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THE
BIRDS OF EUROPE
BY
JOHN GOULD, F.LS., &.
IN FIVE VOLUMES.
VOL. IL.
INSESSORES.
LONDON:
PRINTED BY RICHARD AND JOHN E. TAYLOR, RED LION COURT, FLEET STREET.
PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR, 20 BROAD STREET, GOLDEN SQUARE.
1837.
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LIST OF PLATES
VOLUME II.
Norz.—As the arrangement of the Plates during the course of publication was found to be impracticable, the Numbers
here given will refer to the Plates when arranged, and the work may be quoted by them.
INSESSORES.
European Goatsucker Caprimulgus Europzus, Linn. 51
Red-collared Goatsucker — ruficollis, Temm. . 52
Swift Cypselus murarius, Temm.
White-bellied Swift alpinus, Temm. . vie
Chimney Swallow Hirundo rustica, Linn. 54
Rufous Swallow rufula, Temm. 55
Rock Martin . rupestris, Linn. 56
Martin urbica, Linn. 57
Sand Martin = riparia, Linn. 58
Bee Eater Merops Apiaster, Linn. 59
Roller Coracias garrulus, Linn. . 60
Kingsfisher : 3 Alcedo Ispida, Linn. 61
Black and White Kingsdeher : ome SHERCDISE Lier 62
Pied Flycatcher Muscicapa luctuosa, Temm.
White-collared Hlyedtchier albicollis, Temm. gs
Red-breasted Flycatcher parva, Bechst. 64
Spotted Flycatcher — grisola, Linn. 65
Great Shrike . Collurio Excubitor, Vig. . 66
Great Grey Shrike . ——-—— meridionalis, Vig. 67
Lesser Grey Shrike minor, Vig. 68
Red-backed Shrike . Lanius Collurio, Linn. 69
Woodchat rufus, Briss. 70
Golden Oriole Oriolus galbula, Linn. 71
Black Ouzel, or Blackbird Merula vulgaris, Ray. 72
Ring Ouzel torquata, Briss. 73
Migratory Ouzel migratoria, Swains. 74
Black-throated Thrush Turdus atrogularis, Temm. 75
Fieldfare pilaris, Linn. 76
Missel Thrush viscivorus, Linn. 77
Song Thrush . MONS 17 a
Redwing : Thacus, Linn.
Naumann’s Thrush . Naumannil, Temm. 79
Pallid Thrush pallidus, Pall. 80
White’s Thrush ——— Whitei, Eyton. 8]
Siberian Thrush — Sibericus, Pall. 82
Water Ouzel . Cinclus aquaticus, Bechsé. 83
Black-bellied Water Ouwel melanogaster, Brehm. . 84
Pallas’s Water Ouzel — Pallasii, Temm. 85
Rock Thrush . Petrocincla saxatilis, Vig. 86
Blue Thrush SSS cyanea, Vig. 87
Black Wheatear Saxicola cachinnans, Temm. 88
Pied Wheatear — leucomela, Temm. 89
Wheatear —— (nanthe, Bechst. 90
Russet Wheatear stapazina, Temm. 91
Black-eared Wheatear aurita, Tem. 92
Whinchat rubetra, Bechst. 93
Stonechat — rubicola, Bechst. 94
Redstart Pheenicura ruticilla, Swains. 95
Black Redstart tithys, Jard. & Selb. 96
Blue-throated Warbler Suecica, Jard. & Selb. 97
LIST
Robin
Alpine Accentor
Hedge Accentor
Mountain Accentor
Reed Locustelle
Brake Locustelle
Willow Locustelle
Creeping Locustelle
Great Sedge Warbler
Olive-tree Salicaria
Reed Wren
Marsh Warbler
Sedge Warbler
Moustached Warbler
Aquatic Warbler
Rufous Sedge Warbler
Fantail Warbler
Cetti’s Warbler
Silky Warbler
Nightingale :
Thrush Nightingale
Gorget Warbler
Orpheus Warbler
Black-cap
Garden Warbler
Ruppell’s Warbler .
Sardinian Warbler .
Sub-alpine Warbler
Common White-throat
Lesser White-throat
Spectacle Warbler .
Marmora’s Warbler
Barred Warbler
Dartford Warbler
Wren A
Willow Wren
Chiff-chaff
Wood Wren
Yellow Willow Wren
Melodious Willow Wren
Natterer’s Warbler
Richard’s Pipit
Meadow Pipit
Tawny Pipit
Rock or Shore Pipit
Tree Pipit ‘
Red-throated Pipit .
Pied Wagtail .
White-winged Wagtail
White Wagtail ;
Yellow-headed Wagtail .
Yellow Wagtail
Grey-headed Wagtail
Grey Wagtail
Fire-crested Wren .
Golden-crested Wren
Dalmatian Regulus
* Named erroneously Sylvia hippolais.
OF PLATES.
Erythaca rubecula, Swains.
Accentor alpinus, Bechst.
modularis, Cwv.
montanellus, Zemm.
Locustella fluviatilis.
avicula, Ray.
——-—\ luscinoides.
certhiola.
Salicaria Turdoides, Selb.
Olivetorum, Strick. .
arundinacea, Selby. .
palustris.
———— Phragmitis, Selb.
——— mclanopovonms
aquatica.
galactotes.
cisticola. .
————? Cetti.
——? sericea. .
Philomela luscinia, Swains.
Turdoides, Blyth.
Calliope Lathamii.
Curruca Orphea. . :
— atricapilla, Bechst.
hortensis, Bechst.
aa SUP PeLlin.
melanocephala, Lath.
leucopogon.
cinerea, Bechst. .
garrula, Bechst.
aa ae Conspicillata.
Sarda.
nisoria. : :
Melizophilus provincialis, Leach.
Troglodytes Europeus, Cuv.
Sylvia trochilus, Gmel.
rufa, Lath *. .
== Silene VAM. 6
—— Icterina, Vieill.
Hippolais, Temm. .
- Nattereri, Temm. .
Anthus Richardi, Vieill. .
pratensis, Bechst.
rufescens, Temm.
aquaticus, Bechst.
——— arboreus, Bechst.
rufogularis, Temm.
Motacilla Yarrelliif.
lugubris, Pall.
alba, Linn.
citreola, Pall.
flava, Ray.
neglecta, Gould.
Boarula, Lath.
Regulus ignicapillus, Cwv.
vulgaris, Cu.
= INCH. -
+ Named erroneously Motacilla alba. As I have every reason to believe that this species, one of the most elegant and
familiar of our native birds, will prove to be quite distinct from either Motacilla lugubris or Motacilla alba, I would beg
leave to name it after my valued friend William Yarrell, Esq.
EUROPEAN GOATSUCKER.
Caprimulgus Europeus, Zevz./
LDrai yu from Nature & on Stone by hE. Could: Printed by C Fallmoamdel.
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Genus CAPRIMULGUS, Linn.
Gen. Cuar. Bill very short, weak, curved at the tip, broad and depressed at the base; the
upper mandible deflected at the point; gape very large, and extending to or beyond the
posterior angle of the eyes; basal’edge of the upper mandible bordered with strong move-
able bristles, directed forwards. Nosérz/s basal, tubular; or with a large prominent rim,
clothed with very small feathers. Wings long, the first quill shorter than the second,
which is the longest of all. Taz/ rounded or forked, of ten feathers. Tarsi short. Toes
three before and one behind, the anterior ones united as far as the first joint by a mem-
brane ; the claw of the middle toe broad, and serrated on the inner edge.
EUROPEAN GOATSUCKER.
Caprimulgus europzeus, Linn.
L’Engoulevent ordinaire.
Tue Caprimulgus europeus was until within the last few years the only species of this curious and interesting
race of birds known to inhabit Europe; a second has, however, been discovered by M. Natterer in the South
of Spain, and described by him under the name of Caprimulgus ruficollis, from the conspicuous red band which
crosses the back of the neck, certainly a far more appropriate term than the one (ewropeus) given to the
present bird, which is now applicable to both species, or to any others that may hereafter be discovered.
The European Goatsucker is a migratory bird, inhabiting all the temperate portions of Europe during
summer, and retiring southward beyond the Mediterranean on the approach of winter. It arrives in the
British Islands from the middle to the end of May, and departs again about the latter end of September or
beginning of October. While here it is distributed over the whole of the kingdom, residing in woods, plan-
tations, thick beds of fern, (whence its provincial name of Fern Owl,) and districts clothed with tall grasses.
Being strictly nocturnal in its habits, it avoids as much as possible the bright light of day, but on the ap-
proach of twilight it may be seen hawking for Melolonthe, Phalene, and other nocturnal insects.
The flight of the Goatsucker is rapid in the extreme while in pursuit of its prey, and is accompanied by a
number of evolutions, similar to those of the Swallow, but which are, if possible, performed with still greater
ease and facility.
It makes no nest, but lays two eggs on the bare ground, amongst fern, heath, or long grass, sometimes in
woods or furze, but always near woods, in which it may conceal itself by day. The eggs are white, marbled
with light brown and grey.
The Goatsucker reposes mostly on the ground; and when it perches on the limb of a tree, it is commonly
along the branch, and not across it like other birds.
«« The male,” says Montagu, ‘‘ makes a very singular noise during the period of incubation, not unlike the
sound of a large spinning-wheel, and which it is observed to utter perched, with the head downwards ; besides
which it emits a sharp squeak, repeated as it flies.”
The whole of the upper surface and the throat are of an ashy grey, numerously spotted and streaked with
dark brown, and tinged with pale or yellowish brown; the head and back streaked longitudinally with black ;
beneath the base of the under mandible runs a stripe of white, which extends along each side of the head ;
in the centre of the throat a patch of white ; under surface yellowish brown, transversely barred with black ;
outer webs of the quills blotched with red brown, the three exterior feathers having a large white patch on
the inner webs near their tips; tail irregularly marked with black, grey, and yellowish brown, two outer
tail-feathers on each side deeply tipped with white; bill and irides dark brown ; tarsi pale brown.
The female differs from the male only in being destitute of the white spots on the quill-feathers, and of the
white tips of the lateral tail-feathers.
We have figured a male of the natural size.
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ED-COLLARED GOATSUCKER.
Caprumulgus ruficollis; (Zmm/ Poa
Dram from Nedure & on stone by SkF Codd: 8 j Printed by C Fellmeandel,
RED-COLLARED GOATSUCKER.
Caprimulgus ruficollis, Temm.
L'Engoulevent a collier roux.
