grass-lands. It is an attractive bird and passes most of its time on the
ground, where it feeds on the seeds of grasses and other plants. Its call-
note is a plaintive long-drawn-out “Kweet.”

Nest.— A long, bottle-shaped structure, placed on its side, composed
of dried grasses ; lined with finer grasses. Generally built in a bush or
tree in thick foliage, sometimes in the outer loose material of the nest of
an Eagle.

Eggs. — Four to seven, white. Breeding-season: August to December
or January.

10. Yellow-tailed Finch Donacola flaviprymna Gould
Do-nac-o-la — Gk, donax, donacos, reed; L., colere , to inhabit: fldv-ir
prym-na — L., flavus, yellow ; Gk, prymnos , hindmost.

Distribution . — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-rumped Finch. Usually in pairs or flocks,
frequenting chiefly the tall cane-grass growing on the margins of swamps
and rivers. It is mostly an inland dweller, but in times of drought visits
the coastal districts. Food: seeds of grasses and other plants.

Nest. — A large, bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses;
lined with finer grasses and a few feathers. Generally built in tall grass
or a low bush.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: probably July to
January.

11. Pictorella Finch Donacola pectoralis Gould
pec-tor-a-lis — L., pectoralis, breasted.

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes .—Also called White-breasted Finch. Usually in pairs or flocks,
frequenting grass-lands bordering watercourses and open areas. It is
generally seen on or near the ground, feeding on the seeds of grasses and
other plants. It has a feeble call-note, “Chip, chip, chip.”

Nest. — A large, bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grass-
stems. Generally built in a tussock of grass.

Eggs. — Four to six, white. Breeding-season: July to December, and
often as late as March and April.

12. Chestnut-breasted Finch Donacola castaneothorax Gould
cas-tan-e-o-tho-rax — L., castaneus, chestnut ; Gk, thorax , chest.

Distribution . — Tropical northern Australia to New South Wales.

200

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Also called Chestnut Finch, Bullfinch, Barley-bird, and
Barley Sparrow. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting reed-beds and
grass-lands, chiefly of the coastal districts. It is generally seen near or on
the ground, feeding on the seeds of grasses and other plants. During the
late autumn and winter months, when it congregates in large flocks, it does
considerable damage to crops.

Nest. — A bulky, oval structure, with a long spout-like entrance, com-
posed of dried grasses, plant-stalks, and tendrils ; lined with finer grasses
and other soft materials. Generally placed in a low bush, often one
entangled with vines, in a tuft of tall grass, or among a growth of tall
weeds.

Eggs. — Four to eight, white. Breeding-season: usually July to
December, often as late as April.

13. Gouldian Finch Poephila gouldice Gould — 13A. Female. 13B.

Red-headed phase (male).

Po-e-pJnl-a — Gk, poe, grass ; Gk, philos, fond of : gouldice— in honour of
the wife of John Gould.

Distribution . — Tropical northern Australia.

N otes. — Also called Painted Finch and Purple-breasted Finch.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting open country, dry ridges where
spinifex flourishes, or grass-lands bordering watercourses. It usually
feeds on or near the ground on the seeds of grasses and other plants, often
far from water, which it visits at dusk. There is a phase with a golden
yellow head as well as the two pictured.

Nest. — A bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses; placed
in a variety of situations— in tall grass, bush, a small tree, or in the hollow
limb of a tree.

Eggs. — Five to eight, white. Breeding-season : August to December,
and some seasons as late as March, April, and May.

14. Masked Finch Poephila personata Gould
per-sd-na-ta — L., personatus, masked.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting grass-lands bordering
watercourses. It is generally seen feeding either on or near the ground,
principally on the seeds of grasses and other plants. When in flight it
utters a feeble call-note, “Twit-twit-twit, 1 ” and at other times a drawn-out,
mournful note.

Nest. — A bulky, bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses ;
lined with feathers and small pieces of charcoal about the size o f its eggs.
Generally built in grass, near or upon the ground, sometimes in a small
tree or bush.

Eggs. — Five or six, white, which soon become discoloured through
contact with pieces of charcoal. Breeding-season: August to December,
and often as late as April, May, and June.

PLAIN COUNTRY Photo. A. J. Campbell

DESERT COUNTRY Photo. Dr Brooke Nicholls

BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

201

15. Black-throated Finch Poephila cincta Gould
cinc-ta — L., cinctus, banded.

Distribution. — Queensland and New South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Parson Finch and Black-throat. Usually in pairs
or flocks, frequenting grass-lands bordering watercourses and open coun-
try. It is very similar in habits to the Masked Finch. Food: seeds of
grasses and other plants.

Nest. — A bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses; lined
with feathers. Generally built in tall grass, a low bush, or a small tree.

Eggs. — Five to nine, white. Breeding-season : August to December.

16. Black-tailed Finch Poephila atropygialis Diggles
a-tro-pyg-i-a-lis — L., ater, black; Gk, pyge , rump, tail.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (Normanton).

Notes. — Also called Diggles’ Finch and Black-rumped Finch. It is
similar in habits and economy to the Black-throated Finch.

Nest. — A bulky, flask-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses,
twigs, and leaves of small plants; lined with fine hair-like seed-tops of
grasses. Generally built in tall grass, a bush, or in a pandanus palm-tree.

Eggs. — Six to nine, white, often tinged with faint green. Breeding-
season: August to January, and often as late as April or even June.

17. Long-tailed Finch Poephila acuticauda Gould
ac-u'-ti-caud'-a — L., acutus, sharp; L., cauda, tail

Distribution. — North-western Australia and Northern Territory.

Notes. — Also called Long-tailed Grass-finch, frequenting open country
and grass-lands bordering watercourses. It is very similar in habits and
economy to the Black-throated Finch. A red-billed variety of this Finch
inhabits the Northern Territory.

Nest. — A bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses; lined
with a few feathers. Generally built in tall grass, in a low bush or tree,
or in a pandanus palm-tree.

Eggs. — Five or six, white. Breeding-season: September to January,
and earlier or later according to the conditions of the season and the
rainfall.

18. Crimson Finch Neochmia phaeton Hombron and Jacquinot

— 18A. Female

Ne-ocli-mi-a — Gk, neochmia, change: pha-et-on — Gk, phaethon, shining.

Distribution. — Tropical northern Australia (except Cape York
Peninsula).

Notes . — Also called Blood Finch. Usually in pairs or flocks, fre-
quenting grass-lands bordering watercourses. It is generally seen in cane
grass and pandanus palm-trees; feeds on the seeds of grasses and other
plants, also on termites.

202

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest . — A bulky, bottle-shaped structure, composed of dried grasses,
bark, and leaves ; lined with grass, leaves, and feathers, and sometimes
fur. Generally built in tall grass, in a bush, or in a pandanus palm-
tree.

Eggs —Five to eight, white. Breeding-season : August to December,
and often as late as March, April, and May.

19. Pale Crimson Finch Neochmia albiventer Mathews — 19A. Female
d-bi-veri-tcr — L., albus, white; L., venter , belly.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (the middle of Cape York
Peninsula).

Notes.— Also called White-bellied Crimson Finch. Usually in pairs
or flocks, frequenting tall grass and pandanus palm-trees bordering water-
courses and swamps. It is similar in habits to the Crimson Finch, boo .
seeds of grasses and other plants, also termites, which it catches while on
the wing.

Nest .—Similar to that of the Crimson Finch.

Eggs. — Like those of the Crimson Finch, the breeding-period likewise.

20. Golden-headed Fantail-warbler Cisticola exilis Vigors and Hors-

fi e ld — 20A. Male in winter plumage.

Cis-tic-o-la — L., cistus, a plant; L., colere , to inhabit: ex -l -lis L., exilis,
slender.

Distribution. — Australia (except the south-western portion) , Tas-
mania, and King Island ; also occurs in New Guinea, the Molucca Islands,
Philippine Islands, Formosa, and south-eastern Asia.

Notes. — Also called Grass-warbler, Fantail-warbler, Exiled Warbler,
Corn-bird, and Barley-bird. Usually in pairs, frequenting reed-beds
swampy areas, heath-lands, and standing grain-crops. It has an animated
but squeaky song, generally uttered while perched near the top of a reed,
or on a high twig. Food : insects of various kinds.

Nest —A small, dome-shaped structure with an entrance near the top,
composed of very fine grasses, coated with plant down and cobwebs woven
together; often several leaves are carefully worked on to the outer portion
of the structure ; lined with plant down. Generally built among tall grass,
in a tuft of rushes, in a plant sheltered by grass, and frequently in cul-
tivated crops.

Eggs. Three or four, bluish-green, spotted and blotched with

reddish-brown or purplish-brown markings, chiefly on the larger end,
where a zone is often formed. Breeding-season : October to February.

21. Little Grass-bird Megalurus gramineus Gould
Meg-al-ur'-us — Gk, megas ( megalos ), large; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail: gram-
in'-e-us— L., gramineus, grassy.

Distribution. — Extra-tropical Australia, from north-western Australia
to Tasmania.

BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

203

Notes. — Also called Reed-warbler and Marsh-warbler. Usually in
pairs, frequenting reed-beds and rank grass-lands. It is extremely shy
generally keeping among the reeds. Its call-note is a long-drawn-out,
plaintive whistle, repeated a few times. Food : insects and various seeds.

Nest. — An oval-shaped structure with an entrance at the top, com-
posed of coarse grasses and aquatic plants; lined with feathers, a few
of which protrude from the opening. Generally built in a tussock of long
rushes growing in or near water, in a swamp tea-tree, or a mangrove tree.

Eggs.-?— Usually four, pinkish or reddish-white, almost obscured with
freckles of purplish-red, sometimes evenly distributed, at other times
forming a zone on the larger end. Breeding-season : August to January.

22. Tawny Grass-bird Megalurus galactotes Temminck
gal-ac-to -tes — derivation unknown.

Distribution. — From tropical northern Australia to New South Wales.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting reed-beds and rank grass-lands.
It is a shy bird and rarely seen. Its call-note resembles a harsh and
rapidly repeated “Chutch.” Food : insects of various kinds, and seeds.

Nest . — A deep, cup-shaped strtucture, slightly domed or narrow at
the top, composed of dried swamp grasses ; lined with feathers. Generally
built at the base of a tuft of long rushes.

Eggs. — Usually three, reddish-white, freckled all over with purplish-
red markings, which predominate on the larger end. Breeding-season:
October to February.

23. Reed- warbler Acrocephalus australis Gould

Ac-ro-ceph'-al-us — Gk, acros } high; Gk, cephale , head: australis — southern
(Australian).

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Reed-bird, Water-sparrow, and Nightingale.
Usually in pairs, frequenting reed-beds. It is a migrant, generally arriv-
ing in south-eastern Australia during August and departing in March or
April. It is a general favourite and common in most of the ornamental
lakes of parks and gardens. It has a rich, varied, and melodious song,
resembling “Twitchee-twitchee-twitchee-quarty-quarty-quarty,” which is
frequently poured forth at intervals throughout the day and night. Food:
insects of various kinds and minute freshwater molluscs.

Nest. — A deep, cup-shaped structure, slightly narrower at the rim
composed of soft paper-like sheaths of reeds and dead aquatic plants,
firmly woven round the stems of the reeds between which it is placed;
lined with fine dried grasses.

Eggs. — Three or four, varying from faint bluish-white or greyish-
white to pale yellowish-brown, freckled and spotted with reddish and light
brown and lavender markings. Breeding-season: September to February.

204

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

24. Brown Quail Synoicus australis Latham

Syn-oic-us — Gk, synoicus , living together: australis — southern (Aus-
tralian).

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; introduced into
New Zealand ; also occurs in the Molucca Islands, New Guinea, and New
Britain.

Notes. — Also called Swamp Quail and Partridge Quail. Usually in
coveys or flocks, frequenting grass-lands and swampy localities. It is
nomadic in habits, its movements from one locality to another being regu-
lated by the supply of food. Food : seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants,
many of the latter being noxious weeds ; also insects and their larvae. It
has a loud whistle-like note, usually uttered at daybreak and at dusk.

Nest . — A depression in the ground, lined with dried grasses, and
placed in the shelter of a tuft of grass or rushes.

Eggs. — Seven to eleven, dull white or a faint bluish-white, usually
finely freckled with olive or light brown markings. When the eggs are
newly laid the markings may be removed by moisture. Breeding-season:
October to February, and often in March, April, and May.

25. Swamp Quail Synoicus ypsilophorus Bose

yps-il-oph'-or-us — bearing the Greek letter upsilon (shape of English Y
or V).

Distribution . — South-eastern Australia and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Silver Quail and Tasmanian Quail. Usually in
coveys or small flocks, frequenting swampy grass-lands. It is local in
habits and is generally found in the coastal districts. Its call-note is much
deeper than that of the Brown Quail. Food: seeds of grasses and other
plants ; also insects of various kinds.

Nest. — Similar to that of the Brown Quail.

Eggs. — Six to twelve, yellowish-white, thickly covered with spots of
greenish-brown. Breeding-season: November to February, or March or
April.

26. King Quail Excalf act oria chinensis Linne — 26A. Female
Ex-cal-fac-tor'-i-a — L., excalfactorius, warming : chinensis — Chinese.

Distribution . — Northern, eastern, and southern Australia; also occurs
in India, China, the Philippines, and Sumatra, to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Chestnut-bellied Quail, Least Quail, Dwarf
Quail, and Swamp Quail. Usually in coveys and small flocks, frequenting
swampy grass-lands. It is local in habits in New South Wales, and chiefly
nomadic in southern Australia. It has a mournful call-note, which it

BIRDS OF THE REED-BEDS AND GRASS-LANDS

205

utters at intervals during the night and at daybreak. Food: seeds of
grasses and other plants, and insects of various kinds.

Nest . — A depression in the ground, lined with dried grasses, and
sheltered by a tuft of grass or herbage.

Eggs . — Usually four, pale brown, more or less covered with dots,
spots, and small irregular-shaped markings of blackish-brown. Breeding-
season : in eastern Australia from September to March.

p

206

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XXIX

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

1. Nankeen Kestrel Falco cenchroides Vigors and Horsfield
FaT-co — L., falco , falcon : cen-chrot -dies — Gk, cenchris, speckled hawk ;
- oides , from Gk, eidos, form = like.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; accidental to New
Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Windhover, Mosquito-hawk, and Sparrow-hawk.
Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open and lightly timbered country.
It is a common and useful species, being numerous in cultivated areas,
where it does valuable service in helping to keep in check many pests. It
is generally observed skimming about or hovering over paddocks, crops,
and grass-lands, every now and again darting down to capture its prey. It
has a peculiar chattering call which is often uttered in an apparently
excited manner. Food : grasshoppers, crickets, and other insects, small
reptiles, rodents, and the young of ground-breeding birds.

Nest. — In a hollow limb of a tree or crevice in a rock; sometimes a
deserted nest of a Crow or Raven is used.

Eggs. — Four or five, buff, covered with reddish-brown markings,
which in some eggs are very pale in colour. Breeding-season : August to
November or December.

2. Collared Sparrow-hawk Accipiter cirrocephalus Vieillot
Ac-cip’-it-er — L., accipiter, hawk: cir-ro-cepK-al-us — Gk, cirros, tawny;
Gk, cephale, head.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in New
Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Sparrow-hawk and Chicken-hawk. Usually
singly or in pairs, frequenting open and lightly timbered country. It is
generally observed skimming above the surface of the ground or in and
about timbered areas. During flight it is remarkably quick in its move-
ments, and fearless when in pursuit of its prey. Its food consists almost
entirely of small birds. The female is considerably larger than the male.

Nest. — A platform composed of thin twigs, either dead or green, and
lined with leaves. Generally placed on a thin forked limb of a tall tree.
Occasionally a deserted nest of a Whistling Eagle is used.

Eggs. — Two to four, dull white or bluish-white, sometimes spotted or
blotched with reddish-brown or lavender markings. Breeding-season:
September to December (east); July (west).

Plate XXIX

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

dr

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

307

3. Little Falcon Falco longipennis Swainson
lon-gi-pen'-nis — L., longus, long ; L., penna, feather.

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called White-fronted Falcon, Duck-hawk, and Austra-
lian Hobby. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open and lightly
timbered country, or mountain ranges. It is more courageous in dispo-
sition and stronger on the wing in proportion to its size than any other
species of Australian Hawk. Its food consists chiefly of small birds,
caught on the wing ; also large insects.

Nest. — A loosely made structure of sticks and twigs, lined with soft
bark ; placed in the topmost branches of a tall tree. Sometimes the deserted
nest of another species is used, in which case it is relined with bark.

Eggs. — Three, pale pinkish or buffy- white, almost hidden with reddish-
brown markings, mostly thicker and heavier at the larger end. Breeding-
season: September to December in eastern Australia.

4. Grey Falcon Falco hypoleucus Gould
hy-po-leuc-us — Gk, hypo, under; Gk, leucos, white.

Distribution . — Australia, chiefly the inland areas.

Notes . — Also called Blue Hawk and Smoke Hawk. Usually singly
or in pairs, frequenting open and lightly timbered country or mountain
ranges. It is a rare species, being less courageous in disposition and
slower on the wing than the other Falcons. Its food consists of small
birds, reptiles, and small mammals.

Nest . — A large and loosely built structure, composed of sticks, and
lined with soft bark or wool. Generally placed in the thin branches near
the top of a tall tree.

Eggs . — Two to four, buff or buffy-white, covered with small spots
and blotches of rusty-red. Breeding-season : July to October.

5. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Tunstall
per-e-gn-nus — L., peregrinus , wandering.

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Notes . — Also called Black-cheeked Falcon. Usually singly or in pairs,
frequenting alike inland and coastal districts, but showing a decided pre-
ference for heavily timbered and rugged mountainous country. It is a
bold and fearless bird, and in flight is easily the strongest and swiftest
of all Australian Hawks. It preys upon various species of birds, such
as Ducks and the smaller Parrots, all of which are killed from a blow with
the hind claw delivered while making a lightning-like swoop.

Nest . — Usually in a crevice of a precipitous rocky cliff ; sometimes in
a hollow limb of a tree.

208

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Eggs. — Two or three, buff, covered all over with reddish-brown
markings ; some have the markings more numerous about the centre
of the eggs. Breeding-season: August to November.

6. Black Falcon Fcilco subnig er Gray
sub-m-ger — L., subnig er , somewhat black.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open and lightly
timbered country, chiefly of the inland districts. Its flight is remarkably
swift and it also possesses wonderful powers of endurance while on the
wing. It preys on several species of Quail, the movements of which are
followed by this Falcon. Besides Quail its food consists of larger birds
inhabiting open areas, which it procures in the same manner as the other
Falcons.

Nest. — A platform composed of sticks; generally a deserted nest of
a Crow or another species of Hawk is used.

Eggs. — Three or four, buff, closely sprinkled with spots of reddish-
brown, and a few purplish-brown markings. Breeding-season : September
to December.

7. Brown Hawk Falco berigora Vigors and Horsfield
berigora — the native name of this bird.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Cackling Hawk. Usually singly or in pairs, fre-
quenting open and lightly timbered country. It is generally seen flying
over open spaces, or perched upon telegraph posts and wires or fences.
It feeds upon mice, beetles, caterpillars, and small birds ; it catches birds
by pouncing upon them instead of taking them on the wing. In Western
Australia this species is more reddish in coloration.

Nest . — A platform composed of sticks and lined with bark; usually
placed in a forked branch near the top of a tall tree. Sometimes a deserted
nest of a Crow or another species of Hawk is used.

Eggs. — Two to four, buff, generally well covered with reddish-brown
blotches ; some have a well-defined zone at the larger end, whereas others
have only a few dots of reddish-brown. Breeding-season: June to
November, occasionally later.

3. Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaris Latham
El'-an-us — Gk, elanos, kite: ax-ill-a-ris — L., axillaris, shouldered.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open and lightly
timbered country in coastal areas. It appears to be migratory in habits,
generally arriving in the south and south-eastern districts during May,
departing about November. It is frequently seen in the neighbourhood
of farms, either flying over paddocks and crops or else perched on fences.

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

209

stumps, or dead trees. Food : mice, lizards, grasshoppers, and other large
insects.

Nest. — A platform composed of sticks and lined with leaves ; often a
deserted nest of a Crow or Magpie is used.

Eggs. — Usually three, whitish, coarsely blotched with reddish-brown
markings; some eggs have the markings confined to the larger end, in
others they are evenly distributed. Breeding-season: June to November.

9. Letter-winged Kite Elanus scriptus Gould
scrip* -tus — L., scriptus, written.

Distribution. — Southern and western Queensland, New South Wales,
Victoria, South Australia, and central Australia.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, occasionally in flocks, frequenting
open and lightly timbered country of the inland areas. It is similar in
habits and economy to the Black-shouldered Kite. In central and western
Queensland this species congregates in flocks to feed on native rats,
irruptions of which occur periodically.

Nest. — A platform composed of fine sticks and lined with leaves
and fur.

Eggs. — Three or four, bluish-white, densely blotched with brown and
blood red markings, sometimes about the larger end only. Breeding-
season: August to November.

10. Grey Goshawk Astur novce-hollandice Gmelin
As-tur — L., astur, goshawk: novce-hollandice — of New Holland.

Distribution. — Northern, eastern, and southern Australia, and Tas-
mania; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting chiefly the thickly
timbered coastal districts and inland forest country. It attacks small birds
and also feeds on large insects such as grasshoppers, cicadas, and beetles.
There are two forms of this species, a white and a grey, which have been
known to mate.

Nest. — A large structure, composed of sticks, and lined with leaves;
generally placed among the topmost branches of a tall tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, faint bluish-white; some eggs have a few brown
markings about the larger end. Breeding-season: August to December.

11. Goshawk Astur fasciatus Vigors and Horsfield
fas-ci-a-tus — L., fasciatus , banded.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
Flores, Timor to New Guinea, and New Caledonia.

Notes. — Also called Chicken-hawk. Usually singly or in pairs, fre-
quenting heavily timbered districts, the margins of watercourses, and
scrub-lands. It is a wary species, dreaded by all the smaller birds ;
procures its food more by stealth than by chase. The food of this species

210

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

consists of birds and their young. The female is considerably larger
than the male.

Nest. — A small, flat structure, composed of sticks, and lined with
leaves. Placed among the topmost branches or on a horizontal fork of a
tree ; in the interior districts it selects low trees, but resorts to taller ones
in the coastal areas.

Eggs. — Two to four, bluish-white, sometimes spotted and blotched
with reddish-brown or lavender markings. Breeding-season : September
to January.

12. Red Goshawk Erythrotriorchis radiatus Latham

E-ryth' -ro-tri-orch’ -is — Gk, erythros, red; Gk, triorchus, bird of prey:
rad-i-a-tus — L., radiatus, barred.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Australia, from Kimberley
(north-western Australia) to New South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Rufous-bellied Buzzard. It is a rare species,
usually seen singly or in pairs, frequenting the margins of swamps and
belts of timber bordering open country. Food: birds, reptiles, and small
mammals.

Nest. — A large structure, composed of sticks, and lined with leaves.
Placed among the branches of a tall tree.

Eggs. — Two, bluish-white, occasionally faintly smeared with pale
brown or lavender markings. Breeding-season: August to November.

13. Spotted Harrier Circus assimilis Jardine and Selby
Cir-cus — Gk, circos, hawk: as-sim -i-lis — L., assimilis, similar.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs from
the Celebes to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Spotted Swamp-hawk and Jardine’s Harrier.
Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open country generally. It is
•mostly observed flying slowly above open plains, swamps, and cultivated
lands; procures its food both on the wing and on the ground. Food:
birds, reptiles, and small mammals.

Nest. — A loosely constructed platform, composed of sticks, and lined
with leaves ; usually well concealed in a bushy tree.

Eggs. — Usually three, sometimes four, bluish-white, without gloss,
the inside of the shell green. Breeding-season : August to October.

14. Swamp-harrier Circus approximans Peale
ap-prox’-i-mans — L., approximans, approaching.

Distribution.-— Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in New
Caledonia, Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, New Zealand, and Fiji.

Notes. — Also called Gould’s Harrier, Allied Harrier, Swamp-hawk,
Wheat-hawk, and Kahu. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting swamps,

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

21 J

reed-beds, and cultivated lands. It is exceptionally bold and is mostly
observed flying slowly over, or just clear of, the tops of the reeds and
crops. Food: birds (chiefly waterfowl) and small mammals.

Nest. — A bulky platform, composed of sticks, reeds, weeds, and long
grasses. Placed on the ground among long rushes growing in a swamp or
in a standing crop.

Eggs . — Three to five, bluish-white, without gloss. Breeding-season:
September to January.

212

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XXX

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

1. Crested Hawk Baza subcristata Gould

Baz-a — N.L., baza, hawk: sub-cns-ta-ta — sub as prefix, often = slightly;
L., cristatus, crested.

Distribution . — Northern and eastern Australia.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting the margins of scrubs
and belts of timber bordering rivers and plains. It is a harmless, inoffen-
sive species, feeding chiefly on insects and their larvae, or occasionally on
dead animals. When in flight it has a peculiar habit of “tumbling,” utter-
ing the while a clear whistling cry unlike that of any other Australian
species of Hawk.

Nest . — A slightly cupped structure, composed of sticks and twigs;
lined with leaves. Generally placed on a thin horizontal branch, and
supported by a few upright leafy twigs ; built at heights up to 60 feet from
the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, uniform faint bluish-white, unless nest-stained.
Breeding-season : October to December.

2. Black-breasted Buzzard Hamirostra melanosterna Gould
Hdm-i-ros-tra — L., Hamas, hook ; L., rostrum, bill : mel-an-o-ster-na —
Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, sternon, breast.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Queensland, Northern Territory,
north-western Australia, and South Australia.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting open country, and
nesting in belts of timber growing on plains or along watercourses. It
is generally seen soaring high in the air, much after the manner of the
Wedge-tailed Eagle. Except when visiting its nest, it seldom frequents
trees, but generally rests on the ground. There is considerable variation
in the plumage coloration of this species; some birds have little, or no,
black on the breast. The female is larger and more conspicuously
coloured than the male. Food: reptiles (chiefly lizards) and animals
(mostly rabbits) ; it has the singular habit of robbing the nests of Emus
and Bustards, and breaking the eggs with a stone grasped in its talons.

Nest . — A large, flat structure, composed of sticks; lined with leaves.
Usually placed on a horizontal fork of a tree.

Eggs. — Usually two, white to buff, boldly blotched with reddish-
purple and lavender markings. Breeding-season: September to December.

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

213

3. Osprey Pandion halicetus Linne

Pan-di-on — a mythical King of Athens, father of Procne ( progne , swal-
low) and Philomela (nightingale) ; he was changed into an osprey: Jial-i-
a-et-us — Gk, hals, sea; Gk, cetos, eagle.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania (cosmopolitan, except
southern South America and the Pacific Islands).

Notes. — Also called White-headed Osprey and Fish-hawk. Usually
singly or in pairs, frequenting the borders of rivers, lakes, inlets of the
sea, and small islands lying off the coast. Its food consists almost entirely
of living fish, caught by plunging from above and grasping them with
its talons.

Nest. — A large and bulky structure, composed of sticks; lined with
seaweed and occasionally with palm-leaves. Generally placed on a rock
overlooking the sea, but sometimes in trees.

Eggs. — Two or three, rarely four, buff, heavily blotched at the larger
end with large reddish-purple markings, the remainder of the surface
being sparingly spotted with lavender and reddish-brown markings.
Breeding-season : May to September.

4. Fork-tailed Kite Milvus migrans Boddaert

Mil'-vus — L., milvus , kite: mi -grans — L., migrans , wandering.

Distribution . — Australia generally; also occurs in Europe, north-
western Africa, and Asia to the Malay Archipelago.

Notes . — Also called Black Kite and Allied Kite. Usually in pairs or
flocks, frequenting the inland districts chiefly. It is a common species
about homesteads and camps, and is a well-known scavenger, its food
consists of small mammals, reptiles, and grasshoppers; also offal and
garbage.

Nest. — A small, flat, compact structure, composed of sticks; lined
with wool or fur. Generally placed in the main fork of a tree or near
the end of a horizontal branch, at heights up to 30 feet or more from the
ground. Old nests are often relined and used year after year.

Eggs. — Two or three, dull white, more or less marked with spots,
blotches, short wavy streaks, or hair-like lines of umber or reddish-brown.
Some have the markings chiefly around the larger end, others have paler
or clouded markings. Breeding-season: September to January (south);
May to July (north).

5. Square-tailed Kite Lophoictinia isura Gould

Lopli -o-ic-tin -i-a — Gk, lophos , crest; Gk, ictinos, kite: Is-ur-a — Gk, isos,
equal, square; Gk, ura ( oura ), tail.

Distribution. — Australia generally, though rare in southern Australia.
Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting alike the coastal
districts and the inland plains. It shows a marked preference for the
smaller watercourses, where it breeds in the adjoining belts of timber.
Its food consists mostly of birds, usually young ones taken from nests.

214

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest. — A large structure, composed of sticks, and lined with leaves ;
generally placed in a tree at various heights from the ground. Old nests
of other species of Hawks are also used.

Eggs. — Two or three, white or buff y- white, boldly spotted with
reddish-brown and lavender markings. Breeding-season : August to
November.

6. Red-backed Sea Eagle Haliastur Indus Boddaert
Hal-i-as -tur — Gk, hals, sea; L., astur , goshawk: indus — Indian.

Distribution . — Northern Australia and eastern Australia to as far
south as the Hunter River (New South Wales) ; also occurs in India,
Burma to the Philippine Islands, New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands.

Notes. — Also called White-headed Sea Eagle, Rufous-backed Sea
Eagle, Salmon-hawk, and Rufous-backed Fish-hawk. Usually singly or
in pairs, frequenting inlets and estuaries and islands lying off the coast,
but particularly mangrove swamps. Its food consists chiefly of fish, crabs,
sea-snakes, and cuttle-fish. Its call-note is a curiously modulated
“Pee-ah-h-h,” the last syllable rather drawn out and uttered in a tremulous
manner.

Nest . — A large structure, composed of twigs and sticks; lined with
fine bark, grass, or leaves, and sometimes with lichen ; occasionally decor-
ated on the sides with streamers of bleached seaweed. Generally placed
near the top of a large mangrove tree or a tall tree growing on an island.

Eggs. — Usually two, dull white or bluish-white, sparingly marked, but
more so at the larger end, with spots or blotches or with fine streaks and
wavy lines of chestnut or brown. Breeding-season: April or May to
September (north) ; August to October (east).

7. Whistling Eagle Haliastur sphenurus Vieillot
sphen-ur-us — Gk, sphen, wedge; Gk, lira {our a), tail.

Distribution. — Australia generally; also occurs in New Guinea and
New Caledonia.

Notes. — Also called Whistling Hawk. Usually in pairs, frequenting
alike coastal and inland districts. Its flight is buoyant and easy; this
species often soars to a great height, uttering a shrill whistling cry audible
at a distance of half a mile or more. In the coastal districts it is a great
scavenger, feeding upon dead fish and offal left by the tides. It also feeds
on small mammals, birds, lizards, carrion, and the larvae of insects; in
many districts rabbits form the chief item of its diet.

Nest . — A large, rather flat structure, composed of sticks, and lined
with leaves. Generally placed on a horizontal branch of a tall tree.

Eggs . — Two or three, white or bluish-white, either sparsely spotted
with lavender markings or with large blotches of reddish-brown. Breeding-
season : practically throughout the year.

Plate XXX

12 3 4 5 6 7 6 9 lO //

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

%

DIURNAL BIRDS OF PREY

215

8. Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides Gould

Hi'-er-a-a-et-us — Gk, hierax, acos, hawk ; Gk, aetos, eagle : morph-noid'-
es — Gk, morphnos, kind of eagle; -oides from Gk, eidos, form == like.

Distribution. — Australia (except the south-western portion) ; also
occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, frequenting chiefly the inland districts
where it shows a preference for country intersected by creeks. It is a
quiet and inoffensive species, in some districts subsisting almost entirely
on rabbits. It also feeds on small mammals, reptiles, carrion, and young
birds. Its call-note is a plaintive piping whistle.

Nest. — A large structure, composed of sticks, and lined with leaves.
Generally placed on a slender forked limb at the top of a tree.

Eggs. — One, sometimes two, bluish-white, sparsely and at times
faintly marked with reddish-brown spots. Breeding-season: August to
November.

9. Wedge-tailed Eagle Uroaetus audax Latham

Ur-o-a-et-us — Gk, ura ( oura ), tail; Gk, aetos, eagle: au-dax — L., audax
bold.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Eagle-hawk — a ridiculous name considering that
it is the largest species of Eagle in the world. It frequents alike timbered
country and plains, and is generally observed singly or in pairs soaring
high in the air as if on motionless wings, but nevertheless travelling
with great rapidity. When in pursuit of its prey the speed of its flight
is astounding, for it darts down as swift as an arrow and rarely misses
its intended victim. It has a bad reputation as a lamb-killer, though
unquestionably it does more good than harm, for it destroys many
thousands of rabbits, to an occasional lamb. The food of the species
consists chiefly of rabbits and small marsupials, also carrion. The average
wing-spread is about 7 feet.

Nest. — A very large structure, composed of sticks, and lined with
soft bark and leaves. Placed in a very large tree and mostly in one that
is isolated or so situated that the sitting bird has an uninterrupted view
of the surrounding country. A nest often measures 8 feet across and
sometimes is almost as deep.

Eggs. — Usually two, occasionally three, white or light buff, often
covered all over with spots or blotches of lavender or dull red, the mark-
ings generally being more noticeable at the larger end. Breeding-season:
usually July to September.

10. White-breasted Sea Eagle Haliceetus leucogaster Gmelin
Hal-i-ce-et-us — Gk, hals, sea ; Gk, aetos, eagle : leuc-o-gas'-ter— Gk, leucos,
white ; Gk, gaster, belly.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania ; also occurs in India, southern
China, and Oceania.

216

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes . — Also called White-bellied Sea Eagle and White-bellied Fish-
hawk. Usually in pairs, frequenting the salt-water rivers, inlets, islands
off the coast, and occasionally inland rivers and lakes. It is generally
observed flying lazily above the foreshores, mud-flats, or sand-spits, search-
ing for offal and carrion left by the tides. It is a most useful scavenger
and rarely destroys domestic animals. The food of this species consists
of various mammals, birds, tortoises, sea-snakes, fish, eels, and the larger
crustaceans. It has a peculiar cackling cry.

Nest . — A large structure, composed of sticks, and lined with leaves.
Generally placed in a tall tree; sometimes on a projecting ledge of rock.
Nests are used for years in succession.

Eggs. — Usually two, white and slightly glossy, green inside, unless
nest-stained. Breeding-season: generally June to October.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

Plate XXXI

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS AND SWAMPS

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

219

PLATE XXXI

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

1. Little Kingfisher Alcyone pusilla Temminck

Al' -cy-d-ne — a daughter of /Eolus, the wind god, who, when her husband
Ceyx was drowned, threw herself into the sea and both were changed by
the gods into kingfishers : pu-sil'-la — L., pusillus , very small.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern Queensland; also
occurs in the Molucca Islands, New Guinea, and Solomon Islands.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting streams in the densest
parts of scrubs, but chiefly small creeks running through mangrove
swamps. Its note is a shrill, piping cry, uttered mostly while on the wing.
Food : small fishes.

Nest. — In a hole in a bank of a creek; sometimes in an old stump.
Eggs. — Usually five, white, rounded and glossy. Breeding-season:
February (Cape York).

2. Azure Kingfisher Alcyone azurea Latham
az-ur-e-a — L., azureus, blue.

Distribution. — Northern, eastern, and southern Australia, and Tas-
mania; also occurs in the Molucca Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Blue Kingfisher, Water Kingfisher, and River
Kingfisher. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting fresh and salt-water
streams. Its flight is swift and it generally keeps close to the surface of
the water as it flies up or down a stream. While in flight it utters a shrill,
piercing call-note. Food : small fishes, crustaceans, and insects.

Nest. — In a hole in a bank of a stream.

Eggs. — Five or six, white, rounded and glossy. Breeding-season:
October to December.

3. Spotted Crake Porzana fluminea Gould

Por-za-na — N.L., porzana , crake: flUm-in-e-a — L., flumineus, belonging
to rivers.

Distribution. — Eastern, southern, and south-western Australia, and
Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Water-crake. Usually singly or in pairs, fre-
quenting marshy localities thickly overgrown with rank herbage or the
reed-lined banks of swamps and streams. It is extremely shy and wary,
keeping to the seclusion of the reeds and herbage. When startled, it
disappears from sight with amazing quickness, and if driven from its
retreat, takes to the water where it soon evades pursuit by swimming and
diving. Food : aquatic insects and the green shoots of aquatic plants.

220

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest. — An open structure, composed of coarse grasses; generally
placed at the base of a tussock of grass or reeds growing in or surrounded
by water.

Eggs. — Four or five, pale stone-brown, tinged with olive, and freckled,
spotted, and blotched with different shades of purplish-brown and grey
markings. Breeding-season : August to January.

4. Marsh Crake Porzana pusilla Pallas
pu-sil'-la — L., pusillus , very small.

Distribution. — Australia (coastal) and Tasmania; also occurs in the
eastern hemisphere, Europe, Africa to Japan and New Guinea, and New
Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Little Crake. Usually singly or in pairs, fre-
quenting swamps and reed or mangrove-lined streams and inlets. It is
timid and wary, rarely leaving the seclusion of its haunts, and is a difficult
species to observe. Although it swims and dives expertly, it prefers to
keep to the shallows, seeking its food while wading. Its call-note is a
sharp “Krek” or ‘‘Crake/’ usually uttered at dusk or at daybreak. Food:
aquatic insects, small freshwater molluscs, and the green shoots of aquatic
plants.

Nest. — A slightly concave structure, composed of dried coarse
grasses and aquatic plants ; generally well concealed, and built in a clump
of reeds or a low bush growing in water.

Eggs. — Five or six, varying from pale brown tinged with olive to
dark olive-brown ; some closely resemble pebbles, others are slightly
covered with streaks of a darker shade of the ground colour. Breeding-
season : October to January.

5. Spotless Crake Porzana plumb ea Gray
plum-be-a — L., plumb eus , leaden.

Distribution.— Eastern and southern Australia, and Tasmania; also
occurs in the Malay Archipelago, Philippine Islands to Tonga, New
Zealand, and Chatham Islands.

Notes. — Also called Leaden Crake, Tabuan Crake, Swamp-rail, Little
Swamp-hen, Pukeko, and Putoto. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting
swamps and the reed-lined margins of streams. It is similar in habits
and economy to the Spotted and Marsh Crakes.

Nest. — An open structure, composed of dried, coarse grass-stalks;
generally built low down in a tussock of grass.

Eggs. — Four or five, sometimes as many as seven, pale creamy-brown,
thickly covered with faint markings of light chestnut-brown. Breeding-
season: September or October to January.

6. Lewin Water-rail Rallus pect oralis Temminck

Rail' -us — N.L., rallus , rail: pec-tor-a-us— L., pectoralis, breasted.

Distribution. — Eastern, southern, and south-western Australia

(coastal), and Tasmania; also occurs in New Guinea.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

221

Notes. — Also called Slate-breasted Rail, Short-toed Rail, and Pectoral
Rail. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting swamps and the reed-lined
margins of streams. It is exceedingly shy and retiring in habits, and
difficult of observation. If flushed, it rarely flies far, but seeks refuge
among the tall grasses. When in flight its long legs hang down, and,
although not web-footed, it swims with great facility and dives if closely
pursued. It utters an alarm note, resembling “Creek” or “Crick,” when
startled. Food: worms, freshwater snails, and insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A shallow, saucer-shaped structure, composed of coarse plant-
stalks and grass-stems, and well concealed among tall rushes, grass, or
aquatic plants.

Eggs. — Three to five, occasionally more, dull white or warm creamy-
white, covered with freckles, streaks, spots, and blotches of purplish-
brown, chestnut-brown, and violet-grey markings. Breeding-season :
August to December.

7. Red-necked Rail Rallina tricolor Gray

Rall-t-na — N.L., rallina , rail: tri-col- or — L., tricolor , three-coloured.

Distribution. — Northern Queensland (coastal) ; also occurs in the
Aru Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Tricoloured Rail. Usually singly or in pairs,
frequenting the dense tropical scrubs bordering creeks or on the sides of
stony ridges. It appears to be migratory, arriving in northern Australia
at the beginning of the wet season. Generally it is shy and difficult to
observe. Its call is a loud shriek, many times repeated, resembling “Kare,
kare, kare,” and another short sharp note like “Tock, tock, tock.” Food:
insects and freshwater animals of various kinds.

Nest. — A hole scooped in the ground, in which a few dead leaves are
placed; generally situated at the foot of a tree.

Eggs. — Four or five, pure white. Breeding-season: January to April.

8. Banded Landrail Hypotcenidia philippensis Linne
Hy'-po-t(B-nid'-i-a — Gk, hypo, under; Gk, tainidion, small band: philip-
pensis — of the Philippine Islands.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in the
Philippine Islands to New Guinea, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.

Notes . — Also called Buff-banded Landrail, Landrail, Painted Rail,
Pectoral Rail, and Corn-crake. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting
scrub and rank herbage in swampy localities, also the margins of streams
and cultivation paddocks. It is shy and wary, being difficult to observe;
it rarely takes to the wing, evading its enemies by running. When startled,
it utters an alarm note, “Krek,” which is instantly answered bv other birds
in the vicinity. Food : insects, seeds, small freshwater molluscs, and the
green shoots of various plants.

Nest. — A flat structure, composed of dried grasses and herbage, and
generally placed in or near a tussock of grass or among herbage.

Q

222

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Eggs. — Five or six, sometimes as many as eleven, creamy-buff or a
faint buffy-white, spotted and blotched with brownish-red, purplish-red,
and pale violet-grey markings. Breeding-season : October to January.

9. Bush-hen Amaurornis ruficrissus Gould

Am-aur'-orri-is — Gk, amauros, dark; Gk, ornis, bird: ru-fi-criss -us L.,
rufus, red ; L., crissum , vent feathers.

Distribution. — Northern Territory and northern Queensland.

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting swampy areas, chiefly
of the coastal districts. It is similar in habits and economy to the other
species of Rails.

Nest . — An open structure, composed of coarse grass and other
herbage ; generally well concealed, and built in a tussock of .grass.

Eggs. — Four to six, white or faint creamy-white, dotted, spotted, and
finely blotched with pale purplish-red and purplish-grey markings, inter-
mingled with underlying markings of violet-grey. Breeding-season :
October to March.

10. Australian Pratincole Stiltia Isabella Vieillot

Stilt' -i-a — N.L., stiltia, from English stilt: is-a-bell-a— N.L., Isabella, from
the colour isabelline.

Distribution. — Australia (except Western Australia south of the
Fitzroy River) ; also occurs in Borneo, Java to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Swallow Plover. Usually in flocks, frequenting
the dry inland plains. It is a migrant, generally arriving during September
or October, departing in February or March. Plains and bare areas,
entirely destitute of vegetation, are its chosen habitat. It runs over the
ground with great rapidity ; its flight, although appearing clumsy, is never-
theless light and buoyant, and is characterized by erratic zigzag motions.
Food : insects, captured both on the ground and on the wing.

Nest. — A bare space on the ground.

Eggs. — Two, pale stone-colour, covered all over (sometimes very
heavily) with irregular-shaped markings of dark brown and underlying
ones of grey. Breeding-season: September to February.

11. Australian Dotterel Peltohyas australis Gould

Pel-to-hy-as — Gk, pelte, shield; Gk, hyas, a plover: australis — southern
(Australian).

Distribution. — Australia (except the northern, eastern, and south-
eastern coastal districts).

Notes. — Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting plains and the
samphires growing on the margins of lakes and streams. It appears to be
nomadic in habits, although in many localities it is found throughout the
year. If approached carefully it is not timid, but when startled, flies
a considerable distance before alighting again. Its call-note resembles

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

223

“Quick” uttered in a slightly metallic tone, and it also has another low
note like “Kr-root.” Food: insects of various kinds and seeds.

Nest. — A depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Usually three, rich cream or buff, sparingly sprinkled all over
with irregular spots and some elongated crooked markings of chocolate-
black with a few minute dots and dashes of a lighter tint. When the bird
has occasion to leave the nest it covers the eggs with debris. Breeding-
season: April, May, August, September, and October.

12. Lotus-bird Irediparra gallinacea Temminck

I-red-i-parr'-a — Tom Iredale, ornithologist, Australian Museum, Sydney —
L., parra, kind of bird : gal-lxn-a -ce-a — L., gallinaceus, like a fowl.

Distribution. — Northern Australia (coastal), from Derby (north-
western Australia) to the Hawkesbury River (New South Wales) ; also
occurs in Borneo, Celebes to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Comb-crested Jacana, Comb-crested Parra, Lily
Trotter, and Christ-bird. Usually in pairs or small flocks of five or six,
frequenting swamps, lagoons, and streams, chiefly those covered with
aquatic vegetation. It is generally observed running or skipping over the
broad leaves of the waterlilies and similar plants. Habitually shy and
wary. When disturbed, it utters a shrill trumpet-like alarm note and
flies to another part of the swamp or stream. Its flight is weak and
laboured, its long legs being held out horizontally to their full extent.
Food : aquatic animals and plants.

Nest . — A flat structure, composed of sedge, grass, and aquatic plants,
and built upon bunches of weeds or grass growing in the water. It is
generally placed near the edge of a swamp or stream, and is so flat that
the eggs are almost level with the surface of the water, sometimes partly
under water when the bird sits on the nest.

Eggs. — Four, pale brown, pale yellowish-brown, or brownish-red,
covered with well-defined black lines, criss-crossing the surface in all
directions. The surface is smooth, appearing as if varnished or highly
polished. Breeding-season: September to January.

13. Australian Snipe Gallinago hardwicki Gray

Gal-lln-a-go — L., gallinago, feminine form from gallus, a game-bird:
hardwicki — General Hardwicke, associated with J. E. Gray in Indian
Zoology, died 1835.

Distribution. — Japan, migrating southwards to eastern and southern
Australia, and Tasmania; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Common Snipe, Japanese Snipe, Jack Snipe,
Latham's Snipe, Long-bill, and Bleater. Usually in flocks, arriving in
Australia during September, departing in March or April. It frequents
river-flats, swamps, and marshes, and is a timid and wary species. Sports-
men give it first place among game-birds, and although plentiful within
settled districts, very little is known of its habits while in Australia.
Food : insects and worms.

224

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest . — A depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Three or four, pale stone colour, blotched all over, but more
so on the larger end, with dark purplish-red spots and underlying markings
of lavender. Breeding-season: May and June (Japan).

14. Pin-tailed Snipe Gallinago megala Swinhoe
meg'-al-a — Gk, rnegas ( megalos ), large.

Distribution . — Eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to the Malay
Archipelago to New Guinea and northern Australia.

Notes . — Also called Large Pin-tailed Snipe and Little Australian
Snipe. Usually in flocks, arriving in Australia during September or
October, departing in March or April. It frequents moist, marshy coun-
try and swamps, and is similar in habits to the Australian Snipe.

Nest. — A depression in the ground, lined with grass.

Eggs . — Four, creamy-white or pale ochre, spotted with pale reddish-
brown on the smaller end and dark reddish-brown on the larger end, with
dots and stripes on the rest of the surface. Breeding-season : June.

15. Painted Snipe Rostratula australis Gould

Ros-tra-tu-la — L., rostratulus, diminutive of rostratus, beaked : australis
—southern (Australian).

Distribution . — Australia (except central Australia) and Tasmania.
Notes . — Also called Australian Painted Snipe and Australian
Rhynchsea. Usually in pairs, frequenting the margins of swamps and
streams, more especially those covered with low and stunted vegetation. It
is partly nomadic, generally arriving in New South Wales during Septem-
ber or October, remaining to breed, and departing again in February or
March. Occasionally odd pairs remain in a locality throughout the year.
When flushed, it flies close to the ground, making for the nearest cover,
and is then exceedingly difficult to flush again. Food : insects and worms.
The female is larger and brighter in colour than the male, especially on
the wings, and also differs in having the hind-neck chestnut.

Nest . — A shallow depression in the ground, lined with grass or leaves,
and frequently sheltered by a low bush or tuft of grass.

Eggs . — Four, creamy- white or dull yellowish-stone, covered with
short thick streaks and irregular-shaped spots and blotches of black, with
which are intermingled a few spots of brown, brownish-black, and under-
lying markings of grey. Breeding-season: October to January.

16. Little Grebe Podiceps ruficollis Vroeg

Po -di-ceps — an abbreviation of Podicipes — L., podex ( podicis ), rump;
L pes } foot : ru-fi-coll'-is — L., rufus, red, L., collutn , neck.

Distribution . — Eastern hemisphere, Australia, Tasmania, and New
Caledonia.

Notes . — Also called Black-throated Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Dab-
chick, and White-bellied Diver. Usually in pairs or small parties, fre-
quenting still waters of lakes, swampy lagoons, and dams. It is generally

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

225

seen in clear open water far out from the shore, and rarely on the land.
When disturbed it suddenly disappears under the water, to reappear on
the surface some distance away. Food: aquatic animals and plants.

Nest . — A raft-like structure, composed of reeds and other aquatic
plants, generally only a few inches above the surface of the water, and
attached to reeds, twigs of a fallen branch of a tree, or other debris.

Eggs— Four to seven, white, soon becoming stained due to a thick
coating of lime. Breeding-season : October to March or April.

17. Hoary-headed Grebe Podiceps poliocephalns Jardine and Selby
pol-i-o-ceph'-al-us — Gk, polios , grey; Gk, cephale, head.

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Dabchick and Tom Pudding. Usually in pairs
or small parties, frequenting lakes and streams, salt-water inlets, and the
estuaries of rivers. Similar in habits and economy to the Little Grebe.
They are often seen together.

Nest . — Similar to that of the Little Grebe.

Eggs. — Like those of the Little Grebe. Breeding-season: October
to January or February.

18. Wood-sandpiper Tringa glareola Linne

T ring' -a — N.L., from Gk, tryngas, a species of bird: glar-e-dl'-a — L.,
glareolus , gravelly.

Distribution. — Northern Europe and northern Asia, migrating south-
wards to South Africa, India, Malaysia, and Australia.

Notes. — A rare visitor to Australia during the spring and summer
months. It frequents marshy areas, swims well, and also perches on
trees. Food: shell-fish, grasshoppers, and other insects.

Nest. — A depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Four, bluish, covered with large spots and blotches of dark
purplish-red markings, more so at the larger end, and underlying spots
of lavender. Breeding-season: May and June (Siberia).

19. Marsh-sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis Bechstein
stag-na -til-is — L., stagnatilis , of marshes.

Distribution . — Central Europe and northern Asia, migrating south-
wards to South Africa, India, Malaysia, to northern and eastern Australia
Notes. — Also called Little Greenshank. A rare visitor to Australia
during the spring and summer months, where it frequents salt marshes.
Nothing is recorded of its habits while in Australia.

Nest. — A depression in the ground among grass.

Eggs. — Four, very pale yellow, sometimes shading to a greenish tint,
covered all over (but more so on the larger end, where they often form
an irregular zone) with spots of deep brown or coffee-brown, and under-
lying markings of grey. Breeding-season: June (Siberia).

226

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

20. White-headed Stilt Himantopus leucocephalus Gould

Hi-mant'-o-pus — Gk, himantopous, water-bird : leuc-o-ceph* -al-us — Gk,
leucos, white ; Gk, cephale, head.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania; also occurs in Sumbawa,
Timor, the Moluccas, New Guinea, Lord Howe Island, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Pied Stilt, Longshanks, Stilt-bird, and Long-
legged Plover. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting shallow lakes,
swamps, and tidal flats. It often associates with the Red-necked Avocet
and other Waders. The call-note of this species is not unlike the bark
of a small dog. Food : aquatic animals and plants.

Nest. — Either a slight hollow in the mud at the water’s edge, or a
compact structure, composed of dried aquatic plants, built in a swamp.
It usually breeds in colonies, but the nests are scattered along the margins
of the lakes or swamps.

Eggs. — Four, greenish-stone, covered with irregular-shaped spots and
blotches of dark purplish-brown, and smaller underlying markings of
lavender. Breeding-season: August to December.

21. Banded Stilt Cladorhynchus leucocephalus Vieillot
Clad-o-rhyncli-us — Gk, dados , curving branch; Gk, rhynchos , beak: leuc -
o-cepK -al-us— Gk, leucos , white ; Gk, cephale, head.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Rottnest Snipe. Usually in pairs or flocks, fre-
quenting lakes, swamps, the margins of streams, and tidal flats. It is very
similar in habits and economy to the White-headed Stilt, except that it
seems to prefer salt lakes and salt-water to fresh.

Nest. — A slight depression in the ground. Like Terns, it breeds in
compact colonies. The two recorded breeding-areas are Lake Grace
(Western Australia) and Lake Callabonna (South Australia).

Eggs. — Two to four, dull white or faintly tinged with cream, covered
with a tangle of irregular, twisted, and interlacing lines of black or brown,
and underlying markings of grey; some eggs are marked with blotches
and large spots, while others are almost unmarked. Breeding-season:
July and December are the only months recorded.

22. Red-necked Avocet Recurvirostra novce-hollandice Vieillot

Re-curv -i-ros-tra — L., recurvus , turned back; L., rostrum , bill: novce-
hollandice — of New Holland.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; accidental to New
Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Cobbler, Cobbler’s Awl, Painted Lady, Scooper,
Trumpeter, and Yelper. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting lakes,
streams, and swamps. It is generally shy and quiet, but becomes very
noisy if its nest is approached. Besides its call-note, which is somewhat

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

227

like the bark of a dog, it has a peculiar squeaky trumpet-like whistle
generally uttered during flight. Food : aquatic animals and plants.

Nest. — A, depression in the ground, usually among herbage close to
the water's edge. Some nests have a few twigs, pebbles, or pieces of
hardened mud placed round the edge to keep the eggs in position.

Eggs. — Four, light yellowish-stone to creamy-brown, over which are
distributed spots, freckles, and blotches of black, and underlying markings
of inky-grey. Breeding-season : August to December.

23. Masked Plover Lobibyx miles Boddaert

Lob-f -by x — Gk, lob os, lobe ; Gk, ibyx, a variant of ibis, a bird : mi'-les —
L,, miles , soldier.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, from Broome (Western Austra-
lia) to Brisbane (Queensland) ; also occurs in the Molucca Islands, Timor,
Aru Islands, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting the margins of
swamps, lagoons, and streams. It is nomadic, although odd pairs will
remain in a district throughout the year. The call-note of this species
resembles “Keerk, keerk, keerk,” usually uttered when alarmed or when
in flight. Food : insects, small crustaceans, and herbage.

Nest. — A depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Four, greenish-olive or yellowish-stone, covered with freckles,
spots, and irregular-shaped markings of olive-brown and blackish -brown
and underlying spots of dull slate. Breeding-season: January to April.

24. Spur-winged Plover Lobibyx novce-hollandice Stephens
novcc-hollandice — of New Holland.

Distribution. — South-eastern Australia (from Cooper's Creek,
central Australia, to the Fitzroy River, central Queensland), and Tas-
mania; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Wattled Plover and Alarm-bird. Usually in pairs
or flocks, frequenting the margins of swamps, lagoons, and streams. It is
very shy and wary, and when disturbed utters a shrill alarm note, warning
its companions as well as other birds in the neighbourhood. The call-note,
“Kurra-Carrak,” is generally voiced while the bird is in flight, and is
mostly heard at dusk or at daybreak. Food: insects, small crustaceans,
and herbage.

Nest. — A slight depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Four, light yellowish-olive or brownish-olive, spotted, freckled,
and blotched with brownish-black markings and underlying spots of dull
grey. Breeding-season : July to January.

25. Banded Plover Zonifer tricolor Vieillot

Zon'-i-fer — L., zona, band ; L., fero, I bear : tri-col-or — L., tricolor, three-
coloured.

Distribution. — Australia (except the northern portion) and Tasmania.

Til ft IS I R OS OF AUSTRALIA

2/K

Notes. Also called Black-breasted Plover, Flock Plover, Plain
Plover, and Tricoloured Plover. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting
well grassed lands in the vic inity of water, as well as plains far from it.
It is partly nomadic, its movements from one district to another being
influenced by the seasonal conditions. Like the other species of Plovers,
it resents any interference with its eggs or young, and employs all manner
of wiles to lure the intruder away, or, protesting loudly, will make bold
swoops at an observer. Food : insects and their larvae, also seeds of
grasses and other plants.

Nest. A shallow depression scratched in the ground.

E(j(js. Four, light brown, covered with irregular-shaped s|>ots and
blotches of brown, blackish-brown, and some underlying markings of
grey, Breeding-season: July to November.

2(>. White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucoptera Temminck
Child on t ax ( ik, chlidon — ornament : ICUc-op'-lcr-a — Gk, leucos , white ;
Gk, pier on, wing.

Distribution. Southern and central Europe, across central Asia to
China, migrating southwards to Africa, India, Malaysia, to Australia;
accidental to North America and New Zealand.

Notes Also called Eastern White winged "Fern. This species visits
northern Australia during the spring and summer months, where it
frequents lakes and swamps. Very little has been recorded of its habits
while in Australia. The coloured figure represents an adult in winter
plumage; an adult in breeding plumage has the entire head, neck, upper
back, breast, flanks, and abdomen glossy black; lower back and rump,
greyish black ; upper tail-coverts and tail, pure white.

Nest. C omposed of vegetable debris piled to form a fairly large
structure, and placed on water-surrounded clumps of fixed vegetation;
occasionally on accumulations of pond material floating on the surface.
Breeds in large colonies, often in association with the Whiskered 'fern.

lltjtjs. Usually three, varying from deep olive or pale chocolate to
greenish-grey or buff, covered with blotches, dots, or streaks of black or
umber, generally forming an irregular belt round the larger end. Breeding-
season : May, June, and July (does not breed in Australia).

27. Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida Balias
hy'-brid a L„ hibrida , a mongrel.

Distribution. Australia and Tasmania; also occurs in Europe,
Africa, central and southern Asia, and Malaysia.

Notes. Also called Marsh Tern. Usually in flocks, frequenting
chiefly lakes and swamps of the inland districts. It has an easy and
extremely graceful flight as it passes over the lakes, every now and then
darting down into the water after food, which consists mostly of live
fish and aquatic insects and their larvae.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

229

Nest . — Composed of rushes or aquatic plants, forming a flat structure,
generally floating upon the surface of the water. Sometimes placed
among rushes growing in deep water, some distance from the shore.

Eggs. — Two or three, greenish-buff, blotched all over with blackish-
brown and some underlying markings of grey. Breeding-season : October
November, and December.

28. Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica Gmelin
Ge-lo-chel-i'-don — gelo, derivation unknown; Gk, chelidon, swallow:
nilotica — from the River Nile.

Distribution. — Australia (except the south-western portion), and
Tasmania ; also occurs along the Atlantic coast of America, and in Europe,
Africa, southern Asia, Malaysia, and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Long-legged Tern. Usually in flocks, frequenting
both inland lakes and swamps and the seashore. It is generally seen
skimming in hawk-like fashion over the swamps, lakes, or surrounding
plains, or above salt-water marshes and estuaries. Food : live fish, insects,
and small reptiles.

Nest. — A depression in the soil, surrounded by any debris near at
hand, collected and added to as incubation proceeds. Breeds in colonies.

Eggs. — Two to four, buffy-white or whitish-brown, sparingly covered
with light umber markings, over which are splashes and spots of
purplish-red and purplish-grey, and others of a lighter tint, appearing as
if beneath the surface of the shell. Breeding-season: October to March
(eastern Australia) ; May (north-western Australia).

29. Roseate Tern Sterna dougalli Montagu

Stern -a — N.L., sterna , gull: dougalli — Dr MacDougall of Glasgow, 1808.

Distribution. — Central, eastern, and northern America, and Europe,
Africa, Australia (except the south-eastern portion), and New Caledonia.

Notes. — Also called Graceful Tern. Usually in flocks, frequenting
chiefly the islands off the coast, salt marshes, and often lakes and swamps
of inland districts. It is an extremely graceful bird in flight, and its
beautiful rose-tinted under-parts, seen only in certain lights, distinguish it
from the other species of Terns. Food : chiefly live fish.

Nest. — A slight depression in the sand or on a ridge of dead coral ;
sometimes partly lined with fine pieces of coral, or shells. Breeds in
colonies on islands off the coast, chiefly in tropical latitudes.

Eggs. — Usually two, varying from light yellowish to a faint greyish-
stone, uniformly covered with dots, spots, and a few small irregular-shaped
blotches of brownish or inky-black with underlying markings of faint
bluish or inky-grey. Some eggs are marked by a few large conspicuous
blotches with smaller dots of the same hues on the larger end. Breeding-
season: September to December or January.

230

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XXXII

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

1. Black-tailed Water-hen Tribonyx ventralis Gould
Trlb'-on~yx — Gk, tri, three; Gk, onyx ( onychos ), claw: ven-trd -lis — L.,
ventralis , bellied.

Distribution. — Australia (except the interior of Western Australia) ;
accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Black-tailed Native Hen, Swamp-hen, and Black-
tailed Gallinule. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting swamps, lakes, or
the reed-beds and backwaters of rivers. It is nomadic in habits, often
appearing in huge flocks in districts where it has not previously been
recorded. During these visitations it does considerable damage to crops
and gardens. Il is a sprightly bird, flicking its tail as it runs in and out
of the reeds, and flying only when hard-pressed. Food: grass and aquatic
plants and animals.

Nest. — An open, deep, saucer-shaped structure, composed of plant-
stems, dried grasses, or rushes. Generally placed on the ground in a
clump of reeds, under a low bush, on a mass of debris, or in similar
situations.

Eggs. — Five to nine, varying from a dull light green to pale sage-
green, sparsely but evenly dotted and spotted with purplish-brown, inter-
mixed with faint markings of dull violet-grey. Breeding-season: August
to December.

2. Tasmanian Water-hen Tribonyx mortieri Du Bus

mortieri — Mortier or Dumortier, who seems to have been curator of the
Brussels Museum.

Distribu tion . — T as ma n ia .

Motes. — Also called Native Hen. Usually in pairs or flocks, fre-
quenting marshes, swamps, and reedy margins of lakes and streams. It
is rather shy, disappearing in the rank herbage when disturbed. The
call resemble^ the sound of steel being sharpened; the bird has another
note — a loud resonant “Cluck.” Food : aquatic plants and insects, mixed
with large quantities of gravel.

Nest. — An open, bulky structure, composed of dry herbage and reed-
stalks. Built on the ground and sheltered beneath a clump of rushes or
a low bush.

I

Plate XXXI l

» ^

"V •

f

V.

ft

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

231

Eggs . — Five to eight, varying from dull yellowish-stone to light
buffy-brown, sparingly and uniformly spotted and blotched with shades
of chestnut-brown and faint markings of purplish-brown. Breeding-
season : September to December.

3. Dusky Moor-hen Gallinula tenebrosa Gould

Gal-liri ~u-la — L., gallinula , small fowl : ten-e-bro-sa — L., tenebrosus , dark.

Distribution . — Australia (except north-western Australia, Northern
Territory, and central Australia) ; also occurs in New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Black Moor-hen and Black Gallinule. Usually
in pairs or flocks, frequenting swamps and the margins of lakes or streams.
It is an active bird, and runs, swims, or dives with equal celerity ; occasion-
ally when disturbed it flies with a heavy and laboured flight from one
side of a stream or swamp to the other. Food: aquatic plants and insects.

Nest . — An open structure, composed of reed-stems and dried grasses ;
placed on a broken-down tussock of grass or rushes.

Eggs . — Five to seven, occasionally ten, varying from pale creamy-
white 'to putty colour, covered with dots and irregular-shaped spots and
blotches of dull reddish-brown and purplish-bi'own. Breeding-season:
August to December.

4. Chestnut Rail Eulabeornis castaneoventris Gould

Eu-lab-e-orn-is — Gk, eulabes, cautious ; Gk, ornis f bird : cas-tan -e-o-ven -
tris — L., castaneus, chestnut ; L., venter, belly.

Distribution . — Northern Australia, from Kimberley (north-western
Australia) to Cape York Peninsula; also occurs in the Aru Islands.

Notes . — Also called Chestnut-breasted Rail. Usually singly or in
pairs, frequenting muddy shores and mangroves, where it is not often
seen owing to its shyness and wariness. It rarely takes to the wing when
alarmed, generally seeking safety by running. Food: insects, molluscs,
and crustaceans.

Nest. — A flat, unlined structure, composed of sticks ; generally placed
on a low slanting branch of a mangrove tree.

Eggs . — Four, pale pinkish-white, sparsely dotted all over with reddish-
chestnut; some markings appear as if beneath the surface of the shell.
Breeding-season : September to November.

5. Eastern Swamp-hen Porphyrio melanotus Temminck
Por-phyr'-i-o — Gk, porphyrios , purple: mel'-an-o'-tus — Gk, melas ( mela -
nos), black; Gk, noton, back.

Distribution . — Australia (except the south-western portion), and
Tasmania; also occurs in New Guinea, New Caledonia, Norfolk Island,
Lord Howe Island, and New Zealand.

Notes . — Also called Bald Coot, Purple Gallinule, Purple Water-hen,
Black-backed Water-hen, Macquarie Hen, Redbill, and Pukeko. Usually

232

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

in pairs or flocks, frequenting the reedy margins and flats of rivers, back-
waters, and swamps. It also congregates in large flocks and occasionally
does considerable damage to crops and gardens. The call-note is loud and
shrill and is generally uttered during the night or when the bird is startled.
It swims readily; when walking it flicks its tail continually. Food: grass,
aquatic plants, and freshwater molluscs. Uses foot to hold food when
feeding.

Nest. — An open structure, composed of reeds, rushes, and other plant
material ; placed on a platform of broken-down reeds or in a tussock of
lignum.

Eggs. — Five to seven, varying from pale brown to faint creamy-
brown, covered with evenly scattered dots, spots, and small irregular-
shaped blotches of dull reddish or purplish-brown, and faint markings of
pale slate-grey. Breeding-season: August to December or January.

6. Western Swamp-hen Porphyrio bellus Gould
bell' -us — L., bellus , beautiful.

Distribution. — South-western Australia.

Notes. — Also called Bald Coot, Azure-breasted Gallinule, and Blue-
breasted Swamp-hen. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting swamps and
the margins of rivers and lakes. It is similar in habits and economy to
the Eastern Swamp-hen.

Nest. — Very similar to that of the Eastern Swamp-hen.

Eggs . — Four to seven, pale or creamy-brown, covered with dots, spots,
and rounded blotches of pale purplish-red, and underlying markings of
purplish-grey and faint inky-grey. Breeding-season : August or September
to December or January.

7. Coot Eulica atra Linne

Fu'-lic-a — L., fulica, coot : a-tra — L., ater , black.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
Europe, northern Africa, and Asia; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting lakes, swamps, or back-
waters of streams. An expert swimmer and diver; a most graceful bird
in the water, but with a rather clumsy gait on land. When swimming
it constantly jerks its head backwards and forwards, apparently keeping
time with the paddle-like strokes of its feet. It is also a noisy bird, with
a variety of notes. Food : aquatic plants and animals.

Nest. — An open, bulky structure, composed of aquatic plants; lined
with the sheaths and leaves of reeds ; built in a bunch of reeds or on top
of a low bush growing in water. Some nests have rough pathways of
reeds leading to them.

Eggs. — Seven to ten, dull whitish-brown, uniformly covered with dots
and spots of purplish-brown and a few faint markings of dull violet-grey.
Breeding-season: August to February.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

233

8. Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Linne

Pd-dirceps — L., podex ( podicis ), rump; L., pes, foot: cris-ta-tus — L.,
cristatus , crested.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in the
eastern hemisphere and New Zealand.

Notes . — Also called Great Crested Grebe, Tippet Grebe, Loon, Gaunt,
and Carr Goose. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting lakes, streams,
and swamps. It is partly a migrant, wintering in the warmer latitudes
and arriving in southern Australia during early spring. Deep pools and
reaches are its favourite haunts, where it is generally seen floating placidly
on the water. When alarmed, it utters a guttural note resembling “Hek,”
and sinks its body almost entirely beneath the water, while its long neck is
stretched upwards to its fullest extent. Food : aquatic plants and animals.

Nest. — A flat, floating platform of green rushes, reeds, and other
water plants, merely laid one on top of the other, and moored to
rushes or the branches of a floating tree. Usually it rests just above the
surface of the water, frequently being quite wet.

Eggs . — Five to seven, greenish-white, soon becoming soiled from
contact with the more or less decaying vegetation of which the nest is
composed. Breeding-season: November to February.

9. Darter Anhinga novce-hollandice Gould

An-hing-a — anhinga , native Brazilian name of the bird: novcz-hollandice
— of New Holland.

Distribution. — Australia generally; also occurs in New Guinea;
accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Snake-necked Darter, Snake-bird, Diver, and
Shag. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting chiefly inland lakes, streams,
and swamps. Generally shy and wary; its favourite haunts being deep
pools and secluded reaches. If disturbed while swimming it immediately
sinks its body beneath the water, leaving only its head and neck above
the surface, or dives, to reappear some distance away. Food: fish and
aquatic animals.

Nest— A substantial platform composed of twigs and sticks, and
covered with green branchlets which droop over the sides; generally
placed in the branches of a low tree, overhanging or standing in water.

Eggs. — Three to five, greenish and covered with a coating of whitish
lime. Breeding-season : October to January (eastern Australia) ; February
and March (north-western Australia) ; May and June (Northern
Territory).

10- Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus Linne

Ple-ga-dis — Gk, plegas, plegados , sickle: fal-cin-eU'-us—L falcinella,
little scythe. (Both names refer to the shape of the bill.)

Distribution, . — Australia (usually the northern half), and Tasmania;
also occurs in eastern United States of America, southern Europe, Africa,'
southern Asia, and Malaysia; accidental to New Zealand.

234

THE BTRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes . — Also called Black Curlew. Usually in pairs or flocks, fre-
quenting swamps, margins of lakes and streams, and adjoining grass-
lands. It is a very useful bird and is generally fearless, often visiting
farms to follow the plough. Food: insects and their larvae.

Nest . — A platform composed of sticks, lined with reeds and other
aquatic plants; generally placed in an upright forked branch of a tree.
Some nests are composed entirely of leafy branches, without extra lining,
and are rather deep structures. Breeds in the most inaccessible parts of
large swamps or watercourses.

Eggs . — Three or four, deep greenish-blue, the surface being slightly
rough and lustreless. Breeding-season: September to December.

11. White Ibis Threskiornis molucca Cuvier

Thresk-i-orri-is — Gk, threskos, sacred ; Gk, ornis, bird : molucca — of the
Molucca Islands.

Distribution . — Australia (except Western Australia, south of North
West Cape) ; also occurs in the Molucca Islands to New Guinea; accidental
to New Zealand.

Notes . — Also called Black-necked Ibis and Sickle-bird. Usually in
flocks, frequenting swamps or the margins of streams and lakes which
adjoin grass-lands. It is a very useful bird, and destroys countless
numbers of injurious insects and their larvae. Generally it prefers secluded
situations where it can search for food or build its nest and breed un-
disturbed. In many districts, however, it has become quite tame, and is
common in paddocks and cultivated areas.

Nest . — A platform, made by bending down polygonum, reeds, and
other aquatic herbage. Breeds in colonies, which are generally situated
in the centre of a swamp; it is often in the company of the Straw-necked
Ibis.

Eggs . — Two to five, dull white and lustreless. Breeding-season:
September to December.

12. Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis Jameson
spl-ni-colt-is — L., spina, thorn; L., collum, neck.

Distribution . — Australia generally; accidental to Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Farmer’s Friend, Dry weather-bird, and Letter-
bird. Usually in flocks, frequenting swamps, the margins of streams and
lakes, or pastoral lands. It is one of the most useful birds we have in
Australia ; fortunately it is common, and generally receives the protection
it deserves. Being chiefly nomadic in habits it travels over a vast area
of country. One sees it dotted over pastoral lands, intent on the capture
of injurious insects or their larvae, or following in the wake of a plough,
feeding on the insects thus disturbed.

Nest .— Similar in construction and material to that of the White-
necked Ibis. Breeds in colonies generally numbering thousands of birds.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

235

Favourite situations of colonies are small islands of reeds or lignum
bushes scattered over a swamp.

Eggs. — Three to five, dull white and lustreless. Breeding-season:
September to December.

13. Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia Gould

Plat-aV -e-a — Gk, platalea , spoonbill : re-gi-a — L., re gins, regal.

Distribution. — Australia (except Western Australia, south of North
West Cape); also occurs in Borneo, and the Celebes to New Guinea;
accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Black-billed Spoonbill. Observed singly, in pairs,
or in small flocks, frequenting swamps, lagoons, and reed-covered margins
of rivers. It is a typical wading bird, and stalks its food in the shallow
weed-covered swamps, showing a preference for large swampy areas,
where it can keep far out from the margins. Food: small fish, aquatic
insects, and molluscs. In breeding plumage an adult has the nuchal
crest feathers elongated.

Nest. — An open platform, composed of broken-down reeds and twigs,
placed a few feet above the water. Some nests are placed among the
branches of low leafy trees. Isolated nests of White and Straw-necked
Ibises are often found in breeding colonies of this species.

Eggs . — Three or four, dull chalky-white, covered more or less with
spots, blotches, and smears of pale yellowish-brown or reddish-brown
markings. Breeding-season: October to April.

14. Yellow-billed Spoonbill Platalea flavipcs Gould
flav-i-pes — L., flavus, yellow; L., pes (pedis), foot.

Distribution. — Australia generally.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-legged Spoonbill. Observed singly, in
pairs, or in flocks, frequenting swamps, margins of lakes and streams, or
flood-covered flats. It is generally seen stalking gracefully about the
edge of a swamp in search of food, often in the company of other wading
birds. Except when breeding, it is extremely shy and wary, and its habit
of perching on the branch of a dead tree makes it difficult of approach.
Food : fish, aquatic insects, and molluscs.

A Jest. — A large structure, composed of sticks loosely interlaced;
generally placed in an upright forked branch of a tree, preferably one
growing in water. Breeds in colonies, mostly in the company of Cor-
morants and Herons.

Eggs. — Three or four, dull chalky-white and lustreless. Breeding-
season : September to January.

15. Great-billed Heron Ardea sumatrana Raffles
Ard'-e-a — L., ardea , heron: sumatrana — of Sumatra.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, from King Sound (north-western
Australia) to Broad Sound (Queensland) ; also occurs in Malaysia.

236

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting chiefly mangrove
swamps. It is a shy bird' and haunts the quiet reaches and channels which
intersect the large areas of mangroves. When disturbed, it flies with a
lazy and rather ungainly flight to a more secluded part of the swamp.
Its note is a hoarse croak. Food : marine animals of various kinds.

Nest. — A rather flat, bulky structure, composed of coarse sticks;
placed in a mangrove tree, generally in one overhanging a narrow channel.

Eggs. — Usually two, light bluish-green, the surface being slightly
glossy and minutely pitted. Breeding-season: April (Queensland);
February (Northern Territory).

16- Little Egret Egretta garzetta Linnaeus

E-gret'-ta — N.L., egretta , egret: gar-zet'-ta — N.L., garzetta , little heron.

Distribution. — Northern and eastern Australia ; also occurs in southern
Europe, Africa, central and southern Asia, and Malaysia to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Lesser Egret and Spotless Egret. Observed
singly, in pairs, or in small flocks, frequenting swamps or the margins of
lakes and streams. Except when breeding, it is exceptionally shy and
wary, generally keeping away from the shore, so that it may have an
uninterrupted view of its surroundings. It is nomadic, and by no means
plentiful. Food : aquatic animals. An adult in non-breeding plumage does
not possess the plumes on the back or the ornamental feathers on the
fore-neck.

Nest. — A platform composed of sticks, placed in the branches of a
tree growing in or at the edge of water. Breeds in colonies, often in
association with other wading birds.

Eggs. — Three to five, light or pale bluish-green, the surface being
slightly glossy and minutely pitted. Breeding-season: October to December
or January (New South Wales) ; March and April (northern Queens-
land ) .

17- Plumed Egret Egretta intermedia Wagler
in-ter-med’-i-a — L., inter me dius, intermediate.

Distribution. — Northern, eastern, and southern Australia; also occurs
in southern and eastern Africa, southern Asia, and Malaysia to New
Guinea.

Notes. — Also called White Crane. Observed singly, in pairs, or in
flocks, frequenting swamps or the margins of lakes and streams. It is
nomadic and is similar in habits and economy to the Little Egret. An
adult in non-breeding plumage does not possess the plumes on the back
or the ornamental feathers on the fore-neck.