Turoveu the kindness of Mr. John Natterer and the Directors of the Imperial Cabinet at Vienna, who have
liberally forwarded the original specimen for our use, we are enabled to give a figure of this interesting
species of Goatsucker, which is so extremely rare, that we know of no examples in the museums of this
country, nor in any of those on the Continent, with the exception of Vienna. Northern Africa is, we doubt
not, its natural habitat, whence it may occasionally pass into Europe, but so rarely that no other examples are
on record than those referred to in the following notes, which accompanied the above-mentioned specimen, and
which we prefer giving in M. Natterer’s own words. .
“< Caprimulgus ruficolis: male. Shot the 14th of July, 1817, some miles distant from Algeziras, in the oak-
woods by daylight. Iris dark brown; legs reddish grey; nostrils oval with their borders much elevated ;
length, 12 inches 8 lines ; extent of the wings, 22: inches; the tail exceeding the wings by 12 inch.
‘« Another male was shot on the 20th of July in the valley of the Rio del Miel near Algeziras, flying very
low, an hour after sunset. Length, 13 inches and 3 lines; extent of the wings, 23: inches; the tail exceeding
the wings by 1 inch and 8 lines.
** The female I shot while flying near the same spot on the 21st of July. Length, 12 inches and 8 lines ;
extent of the wings, 223 inches; the tail exceeding the wings by 2 inches. The female closely resembles the
male, differing only in having less white on the throat; the white tips of the two outer tail-feathers only 8
lines long, and tinged with brown on the outer web; the white spots on the three first primary quills smaller
and tinged with ochre, and without any corresponding mark on the outer web as in the male; the remainder
of the plumage is exactly the same as that of the male.
‘The name of the bird in the part of Spain where it was killed is Samada.. It seems to be a very rare
bird, for I passed several nights in the adjacent woods without discovering any more examples.”
The male may be thus described :
Forehead, sides, and back of the head, back, and six centre tail-feathers ashy brown, with numerous
extremely fine freckles of dark brown, which are most decided on the tail-feathers, where they assume the
form of irregular bars; feathers on the centre of the head dark brown with paler edges freckled with a darker
tint; throat, sides of the face, ear-coverts, and back of the neck rufous, which is very rich on the latter,
where it forms a decided collar; from the angle of the mouth to the back of the neck passes a narrow line of
white; on each side of the neck an irregular patch of white feathers with a crescent mark of deep brown at
the tip; wing-coverts the same as the back, but having the tip of each feather rufous; scapularies dark brown,
with a broad margin of buff on their outer edge, and with grey freckled with dark brown on the inner ;
primaries dull brown; with a broad white spot on the inner web, forming a bar on the under side of the wings
and a faint indication of it on the outer web; the secondaries and the tips of the primaries, particularly on
their mner webs, having irregular and faint markings of grey; two outer tail-feathers on each side dark
brown, irregularly blotched on the outer web with reddish brown and largely tipped with white; all the
under-surface pale rufous, with irregular transverse arrow-shaped markings of deep brown, which are most
numerous on the breast; bill and feet reddish grey.
We have figured the male of the natural size.
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SWIFT.
1. Cypselus murarius, /Z7nm./
Genus CYPSELUS, Ihe.
Gen. Cuar. Beak very short, triangular, large, all its base concealed, depressed; gape ex-
tending beyond the eyes; upper mandible hooked at the point; nostri/s longitudinal, near
the ridge of the beak, open, the edges raised and furnished with small feathers. Tarse
very short. Toes four, all directed forwards and entirely divided; nazls short, strong
and hooked. Taz/ composed of ten feathers. Wings very long; the first quell-feather a
little shorter than the second.
SWIFT.
Cypselus murarius, Temm.
Le Martinet.
We know of no birds, and certainly none in Europe, possessed of equal power of flight with the species of
the present genus: in fact, their natural habitat appears to be the air, their short feet and strong claws serving
more especially to cling to the rough surface of rocks, towers, and high buildings, or firmly securing them
while in a state of repose. Their extraordinary length of wing, combined with the shortness of their tarsi,
prevents them walking on, or rising from, any level situation, unless by repeated exertions, or taking advan-
tage of some slight elevation; they are therefore seldom, if ever, to be seen on the ground. These birds are
distinguished not only by the velocity of their flight, but by the smooth and graceful sweeps they take during
their aérial career in pursuit of the various insects constituting their food. In fine and serene weather, when
these insect tribes ascend to an almost incredible elevation, the Swifts occupy the highest regions of the atmo-
sphere, persevering in the chase almost beyond the reach of sight. Their degree of elevation, however,
doubtless depends on that of the insects, and the latter on the influence of the weather; so that the low or
high flight of these birds may be taken as a barometrical index of the state of the air, and the consequent pro-
bability of rai or the contrary.
The Swift, which is spread over Europe generally, is essentially migratory. It arrives in England at the
beginning of May, and leaves us again as early as August or September. It breeds in old buildings, steeples,
ruins, towers, and rocks. The eggs are white.
The colour of the plumage, with the exception of the throat, which is white, is of a uniform sooty-black
with bronze-coloured reflections. The sexes offer no external marks of distinction.
WHITE-BELLIED SWIFT.
Cypselus alpinus, Zemm.
Le Martinet a ventre blanc.
Tue claims of this fine Swift to a place in the Fauna of Great Britain rest on the circumstance of one noticed
by Mr. Selby in the ‘‘ Transactions of the Northumberland, Newcastle, and Durham Natural History Society ;”
and one we have personally inspected, which was killed by the gardener of R. Holford, Esq., on his estate
at Kingsgate near Margate, in whose possession it now remains.
The natural habitat of the Cypselus alpinus is more exclusively limited to the middle of the southern dis-
tricts of Europe, particularly its alpine regions, and the shores of the Mediterranean, being very abundant at
Gibraltar, Sardinia, Malta, and throughout the whole of the Archipelago; and to these may also be added the
northern parts of Africa. In its manners it closely resembles our well-known Swift, but possesses, if possible,
still greater powers of flight.
It would appear that the clefts of rocks and high buildings are the sites which this bird chooses for the
purpose of nidification ; the female laying three or four eggs of a uniform ivory white.
The sexes of this species present but little differences, the colour of the female being rather less decided ;
in the male a uniform greyish brown is spread over the whole of the upper surface, which descends across the
breast in the form of a band, along the flanks and over the inferior tail-coverts ; the throat and the middle of
the belly are of a pure white, the tarsi covered with brown feathers, and the irides brown. Length from
nine to ten inches.
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CHIMNEY SWALLOW.
Hirundo rustica, (Zznm:/
Lrown prom Nabiwek on stone by TAL, Cond Lrunkeds by C Zallmanded.
Genus HIRUNDO, Linn.
Gen. Cuar. Bill short, much depressed, wide at the base; upper mandible bent at the
tip and carinated ; the gape extending as far back as the eyes. Nostri/s basal, oblong,
partly covered by a membrane. ‘Tarsz short. Toes slender, three before and one behind ;
the outer toe united to the middle one as far as the first joint. Taz/ of twelve feathers,
generally forked. Wings long, acuminate, the first quill-feather the longest.
CHIMNEY SWALLOW.
Hirundo rustica, Lenn.
L/Hirondelle de Cheminée ou domestique.
Tue migration of the Swallow and the laws which regulate its movements are now so well understood that it
will scarcely be necessary to advert to them here. In the British Islands and in all other portions of the
European Continent, the period of its arrival may be calculated upon with tolerable certainty, a scattered few
generally appearing in all parts of the same latitude from the fifth to the tenth of April, after which period
their numbers become suddenly augmented, and the work of reproduction is almost immediately proceeded
with. Two broods are generally produced in the course of the season, the first being mostly able to fly before
midsummer, and the second in the month of August. The young on leaving the nest are assiduously supplied
with food, and carefully attended by their parents, until they are sufficiently strong to provide for themselves.
The task of incubation being accomplished, the Swallows congregate in extensive flocks, and in obedience to
the laws of nature retrace their steps, and pass the remainder of the year in more southern countries, where
the insect food so essential to their existence is ever abundant. In this migratory movement, the adults, we
are inclined to believe, always precede their progeny, which remain with us as long as the weather continues
open and a sufficient supply of insects can be obtained for their subsistence.
The members of this aérial tribe are only excelled in their power of flight by the Cypsel, or Swifts, and
are seen to the greatest advantage in the air, where their dexterity in securing their prey, the manner in
which they drink while passing over the stream, and the celerity with which they feed their young while on
the wing, cannot fail to call forth our admiration.
It is now generally admitted that the Barn Swallow of America is quite distinct from the British species ;
consequently the range of our bird is limited to the Old World. In the summer months the Hirundo rustica
is universally dispersed over the whole of Europe, whence, as before stated, it migrates periodically into tro-
pical regions; and as all migratory animals move from north to south, and vice versd, Africa constitutes its
winter residence.
In the British Islands the sites chosen for its nests are the interiors of chimneys and of coal-pits; but in
many parts of the Continent, where these situations are not frequently met with, it builds on church towers,
old ruins, the eaves of houses, barns, and other outbuildings. The eggs are four or five in number, their
colour white, speckled with reddish brown and pale blue.
Forehead and throat rich chestnut ; the remainder of the head, a band across the breast, and the whole of
the upper surface black with blue reflections ; tail very deeply forked, the two outer feathers extending far
beyond the others; a large white spot on the inner webs of all the feathers, except the two middle ones ; all
the under surface white tinged with reddish brown, which is deepest on the vent and under tail-coverts ; bill
and feet black.
The female has rather less of the rich chestnut on the forehead, the black is less brilliant, and the outer
tail-feathers much shorter than in the male.
The young is entirely destitute of the chestnut on the forehead, the throat is merely tinged with rufous ;
the band across the breast is but faintly indicated ; all the upper surface resembles that of the adult, but the
tints are much more dull; the wings are also shorter, and it is destitute of the long tail-feathers, which are
not acquired till the first moult.
Our Plate represents an adult and a young bird of the natural size.
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RUFOUS SWALLOW.
Hirundo rufula, (7mm /
Drown from Nature & on Stone by S&L, Goubd, Lrinked by C alimoande,
RUFOUS SWALLOW.
Hirundo rufula, Temm.
LHirondelle rousseline.
Aursoues Africa, particularly the southern and western portions of that continent, constitutes the native
habitat of this beautiful species of Swallow, the contiguous portions of Europe are not without its occasional
presence, and notwithstanding it is now considered a portion of the Fauna of this quarter of the globe, still
we do not believe it occurs at regular periods, as is the case with the rundo rustica, but that it occasionally
strays across the Mediterranean from the northern coasts of Africa, where it is also a rare species.
In Le Vaillant’s ‘ Oiseaux d’Afrique’ will be found an interesting account of this species, from which we
learn that it is so familiar that it readily enters the houses of the inhabitants, particularly those in the interior,
frequently building its nest in the sleeping-room of the family; that the nest differs from those of the other
species of the genus, being a hollow ball, the entrance to which is constructed in the form of a long tube,
through which the female passes into the interior, which is lined with any loose and soft materials the bird
may find at hand. The eggs, which are from four to six in number, are white sprinkled with small brown
spots.
Like the other members of the genus, its food consists of insects and their larvee.
The top of the head, occiput, back, and wing-coverts are black with steel blue reflexions; the remainder
of the wings and tail brownish black, with a faint indication of steel blue colour; back of the neck, rump,
and upper tail-coverts deep rufous; sides of the face and throat pale rufous, which colour gradually becomes
deeper and richer on the under-surface, flanks, and under tail-coverts ; beak, irides, and feet black.
The female resembles the male, except that the crown of the head is rust red instead of black, and the tail-
feathers are not so long.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.
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ROCK MARTIN.
Hirundo rupestris,Zam/
eedl by C lonanded.
ROCK MARTIN.
Hirundo rupestris, Lenn.
L’Hirundelle de Rocher.
Turis bird is very abundant along the shores of the Mediterranean, and occurs also in such portions of
Southern Europe as abound in rocky and precipitous places : it is an inhabitant of Savoy and Piedmont, but
is more scarce in Switzerland, Germany, and the middle of France. As far as we are aware, it has never
been found in the northern parts of Europe, nor has it as yet been observed in the British Isles. It is larger
than the Common Sand Martin, to which species it bears a close resémblance both in the colouring of its
plumage and also in its general economy. _It builds its nest and rears its young in the holes of rocks; the
eggs being five or six in number, white, marked with minute dots.
We need hardly observe that its general habits and manners are in strict ee with those of its
family. Its food consists of insects, which it takes during flight.
The sexes offer no distinguishable difference in the markings of their plumage.
The whole of the upper surface is a uniform light brown; the quills and tail-feathers being darker, the
inner webs of all the feathers of the latter, except the two middle ones, having in their centre a large oval
blotch of white ; the under surface is of a dull sandy white, slightly tinged with rufous.
We have figured a male and female of the natural size.
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MARTIN.
Thrundo urbica, Zenx./
Ltrinted by C Zalinanded.
MARTIN.
Hirundo urbica, Lenn.
L’Hirondelle de fencinel
Lixe the Swallow this little fairy-like bird is strictly migratory, resorting during our winters to climes far to
the south of the British Islands, and indeed to any other portion of Europe ; whence it does not return till the
spring, generally making its appearance about the middle of April: but in this respect the Martin, as well as
most other insectivorous birds, is influenced in a great measure by the state of the season, a certain degree
of temperature being necessary for bringing forth the insects upon which its existence depends.
The flight of the Martin is not so rapid, nor attended with such sudden evolutions as that of the graceful
Swallow, but it is nevertheless performed with great ease and buoyancy; and although it does not possess so
long a wing in proportion to its size as any other of its European brethren, and is consequently less adapted
for continued flight, still it is seldom if ever seen. resting either on trees or on the ground, but is continually
traversing the air with apparently untiring wings, except during the period of nidification, when it descends to
the earth for the purpose of collecting mud employed for the construction of its nest, which is erected under
the eaves of houses and windows, the sides of rocks, under the arches of bridges, &c.: the nest when com-
plete is a most compact and solid structure, firmly cemented together, the labour of one day being allowed
to remain until the substance has got hard and dry, before the little mason proceeds to heap on more wet
materials ; the only means of ingress or egress is a small hole on the most sheltered side of the nest: the
interior is well lined with straw, hay, and feathers. The eggs are five in number, of a pinkish white. At first
the young birds are fed in the nest, afterwards the parents cling to the outside by means of their claws, and
feed them at the entrance ; when able to fly, they are fed on the wing for a considerable time, like the Swallow,
and they occasionally resort to the house-top, or to the branches of some neighbouring tree, where they are
also supplied with food by their parents, until they have acquired sufficient strength and confidence to launch
forth and provide for themselves.
Like the Swallow, the Martin produces two broods in the year, the first of which are able to fly in July,
and the second in August or the beginning of September. arly in October the Martins assemble in large
flocks, frequently so numerous as almost to cover the roofs of houses, particularly in the villages situated on
the borders of the Thames. About the middle of the month they commence their migration, continuing
to depart in flocks till the early part of November, after the sixth or eighth of which month few are to be
seen.
The notes of its song, which is frequently uttered during the period of incubation, are guttural, but soft and
pleasing.
The female differs but little from the male: the young during the first autumn are readily distinguished by
the less degree of brilliancy in their colouring.
The head, back of the neck, and back glossy bluish black ; wings and tail brownish black ; rump and all
the under surface pure white; bill black ; tarsi and toes clothed with white downy feathers.
We have figured an adult male and female of the natural size.
SAND MARTIN.
‘ Hirundo riparia, /Len7/
Draven from Nauure bon stone ty Sk ool: Printed by C Fallmondel:
SAND MARTIN.
Hirundo riparia, Lenn.
L’Hirondelle de rivage.
Wir the exception of the place chosen for the purpose of incubation, the Sand Martin resembles its
congeners; but in this respect the whole tribe of which this delicate species forms a part, are singularly
different, both as regards the form of their nests and the situations chosen for their reception: for instance,
if we examine the four species which take up their summer residence in the British Islands, we find that the
Swift is directed to ruins, particularly inaccessible towers, and large public buildings; the Swallow gives
preference to the entrances of chimneys and the mouths of pits ; while the little Fairy Martin adheres its hard
clay nest to the sides of our dwellings, as if to court our protection and care; and the delicate little bird
which forms the subject of the present plate is directed by the impulse of nature to nidify in places
remarkably different from either of these, viz., steep and precipitous sand-banks, pits of chalk, &c., more
particularly the former, appearing to give a preference to banks overhanging water, though we have
occasionally observed their breeding-places far remote from any water. In the most imaccessible parts of
these situations this little excavator digs a horizontal hole of considerable depth, sometimes even to three or
four feet, at the far end of which it places a nest, loosely constructed of dried grass and feathers, in which are
deposited four or five delicate egys, of a clear white. As soon as the young gain sufficient strength, they
reach the edge of their subterraneous passage, and at an early period wing their way after their parents, who
soon teach them to capture insects for themselves and become independent of their assistance.
The task of reproduction being performed, the Sand Martin congregates in flocks, which are greatly
augmented by the end of autumn, at which period the multitude assembled almost surpasses belief. ‘The
naturalist cannot look upon the vast herd of these little birds which collect to roost in the osier-beds on the
banks of the Thames before their final departure, without admiring the design of an all-wise Creator in
protecting these humble creatures during the period above alluded to, as by their means alone are kept in
subjection the vast myriads of insects, which would otherwise become so numerous as to defy the power of
man, with all his ingenuity, either to annihilate, or to work any apparent diminution of their numbers.
We have often observed the Sand Martin as early as the month of March, from which circumstance it must
be ranked among the earliest of our summer visitors. There are few birds that have a more extensive range,
being common throughout Europe, the continent of Africa, some portions of India, and, if we mistake not, it
is spread over a great portion of the American continent.
It feeds exclusively on flies, which it captures on the wing, being endowed with powers of flight equal to
any other species of the genus.
The sexes are alike in plumage, and the young of the year resemble the adults, except that the feathers
of the upper parts are edged with a lighter margin.
The top of the head, upper surface, the body, and tail dark brown; throat, belly, and under tail-coverts
white ; primaries, bill, and feet blackish brown.
The young of the year have the same colouring as the adult, except that each feather on the upper surface
is bordered with yellowish white.
We have figured an adult, and a young bird of the year, of the natural size.
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} Ser teh iis rh M Wt tek Les be on whip yee eh LTE {stingy ¥
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f bite pak iT Gee hg ea A ah rested ai ey SIG in isiinonl fel fine Avie rest,
. Ja Cs LE wee ee hae ele: feeb eeades onetlen atetel ity a Be
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Y MDL
BEEK BATER.
Merops Apiaster /Ze727/
Dram trom Lite bs on Sema by SEL, Gould. Lroried by C udimanads
Genus MEROPS.
Gen. Cuar. Beak elongated, pointed, quadrangular, slightly arched, the ridge elevated.
Nostrils basal, lateral, ovoid, open, slightly covered by hair directed forward. Tars? short.
Toes three before and one behind; the second toe united to the middle one as far as the
second articulation, and the middle toe to the inner one as far as the first articulation; the
hind toe large at its base, with a very small claw ; the second quil-feather the longest, the
first very short.
BEE-EATER.
Merops apiaster, Lznn.
Le Guepier vulgaire.
Tue station which the species of this genus occupy appears to be intermediate between the Kingsfishers on
the one hand, and the Swallows on the other: to the former they are allied by their elongated form of beak,
shortness of tarsi, brilliancy of plumage, similarity of places of nidification, and the white colour of the eggs ;
and to the latter by their gregarious habits, their lengthened wing, their great and continuous powers of flight,
and their manner of capturing while on wing the insects which constitute their food.
The present beautiful species is we believe the only one of its genus which Europe can claim as its own.
It is a bird of migratory habits, visiting, in the greatest abundance, the warmer portions of the Continent,
especially Italy, Spain, Sicily, the Archipelago, and Turkey; and, not unfrequently, France, Germany and
Switzerland, straying at uncertain intervals across the Channel to the shores of England, sometimes singly, and
sometimes in small flocks of eight, ten, or even twenty, but never remaining with us or attempting to breed,
our climate being in all respects uncongenial to its habits. Montague informs us that it is nowhere so
plentiful as in the southern parts of Russia, particularly about the rivers Don and Volga.
In the situation it chooses for a place of nidification, it greatly resembles our Sand-Martins, preferring
precipitous sand-banks and the edges of rivers, in which it scoops out deep holes, generally in an oblique
direction.
The eggs are from five to seven in number, of a pure white ; but whether deposited on the bare ground or
in a nest we are not able to say with any degree of certainty, as it is a point on which different authors hold
contradictory opinions.
In its manners it very much resembles the Swallow tribec, ontinuing like them for a length of time on the
wing, and traversing backwards and forwards in pursuit of its food, which consists of flies, gnats, and small
coleoptera, as well as bees and wasps, to which it is peculiarly partial, and from which it derives its name.