Nest. — An almost flat structure, composed of thin sticks and twigs, in
some instances with leaves attached ; placed in the branches of a tree
growing in or near water. Breeds in colonies, often in association with
other wading birds.

TYPICAL STREAM

Photo. A. J. Campbell

SWAMP AND REED-BED

Photo. A. Mattingley

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

237

Eggs, .—Three to five, pale sea-green, the surface being either smooth
or finely pitted, and lustreless. Breeding-season: October to December
or January.

18. Egret Egretta alba Linne
al'-ba — L., albus , white.

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
southern Europe, Africa, central and southern Asia, Malaysia to the
Philippine Islands, New Guinea, and New Zealand.

Notes . — Also called Great Egret and White Crane. Observed singly,
in pairs, or in flocks, frequenting swamps or the margins of lakes and
streams. It is nomadic, and when not breeding is generally seen scattered
over the shallow waters of lakes and swamps, silently wading in quest of
prey. Food: fish, frogs, and aquatic insects. An adult in non-breeding
plumage does not possess the plumes on the back or the ornamental
feathers on the fore-neck.

Nest. — A platform composed of sticks; placed in the branches of a
tree growing in or near water. Breeds in colonies, often in association
with other wading birds.

Eggs . — Three to five, bluish-green, the surface being minutely pitted.
Breeding-season: November to January.

19. White-faced Heron Notophoyx novce-hollandice Latham

Not-o-pho-yx — Gk, notos , south; Gk, phoyx, heron: novce-hollandice — of
New Holland.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in the
Celebes, Molucca Islands, New Guinea, New Caledonia, Lord Howe
Island, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called White-fronted Heron and Blue Crane. Observed
singly, in pairs, or in small flocks, frequenting swamps, the margins of
lakes and streams, mud-flats, and mangroves. It is generally seen either
wading in shallow water or perched on a dead limb of a tree near water.
When disturbed, it utters a loud croaking note, rises slowly with a laboured
flight, then wends it way to safety. Food: yabbies, freshwater snails,
frogs, and insects of various kinds.

Nest. — A rather scanty platform, composed of sticks, placed in the
branches of a tree growing in or near water. Breeds singly or in colonies.

Eggs. — Three to six, pale bluish-green, the surface being smooth and
lustreless. Breeding-season: September to January.

20. White-necked Heron Notophoyx pacifica Latham
pac-if-ic-a — pad ficus , of the Pacific Ocean.

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Pacific Heron and White-necked Crane.
Observed singly, in pairs, or in small flocks, frequenting swamps or the

238

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

margins of lakes and streams. It is generally very shy and wary, keeping
to more or less open situations, where it has an uninterrupted view of
its surroundings. Food: fish, small reptiles, freshwater molluscs, frogs,
aquatic insects, and small mammals.

Nest. — A rather bulky platform, composed of sticks; placed in the
branches of a tree growing in or near water. Breeds in colonies, often
in association with Spoonbills and Cormorants. Generally dead trees,
chiefly those standing in swamps or flooded lands, are used as nesting-sites.

Eggs. — Usually four, rarely five, pale greenish-blue, the surface being
smooth and lustreless. Breeding-season: September to January.

21. Pied Heron Notophoyx aruensis Gray
aruensis — of the Aru Islands, south of New Guinea.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, from Wyndham (north-western
Australia), to Cape York Peninsula; also occurs in the Celebes, Molucca
Islands, New Guinea, and the Aru Islands.

Notes. — Observed singly, in pairs, or in flocks, frequenting chiefly
mangroves and swampy areas. Very little has been recorded of its habits
and economy. It is believed to be a migrant, visiting Australia during the
spring and summer months.

Nest. — A slightly concave structure, composed of small mangrove
sticks and twigs; placed in a mangrove tree, at heights up to 15 feet from
the gr'ound.

Eggs. — Three or four, deep blue-green. Breeding-season : April (or
March to May).

22. Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Linne

Phal'-a-cro-cor'-ax — Gk, phalacros, bald ; Gk, corax, crow or raven :
car -bo — L., carbo , charcoal (black).

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
eastern North America, Europe, Africa, Asia to New Guinea, and New
Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Black Shag. Usually singly or in small flocks,
frequenting lakes, streams, rocky islets, or inlets. It is generally seen
perched on poles or snags in streams, on rocks, or resting on sand-banks
and mud-flats. This bird often dives from its perch after fish and yabbies,
though the usual method of securing food is to submerge and pursue its
prey under water.

Nest. — An open and almost flat structure, composed of sticks, twigs,
aquatic herbage, and debris; placed either on a horizontal branch of a
tree, in a low bush, or on a ledge of rock. Breeds in colonies.

Eggs. — Three to five, pale bluish-white, thickly and often roughly
coated with lime; the eggs soon become scratched and nest-stained.
Breeding-season: July to" October (eastern Australia); September to
December (Tasmania).

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

239

23. Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax ater Lesson
a-ter — L., ater , black.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in Java,
Borneo to New Guinea, New Caledonia, Norfolk Island, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Little Black Shag. Usually singly or in flocks,
frequenting lakes, streams, rocky islets, or inlets. It is similar in habits
and economy to the Black Cormorant, though more plentiful than that
species.

Nest. — A platform, composed of sticks and thin twigs, often with
leaves attached, placed on a horizontal branch of a tree. Usually breeds
in large colonies.

Eggs . — Three to six, pale green, coated with lime. Breeding-
season: August to December (southern Australia); May and June
(northern Australia).

24. White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscescens Vieillot
fus-ces-cens — L., fuscescens , becoming brown.

Distribution. — Southern Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Black-and-white Shag. Usually singly or in
flocks, frequenting rocky islands and inlets. It is chiefly a coastal bird and
is similar in habits and economy to the other species of Cormorants.

Nest. — A flat structure, composed of seaweed and flotsam; placed on
a ledge of rock. Breeds in large colonies on islands.

Eggs. — Two to four, pale bluish-white, the surface being more or
less coated with lime. Breeding-season: October to January.

25. Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius Gmelin
var-i-us — L., varius different.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in Lord
Howe Island and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Black-and-white Shag. Usually singly or in
flocks, frequenting swamps, lakes, streams, inlets, or rocky islands. It
is similar in habits and economy to the other species of Cormorants, with
which it often congregates.

Nest . — A substantial structure, built on a firm foundation of sticks;
lined with green eucalypt leaves and the bird’s quill feathers; placed on
a horizontal branch of a tree, on a low bush, or on the ground. Breeds
in large colonies on islands, in mangroves, or in inland swamps.

Eggs. — Three to five, pale bluish-white, more or less obscured by a
coating of lime. Breeding-season : September to December ; March to July.

26. Little Pied Cormorant Microcarbo melanoleucus Vieillot
Micr-o-carb'-o — Gk, micros, small ; L., carbo, charcoal : met-an-o-leuc-us—
Gk, melas ( melanos \ black; Gk, leucos , white.

240

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Distribution . — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
Sumatra, Celebes to New Guinea, New Caledonia, Lord Howe Island, and
New Zealand.

Notes . — Also called Little Black-and-white Shag and Frilled Shag.
Usually singly or in flocks, frequenting lakes, swamps, streams, inlets, or
rocky islets. It is very plentiful in inland districts, and is similar in
habits and economy to the other species of Cormorants.

Nest . — A platform composed of sticks and small green twigs ; placed
on a branch of a tree, usually one growing in or near water. Breeds in
large colonies, often in association with different species of wading birds.

Eggs . — Four to seven, usually five, pale bluish-white, more or less
obscured with a coating of lime. Breeding-season: usually September
to January.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

241

PLATE XXXIII

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS
I. White-eyed Duck Nyroca australis Eyton

Ny-roc-a — N.L., from Russian nyrok, a kind of duck: australis — southern
(Australian).

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in New
Guinea, New Caledonia, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Hardhead, White-winged Duck, Barwing, Brown-
head, and Karakahia. Usually in pairs or flocks, showing a preference for
the deep still reaches and pools of swamps, streams, or shallow water.
It is exceedingly shy and wary, as well as being perhaps the fastest flier
of our Ducks. Most of its food is procured by diving ; it remains under
water some considerable time, raking the mud in search of shell-fish or
other food.

Nest. — A slight depression in the ground, lined with grass mixed
with down and feathers; often in lignum or cane-grass, well concealed,
and composed of grass with very little down ; and sometimes in a hole
or hollow spout of a tree.

Eggs. — Eleven to as many as twenty-five, light creamy-white (unless
nest-stained), the surface being glossy and greasy. Breeding-season:
September or October to December.

2. Grey Teal Querquedula gibberifrons Muller

Quer-qued'-u-la — N.L., querquedula, duck: gib'-ber-i-frons — L., gibberus,
humped ; L., frons, forehead.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in the
Celebes, Java to New Guinea, New Caledonia, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Wood Teal and Slender Teal. Usually in flocks,
frequenting streams, swamps, and lagoons, either inland or near the coast.
It usually congregates in large numbers and is tolerably fearless, unless
disturbed by too much shooting. The call-note is a peculiar little “Cack-
cack-cack,” repeated in quick succession. Food: aquatic animals and
plants.

Nest. — Composed of grass, and always well lined with down; placed
in a hollow limb, a hole in a tree, or in lignum or grass.

242

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Eggs. — Five to twelve, creamy-white (unless nest-stained), the sur-
face being smooth and slightly glossy. Breeding-season : practically
throughout the year, influenced by the rainfall.

3. Chestnut Teal Querquedula castanea Eyton
cas-tan-e-a — L., casiancus , chestnut.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, south
and mid-western Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Chestnut-breasted Teal, Green-headed Teal,
Black Teal, Mountain Teal, and Tete. Usually in small flocks, often in
the company of the Grey Teal, frequenting salt-water lakes, inlets, and
swamps, as well as inland streams and lagoons. It is similar in habits
and economy to the Grey Teal.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree, but occasionally on the
ground in grass or herbage in the vicinity of water; lined with down.

Eggs. — Nine to thirteen, cream-coloured (unless nest-stained), the
surface being glossy and greasy. Breeding-season: June to December.

4. Garganey Teal Querquedula querquedula Linne
quer-qued'-u-la — N.L., querquedula, duck.

Distribution. — Northern Europe, Asia, tropical Africa to New
Guinea ; accidental to Australia.

Notes.— Also called Summer Teal and Cricket Teal. There are only
three records of the occurrence of this species in Australia, the specimens
being secured in Victoria. The female differs from the adult male chiefly
by the absence of the chocolate-brown on the sides of the face and fore-
neck, the dark brown spot on the chin (this part being white), the orna-
mental feathers on the scapulars, and the fine barring on the lower
abdomen.

Nest. — A depression in the ground among grass or herbage, lined
with grass and down.

Eggs . — Eight to fourteen, huffish-white or cream-coloured (unless
nest-stained), the surface being smooth and glossy. Not known to breed
•in Australia.

5. Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis Gould

0 x-y-ur’-a — Gk, oxys, sharp; Gk, oura, tail: australis — southern (Aus-
tralian).

Distribution . — Southern Australia (from Moora, Western Australia,
to Chinchilla, Queensland) and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Spiny-tailed Duck, Stiff-tailed Duck, Diving
Duck, and Little Musk Duck. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting
chiefly lakes, lagoons, or swamps. It is a shy and wary bird ; generally
keeps to the deep reaches and pools or to the small islands of reeds and

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

243

flags growing well away from the margins of lakes or swamps. Most
of its food is procured by diving; it remains under water for considerable
periods. Food: aquatic animals and plants. The female is freckled grey-
brown, the underparts being lighter than those of the male.

Nest. — A bulky structure, composed of flags or reeds, and lined with
down. The nest is made by bending down and interlacing the flags.

Eggs. — Four to six, pale greenish-white (unless nest-stained), the
surface being slightly glossy and rough. Breeding-season: October to
December or January.

6. White-quilled Pygmy Goose Nettapus coromandelianus Gmelin

Net'-ta-pus — Gk, netta , duck; Gk, pus ( pous ), podos , foot: Coromandel -
ianus — of the Coromandel coast, India.

Distribution. — North-eastern Australia, as far south as the Clarence
River (New South Wales) ; also occurs in India, China, Malaysia to the
Celebes, and Sunda Island.

Notes. — Also called White-quilled Goose-teal. Very little has been
recorded of its habits. It is said to frequent lakes, streams, and swamps,
where it congregates in small flocks.

Nest. — In a hole in a tree.

Eggs. — One authentic egg is described as faint creamy-white, the shell
being very fine and smooth and without gloss. Breeding-season : not
recorded.

7. Green Pygmy Goose Nettapus pulchellus Gould
pul-chel' -lus — L., pulchellus , pretty.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, and
northern Queensland; also occurs from the Celebes to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Green Goose-teal. Usually in pairs or small
flocks, frequenting lakes, streams, or swamps. It is generally shy and
difficult to approach. When disturbed, it rises quickly and utters a peculiar
whistling note while on the wing. Food: aquatic animals and plants.

Nest. — A flat structure, occasionally with a slight cavity, composed of
long dry grasses ; lined with feathers and down. Generally placed among
herbage growing in water. It also nests in a hole in a tree.

Eggs. — Four to eleven or even more, faint creamy-white (unless nest-
stained), the surface being smooth and lustrous. Breeding-season:
February and March, or during the rainy season.

8. Maned Goose Chenonetta jubata Latham

Chen-o-net’-ta — Gk, chen, goose; Gk, netta, duck: jub-a-ta — L., jubatus,
maned.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Wood Duck. Usually in pairs or flocks, showing
a preference for the upper reaches of streams and the timbered margins

244

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

to the more open spaces of swamps. It procures most of its food out of
the water, feeding on grass and herbage growing on the margins of streams
and swamps; it often frequents flats some distance from water.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree, lined with down and
feathers; often high up, and sometimes far from water.

Eggs. — Six to twelve, creamy or creamy-white, the surface being
smooth and lustrous. Breeding-season: all the year round, dependent on
rainfall.

9. Freckled Duck Stictonetta ncevosa Gould

Stic-to-net'-ta — Gk, stictos, freckled; Gk, netta , duck: ncev-o-sa — L.,
ncevosus, spotted.

Distribution. — Southern Australia (as far north as North West Cape,
Western Australia, and the Flinders River, northern Queensland) and
Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Monkey Duck and Speckled Duck. Usually in
pairs or small Hocks, frequenting chiefly lakes and swamps of the inland
districts. It is a rare species in coastal areas, generally arriving in the
interior during periods of drought. Although a fast flier, it is rather a
quiet species, spending much of its time resting on banks and fallen logs
or floating lazily upon the water. Food : aquatic plants and animals.

Nest. — A flat structure, composed of grass and herbage; lined with
down. Generally well hidden among herbage growing in or near water,
and sometimes with a platform leading to it.

Eggs. — Five to seven or twelve, pale creamy-brown, the surface
being smooth and highly lustrous. Breeding-season : September to
November or December.

10. Pink-eared Duck Malacorhynchus niembranaceus Latham
Mal'-ac-o-rhynch'-us — Gk, malacos, soft; Gk, rhynchos ( rhugchos ), beak:
mcm-bra-nd'-cc-us — L., membranaceus, adj. from membrana, membrane.

Distribution. — Australia (except Western Australia south of North
West Cape) and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Zebra Duck, Pink-eyed Duck, and Widgeon.
Usually in pairs, occasionally in small flocks, frequenting chiefly shallow
lakes and swamps. It is mostly confined to the inland districts and only
occasionally visits the coast. Most of its food is procured by “shovelling”
about with its bill in the mud at the bottom of the water; it often keeps
its head under water for lengthy periods. Food: aquatic plants and
animals.

Nest . — A rounded mass of down plucked from the breasts of the
parent birds and placed among grass or herbage growing in water, or on
a deserted platform-shaped nest of another species. Not infrequently the
nest is placed some feet from the entrance of a hollow limb or hole in a
tree, from water-level up to a height of 20 feet or more.

Eggs. — Six to eight, creamy-white, the surface being dull. Breeding-
season : August to December.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

245

11. Whistling Tree-duck Dendrocygna arcuata Horsfield

Den-dro-cyg'-na — Gk, dendron, tree; Gk, cycnos, and L., cygnus, swan:
ar-cu-d-ta — L., arcuatus, curved like a bow.

Distribution. — Northern, eastern, and occasionally southern Australia;
also occurs in the Philippines to Malaysia, New Caledonia, and Oceania.

Notes. — Also called Whistling Duck and Tree-duck. Usually in
flocks, frequenting chiefly streams, lakes, or lagoons of the inland districts.
Most of its food is procured out on the plains, which it visits at night
resorting to streams and lakes during the day, where it rests and sleeps,
either on the water or in nearby trees. It is called Whistling Duck on
account of its whistling or piping call. Food: chiefly grass and other
herbage.

Nest. — A depression in the grass, without lining; often a great
distance from water.

Eggs. — Eight to twelve or more, creamy-white, slightly glossy, and
pointed at both ends. Breeding-season: February, March, May, and
November.

12. Plumed Tree-duck Dendrocygna eytoni Eyton
eytoni — T. C. Eyton (1809-1880), British ornithologist.

Distribution. — Northern, central, and occasionally southern Australia;
accidental to Tasmania and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Plumed Whistling Duck and Eyton’s Tree-duck.
Usually in flocks, frequenting chiefly streams, lakes, swamps, or water-
holes of the northern inland districts. It prefers shallow water near the
margins of streams or swamps, except during the breeding-season, when it
resorts to well-grassed lands some distance from water. It also perches
in trees. Like the Whistling Tree-duck, it has a loud whistling call.
Food : chiefly grass and other herbage.

Nest. — A slight hollow in the ground, lined with dried grassses ; placed
among grass or herbage growing upon plains, and generally far from
water.

Eggs. — Eight to twelve, pale cream colour, with a glossy surface;
sometimes stained or minutely spotted with light brown. Breeding-
season: September to December, occasionally as late as February.

13. White-headed Shelduck Tadorna radjah Garnot

Tad-orri-a — N.L., tadorna , from an Italian word for duck: radjah —
native name of the duck was said to be radja.

Distribution. — North-western Australia, Northern Territory, and
Queensland, accidental to New South Wales; also occurs in the Molucca
Islands and New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Burdekin Duck, Mangrove Duck, and White-
headed Shielduck. Usually in pairs or small flocks, frequenting lakes and
swamps. It prefers shallow water and often resorts to adjacent grass-lands

246

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

and mangrove swamps. Food : aquatic plants and animals, crabs, molluscs,
and other marine-life.

Nest. — In a hollow limb or hole in a tree.

Eggs . — Four to eleven, rich creamy-white, the surface being smooth
and slightly glossy. Breeding-season : December to February.

14. Chestnut-breasted Shelduck Casarca tadornoides Jardine and Selby

Cas-arc'-a — N.L., casarca , from a Russian word for goose : tad-orn-dld’-es
— N.L., tadorna, from an Italian word for duck, a specific name of an allied
species ; - oides , from Gk, eidos, form = like.

Distribution. — New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western
Australia (as far north as the Fitzroy River), and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Mountain-duck and Chestnut-coloured Shelduck.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting lakes, swamps, or open plains. It is
generally shy and wary and keeps far out on the shallow lakes or swamps ;
when disturbed, it rises quickly, uttering a harsh cry resembling “Chank,
chank, ,, and leaves the locality. Food : chiefly grass and other herbage,
also aquatic plants and animals.

Nest. — Composed of dried grasses and lined with down, usually placed
in a hollow limb, or hole in a tree, sometimes in or near water, often far
from it; at times it is placed on the ground or in a rabbit burrow.

Eggs. — Eight to fourteen, creamy-white, with a glossy surface.
Breeding-season : July to December.

15. Black Duck Anas superciliosa Gmelin

An -as — L., anas , anatis, duck; su-per-cil-i-ds-a — L., super ciliosus,
browed.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in the
Celebes, Java to the Pelew Islands, New Guinea to Tahiti, New Caledonia,
and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Grey Duck, Australian Wild Duck, Brown Duck,
and Parera. Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting streams, lakes, or
swamps both inland and coastal. It is the best known of our Ducks and is
fast becoming domesticated. Food: grass, herbage, and aquatic plants
and animals.

Nest . — An open structure, composed of dried grass, and lined with
feathers and down; placed in a variety of situations — on the ground among
rushes or grass growing near water, in herbage growing in a field far
from water, on a deserted platform-shaped nest of another species, or in
a hollow stump or limb of a tree.

Eggs. — Eight to thirteen, pale cream or creamy-white, occasionally
tinged with green, which soon becomes nest-stained, the surface being
smooth and slightly glossy. Breeding-season: in normal times, July to
December.

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS, AND SWAMPS

247

16. Blue- winged Shoveller Spatula rhynchotis Latham
Spat'-u-la — L., spatula , spoon: rhynch-o-tis — Gk, rhynchos, beak.

Distribution. — Southern Australia (from North West Cape, Western
Australia, to Richmond, Queensland), Tasmania, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Spoonbill-duck, Stinker, and Kuruwhengi.
Usually in pairs or flocks, frequenting swamps, lagoons, or freshwater
lakes, both near the coast and inland. It is very shy and wary,^ mostly
keeping to the open spaces in the swamps far out from the water s edge.
When flushed, it makes a peculiar whistling or humming noise with its
wings. Food: aquatic plants and animals.

Nest. — A slightly grass-lined depression in the ground, placed under
the shelter of a tussock of grass or clump of low herbage, sometimes out
on an open plain, but usually not far from water.

Eggs. — Four to eleven, creamy-white tinged with green, the surface
being slightly glossy. Breeding-season : August to December.

17. Musk Duck Biziura lobata Shaw

Bi-zi-ur-a — origin unknown : lob-d -ta — L., lobatus, lobed.

Distribution. — Southern Australia (from North West Cape, Western
Australia, to Rockhampton, central Queensland) and Tasmania.

Notes.— Also called Mould Goose. Usually singly or in pairs, occa-
sionally in small flocks, frequenting inland streams and lakes and inlets
of the coast. It is an interesting duck with many quaint habits; an old
drake will often amuse himself by throwing out jets of water on each
side with a rapid back-kick of his feet accompanied by a deep-toned note,
or will place his bill on his tail or throw back his head and, with pouch
inflated and tail spread, spin round and round on the water. Food:
aquatic plants and animals.

Nest.— A bulky structure placed among reeds and made by bending
down and interlacing the stems, forming a cup-shaped mass which is lined
with grass and down.

Eggs. — Three to six, pale green, the surface being rough and slightly
glossy. Breeding-season : August to December.

18. Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutjs Linne

Ixo-bry-chus—Gk, ixos, reed; Gk, brychein, to roar: min-U’-tus L.,
minutus, little.

Distribution. — Europe, Africa, Asia, coastal Australia (except the
southern and north-western portion), and New Zealand.

Notes.— Also called Minute Bittern and Kaoriki. Usually singly or
in pairs, frequenting the margins of streams, and swamps. It is remark-
ably shv and seclusive in habits, and difficult to flush. Generally it trusts
to a crouching or an upright posture, hoping to avoid observation. Food:
small fish and aquatic animals.

Nest . — An open structure, composed of dead pieces of aquatic plants

248

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

and grasses, and generally attached to reeds just above the surface of
the water.

Eggs. — Four, pure white, oval in form. Breeding-season: November.

19. Nankeen Night-heron Nycticorax caledonicus Gmelin
Nyc-ti-cor-ax — Gk, nyx, nyctos, night; Gk, corax, crow, raven: caledoni-
cus — of (New) Caledonia.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in the
Celebes, Timor to New Guinea, Bismarck Archipelago, New Caledonia,
and Lord Howe Island; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Nankeen Crane. Usually in pairs or flocks,
frequenting the margins of streams and swamps. It is a nocturnal feeder,
and is generally seen during the day roosting among the bushy limbs of
a tree growing in or near water, or it will remain well hidden in the tall
reeds of a swamp. Towards dusk it issues forth from cover, and flies
to its feeding-grounds. It utters a harsh croaking note during the night
or when disturbed at its roosting place. Food: yabbies, freshwater
molluscs, frogs, and aquatic insects.

Nest. — A scanty platform, composed of sticks, and generally placed
on a horizontal branch of a tree; river-oaks and willows are favourite
nesting-trees.

Eggs. — Two or three, occasionally four, pale bluish-green. Breeding-
season : September to January usually, but practically all the year round.

20. Mangrove Bittern Butorides striata Linne

Bu-to-n-des — Fr. but or, bittern; -oides, from Gk, eidos, form = like:
stri-a-ta — L., striatus, striped.

Distribution. — Coastal mid-western, northern, and eastern Australia,
as far south as New South Wales; also occurs in South America, the
Pacific Islands, Africa, India to Japan, and Malaysia.

Notes. — Also called Little Mangrove Bittern, Mangrove Heron, and
Green-backed Bittern. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting the muddy
foreshores and flats of inlets and rivers, more particularly localities thickly
covered with mangroves. It is generally seen skulking about the flats
seeking food, or perched among the branches of trees growing in or near
water. When disturbed, it utters a loud squawking note, and sometimes
adopts the stick-like attitude of other species of Bitterns, especially when
perched in a tree, hoping to avoid observation. Food : fish, crustaceans,
molluscs, and annelids.

Nest. — A loosely constructed platform, composed of sticks, and placed
in the branches of a tree, usually a mangrove, growing in or near water.

Eggs. — Three or four, pale bluish-green, the surface being dull and
lustreless. Breeding-season : September to December.

21. Red Mangrove Bittern Butorides rogersi Mathews

rogersi — John P. Rogers, collector for G. M. Mathews in north-western
Australia.

Distribution. — Mid-western Australia (Onslow).

Plate XXXIII

BIRDS OF THE LAKES, STREAMS AND SWAMPS

'

birds of the lakes, streams, and swamps

249

Notes. — It inhabits similar localities to those frequented by the Man-
grove Bittern, and is considered by many ornithologists to be only a red-
coloured phase of that species. It is also similar in habits and economy.

Nest. — Not recorded.

Eggs . — Not recorded.

22. Black Bittern Dupetor flavicollis Latham

Dil-pe-tor — Gk, dupetor , roarer: fldv-i-coll'-is — L., flavus, yellow; L.,
collum, neck.

Distribution. — Australia (except the southern portions); also occurs
in India, China, and Malaysia to New Guinea.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-necked Bittern and Yellow-necked Man-
grove Bittern. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting timbered margins
of streams, mangrove flats, and tree and reed-lined lakes and swamps.
It is more plentiful near the coast than inland; it is also more nocturnal
in habits than the Mangrove Bittern. During the day it is mostly seen
perched in a tree or resting among reeds, and when startled, generally
assumes the stick-like attitude common to all Bitterns. Food : fish, frogs,
and aquatic insects.

Nest.— A platform composed of sticks, placed in a fork of a horizontal
branch of a tree, and generally in a branch overhanging water.

Eggs . — Three to five, white, with a greenish tinge inside the shell.
Breeding-season: September to January.

23. Brown Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus Wagler

Bo-taur'-us — probably a combination of two Latin words for bull (bos,
taurus = botaurus ): pol-ci-lop -til-us — Gk, poicilos, mottled; Gk, ptilon,
feather.

Distribution.— Southern Australia (from Shark Bay, Western Aus-
tralia, to the Clarence River, New South Wales) and Tasmania; also
occurs in New Caledonia and New Zealand.

Notes.— Also called Australian Bittern, Black-backed Bittern,
Boomer, and Bull-bird. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting margins
of streams, lakes, and swamps. It is nocturnal in habits, and, keeping as
it does to the depths of a dismal swamp, is seldom seen during the day.
The “booming’’ call of this Bittern, which comprises three, rarely four,
deep booms, with a distinct interval between each, has been likened to the
bellowing of a bull, and is also generally connected with that fabulous
creature, the bunyip, said to dwell in the dark interiors of swamps and
other such weird places. Food : fish, frogs, yabbies, and aquatic animals
of all kinds.

Nest. — A platform made with bent-over and interlaced reeds and
rushes, and usually placed in the densest part of a swamp, about 6 inches
above the surface of the water.

Eggs. — Four or five, uniform pale olive-green, the surface being
smooth and lustrous. Breeding-season: October to January or February.

250

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

24. Pheasant-coucal Centropus phasianinus Latham

Ceri-tro-pus — Gk, centron , spur; Gk, pus ( pous ), podos, foot: pha-si-a-

ni-nus — L., phasianinus, pheasant-like.

Distribution. — Western Australia (as far south as the Ashburton
River), northern Australia, and eastern Australia (as far south as Malla-
coota Inlet).

Notes. — Also called Coucal and Swamp Pheasant. Usually singly or
in pairs, frequenting the margins of streams, lakes, and swamps, chiefly of
the coastal districts. It is shy and wary, and when flushed, generally flies
from tree to tree or drops like a stone to cover and passes swiftly through
the tall reeds and grasses. The loud whooping call, resembling “Coop,
coop,” or “Book, book,” repeated for long periods, is mostly uttered at
daybreak and at dusk. Food : frogs, small reptiles, aquatic insects, also
eggs and young of other birds.

Nest. — A large, globular structure built in a tussock of tall grass,
formed by drawing the tops of the grasses together, and lining the inside
with dried leaves ; often a pathway is built leading up to the entrance.
Sometimes nests are made in low bushes.

Eggs . — Three to five, dull white, the surface being smooth and
slightly lustrous. Breeding-season : November to March.

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SHORE

♦

Photo. .4. T ' . McCulloch
AN OCEAN HOME OF SEA BIRDS

SEA-SHORE HOME OF WADERS

Pholo. C. /^. Ha\ rctt

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

253

PLATE XXXIV

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

1. Knot Calidris canutus Linne

Cal-id'-ris — Gk, calidris (or scalidris) , kind of bird: canutus — King
Canute.

Distribution. — Siberia, migrating southwards to Africa, India, and
Ceylon, Australasia, and South America down the east coast to Brazil.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, visiting mainly the eastern and southern
coasts, where it frequents sand-flats or the muddy shores of inlets and
rivers. It arrives from the north during spring, and departs at the
beginning of autumn. Generally it is seen in small parties, and occasion-
ally in midsummer in very large flocks. It is usually very shy and wary,
and when flushed, instead of flying to another feeding-ground, it rises to
a great height and circles around.

Nest. — Merely a small hollow, apparently rudely shaped by the
nesting bird; placed in shallow depressions among the brown clumps of
Dryas integrifolia and Elyana bellardi which grow among the rubbles and
gravel of the high ridges (Calidris canutus rufus Wilson) ; north-western
Greenland (Crockerland Arctic Expedition).

Eggs. — Four, greenish-grey, covered with close, oblique spots of dark
reddish-brown, intermingled with underlying markings of greyish-violet
and greyish-blue, forming a zone at the larger end where there are a few
surface spots and streaks of dark blackish-brown (Calidris canutus).
Breeding-season: December (Otto Ottosson, M.D., Lenhofda, Sweden).

2. Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris Horsfield
ten-u-i-ros’-tris — L., tenuis , slender ; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — Eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to Australia.

Notes . — Usually in flocks, frequenting the shores and river margins
of the coastal areas of Western Australia, northern Australia, and Queens-
land. It is a spring and summer visitor to our shores, and little has been
recorded of its habits.

Nest. — A slight depression in short reindeer moss. Breeding-area
located at about 1500 feet elevation on a barren mountain ridge near the
mouth of the River Kolyma in north-eastern Siberia.

Eggs. — Four, greyish-yellow, uniformly and closely speckled with
reddish-brown markings, between which are underlying spots of lilac.
At the broad end of the egg the reddish-brown forms a distinct cap or zone
with a few twisted lines of a brown colour. Breeding-season: June.

254

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

3. Red-capped Dotterel Charadrius ruficapillus Temminck
Char-ad' -ri-us — Gk, charadrios, valley bird : rU-fi-cap-ill'-us — L., rufus,
red ; L., capillus , hair of the head.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; also occurs in
southern New Guinea; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Red-necked Plover and Sand-lark. Usually in
pairs or Hocks, frequenting the shores of inlets or the margins of lakes
and rivers. It is generally seen running with quick little strides along the
edge of the water, and if disturbed Hies a few paces away, alights, and
repeats these movements. Food : chiefly insects and small crustaceans.

Nest. — A depression in the sand, usually lined with broken pieces of
shell or tiny pebbles. Favourite sites are the crowns of slight ridges, not
far from water; this species has been known to nest two miles from the
nearest water.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale greenish, covered all over with dots and
lines of dark brown to purplish-black markings and a few underlying spots
of lavender. Breeding-season: August to December or January.

4. Black-fronted Dotterel Charadrius melanops Vieillot
mel'-an-ops — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, ops f face.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Sandpiper. Usually in pairs or family parties,
frequenting chiefly shingly and muddy banks of rivers, lakes, or water-
holes, also the shores of inlets. It is generally observed near the water’s
edge, along which it runs with great rapidity. When flushed, it rises
quickly, and frequently utters a plaintive note like “Chick chick.” Food:
aquatic insects, worms, and small crustaceans.

Nest . — A depression in the ground, favourite sites being shingly flats
of rivers, rarely far from the water.

Eggs. — Usually three, stone, or greyish-yellow, covered with various
shaped markings of brown and lavender. Breeding-season: September
to December (southern) ; April to September (northern).

5. Large Sand-dotterel Charadrius leschenaulti Lesson
leschenaulti — J. B. Leschenault de la Tour (1773-1826), French collector
and botanist.

Distribution. — Tibet and eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to
Africa and Australia; accidental to Europe.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, frequenting tidal salt creeks and the sea-
shore. It is common in north-western Australia during the summer
months, where it is generally observed on mud-banks and sandy or shingly
beaches. Little has been recorded of its habits and economy. An adult
in breeding plumage is coloured cinnamon-rufous on the crown of the
head, the hind-neck, and on a narrow collar round the fore-neck.

Nest. — A depression in the sand and fine shingle on the borders of a
lake (Mathews and Iredale).

Plate XXXIV

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

255

Eggs. — Four eggs? pale stone, heavily marked at the larger end, and
sparingly on the smaller end, with dark purplish-black and lavender spots ;
about the middle of the shell there are some spots of pale greenish-yellow ;
axis 40 mm., diameter 29 mm. (Mathews and Iredale). An egg from the
“Seebohm Collection.” Found breeding in south-east Kangai, in northern
Gobi, S.S.W. of Ulan-bator and on Lake Orok-nor, where they were
numerous.

6. Oriental Dotterel Charadrius veredus Gould
ver-e-dus — L., veredus. fleet.

Distribution. — Mongolia, migrating southwards to Australia (except
south-western Australia).

Notes. — Usually in flocks, arriving in Australia during September,
departing in March. It frequents the seashore and adjoining salt marshes,
also swampy areas inland. Like most of the Waders, its flight is swift
and often erratic, and characterized by zigzag turns in all directions.
When at rest it stands erect and motionless. It is extremely timid and
wary, and when disturbed utters a sharp whistling note. Food: insects,
worms, and small crustaceans. An adult in winter plumage differs in the
almost entire absence of chestnut and black on the fore-neck, chest, and
sides of breast.

Nest. — Not recorded.

Eggs . — Not recorded.

7- Mongolian Sand-dotterel Charadrius mongolus Pallas
mongolus — Mongolian.

Distribution. — Siberia, migrating southwards to Australia (except
southern Australia).

Notes. — Usually in flocks, arriving in Australia during September,
departing in March. It frequents alike salt marshes and swampy areas
inland. Little has been recorded of its habits and economy while on its
annual visits to Australia. Its call-note is a clear, penetrating “Drrrriit.”
Am adult in winter plumage lacks the cinnamon-rufous on the head and
hind-neck, and the rufous and black bands on the fore-neck.

Nest. — “A slight hollow in the ground. Lined with leaves and stems
of Angelica archangelica .” — Stejneger.

Eggs . — Three, cream-buff to clay colour; spotted, less numerously
at the smaller end, with markings of irregular size, chief!)’ of clove-brown,
bistre, and even as light as wood-brown. The lighter markings are gener-
ally rather obscure, appearing as if embedded in the shell or as though
laid on before the ground colour. Breeding-season: June (Siberia).

8. Double-banded Dotterel Charadrius bicinctus Jardine and Selby
bi-cinc-tus — L., bicinctus , twice banded.

Distribution . — Australia (except northern Australia) and Tasmania;
also occurs in New Zealand, Lord Howe Island, and Norfolk Island.

256

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Usually in small flocks, arriving from New Zealand during
March or April, departing in October; occasionally odd pairs have been
recorded during the summer months. It frequents chiefly seashores and
adjoining salt marshes, and is often in the company of the Red-capped
Dotterel. The call-note is a piping whistle, “Twit, twit.” Food: insects,
worms, and small crustaceans. An adult in winter plumage lacks the black
markings on the head and the chestnut and black bands on the lower throat
and breast.

Nest. — A depression in the gravel or shingle of a river-flat.

Eggs. — Three, greenish-brown, profusely sprinkled with dark brown
markings. Breeding-season: August and September to December. (Breeds
in New Zealand, but not in Australia.)

9. Hooded Dotterel Charadrius cucullatus Vieillot
cu-cul-la -tus — L., cucullatus, hooded.

Distribution. — Southern Australia and Tasmania.

Notes . — Usually in pairs or family parties, frequenting seashores. It
is generally seen running along sandy beaches just clear of the waves, or
.among the debris left by the tides. It is an active bird and appears to
be always on the move. Food: marine insects.

Nest. — A depression in the sand just above the tide mark and usually
among shingly stones, shells, or seaweed.

Eggs . — Two or three, pale stone colour, covered all over, but more
so at the larger end, with purplish-black and lavender markings. Breeding-
season : September or October to January.

10. Red-kneed Dotterel Erythrogonys cinctus Gould

E-ryth'-ro-gon-ys — Gk, erythros, red; Gk, gonys, knee; cine -tus — L.,
cinctus, banded.

Distribution. — Australia generally (except the coastal areas).

Notes. — Also called Sandpiper. Usually in pairs or small flocks, fre-
quenting the margins of swamps, lagoons, dams, and river-flats; it is
•seldom "observed far from water. It is always on the move, constantly
running backwards and forwards, then stopping suddenly to stand erect,
•or, with a quick jabbing thrust, striking at the ground in pursuit of its
food, which consists of insects, worms, and small crustaceans.

Nest. — A slight depression in the ground, occasionally in exposed
situations in the damp soil close to water, at other times among stones
some distance from water or in the shelter of a small bush or clump of
grass.

Eggs. — Usually four, varying from cream to light creamy-brown,
covered more or less with a network of fine wavy lines and irregular-
shaped freckles, spots, and blotches of black. Breeding-season: October
to December.