Although its flight is, as above stated, like that of the Swallow, still we are informed its allied species in India
are frequently in the habit of taking their food like the Flycatchers, whose manners they closely imitate, sitting
motionless on a branch, darting at the insects as they pass, and returning again to their station. We have
some grounds for suspecting that this peculiarity obtains more or less with all the species of this genus.
The sexes of the Bee-eater in general offer no material differences of plumage, except perhaps that the
colours of the female are rather more obscure,—a circumstance which, as in the Kingsfisher, extends also to
the young, the adult colouring of the plumage being assumed at an early age.
The beak is black, and one inch and three quarters in length; the irides red; the forehead yellowish
white merging into blueish green; the occiput, back of the neck, and upper part of the back rich chestnut,
fading off on the rump into a brownish amber; from the base of the beak proceeds a black mark which
passes beneath the eye, and spreads over the coverts of the ear; the wings, except a large middle stripe of
brown, are greenish, with something of an olive tinge ; the quill-feathers inclining to blue and ending in black ;
the tail greenish; the chin and throat bright yellow, bounded by a black line which ascending reaches the ear-
coverts; the breast and whole of the under surface blue, intermingled with reflections of green ; the first
quill-feather rudimentary, the second the longest.
The tail is square with the exception of the two middle feathers, which are an inch longer than the others ;
feet and tarsi reddish brown. Total length from ten to eleven inches.
We have represented an adult male in its finest state of plumage.
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ROLLER.
Coracias garrula; (Zin /
Dron fron lyfe and: om Stone by The Could ' Printed ty Bedimandd
Se -
Genus CORACIAS.
Gen. Cuar. Beak moderate, compressed, higher than broad, straight, cutting; wpper mandible
curved towards the point. NVosérd/s basal, lateral, linear, pierced diagonally, partly closed
by a membrane furnished with feathers. Feet, tarsus shorter than the middle toe, three
toes before and one behind, entirely divided. Wings long, first primary a little shorter
than the second which is the longest.
ROLLER.
Coracias garrulus, Lenn.
Le Rollier vulgaire.
Tue Roller is one of the most beautiful of birds, and although the extraordinary brilliancy of its plumage,
varying in an assemblage of the finest shades of blue and green, as well as its great rarity, might render its
claim to a place in our Fauna doubtful in the minds of some of our readers to whom the species is but little
known, so many instances of its occurrence in this country will be found recorded by various authors, that it
is our pleasant duty to consider it British as well as European.
This handsome bird is said to be common in the oak forests of Germany, and also in many of those of
Denmark and Sweden. It is less plentiful in France, and according to M. Temminck is never seen in Holland.
Its capture in this country has generally happened along the extended line of our eastern coast, from Norfolk
northwards. Frequenting large woods generally, it builds in the holes of decayed trees, and lays from four to
seven eggs of a smooth and shining white, in form a short oval almost round, very like those of our King-
fisher, but much larger.
The whole length of this bird is about twelve inches ; the bill is black towards the point, becoming brown
at the base, with a few bristles ; irides of two circles, yellow and brown ; head, neck, breast and belly various
shades of verditer blue, changing to pale green ; shoulders azure blue ; ee reddish brown ; rump purple ;
wing primaries dark blueish black, edged lighter ; tail-feathers pale greenish blue, the outer ones tipped with
black, those in the middle are also much darker in colour; legs reddish brown. In old niales the outer tail-
feathers are somewhat elongated. Adult females differ but little from the males, but young birds do not
attain their brilliant colours till the second year.
Their food consists of worms, snails and insects generally, and in their habits these birds are remarkably
noisy and restless.
Our figure is of the natural size, and was taken from a fine adult male.
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KINGFISHER.
Alcedo ispida, (Lin.
Drain trom Lie and on Stone by Jb. Goudd: y Lronted by C Liimanded
Genus ALCEDO.
Gen. Cuan. Beak long, straight, quadrangular, and acute. Nostrils placed at the base of
the beak, oblique, and nearly closed by anaked membrane. Feet small ; tarsi short, naked.
Toes three before, of which the external toe is united to the middle one as far as the
second articulation, and the middle toe to the inner one as far as the first; hind toe large
at its junction with the tarsus. ‘Third guell-feather the longest.
KINGSFISHER.
Alcedo ispida, Lznn.
Martin pécheur.
Wuen we behold the brilliant colours of this bird as it darts by us like a meteor, displaying the metallic
lustre of its plumage, we cannot help fancying for the moment that we behold some erratic native of a
tropical clime.
The appetite of the Kingsfisher is voracious, and his manners shy and retiring: dwelling near lonely and
sequestered brooks and rivers, he sits for hours together motionless and solitary on some branch overhanging
the stream, patiently watching the motions of the smaller fishes which constitute his food ; waiting for a
favourable moment to dart with the velocity of an arrow upon the first that is near enough the surface or
within the reach of his aim, seldom failing in the attempt. He then returns to his former station on some large
stone or branch, where he commences the destruction of his captive, which is effected by shifting its position
in his bill, so as to grasp it firmly near the tail, and then striking its head smartly against the object on which
he rests: he now reverses its position, and swallows it head foremost ; the indigestible parts are afterwards
ejected in a manner analogous to that of the Owls and birds of prey.
The Kingsfisher, however, does not confine himself entirely to this mode of watching in motionless solitude ;
but should the stream be broad, or no favourable station for espionage present itself, he may be seen poising
himself over it at an altitude of ten or fifteen feet, scrutinizing the element below for his food,—plunging upon
it with a velocity which often carries him considerably below the surface. For these habits his muscular
wedge-shaped body, increasing gradually from a long pointed bill, aided by the sleek metal-like surface of the
plumage, which at the same time freely passes through and throws off the water, seems expressly to adapt him.
The wing of the Kingsfisher is short but powerful ; hence its flight is smooth, even, and exceedingly rapid.
Silent except during the pairing and breeding season, (when he occasionally utters a sharp piercing cry,
indicative perhaps of attachment, ) and equally solitary and unsocial in his habits, the Kingsfisher dwells alone,
seldom consorting with others, or even with his mate, except in the period of incubation and during the
rearing of the young, when their joint labours are necessary, and both unite with great assiduity in the office of
procuring the requisite supplies of food. The places selected for this purpose are steep and secluded banks
overhanging ponds or rivers, where in a hole, generally at a considerable distance above the surface of the
water, and extending to the depth of two or three feet into the bank, the female, without making a nest,
lays five or six eggs of a beautiful pinky white. As soon as the young are hatched, the parent birds may be
seen incessantly passing to and from the hole with food, the ejected exuviee of which in a short time form
around the unfledged brood a putrid and offensive mass.
The young do not leave the hole until fully fledged and capable of flight ; when, seated on some neighbour-
ing branch, they may be known by their clamorous twittering, greeting their parents as they pass, from whom
they impatiently expect their supplies. In a short time, however, they commence plundering for themselves,
assuming at that early age nearly the adult plumage. The /cedo cspida is the only species of the genus found
in Europe, the western parts of which, including the British Isles, seem to be its proper habitat. The young
appear to possess habits of partial migration, at least in our British Islands, wandering from the interior
parts along the courses of rivers to the coast, frequenting, in the autumnal and winter months, the mouths
of small rivulets and dykes near the sea; but more particularly those along the line of the southern coast and
the shores of adjacent inlets.
The annexed Plate represents a male, between which and the female there is no distinguishing difference
of plumage. The bill is black; irides dark; the crown of the head, cheeks, and wing-coverts, of a deep
shining green, each feather tipt with a lighter metallic hue ; the rest of the upper surface, a brilliant azure ;
the ear-feathers rufous, behind which a white spot extends to the nape of the neck. The throat white, the
under surface fine rufous ; the legs bright orange.
Length seven inches ; weight from two ounces to two and a half.
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BLACK AND WHITE KINGFISHER.
Aleedo pudis; Aex707 }
- POST. Visi 6 ACAI A OH SOHNE CV ee HY
BLACK AND WHITE KINGSFISHER.
Alcedo rudis, Linn.
Le Martin Pécheur Pie.
AxrHouGH the continents of Africa and Asia constitute the natural habitat of this species, still from its occur-
rence in some of the islands of the Grecian Archipelago, it is necessarily added to the Fauna of Europe,
although it is but a rare and accidental visitor. It is abundantly dispersed over the whole of Africa, particu-
larly on the banks of the Nile and the other rivers of Egypt, as also those of Syria and the adjacent countries.
The discovery of this Kingsfisher in a quarter of the globe where until lately only a single species had been
found, renders it a bird of great interest, and we regret that we cannot lay before our readers any authentic
information relative to its peculiar habits and manners. In the third part of his “‘ Manuel” M. Temminck
merely states that it feeds on fishes, and lays white eggs. In the form of its bill and in its general structure, it
so nearly resembles the A/cedo isprda, that although differing from it in size and in the character of its plu-
mage, we may reasonably suppose its general economy to be in strict accordance with that species.
As is the case with most species of its tribe, the plumage of the sexes is very similar ; the female and young,
however, appear to have the chest crossed with a somewhat narrow and single band of white, while the male
has two bands, the upper one of which becomes very broad towards the shoulders, and gradually diminishes
towards the middle of the chest; in other respects they are so similar that one description will be sufficient.
Crown of the head and occiput black ; the whole of the upper surface varied with numerous bars of black
and white, the latter colour terminating and bordering all the feathers ; a black band extends from the angle
of the beak and spreads over the ears; all the under parts white except the bands of black, which extend
across the chest ; primaries black; tail white at the base, the remainder barred with black and white ; bill
black ; feet reddish brown.
The Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
1PIED FLYCATCHER. 2,WHITE-COLLARED FLYCATCHER.
e
Muscicapa lncnosa; (/72m/ Muscaeapa albicollis (Zam/
]) 4 Tin Ar. / ope en se 7 gq 77, zx a a a
LTA [VU NANCE Oy HI bY / BL Coane. VuHtedn Oy l: LL
PIED FLYCATCHER.
Muscicapa luctuosa, Temm.
Le Gobe-mouche becfigue.
In the British Isles this interesting little bird is exceedingly local in the districts it chooses for its periodical
visits. Arriving, on the return of spring, from the more congenial and warmer portions of the Old Continent,
it takes up its abode, not, as might be expected, in the southern parts of our island, but in the northern
and midland counties, especially Lancashire, Yorkshire and Derbyshire, finding probably either food or some
other inducement, of which we have no knowledge, that is suited to its wants. In France and Germany it
is far from being scarce ; but its most favourite tract is along the European shores of the Mediterranean, and
over the whole of Italy. In Holland, and, we believe, in Denmark, Sweden and Russia, it is never seen.