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

257

11. Oriental Pratincole Glare ola maldivarum Forster
Glar-e-ol'-a — L., glareolus, gravelly : maldivarum — of the Maidive Islands.

Distribution. — Eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to Australia
(except the south-western portion).

Notes. — Also called Little Storm-bird and Swallow Plover. Usually
in flocks, arriving in Australia during December or January, departing in
March or April. It frequents marshes, plains, and river-flats, and is often
in the company of the Australian Pratincole. Most of its food is caught
while on the wing, in a similar manner to that of Swifts. Food: insects,
chiefly beetles and grasshoppers.

Nest. — A depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Two, pale stone colour, marked all over with bold markings
of dark purplish-black and underlying ones of smoky-grey. Breeding-
season : April; May (eastern Siberia).

12. Terek Sandpiper Terekia ciner ea Giieldenstadt

Terekia — Terek River, flowing into the Caspian Sea: cin-er-ea — L., cine-
reusj ashen.

Distribution. — Northern Russia and Siberia, migrating southwards to
Africa, northern Australia, and Queensland.

Notes. — A rare species, usually in small flocks, arriving in Australia
during November or December, departing in March or April. It frequents
chiefly seashores and adjoining marshes, and is often in the company of
other Waders.

Nest. — A depression in the ground among grass.

Eggs. — Four, pale stone colour, sparingly covered all over, but more
so at the larger end, with blotches of dark purplish-red and underlying ones
of lavender. Breeding-season : June and July (northern Russia and
Siberia).

13. Wandering Tattler Tringa incana Gmelin

Tring-a — N.L., tringa , from Gk, tryngas, a species of bird: in-ca-na —
L., incanus, hoary.

Distribution. — Kamchatka, Aleutian Islands, and Alaska, migrating
southwards to Cape York, the islands of the Pacific, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Although there is only one authentic record of the occurrence
of this species in Australia, there is a probability of its being a regular
visitor to our northern shores. It is usually seen in pairs or small flocks,
frequenting stony beaches and rocky shores. Its flight is graceful and
very rapid; its call-note is loud and harsh, almost a scream.

Nest. — A compact structure, composed principally of fine roots care-
fully woven together, including a number of twigs around the edges and
lined with small bits of twigs and some dry leaves. Placed in a shallow
depression in a gravel bar about 30 feet from the nearest water. O 11 the

258

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Savage River, Alaska, July, 1923, at an elevation of about 4000 feet
(Olaus J. Murie).

Eggs.- — Four, varying between glaucous and greenish-glaucous,
spotted and blotched irregularly, rather heavily near the larger end and
rather sparsely elsewhere, with dark browns, from seal brown or bone
brown to burnt umber or Verona brown; there are some elongated
splashes and small, inconspicuous, underlying spots of various shades of
brownish-drab. Breeding-season: July, Alaska (Olaus J. Murie)

14. Grey-tailed Tattler 7 ringa brevipcs Vieillot
brev-i-pts — L., brevis , short ; L., pes, foot.

Distribution. — Eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to Australia.

Dotes. — Also called Grey-rumped Sandpiper. Usually in flocks,
arriving in Australia during September or October, departing in April or
May. It is generally observed frequenting mangrove swamps, rocky sea-
shores, sand-spits, and mud-banks, and is often in the company of other
Waders.

Nest. A depression in the ground. It breeds only in the Alpine-
(undra zone of the mountains in the Verkhoyansk Ranges (67° 30' N.,
134° 20' K.), towering between the basins of the Alden and Indigirka
rivers. The Indigirka River is in north-east Siberia; it rises in the Stanovoi
Mountains, flows W.N., and N.E. 1000 miles and enters the Arctic Ocean
at 71° N., 150° E.

Eggs. — Not recorded.

15. Greenshank Tringa ncbularia Gunnerus
neb-u-l&r'-i-o — L., nebularius, adjective from nebula (cloudy).

Distribution. — Northern Europe and northern Asia, migrating south-
wards to Africa, Australia (except central Australia), and Tasmania;
accidental to New Zealand.

Dotes. — Usually in small flocks, arriving in Australia during Sep-
tember or October, departing in March or April. It frequents mud-flats,
sand-spits, and salt marshes, and is often in the company of other Waders.
Generally it is extremely timid and wary, and when flushed flies off to a
more distant locality. Food : aquatic animals of various kinds.

Dest. — A depression in the grass.

Eggs . — Four, pale stone colour, covered with very dark red blotches
and underlying markings of lavender. Breeding-season: May and June
(northern Europe and northern Asia).

16. Common Sandpiper Tringa hypoleuca Linne
hy-po-lPilc'-a — Gk, hypo , under; Gk, leucos, white.

Distribution. — Europe and northern Asia, migrating southwards to
Africa. Australia, and Tasmania.

Dotes. — Also called Summer Snipe. Usually in flocks, arriving in

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

259

Australia during September or October, departing in March or April. It
frequents the foreshores of inlets, beaches, and the banks of rivers, and
is a fairly common species. At low tide it resorts to the uncovered
beaches, flats, and rocky foreshores, often in the company of other
Waders; during high tide it rests on the higher ground, mostly on rocks
near the water’s edge. When disturbed, it rises rapidly and flies some
distance away before settling again. Its call-note is a tremulous whistle.
Food : small aquatic animals.

Nest. — A depression in the grass or ground, lined with dead grass,
moss, or leaves.

Eggs. — Four, greyish or light creamy-buff, covered all over with
underlying spots of grey, and other markings, few and irregular, of deep
brown or coffee-brown. Breeding-season: June and July (Europe and
northern Asia).

17. Sanderling Crocethia alba Vroeg

Cro-ce-thi'-a — Gk, croce , shore; Gk, thio ( theio ), I run: al'-ba — L., albus,
white.

Distribution. — Arctic regions, migrating southwards to Patagonia,
South America, Africa, and Australia; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Usually in small flocks, frequenting the sandy seashores,
where it casually feeds in the company of other Waders. It has been
recorded in Australia during the greater part of the year, an important
fact, coinciding with similar records of this species in other parts of
the world.

Nest . — A depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Four, greenish-drab, spotted and blotched with reddish-grey,
brown, and blackish-brown markings. Breeding-season: not recorded
(breeds in the Arctic regions).

18. Red-necked Stint Erolia ruficollis Pallas

E-ro-li-a — derivation unknown: rU-fi-coll'-is — L., rufus, red; L., collum,
neck.

Distribution. — North-eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to India,
Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand.

Notes . — Also called Little Stint, Red-necked Sandpiper, Land-snipe,
and Little Dunlin. Usually in flocks, arriving in southern Australia about
July, departing in February. It frequents open marshy swamp-lands and
sea beaches, where it feeds on small marine crustaceans and aquatic insects
and worms. An adult in summer plumage has the entire head and neck
rufous and the back and scapulars rufous with dark centres.

Nest. — A cavity on a small mound of tundra lined with dry willow
leaves (W. Sprague Brooks, Providence Bay, north-eastern Siberia).

Eggs *. — Three and four; said to resemble those of the Spoonbill
Sandpiper Eurynorhynchus pygmeus Linnaeus (Joseph Dixon, 1918).
Breeding-season: June, north-eastern Siberia (W. Sprague Brooks).

26 o

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

19. Curlew-sandpiper Erolia testacea Vroeg

tes-ta-ce-a — L., testaccus , relating to tiles, i.e., in colour pattern.

Distribution. — Northern Siberia, migrating southwards to Africa,
Australia, and Tasmania; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Pygmy Curlew, Curlew-stint, and Curley-sand-
piper. Usually in small flocks, frequenting the seashores and adjacent
marshes. This species has been recorded in Australia during almost every
month of the year. It procures its food on sandy or muddy shores and
flats, usually making its appearance on the feeding-grounds as the tide
begins to fall, and following it outwards. At high tide it departs for
higher ground or adjacent marshes, where it rests until the ebb commences
again. Food: small crustaceans and worms.

Nest. — A depression in the ground.

Eggs. — Four, pale greenish-grey, spotted and blotched with rich deep
rufous-brown markings and with a few underlying spots of purplish-grey.
Breeding-season: June (northern Siberia).

20. Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Erolia acuminata Horsfield
ac-u-mm-a-ta — L., acurninatus , pointed, referring to the tail-feathers.

Distribution. — North-eastern Siberia and Alaska, migrating south-
wards to British Columbia, Hawaii, Australia, Tasmania, and New
Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Sharp-tailed Stint, Marsh Sandpiper, Siberian
Sandpiper, Asiatic Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, and Marsh Tringa.
Usually in flocks, arriving in southern Australia during September, depart-
ing in April or May. It frequents margins of salt marshes, mud and sand-
flats of inlets and rivers, and occasionally sea beaches; at times it is plenti-
ful in inland areas on the banks of swamps, rivers, and dams. When
flushed, it rises swiftly, and flies rapidly with an occasional turn; it also
has the towering flight of Snipe. Its call-note is a piping whistle. Food:
aquatic insects, small crustaceans, and worms.

Nest . — Not recorded.

Eggs . — Not recorded. Breeds in the north-eastern part of Asia — so
far as known, in north-eastern Siberia, migrating southwards during the
northern winter to New Guinea, Tonga Islands, Australia, Lord Howe
Island and New Zealand.

21. Grey Plover Squatarola squatarola Linne
Squat-ar-o-la — N.L. and Italian for this plover.

Distribution. — Arctic regions, migrating to Peru, Brazil, Africa,
Australia, and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Black-bellied Plover, Grey Sandpiper, and May-
cock. Usually singly, in pairs, or in small flocks, arriving in Australia
during September, departing in March or April. It frequents chiefly the
seashore and contiguous salt marshes or grassy flats ; this species is very

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

261

timid and wary. Its call-note is a piping whistle, not unlike that of the
Golden Plover, a species that it resembles in habits and economy.

Nest. — A depression in the earth, lined with dry leaves and lichen.

Eggs. — Four, yellowish-grey to brownish-yellow, covered with dark
brown spots. Breeding-season: June and July (breeds in the Arctic
regions).

22. Golden Plover Pluvialis dominions P. L. S. Muller
Plu-vi-a-lis — L., pluvialis , belonging to rain (i.e., spotted) : dominions —
island of San Domingo, West Indies.

Distribution. — North-eastern Siberia and Alaska, migrating to the
Argentina, the islands of the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand, Australia, and
Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Eastern Golden Plover, Pacific Golden Plover,
Lesser Golden Plover, and Australian Golden Plover. Usually in flocks,
arriving in southern Australia during September and October, departing
in March or April. It frequents sea beaches, mud and sand-flats of inlets
and rivers, salt marshes, and grassy flats. During low tide it feeds along
the mud and sand-flats, leaving for the marshes and grassy flats as the tide
rises. It is much tamer than the other species of Waders, and is common
along the foreshores of our harbours. Food: insects, small crustaceans,
and worms.

Nest. — A mere hollow in the ground upon a piece of turfy land,
overgrown with moss and lichen, and lined with broken stalks of reindeer
moss.

Eggs. — Four, pale buff, spotted and blotched with rich purplish-brown
markings, with a few underlying ones of inky-grey. Breeding-season:
June and July (north-eastern Siberia and Alaska).

23. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Linne
Lvm-ds-a — L., limosus , marshy : lapponica — of Lapland.

Distribution. — Northern Europe and northern Asia, migrating to
tropical Africa, northern India, Malaysia, Australia, Tasmania, New
Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.

Notes. — Also called Barred-rumped Godwit, Pacific Godwit, and
Kuaka. Usually in small flocks, arriving in Australia during October,
departing in April. It frequents chiefly the mud and sand-flats of inlets
or rivers, also the seashore, and is often in the company of other Waders.
It is exceptionally wary and by no means plentiful. Food: small crusta-
ceans and worms.

Nest. — A depression in the grass.

Eggs. — Four, deep greenish drab to pale drab, covered with irregular
blotches and spots of pale umber-brown. Breeding-season : June and July
(northern Europe and northern Asia).

262

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

24. Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Linne
Itm-ds'-a — L., limosus, marshy.

Distribution. — Northern Europe and northern Asia, migrating south-
wards to northern Africa, India, Australia, and Tasmania; accidental to
New Zealand.

Notes. — Usually singly, in pairs, or very small flocks, arriving in
Australia during October, departing in March or April. It frequents
chiefly mud and sand-flats near the entrance of inlets or rivers and the
margins of shallow salt marshes; it is generally in the company of the
Bar-tailed Godwit — a species very similar to its black-tailed relative. The
latter, however, has a more upright carriage, longer legs, and white lower
rump. In habits and economy it resembles the Bar-tailed Godwit, but is
much rarer than that species.

Nest. — A depression in the grass.

Eggs. — Four, pale olive-green to pale yellowish, covered all over with
small spots of a more or less olive-brown, some markings on the larger
end being of an indistinct olive-grey to reddish-grey. Breeding-season:
June? and July (northern Europe and northern Asia).

25. Curlew Numenius cyanopus Vieillot

Nu-meri-i-us — Gk, numenios, kind of curlew, from Gk, neos, new; Gk,
mene, moon (i.e. shape of bill) : cy-an-o-pus — Gk, cyanos , blue; Gk, pous
(pus), foot.

Distribution. — Eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to Australia
and Tasmania; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Sea-curlew, Australian Curlew, and Curlew-
whelp. Usually in flocks, arriving in Australia during September, depart-
ing in March or April; odd birds, however, remain throughout the year.
It frequents sea beaches or mud and sand-flats near the entrance of inlets
and rivers. At all times it is exceptionally timid and wary, generally
keeping far out on the flats or beaches. Its call resembles “Ker-loo,”
or “Kor-lew,” and is often uttered at night or when alarmed. Food :
small crustaceans and worms.

Nest. — A hollow scooped in the ground, untidily lined with grass
or leaves, and placed among low bushes or rushes; generally high, open
ground is selected as a nesting-site.

Eggs . — Four, dull olive-green, blotched and spotted with greenish-
brown markings. Breeding-season: June and July (eastern Siberia).

26. Whimbrel Numenius phceopus Linne
phce'-o-pus — Gk, phaios , grey; Gk, pous (pus), foot.

Distribution . — Northern Europe and northern Asia, migrating south-
wards to Africa, Australia, and Tasmania; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Jack Curlew, Australian Whimbrel, and May-
fowl. Usually in flocks, arriving in Australia during September or
October, departing in March or April. It frequents sea beaches, mud and

BIRDS OF THE SHORES AND RIVER MARGINS

263

sand-flats of tidal waters, or salt marshes, often in the company of the
Curlew. Its call-note is a high, clear, short whistle, repeated seven or
eight times in a descending scale of semitones. Food : small crustaceans,
worms, and aquatic insects.

Nest . — A hollow scooped in the ground, scantily lined with grass, and
generally placed on a hummock or mound, mostly a bare one, in an
exposed situation.

Eggs. — Four, pale olive, blotched and spotted with greenish-brown
and brown markings. Breeding-season: June and July (northern Europe
and northern Asia).

27. Little Whimbrel Mcsoscolopax minutus Gould

M es-o-scol' -o-pax — Gk, mesos, intermediate; Gk, scolopax, snipe: min-u'-
tus — L., minutus , little.

Distribution. — Eastern Siberia, migrating southwards to Australia
and Tasmania; accidental to New Zealand.

Notes. — Usually in flocks, arriving in Australia during September or
October, departing in March or April. For the most part it frequents
open plains and the margins of swamps and marshes, but is also observed
on mud and sand-flats of tidal waters. When disturbed, it utters a loud
“Teo, teo,” more like a wail than a whistle. Food: insects (chiefly
grasshoppers), worms, and seeds.

Nest . — Not recorded.

Eggs. — Not recorded. Breeds evidently on Upper Yana (near Ver-
koyansk, about 67^° N.) and middle Lena; not farther south than 59° N.

28. Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinella Brunnich
Li-mic-o-la — L., limus, marsh; L., colere, to inhabit: fal-cin-ell'-a — L.,
falcinella , little scythe.

Distribution. — Arctic regions, Europe, and Asia, migrating south-
wards to northern Africa and China; accidental to the Molucca Islands
and Australia.

Notes. — There are few records of the occurrence of this species in
Australia, and nothing has been published concerning its habits while
wintering here. It was first observed in north-western Australia ; later in
the Northern Territory; and there is a specimen which was collected at
Botany Bay in December 1916. Perhaps it visits us annually, but has been
overlooked. It frequents fresh and salt-water marshes as well as the sea-
shore, and when on migration usually travels in small flocks.

Nest. — A hollow (rather deep for a Wader) scooped in the ground,
and lined with dry grass. Generally placed on a low sedge-clothed hum-
mock, in an open grassy part of a mountain marsh.

Eggs. — Four, stone-buff to brown, mottled and spotted with “neutral
tint” and dark brown markings. Breeding-season: June (breeds in the
Arctic regions, Europe, and Asia).

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

264

29. Turnstone Arenaria interpres Linne

Ar-cn-ar'-ia — L., arenarius, Belonging to sand: in-ter-pres — L., interpres,
go between.

Distribution , — Arctic regions, migrating southwards to Chile, Africa,
Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Sea-dotterel, Beach-bird, Calico-bird, and Eastern
Turnstone. Usually in small flocks, arriving in Australia during Sep-
tember or October, departing in March or April; odd pairs remain
throughout the year, it frequents sea beaches, feeding upon small marine
animals at low tide, and resting on nearby rocks when the tide is high. It
may be identified from the other smaller Waders by its habit of turning
over small stones and shells with its bill.

Nest. — A slight depression in the ground, sometimes lined with grass.

Eggs . — Four, pale green, covered all over, but more so on the larger
end, with irregular-shaped markings of olive-brown and lavender.
Breeding-season: June and July (breeds in the Arctic regions).

30. Beach Stone-curlew Orthorhamphus magnirostris Vieillot
Or-tho-rhamph'-us — Gk, orthos, straight; Gk, rharnphos, bill: mag-ni-ros -
tris — L., magnus, great ; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — Northern Australia, from Shark Bay (Western Aus-
tralia) to Morcton Bay (Queensland) ; also occurs in the Andaman Islands,
Malay Archipelago, Borneo, New Guinea, and New Caledonia.

Notes. — Also called Large-billed Shore-plover and Australian Long-
billed Plover. Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting mud and sandy
seashores of the mainland or islands off the coast. Its call is very similar
to that of the Eastern Stone-curlew, but harsher in tone. Food: small
crustaceans and shell-fish.

Nest. — None made, the eggs being laid on the sand, generally just
above high-tide mark.

Eggs. — One or two, creamy- white, covered with irregular-shaped
streaks and blotches of dark olive-brown; some of the markings are large
and bold, and others mere blotches. Breeding-season: October.

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

265

PLATE XXXV

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

1. Wilson’s Storm-petrel Oceanites oceanicus Kuhl
6-ce-an-i-tes — Gk, oceanites, son of Ocean : d-ce-ari-ic-us — L. f oceanicus ,
of the ocean.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, to Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand,
and New Caledonia, ranging north to California, Labrador, the British
Isles, and India.

Motes. — Also called Mother Carey's Chicken, Yellow- webbed Storm-
petrel, and Flat-clawed Storm-petrel. Usually in flocks, generally seen
flying close to the surface of the water, and occasionally to and fro across
the wake of a ship. Its flight is usually very erratic, somewhat like that of
a butterfly, and it often aids its progress by patting the water with its
feet, bounding along with a series of leaps. Its food consists chiefly of
small plankton organisms procured from the surface of the water, the fat
from dead whales or seals, and refuse from ships' galleys. Breeds in
colonies in Antarctica, on islets off Cape Horn, on the South Shetlands,
South Orkneys, and South Georgia, and Kerguelen and Heard Islands.

Nest. — In a chamber at the end of a tunnel; lined with feathers.

Egg. — Dull white, sometimes sparingly dotted with reddish spots;
occasionally these spots form a ring round the larger end. Breeding-
season : December to February.

2, Grey-backed Storm-petrel Garrodia nereis Gould

Garrodia — A. H. Garrod (1846-18 79), anatomist and ornithologist.
Prosector to the Zoological Society, London : ne-re-is — Gk, nereis ,
Nereid, sea-nymph.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, to South Georgia, the Falkland
Islands, New Zealand, Tasmania, and south-eastern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Mother Carey's Chicken. Usually in flocks;
it is similar in habits and economy to Wilson's Storm-petrel. Breeds in
colonies on South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, Kerguelen Island, and
New Zealand, and the Chatham, Bounty, and Auckland Islands.

Nest. — In a chamber at the end of a tunnel. The burrow is about 18
inches in length, and resembles a rat-hole.

Egg . — White, covered with -fine deep reddish-brown and lavender
dots at the larger end, and with a few reddish ones sparingly distributed
over the rest of the surface. Breeding-season : November to January.

266

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

3. White-faced Storm-petrel Pelagodroma marina Latham

Pel'-a-go-droiri-a — Gk, pclagodromos, sea-running : mar-i-na — L., mari-
nus, of the sea.

Distribution . — Atlantic, Indian, and South Pacific Oceans.

Notes. — Also called White-breasted Storm-petrel, Frigate-petrel, and
Mother Carey’s Chicken. Usually in flocks, frequenting the seas of south-
western, south-eastern, and southern Australia, and Tasmania. It is similar
in habits to the other Storm-petrels, from which it may be distinguished
by its white under-surface. Breeds in colonies on islands along the coasts
of its Australian range; also on the North Island of New Zealand, the
Auckland, Chatham, and Kermadcc Islands, Tristan da Cunha, and the
Salvage, Canary, and Cape Verde Islands.

Nest. In a chamber at the end of a burrow.

Egg .- — White, occasionally with the larger end thickly speckled with
reddish spots, and at times speckled all over with the same colour inter-
mingled with a few blackish streaks about the larger end. Breeding-
season: October to December (southern hemisphere); March to April
(northern hemisphere).

4. Gould’s Storm-petrel Frege tta tropica Gould

FrP-get'-ta— NX., fregetta, altered from fregata , a frigate: trop’-i-ca —
L., tropicus, tropical.

Distribution . — Southern oceans, north to the tropics.

Notes . — Also called Black-bellied Storm-petrel and Mother Carey's
Chicken. Usually in flocks, frequenting the seas of southern Australia and
Tasmania. It is similar in habits and economy to the other Storm-petrels.
Breeds in colonies on Tristan da Cunha, the South Sliet lands, South
Orkneys, Falkland Islands, and South Georgia, and Kerguelen, the Crozet,
St Paul, Amsterdam, and Bounty Islands.

Nest — In a crevice among rocks.

Egg . — Dull white, minutely and sparingly dotted all over with small
pink spots. Breeding-season: December.

5. Little Shearwater Puffinus assimilis Gould

Puff* -in-us— N.L., puffinus , puffin : as-sim'-i-lis — L., assimilis , similar.

Distribution. Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, chiefly in tropical
or sub-tropical latitudes, occasionally ranging farther north or south.

Notes, — Also called Allied Shearwater, Allied Petrel, and Dusky
Shearwater. Usually in flocks, frequenting the seas of south-western
Australia. During the day it does not range far from its breeding-ground,
either resting on the surface of the water, or flying around seeking food,
which consists of small fish, squids, crustaceans, and other floating or
surface-living animals. Breeds in colonies on Lord Howe and Norfolk
Islands; also on islands elsewhere in the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic
Oceans.

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

267

Nest . — In a natural crevice or in a shallow burrow.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season: July and August (Norfolk
Island) ; throughout the year in most localities.

6. Fluttering Shearwater Puffinus gavia Forster
gav-i-a — N.L., gavia, a kind of gull.

Distribution. — The seas of New Zealand, ranging to south-eastern
and southern Australia.

Notes. — Also called Brown-backed Petrel. Usually in flocks, fre-
quenting chiefly the seas off the south coast of New South Wales. It is
similar in habits and economy to the Little Shearwater. Breeds on both
islands of New Zealand and on Snares Island.

Nest. — In a chamber at the end of a burrow ; lined with a few leaves.
Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season: October.

7. Great-winged Petrel Pterodroma macroptera Smith

Pter-o-drom-a — Gk, pteron, wing; Gk, dromos, running: mac-rop'-ter-a
— Gk, macros, large; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution . — Southern oceans, between latitudes 50° S. and 30° S.
Notes. — Also called Grey-faced Petrel. Usually in flocks, frequent-
ing the seas off the south-western coast of Australia. It is similar in
habits and economy to the Shearwaters. Breeds in colonies on islands
off the south coast of Western Australia; also on the North Island of New
Zealand, Tristan da Cunha, and Kerguelen and the Crozet Islands.

Nest . — In a large chamber at the end of a burrow; lined with a few
leaves and grass.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season : July to September.

8. Soft-plumaged Petrel Pterodroma mollis Gould
moV-lis — L., mollis, soft.

Distribution . — Atlantic and Indian Oceans, to latitude 50° S.

Notes. — A rare visitor to the seas of south-western Australia. It is
similar in habits and economy to the Soft-plumaged Petrel. Breeds on
Madeira and Cape Verde Islands, Tristan da Cunha, and Gough, Ker-
guelen, and St Paul Islands.

Nest. — In a chamber at the end of a burrow.

Egg— White. Breeding-season: June, July, and October (northern
hemisphere).

9. White-headed Petrel Pterodroma lessoni Garnot

lessoni — R. P. Lesson, French ornithologist (1794-1849).

Distribution . — Southern oceans, from Antarctica to about latitude
33° S.

268

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes. — Frequents the seas of south-western and southern Australia
and Tasmania. It is similar in habits and economy to the other members
of the genus. Breeds in colonies on the Kerguelen, Bounty, Auckland,
and Antipodes Islands.

Nest. — In a large chamber at the end of a burrow.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season : December and January.

10. While-winged Petrel Pterodroma leucoptera Gould
leuc-op'-ter-a — Gk, leucos, white; Gk, pteron , wing.

Distribution. — Seas of New South Wales.

Notes. — Also called Gould’s Petrel. It breeds on Cabbage-tree Island,
off Port Stephens. This species does not make a burrow, otherwise it is
similar in habits and economy to the other members of the genus. It is
closely related to a form ( P.l.masofuerce ) which ranges to the coast of
Chile, and breeds on the Fiji Islands and Masafuera (Juan Fernandez).

Nest. — A depression in the ground or a crevice among loose stones;
lined with a small quantity of broken pieces of dead fronds of the cabbage-
palm.

Egg . — Soft chalky-white. Breeding-season: November and December.

11. Cape Petrel Daption capense Linne

Dap'-ti-on — anagram of pintado , a Portuguese word for painted: capense
— L., cape ns is, of the Cape (of Good Hope).

Distribution — Southern oceans, from Antarctica north to Brazil,
Angola, Mozambique, Australia, the Marquesas Islands, and Peru, occa-
sionally ranging farther north to Mexico, Ceylon, the United States, and
Europe.

Notes . — Also called Pintado Petrel, Black-and-white Petrel, Spotted
Petrel, Pied Petrel, and Cape Pigeon. Usually in flocks, frequenting the
seas of southern Australia. This bird is commonly seen following ships,
and is easily distinguished by its boldly mottled plumage. Food : similar to
that of other Petrels. Breeds in colonies in Antarctica, and on the South
Shetlands, South Orkneys, South Georgia, and Kerguelen Island.

Nest. — A slight structure, composed of a few small stones and a
little earth, placed on a ledge of a cliff.

Egg. — Pure white. Breeding-season : November to May.

12. Blue Petrel Halobcena ccerulca Gmelin

Hal-o-bcEn-a — Gk, hols, sea; Gk, bainein, to walk: cce-rul'-e-a — L.,
cceruleiis, blue.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, from Antarctica north to latitude
40° S., and occasionally to Tristan da Cunha, the Cape of Good Hope,
southern Australia, New Zealand, and the Fiji Islands.

Notes. — A rare visitor to the seas of southern Australia; very little
is known of its habits. When on the wing it is difficult to distinguish from
the Prions. Breeds on the Falkland Islands and Kerguelen Island.

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

269

Nest. — In a large cavity at the end of a burrow, lined with fine root-
fibres, twigs, ferns, or leaves. Burrows are generally made beneath plants
growing on hillsides, and often connect and form other entrances to the
nesting-chamber.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season: October and November.

13. Broad-billed Prion Pachyptila vittata Gmelin

Pach-y-ptil'-a — Gk, pachys, thick; Gk, ptilon , feather: vit-ta-ta — L.,
vit tains, banded.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, between latitudes 60° S. and 40° S.,
occasionally north to Madagascar and Reunion Island.

Notes. — Also called Dove-petrel, Whale-bird, and Ice-bird. Usually
in flocks, frequenting the seas of southern Australia and Tasmania. It is
usually seen in flocks flying swiftly over the surface of the water.
Occasionally during stormy weather numbers of this species are washed up
on the beaches along the coast of New South Wales. Its food consists
chiefly of plankton organisms, procured from the surface of the sea.
Breeds in colonies on the Chatham Islands and on South Georgia, Tristan
da Cunha, and Gough, the Crozet, Marion, and St Paul Islands.

Nest . — In a chamber hollowed out at the end of a rat-like burrow
made in slanting soil ; in a natural cavity in rocks ; or under densely matted
stems and roots of pig-face weed.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season : September and October, and January.

14. Fairy Prion Pachyptila turtur Kuhl
tur-tur — L., turtur , dove.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, between latitudes 60° S. and 35° S.,
occasionally north to Madeira.

Notes— Also called Dove-petrel, Whale-bird, and Short-billed Prion.
Usually in flocks, frequenting the seas of southern and south-eastern
Australia, and Tasmania. It is similar in habits and economy to the other
species of Prions. Breeds in colonies on islands in Bass Strait and on
the Kerguelen, Chatham, Bounty, and Antipodes Islands.

Nest. — In a natural cavity in rocks or under densely matted stems and
roots of pig-face weed.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season: October to December.

15. Dove-prion Pachyptila desolata Gmelin
desolata — Isle of Desolation, now Kerguelen Island.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, between latitudes 60°S. and 35°S. ;
occasionally north to the Malay Archipelago.

Notes . — Also called Banks’s Petrel and Whale-bird. Usually in flocks,
frequenting the seas of southern Australia, and Tasmania. It. is similar
in habits and economy to the other species of Prions. Breeds in colonies
on Lawrence Rocks, Portland, Victoria, also on the South Orkneys, South
Georgia, and Kerguelen, Auckland, Antipodes, and Macquarie Islands.
Nest. — In a cavity at the end of a burrow.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season : November to February.

270

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

16. Diving-petrel Pelecanoides urinatrix Gmelin

PeV-e-can-oid'-es — Gk, pelican, pelican; -aides, from Gk, eidos, form *=»
like: u-rl-na -trix , L., urinatrix , diver (feminine form).

Distribution . — Southern oceans, between latitudes 35° S. and 55° S.,
ranging from the islands of Bass Strait, and the coasts of Victoria, Tas-
mania, and New Zealand, to the coast of South America.

Notes. — Also called Smaller Diving-petrel and Common Diving-petrel.
Usually seen singly or in small scattered flocks, resting on the surface of
the water, or diving for its food, which consists of small fishes, crustaceans,
and other marine organisms. Breeds in colonies on islands of Bass Strait,
on the coast of New Zealand, and on the Chatham, Bounty, Antipodes,
Snares, and Auckland Islands, Tristan da Cunha, and Gough and Falk-
land Islands.

Nest. — In a cavity at the end of a crooked burrow.

Egg* — White. Breeding-season: July to November.

17. Caspian Tern Hydroproyne caspia Pallas

Hy-dro-prog-ne — water-swallow, from Gk, hydor , water; and Progne or
Procne, a daughter of Pandion, King of Athens, changed by the gods into
a swallow (mythology) : caspia — of the Caspian Sea.

Distribution. — Australia and Tasmania; also occurs in North
America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and New Zealand.

Notes . — Usually in pairs, occasionally in small flocks, frequenting
chiefly the coasts and adjacent islands. It is easily distinguished by its
large size, large, stout, red bill, and black forehead and crown. Like the
other species of Terns it feeds almost entirely on small fishes, which it
obtains when they are near the surface by plunging down from the air.
In Australia this species does not breed in colonies, as do most other
Terns, but generally in isolated pairs. Breeds usually on islands, and
occasionally on headlands along the coast. It is one of the few Terns that
range to inland lakes.

Nest. — A depression in the sand.

Eggs. — Two, sometimes three, dull yellowish-stone or greenish-grey,
covered with irregular-shaped freckles, spots, and blotches of umber and
blackish-brown, with a few underlying markings of dull grey or inky-grey.
On some eggs the markings are larger and more numerous at the larger
end, and on others the underlying markings are plentifully distributed over
the whole surface. Breeding-season: October to February (southern
Australia and Tasmania) ; March, May, August, September, and Novem-
ber (north-western Australia).

18. White-fronted Tern Sterna striata Gmelin

Stern -a — N.L., sterna, gull: stri-a-ta — L., striatus, striped.

Distribution. — The eastern coast of Australia, and Tasmania; also
occurs in the Molucca Islands, New Zealand, and Auckland, Campbell,
Chatham, Fiji, and Tonga Islands.

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

271

Notes . — Also called Southern White-fronted Tern. This species is
not common, generally being seen in small flocks flying over the waters
of harbours and bays ; similar in habits and economy to the other species
of Terns. It breeds in colonies on islands off the south-eastern coast of
Tasmania, on Auckland and Chatham Islands, and in New Zealand.

Nest . — A depression in the sand or gravel; generally on beaches, just
above high-water mark.

Eggs. — Two, varying from faint yellowish-stone to very pale green-
ish-grey or pale coffee-brown, covered with irregular-shaped dots, spots,
and blotches, and a few hair-like lines of sepia and brownish-black, and
underlying markings of grey. The markings vary considerably, being
either evenly distributed or large and confluent. Breeding-season :
November and December.

19. Crested Tern Sterna bergii Lichtenstein
bergii — C. H. Bergius, Swedish scientist.

Distribution . — Indian and western Pacific Oceans, from the Cape of
Good Hope along eastern Africa to the Red Sea, southern Asia to Japan
and the Hawaiian Islands, and to the Fiji Islands, Australia, and
Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Swift Tern, Ruppell Tern, Bass Strait Tern,
Torres Strait Tern, and Village Blacksmith. This is the commonest Tern
seen on the coasts and inlets of Australia and Tasmania, and next to the
Caspian Tern is the largest species inhabiting our seas. It is similar in
habits and economy to the other species of Terns. Breeds in large colonies
on islands off the coasts throughout its range.

Nest . — A depression in the sand or earth.

Eggs. — One, occasionally two, light to dark stone, boldly spotted and
blotched with rich umber and brownish-black, and underlying markings of
pale lavender. The eggs vary considerably in the ground colour and the
shape and colour of the markings, the egg described above being perhaps
the commonest type. Breeding-season: October to January (Australia
and Tasmania).

20. Lesser Crested Tern Sterna bengalcnsis Lesson
bengalensis — of the Bay of Bengal.

Distribution .— Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, eastern coast of Africa to
Durban, Madagascar, and islands of the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf,
Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, Malay Archipelago, and China, to the Aru
Islands and northern Australia.

Notes . — This species is much shyer than the other species of Terns,
otherwise it is similar to them in habits and economy. It may be dis-
tinguished from the Crested Tern by its smaller size, orange-yellow bill,
and black forehead. Breeds in colonies on islands off the coasts throughout
its range.

272

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Nest. — A depression in the ground; generally on bare ground sur-
rounded with herbage.

Egg. — One, varying from white to reddish- white, covered with evenly
distributed dots, spots and blotches of purplish and reddish-brown and
underlying markings of grey. The markings vary considerably in shape
and colour, some eggs being sparingly marked, while others have the
markings chiefly about the larger end. Breeding-season: May to
November.

21. Little Tern Sterna albifrons Vroeg

al' -bi-frons — L., albus, white ; L., frons, forehead.

Distribution. — Europe, Africa, and southern Asia, to China and
northern and eastern Australia (from Derby, north-western Australia, to
Mallacoota Inlet, Victoria).

Notes. — Also called White-shafted Ternlet, Black-lored Tern, and
Sea-swallow. Usually in flocks, frequenting chiefly inlets and sea beaches.
Sand-spits near the entrance of inlets appear to be its favourite nesting-
sites, and it also breeds on beaches of islands near the coast-line.

Nest. — A depression in the sand ; generally on sand-spits or beaches,
just above high-water mark.

Eggs. — Usually two, varying from dull white or creamy-white to
stone-grey or pale coffee-brown, with dots, spots, small penumbral blotches
of blackish-brown, umber, and dark slate-grey, and underlying markings
of pale grey. Breeding season : October to January or February.

22. Fairy Tern Sterna nereis Gould
ne-re-is — Gk, nereis , Nereid, sea-nymph.

Distribution. — Western and southern coasts of Australia (from
Broome to Melbourne), Tasmania, New Caledonia, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called White-faced Ternlet, Little Tern, and Sea-
swallow. It is similar in habits and economy to the Little Tern, from
which it may be distinguished by its slightly larger size, paler upper-parts,
less black before the eye, and bright yellow bill. Breeds in colonies in
similar situations to those selected by the Little Tern.

Nest. — A depression in the sand.

Eggs. — Usually two, very similar to those of the Little Tern.
Breeding-season : November to January or February.

23. Black-naped Tern Sterna sumatrana Raffles
sumatrana — of Sumatra.

Distribution. — Tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans, from the Anda-
mans and Malay Archipelago to China, northern Australia, New Caledonia,
and the Fiji Islands.

Notes. — Usually in pairs, or fishing in association with Noddies and
Bridled Terns, frequenting the islands lying between the Great Barrier

Plate XXXV

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEA-SHORE

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

273

Reef and the north-eastern coast of Queensland and those of Torres
Strait. It is similar in habits and economy to the other species of Terns.
Breeds in colonies on coral islands throughout its range, and often ini
association with the Roseate Tern.

Nest. — A depression in coral fragments or in the sand; generally
placed just above high-water mark.

Eggs . — Usually two, white or pale creamy-white, over which are dis-
tributed irregular-shaped freckles, spots, and blotches of brownish, reddish,
or purplish-black, purplish-grey, or dark umber, with underlying markings
of lavender. The markings vary considerably in shape, colour, and distri-
bution. Breeding-season: September to December (north-eastern

Australia).

24. Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata Linne
fus-ca-ta — L., fuscatus, darkened.

Distribution. — The coast of mid-western to northern and eastern
Australia (as far south as New South Wales) ; occurs generally throughout:
tropical and sub-tropical seas.