The Pied Flycatcher is a most active and unwearied pursuer of the insect tribes, being continually in
motion, darting at them as they pass, or searching after them among leaves and flowers. Whether it be for
the sake of the fruit itself, or for the insects which abound near the figs, certain it is, that from the circum-
stance of the bird being constantly found in the neighbourhood of fig trees, it has obtained the name of
Beccafico. Jt constructs a nest in the holes of trees, and lays from four to six eggs, of a uniform pale blue
colour.
WHITE-COLLARED FLYCATCHER.
Muscicapa albicollis, Temm.
Le Gobe-mouche a collier.
Autuoucs we have seen this species in a collection of British birds, and were informed that it was supposed
to have been killed in England, still we have every reason to believe that it seldom advances so far north as
England, or even the adjacent provinces of France or Germany; it is in fact more strictly confined to the
central portion and Asiatic confines of Europe.
As regards the distinguishing characteristics of these two closely allied species, we may observe, that the
adults in the plumage of summer may be easily distinguished from each other by the absence in the former of
the entire collar round the neck ; but to render the description of both these species more complete, we beg
leave to translate the following passage from the valuable Manuel d’ Ornithologie of M. Temminck: “The
female of the two species, the males in their winter clothing, and the young, all resemble each other so closely
as frequently to deceive. ‘They may be easily distinguished, except in the first species, by the little white
speculum which occupies the centre of the wing in JZ. albzcollis, whilst the wing is of one colour in
M. luctuosa ; secondly, by the lateral feathers of the tail, of which the two external have the edge whitish, more
or less spread, according to age, in JZ. albecollis, whilst in the J. ductuosa the three lateral tail-feathers are
slightly bordered with white edges. The manner of living, the note or call, and the song of the male offer
very marked differences: the eggs also differ in colour. It is to M. Lotinguer that we are indebted for the
knowledge of the double moult which annually takes place in these birds.”
In winter, according to the above-quoted author, both these species lose the black plumage of summer, and
assume a uniform brown livery over all the upper parts, at which season the young, female and males,
resemble each other: on the return of spring they moult again, the males assuming their black livery.
In the month of October, and during the greater part of the winter, both these species collect in countless
flocks in Italy, where they are known by the common term of Becegjici, and at which time they are taken in
immense numbers for the table, being considered an especial luxury.
The eggs of M. albicollis are greenish blue spotted with brown,
The Plate represents a male and female of AZ. ductuosa, and a male of J. albicollis, of the natural size, in
the plumage of summer.
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RED-BREASTED FLY-CATCHER.
Musacapa parva; (Zechsé:/
Tran from Shaiuwe & on stone by ThE Could. * Printed ty CBulimandd:
RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER.
Muscicapa parva, Bechst.
Le Gobe-mouche rougeatre.
So rare is this species of Flycatcher in the collections of Europe, and so little has been recorded of its history,
that we are led to hope that the accompanying Plate illustrating the old and young bird, and the present notice
of its habits and manners, will prove a trifling addition to our knowledge of European ornithology. During a
recent visit to Vienna we had opportunities of observing it in a living state, both in its immature and adult
plumage. Its actions and manners are strikingly peculiar, and appear to partake of those appertaining to the’
species of more than one genus; it resembles the Robin not only in the colour of its plumage but in several
of its actions, being sprightly and animated, constantly jerking its tail and depressing its head in the manner
our Redbreast is observed to do; it also imitates the action of the Whinchat in the depressed oscillating
movement of the tail: thus it appears to form an intermediate link between the Muscicapide on the one hand,
and the Saaicoline on the other. In the comparative length and robust form of its legs this intermediate
station is also further evinced ; for though the tarsi have not the strength which we see in the true Sazicole,
still they are more developed than in the genuine Flycatchers. It is a bird of migratory habits, and in Europe
its habitat appears to be limited almost exclusively to the eastern portions of the continent. It is tolerably
abundant in the neighbourhood of Vienna, and is known to breed annually in the woods of that district.
From the circumstance of our having seen it in collections from the East Indies, particularly from that portion
adjacent to Persia, it is doubtless widely diffused over the intermediate regions.
The sexes are alike in their colouring, but the female is less brilliant than the male. The upper figure in
our Plate represents an adult male, and the lower one that of the young bird of the year in its second plumage,
the first having been spotted like that of the Robin. M.'Temminck states that the moult is simple, but that
the colours of the plumage, particularly on the under surface, change periodically. Like the Muscicapide in
general, the Red-breasted Flycatcher is quick and active, taking its prey on the wing with great dexterity.
Its food consists of soft-winged insects, to which in all probability berries are occasionally added.
The nest, according to M. Temminck, is placed among the interwoven twigs of trees or in the forks of the
branches, but of the number or colour of its eggs no information has yet reached us.
The male has the whole of the upper surface brown; the four middle tail-feathers and the extremities of
the outer ones blackish brown; the base of the latter being white; the throat and breast of a bright rufous ;
the under surface white tinged with rufous brown on the flanks ; the beak, legs, and irides brown.
The young have the breast, which is so richly tinted in the adult, white with a slight tinge of yellow.
The figures are of the natural size.
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SPOTTED FLYCATCHER.
Muscicapa grisola; Zaue/
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LRPO IL IY ESTE OLE Ee Ca Printed by C Balimanded.
SPOTTED FLYCATCHER.
Muscicapa grisola, Lznn.
Le Gobe-mouche gris.
Turis species, like its congener the Pied Flycatcher, is one of the summer visitants that enliven our woods and
gardens during this most pleasant season of the year. It is one of the latest of the spring birds, scarcely if
ever arriving before the middle of May; but soon after this period it may be found throughout the whole of
England and a portion of Scotland, wherever there exists a locality suitable to its economy : after remaining
here during the summer, it migrates to more southern and congenial climates during September and
October.
In its universal distribution the Spotted Flycatcher differs very considerably from the Pied Flycatcher, which
is very local in its habitat; it is also less confined to large woods and plantations, and appears to give a pre-
ference to gardens, shrubberies, and orchards. It does not evince the least fear or timidity, but frequently
constructs its nest and rears its young over the door of the cottager, or upon the branches of fruit-trees nailed
against the walls, sometimes in the decayed holes of trees, and frequently upon the ends of the beams or
rafters in the gardener’s tool-house and other outbuildings.
The nest is constructed of moss and small twigs, lined with hair and feathers: the eggs are four or five in
number, of a greyish white spotted with pale reddish brown. When the young quit the nest, they follow
their parents to some neighbouring wood, garden, or plantation, where they are very diligently attended and
fed.
The Spotted Flycatcher appears to enjoy a wide range over the continent of Europe, being very generally
dispersed from the border of the Arctic Circle to its most southern boundary ; and we have also frequently
observed it among collections from India.
It is a most active little bird, and is incessantly engaged in capturing the smaller winged insects which
pass within the range of its chosen territory. Its favourite perch is generally a decayed branch, from which it
sallies forth and ‘‘ returns after each of these aérial attacks.”
Its note is weak and monotonous, being little more than a feeble chirp.
The sexes are precisely alike in the colour and markings of their plumage. The young for a short period
after they first begin to fly have the feathers tipped with a spot of yellowish white, giving them a mottled
appearance.
The whole of the upper surface is brown, the crown of the head being spotted with a darker brown ;
throat and belly white; sides of the neck, breast, and flanks streaked with brown; bill and legs dark brown.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.
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GREAT SHRIKE.
Lanius excubitor, (Ziz/
Colhumious: === ag)
Drown Poi Triried by 0 Gudimanded,
Genus COLLURIO, Vigors.
Gun. Cuar. Beak and feet as in the genus Lanius. Wings somewhat rounded, short; the first
quill-feather shortest ; the second a little shorter than the following ones; the third, fourth
and fifth, the longest and nearly equal. Taz/ elongated, graduated—Type of the genus
Lanius Excubitor, Linn.
GREAT SHRIKE.
Lanius Excubitor, Zznn.
Collurio Excubitor, Vigors.
La Pie-grieche grise.
Tue present species forms the type of the genus Collurio as characterized by Mr. Vigors; and the reasons
which induced that gentleman to separate certain birds from the genus Lanius—of which to form the genus
Collurio,—were a short time ago explained by him to the Committee of Science and Correspondence of the
Zoological Society, in the First Part of whose “‘ Proceedings,” page 42, the distinguishing characteristics of
these two genera are clearly detailed. The principal feature which constitutes the ground of separation consists
in the somewhat rounded form of wing, which in the true Lanii is more pointed,—and in the lengthened and
graduated tail; to this may be added their general superiority of size:—the Grey Shrikes in this point
manifest an ascendancy over the well-known Red-backed Shrike, the more rare Wood-chat, and their allied
congeners.
The Great Shrike is one of the migratory birds of Great Britain, appearing however by no means regularly,
so as to lead us to expect its annual return, but must be considered an uncertain straggler, being in some seasons
very scarce, and in others more abundant, and that only during the months of autumn and winter, so as to
make it rather doubtful whether it ever breeds in our island, although we are aware that such is said to be the
case. It is extensively spread over Continental Europe, in many parts of which it remains stationary throughout
the year; but in others it performs regular periodical migrations, departing and returning with the season.
The C. Excubitor is a bold and courageous bird, attacking others much larger than itself, and destroying
mice, frogs, and small birds for its food, of which however we believe the hard-winged insects constitute a
principal portion. In killing its prey, its chief instrument is its bill, which is thick and strong, and with which
it penetrates the cranium of any small animal within its power. It never strikes with its claws in the manner
of the Hawks, but uses them merely to assist in grasping and thus securing its victim ; for though the legs and
toes are slender and apparently weak, they are well armed with claws and have the power of tight compression.
The most singular fact, however, respecting its mode of feeding or securing its prey, is its well-authenticated
habit of fixing it on a thorn or sharp-pointed stick, which it selects for that purpose, and then proceeding to
tear it to pieces, at the same time satisfying its appetite. Of a New Holland bird, (the Vanga Destructor,)
the same singular habit is recorded.
The specific name of Excubitor, or Sentinel, was given by Linneus as one highly appropriate, from the cir-
cumstance of this bird being used on the Continent by falconers and persons engaged in procuring falcons
for the purpose of hawking, especially the Peregrine during the period of its migrations. The Shrike acts
as a sort of monitor, giving warning to the man in attendance of the approach of the sharp-eyed bird of prey,
the appearance of which, even ata great distance, immediately elicits its querulous chattering cry. A net trap,
artfully contrived, is placed for the capture of the falcon, and a live pigeon secured by a string, over which the
man has perfect controul, allures the falcon to the fatal engine. In the mean time the Shrike, having warned
the man of the near approach of the expected visitant, retires, as the danger increases, to a hole provided for
its safety; there it continues chattering loudly, while the falcon pounces upon the fated pigeon, and is
cunningly enticed by the gradual withdrawing of his victim, which he will not quit, within the circle of the
net: the check-string once pulled, the capture is achieved. For its peculiar aid in this service, the Shrike is
unrivalled, and when hawking was in vogue its merits were duly appreciated.