Notes. — Also called Wide-awake Tern, Whale-bird, and Egg-bird.
Usually in large flocks, often in company with other species of Terns,,
frequenting chiefly the seas in the vicinity of islands on which it breeds.
Breeds in immense colonies on islands throughout its range. Immature
birds have the feathers sooty-brown above, the mantle being tipped with»
white and the under-parts lighter than in the adult.

Nest. — The egg may be deposited on the bare ground or grass, under
the shelter of a tussock of grass, or exposed on earth, sandy soil, or bare
rock.

Egg. — One, varying considerably in colour and markings, the com-
monest being dull white or faint reddish-white, spotted, freckled, or
blotched, more or less over the entire surface, with different shades of
red, reddish-brown, and purplish-red markings. Breeding-season : Octo-
ber to January; throughout the year in different localities.

25. Bridled Tern Sterna ancetheta Scopoli
an-ce-the-ta — Gk, anaisthetos, without sense.

Distribution. — The coasts of Western Australia, northern Australia*
and eastern Australia, to as far south as the Bunker Group and Lady
Elliott Island; occurs generally throughout tropical and sub-tropical seas.

Notes. — Also called Brown-winged Tern, Panayan Tern, Smaller
Sooty Tern, and Dog Tern. Usually in flocks, frequenting the seas in
the vicinity of islands on which it breeds; similar in habits and economy
to the other species of Terns. Its note is somewhat like the “yap-yapping”
of a puppy, hence the local name of Dog Tern.

Nest. — A depression scraped in the sand, well concealed under a
tussock of grass ; sometimes in a crevice between rocks, or under bushes.

-74

I UK BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

E(j(j. One, varying considerably in colour and markings, a common
type being (lull white uniformly covered with dots, freckles, spots, and a
few irregular-shaped blotches of reddish-purple and faint underlying
markings of dull purplish-grey. Breeding-season: September to January
( Australia).

26. Noddy Anous stolid us Linne

An -Mis Ck, anous, senseless: stol'-i-dus — L., stolidus, stupid.

Distribution. The coast of mid-western, northern, and north-eastern
Australia ((ireat Barrier Reef); occurs in tropical and sub-tropical seas
(except the west coast of South America), occasionally ranging to Ber-
muda and the British Isles.

Notes. Also called Common Noddy. Usually in immense flocks
frequenting the seas in the vicinity of its breeding-places. It procures
its food, consisting of small fishes, squids, and other marine animals, mostly
from the surface of tlu* open seas beyond the reefs, rarely fishing on the
calm waters inside. Breeds in very large colonies on islands and reefs
throughout it s range.

Nest. A Hat structure, composed of seaweed and dried grass, loosely
packed together, with a slight depression in the centre; nearly always
lined with small sea shells. Placed on the ground, on grass, or upon a low
shrubby bush.

( )ne, varying considerably in colour, shape, and the distribution
of the markings, a common type being dull white or huffy-white, spotted
and blotched, chiefly at the larger end, with different shades of purplish-
red and purplish-brown, and smaller underlying markings of dull grey.
Breeding-season: July to January (Australia).

27. Lesser Noddy Anous tenuirostris Temminck
ten ii-i-ros-tris L., tenuis, slender; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — South-western Australia ; occurs generally in the
Indian Ocean.

Notes. Usually in very large flocks, frequenting chiefly the seas in
the vicinity of the lloutman Abrolhos Islands, the only known breeding-
place of this species in Australia, although it breeds on the Seychelle
Islands. It is similar in habits and economy to the Noddy, from which
it may be distinguished by its smaller size, longer bill, and almost white
cap.

Nest. A loosely made structure, composed of seaweed, placed, with-
out any regard to shape, across a branch of a mangrove tree; often long
pieces of seaweed hang down beneath the nest giving it the appearance
of being a much more substantial structure than it really is. Nests are
built as close together as possible among the branches of mangrove trees,
at heights up to 10 feet from the ground.

b'.fj(j. One, varying considerably in colour, form, and the distribution
of the markings, a common type being a faint reddish-white, huffy-white,

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

27S

or creamy-buff, over which are distributed irregular-shaped spots and
blotches of reddish-brown or purplish-red, and fainter underlying mark-
ings of lavender or grey. Breeding-season: September to December.

28, White-capped Noddy Anous minutus Boie
min-u-tus — L., minutus, little.

Distribution. — The coast of Northern Territory and Queensland;
occurs generally in the tropical Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Notes. — Usually in very large flocks, frequenting the seas in the
vicinity of its island haunts. During the night it rests in trees, leaving
at daybreak for feeding-places on the surface of the open seas beyond
the reefs. It is similar in habits and economy to the other species of
Noddies, from which it may be distinguished by its smaller size and whiter
cap. Breeds in large colonies on islands and reefs throughout its range.

Nest . — An almost flat structure, composed of the leaves of the tree
on which it is built, laid on one another, with a very slight addition of
seaweed, and cemented together with the bird’s excrement, giving the
exterior, and especially the egg cavity, a white-washed appearance. Nests
are placed as close together as possible on the branches of trees, at heights
up to 50 feet from the ground; also on the ground in rare cases.

Egg. — One, either pure white, creamy, reddish, or buffy-white, over
which are sparingly distributed irregular-shaped spots and blotches of
purplish and purplish-grey and underlying markings of dull bluish-grey,
the markings usually predominating on the larger end. Breeding-season :
September to December (Australia).

29. Silver Gull Larus novcz-hollandice Stephens

Ldr-us — Gk, laros, sea-bird: novce-hollandice — of New Holland.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; occurs also in
New Caledonia and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Red-legged Gull, Crimson-billed Gull, Jameson
Gull, Mackerel Gull, Seagull, and Sea-pigeon. This species is plentiful
throughout the year on our harbours, inlets, and coastal rivers, and at
times it is observed in large flocks on lakes and rivers hundreds of miles
inland. It feeds on almost anything, but its natural food consists prin-
cipally of small fishes and other marine-life; it is also a notorious nest-
robber, eating the eggs of other sea-birds. As a scavenger it is useful,
helping in no small way to keep harbours and rivers clean by eating the
scraps of waste food and offal thrown overboard from ships. Breeds
in colonies, sometimes on headlands and occasionally on inland lakes, but
mostly on small islands throughout its range.

Nest . — Usually a slight depression in the ground, lined more or less
thickly with grass or dried seaweed ; some nests are built externally of
thin twigs and coarse grass, and lined with finer grasses, while others
are compactly made and composed entirely of fine grasses.

276

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Eggs. — Two or three, sometimes four or even five, varying consider-
ably in the ground colour and distribution of the markings, a common
type being pale green or brown, uniformly spotted and blotched with
umber or dark olive-brown, and faint underlying markings of dull violet-
grey. Breeding-season: October to January or February (Australia).

30. Pied Oyster-catcher Hcematopus ostralegus Linne

Hce-mat'-o-pus — Gk, hairnatos, blood; Gk, pous, foot: os-tral -eg-us Gk,
ostreon, oyster; Gk, legem, to gather.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; occurs also in
Europe, northern Africa, and Asia to the Moluccas, New Guinea, Aru
Islands, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called White-breasted Oyster-catcher, Black-and-white
Oyster-catcher, Seapie, Olive, Redbill, and Torea. Usually singly or in
pairs, occasionally in small parties of from four to eight, frequenting sea-
shores. It prefers shores with stones and reef outcrops, where it obtains
most of its food, consisting chiefly of small molluscs, crustaceans, and other
marine animals. Being a sociable bird, it is often seen in the company of
other shore-roving species, such as Curlews and Sandpipers ; it is
exceptionally wary.

Nest. — A depression in the sand ; generally on the shore, above high-
water mark.

Eggs. — Two, pale stone-colour or brownish-white, covered with
irregular-shaped spots, blotches, and short streaks of blackish-brown and
umber and underlying markings of inky-grey; the colour, shape, and
distribution of the markings vary considerably. Breeding-season :
October to January (southern Australia) ; July to September (north-
western Australia).

31. Sooty Oyster-catcher Hcematopus unicolor Forster
u-ni-col-or — L., unicolor, of one colour.

Distribution. — Australia generally, and Tasmania; occurs also in
New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Black Oyster-catcher, Redbill, and Toreo-pango.
Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting chiefly rocky shores, islands, and
reefs. ' It is similar in habits and economy to the Pied Oyster-catcher, but
is even more wary than that species.

Nest. — A shallow depression in the sand, lined with pieces of herbage,
dried grass, seaweed, fragments of coral, or broken shells. It generally
breeds on islands and reefs, often on a grass-covered ledge, some height
above the water.

Eggs.— Two, rarely three, pale yellow-stone or pale brown, covered
with irregular-shaped spots, blotches, and short streaks of blackish-brown
or dull black, and a few underlying markings of light brown and inky-
grey* Breeding-season: October to January.

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

2 77

32. Reef Heron Demigretta sacra Gmelin

Dem-i-gret'-ta = demi — egretta — Fr., demi, half, (L., dimidius) ; N.L.,
egretta, egret: sa-cra — L., sacer, sacred.

Distribution. — Australia generally, Tasmania, and New Zealand;
occurs also in India to Japan and Malaysia to Oceania.

Notes. — Also called Sacred Heron, Blue Heron, and White Heron.
There are two plumage phases of this species, one being dark slaty-grey,
the other white ; the two forms interbreed. The dark phase appears to be
the only form frequenting the coasts and islands of southern Australia and
Tasmania; the white-plumaged bird being found in the tropical regions.
It is generally met with singly or in pairs, frequenting rocky coasts, islands,
and reefs. When not stalking among the rocks at low tide for food, it
squats in a most dejected-looking attitude on a rock. Food: small fishes,
molluscs, crustaceans, and other marine animals.

Nest. — A platform of sticks, placed either on a rock or in the branches
of a low bushy tree.

Eggs. — Two or three, occasionally four, pale bluish-white. Breeding-
season : September and October to January, but practically throughout
the year.

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THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

PLATE XXXV 1

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE
1. Crested Penguin Eudyptes cristatus Miller

Eu-dyp'-tes — L., eu, well, good; L., dyptes , diver: cris-ta-tus — cristatus,
crested.

Distribution . — Sub-Antarctic seas to southern Australia, Tasmania,
and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Rock-hopper Penguin and Tufted Jackass Pen-
guin. There are only a few records of the occurrence of this species in
Australian seas. It breeds in colonies on Prince Edward, Marion, the
Crozet, Kerguelen, St Paul, Campbell, and Antipodes Islands. Food :
cuttle-fish and crustaceans, procured by diving.

Nest. — None made.

Eggs. — Two, bluish-white. Breeding-season: September to December.

2. Thick-billed Penguin Eudyptes pachyrhynchus Gray
pach-y-rhyncli -us — Gk, pachys, thick ; Gk, rhynchos, beak.

Distribution. — New Zealand to southern Australia and Tasmania.

Notes. — Also called Victoria Penguin and Big-crested Penguin. This
species breeds on the coast of New Zealand and on Stewart Island and
Snares Island. The Australian records are few, the most important being
an immature bird collected at Ettalong Beach, New South Wales. Food:
fish, cuttle-fish, and crustaceans.

Nest. — None made.

Eggs. — One or two, pale green, with a coating of lime. Breeding-
season: September to December.

3. Little Penguin Eudyptula minor Forster

Eu-dyp’-tu-la — L., eu, well, good; L., dyptes, diver: mi -nor — L., minor,
smaller.

Distribution. — Southern and eastern Australia (from Fremantle,
Western Australia, to Moreton Bay, Queensland), and Tasmania; also
occurs in New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Little Blue Penguin, Blue Penguin, and Fairy
Penguin. Usually seen on our coasts from September to March, where
it takes up its quarters in well-established rookeries extending along the

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

27y

coast and on many islands. Its quickness in swimming, diving, and turning,
when pursuing food, is marvellous. When disturbed at its nest or when
“sporting” in the water, it utters a sharp barking note. Food : fish, cuttle-
fish, and crustaceans.

Nest. — A little dry grass or sea-weeds placed in cavities between
rocks, in a hollow scraped out underneath tussock grass or other vegetation,
or sometimes in a deserted burrow of a Petrel.

Eggs. — Two, occasionally three, dull white. Breeding-season : Sep-
tember to March.

4. Wandering Albatross Diomedea exulans Linne
Di-o-me-de-a — from Diomede, a Trojan war hero : ex'-u-lans — L., exulans ,
wandering.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, chiefly between latitudes 60° S. and
30° S., occasionally ranging northwards to the tropic of Capricorn.

A Totes. — Also called Man-o’-war Bird, Cape Sheep, and Toroa.
Usually seen following in the wake of a ship, and occasionally in harbours
and bays during stormy weather. Its flight is remarkable as well as
graceful, there being no apparent motion of the wings as it glides and
circles with effortless ease. Food: cuttle-fish, fish, and other marine
animals, as well as galley-refuse from ships. Breeds in colonies on Tristan
da Citnha, South Georgia, and Gough, Auckland, and Antipodes Islands.

Nest. — A large cone-shaped structure, composed of earth and grass
cemented together with excreta; placed on the ground.

Egg. — White, but mostly nest-stained, the surface being rough and
lustreless. Breeding-season: December to February.

5. Snowy Albatross Diomedea chionoptera Salvin
chi-on-op' -ter-a — Gk, chion, snow; Gk, pteron, wing.

Distribution. — The southern seas of Australia, Tasmania, and Africa,
between latitudes 60° S. and 30° S.

Notes. — This species is similar in habits and economy to the Wander-
ing Albatross, but may be distinguished by its lighter coloration generally,
especially its white tail. Breeds on Marion, Prince Edward, the Crozet,
and Kerguelen Islands.

Nest. — A large, bowl-shaped structure, composed of earth and grass,
cemented together with excreta ; placed on the ground.

Egg. — Chalky-white, the surface being coarse and lustreless.
Breeding-season: January and February.

6. Black-browed Albatross Diomedea melanophris Temminck
mel-an-oph'-ris — Gk, melas ( melanos ), black; Gk, phrys ( phrus) y brow.

Distribution. — The southern seas of Australia and Tasmania; occurs
generally in the southern oceans between latitudes 60° S. and 20° S.

Notes. — Also called Black-browed Mollymawk and Mollymawk. This

28 o

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

is the commonest Albatross off the eastern coast of Australia; it is often
seen following ships and is particularly noticeable near trawlers. It is
similar in habits and economy to the Wandering Albatross, but easily
distinguished by its darker coloration and smaller size. Breeds on South
Georgia, and Falkland, Kerguelen, Auckland, Campbell, and Ildefonso
Islands.

Nest. — A large, cone-shaped structure, composed of mud mixed with
vegetable materials ; lined with finer substances ; placed on the ground.

Egg. — Dull white, with a zone of reddish-brown specks and blotches
on the larger end. Breeding-season: November to January.

7. Yellow-nosed Albatross Diomedea chlororhyncha Gmelin
chlor-o-rhyncli -a — Gk, chloros, yellow-green ; Gk, rhynchos, beak.

Distribution. — The eastern, southern, and western seas of Australia,
and Tasmania; occurs generally in the southern oceans, chiefly between
latitudes 50° S. and 20° S.

Notes. — Also called Yellow-nosed Mollymawk. Its range is more
northern than that of its congeners, which it resembles in habits and
economy. Breeds on Tristan da Cunha, and Gough, the Crozet, and St
Paul Islands.

Nest. — A cylindrical shaped structure composed of tufts of grass, clay
and sedge, with a shallow concavity on top, and is built on the ground. The
nest is neat and round and measures fourteen inches in diameter and ten
inches in height (Mosely).

Egg. — White, faintly marked with reddish spots, the surface being
slightly lustrous (Mosely).

8. Grey-headed Albatross Diomedea chry so stoma Forster
chrys-o-storn -a — Gk, chrysos , golden; Gk, stoma, mouth.

Distribution. — The southern seas of Australia, and Tasmania; occurs
generally in the southern oceans, between latitudes 50°S. and 30°S.

Notes . — Also called Gould’s Yellow-nosed Mollymawk and Flat-
billed Mollymawk. This species is rare in Australian seas, and is very
difficult to distinguish from the Yellow-nosed Albatross. Its range is
more southerly than that of the Yellow-nosed Albatross, which it resembles
in habits and economy. Breeds on Diego Ramirez Islands, Cape Horn,
South Georgia, and Kerguelen and Campbell Islands.

Nest . — Not recorded.

Eggs . — Not recorded,

9. White-capped Albatross Diomedea cauta Gould
caut'-a — L., cautus , shy.

Distribution. — The southern seas of Australia, and Tasmania ; occurs
generally in the southern Indian and Pacific Oceans from South Africa
to South America.

Plate XXXVI

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEA-SHORE

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

28 1

Notes. — Also called Shy Albatross and Shy Mollymawk. This species
is well named, for it rarely comes near a ship. It may be distinguished
from the other dark-backed species in having the under-surface of the
wings white, except at the tips. Apart from being shy, it resembles the
other Albatrosses in habits and economy. Breeds on Albatross Island
(Bass Strait), also on Pyramid Rock and the Chatham and Bounty
Islands.

N est. — A flat, bowl-shaped structure, composed of soil and excrement
mixed with roots and grasses; placed on the ground.

Egg—D ull white or creamy-white, freckled or capped, more or less,
with reddish-brown surface markings on the larger end ; some eggs are
almost devoid of markings. The surface is coarse-grained and minutely
pitted all over and is almost lustreless. Breeding-season : August to
October.

10. Sooty Albatross Phcebetria fusca Hilsenberg
Phce-be-tri-a — Gk, phoibetria, prophetess: fus'-ca — L., fuscus, brown.

Distribution. — The southern seas of Australia, and Tasmania; occurs
generally in the southern oceans from latitude 30° S. to the Antarctic
Circle.

Notes. — A common bird in Australian seas, and often confused with
the young of the Wandering Albatross, but may be distinguished by its
smaller size and wedge-shaped tail. It is similar in habits and economy
to the other Albatrosses. Breeds on Tristan da Cunha and Gough Island.

Nest. — A small and low crater-shaped structure composed of grass
and mud; usually built on cliffs or projecting ricks and placed separately.

Egg . — White with a slight greyish tint, covered all over with minute
specks of reddish-brown; usually the specks become larger and thicker
about the larger end, occasionally forming a zone (Cromer).

11. Grey-mantled Albatross Phcebetria palpebrata Forster
pal-pe-bra-ta — L., palpebratus, marked around the eye.

Distribution . — The southern seas of Australia, and Tasmania; occurs
generally from latitude 33° S. to the Antarctic Circle.

Notes . — Also called Light-mantled Albatross. This species is only
a casual visitor to Australian seas, and may be distinguished from the
Sooty Albatross by its grey back and under-parts. It resembles the
Sooty Albatross in habits and economy, but its range is more southern
than that species. Breeds on South Georgia, and Kerguelen, Antipodes,
Auckland, Campbell, and Macquarie Islands.

Nest. — Placed in crevices in rocks.

Egg . — Whitish, covered round the larger end with very small reddish-
brown spots, which merge together at the apex. Breeding-season : October
to January.

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THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

12. Red-tailed Tropic-bird Phaethon rubricaudus Boddaert

Pha-eth-on — Gk, phaethon, shining : rn-bri-caud'-us — L., ruber, red ; L.,
cauda , tail.

Distribution. — Tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans, from Madagascar
and the Mauritius to the Galapagos Islands, and from the Bonin and
Hawaiian Islands to Australia and the Kermadec Islands.

Notes. — Also called Red-tailed Bos’n-bird. This species is only a
straggler to the south-eastern coast, but is common on Norfolk, Lord
Howe, and Raine Islands. It may be distinguished from the smaller
White-tailed Tropic-bird by the two long red streamers in its tail. Breeds
on the Mauritius and Christmas Islands, on islands off the north-western
coast of Australia, and on Raine Island ; also on Lord Howe, Norfolk,
the Society, Palmerston, Bonin, and Hawaiian Islands.

Nest. — A depression in the ground, sheltered by a bush or rock ; some-
times on a ledge or in a crevice of a rocky cliff.

Egg. — Dull white or pale pinkish-red, almost obscured by minute
freckles, spots, or smudges of pinkish-red to blackish-brown, intermingled
■with larger underlying markings of purplish-grey, the darker markings
being frequently confined to the larger end, where often a zone is formed.
Breeding-season : September to March (Lord Howe Island, and Phillip
Island off Norfolk Island) ; practically throughout the year elsewhere.

13. White-tailed Tropic-bird Phaethon Upturns Daudin

lep-tur-us — Gk, leptos, delicate; Gk, oura, tail.

Distribution. — Tropical seas.

Notes . — Also called White-tailed Bos’n-bird. A rare straggler to
the coasts of northern and eastern Australia. The most southern record
is an immature bird collected at Botany Bay, New South Wales. Breeds
on numerous islands throughout the tropical seas.

Nest . — A depression in sand on the floor of a crevice in a rocky cliff
Egg . — Buff, freckled all over with purplish-brown markings
Breeding-season : December to September.

14. Greater Frigate-bird Fregata minor Gmelin

Fre-ga-ta — latinized from Fr. / regate, a frigate: mi -nor — L., minor,
smaller.

Distribution. — The seas of northern and southern Australia; occurs
generally in the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Notes. — Also called Great Frigate-bird, Man-o’-war Hawk, and Sea-
hawk. Usually seen soaring over the sea or circling an island, often so
high in the air as to appear a mere speck against the sky. Its flight is
remarkably swift and graceful, and it remains on the wing practically
throughout the whole day. This species procures its food from the
surface of the water, or by compelling Terns, Gannets, and other sea-
birds to disgorge their prey, which it adroitly catches. Food: young

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

283

turtles, fish, cuttle-fish, and small crustaceans, Breeds in colonies on
South Trinidad, Seychelle, Aldabra, and Christmas Islands, Paracel
Reefs (South China Sea), and the Hawaiian and Galapagos Islands.

N est . — A rather bulky structure, composed of sticks, grass, and other
herbage, placed on the ground or on top of a small bush.

Egg. — White, covered with creamy lime. Breeding-season : March
to July.

15. Lesser Frigate-bird Fregata arid Gray
artel — ariel, a fairy; Gk, aerios, airy.

Distribution. — The seas of north-western, northern, north-eastern,
and southern Australia; occurs in the tropical oceans generally.

Notes. — Also called Man-o’-war Hawk and Sea-hawk. It is similar in
habits and economy to the Greater Frigate-bird, from which it may be
distinguished by its smaller size and white flanks. Breeds on Raine
Island, also on South Trinidad, Bedout, and Aldabra Islands.

Nest. — Usually a rather bulky structure, composed of small sticks,
grass, and other herbage, placed on the ground or on top of a low bush.

Eggs. — One, occasionally two, white, with a slight coating of lime.
Breeding-season: April to July.

16. Dark Southern Skua Catharacta lonnbergi Mathews

Cath-a-ract'-a — from Gk, catarrhactes or catarractes, bird of prey: lonn-
bergi — E. Lonnberg, Scandinavian scientist.

Distribution. — Southern oceans and sub-Antarctic islands, to southern
Australia and Tasmania.

Notes . — Also called Dark Skua and Robber Gull. A rare visitor to
our shores, and then chiefly during the winter months. It is generally
seen among flocks of Gulls and Terns, which it attacks, forcing them to
give up any food they may have secured. Among sea-birds it is analogous
to the birds of prey ; it feeds on small mammals, insects, eggs, young birds,
fish, carrion, and animal refuse. Breeds on South Georgia, the South
Orkneys, Kerguelen Island, the South Island of New Zealand, and Chat-
ham, Auckland, Campbell, and Macquarie Islands.

Nest. — A shallow depression in the ground, slightly lined with grass
and weeds.

Eggs. — Two, glossy dark stone, heavily marked with blotches of
brown, and a few dark markings round the middle. Breeding-season:
November to January.

17. Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus Linne
Ster-co-ra-ri-us — L., stercorarius f dungy: par-a-si-tic-us — Gk, parasiticos,
feeding on another.

Distribution. — Arctic seas, migrating southwards to South America,
South Africa, Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand.

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THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Notes . — Also called Richardson's Skua, Long-tailed Jaeger, Sea-
pirate, Parasite Gull, Robber Gull, and Teaser. Usually arrives in the
southern hemisphere during October or November, departing about
February or March. It is similar in habits and economy to the Dark
Southern Skua. Besides the bird figured, there is a light phase, differing
in having the sides of the head and neck straw-yellow, chin and breast
dull white, and the remainder of the under -parts ash-brown. Breeds on
Commander and Aleutian Islands, and in Alaska, Canada, Greenland,
Scotland, northern Europe, and Siberia.

Nest . — A shallow depression in the ground, slightly lined with grass
or moss.

Eggs . — Two, dark stone to greenish-buff, spotted, chiefly at the larger
end, with very dark brown to light grey markings; other eggs have large
irregular-shaped markings of light brown. Breeding-season: May to July.

18. Brown Gannet Sula leucogaster Boddaert

Su-la — Gk, sulan, to plunder: leuc-o-gas -ter — Gk, lencos, white; Gk,
gaster , belly.

Distribution . — Seas of north-western, northern, and north-eastern
Australia, to the tropic of Capricorn; occurs generally in the tropical
oceans.

Notes . — Also called Brown Booby. Usually in small parties or large
flocks, generally flying with a direct, steady flight rather close to the
surface of the water. Its food consists of fish, which it obtains by diving
from the air and then pursuing them under water. This species not
uncommonly dives from a height of 60 feet or more. Breeds in colonies
on several islands of the Great Barrier Reef, on Bunker, Raine, Darnley,
and Bedout Islands, Ellis Island (Gulf of Carpentaria), and also on islands
in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and tropical Atlantic, Indian, and
Pacific Oceans.

Nest . — A depression in soil or sand, around which is placed any
material near at hand, such as pieces of coral and seaweed, and added to
as incubation proceeds.

Eggs. — Two, bluish-white, with a coating of lime. Breeding-season:
from July probably to December or later.

19. Red-footed Gannet Sula sula Linne
su-la — Gk, sulan, to plunder.

Distribution. — Seas of north-eastern Australia; occurs in the tropical
seas (except the Pacific coast of South America).

Notes . — Also called Red-legged Gannet and Red-footed Booby. It is
similar in habits and economy to the Brown Gannet. Breeds in colonies
on Raine Island, also on islands in the Caribbean Sea, on Ascension
and South Trinidad Islands, and on many islands in the Indian Ocean and
western and central Pacific Ocean.

Nest . — A substantial platform of interwoven sticks, with a shallow
depression in the centre; generally placed in a shrubby bush, well off
the ground.

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

28S

Egg. — Pale greenish or bluish-white, with a coating of lime; gener-
ally nest-stained and scratched by the feet and toes of the sitting bird.
Breeding-season: May and July to September.

20. Australian Gannet Sula serrator Gray
ser-ra-tor — L., serrator , sawyer.

Distribution. — Coast of Australia (south of Fremantle, Western
Australia, and Brisbane, Queensland), Tasmania, and New Zealand.

Notes. — Also called Takupu. A fairly common species off the coasts.
Similar in habits and economy to the other species of Gannets. Breeds in
colonies on islands in Bass Strait, off Tasmania, on Lawrence Rock (off
Portland, Victoria), and on the North Island of New Zealand.

Nest. — Usually a well-built structure, composed of kelp, twigs, grass,
and other plants, placed on a flat cone-shaped mound of earth and guano.

Eggs. — One or two, pale bluish-white, thickly coated with lime; gen-
erally nest-stained and scratched by the feet and toes of the sitting bird
Breeding-season: July to January.

21. Masked Gannet Sula dactylatra Lesson
dac-ty-la-tra — Gk, dactylon, linger ; L., atra, black.

Distribution. — Seas of north-western, northern, and north-eastern
Australia; occurs generally in the tropical seas.

Notes. — Also called Masked Booby and Blue-faced Booby. It is
similar in habits and economy to the other species of Gannets. Breeds in
colonies on Bedout, Adele, and Raine Islands off the Australian coasts,
on Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands, and also on isolated islands in the
tropical oceans.

Nest. — A depression in the sand or earth, around which twigs, grass,
or weeds are strewn, and added to as incubation proceeds.

Eggs. — Usually two, pale bluish-white, more or less covered with
lime. Although two eggs are laid, usually only one young one is reared.
Breeding-season: July to December, or later according to the season and
the locality.

22. Wedge-tailed Shearwater Puffinus pacificus Gmelin

Puff -in-us — N.L., puffinus, puffin: pacificus — of the Pacific Ocean.

Distribution . — The western and eastern coasts of Australia; occurs
generally throughout the tropical and semi-tropical Indian and Pacific
Oceans.

Notes. — Also called Wedge-tailed Petrel and Wedge-tailed Mutton-
bird. Arrives in immense flocks along the coasts during September and
November, and establishes itself in rookeries on islands lying off the
mainland, especially along the Great Barrier Reef. Both sexes take part
in incubation, one remaining silently in the burrow all day, while its mate
ranges the ocean for food, which consists of small fish and squids, crusta-

u

286

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

ceans, and other floating or surface-living animals, and also scraps from
ships. Although a silent place during the day, throughout the night a
rookery is noisy with the cries, shrieks, and wails of the birds. Breeds on
many islands elsewhere in the Pacific Ocean, and in the Indian Ocean.

Nest . — In a hollow at the end of a burrow or in a natural cavity; lined
with a few pieces of grass or feathers.

Egg . — White. Breeding-season: November to March (southern
hemisphere) ; May to August (northern hemisphere).

23. Short-tailed Shearwater Puffinus tenuirostris Temminck
t en-u-i-ros -tris — L., tenuis, slender; L., rostrum, bill.

Distribution. — Bass Strait, the coasts of Tasmania, southern and
south-eastern Australia, and New Zealand, and the Pacific Ocean to the
Sea of Okhotsk and Bering Sea.

Notes. — Also called Mutton-bird, Seal-bird, Whale-bird, Sooty
Shearwater, Bonaparte's Shearwater, and Slender-billed Petrel. Arrives
in immense flocks off our coasts during November, where it takes up its
quarters in old-established rookeries on islands in Bass Strait, and on the
coasts of Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania. It is similar in habits
ana economy to the Wedge-tailed Shearwater. In Bass Strait its eggs and
young form the main support of the islanders. Also breeds on the
Bounty Islands.

Nest. — In a hollow at the end of a burrow, lined with grass or
feathers.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season: November to March.

24. Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus Gmelin
gris-e-us — L., griseus , grey.

Distribution. — The coasts of New South Wales, New Zealand, and
South America, and the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, to Kamchatka, Alaska,
Labrador, Greenland, and The Faeroes.

Notes. — Also called Mutton-bird and Sombre Shearwater. A rare
visitor to the coast of New South Wales. Similar in habits and economy
to the other Shearwaters. Breeds in colonies on the South Island of New
Zealand, and on Stewart, the Snares, Chatham, and Auckland Islands ; also
in the Andes of northern Chile, on islands off Cape Horn, and on the
Falkland Islands. There is one breeding record from Broughton Island.

Nest. — In a hollow at the end of a burrow, lined with grass or
feathers.

Egg . — White. Breeding-season : November to April.

25. Fleshy-footed Shearwater Puffinus carneipes Gould
caP-ne-i-pes — L., carneus, fleshy; L., pes {pedis), foot.

Distribution. — The coasts of South-western and southern Australia,
and Tasmania, Lord Howe Island, the North Island of New Zealand, the
eastern Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean to Japan and California.

287

BIRDS OF THE OCEAN AND SEASHORE

Notes. — Also called Mutton-bird, Pale-footed Shearwater, and Fleshy-
footed Petrel. Usually arrives off our coasts during September or
November. Similar in habits and economy to the other Shearwaters.
Breeds in colonies on islands off the south coast of Western Australia, on
Lord Howe Island, and the North Island of New Zealand.

Nest. — In a hollow at the end of a long burrow, lined with pieces
of weeds, grass, or feathers.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season : November to March.

26. Silver-grey Petrel Priocella antarctica Stephens

Pri-o-ceU'-a — compound of prion , a saw, and procella, storm: antarctica —
of the Antarctic.

Distribution. — Southern oceans, from Antarctica north to St Helena,
New Zealand, and Peru; accidental to Victoria and Tasmania.

N otes. — There are only a few records of the occurrence of this
species in Australian seas, and little has been publishd concerning its
habits. Breeds on Cape Hunter (Stillwell Island, Antarctica).

Nest. — On ledges of cliffs.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season : November and December.

27. Grey Petrel Procellaria cinerea Gmelin

Pro-cell-ar-i-a — L., procella, storm; Gk, laros, sea-bird: cin-er-e-a — L.,
cinereus, ashen.

Distribution . — Southern oceans from about latitude 55° S. to about
30° S. and on the western coast of South America to Peru; not uncommon
off the coasts of southern Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand.

Notes . — Also called Brown Petrel. Gould collected specimens of this
Petrel between Hobart and Sydney. Practically nothing has been recorded
of its habits and economy. Breeds on Gough, Kerguelen, Macquarie, and
Antipodes Islands.

Nest . — In a large chamber at the end of a burrow.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season: November to April; October to
December (Macquarie Island).

28. Giant Petrel Macronectes giganteus Gmelin

Mac-ro-nec-tes — Gk, macros, large; Gk, nectes, swimmer: gi’-gan-te-us
— L., giganteus, giant.

Distribtition . — Southern oceans, from the Antarctic Continent to the
tropic of Capricorn, ranging farther north to the western coast of South
America.

Notes. — Also called Giant Fulmar, Mother Carey’s Goose, Nelly,
Stinker, and Glutton. This species is fairly common in the seas of
southern Australia; it may be distinguished from the dark Albatrosses by
its stouter form, shorter wings, and large pale bill. Its flight is not so
graceful and buoyant as that of an Albatross, being more laboured and

288

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

flapping in character. Most of its food, which is procured from the
surface of the water, consists of fish, squids, crustaceans, and other marine-
life, also refuse from ships. This Petrel is a scavenger, it also kills and
devours other sea-birds. There is a white phase of this species which is
practically confined to the neighbourhood of the Antarctic Circle. Breeds
on the South Shetlands, South Orkneys, and South Georgia, Falkland
Islands, Tristan da Cunha, and the Gough, Prince Edward, Marion, the
Crozet, Kerguelen, Macquarie, and Heard Islands, and the sub-Antarctic
islands of New Zealand.

Nest. — A hollowed, cone-shaped structure, composed of earth and
excreta.

Egg. — White. Breeding-season: September to January.

29. Pacific Gull Gabianus pacificus Latham

Gab-i-d'-nus — N.L., gabianus, gull : pacificus — of the Pacific Ocean.

Distribution. — Tasmania and southern Australia, from Shark Bay
(Western Australia) to Rockhampton (Queensland).

Notes. — Usually singly or in pairs, frequenting chiefly the seas of
South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania, and the larger islands of Bass
Strait, being rather rare in Western Australia, New South Wales, and
Queensland. It is a true scavenger and also a notorious egg robber. Most
of its food is procured from the surface of the water, and consists of fish
and marine animals, also galley-refuse from ships. Breeds on islands in
Bass Strait and headlands of Tasmania. Immature birds are brown, the
feathers being mottled with pale edges.

Nest. — A depression in the ground, neatly lined with grass or other
herbage; generally situated in the shelter of a tussock of grass or a low
bush.

Eggs. — One to three, varying from pale olive or grey to pale olive-
brown, blotched all over with reddish-brown and lavender markings.
Breeding-season : September to January.

APPENDIX

BIRDS INTRODUCED TO AUSTRALIA

BIRDS INTRODUCED AND ESTABLISHED IN AUSTRALIA

1. Indian Turtle-dove Streptopelia suratensis Gmelin

Distribution. — Afghanistan, India, and Ceylon.

Description. — Head, grey ; back and wings, brown ; hind-neck and
sides of neck, black with white spots ; tail-feathers, blackish, all but the
centre pair tipped with white ; throat, whitish ; remainder of under-parts,
cinnamon. Length about 13 inches.

Notes. — Also called Spotted Dove. A common bird in parks and
gardens of cities and suburbs of the coastal areas, and is gradually extend-
ing its range inland. It is a destructive bird in gardens. Food : seeds,
buds, and young shoots of plants.

2. Red-whiskered Bulbul Otocompsa emeria Linnaeus

Distribution. — India, China, Malay Peninsula, and the Mauritius.

Description. — Forehead, crown of head and crest, front of cheeks
and bill, black; patch behind the eye, pale crimson; back, wings, and tail,
brown; cheeks and underparts, white, with an incomplete black band
on the chest, and washed with pale brown on the sides of neck, and
abdomen; under tail-coverts, pinkish-red. Length about 7 inches.

Notes. — Also called Red-vented Bulbul and Top-knot. This serious
pest is unfortunately becoming very common in parks, gardens, and
orchards of Sydney and suburbs, and is gradually establishing itself in
Melbourne. Food : insects and their larvae, seeds, fruits, and the buds
and young shoots of plants.

3. Black-bird Turdus merula Linnaeus

Distribution. — Europe, northern Africa, Egypt, Syria, Persia, and
the Azores.

Description. — Adult male: uniform glossy black; bill, orange-yellow.
Female: dark brown above; under-parts, rufous-brown streaked with
blackish-brown ; bill, brown. Length about 10 inches.

Notes. — This beautiful songster is extremely common in the parks,
gardens, and surrounding districts of Melbourne and Adelaide. It is
gradually extending its range northwards and inland. Food : insects and
their larvae, snails, and fruits. Occasionally destructive in gardens.

4. Song-thrush Turdus philomelos Brehm

Distribution. — Europe, western Asia, and India.

292

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Description. — Dark olive-brown above ; breast and sides of body, yel-
lowish streaked and spotted with blackish-brown; remainder of under-
parts, white. Length about 9 inches.

Notes. — Also called Continental Song-thrush. This fine songster has
firmly established itself in Victoria and South Australia, where it is fairly
common in parks, gardens and orchards. Food: insects and their larvae,
snails, and worms.

5. Skylark Alauda arvensis Linnaeus

Distribution. — Europe and northern Africa.

Description. — Golden-brown above, with blackish centres to the
feathers, light streak over the eye, and white edges to the outermost tail-
feathers; under-parts, buffy- white, spotted and streaked with blackish-
brown on the throat, breast, and flanks. The female is slightly smaller
than the male. Length about 7 inches.

Notes. — This famous songster is firmly established throughout the
grass-lands of the coastal areas of southern and south-eastern Australia.
Food: insects and their larvae, and seeds.

6. Greenfinch Clitoris chloris Linnaeus

Distribution. — Europe to Persia.

Description. — Olive-green ; yellowish forehead and rump ; under-parts
greenish-yellow, darker on the flanks. The female is much duller, and
slightly smaller than the male. Length about 6 inches.

Notes. — Also called Green Linnet. This finch is fairly well distri-
buted over the settled areas of southern and south-eastern Australia, where
its pretty song is often heard in parks, gardens, and orchards. Food:
seeds.

7. Goldfinch Corduelis carduelis Linnaeus

Distribution. — Europe, Canary Islands to Egypt, Persia, and Siberia.

Description. — Forehead, front of face, and chin, crimson; crown of
head, lores, and feathers behind the cheeks, black; back, greyish copper-
brown ; wings, black with yellow markings ; tail-feathers, black, the centre
ones tipped with white; feathers behind the eye, throat, and remainder
of under-parts, white. Length about 5 inches.

Notes. — Also called Thistle-finch. A well-established species through-
out the grass-lands and cultivated areas of south-eastern Queensland,
eastern New South Wales, and southern Australia. Food: seeds and
insects.

8. Tree-sparrow Passer montanus Linnaeus

Distribution. — Europe and northern Asia.

Description. — This species is like the House-sparrow but slightly
smaller in size. Chestnut crown and nape, white-bordered triangular black

BIRDS INTRODUCED TO AUSTRALIA

293

patch on the cheeks, a second white bar across the wing. The sexes are
alike. Length about 5 inches.

Notes. — This Sparrow is by no means common. Found chiefly in
the cultivated and cleared areas of Southern New South Wales and
Victoria. Food : seeds and insects.

9. House-sparrow Passer domesticus Linnaeus

Distribution. — Europe to Siberia.

Description. — Male ; crown, nape, and lower back, slate-grey, slightly
washed with olive-green; back, brown; wings, brown with one white
bar ; chestnut band on side of neck ; cheeks and throat, black ; under-parts,
whitish. The female is duller above and darker on the under-parts than
the male, and is without black on the throat. Length about 5 inches.

Notes. — Also called Common Sparrow. The commonest bird
throughout the cities, towns, and cultivated areas of Australia (except
Western Australia). Food: insects and their larvae, and seeds.

10. Starling Sturnus vulgaris Linnaeus
Distribution. — Europe to Siberia.

Description. — Glossy black with metallic sheen; excepting the head
and neck, the feathers of the upper-parts are tipped with buff, and those
of the under-parts tipped with white. Young birds are greyish-brown.
Length about 8 inches.

Notes. — This bird is extremely common throughout the settled por-
tion of Australia. It does much damage to fruit and crops, but never-
theless destroys countless numbers of injurious insects. Food: insects and
their larvae, seeds, and fruits.

11. Common Myna Acridotheres tristis Linnaeus
Distribution. — India and Afghanistan.

Description. — Head and neck, black; upper-parts, brown with large
white patches on wings, and white tips to the tail-feathers; under-parts,
rich vinous-brown; a large patch round the eye; bill and legs, yellow.
Length about 10 inches.

Notes. — A fairly well-established species in Australia, chiefly in the
coastal areas, where it keeps to the cities and towns. Food: insects and
their larvae, seeds, and fruit.

INDEX

INDEX

297

INDEX

( Explanatory Note. The numbers following each entry in this Index indicate,
respectively, the plate, the figure on the plate, and the page of the corresponding
letterpress. Thus: Apostle-bird, viii, 9, 53, refers to plate viii, figure 9, depicting
the Apostle-bird, on the plate, and page 53, where the descriptive details concerning
the Apostle-bird will be found.)

A.

Acanthagenys rufogularis, xii, 2, 80
Acanthisa albiventris, xvi, 21, 115
opicalis , xvi, 19, 114
chrysorrhoa, xix, 13, 132
ewingi, xvi, I4> 1 13
hamiltoni, xvi, 20, 114
hedleyi, xix,. 11, 13 1
inomata, xvi, 13, 112
katherina, xvi, 16, 113
lineata, xvi, 12, 112
morgani, xix, 10, 131
nana, xvi, 11, 112
pusilla, xvi, 18, 114
rcguloides, xix, 14, 132
robustirostris, xvi, 17, 113
squamata, xix, 12, 132
uropygialis, xix, 15, 133
whitlocki, xvi, 15, H3..
Acanthorhynchus super ciliosus, xv, i5»
I0 5

tenuirostris, xv, 14, 104
Acanthornis magnus, xxiv, 1, 167
Accipiter cirrocephalus , xxix, 2, 206
Acridotheres tristis, appendix., 11, 293
Acrocephalus australis, xxviii, 23, 203
mgintha temporalis, xxviii, 5, 19 7
Mgutheles crist at a, v, 7, 33'

Aidemosyne modesta, xxviii, 8, 198
Ailurcedus crassirostris, iii, 10, 18
melanotus, iii, .9, 18
Alarm-bird, xxxi, 24, 227
Alauda arvensis , appendix, 5, 292
Albatross, Black-browed, xxxvi, 6, 279
Grey-headed, xxxvi, 8, 280
Grey-mantled, xxxvi, n, 281
Light-mantled, xxxvi, 11, 281
Shy, xxxvi, 9, 281
Snowy, xxxvi, 5, 279
Sooty, xxxvi, 10, 281
Wandering, xxxvi, 4, 279
White-capped, xxxvi, 9, 280
Yellow-nosed, xxxvi, 7, 280

Alcyone azurea, xxxi, 2, 219
pusilla, xxxi, 1, 219
Alectura lathami, vi, 3, 38
Amaurodryas vittata, x, 29, 71
Amauromis ruficrissus, xxxi, 9, 222
Amytornis dorothece, xxv, 19, 179
gvyderi, xxv, 17, 179
housei, xxv, 20, 180
modestus, xxv, 14, 178
purnelli, xxv, 13, 178
striatus, xxv, 15, 178
textilis, xxv, 12, 177
whitei, xxv, 16, 179
woodwardi, xxv, 18, 179
Anas superciliosa , xxxiii, 151.246
Anhinga novce-hollandicz, xxxii, 9, 2 33
Anous minutus, xxxv, 28, 275
stolidus, xxxv, 26, 274
tenuirostris, xxxv, 27, 274
Anseranas semipalmata, i, 1, 3
Anthochcera carunculata, xii, 14, 84
chrysoptera, xx iv, 19, 173
paradoxa, xii, 15, 85
Anthus australis, xxvii, 11, 191
Aphelocephala castaneiventris, xix, 7,
13°

leucopsis, xix, 6, 130
nigricincta, xix, 9, 131
pect oralis, xix, 8, 130
Aplonis metallica, ii, 7, 11
Apostle-bird, viii, 9, 53 ; ix, 60 ; xviii,
5, 124

AprosmicHts erythropterus, xx, 5, 137
scapularis, xx, 6, 137
Ardea sumatrana, xxxii, 15, 235
Arenaria inter pres, xxxiv, 29, 264
Arses kaupi, iv, 5, 24
lorealis, iv, 6, 25

Artamus cyanopterus , xxvii, 2, 188
leucorhynchus, xi, 15, 77
melanops, xi, 16, 77
minor, xxvii, 1, 188
personatus, xi, 18, 78
super ciliosus, xi, 17, 78

298

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Ashbyia lovensis, xix, 20, 135
Astur fasciatus, xxix, 11, 209
novce -ho Handle?, xxix, 10, 209
Atrichornis clamosus, vii, 19, 4 7
ritfescens, vii, 20, 48
Avocet, Red-necked, xxxi, 22, 226

B.

Babbler, Chestnut-crowned, xviii, 8, 125
Grey-crowned, xviii, 5, 124
Red-breasted, xviii, 6, 125
White-browed, xviii, 7, 125
Bald Coot, xxxii, 5, 231 ; 6, 232
Baldy, iii, 14, 21
Ballyhead, xix, 16, 133
Banana-bird, ii, 1, 9; iii, 7, 18; xii, 4, 81
Barker, xviii, 5, 124
Barkpecker, xvii, 1, 118
Bark-tit, x, 11, 65

Barley-bird, xxviii, 12, 200; 20, 202
Barnard ins barnardi, xxi, 18, 148
macgillivrayi, xxi, 17, 147
semitorquatus, xxi, 20, 148
zonarius, xxi, 19, 148
Barwing, xxxiii, I, 241
Bathilda ruficatida , xxviii, 6, 198
Baza suberistata, xxx, 1, 212
Beach-bird, xxxiv, 29, 264
Bee-eater xi, 14, 77
Bell Miner, xiv, 17, 97
Bell-bird, xiv, 17, 97
Bell-bird, Crested, xviii, 3, 123
Betcherrygah, xxii, 17, 155
Bird of Paradise, Australian, ii, 11, 14
Bittern, Australian, xxxiii, 23, 249
Black, xxxiii, 22, 249
Black-backed, xxxiii, 23, 249
Brown, xxxiii, 23, 249
Green-backed, xxxiii, 20, 248
Little, xxxiii, 18, 247
Little Mangrove, xxxiii, 20, 248
Mangrove, xxxiii, 20, 248
Minute, xxxiii, 18, 247
Red Mangrove, xxxiii, 21, 248
Yellow-necked, xxxiii, 22, 249
Yellow-necked Mangrove, xxxiii, 22,

. . 2 49

Biziura lobata, xxxiii, 17, 247
Black-bird, appendix, 3, 291
Blackcap, xv, 16, 105
Black-throat, xxviii, 15, 201
Bleatcr, xxxi, 13, 223
Blight-bird, xv, 3, 1 01
Blood-bird, xv, 6, 101
Blue Bonnet, xxi, 7, 145; xxvi, 1, 182
Little, xxi, 6, 144
Blue Cap, xxvi, 1, 182
Blue Martin, xi, 18. 78
Blue-bird, xi, t 8 , 78
Blue-eye, xii, 4 , 81

Booby, Blue-faced, xxxvi, 21, 285
Brown, xxxvi, 18, 284
Masked, xxxvi, 21, 285
Red-footed, xxxvi, 19, 284
Boomer, xxxiii, 23, 249
Bos’n-bird, Red-tailed, xxxvi, 12, 282
White-tailed, xxxvi, 13, 282
Botaurus poiciloptilus , xxxiii, 23, 249
Bower-bird, Fawn-breasted, xviii, 11, 126
Golden, ii, 9, 12
Great, xviii, 12, 127
Newton’s, ii, 9, 13
Regent, ii, 8, 12
Satin, ii, 13, 15
Spotted, xviii, 9, 125
Tooth-billed, iii, 11, 20
Western, xviii, 10, 126
Brain-fever Bird, xi, 8, 75
Bristle-bird, Eastern, xxv, 21, 180
Long-billed, xxv, 22, 180
Rufous, xxv, 23, 181
Western, xxv, 22, 180
Brolga, i, 7, 5

Bronze Cuckoo, Broad-billed, x, 28, 71
Golden, x, 28, 70
Hors field, x, 25, 70
Little, x, 26, 70
Narrow-billed, x, 25, 70
Rufous-breasted, x, 24, 69
Shining, x, 27, 70
Bronze-wing, Crested, xiii, 8, 88
Harlequin, xiii, 1 1, 89
Partridge, xiii, 9, 88
Plumed, xiii, 4, 87
Rust-coloured, xiii, 5, 87
Smith’s Partridge, xiii, 10, 89
Bronze-wing Pigeon, xiii, 13, 90
Brush, xiii, 12, 90
Brownhead, xxxiii, 1, 241
Brownie, iii, 15, 21

Brush Bronze-wing Pigeon, xiii, 12, 90
Brush Turkey, vi, 3, 38
Bubbly Mary, iii, 13, 20
Budgerygah, xxii, 17, 155
Bulbul, Red-vented, appendix, 2, 291
Red-whiskered, appendix, 2, 291
Bull-bird, xxxiii, 23, 249
Bulla-Bulla, xxi, 18, 148
Bullfinch, xxviii, 12, 200
Buln Buln, xxi, 18, 148
Bumps, xix, t6, 133
Burhmns magnirostris, ix, 12, 61
Bush Martin, xi, 18, 78
Bush-hen, xxxi, 9, 222
Bush-lark, Cinnamon, xxvii, 9, 191
Horsfield, xxvii, 10, 191
Bush-warbler, Brown, xvi, 4, 109
White-throated, xvi, 3, 109
Bushman’s Clock,, ix, 9, 59
Bustard, i, 5, 4

INDEX

299

Butcher-bird, Black, xxiii, 18, 162
Black-backed, viii, 4, 51
Black-throated, viii, 5, 51
Collared, viii, 3, 51
Grey, viii, 3, 50
Pied, viii, 5, 51
Silver-backed, viii, 2, 50
But or ides rogersi, xxxiii, 21, 248
striata, xxxiii, 20, 248
Buzzard, Black-breasted, xxx, 2, 212
Rufous-bellied, xxix, 12, 210

C.

Cackler, xviii, 5, 124
Coco mantis castaneiventris, x, 23, 69
flab el li for mis, x, 22, 69
pyrrhophanus, iv, 2, 23
Colamanthus campestris, xxv, 10, 177
fuliginosus, xxv, 8, 176
isabellinus, xxv, 11, 1 77
montanellus, xxv, 9, 177
Calico-bird, xxxiv, 29, 264
Colidris canutus, xxxiv, 1, 253
tenuirostris, xxxiv, 2, 253
Callocephalon fimbriatum, xx, 13, 140
Colyptorhynchus banksi, xx, 16, 141
baud ini, xx, 17, 14 1
funereus, xx, 15, 140
lathami, xx, 14, 140
Canary, Australian, xiv, 13, 96
Bush, xvi, 3, 109
Native, xvi, 3, 109
Queensland, xxiii, 4, 158
Saltbush, xix, 18, 134
Canary Parrot, xxii, 17, 155
Cape Shefp, xxxvi, 4, 279 .
Caprimulgus ntacrurus, vii, 23, 49
Carduelis carduelis, appendix, 7, 292
Carterornis leucotis, iv, 10, 26
Cartwheel-bird, xxv, 23, 181
Casarca tadornoides, xxxiii, 14, 246
Cassowary, i, 3, 4
Casuarius casuarius, i, 3, 4
Cat-bird, xviii, 5, 124; 6, 125
Green, iii, 10, 19
Spotted, iii, 9 , 19
Cataract-bird, vii, 14, 45
Caterpillar-eater, Jardine, xi, 4, 73
Pied, xi, 3, 73
White-eyebrowed, xi, 3, 73
White-shouldered, xi, 2, 72
Catharacta lonnbergi, xxxvi, 16, 283
Cave-bird, vii, 14, 45 .

Covleyna picta , xxviii, 4. 197
Centro pus phasianinus, xxxiii, 24, 250
Cereopsis novae -hollandice, i, 4 » 4
Certhionyx variegatus, xxiv, 9, 169
Chal cites basalis, x, 25, 70
Chalcophaps chrysochlora, iii, 4, 1 7
Charadrius bicinctus, xxxiv, 8, 255
cucullatus, xxxiv, 9, 256
leschenaulti, xxxiv, 5t 254

Charadrius ( continued )
melanops, xxxiv, 4, 254
mongolus, xxxiv, 7, 255
ruflcapillus , xxxiv, 3, 254
veredus, xxxiv, 6, 255
Chat, Crimson, xix, 17, 134
Desert, xix, 20, 135
Orange, xix, 18, 134
Orange-fronted, xix, 18, 134
Tricoloured, xix, 17, 134
White-fronted, xix, 16, 133
Yellow, xix, 19, 134
Yellow-breasted, xix, 19, 134
Chatterer, xviii, 5, 124 ; 8, 125
Rufous-breasted, xviii, 6, 125
White-eyebrowed, xviii, 7, 125
Chenonetta jubata, xxxiii, 8, 243
Chenopis atrata, i, 8, 5
Cheramceca leucosterna, xxvii, 8, 190
Cherry-eater, xii, 5, 81
Cherry-hawk, ix, 1, 57
Chibia bracteata, ii, 10, 13
Chick-chock, xxiv, 14, 171
Chicken, Mother Carey's, xxxv, 1, 264;

2, 264; 3,. 265; 4, 265
Chickoowee, xiv, 13, 96
Chickup, xiv, 11, 95
Chinin-chinin, xvii, 15, 122
CJilamydera cerviniventris, xviii, 11, 126
g lit tat a, xviii, 10, 126
maculata, xviii, 9, 125
nuchalis, xviii, 12, 127
Chlidonias leucopareia, xxxi, 27, 228
leucoptcra, xxxi, 26, 228
Chloris chloris, appendix, 6, 292
Chough, White-winged, viii, 9, 53
Chowchilla, vii, II, 44
Christ-bird, xxxi, 12, 223
Chthonicola sagittata, xix, 21, 135
Cicada-bird, xi, 4, 73
Cinclorhamphus cruralis, xxvii, 19, 194
mathewsi, xi, 20, 79
Cinclosoma alisteri, y ii, 1, 41
castaneothorax, vii, 4, 42
castanotum, vii, 3, 41
cinnamomeum, vii, 2, 41
punctatmn, vii, 5, 42
Circus approximans , xxix, 14, 210
assimilis, xxix, 13, 210
Cisticola exilis, xxviii, 20, 202
Cladorhynchus leucocephalus, xxxi, 21,
226

Climacteris affinis, xvii, 13, 121
erythrops, xvii, 12, 121
leucophcva, xvii, 10, 120
melanota, xvii, 9, 120
melanura, xvii, 14, 122
minor, xvii, 11, 121
picumnus, xvii, 7, 119
rufa, xvii, 8, 120
wellsi, xvii, 15, 122

300

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Clipper, xix, 16, 133
Coachman, Flying, xiv, 16, 97
Coachwhip-bird, iv, 18, 28; 22, 30
Black-throated, iv, 23, 30
Cobbler, xxxi, 22, 226
Cobbler’s Awl, xv, 14, 104; xxxi, 22, 226
Cockatiel, xxi, 8, 145
Cockatoo, Banksian Black, xx, 16, 141
Banks’s Black, xx, 16, 141
Bare-eyed, xx, 9, 139
Baudin’s Black, xx, 17, 141
Black, xx, 15, 141
Blood-stained, xx, 9, 139
Cape York, xx, 18, 142
Funereal Black, xx, 15, 141
Gang-gang, xx, 13, 140
Glossy Black, xx, 14, 140
Great Palm, xx, 18, 142
Leach’s Black, xx, 14, 140
Leadbeater’s, xx, 12, 139
Long-billed, xx, 10, 139
Palm, xx, 18, 141
Pink, xx, 12, 139
Red-crowned, xx, 13, 140
Red-headed, xx, 13, 140
Red-tailed Black, xx, 16, 141
Rose-breasted, xx, 8, 138
Sulphur-crested, xx, 11, 139
White, xx, 11, 139
White-tailed Black, xx, 17, 141
Yellow-tailed Black, xx, 15, 140
Cockatoo Parrot, xxi, 8, 145
Cocktail, xxvi, 1, 182
Codlin-moth-eater, xviii, 5, 124
Collocalia francica, xxvii, 3, 189
Colluricincla boweri, iv, 21, 29
brunnea, x, 14, 66
harmonica, x, 13, 66
megarhyncha, iv, 20, 29
parvula, x, 15, 66
rufiventris, 10, 16, 67
woodwardi, x, 17, 67
Columba norfolciensis, iii, 14, 21
Compophila albogularis, xxiii, 7, 159
rufogularis, xv, 12, 103
Cooee-bird, ii, 12, 14
Cookay-cock, xxiv, 19, 173
Coot, xxxii, 7, 232
Coracina gascoynensis, ix, 5, 58
hypoleuca, ix, 2, 57
lineata, ix, 6, 58
novce-hollandicc, ix, 1, 57
papuensis, ix, 4, 58
robusta, ix, 3, 58

Corcorax melon or hamphus, viii, 9, 53
Corella, xx, 10, 139
Corella, Little, xx, 9, 139
Cormorant, Black, xxxii, 22, 238
Little Black, xxxii, 23, 239
Little Pied, xxxii, 26, 239
Pied, xxxii, 25, 239 .

White-breasted, xxxii, 24, 239

Corn Crake, xxvii, 19, 194
Corn-bird, xxviii, 20, 202
Corwis bennetti , viii, 17, 56
cecilce, viii, 18, 56
coronoides, viii, 16, 55
Coturnix pectoralis, xxvii, 17, 194
Coucal, xxxiii, 24., 250
Pheasant, xxxiii, 24, 250
Cracticus argenteus, viii, 2, 50
mentalis, viii, 4, 51
nigrognlaris, viii, 5, 51
quoyi, xxiii, 18, 162
torquatus, viii, 3, 50

Crake, Corn, xxvii, 19, 194; xxxi, 8, 221
Leaden, xxxi, 5, 220
Little, xxxi, 4, 220
Marsh, xxxi, 4, 220
Spotless, xxxi, 5, 220
Spotted, xxxi, 3, 219
Tabuan, xxxi, 5, 220
Water, xxxi, 3, 219
White-browed, xxiii, 19, 163
Crane, Australian, i, 7, 5
Blue, xxxii, 19, 237
Nankeen, xxxiii, 19, 248
White, xxxii, 17, 236; 18, 237
White-necked, xxxii, 20, 237
Cranky Fan, x, 19, 68
Crocethia alba, xxxiv, 17, 259
Crow, viii, 18, 56
Hazel-eyed, viii, 18, 56
Little, viii, 17, 56
Singing White, viii, 8, 52
Small-billed, viii, 17, 56
Crow-shrike, black-throated, viii, 5, 51
Collared, viii, 3, 51 •

Grey, viii, 13, 54
Hill, viii, 12, 54
Pied, viii, 14, 55
Piping, viii, 8, 52
Sooty, viii, 11, 54
Varied, viii, 8, 52
Cuckoo, Ash-coloured, x, 22, 69
Black-eared, xi, 7, 74
Broad-billed Bronze, x, 28, 71
Brush, iv, 2, 23
Channel-billed, ix, n, 60
Chestnut-breasted, x, 23, 69
Fan-tailed, x, 22, 69
Flinders, ii, 12, 14
Giant, ix, 11, 60
Golden Bronze, x, 28, 70
Horsfield Bronze, x, 25, 70
Little Bronze, x, 26, 70
Narrow-billed Bronze, x, 25, 70
Oriental, xi, 9, 75
Pallid, xi, 8, 75

Rufous-breasted Bronze, x, 24, 69
Shining Bronze, x, 27, 70
Square-tailed, iv, 2, 23
Storm, ix, 11, 60

INDEX

301

Cuckoo-shrike, Barred, ix, 6, 58
Black-faced, ix, 1, 57
Gascoyne, ix, 5, 58
Ground, ix, 7, 59
Little, ix, 3, 58
Papuan, ix, 4, 58
White-breasted, ix, 2, 57
Cuculus optatus, xi, 9, 75
palliduSj xi, 8, 75
Curlew, ix, 12, 61 ; xxxiv, 25, 262
Australian, xxxiv, 25, 262
Beach Stone, xxxiv, 30, 264
Black, xxxii, 10, 234
Jack, xxxiv, 26, 262
Pygmy, xxxiv, 19, 260
Scrub, ix, 12, 61
Sea, xxxiv, 25, 262
Stone, ix, 12, 61

Curlew-sandpiper, xxxiv, 19, 260
Curlew-stint, xxxiv, 19, 260
Curlew-whelp, xxxiv, 25, 262
Curley-sandpiper, xxxiv, 19, 260
Currawong, Black, viii, 11, 54
Black-winged, viii, 10, 53
Brown, viii, 15, 55
Clinking, viii, 12, 54
Grey, viii, 13, 54
Pied, vm, 14, 55
Cut-throat, iv, 18, 28
Cyrtostomus jrenatus, xv, 1, 100

D.

Dabchick, xxxi, 16, 224; 17, 225
Dacelo gigas , ix, 9, 59
leachi, ix, 8, 59
Dairy-bird, xiv, 18, 98
D option cape rise , xxxv, 11, 268
Darter, xxxii, 9, 233

Snake-necked, xxxii, 9, 233
Dasyornis brachypterus , xxv, 21, 180
broadbenti, xxv, 23, 181
longirostris, xxv, 22, 180
D emigre tta sacra , xxxv, 32, 277
Dendrocygna arcuata, xxxiii, 11, 245
eytoni, xxxiii, 12, 245
Desert-bird, 25, 2, 174
Devil-bird, ii, 2, 9; x, 19, 68
Diamond, Ground, xvi, 22, 115
Diamond-bird, xvi, 22, 115
Golden-rumped, xvi, 23, 115
Striated, 16, 24, 116
Diamond-dove, xiii, 2, 86
Dicaeum hirundinaceum, xvi, to, hi
Diomedea cauta, xxxvi, 9, 280
chionoptera , xxxvi, 5, 279
chlororhyncha , xxxvi, 7, 280
chrysostoma, xxxvi, 8, 280
exulans, xxxvi, 4, 279
melanophris, xxxvi, 6, 279
Dishwater, x, 20, 68
Diver, xxxii, 9, 233
White-bellied, xxxi, 16, 224

Dog-bird, xviii, 5, 124
Dollar-bird, xi, 13, 76
Donacola castaneothorax , xxviii, 12, 199
flaviprymna, xxviii, 10, 199
pectoralis, xxviii, 11, 199
Doo-doo, xiii, 1, 86
Dotterel, xix, 16, 133
Australian, xxxi, 11, 22 2
Black-fronted, xxxiv, 4, 254
Double-banded, xxxiv, 8, 255
Hooded, xxxiv, 9, 256
Large Sand, xxxiv, 5, 254
Mongolian Sand, xxxiv, 7, 255
Oriental, xxxiv, 6, 255
Red-capped, xxxiv, 3, 254
Red-kneed, xxxiv, 10, 256
Sea, xxxiv, 29, 264
Dotterel Quail, xxvii, 14, 193
Double-bar, xxviii, 2, 196
Black-rumped, xxviii, I, 196
White-rumped, xxviii, 2, 196
Dove, Bar-shouldered, xiii, 3, 86
Barred-shouldered, xiii, 3, 86
Diamond, xiii, 2, 86
Ground, vii, 5, 42; xiii, 1, 86
Indian Turtle, appendix, 1, 291
Little, xiii, 2, 86
Mangrove, xiii, 3, 86
Peaceful, xiii, 1, 86
Pink-headed, iii, 3, 16
Red-eyed, xiii, 2, 86
Spotted, appendix, 1, 291
Turtle, xiii, 2, 86

Dove-petrel, xxxv, 13, 268; 14, 268
Dove-prion, xxxv, 15, 269
Dragoon-bird, vii, 7, 43
Dromaius rvovce-hollandice , i, 9, 6
Drongo, Spangled, ii, 10, 13
Drymodes brunneopygia, vii, 17, 47
super ciliaris, vii, 18, 47
Dryweather-bird, xxxii, 12, 234
Duck, Australian Wild, xxxiii, 15, 246
Black, xxxiii, 15, 246
Blue-billed, xxxiii, 5, 242
Brown, xxxiii, 15, 246
Burdekin, xxxiii, 13, 245
Diving, xxxiii, 5, 242
Ey ton’s Tree, xxxiii, 12, 245
Freckled, xxxiii, 9, 244
Grey, xxxiii, 15, 246
Little Musk, xxxiii, 5, 242
Mangrove, xxxiii, 13, 245
Monkey, xxxiii, 9, 244
Mountain, xxxiii, 14, 246
Musk, xxxiii, 17, 247
Pink-eared, xxxiii, 10, 244
Pink-eyed, xxxiii, 10, 244
Plumed Tree, xxxiii, 12, 245
Plumed Whistling, xxxiii, 12, 245
Speckled, xxxiii, 9, 244

302

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Duck ( continued )

Spiny-tailed, xxxiii, 5, 242
Spoonbill, xxxiii, 16, 247
Stiff-tailed, xxxiii, 5, 242
Tree, xxxiii, 11, 245
Whistling, xxxiii, 11, 245
Whistling Tree, xxxiii, 11, 245
White-eyed, xxxiii, 1, 241
White-winged, xxxiii, 1, 241
Wood, xxxiii, 8, 243
Zebra, xxxiii, 10, 244
Duck-hawk, xxix, 3, 207
Dunlin, Little, xxxiv, 18, 259
Dutoctor flame o llis, xxxiii, 22, 249
Dyke, Diamond, xvi, 22, 115
Ground, xvi, 22, 115

E.

Eagle, Little, xxx, 8, 215
Red-backed Sea, xxx, 6, 214
Rufous-backcd Sea, xxx, 6, 214
Wedge-tailed, xxx, 9, 215
Whistling, xxx, 7, 214
White-bellied Sea, xxx, 10, 216
White-breasted Sea, xxx, 10, 215
White-headed Sea, xxx, 6, 214
Eagle-hawk, xxx, 9, 215
Ecliong, xi, 1. 72
Edoliisoma temiirostre , xi, 4, 73
Egg-bird, xxxv, 24, 273
Egret, xxxii, [8, 237
Great, xxxii, 18, 237
Lesser, xxxii, 16, 236
Little, xxxii, 16, 236
Plumed, xxxii, 17, 236
Spotless, xxxii, 16, 236
Egretta alba, xxxii, 18, 237
garzetta, xxxii, 16, 236
intermedia, xxxii, 17, 236
Elanus axillaris, xxix, 8, 208
scriptus, xxix, 9, 209
Emu, i, 9, 6
Emu Wren, xxv, 3, 175
Malice, xxv, 4, 175
Rufous-crowned, xxv, 5, 175
Entomyzon cyan 0/ is, xii, 4, 81
Eopsaltria australis, x, 4, 63
capito, iv, 16, 28
chrysorrhoa, iv, 15, 27
griseogularis , x, 6, 63
kern pi, x, 5, 63
leucops, iv, 17. 28
Epthianura albifrons, xix, 16, 133
aurifrons, xix, 18, 134
crocca , xix, 19, 134
tricolor, xix, 17, 1 34
Eremiornis cartcri, xxv, 2, 174
Erolia acuminata, xxxiv, 20, 260
ruficollis, xxxiv, 18, 259
testacca, xxxiv, 19, 260
Erythrogonys cine t us , xxxiv, 10, 256
Ery thro triorchis radialus, xxix, 12, 210

Erythura trichroa, xxviii, 7, 198
Eudynamys orientalis, ii, 12, 14
Eudyptes cristatus, xxxvi, 1, 278
pachyrhynchus, xxxvi, 2, 278
Eudyptula minor, xxxvi, 3, 278
Eulabeornis castaneoventris, xxxii, 4, 231
Eupodotis australis, i, 5, 4
Eurostopodus gultatus, vii, 22, 48
mystacalis, vii, 21, 48
Eurystomus orientalis, xi, 13, 76
Excalfactoria chinensis, xxviii, 26, 204

F.

Ealco berigora, xxix, 7, 208
cenchroides, xxix, 1, 206
hypoleucus, xxix, 4, 207
longipennis, xxix, 3, 207
peregrinus, xxix, 5, 207
subnig er, xxix, 6, 208
Falcon, Black, xxix, 6, 208
Black-cheeked, xxix, 5, 207
Grey, xxix, 4, 207
Little, xxix, 3, 20 7
Peregrine, xxix, 5, 207
White- fronted, xxix, 3, 207
Falcon-shrike, x, 11, 65
Ealcunculus frontatus, x, ir, 65
leucogaster, x, 12, 65
zvhitei, x, 10, 65

Fantail, Black-and-white, x, 21, 68
Grey, x, 19, 6 7
Northern, x, 18, 67
Rufous, iv, 3, 23
White-shafted, x, 19, 68
Fantail- warbler, xxviii, 20, 202
Golden-headed, xxviii, 20, 202
Fanner’s Friend, xxxii, 12, 234
Fig-bird, iii, 7, 18
Yellow, iii, 8, 18
Yellow-breasted, iii, 8, 18
Finch, Banded, xxviii, 2, 196
Beautiful Firetail, xxiv, 10, 170
Bicheno’s, xxviii, 2, 196
Black-ringed, xxviii, 1, 196
Black-rumped, xxviii, 16, 201
Black-tailed, xxviii, 16, 201
Black-throated, xxviii, 15, 201
Blood, xxviii, 18, 201
Blue- faced, xxviii, 7, 198
Cherry, xxviii, 8, 198
Chestnut, xxviii, 12, 200
Chestnut-breasted, xxviii, 12, 199
Chestnut-eared, xxviii, 3, 197
Crimson, xxviii, 18, 201
Diadem, xxviii, 8, 198
Diggles’, xxviii, 16, 201
Firetail, xxiv, 10, 170
Gouldian, xxviii, 13, 200
Long-tailed, xxviii, 17, 201
Long-tailed Grass, xxviii, 17, 201
Masked, xxviii, T4, 200

INDEX

303

Finch ( continued )

Modest, xxviii, 8, 198
Owl-faced, xxviii, 2, 196
Painted, xxviii, 4, 197; 13, 200
Pale Crimson, xxviii, 19, 202
Parson, xxviii, 15, 201
Pictorella, xxviii, II, 199
Plain-coloured, xxviii, 8, 198
Plum-headed, xxviii, 8, 198
Purple-breasted, xxviii, 13, 200
Red-browed, xxviii, 5, 197
Red-eared, xxiv, 11, 170
Red-eared Firetail, xxiv, 11, 170
Red- faced, xxviii, 6, 198
Red-tailed, xxviii, 6, 198
Spotted-sided, xxviii, 9, 199
Star, xxviii, 6, 198
Temporal, xxviii, 5, 197
Thistle, appendix, 7, 292
Tricoloured Parrot, xxviii, 7, 198
White-bellied Crimson, xxviii, 19, 202
White-breasted, xxviii, 11, 199
White-rumped Banded, xxviii, 2, 196
Yellow-rumped, xxviii, 10, 199
Yellow-tailed, xxviii, 10, 199
Zebra, xxiv, 11, 170; xxviii, 3, 196
Firetail, Diamond, xxviii, 9, 199
Flock-pigeon, iii, 12, 20
Flood-bird, ix, 11, 60; xxiii, I, 157
Flowerpecker, xvi, 10, iii
Flute-bird, viii, 8, 52
Flycatcher, Black-breasted, iv, 5, 24
Black-faced, iv, 7, 25
Black-fronted, iv, 9, 2 5
Boat-billed, iv, 4, 24
Broad-billed, xxiii, 10, 160
Brown, x, 7, 64
Brown-tailed, x, 9, 64
Carinated, iv, 7, 25
Frill-necked, iv, 6, 25
Kaup’s, iv, 5, 24
Leaden, xi, 5, 73
Lemon-breasted, x, 8, 64
Pearly, iv, 8, 25
Pied, iv, 5, 24
Restless, x, 20, 68
Satin, xi, 6, 74

Shining, xi, 6, 74; xxiii, 15, 161
Spectacled, iv, 9, 25
White-eared, iv, 10, 26
White-lored, iv, 66, 25
White-shafted, x, 19, 68
Fly-eater, Brown, xvi, 4, 109
Green-backed, xxiii, 2, 157
Large-billed, xxiii, 1, 157
Queensland, xvi, 6, no
Singing, xxiii, 4, 158
White-throated, xvi, 3, 109
Four-o’-clock, xii, 13, 84
Fowl, Jungle, vi, 5, 39
Mallee, vi, 4. 39
Scrub, vi, 5, 39

Fregata minor , xxxvi, 14, 282
ariel, xxxvi, 15, 283
Fregetta tropica, xxxv, 4, 266
Friar-bird, Helmeted, xii, 12, 83
Little, xii, n, 83
Melville Island, xii, 10, 83
Noisy, xii, 13, 84
Silver-crowned, xii, 9, 83
Yellow-throated, xii, n, 83
Frigate-bird, Great, xxxvi, 14, 282
Greater, xxxvi, 14, 282
Lesser, xxxvi, 15, 283
Frog-bird, x, 21, 68
Frogmouth, Large, v, II, 34
Marbled, v, 8, 33
Papuan, v, 11, 34
Plumed, v, 9, 33; 11, 34
Tawny, v, 10, 33
Tawny-shouldered, v, 10, 33
Fruit-pigeon, Magnificent, iii, 13, 20
Superb, iii, 2, 16
Swainson’s, iii, 3, 16
Fulica atra, xxxii, 7, 232
Fulmar, Giant, xxxvi, 28, 287

G.