The favourite resorts of the Great Shrike are high hedges, coppices, and thick trees, among which it breeds,
building a nest composed of grasses, moss, and vegetable fibres, and laying from five to seven white eggs
marked with ash-grey and brownish blotches. The only difference to be observed in the plumage of the sexes,
is that the breast of the female is transversely barred with faint lines of ash colour.
In the adult male the head, neck and back, are of a fine light ash; a band of black passes below the eye,
and covers the ear-feathers ; wings black, with a white spot in the centre, formed by the white bases of the
quill-feathers ; the outer tail-feathers white; the remainder black, terminating with white, which becomes
more contracted as they approach the two middle feathers,—these are entirely black ; beak and feet black.
Length nine inches.
We have figured an adult male.
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GREAT GREY SHRIKE.
Lamus meridionals, em
Collkurio. Vig.
Yet on Stone by J ty Conk.
GREAT GREY SHRIKE.
Lanius meridionalis, Temm.
Collurio meridionalis, Vig.
La Pie-Grieche méridionale.
We are indebted to the kindness and liberality of the officers of the British Museum, for allowing us to
illustrate this fine species of Shrike from a specimen in the collection under their care, to which it was
presented by Captain 8. E. Cook, who obtained it in the centre of Spain; a country which, with Italy, the
southern provinces of France and the districts bordering on the Mediterranean, appears to be its native habitat.
Of the European Shrikes, the Lanius meridionalis is that which comes least under our notice ; it is, however,
the largest of its genus, and may be taken as typical of that group comprehended by Mr. Vigors under the
generic title Colurio,—a group on which we offered some remarks when speaking of that rare British species
the Lanius Excubitor of Linnzeus, with which the present bird closely agrees, but from which it may be distin-
guished by its somewhat greater size, the darker grey of the upper surface, and especially by the beautiful
vinous tinge which prevades the plumage of the breast. In the latter respect, indeed, it resembles the Lanius
minor ; but with this bird it can never be confounded, the disparity of size being at once a distinguishing
character between them, to which we may add the long and pointed wings and less graduated tail in Lanius
minor, as opposed to the short wings and cuneiform tail of the Lanius meridionalis.
The habits and manners of this interesting and natural group, ally the species together as closely as
their forms and colours; and although we have been able to obtain no precise information respecting our
present subject, still we cannot for a moment doubt that it exhibits the same properties and acts the same
tyrannical part in its mode of obtaining food as its British congener, preying upon the larger insects, especially
those of the Coleopterous order, young or feeble birds, and even small mammalia. The nidification and
eggs are unknown.
The top of the head and the whole of the plumage of the back are of a dark ash colour ; a large black
band passes below the eyes and extends over the ear-coverts ; the wings are black, having the origins of the
quill-feathers and the tips of the secondaries white ; the four middle tail-feathers are black, the exterior ones
white; the breast and under part vinous or salmon-colour, fading into grey about the sides and thighs ; bill
and legs black.
The female differs only in having the tints of the plumage more obscure, with faint transverse bars on the
under parts.
We have figured a male in full plumage.
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LESSER GREY SHRIKE.
Lanius minor Zw,
Collurio =) Veg]
Drom trom Lite & on Stone ty Th £. Gouda. trnted by CFubimandel:
LESSER GREY SHRIKE.
Lanius minor, Linn.
Collurio minor, Vg.
La Pie-Grieche a Poitrine rose.
Tue Lesser Grey Shrike, or Rose-breasted Shrike of Temminck, though belonging to that division of the
family to which Mr. Vigors has given the generic title of Collurio, (and which is distinguished from the
restricted genus Lanius by the graduated tail and short rounded wing,) must nevertheless be regarded as
forming a link between these two genera; inasmuch as the tail is rather rounded than decidedly graduated,
and the wings are more lengthened than in any other species of the genus to which it is now assigned.
Of the European Shrikes, the present is certainly one of the most distinguished for the beauty and delicacy
of its colouring: in size, it is inferior to the Lanius Excubitor of Linneus, but possesses a more strong and
robust bill than is found in that bird,—to which, however, in manners, and in the general character of its
plumage, it closely approximates.
The Lanius minor is strictly Continental; no instance, so far as we are aware, being on record of its ever
having visited our Island. From. M. Temminck, to whose acquaintance with the birds of Europe the scientific
world is so much indebted, we learn that its range on the Continent is very extensive, inhabiting, with the
exception of Holland (in which it is rarely seen), Turkey, the Archipelago, Italy and Spain, breeding also in
some parts of France and Germany, and visiting the northern portions of Europe as far as Russia. Thickets,
trees, bushes, and hedge-rows are its favourite resort, among which it constructs its nest: the eggs, six in
number, are oblong and of a dull green, having a zone of small spots round the centre, of an olive-grey.
Its food, like that of the other species of the genus, consists principally of insects, such as moths, and
coleoptera, to which young or feeble birds are occasionally added.
The beak and legs are black ; a black band passes over the forehead, eyes and ears ; the top of the head,
back and rump of a fine ash ; throat white; breast and sides of a delicate rose-colour ;. wings black, with a
white bar across the quill-feathers ; the middle tail-feathers black, the two outer feathers quite white, the two
next partially white, the succeeding feathers on each side less and less so.
The female differs as little from the male as those of the allied species Hvcudztor, and is only to be distin-
guished by the more obscure rose-colour of the breast, and the black of the plumage having a tinge of brown.
The young of the year of both sexes after the autumn moult are destitute of the black band on the forehead,
which remains grey during the winter, and the plumage of the superior surface is more or less broken with
grey, the under parts being obscure; but after the moult of spring, both sexes gain the band over the fore-
head and ears, the rose-colour of the breast becoming at the same time more lively. Total length eight
inches.
Our figure represents an adult male of the natural size.
Att). Hert Bee F
OF EAL
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ROE cee MERE a Auk soaig aig
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ree ere eee
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*
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Ol adt wta. hand aft tains ayvsa. Hod <a qa to toes ott vette: tad : Stole: gated alin aban
ideas ditedcal idl viom ont siiha off te enimoned 3 wear ody Ls Mholncyiaes aut
ea:
RED-BACKED SHRIKE.
Lamius collurio, (Ze77./
Dra Ary Va dnwe ke on Stone b bef (ope tid Pie 77,7 77 - 5
Lrewm prim Nedare kon Stone ey S&L. bok Lronizdly C Linlinuagnae:
Genus LANIUS.
Grn. Cuar. Beak of moderate length, robust, compressed, straight at the base, curved at the
up; edges of the upper mandible emarginated, and exhibiting a conspicuous tooth.
Nostrils basal, lateral, nearly round, partly covered by a membrane. Gape furnished with
stiff bristles. Feet moderate. Toes free. Acro-tarsia broadly scutellate. Wings somewhat
pointed and rather short; the first quill-feather very short; the third the longest; the rest
gradually decreasing. Taz/ equal, or somewhat rounded.
RED-BACKED SHRIKE.
Lanius Collurio, Lenn.
Le Pie-griéche écorcheur.
Among the Shrikes which periodically visit our island, the Red-backed is the best known and most univer-
sally spread. Its arrival usually occurs from the middle of April to the beginning of May, the exact period
being regulated by the forwardness of the spring, inasmuch as its food consists almost solely of insects, the
appearance of which depends upon the temperature of the season. Though found occasionally in the northern
counties of England, it is by no means so abundant there as in the middle, and more especially the southern
districts. In Scotland it is, we believe, altogether unknown, nor are we aware of its having been discovered in
Ireland. It is partial to downs and open pastures, particularly such as are intersected or bordered by thick
stunted hedges, where it may be commonly met with singly or in pairs, but never in flocks. Like the rest of the
Shrikes, its manners and note are very peculiar, and serve at once to distinguish it from the small birds of
other groups. Its chief food, as we have before observed, consists of insects, such as grasshoppers, beetles,
and the larger kinds of flies, which it often takes on the wing. It may be generally noticed quietly perched
in some commanding situation awaiting the approach of its prey, upon which it darts not unlike a Flycatcher,
generally returning to the same perch. Besides insects, it is known to attack young and feeble birds, mice,
lizards, slugs, &c., which, as is the case with most of its congeners, it impales on a sharp thorn or spike
previously to tearing them to pieces.
Though small in size, the Red-backed Shrike is extremely fierce and courageous, defending itself with great
obstinacy when wounded or assailed. On the Continent it is widely distributed, being spread throughout
every province of Europe, from the south as far as Russia and Sweden ; and we may add that it is also a native
of the North of Africa.
The Red-backed Shrike builds its nest in sharp thorny bushes, often at a considerable distance from the
ground, constructing it of dried grasses and wool, with a lining of hair. The eggs are five or six in number,
of a pinkish white, with spots of wood-brown disposed in zones chiefly at the larger end.
The sexes offer very considerable difference in their colouring ; that of the adult male is as follows :
Top of the head, occiput, upper part of the back, and rump, fine grey; a narrow band of black begins
above the beak, passes round the eye, and spreads over the ear-coverts ; middle of the back and shoulders
fine chestnut; quills brown; two middle tail-feathers black ; the rest white for more than half their basal
length, the extremity being black tipped with white ; throat white ; under surface pale roseate ; bill and tarsi
black.
The female wants the beautiful grey hood and mantle, as also the black streak on the face ; the whole of the
upper plumage is dull reddish brown, with dusky transverse lmes more or less obscure ; a deeper tint of
brown pervades the quills and tail-feathers ; the under surface is white, barred on the sides of the neck, the
chest, and flanks, with fine semilunar lines of brown.
The young males of the year closely resemble the adult female ; in fact, the only difference consists in the
feathers of the back being, in the former, more distinctly margined with transverse lines of brown.
Our Plate represents an adult male, and a young male of the year, of the natural size.
| apttitis Riedie acthok uke Uefa te aes tes Oty
: si‘ athe SSF SV 1) weet Bee Oi} Parr, re - - i Bad
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gem WOODCHAT.
Lamus rufus; (Bos/
& by J & £. Gould,
vd by C Ludlmanded:
WOODCHAT.
Lanius rufus, Briss.