Gabianus pad ficus, xxxvi, 29, 288
Galah, xx, 8, 138; 13, 140
Gallinago hardwicki, xxxi, 13, 223
me gala, xxxi, 14, 224
Gallinula tenebrosa, xxxii, 3, 231
Gallinule, Azure-breasted, xxxii, 6, 232
Black, xxxii, 3, 231
Black-tailed, xxxii, 1, 230
Purple, xxxii, 5, 231
Gannet, Australian, xxxvi, 20, 285
Brown, xxxvi, 18, 284
Masked, xxxvi, 21, 285
Red-footed, xxxvi, 19, 284
Red-legged, xxxvi, 19, 284
Gar, xix, 16, 133
Garrodia nereis, xxxv, 2, 265
Gaunt, xxxii, 8, 233
Gelochelidon nilotica, xxxi, 28, 229
Geoffroyus geoffroyi, xx, 1, 136
Geopelia cuneata, xiii, 2, 86
humeralis^ xiii, 3, 86
placida, xiii, 1, 86
Geophaps scripta, xiii, 9, 88
smithi, xiii, 10, 89

Geopsittacus occidental is, xxii, 20, 156
Gerygone cantator, xxiii, 4, 158
chloronota, xxiii, 2, 157
flavida, xvi, 5, 109
fusca, xvi, 9, hi
levigaster, xvi, 7, no
magnirostris, xxiii, 1, 157
mouki, xvi, 6, no
olivacea, xvi, 3, 109
palpebrosa, xvi, 8, no
richmondi , xvi, 4, 109
tenebrosa , xxiii, 3, 157

304

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Gibber-bird, xix, 20, 135
Gill-bird, xii, 14, 84
Mock, xxiv, 19, 173
Glareola maldivarum, xxxiv, II, 257
Gliciphila albifrons, xxiv, 16, 172
fasciata, xv, n, 103
indistincta, xxiv, 8, 169
melanops, xxiv, 15, 172
modesta, xxiii, 6, 158
Glossopsitta concinna, xxii, 12, 153
porphyrocephala, xxii, 11, 153
pusilla, xxii, io, 153
Glutton, xxxvi, 28, 287
Glycichcera claitdi, xv, 10, 103
Gnow, vi, 4, 39
Go-away, xviii, 7, 125
Goatsucker, Banded, v, 7, 33
Crested, v, 7, 33

Godwit, Bar-tailed, xxxiv, 23, 261
Barred-rumped, xxxiv, 23, 261
Black-tailed, xxxiv, 24, 262
Paci tic, xxxiv, 23, 261
Goldfinch, appendix, 7, 292
Goose, Black-and-white, i, 1, 3
Cape Barren, i, 4, 4
Carr, xxxii, 8, 233
Green Pygmy, xxxiii, 7, 243
Magpie, i, i,j
Maned, xxxiii, 8, 243
Mother Carey's, xxxvi, 28, 287
Mould, xxxiii, 17, 247
Pied, i, 1, 3
Pig, b 4, 4
Semipalmated, i, 1, 3
White-quilled Pygmy, xxxiii, 6, 243
Goose-teal, Green, xxxiii, 7, 243
White-quilled, xxxiii, 6, 243
Goshawk, xxix, 11, 209
Grey, xxix, 10, 209
Red, xxix, 12, 210
Grallina cyanoleuca, viii, 1, 50
Grantiella picta, xiv, 15, 96
Grape-eater, xv, 3, 101
Grass-bird, Little, xxviii, 21, 202
Tawny, xxviii, 22. 203
Grass-parrot, xxii, 3, 151
Beautiful, xxii, 6, 152
Blue-banded, xxii, 1, 150
Bourke’s xxii, 5, 151
Chestnut-shouldered, xxii, 6, 152
Chestnut-winged, xxii, 6, 152
Elegant, xxii, 3, 151
Orange-bellied, xxii, 2, 150
Orange-throated, xxii, 7, 152
Splendid, xxii. 7, 152
Warbling, xii, 17, 155
Grasshopper Hawk, xi, 8, 75
Graucalus, Varied, ix, 3, 58
Grebe, Black-throated, xxxi, 16, 224
Crested, xxxii, 8, 233
Great Crested, xxxii, 8, 233

Grebe ( continued )

Hoary-headed, xxxi, 17, 225
Little, xxxi, 16, 224
Tippet, xxxii, 8, 233
Red-necked, xxxi, 16, 224
Greenfinch, appendix, 6, 292
Greenie, xiv, 13, 96
Greenshank, xxxiv, 15, 258
Little, xxxi, 19, 225
Grey Jumper, ix, 10, 60
Grinder, x, 20, 68

Ground-bird, Black-breasted, vii, 1, 41
Chestnut-backed, vii, 3, 42
Cinnamon, vii, 2, 41
Spotted, vii, 5, 42
Ground-dove, xiii, 1, 86
Ground-lark, xxvii, 11, 191
Gull, Crimson-billed, xxxv, 29, 275
Jameson, xxxv, 29, 275
Mackerel, xxxv, 29, 275
Pacific, xxxvi, 29, 288
Parasite, xxxvi, 17, 284
Red-legged, xxxv, 2 y, 275
Robber, xxxvi, 16, 283; 17, 284
Silver, xxxv, 29, 275
Gymnorhina dorsalis , viii, 6, 52
hypoleuca, viii, 7, 52
tibicen, viii, 8, 52

H.

Hcrmatopus ostralegus, xxxv, 30, 276
unicolor, xxxv, 31, 276
Halcyon chloris, xxiii, 17, 162
macleayi, xi, 11, 76
pyrrhopygius, xi, 12, 76
sanctus, xi, 10, 75
Haliceetus leucogaster, xxx, 10, 215
Haliastur indus, xxx, 6, 214
sphenurus, xxx, 7, 214
Halobcena ccerulea, xxxv, 12, 268
Hamirostra melano sterna, xxx, 2, 212
Happy Family, xviii, 5, 124
Happy Jack, xviii, 5, 124
Harbinger-of-Spring, xi, 8, 75
Hardhead, xxxiii, 1, 241
Harrier, Allied, xxix, 14, 210
Gould’s xxix, 14, 210
Jardine’s, xxix, 13, 210
Spotted, xxix, 13, 210
Swamp, xxix, 14, 210
Harvest-bird, xxvii, 19, 194
Hawk, Blue, xxix, 4, 207
Brown, xxix, 7, 208
Cackling, xxix, 7, 208
Chicken, xxix, 2, 206; n, 20Q
Collared Sparrow, xxix, 2, 206
Crested, xxx, 1, 212
Duck, xxix, 3, 207
Eagle, xxx, 9, 215
Fig, ix, ii, 60
Fish, xxx, 3, 213

INDEX

305

Hawk ( continued )

Grasshopper, xi, 8, 75
Man-o’-war, xxxvi, 14, 282; 15, 283
Mosquito, xxix, 1, 206
Moth, vii, 21, 48
Night, vii, 21, 48
Rufous-backed Fish, xxx, 6, 214
Salmon, xxx, 6, 214
Sea, xxxvi, 14, 282; 15, 283
Smoke, xxix, 4, 207
Sparrow, xxix, 1, 206; 2, 206
Spotted Swamp, xxix, 13, 210
Swamp, xxix, 14, 210
Wheat, xxix, 14, 210
Whistling, xxx, 7, 214
White-bellied Fish, xxx, 10, 216
Hen, Black-backed Water, xxxii, 5, 231
Black-tailed Native, xxxii, 1, 230
Black-tailed Water, xxxii, 1, 230
Black Moor, xxxii, 3, 231
Blue-breasted Swamp, xxxii, 6, 232
Bush, xxxi, 9, 222
Dusky Moor, xxxii, 3, 231
Eastern Swamp, xxxii, 5, 231
Macquarie, xxxii, 5, 231
Malice, vi, 4, 39
Native, xxxii, 2, 230
Purple Water, xxxii, 5, 231
Scrub, vi, 5,

Swamp, xxxii, 1, 230
Tasmanian Water, xxxii, 2, 230
Western Swamp, xxxii, 6, 232
Heron, Blue, xxxv, 32, 277
Great-billed, xxxii, 15, 235
Mangrove, xxxiii, 20, 248
Nankeen Night, xxxiii, 19, 248
Pacific, xxxii, 20, 237
Pied, xxxii, 21, 238
Reef, xxxv, 32, 277
Sacred, xxxv, 32, 277
White, xxxv, 32, 277
White-faced, xxxii, 19, 237
White-fronted, xxxii, 19, 237
White-necked, xxxii, 20, 237
Heteromyias cinereifrons, iv, 12, 26
Hieraaetus morphnoides, xxx, 8, 215
Himantopus leucocephalus, xxxi, 20, 226
Hirundapus caudacutus, xxvii, 5, 189
Hirundo neoxena, xxvii, 7, 190
Histriophaps histrionica, xiii, 11, 89
Hobby, Australian, xxix, 3, 207
Honey-eater, Banded, xv, 8, 102
Black, xv, 9 » 102
Black-chinned, xv, 18, 106
Black-headed, xv, 22, 107
Blue-faced, xii, 4, 81
Bridled, xiv, 19, 98
Brown, xxiv, 8, 169
Brown-backed, xxiii, 6, 158
Brown-headed, xv, 21, 106
Buff-backed, xv, 10, 103

Honey-eater ( continued )
Cockerell, xiv, 3, 92
Crescent, xxiv, 14, 171
Dusky, xxiii, 5, 158
Egypt, xxiv, 14, 1 7 i.
Fulvous-fronted, xxiv, 15, 172
Fuscous, xiv, 9, 94
Garrulous, xii, 5, 81
Golden-backed, xv, 19, 106
Graceful, xiv, 4, 93
Green-backed, xv, 10, 103
Grey, xv, 13, 104
Grey-headed, xiv, 8, 94
Helmeted, xiv, 20, 98
Horseshoe, xxiv, 14, 171
Inconspicuous, xv, 13, 104
Island, xxiii, 9, 160
Keartland’s, xiv, 8, 94
Lanceolated, xii, 3, 81
Least, xxiv, 8, 169
Lesser Lewin, xiv, 1, 92
Lewin, ii, 1, 9

Little Yellow-spotted, xiv, 4, 93
Lunulated, xv, 16, 105
Macleay, xiv, 5, 93
Mangrove, xxiii, 9, 159
Moustached, xxiv, 13, 17 *

New Holland, xxiv, 12, 171
Painted, xiv, 15, 96
Pied, xxiv, 9, 169
Plumed, xiv, 7, 94
Purple-gaped, xiv, 2, 92
Red-headed, xv, 7, 102
Red-throated, xv, 12, 104
Regent, xiv, 16, 97
Rufous-banded, xxiii, 7, 159
Rufous-throated, xv, 12, 103
Sanguineous, xv, 6, 101
Scaly-throated, xxiii, 9, 160
Scarlet, xv, 6, 101
Singing, xiv, 18, 98
Spine-billed, xv, 14, 104
Spiny-cheeked, xii, 2, 80
Streak-naped, xii, 1, 80
Streaked, xii, I, 80
Striped, xii, 3, 80
Strong-billed, xv, 20, 106
Tasmanian, xxiv, 14, 171
Tawny-breasted, xii, 1, 80
Tawny-crowned, xxiv, 15, 172
Varied, xxiii, 8, 159
Warty-faced, xiv, 16, 97
Wattle-cheeked, xiv, 2, 92
Wattled, xii, 14, 84
White-bearded, xxiv, 12, 170
White-breasted, xv, 11, 103
White-cheeked, xxiv, 13, 171
White-chinned, xv, 17, 105
White-eared, xxiv, 17, 172
White-fronted, xxiv, 16, 172
White-gaped, xii, 8, 82
White-lined, xiv, 6, 93

V

30 6

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Honey-eater ( continued )

White-naped, xv, 16, 105
White-plumed, xiv, 13, 96
White-streaked, xiv, 3, 92
White-striped, xiv, 6, 93
White-throated, xv, 17, 105
Yellow, xiv, 10, 95
Yellow-eared, ii, 1, 9
Yellow -faced, xiv, 11, 95
Yellow-fronted, xiv, 7, 94
Yellow-plumed, xiv, 14, 96
Yellow-spotted, xiv, 1, 92
Yellow-streaked, xiv, 5, 93
Yellow-throated, xxiv, 18, 173
Yellow-tinted, xiv, 12, 95
Yellow-tufted, xiv, 21, 99
Yellow-winged, xxiv, 12, 171
Hopper, xviii, 5, 124
Hornbill, ix, 11, 60
Humming-bird, xv, 14, 104
Hydro progne cctspia, xxxv, 17, 270
Hylacvla cauta, xxv, 7, 176
Pyrrho pygia, xxv, 6, 175
Hylochelidon ariel xxvii, 6, 190
nigricans, xi, 19, 78
Hypotaniidia philippensis, xxxi, 8, 221

I.

Ibis, Black-necked, xxxii, 11, 234
Glossy, xxxii, 10, 233
Straw-necked, xxxii, 12, 234
White, xxxii, 11, 234
Ice-bird, xxxv, 13, 269
Irediparra gallinacea, xxxi, 12, 223
l xovrychus minutus, xxxii i, 18, 247

Jabiru, i, 6, 5

Jacana, Comb-crested, xxxi, 12, 223
Jack, Speckled, xix, 21, 135
Jackass, Derwent, viii, 3, 51
Howling, ix, 8, 59
Laughing, ix, 9, 59
Tasmanian, viii, 3, 51
Whistling, viii, 3, 51
Jackass Penguin, Tufted, xxxvi, 1, 277
Jackdaw, viii, 9, 53
Jacky Winter, x, 7, 64
Jaeger, Long-tailed, xxxvi, 17, 284
Jardine Caterpillar-eater, xi, 4, 73
Jay, ix, 1, 57

Black, viii, 9, 53; 11, 54; 12, 54
Blue, ix, 1, 57
Lesser Blue, ix, 3, 58
Jerryang, xxii, 10, 153
Jew-bird, xxiv, 12, 171
Jumper, xviii, 5, 124
Jungle Fowl, vi, 5, 39

K.

Kahu, xxix, 14, 210
Kakatoe galerita, xx, II, 139
leadbeateri, xx, 12, 139

Kakatoe ( continued )
roseicapilla, xx, 8, 138
sanguinea, xx, 9, 139
tennirostris, xx, 10, 139
Kangaroo-bird, xviii, 7, 125
Kaoriki, xxxiii, 18, 247
Karakahia, xxxiii, 1, 241
Keet, Green, xxii, 12, 154
Little, xxii, 10, 153
Purple-crowned, xxii, 11, 153
Kestrel, Nankeen, xxix, 1, 206
King Parrot, xx, 6, 137; xxi, 21, 149
Kingfisher, xi, 14, 77
Azure, xxxi, 2, 219
Blue, xi, 11, 76; xxxi, 2, 219
Blue-winged, ix, 8, 59
Brown, ix, 9, 59
Bush, xi, 11, 76
Forest, xi, 10, 75; 11, 76
Giant, ix, 9, 59
Golden, xi, 12, 76
Great, ix, 9, 59
Green, xi, 10, 75
Leach’s, ix, 8, 59
Little, xxxi, 1, 219
Macleay’s, xi, 11, 76
Mangrove, xxiii, 17, 162
Red-backed, xi, 12, 76
River, xxxi, 2, 219
Sacred, xi, 10, 75
Saw-billed, xxiii, 16, 162
Tree, xi, 10, 75
Water, xxxi, 2, 219
White-tailed, iv, 1, 23
Wood, xi, 10, 75
Yellow-billed, xxiii, 16, 162
Kite, Allied, xxx, 4, 213
Black, xxx, 4, 213
Black-shouldered, xxix, 8, 208
Fork-tailed, xxx, 4, 213
Letter-winged, xxix, 9, 209
Square-tailed, xxx, 5, 213
Knot, xxxiv, 1, 253
Great, xxxiv, 2, 253
Koel, ii, 12, 14

Kookaburra, Blue-rumped, ix, 8, 59
Laughing, ix, 9, 59
Queensland, ix, 8, 59
Kuaka, xxxiv, 23, 261
Kuruwhengi, xxxiii, 16, 247

L.

1-Mcustroica whitei, xv, 13, 104
Lalagc leucomela, xi, 3, 73
tricolor, xi, 2, 72
Lamprococcyx lucidns, x, 27, 70
minutillus, x, 26, 70
plagosus , x, 28, 70
russatus, x, 24, 69
Landrail, xxxi, 8, 221
Buff-banded, xxxi, 8, 221
Banded, xxxi, 8, 221

INDEX

307

Lapwing, ix, 1, 57
Lark, Black-breasted, xxvii, 19, 194
Brown Song, xxvii, 19, 194
Cinnamon Bush, xxvii, 9, 191
Ground, xxvii, II, 191
Horsfield Bush, xxvii, 10, 191
Little Field, xix, 21, 135
Magpie, viii, 1, 50
Peewee, xi, 2, 72
Rufous Song, xi, 20, 79
Rufous-rumped Singing, xi, 20, 79
Sand, xxxiv, 3, 254
Singing, xxvii, 19, 194
Sky, xi, 20, 79 ; xxvii, 10, 191 ; 19, 194
Striated Reed, xxv, 8, 176
Larus nova-liollandia , xxxv, 29, 275
Lathamus discolor , xxii, 18, 155
Leatherhead, ix, 1, 57; xii, 13, 84
Little, xii, 11, 83

Leek, Green, xx, 2, 136; xxii, 12, 154
Leipoa ocellata, vi, 4, 39
Leptolophus hollandicus , xxi, 8, 145
Letter-bird, xxxii, 12, 234
Leucosarcia ?nelanoleuca, xiii, 14, 90
Leucotreron alligator, iii, 17, 22
Limicola falcinella, xxxiv, 28, 263
Limosa lapponica, xxxiv, 23, 261
_limosa, xxxiv, 24, 262
Linnet, xiv, 13, 96
Green, appendix, 6, 292
Lobibyx miles, xxxi, 23, 227
nova-hollandia , xxxi, 24, 227
Log-runner, vii, 12, 45
Northern, vii, II, 44
Spine-tailed, vii, 12, 45
Long-bill, xxxi, 13, 223
Longshanks, xxxi, 20, 226
Loon, xxxii, 8, 233
Lophoictinia isura, xxx, 5, 213
Lopholaimus antarcticns, iii, 12, 20
Lophophaps ferruginea, xiii, 5, 87
plnmifera, xiii, 4, 87
Lorikeet, Blue-bellied, xxii, 16, 154
Little, xxii, 10, 153
Musk, xxii, 12, 153
Purple-crowned, xxii, 11, 153
Rainbow, xxii, 16, 154
Red-collared, xxii, 15, 154
Scaly-breasted, xxii, 14, 154
Swift-flying, xxii, 18, 155
Varied, xxii, 13, 154
Lorilet, Blue-browed, xxii, 8, 152
Blue-faced, xxii, 9, 153
Red-browed, xxii, 9, 153
Red-faced, xxii, 8, 152
Lorius pect oralis, xx, 7, 138
Lory King, xx, 6, 137
Red, xxi, 16, 147
Red- winged, xx, 5, 137
Swamp, xxi, JO, 146
Lotus-bird, xxxi, 12, 223

Love-bird, xxii, 17, 155
Lowan, vi, 4, 39
Lowry, Mountain, xxi, 16, 147
Lyre-bird, vi, 1, 37
Albert’s, vi, 2, 38
Northern, vi, 2, 38
Prince Albert’s, vi, 2, 38
Superb, vi, 1, 37

M.

Machaerirhynchus flaviventer, iv, 4, 24
Macronectes giganteus, xxxvi, 28, 287
Macropygia phasianella, iii, 15, 21
Mad Fan, x, 19, 68

Magpie, Black, vii, 11, 54; viii, 9» 53; *4*

55

Black-backed, viii, 8, 52
Bell, viii, 10, 53
Grey, viii, 13, 54
Little, viii, 1, 50
Mountain, vii, 12, 54
Murray, viii, I, 50
Western, viii, 6, 52
White-backed, viii, 7, 52
Magpie-lark, viii, 1, 50
Major Mitchell, xx, 12, 139
Malacorhynchus membranaceus. xxxiii,
10, 244

Mallee Fowl, vi, 4, 39
Mallee Hen, vi, 4* 39
M alums amabilis , xxvi, 11, 186
assimilis, xxvi, 9, 185
callainus, xxvi, 3, 183
cyaneus , xxvi, 1, 182
cyanotus, xxvi, 6, 184
elegans, xxvi, 10, 185
lamberti, xxvi, 8, 184
leuconotus, xxvi, 7> 184
leucopterus, xxvi, 5,. 183
melanocephalus , xxvi, 13, 186
melanotus, xxvi, 2, 182
pule her rimus, xxvi, 12, 186
splendens, xxvi, 4, 183
Mangrove-dove, xiii, 3, 86
Manorina melanophrys, xiv, 17, 97
Man-o’-war Bird, xxxvi, 4, 2 79
Manucode, ii, II, 14
Martin, xi, 17, 78; xxvii, 2, 188
Blue, xi, 18, 78
Bush, xi, 18, 78
Fairy, xxvii, 6, 190
Jacky, xxvii, 2, 188
Tree, xi, 19, 78
May- fowl, xxxiv, 26, 262
Maycock, xxxiv, 21, 260
Megaloprepia magnified, iii, 13, 20
Megalornis rubicundus. i, 7, 5
Megalurus galactotes, xxviii, 22, 203
gramineus, xxviii, 21 , 202
Megapodius reinwardt , vi, 5, 39
Melanodryas cucullata, x, 3, 62

308

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Meliornis niger, xxiv, 13, 171
noycc-hollandice, xxiv. 12, 170
Meliphaga albilineata, xiv, 6, 93
analoga, xiv, 1, 92
cassidix, xiv, 20, 98
chrysops, xiv, 1 1, 95
cratitia, xiv, 2, 92
fasciogularis, xxiii, 9, 159
flava, xiv, 10, 95
flavesccns, xiv, 12, 95
flavicollis, xxiv, 18, 173
frenata, xiv, 19, 98
fusca, xiv, 9, 94
gracilis, xiv, 4, 93
kegrtlandi, xiv, 8, 94
leucotis, xxiv, 17, 172
lezvini, ii, 1, 9
macleayana, xiv, 5, 93
mclanops , xiv, 21, 99
ornata, xiv, 14, 96
penicillata, xiv, 13, 96
plumula, xiv, 7, 94
versicolor, xxiii, 8, 159
virescens, xiv, 18, 98
M elithrcplus affinis, xv, 22, 107
albogularis, xv, 17, 105
brevir ostris, xv, 21, 106
gularis, xv, 18, 106
laetior, xv, 19, 106
lunatus, xv, 16, 105
validir ostris, xv, 20, 106
Mclopsittacus undulatus, xxii, 17, 155
Mcnura, Albert, vi, 2, 38
Lyretail, vi, I, 37
Mcnura albcrti, vi, 2, 38
novce-hollandice , vi, 1, 37
M crops ornatus, xi, 14, 77
Mcsoscolopax minutus, xxxiv, 27, 263
Micky, xii, 5, 81

Microcarbo mclanolcucus, xxxii, 26, 239
Micrceca brunneicauda, x, 9, 64
fascinans, x, 7, 64
flavigastcr, x, 8, 64
Micropus pacificus, xxvii, 4, 189
Milvus viigrans, xxx, 4, 213
Miner, Blacked-headed, xii, 5, 81
Dusky, xii, 6, 82
Noisy, xii, 5, 81
Yellow-throated, xii, 7, 82
Mira fra javanica, xxvii, 10, 191
woodivardi, xxvii, 9, 191
Mistletoe-bird, xvi, 10, 111
Mocker, xxiv, 19, 173
Mollymawk, xxxvi, 6, 279
Black-browed, xxxvi, 6, 279
Flat-billed, xxxvi, 8, 280
Gould’s Yellow-nosed, xxxvi, 8, 280
Shy, xxxvi, 9, 281
Yellow-nosed, xxxvi, 7, 280
Monarcha canescens, iv, 8, 25
melanopsis, iv, 7, 25
trivirgata, iv, 9, 25

Monk, xii, 13, 84

Moon-bird, xix, 16, 133

Mopoke, v, 10, 33; 12, 34

Morning-bird, x, 21, 68

Mother Carey’s Chicken, xxxv, 1, 265;

2, 265; 3, 266; 4, 266
Mother Carey’s Goose, xxxvi, 28, 286
Mourner, x, 13, 66
Mudlark, viii, 1, 50
Mulberry-bird, iii, 7, 18
Murray Smoker, xxi, 10, 146
Mutton-bird, viii, 9, 53; 14, 55; xii, 14,
84; xxxvi, 23, 286; 24, 286; 25, 287
Wedge-tailed, xxxvi, 22, 285
Myiagra cyanoleuca, xi, 6, 74
rubecula, xi, 5, 73
ruficollis, xxiii, 10, 160
Myna, Common, appendix, 11, 293
Myristicivora spilorrhoa, iii, 16, 22
Myzantha flavigula, xii, 7, 82
melanocephala, xii, 5, 81
obscura, xii, 6, 82

My some la erythrocephala, xv, 7, 102
nigra, xv, 9, 102
obscura, xxiii, 5, 158
pect oralis, xv, 8, 102
sanguinolenta, xv, 6, 101

N.

Nankeen Kestrel, xxix, 1, 206
Nankeen Night-heron, xxxiii, 19, 248
Native Companion, i, 7, 5
Nelly, xxxvi, 28, 287
Neochmia albiventer, xxviii, 19, 202
phaeton, xxviii, 18, 201
Neophcma bourki, xxii, 5, 151
chrysogaster, xxii, 2, 150
chrysostoma, xxii, 1, 150
elegans, xxii, 3, 15 1
pctrophila, xxii, 4, 151
pulchella, xxii, 6, 152
splendida, xxii, 7, 152
N cosit ta albata, xvii, 5, 119
chrysoptera, xvii, I, 118
leucocephala, xvii, 4, 119
leucoptera, xvii, 6, 119
pilcata, xvii, 2, 118
striata, xvii, 3, 118

Nettapus corotnandelianus, xxxiii, 6, 243
pulchellus, xxxiii, 7, 243
Nightingale, xxviii, 23, 203
Nightjar, Large-tailed, vii, 23, 49
Little, v, 7, 33
Owlet, v, 7, 33
Spotted, vii, 22, 48
White-throated, vii, 21, 48
Ninox boobook, v, 12, 34
connivens, v, 16, 35
lurida, v, 14, 35
novG-ceelandice, v, 13, 34

INDEX

309

Ninox boobook ( continued )
ocellata, v, 15, 35
rufa , v, 1 7, 35
strenua, v, l8 f 36
Noddy, xxxv, 26, 274
Common, xxxv, 26, 274
Lesser, xxxv, 27, 274
White-capped, xxxv, 28, 275
Notophoyx aruensis, xxxii, 21, 238
novce-hollandicE, xxxii, 19, 237
pacifica, xxxii, 20, 237
Numenius cyanopus, xxxiv, 25, 262
phaopus, xxxiv, 26, 262
Nun, xix, 16, 133
Nuthatch, xvii, 1, 118
Nutmeg Pigeon, White, iii, 16, 22
Nycticorax caledonicus, xxxiii, 19, 248
Nyroca australis , xxxiii, 1, 241

O.

Oceanites oceanicus , xxxv, 1, 265
Ocyphaps lophotes, xiii, 8, 88
Olive, xxxv, 30, 276
Opopsitta coxeni, xxii, 8, 152
leadbeateri, xxii, 9, 153
Oreocincla lunulata, vii, 16, 46
Oreoica gutturalis, xviii, 3» * 2 3
Oreoscopus gutturalis, vii, 13, 45
Organ-bird, viii, 5, 51 ; 8, 52
Origma rubricata, vii, 14, 45
Oriole, Olive-backed, iii, 6, 18
Yellow, iii, 5, *7
Oriolus flavocinctus, iii, 5, 17
sagittatus, iii, 6, 18
Orthonyx spaldingi, vii, 11, 44
temtnincki, vii, 12, 45
Orthorhamphus magnirostris, xxxiv, 3<>»
264

Osprey, xxx, 3, 213

White-headed, xxx, 3, 213
Otocompsa emeria, appendix, 2, 291
Owenavis osculans, xi, 7, 74
Owl, Barn, v, I, 31
Boobook, v, 12, 34
Cave, v, 4, 3 2
Chestnut-faced, v, 5> 3 2
Cuckoo, v, 12, 34
Delicate, v, 1, 31
Fawn-bellied, v, i5> 35
Fern, vii, 21, 48
Great Scrub, v, 18, 36
Grass, v, 6, 32
Lesser Masked, v, 1, 31
Marbled, v, 15, 35
Masked, v, 3> 31
Moth, v, 7, 33
Northern Boobook, v, I5> 35
Powerful, v, 18, 36
Red Boobook, v, 14, 35
Rufous, v, 17, 35
Screech, v, 1, 3 1
Sooty, v, 2, 31

Owl ( continued )

Spotted, v, 13, 34
Tasmanian Masked, v, 5, 3 2
Winking, v, 16, 35
Owlet-nightjar, v, 7, 33
Oxyura australis, xxxiii, 5, 242
Oyster-catcher, Black, xxxv, 31, 276
Black-and-white, xxxv, 30, 276
Pied, xxxv, 30, 276
Sooty, xxxv, 31, 276
White-breasted, xxxv, 30, 276

P.

Pachycephala griseiceps, ii, 3, 10
inornata, xviii, 2, 123
lanioides, xxiii, 14, 161
melanura, x, 2, 62
olivacea, iv, 19, 29
pect oralis, iv, 18, 28
robusta, x, 1, 62
rufiventris, xi, 1, 72
rufogularis, xviii, 1, 123
simplex , xxiii, 12, 160
Pachyptila desolata, xxxv, 15, 269
turtur, xxxv, 14, 269
vittata, xxxv, 13, 269
Painted Lady, xxxi, 22, 226
Pandion halicetus, xxx, 3, 213
Parakeet, Barnard’s, xxi, 18, 148
Barraband, xx, 2, 136
Brown’s, xxi, 14, 147
Green, xxii, 10, 153
Mar lock, xx, 4, 137
Pennant’s, xxi, 16, 147
Princess of Wales’, xx, 3, 137
Queen Alexandra’s, xx, 3, 137
Rock, xxii, 4, 151
Rosehill, xxi, 9, 145
Swift-flying, xxii,. 18, 155
Yellow-bellied, xxi, 13, 146
Yellow-rumped, xxi, 10, 146
Yellow-vented, xxi, 7, 145.

Pardalote, Black-headed, xvi, 28, 117
Forty-spotted, xvi, 26, 116
Red-browed, xvi, 27, 116
Red-tipped, xvi, 25, 116
Spotted, xvi, 22, 115
Striated, xvi, 24, 116
Yellow- tailed, xvi, 23, 115
Pardahtus vielanocephalus, xvi, 28, 117
ornatus , xvi, 25, 116
punctatus, xvi, 22, 115
quadragintus, xvi, 26, ti6
rubricatus, xvi, 27, 116
striatus, xvi, 24, 116
xanthopygus, xvi, 23, 115
Parera, xxxiii, 15, 246
Parra, Comb-crested, xxxi, 12, 223
Parrot, Alexandra, xx, 3, 137
Alexandrine, xx, 3, 137
Banded, xxi, 19, 148
Beautiful, xxi, 3, 143

3io

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Parrot ( continued )

Beautiful Grass, xxii, 6, 152
Black-tailed, xx, 4, 137
Blue Mountain, xxii, 16, 154
Blue-banded Grass, xxii, 1, 150
Blue-cheeked, xxi, 12, 146
Blue-winged, xxii 1, 150
Bourke, xxii, 5, 151
Bourke’s Grass, xxii, 5, 151
Brown’s, xxi, 14, 147
Bulloak, xxi, 7, 145
Canary, xxii, 17, 155
Chestnut-shouldered Grass, xxii, 6 , 152
Chestnut-winged Grass, xxii, 6, 152
Cloncurry, xxi, 17, 147
Cockatoo, xxi, 8, 145
Crimson, xxi, 16, 147
Crimson-bellied, xxi, 7, 145
Crimson-winged, xx, 5, 137
Elegant, xxii, 3, 151
Elegant Grass, xxii, 3, 151
Fig, xxii, 8, 152; 9, 153
Golden-shouldered, xxi, 2, 143
Golden-winged, xxi, 2, 143
Grass, xxi, 4, 144; xxii, 3, 151
Green, xxi, 13, 146

Ground, xxi, 3, 143; 4, 144; xxii, 19,
156

Hooded, xxi, I, 143
King, xx, 6, 1 37; xxi, 21, 149
Mallee, xxi, 18, 148
Many-coloured, xxi, 5, 144
Mountain, xx, 4, 137
Mulga, xxi, 5, 144
Naretha, xxi, 6, 144
Night, xxii, 5, 151 ; 20, 156
Nonpareil, xxi, 9, 145
Orange-bellied Grass, xxii, 2, 150
Orange-breasted, xxii, 2, 150
Orange-throated Grass, xxii, 7, 152
Paradise, xxi, 3, 143
Pink-bellied, xxii, 5, 151
Port Lincoln, xxi, 19, 148
Princess, xx, 3, 136
Red-backed, xxi, 4, 144
Red-capped, xxi, 21, 149
Red-cheeked, xx, 1, 136
Red-crowned, xx, 13, 140
Red-headed, xx, 13, 140
Red-rumped, xxi, 4, 144
Red-shouldered, xxii, 18, 155
Red-sided, xx, 7, 138
Red-winged, xx, 5, 137
Regent, xx, 4, 137
Ringneck. xxi, 18, 148
Rock, xxii, 4, 1 51
Rosella. See Rosella.

Scarlet-breasted, xx, 2, 136
Scarlet-chested, xxii, 7, 152
Shell, xxii, 17, 155
Smutty, xxi, 14, 147
Splendid Grass, xxii, 7, I5 2

Parrot ( continued )

Superb, xx, 2, 136
Swamp, xxii, 19, 156
Swift, xxii, 18, 155
Turquoise, xxii, 6, 152
Twenty-eight, xxi, 20, 148
Varied, xxi, 5, 144
Warbling Grass, xxii, 17, 155
Yellow, xxi, 10, 146
Yellow-banded, xxi, 19, 148
Yellow-cheeked, xxi, 11, 146
Zebra, xxii, 17, 155

Parrot-finch, Tricoloured, xxviii, 7, 198
Parson-bird, xviii, 5, i 2 4
Partridge Bronze-wing, xiii, 9, 88
Smith’s, xiii, 10, 89
Partridge Pigeon, xiii, 10, 89
Bare-eyed, xiii, 10, 89
Naked-eyed, xiii, 10, 89
Passer domesticus, appendix, 9, 293
montanus, appendix, 8, 292
Pebbler, Rock, xx, 4, 137
Pediotiomus torquatus, xxvii, 18, 194
Peewee, viii, 1, 50
Peewee-lark, xi, 2, 72
Peewit, viii, 1, 50
Pelagodroma marina, xxxv, 3, 266
Pelecanoides urinatrix, xxxv, 16, 270
Pelecanus conspicillatus, i, 2, 3
Pelican, i, 2, 3

Peltohyas australis , xxxi, 11, 222
Penguin, Big-crested, xxxvi, 2, 278
Blue, xxxvi, 3, 278
Crested, xxxvi, 1, 278
Fairy, xxxvi, 3, 278
Little, xxxvi, 3, 278
Little Blue, xxxvi, 3, 278
Rock-hopper, xxxvi, I, 278
Thick-billed, xxxvi, 2, 278
Tufted Jackass, xxxvi, 1, 278
Victoria, xxxvi, 2, 278
Peter-Peter, x, 7, 64
Petrel, Allied, xxxv, 5, 266
Banks’s, xxxv, 15, 269
Black-and-white, xxxv, II, 268
Black-bellied Storm, xxxv, 4, 266
Blue, xxxv, 12, 268
Brown, xxxvi, 27, 287
Brown-backed, xxxv, 6, 267
Cape, xxxv, 11, 268
Common Diving, xxxv, 16, 270
Diving, xxxv, 16, 270
Dove, xxxv, 13, 269; 14, 269
Flat-clawed Storm, xxxv, 1, 265
Fleshy-footed, xxxvi, 25, 287
Frigate, xxxv, 3, 266
Giant, xxxvi, 28, 287
Gould’s, xxxv, 10, 268
Gould’s Storm, xxxv, 4, 266
Great-winged, xxxv, 7, 267
Grey, xxxvi, 27, 287

INDEX

3 ii

Petrel ( continued )

Grey-backed Storm, xxxy, 2, 265
Grey-faced, xxxv, 7, 267
Pied, xxxv, 11, 268
Pintado, xxxv, 11, 268
Silver-grey, xxxvi, 26, 287
Slender-billed, xxxvi, 23, 286
Smaller Diving, xxxv, 16, 270
Soft-plumaged, xxxv, 8, 267
Spotted, xxxv, 11, 268
Wedge-tailed, xxxvi, 22, 285
White-breasted Storm, xxxv, 3, 266
White-faced Storm, xxxv, 3. 266
White-headed, xxxv, 9, 267
White-winged, xxxv, 10, 268
Wilson’s Storm, xxxv, I, 265
Yellow- webbed Storm, xxxv, 1, 265
Petroica goodenovii , xix, 2, 128
multicolor, xix, 1, 128
phccnicea , xix, 5, 129
rodinogaster, xix, 3, 129
rosea, xix, 4, 129
Petrophassa albipennis, xiii, 6, 87
rufipennis, xiii, 7, 88
Pesoporus wallicus, xxii, 19, 156
Phathon lepturus, xxxvi, 13, 282
rubricaudus, xxxvi, 12, 282
Phalacrocorax ater, xxxii, 23, 239
carbo, xxxii, 22, 238
fuscescens, xxxii, 24, 239
varius, xxxii, 25, 239
Phaps chalcoptera, xiii, 13, 90
elegans, xiii, 12, 90
Pheasant, vi, 4, 39
Native, vi, 1, 37 I 4, 39
Swamp, xxxiii, 24, 250
Pheasant-coucal, xxxiii, 24, 250
Philemon argenticeps, xii, 9, 83
citreogularis , xii, 11, 83
corniculatus, xii, 13, 84
gordoni, xii, 10, 83
yorki, xii, 12, 83

Piuethon lepturus , xxxvi, 13, 282
palpebrata, xxxvi, II, 281
Phony g animus keraudreni, ii, 11, 14
Phylidonyris pyrrho pt era , xx\v, 14, 17*
Piesorhvnchus alecto, xxiii, 15, 161
Pigeon, Bare-eyed Partridge, xiii, 10, 89
Black-banded, iii, 1 7> 22
Blue, ix, r, 57
Bronze-wing, xiii, 13, 90
Brown, iii, i5t 21
Brush Bronze-wing, xiii, 12, 90
Cape, xxxv, 11, 268
Cedar, iii, 6, 18

Chestnut-quilled Rock, xiii, 7, 88
Crested, xiii, 8, 88
Crested Bronze-wing, xiii, 8, 88
Flock, iii, 12, 20 ; xiii, 11, 89
Green-winged, iii, 4 >. T 7
Harlequin Bronze-wing, xiii, II, 89

Pigeon ( continued )

Large- tailed, iii, I5> 21
Little Green, iii, 4, 17
Magnificent Fruit, iii, 13, t 20
Naked-eyed Partridge, xiii, 10, 89
Partridge, xiii, 10, 89
Partridge Bronze-wing, xiii, 9, 88
Pheasant, iii, 15, 21
Plum-breasted, iii, 13, 20
Plumed, xiii, 4, 87
Purple-breasted, iii, 13, 20
Purple-crowned, iii, 2, 16
Red-crowned, iii, 3, 16
Red-plumed, xiii, 5, 87
Rock, xiii, 6, 88
Rose-crowned, iii, 1, 16
Rust-coloured Bronze-wing, xiii, 5, 87
Sea, xxxv, 29, 275

Smith’s Partridge Bronze-wing, xiii

10,89

Spinifex, xiii, 4, 87
Squatter, xiii, 9, 88
Superb Fruit, iii, 2, 16
Swainson’s Fruit, iii, 3, 16
Top-knot, iii, 12, 20, xiii, 8, 88
Torres Strait, iii, 16, 22
White Nutmeg, iii, 16, 22
White-headed, iii, i 4 j 21
White-quilled Rock, xiii, 6, 87
Wompoo, iii, 13* 20
Wonga, xiii, 14, 90
Pilot-bird, vii, 15, 46
Pimlico, xii, 13, 84
Pine-bird, xviii, 5, 124
Pintail, xi, 14, 77
Pipit, xxvii, 11, 191
Pitta, Blue-breasted, vii, 8, 43
Noisy, vii, 7, 43
Rainbow, vii, 6, 43
Pitta iris, vii, 6, 43
mackloti, vii, 8, 43
versicolor, vii, 7, 43
Plain Wanderer, xxvii, 18, 194
Collared, xxvii, 18, 194
Platalea flavipes , xxxii, 14, 235
regia, xxxii, 13, 235
Platycercus adelaidce, xxi, 15, 147
adscitus, xxi, 12, 146
caledonicus , xxi, 13, 146
elegans, xxi, 16, 147
eximius, xxi, 9, 145
flaveolus, xxi, 10, 14b
icterotis, xxi, II, 146
venustus, xxi, 14, 147
Plectorhyncha lanceolata, xii, 3, 80
Plegadis falcinellus , xxxii, 10, 233
Plover, Australian Golden, xxxiv, 22, 261
Australian Long-billed, xxxiv, 30, 264
Banded, xxxi, 25, 227
Black-bellied, xxxiv, 21, 260
Black-breasted, xxxi, 25, 228

312

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Plover ( continued )

Eastern Golden, xxxiv, 22, 261
Flock, xxxi, 25, 228
Golden, xxxiv, 22, 261
Grey, xxxiv, 21, 260
Large-billed Shore, xxxiv, 30, 264
Lesser Golden, xxxiv, 22, 261
Long-legged, xxxi, 20, 226
Masked, xxxi, 23, 227
Pacific Golden, xxxiv, 22, 261
Plain, xxxi, 25, 228
Red-necked, xxxiv, 3, 254
Spur-winged, xxxi, 24, 227
Stone, ix, 12, 61

Swallow, xxxi, 10, 222; xxxiv, 11, 25 7
Tricoloured, xxxi, 25, 228
Wattled, xxxi, 24, 227
Pluff, x, 13, 66

Pluvialis dominions, xxxiv, 22, 261
Podargus, Tawny-shouldered, v, 10, 33
Podargus ocellatus , v, 8, 33
papuensis, v, it, 34
plumiferus, v, 9, 33
strigoides , v, 10, 33
Podiceps cnstatus, xxxii, 8, 233
polio ccphalus, xxxi, 17, 225
ruficollis, xxxi, 16, 224
Poecilodryas cerviniventris , iv, 14, 27
super ciliosa, iv, 13, 27
Poephila acuticauda, xxviii, 17, 201
atropygialis, xxviii, 16, 201
cincta, xxviii, 15, 201
gouldice , xxviii, 13, 200
personata, xxviii, 14, 200
Poliolimnas cinereus, xxiii, 19, 163
Polytelis alexandra , xx, 3, 130.
ant hope plus, xx, 4, 137
swainsoni, xx, 2, 136
Pomatostomus rubeculus, xviii, 6, 125
ruficeps, xviii, 8, 125
super ciliosus, xviii, 7, 125
temporalis, xviii, 5, 124
Poor Soldier, xii, 13, 84
Porphyrio bellus, xxxii, 6, 232
melanotus, xxxii, 5, 231
Porzana fluminea, xxxi, 3, 219
plumbea, xxxi, 5» 220
pusilla, xxxi, 4, 220
Post-boy, x, 7, 64
Post-sitter, x, 7, 64
Pratincole, Australian, xxxi, 10, 222
Oriental, xxxiv, 11, 257
Priocella antarctica, xxxvi, 26, 287
Prion, Broad-billed, xxxv, 13, 269
Dove, xxxv, 15, 269
Fairy, xxxv, 14, 269
Short-billed, xxxv, 14, 269
Prionodura newioniana, ii, 9, 12
Probosciger aterrimus, xx, 18, 141
Procellaria cinerea, xxxvi, 27, 287
Psephotus chrysopterygius, xxi, 2, 143
dts si mills, xxi, 1, 143

Psephotus chrysopterygius ( continued )
hcematogaster, xxi, 7, 145
hamatonotus, xxi, 4, 144
narethce, xxi, 6, 144
pulcherrimus, xxi, 3, 143
varius, xxi, 5, 144
Psitteuteles versicolor, xxii, 13, 154
Psophodes nigrogularis, iv, 23, 30
olivaceus, iv, 22, 30
Pterodroma lessoni, xxxv, 9, 269
leucoptera, xxxv, io, 268
macroptcra, xxxv, 7, 267
mollis , xxxv, 8, 267
Pteropodocys maxima, ix, 7, 59
Ptilinopus ezvingi, iii, 1, 16
regina, iii, 3, 16
superbus, iii, 2, 16

Ptilonorhynchus violaceus, ii, 13, 15
Ptiloris magnificus, ii, 4, 10
paradiseus, ii, 6, 11
victoria, ii, 5, 10
Puffinus assimilis, xxxv, 5, 266
carneipes, xxxvi, 25, 286
gayia, xxxv, 6, 267
griseus, xxxvi, 24, 286
Pacificus, xxxvi, 22, 285
tenuirostris, xxxvi, 23, 286
Pugwall, viii, 1, 50
Pukeko, xxxi, 5, 220; xxxii, 5, 231
Purpureicephalus sp-urius, xxi, 21, 149
Putoto, xxxi, 5, 220
Pycnoptilus floccosus, vii, 15, 46
Pyrrholcemus brunneus, xxv, I, 174

Q.