La Pie-griéche rousse.
Axruoucx the Woodchat is abundantly spread over the Continent, particularly the warmer portions, such as
Spain, Italy, and all the countries bordering on the Mediterranean, it is so rare in the British Islands as
scarcely to merit a place in our Fauna; indeed, two or three instances of its having been seen or captured
in England are all that we are acquainted with, and we have ourselves never received it in a recent state. In
general habits and manners it strictly resembles its nearly allied species the Red-backed Shrike, Lanius
Collurio ; but a moment’s comparison will be sufficient to establish the distinctions of the two species. In
one respect, however, the Woodchat appears to be peculiar ; we allude to the circumstance of the nearly
allied style of colouring of the two sexes, which is contrary to what prevails in the Red-backed Shrike, and
agrees more strictly with the rest of the European representatives of the present family. The only point by
which the sexes may be distinguished is the less brilliant colouring of the female.
The food of the Woodchat consists of coleopterous and other large insects, and occasionally small and
nestling birds. According to M. Temminck, it builds its nest in bushes, selecting the fork of a small branch
among foliage sufficiently dense for its concealment. It lays five or six eggs, of a whitish green, irregularly
blotched with grey.
The plumage is as follows: A narrow white band borders the margin of the upper mandible, and is
followed by a black belt across the forehead ; the same colour occupying the ear-coverts passes down the sides
of the neck and the middle of the back, where it fades off into grey; the occiput, back of the neck, and
upper part of the back, rich chestnut ; wings black, the scapularies and a bar across the base of the quills
being white ; upper tail-coverts white, with a tinge of yellow ; tail black, except the outer feather on each
side, which is nearly white, and the next, which is tipped with white, and is white at its base; the third is
also tipped with white ; beak and tarsi black.
In the female the black is tinged with brown, and the chestnut of the back is less vivid.
The Plate represents a male and female of the size of life.
bipbive Gbni beth oe Sihad aie te
ey i oa
race
Sh ie
ee
GOLDEN ORIOLE.
Oriolus Galbula, /Zznw/
Drawn trom Lite & on Stone by Sb L, Gould, Lrnted by C Halimande,
Genus ORIOLUS.
Gen. Cuar. Beak conical, straight, and sharp-pointed, flattened at its base; upper mandible
ridged and slightly notched at the point. Vostrils basal, lateral, naked, and pierced hori-
zontally in a large membrane. eet three toes before and one behind, the external toe
united to the middle one at its base. Tarsus not exceeding the middle toe in length; third
guill-feather the longest.
GOLDEN ORIOLE.
Oriolus galbula, Lenn.
Le Loriot.
Tue genus Oriolus, as restricted by modern authors, comprises a group of birds pre-eminent for their beauty
and the contrast of their colours, rich yellow and deep black dividing the plumage in proportions varying
according to the difference of species ; and there is no genus the members of which are more naturally united
to each other than the present.
The Orioles are strictly confined to the older or longest known portions of the globe ; various species being
respectively disposed over Asia, Africa, the islands of the Indian Archipelago, and the southern and eastern
portions of Europe. Their place in America appears to be supplied by the /céer? and the other genera of the
family of Sturnde.
The Golden Oriole is to be considered as merely an occasional sojourner in England, its visits being but few,
and only during the months of summer. Although undoubtedly scarce, it is by no means the most rare of
those birds which, from their occurrence in England, have been admitted to a place in its Fauna. We are not
aware that there are any instances on record of its breeding in this country: still we have reason to suppose
that such would be the case, if, when it favours any part of our island with its residence, it were permitted
to remain unmolested. In Italy and the whole of the southern provinces of Europe it is very abundant, and
is also far from being uncommon in France, Holland, Germany, and some of the districts of Russia; paying all
those countries an annual visit, for the purpose of incubation. We have received numerous specimens of this
bird from Tripoli and the whole line of the northern coast of Africa, where it is exceedingly common ; and to
which country, or at least its more northern parts, we have reason to suppose it migrates when absent during
the winter months from Europe. We have never received this identical species from India, although there is
one, the O. aureus, which closely approximates to it, but which may at once be distinguished by its rather
smaller size, and by the black line passing through and beyond the eye, while in the European species the
black colour reaches only to the anterior edge of the orbit. We have been informed that this latter species
has also been found in Europe, which is not unlikely, as the border line of the two continents is merely con-
ventional.
The nest of the Golden Oriole, like that of many of the natives of the tropical climates, is a striking
example of ingenuity: it is composed of fibres of hemp or other vegetables ingeniously interwoven together,
lined with fine moss or lichen, and suspended at the extremity of the tallest branches of lofty trees; the eggs
are four or five in number, the ground-colour being a pure white, marked by a few well-defined purple brown,
or black spots. Its food consists of wild berries and fruits, as well as insects and their larvee.
In the male, the beak is brownish red; irides red; general plumage fine king’s yellow, a black streak
intervening between the beak and eye; the wings black with a bar of yellow; all the quill-feathers tipped
with yellowish white; the two middle tail-feathers black ; the rest have their basal half black, and the other
portion yellow ; tarsi lead-colour ; claws black. Length of the bird ten inches.
In the female, the yellow of the upper parts is clouded with an olive tinge, and below with grayish white,
each feather having a longitudinal mark of a darker colour ; the wings are brownish black, and the tail-feathers,
where black in the male, are obscure olive.
_ The young of the year resemble the female, but have the longitudinal markings of the lower parts stronger ;
the irides brown, and beak of a dark gray.
Our Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
ve Tee
. ; gt
|
ih pis win aks a ‘wlliondnnd ea &w
vt any i yt Blue it guile. a br heen Ae WR Ce
fey S Z 5 mee : _. ’ act eat ; of
BLACK-OUZEL OR BLACKBIRD.
Merula vulgaris; (Aay/.
Lr from Noakure & or Si comety SEL, Conbt,
SLrinted by C. udimunde,
Genus MERULA.
Gun. Cuar. Brill nearly as long as the head; straight at the base ; slightly bending towards
the point, which is rather compressed ; the upper mandible emarginated; gape furnished
with a few bristles. Nostrils basal, lateral and oval, partly covered by a naked membrane.
Legs of mean length, muscular. Toes, three before and one behind ; the outer toe joined
at its base to the middle one, which is shorter than the tarsus. C/aws slightly arcuate ;
that of the hind toe the largest. Of the wings, the first quill is short, and the third and
fourth are the longest.
BLACK OUZEL, or BLACKBIRD.
Merula vulgaris, Ray.
Le merle noir.
Tuis familiar species is very generally distributed over Europe ; and although it is stationary with us through-
out the year, yet in some parts of the Continent it is a bird of passage; and we may add, that on the approach
of severe winters the number in our own island is greatly augmented by temporary visiters from the North.
When we consider the style of colouring, form, and habits of this bird, with those of the Ring Ouzel and
some other European species, we cannot but agree with our countryman Ray in considering them fully
entitled to rank as a genus distinct and separate from that of Zurdus, with which Linneus and his followers
blended them.
In their habits these birds are more terrestrial than the true Thrushes, frequenting secluded copses, hedge-
rows and ravines, as well as gardens and shrubberies, skulking about under the bushes, and retiring from obser-
vation with great celerity. Towards evening they may often be seen extremely restless and clamorous, uttering
a shrill chatter as they dart from bush to bush in chase of each other before retiring to rest. It is more
solitary in its habits than the Thrush, there seldom being more than two or three in the same immediate
locality. There is also a slight degree of difference in the general construction of the nest, the colour of the
eggs, and the situations chosen for the purpose of nidification, to which we may add the marked difference in
colouring between the male and the female.
The song of the Blackbird, though not so melodious as that of the Thrush, is a clear bold strain, which,
when heard in the calm mornings and evenings of spring, is very delightful, and renders the bird a general
favourite. In its food the Blackbird is perfectly omnivorous, accommodating itself to such as the season
offers : in winter it lives on berries, worms, and shelled snails, which it seeks for under hedgerows and other
hiding-places ; in summer, on worms, insects and their larvae, as well as all kinds of fruits that the garden and
hedgerow afford.
The Blackbird appears to be strictly confined to Europe, but its form is represented in the Himalaya
mountains by an interesting and nearly allied species the Zurdus pecilopterus, and in the tropical regions of
America by two or three other species.
It is an early breeder, often commencing the work of nidification in the months of February and March,
building its nest in thick secluded bushes, laurels, ivy, or any densely leaved covert: the nest is constructed
externally of moss, small twigs, and fibres plastered with mud, internally of fine dry grass: the eggs are usually
five in number, of a blueish green blotched with reddish brown.
The young of both sexes greatly resemble the female, but are generally more spotted.
The male, with the exception of the bill and the orbits of the eyes, which are of a beautiful orange, is
entirely of a jet black.
The female is of a deep umber brown inclining to black ; the chest, belly and thighs, varied with dashes of
a darker colour.
The Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
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RING OUZEL.
Merula torquata, (Zv7/s.)
y
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anne,
iS
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RING OUZEL.
Merula torquata, Briss.
Le Merle a Plastron blanc.
‘« Tux periodical visits of this bird to our coast,” says Mr. Selby, “‘ are contrary to the others of the genus
that migrate, viz. the Fieldfare, the Redwing, and the Common Thrush, as it arrives in spring, and immediately
resorts to the mountainous districts of England and Scotland, preferring those that are the most stony and
Although it doubtless always breeds in the situations above described, it may not unfrequently be
seen traversing the hedgerows of cultivated lands during its passage to and from distant climates.
In general form and appearance it strictly resembles the Blackbird, but in its manners it is much more shy
and distrustful, rarely admitting itself to be approached. Unlike that bird, it is not observed skulking among
bushes, &c., but affects more open situations, which doubtless renders it habitually cautious, as being more
b
barren.’
necessary to its safety. Its voice is somewhat harsh and powerful, consisting of a few notes, which, according
to Mr. Selby, are not unlike those of the Missel Thrush. On the Continent it is distributed through most of
the northern countries, and is very common in Sweden, France, and Germany ; indeed, with the exception
of Holland, it is universally distributed throughout Europe, as well as the adjacent parts of Asia and Africa.
Tn all these countries it is said to be migratory; and we may easily conceive the cause of this to be the
failure of a supply of food in the peculiar situations it frequents, and the consequent necessity of retiring to
a more genial climate, where berries, fruits, and insects may be easily obtained.
The male differs from the female in the greater purity and contrast of his colours. The general plumage
is black, each feather having a margin of grey; a broad gorget of pure white extends across the chest; the
bill is blackish brown at the tip, and yellow at the base ; legs blackish.