Quail, Black-backed, xxvii, 16, 193
Black-breasted, vii, 9, 44
Black-fronted, vii, 9, 44
Black-spotted, xxvii, 16, 193
Brown, xxviii, 24, 204
Buff-breasted, xxvii, 13, 192
Butterfly, xxvii, 14, 193
Button, xxvii, 14, 193
Chestnut-backed, xxvii, 12, 192
Chestnut-bellied, xxviii, 26, 204
Chestnut-breasted, xxvii, 15, 193
Dotterel, xxvii, 14, 193
Dwarf, xxviii, 26, 204
King, xxviii, 26, 204
Least, xxviii, 26, 204
Little, xxvii, 14, 193
Mock, xxv. 8. 176
Orange-breasted, xxvii, 16, 193
Painted, vii, 10, 44
Partridge, xxviii. 24, 204
Red-backed, xxvii, 16, 193
Red-chested, xxvii, 15, 193
Scrub, vii, 10, 44
Silver, xxviii, 25, 204
Stubble, xxvii, 17, 194
Swamp, xxviii, 24, 204; 25, 204; 26,
204

Swift-flying, xxvii, 14, 193

INDEX

313

Quail ( continued )

Tasmanian, xxviii, 25, 204
Thick-billed, xxvii, 14, 193
Turkey, xxvii, 18, 194
Varied, vii, 10, 44
Yellow, xxvii, 15, 193
Quail-thrush, Chestnut, vii, 3, 41
Chestnut-breasted, vii, 4, 42
Cinnamon, vii, 2, 41
Nullarbor, vii, 1, 41
Spotted, vii, 5, 42
Quarrian, xxi, 8, 145
Querquedula castanea , xxxiii, 3, 242
gibberifrons, xxxiii, 2, 241
querquedula, xxxiii, 4, 242
Quoyornis georgianus, iv, 11, 26
leucurus, xxiii, n, 160

R.

Rail, Banded Land, xxxi, 8, 221
Buff-banded Land, xxxi, 8, 221
Chestnut, xxxii, 4, 231
Chestnut-breasted, xxxii, 4, 231
Land, xxxi, 8, 221 .

Lewin Water, xxxi, 6, 221
Painted, xxxi, 8, 221
Pectoral, xxxi, 6, 221 ; 8, 221
Red-necked, xxxi, 7, 221
Short- toed, xxxi, 6, 221
Slate-breasted, xxxi, 6, 221
Swamp, xxxi, 5, 220
Tricoloured, xxxi, 7, 221
Rain-bird, iv, 23, 30; viii, 13, 54 * i*» IJ »
60

Rainbow-bird, xi, 14, 77
Rallina tricolor, xxxi, 7, 221
Rallus pectoralis, xxxi, 6, 221
Raven, viii, 16, 55

Recurvirostra nova-hollandia , xxxi, 22,
226

Redbill, xxviii, 5, IQ7 ; xxxii, 5, 231;

xxxv, 30, 276; 31, 2 76
Redhead, xix, 2, 128; xxviii, 5, *97
Redthroat, xxv,I, 174
Reed-bird, xxviii, 23, 203
Reed-warbler, xxviii, 23, 202
Regent, Mock, xiv, 16, 97
Regent-bird, ii, 8, 12
Rhipidura flabellifera, x, 19, 67
leucophrys, x, 21, 68
rufifrons, iv, 3, 2 3
setosa, x, 18, 67

Rhynchaea, Australian, xxxi, 15, 224
Rifle-bird, Lesser, ii, 5, 10
Magnificent, ii, 4, 10
Paradise, ii, 6, 11
Victoria, ii, 5, 10
Ring Coachman, xi, 1, 72
Ringeye, xiv, 13, 06
Ringlet, xix, 16, 133
Ringneck, xiv, 13, 96; xix, 16, 133
Robin, Ashy-fronted, iv, 12, 27
Bark, x, 4, 63

Robin ( continued )

Black, x, 3, 63
Black-and-white, x, 3, 63
Buff-sided, iv, 14, 27
Dusky, x, 29, 71
Flame, xix, 5, 129
Flame-breasted, xix, 5, 129
Fly, iv, 17, 28
Grey-breasted, x, 6, 64
Grey-breasted Shrike, x, 6, 64
Grey-headed, iv, 12, 26
Hooded, x, 3, 62
Large-headed, iv, 16, 28
Little Yellow, x, 5, 63
Magenta-breasted, xix, 3, 129
Mangrove, xxiii 11, 160
Northern Scrub, vii, 18, 47
Northern Yellow, iv, 15, 27
Pale Yellow, iv, 16, 28
Pink, xix, 3, 129
Pink-breasted, xix, 3, 129
Pied, x, 3, 63
Redbreast, xix, 1, 128
Red-capped, xix, 2, 128
Rock, vii, 14, 45
Rose, xix, 4, 129
Rose-breasted, xix, 4, 129
Scarlet, xix, 1, 128
Scarlet-breasted, xix, 1, 128
Southern Scrub, vii, 17, 47
Southern Yellow, x, 4, 63
Stump, x, 29, 71
Western Yellow, x, 6, 63
White-breasted, iv, 11, 26
White-browed, iv, 13, 27
White-capped, xix, 1, 128
White-faced, iv, 17, 28
White-tailed Shrike, xxiii, 11, 160
White-throated, iv, 17, 28
Yellow-breasted Shrike, x, 4, 63
Rock-pigeon, xiii, 6, 88
Chestnut-quilled, xiii, 7, 88
White-quilled, xiii, 6, 87
Roller, Broad-billed, xi, 13, 76
Rosella, xxi, 9, 145
Adelaide, xxi, 15, 147
Crimson, xxi, 16, 147
Eastern, xxi, 9, 145
Green, xxi, 13, 146
Moreton Bay, xxi, 12, 146
Northern, xxi, 14, 147
Pale-headed, xxi, 12, 146
Western, xxi, 11, 146
Yellow, xxi, TO. 146
Rosina coronata , xxvi, 14, 187
Rostratula australis, xxxi, 15, 224

S.

Sanderlitig, xxxiv, 17, 529
Sandpiper, xi, 14, 77; xxxiv, 4, 254; io,
256

314

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Sandpiper ( continued )

Asiatic, xxxiv, 20, 260
Broad-billed, xxxiv, 28, 263
Common, xxxiv, 16, 258
Curlew, xxxiv, 19, 260
Curley, xxxiv, 19, 260
Grey, xxxiv, 21, 260
Grey-rumped, xxxiv, 14, 258
Marsh, xxxi, 19, 225 ; xxxiv, 20, 260
Pectoral, xxxiv, 20, 260
Red-necked, xxxiv, 18, 259
Sharp-tailed, xxxiv, 20, 260
Siberian, xxxiv, 20, 260
Terek, xxxiv, 12, 257
Wood, xxxi, 18, 225
Scale-bird, xi, 8, 75
Scenopcretes dentirostris, iii, 11, 20
Scissors Grinder, x, 20, 68
Scooper, xxxi, 22, 226
Scrub Fowl, vi, 5, 39
Hen, vi, 5, 39
Turkey, vi, 3, 38
Scrub-bird, Noisy, vii, 19, 47
Rufous, vii, 20, 48
Scrub-robin, Northern, vii, 18, 47
Southern, vii, 17, 47
Scrub-tit, xvi, 2, 108; xxiv, I, 167
Short-billed, xvi, 2, 108
Yellow-tinted, xvi, 1, 108
Scrub- war bier, xxv, 6, 176
Shy, xxv, 7, 176
Scrub-wren, Brown, xxiv, 7, 169
Buff-breasted, xxiv, 3, 167
Large-billed, xxiv, 6, 168
Little, xxiv, 4, 168
Spotted, xxiv, 5, 168
White-browed, xxiv, 2, 167
Yellow-throated, ii, 2, 9
Scythrops novoe-hollandice, ix, 11, 60
Seagull, xxxv, 29, 275
Sea-pirate, xxxvi, 17, 284
Seal-bird, xxxvi, 23, 286
Seapie, xxxv, 30, 276
Seisura inquieta, x, 20, 68
Semitone-bird, xi, 8, 75
Sericornis frontalis, xxiv, 2, 167
humilis, xxiv, 7, 169
laevigaster, xxiv, 3, 167
lathami, ii, 2, 9
maculatus, xxiv, 5, 168
magnirostris, xxiv, 6, 168
minimus, xxiv, 4, 168
Sericulus chrysocephalus, ii, 8, 12
Settler's Clock, ix, 9, 59
Shag, xxxii, 9, 233
Black, xxxii, 22, 238
Black-and-white, xxxii, 24, 239; 25, 239
Frilled, xxxii, 26, 240
Little Black, xxxii, 23, 239
Little Black-and-white, xxxii, 26, 240
Shearwater, Allied, xxxv, 5, 266
Bonaparte’s, xxxvi, 23, 286

Shearwater ( continued )

Dusky, xxxv, 5, 266
Fleshy-footed, xxxvi, 25, 286
Fluttering, xxxv, 6, 267
Little, xxxv, 5, 266
Pale-footed, xxxvi, 25, 287
Short-tailed, xxxvi, 23, 286
Sombre, xxxvi, 24, 286
Sooty, xxxvi, 23, 286; 24, 286
Wedge-tailed, xxxvi, 22, 285
Shelduck, Chestnut-breasted, xxxiii, 14,
246

Chestnut-coloured, xxxiii, 14, 246
White-headed, xxxiii, 13, 245
Shepherd’s Companion, x, 21, 68
Shoveller, Blue-winged, xxxiii, 16, 247
Shrike, Barred Cuckoo, ix, 6, 58
Black-faced Cuckoo, ix, 1, 57
Black-throated Crow, viii, 5, 51
Collared Crow, viii, 3, 51
Falcon, x, 11, 65
Gascoyne Cuckoo, ix, 5, 58
Grey Crow, viii, 13, 54
Ground Cuckoo, ix, 7, 59
Hill Crow, viii, 12, 54
Little Cuckoo, ix, 3, 58
Papuan Cuckoo, ix, 4, 58
Pied Crow, viii, 14, 55
Piping Crow, viii, 8, 52
Sooty Crow, viii, n, 54
Swainson’s Cuckoo, ix, 6, 58
Varied Crow, viii, 8, 52
White-breasted Cuckoo, ix, 2, 57
Shrike-robin, Grey-breasted, x, 6, 64
White-tailed, xxiii, 11, 160
Yellow-breasted, x, 4, 63
Shrike-thrush, Bower, iv, 21, 29
Brown, x, 14, 66
Brown-breasted, x, 17, 67
Buff-bellied, x, 16, 67
Grey, x, 13, 66
Little, x, 15, 66
Rufous, iv, 20, 29
Rufous-breasted, iv, 20, 29
Stripe-breasted, iv, 21, 29
Western, x, 16, 67
Shrike-tit, Eastern, x, 11, 65
Frontal, x, 11, 65
Northern, x, 10, 65
Western, x, 12, 65
Sickle-bird, xxxii, 11, 234
Silver-eye, Grey-backed, xv, 2, 100
Grey-breasted, xv, 3, 101
Pale, xv, 5, 1 01
Western, xv, 4, 101
Yellow, xxiii, 13, 161
Singing-lark, Rufous-rumped, xi, 20, 79
Sittella, Black-capped, xvii, 2, 118
Orange-winged, xvii, 1, 118
Pied, xvii, 5, 119
Striated, xvii, 3, 118
White-headed, xvii, 4, 119

INDEX

315

Sittella ( continued )

White-winged, xvii, 6, 119
Sivve, xv, 3, 101
Skua, Arctic, xxxvi, 17, 283
Dark, xxxvi, 16, 283
Dark Southern, xxxvi, 16, 283
Richardson’s, xxxvi, 17, 284
Skylark, xi, 20, 79 ; xxvii, 10, 191 ; I9»
194; appendix, 5, 292
Smoker, xx, 4, 137
Smicrornis brevirostris, xvi, 2, 108
flavescens, xvi I, 108
Snake-bird, xii, 5, 81 ; xxxii, 9, 233
Snapper, x, 19, 68
Snipe, Australian, xxxi, 13, 223
Australian Painted, xxxi, 15, 224
Common, xxxi, 13, 223
Jack, xxxi, 13, 223
Japanese, xxxi, 13, 223
Land, xxxiv, 18, 259
Large Pin-tailed, xxxi, 14, 224
Latham, xxxi, 13, 223
Little Australian, xxxi, 14, 224
Painted, xxxi, 15, 224
Pin-tailed, xxxi, 14, 224
Rottnest, xxxi, 21, 226
Summer, xxxiv, 16, 258
Soldier-bird, xii, 5, 81
Song-lark, Brown, xxvii, 19, 194
Rufous, xi, 20, 79
Sparrow, Barley, xxviii, 12, 200
Common, appendix, 9, 293
Diamond, xxviii, 9> J 99
House, appendix, 9, 293
Java, xxviii, 9, 199
Satin, xi, 6, 74
Tree, appendix, 8, 292
Water, xxviii, 23, 203
Sparrow-hawk, xxix, 1, 206; 2, 206
Collared, xxix, 2, 206
Spatula rhynchotis, xxxiii, 16, 247
Sphecotheres flaviventris , iii, 8, 18
vieilloti, iii, 7,1%

Sphenostoma cristatum , xviii, 4» * 2 4
Spinebill, Eastern, xv, 14, 104
Western, xv, 15, 105
White-browed, xv, IS, 105
Spinetail, vii, 12, 45 ; xi, 14, 77
Spalding’s, vii, II, 44
Spine-tailed Log-runner, vii, 12, 45
Spinks, x, 7, 64
Spinifex-bird, xxv, 2, 174
Spoonbill, Black-billed, xxxii, 13, 235
Royal, xxxii, 13, 235
Yellow-billed, xxxii, 14, 235
Yellow-legged, xxxii, 14, 235
Squatarola squatarola, xxxiv, 21, 260
Squeaker, viii, 13, 54 \ xii, 5, 81 ; xix, 6,
130

Starling, appendix, 10, 293
Shining, ii, 7, 11

Steganopleura annulosa, xxviii, 1, 196
bichenovii, xxviii, 2, 196
Sterna albifrons, xxxv, 21, 272
ancetheta, xxxv, 25, 273
bengalensis, xxxv, 20, 271
bergii, xxxv, 19, 271
dougalli, xxxi, 29, 229
fuscata, xxxv, 24, 273
nereis , xxxv, 22, 272
striata, xxxv, 18, 270
sumatrana, xxxv, 23, 272
Stercorarius parasiticus, xxxvi, 17, 283
Stick-bird, xviii, 7, 125
Stictonetta ncevosa, xxxiii, 9, 244
Stilt, Banded, xxxi, 21, 226
Pied, xxxi, 20, 226
White-headed, xxxi, 20, 226
Stilt-bird, xxxi, 20, 226
Stiltia isabella, xxxi, 10, 222
Stinker, xxxiii, 16, 247; xxxvi, 28, 287
Stint, Curlew, xxxiv, 19, 259
Little, xxxiv, 18, 259
Red-necked, xxxiv, 18, 259
Sharp-tailed, xxxiv, 20, 259
S tipi turns malachurus, xxv, 3, 175
mallee, xxv, 4, 175
Stomiopera unicolor, xii, 8, 82
Stone-curlew, ix, 12, 61
Stone-plover, ix, 12, 61
Stork, Black-necked, i, 6, 5
Storm-bird, x, 22, 69; xi, 8, 75
Little, xxxiv, n, 257
Strep era arguta, viii, 12, 54
fuliginosa, viii, 11, 54
graculina, viii, 14, 55
intermedia , viii, 15, 55
melanoptera, viii, 10, 53
versicolor, viii, 13, 54
Streptopelia suratensis, appendix, 1, 291
Struthidea cinerea, ix, 10, 60
Stubble-quail, xxvii, 17, 194
Stump-bird, x, 7, 64
Sturnus vulgaris, appendix, 10, 293
Sula dactylatra, xxxvi, 21, 285
leucogaster, xxxvi, 18, 284
serrator , xxxvi, 20, 285
sula, xxxvi, 19, 284
Summer-bird, ix, 1, 57; xi, 17, 78
Sunbird, Yellow-breasted, xv, 1, 100
Swainson's Cuckoo-shrike, ix, 6, 58
Swallow, Black-and-white, xxvii, 8, 191
Black-faced Wood, xi, 16, 77
Bottle, xxvii, 6, 190
Cliff, xxvii, 6, 190
Dicaeum, xvi, 10, ill
Dusky Wood, xxvii, 2, 188
House, xxvii, 7, 190
Land, xxvii, 6, 190
Little Wood, xxvii, 1, 188
Masked, Wood, xi, 18, 78
Rock, vii, 14, 45

3i6

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

Swallow ( continued )

Sea, xxxv, 21, 272; 22, 272
Sordid Wood, xxvii, 2, 188
Tree, xi, 19, 79
Welcome, xxvii, 7, 190
White-backed, xxvii, 8, 190
White-breasted, xxvii, 8, 191
White-breasted Wood, xi, 15, 77
White-browed Wood, xi, 17, 78
White-capped, xxvii, 8, 191
Swallow, Plover, xxxi, 10, 222; xxxiv,
11, 256

Swamp-hen, Little, xxxi, 5, 220
Swamp-rail, xxxi, 5, 220
Swan, Black, 1, 8, 5
Swift, Fork-tailed, xxvii, 4, 189
Needle-tailed, xxvii, 5, 189
Spine-tailed, xxvii, 5, 189
White-rumped, xxvii, 4, 189
Swiftlet, Grey, xxvii, 3, 189
Syma torotoro, xxiii, 16, 162
Synoicus australis, xxviii, 24, 204
ypsilophorus, xxviii, 25, 204

T;

Tadorna radjah, xxxiii, 13, 245
Tceniopygia castanotis, xxviii, 3, 196
Takupu, xxxvi, 20, 285
Talegallus, Wattled, Vi, 3, 38
Tang, xix, 16, 133
Tanysiptera sylvia, iv, 1, 23
Tattler, Grey-tailed, xxxiv, 14, 258
Wandering, xxxiv, 13, 257
Teal, Black, xxxiii, 3, 242
Chestnut, xxxiii, 3, 242
Chestnut-breasted, xxxiii, 3, 242
Cricket, xxxiii, 4, 242
Garganey, xxxiii, 4, 242
Green Goose, xxxiii, 7, 243
Green-headed, xxxiii, 3, 242
Grey, xxxiii, 2, 241
Mountain, xxxiii, 3, 242
Slender, xxxiii, 2, 241
Summer, xxxiii, 4, 242
White-quilled Goose, xxxiii, 6, 243
Wood, xxxiii, 2, 241
Teaser, xxxvi, 17, 284
Terekia cincrea, xxxiv, 12, 257
Tern, Bass Strait, xxxv, 19, 271
Black-lored, xxxv, 21, 272
Black-naped, xxxv, 23, 272
Bridled, xxxv, 25, 273
Brown-winged, xxxv, 25, 273
Caspian, xxxv, 17, 270
Crested, xxxv, 19, 271
Dog, xxxv, 25, 2 73
Eastern White-winged, xxxi, 26, 228
Fairy, xxxv, 22, 272
Graceful, xxxi, 29, 229
Gull-billed, xxxi, 28, 229
Lesser Crested, xxxv, 20, 271

Tern ( continued )

Little, xxxv, 21, 272; 22, 272
Long-legged, xxxi, 28, 229
Marsh, xxxi, 27, 228
Panayan, xxxv, 25, 273
Roseate, xxxi, 29, 229
Ruppell, xxxv, 19, 271
Smaller Sooty, xxxv, 25, 273
Sooty, xxxv, 24, 273
Southern White-fronted, xxxv, 18, 271
Swift, xxxv, 19, 271
Torres Strait, xxxv, 19, 271
Whiskered, xxxi, 27, 228
White-fronted, xxxv, 18, 270
White-winged Black, xxxi, 26, 228
Wide-awake, xxxv, 24, 273
Tcrnlet, White-faced, xxxv, 22, 272
White-shafted, xxxv, 21, 272
Tete, xxxiii, 3, 242
Thickhead, iv, 18, 28
Big-billed, x, 1, 62
Black-lored, xviii, 2, 123
Brown, xxiii, 12, 161
Gilbert, xviii, 2, 123
Olive, iv, 19, 29
Red-lored, xviii, 1, 123
Red-throated, xviii, 1, 123
Rufous-breasted, xi, 1, 72
White-bellied, xxiii, 14, 161
Thick-knee, ix, 12, 61
Thornbill, Broad-tailed, xvi, 19, 114
Brown, xvi, 18, 114
Buff-tailed, xix, 14, 132
Chestnut-tailed, xix, 15, 133
Dark, xix, 11, 131
Ewing’s, xvi, 14, 113
Inland, xvi, 21, 115
Little, xvi, 11, 112
Mountain, xvi, 16, 113
Red-tailed, xvi, 20, 114
Robust, xvi, 17, 1 13
Rufous-rumped, xvi, 20, 114
Scrub, xvi, 18, 114
Slender, xix, 10, 131
Striated, xvi, 12, 112
Tasmanian, xvi, 14, 113
Western, xvi, 13, 112
White-vented, xvi, 21, 115
Whitlock, xvi, 15, 113
Varied, xix, 12, 132
Yellow-tailed, xix, 13, 132
Threskiornis molucca, xxxii, 11, 234
spinicollis, xxxii, 12, 234
Thrush, Babbling, vii, 5, 42
Bower Shrike, iv, 21, 29
Brown Shrike, x, 14, 66
Brown-breasted Shrike, x, 17, 67
Buff-bellied Shrike, x, 16, 67
Chestnut-backed Ground, vii, 3, 42
Chestnut-breasted Ground, vii, 4, 42

INDEX

3*7

Thrush ( continued )

Chestnut Quail, vii, 3, 41
Chestnut-breasted Quail, vii, 4, 42
Cinnamon Ground, vii, 2, 41
Cinnamon Quail, vii, 2, 41
Continental Song, appendix, 4, 291
Green, iii, 6, 18
Grey Shrike, x, 13, 66
Ground, vii, 5, 42 ; 16, 46
Harmonious, x, 13, 66
King, vii, 16, 46
Little, xi, 1, 72
Little Shrike, x, 15, 66
Mountain, vii, 16, 46
Native, iv, 19, 29; x, 13, 66
Nullarbor Quail, vii, 1, 41
Red, iv, 20, 29

Rufous-breasted Shrike, iv, 20, 29
Rufous Shrike, iv, 20, 29
Song, appendix, 4, 291
Spotted Quail, vii, 5, 42
Stripe-breasted Shrike, iv, 21, 29
Western Shrike, x, 16, 67
Thunder-bird, iv, 18, 28; xi, 1, 72
Tintac, Banded, xix, 16, 133
bellow, xix, 18, 134
Tit, Bark, x, n, 65; xix, 14, 132
Blood, xix, 21, 135
Blue, xxvi, 1, 182
Brown, xvi, 18, 114
Buff-rumped, xix, 14, 132
Chestnut-rum ped, xix, 15, 133
Dark Brown, xix, 11, 131
Eastern Shrike, x, 11, 65
Frontal Shrike, x, 11, 65
Lake Way, xvi, 15, 113
Little, xvi, 11, 1x2
Northern Shrike, x, 10, 65
Plain-coloured, xvi, 13, 112
Short-billed Scrub, xvi, 2, 108
Short-billed Tree, xvi, 2, 108
Scrub, xvi, 2, 108; xxiv, 1, 167
Striated, xvi, 12, 112
Thick-billed, xvi, 17, H3
Thin-billed, xix, 10, 131
Western Shrike, x, 12, 65
White-scaled, xvi, 15, H3
Yellow-rumped, xix, 13, 132
Yellow-tinted Scrub, xvi, 1, 108
Yellow-tinted Tree, xvi, 1, 108
Tit-warbler, Buff-rumped, xix, 14, 132
Chestnut-rumped, xix, 15, 133
Scaly-breasted, xix, 12, 132
Yellow-rumped, xix, 13, 132
Titmouse, White-faced, xix, 6, 130
Tom Pudding, xxxi, 17, 225
Top-knot, appendix, 2, 291
Torea, xxxv, 30, 276
Torco-pango, xxxv, 31* 276
Toroa, xxxvi, 4, 279

Toucan, ix, 11, 60
Tree Martin, xi, 19, 78
Tree-creeper, Allied xvii, 15, 122
Black, xvii, 9, 120
Black-tailed, xvii, 14, 122
Brown, xvii, 7, 119
Little, xvii, n, 121
Red-browed, xvii, 12, 121
Rufous, xvii, 8, 120
White-browed, xvii, 13, 121
White-throated, xvii, 10, 120
Tree-runner, xvii, 1, 118
Tree-swallow, xi, 19, 79
Tree-tit, Short-billed, xvi, 2, 108
Yellow-tinted, xvi, 1, 108
Tribonyx mortieri, xxxii, 2, 230
ventralis, xxxii, 1, 230
Trie hod ere cocker elli, xiv, 3* 92
Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus, xxii,

154

moluccanus, xxii, 16, 154
rubritorquis, xxii, 15, 154
Triller, Varied, xi, 3, 73
White- winged, xi, 2, 72
Tringa, Marsh, xxxiv, 20, 260
Trhiga brevipes, xxxiv, 14, 258
glare ola, xxxi, 18, 225
hypoleuca, xxxiv, 16, 258
incana, xxxiv, 13, 257
nebularia, xxxiv, 15, 258
stagnatilis, xxxi, 19, 225
Tropic-bird, Red -tailed, xxxvi, 12, 282
White-tailed, xxxvi, 13, 282
Trotter, Lily, xxxi, 12, 223
Trumpet-bird, ii, 11, 14
Trumpeter, xxxi, 22, 226
Turdus merula, appendix, 3, 291
philomelos, appendix, 4, 291
Turkey, Brush, vi, 3, 38
Plain, i, 5, 4
Scrub, vi, 3, 38
Quail, xxvii, 18, T94
Turkey-bird, xiv, 16, 97
Turnix castanota, xxvii, 12, 192
maculosa, xxvii, 16, 193
melanogaster , vii, 9, 44
olivet, xxvii, 13, 192
pyrrhothorax , xxvii, 15, 193
varia, vii, 10, 44
velox, xxvii, 14, 193
Turnstone, xxxiv, 29, 264
Eastern, xxxiv, 29, 264
Turtle-dove, xiii. 2, 186
Indian, appendix, 1, 291
Twelve Apostles, ix, 10, 60; xviii, 5, 124
Tyto alba, v, 1, 31
castanops , v, 5, 32
longimembris, v, 6, 32
novat-hollandice , v, 3, 31
n. troughtoni, v, 4, 32
tenebricosa, v, 2, 31

318

THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA

U.

Uroaetus audax, xxx, 9, 215

V.

Village Blacksmith, xxxv, 19, 271

W.

Wagtail, x, 21, 68
Crested, x, 20, 68
Land, x, 19, 68
Willie, x, 21, 68

Wanderer, Collared, xxvii, 18, 194
Plain, xxvii, 18, 194
Warbler, Black-throated, xvi, 8, no
Blue, xxvi, 1, 182
Brown, xvi, 4, 109
Brown Bush, xvi, 4, 109
Buff-breasted, xvi, 7, no
Buff-rumped Tit, xix, 14, 132
Chestnut-rumped Tit, xix, 15, 133
Dusky, xxiii, 3, 157
Exiled, xxviii, 20, 202
Fairy, xvi, 5, 109
Fantail, xxviii, 20, 202
Golden-headed Fantail, xxviii, 20, 202
Grass, xxviii, 20, 202
Green-backed, xxiii, 2, 157
Large-billed, xxiii, 1, 157
Large-billed Bush, xxiii, 1, 157
Mangrove, xxiii, 4, 158
Marsh, xxviii, 21, 203
Northern, xvi, 6, no
Reed, xxviii, 21, 203; 23, 203
Rock, vii, 14, 45
Scaly-breasted Tit, xix, 12, 132
Scrub, xxv, 6, 176
Shy Scrub, xxv, 7, 176
Singing, xxiii, 4, 158
Speckled, xix, 21, 135
Superb, xxvi, I, 182
Western, xvi, 9, in
White-throated, xvi, 3, 109
White-throated Bush, xvi, 3, 109
Yellow, xvi, 5, no
Yellow-rumped Tit, xix, 13, 132
Wattle-bird, xii, 15, 85
Brush, xxiv, 19, 173
Little, xxiv, 19, 173
Red, xii, 14, 84
Yellow, xii, 15, 85
Waxbill, xxviii, 5, 197
Sydney xxviii, 5, 197
Wee Juggler, xx, 12, 139
Weebill, Brown, xvi, 2, 108
Yellow, xvi, 1, 108
Wedgebill, xviii, 4, 124
Whale-bird, xxxv, 13, 269; 14, 269; 15,
269; 24, 273; xxxvi, 23, 286
Wherrybill, Yellow-breasted, iv, 4, 24
Whimbrel, xxxiv, 26, 262
Australian, xxxiv, 26, 262

Whimbrel ( continued )

Little, xxxiv, 27, 263
Whip-bird, Eastern, iv, 22, 30
Western, iv, 23, 30
Whisker, Yellow, xiv, 21, 99
Whisky, xiv, 21, 99
Whistler, Black-tailed, x, 2, 62
Big-billed, x. 1, 62
Brown, xxiii, 12, 160
Gilbert, xviii, 2, 123
Golden, iv, 18, 28
Grey, ii, 3, 10
Olive, iv, 19, 29
Red-throated, xviii, 1, 123
Robust, x, 1, 62
Rufous, xi, 1, 72
Rufous-breasted, xi, 1, 72
White-breasted, xxiii, 14, 161
White-throated, iv, 18, 28
Yellow-breasted, iv, 18, 28
Whistling Dick, x, 13. 66
White-eye, xv, 3, 101
Pale-bellied, xv, 5, 101
Yellow, xxiii, 13, 161
White-face, Banded, xix, 9, 131
Black-banded, xix, 9, 131
Chestnut-breasted, xix, 8, 130
Eastern, xix, 6, 130
Western, xix, 7, 130
White-tail, x, 7, 64
Widgeon, xxxiii, 10, 244
Willaroo, ix, 12, 61
Willie-willock, xx, 8, 138
Willock, xx, 8, 138
Windhover, xxix, 1, 206
Wonga-wonga, xiii, 14, 90
Woodpecker, xvii, 1, 118; 7, 119
Wood-swallow, Black-faced, xi, 16, 77
Dusky, xxvii, 2, 188
Little, xxvii, 1, 188
Masked, xi, 18, 78
Sordid, xxvii, 2, 188
White-breasted, xi, 15, 77
White-browed, xi, 17, 78
Wren, Banded, xxvi, 4, 183
Black Grass, xxv, 20, 180
Black-and-white, xxvi, 5, 183
Black-backed, xxvi, 2, 182
Black-headed, xxvi, 13, 186
Blue, xxvi, 1, 182
Blue-and- white, xxvi, 6, 184
Blue-breasted, xxvi, 12, 186
Brown Scrub, xxiv, 7, 169
Buff-breasted Scrub, xxiv, 3, 167
Chestnut-rumped Ground, xxv. 6, 176
Chestnut-tailed Ground, xxv, 6, 176
Dorothy Grass, xxv, 19, 179
Dusky Grass, xxv, 13, 178
Emu, xxv, 3, 175
Eyrean Grass, xxv, 17, 179
Fern, vii, 13, 45
Graceful, xxvi, 10, 185

INDEX

3i9

Wren ( continued )

Heath, xxv, 6, 175
jenny, xix, 16, 133; 21, 135
Lambert’s, xxvi, 8, 185
Large-billed Scrub, xxiv, 6 , 168
Little, xix, 21, 135
Little Scrub, xxiv, 4, 168
Lovely, xxvi, 11, 186
Mallee Emu, xxv, 4, 175
Mormon, xxvi, I, 182
Purple-backed, xxvi, 9, 185
Purple-crowned, xxvi, 14, 187
Red-backed, xxvi, 13, 186
Red-winged, xxvi, 10, 185
Rock Field, xxv, 9, 177
Rufous-crowned Emu, xxv, 5, 175
Rufous Field, xxv, 10, 177
Rufous Grass, xxv, 16, 179
Rusty Field, xxv, 11, 177
Scarlet-backed, xxvi, 13, 186
Shy Ground, xxv, 7, 176
Shy Heath, xxv, 7, 176
Splendid, xxvi, 4, 183
Spotted Scrub, xxiv, 5, 168
Striated Field, xxv, 8, 176
Striated Grass, xxv, 15, 178
Striped Grass, xxv, 15, 178
Thick-billed Grass, xxv, 14, 178
Turquoise, xxvi, 3, 183
Variegated, xxvi, 8, 184
Western Grass, xxv, 12, 177

Wren (continued)

White-backed, xxvi, 7, 184
White-browed Scrub, xxiv, 2, 167
White-throated Grass, xxv, 18, 179
White-winged, xxvi, 6, 184
Yellow-throated Scrub, ii, 2, 9

X.

Xanthotis flaviventer, xii, 1, 80
Xenorhynchus asiaticus, i, 6, 5

Y.

Yahoo, xviii, 5, 124
Yellow Bob, x, 4, 63
Yellow-hammer, x, 4, 63; 11, 65
Yellow-tail, xix, 13, 132
Yelper, xxxi, 22, 226

Z.

Zanthomiza phrygia, xiv, 16, 97
Zonceginthus bellus, xxiv, 10, 170
guttatus, xxviii, 9, 199
oculatus, xxiv, 11, 170
Zonifer tricolor, xxxi, 25, 227
Zosterops albiventris, xv, 5, 101
australasice, xv, 4, 101
halmaturina, xv, 2, 100
lateralis, xv, 3, 101
lutea, xxiii, 13, 161

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