The plumage of the female is more clouded with brownish grey, the pectoral gorget being less extensive
and tinged with dusky brown.
The young males closely resemble the adult female, but in young females the gorget is scarcely perceptible.
The Plate represents an adult bird of each sex of the natural size.
AU Re
ty
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hana
ih Be th
k ‘ Mi r mo ,
Drom: trom Natarod on Stone by TE&E Gould.
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MIGRATORY OUZEL.
Merula migratoria; /<Svacns./
Brnisedl by CHalimarcied
_—
MIGRATORY OUZEL.
Merula migratoria, Swazns.
Le Merle erratique.
Txus beautiful species of Thrush, if not the theme of poets, has nevertheless called forth many spirited and
flowing descriptions, the most animated of which are to be found in the works of Wilson, Audubon, and
Dr. Richardson. From the latter author we find that few of the feathered race seek a more northern region for
the purpose of breeding than the Migratory Ouzel. “It arrives in the Missouri (in lat. 413°), from the east-
ward, on the 11th of April; and in the course of its northerly movement, reaches Severn River, in Hudson’s
Bay, about a fortnight later. Its first appearance at Carlton House, in lat. 53°, in the year 1827, was on the
22nd of April. In the same season it reached Fort Chepewyan, in lat. 582°, on the 7th of May, and Fort
Franklin, in lat 65°, on the 20th of that month. Those that build their nests in the fifty-fourth parallel of
latitude, begin to hatch in the end of May; but eleven degrees further to the north, that event is deferred till
the 11th of June. The snow even then partially covers the ground; but there is, in those high latitudes,
abundance of the berries of the Vaccinium uliginosum and Vitis idea, Arbutus alpina, Empetrum nigrum, and
of some other plants, which after having been frozen up all the winter, are exposed, on the first melting of
the snow, full of juice and in high flavour. Shortly afterwards, when the callow young require food, the
parents obtain abundance of grubs.”
_ When we take into consideration the migratory habits of this bird, and the extreme high northern latitudes
it affects, the fact of its occasionally occurring in Europe is not so startling as it would otherwise appear: a
single glance at a globe will in fact make it plain to our readers, that when migrating from these high lati-
tudes, a slight deviation from its regular course would carry it on to the continent of Europe, where, as we
have before stated, it is occasionally seen. In the third part of his ‘ Manuel’ M. Temminck states that it has
been killed in Germany; and M. Brehm informs us that it has been seen in the neighbourhood of Vienna.
In its affinities we are inclined to consider this bird as a true Merula, or as belonging to that section of the
Merulde which includes the Common Blackbird, and we also find that its habits, manners, song, and
nidification are much infaccordance with those of that bird. ‘So much,” says M. Audubon, ‘ do certain
notes of the Robin (the American name for the Merula migratoria) resemble those of the European Black-
bird, that frequently while in England the cry of the latter, as it flew hurriedly off from a hedge-row,
reminded me of that of the former when similarly surprised, and while in America the Robin of that country
has in the same manner recalled to my recollection the Blackbird of England.”
The sexes are alike in plumage, but the tints of the female are somewhat paler, and she is also smaller in
size.
Head and sides of the face deep sooty black; round the eye a circle of white; all the upper surface fuli-
ginous grey tinged with brown on the shoulders ; wings and tail blackish brown externally edged with grey ;
two outer tail-feathers tipped with white; chin white spotted with brownish black ; breast and under surface
reddish orange, each feather delicately fringed with grey ; vent and under tail-coverts mingled white and grey ;
bill yellow; irides hazel ; feet pale brown.
We have figured an adult of the natural size.
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BLACK-THROATED THRUSH.
Turdus atrogulans; (Zm-/
Printed by C Ealimandel,
tn
rom Nakare be on Stone ty Je Ca
Dron
BLACK-THROATED THRUSH.
Turdus atrogularis, Temm.
La Merle a gorge noire.
Tuis fine bird is one of the ornithological rarities of the Fauna of Europe : it is, however, a species of common
occurrence in the Himalaya mountains, whence we have received numerous examples, differing in no respect
from those taken in Europe. Although M. Temminck states that it is a native of Hungary and Russia but
rare in Austria and Silesia, we have only seen two native-killed specimens, which are in the collection at
Vienna, and one of them was, we believe, killed in the neighbourhood of that city : young birds are also said
to have been taken in Germany. From the circumstance of most collections from the Himalaya mountains
containing examples of this bird, the fact is clearly established that the northern and higher regions of Asia
constitute its native habitat. Our knowledge of this species is so limited that we are unable to state with
certainty whether the black gorget is characteristic of the summer plumage, or whether when once acquired
it is permanent: we suspect the latter to be the case, as we have received specimens in various stages of
plumage, some of which were totally devoid of the black throat, while others had it partially developed ; in
all probability these last were females or immature birds.
The whole of the upper surface is brown with a slight tinge of red, the outer edges of the wing-feathers
being somewhat lighter ; throat and chest dull black, each feather being slightly margined with white ; belly
white ; under tail-coverts rufous brown ; bill dark at the point and yellow at the base; feet brown.
The Plate represents a male and a young male or the female of the natural size.
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FIELDFARE.
: Turdus puaris, (Lint)
Hi Jee ne Nedved om Stone by 4 aL, Contd, : Lurid ly C Lhidlmandes
FIELDFARE.
Turdus pilaris, Lenn.
Le Merle litorne.
Tue Feldfare is only a winter visitant of the British Islands and the temperate parts of Europe, arriving in
autumn and departing northwards in the spring, its native habitat being the regions adjacent to the arctic
circle, such as Sweden, Lapland, the Northern parts of Russia, Norway, &c., where, according to Mr. Hewit-
son of Newcastle, it is very abundant. From this gentleman’s interesting and very valuable work on the eggs
of British Birds, we have made the following extract : ‘We were soon delighted by the discovery of several
of their nests, and were surprised to find them, so contrary to the habits of other species of the genus with
which we are acquainted, breeding in society. Their nests were at various heights from the ground, from four
feet to thirty or forty feet or upwards, mixed with old nests of the preceding year. They were, for the most
part, placed against the trunk of the spruce fir; some were, however, at a considerable distance from it, upon
the upper surface and towards the smaller end of the thicker branches. They resemble most nearly those of
the Ring Ouzel: the outside is composed of sticks, and coarse grass and weeds gathered wet, matted together
with a small quantity of clay, and lined with a thick bed of fine dry grass. The eggs are five and sometimes
six in number, very like those of the Blackbird and Ring. Ouzel. The Fieldfare is the most abundant bird in
Norway, building as above described in society, two hundred nests or more being frequently found within a
very small space.”
After the breeding season is past, and when the severities of winter set in over those northern regions, vast
flocks congregate together and pass gradually southwards till they find a locality affording the necessary means
of subsistence ; hence, in our locality they spread themselves over fields and pasture lands in search of
worms, grubs, and insects, retreating to thick hedges, where various berries supply them food, when the
snow precludes their other means of support. Unlike the Song Thrush they are shy and wary, not allow-
ing themselves to be approached, but taking wing and wheeling off in a body to some distant spot. This shy-
ness of disposition, together with the harshness of their note, assimilates them strongly to the Missel Thrush,
which in fact they closely resemble, except in their gregarious habits.
The sexual differences in the Fieldfare are so trifling as to be scarcely perceptible; indeed, it requires
anatomical examination to ascertain the distinction.
The Fieldfare generally leaves us in March or April, and, as far as we know, there are no instances of their
having bred in our island. Their powers of song are very moderate, and their common call note very like
that. of: the Shrikes.
Their flesh is by many held in considerable esteem, and hence they are often eagerly pursued by the gunner,
a circumstance which, if we mistake not, conduces much to their timid and suspicious habits.
In size, the Fieldfare is next to the Missel Thrush, but possesses a style of colouring peculiar to itself. The
head, lower part of the neck and rump cinereous grey; the top of the back and wing-coverts chestnut brown ;
space between the beak and the eye black; a greyish white streak passes above the eyes ; the throat and
breast light rufous brown, with lanceolate black spots ; the feathers of the flanks are blotched with black and
bordered with white ; the abdomen pure white ; tail black, the outer feathers being inclined to grey ; bill
bright orange, with a black tip; tarsi black.
The Plate represents an adult bird of the natural size.
an pug ee ee ie Lr al Seis oli wii
f "i Be Zi ; : pee thet : : a ne ae ae P
ae pee eg? re 4 ae Eh ~ nee oI oo ae sa | i CAPE he fs Dt 30
: 7 + ey t bdah TUR erie at Lae) th pet (a: weet al ARE at ig tani tei 4 iqtiel te 8 elie: ae oihtset si
- aus 1 alt it abr loay: quekt eae tet Pears wglaaity arg
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7 ‘ PURI Hae RE d a a
- “ i} tints | rao at Bik i, af’ iff es
been 'f “otal aretha. esenne Herth | Rae iy Hie! 8
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‘ ‘ re it’ 14 ne Sheet Wade st eTaity hows obi : add :: atiden
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MISSEL THRUSH.
Turdus viscivorus. (Len/.
Drawn trom lige and on Stone ty LE, Cauda, . Lrintad by C Hulimanied.
Genus TURDUS. Auct.
Gen. Cuar. Beak moderate, emarginated, compressed and arched at its point. Upper
mandible slightly notched. Gape furnished with a few bristles. Nostrils basal, lateral,
oval, partly closed by a naked membrane. Evternal toe joined at its base to the middle one,
which is shorter than the tarsus. First gwll-feather very short ; third or fourth the longest.
MISSEL THRUSH.
Turdus viscivorus, Lenn.
La Draine.
Tuts bird has derived its appellation from the alleged circumstance of its feeding upon the berries of
the Misseltoe ; and we place it at the head of the genus as being the largest, and exhibiting the generic
characters in the greatest perfection. Of all the Thrushes, the present species is the most extensively spread
over the older continent, being not only found in Europe, but also in that altitude of the Himalaya Mountains
and the high lands of Asia which afford a temperature similar to our own. Thinly dispersed over the British
Isles, the Missel Thrush is a solitary and unsocial bird, differing considerably in its habits from the common
favourite, which delights to dwell within the cultivated precincts of our shrubberies and gardens. Affecting
remote situations, it retires from the haunts of human society to pasture lands, wide commons or meadows
skirted by orchards or groves, feeding, like its generic companions, on snails, worms and the larve of insects,
during the months of spring and summer, but resorts to berries, especially those of the mountain ash, the
haw, and, according to authors, the misseltoe, when autumn and winter deprive it of more esteemed fare.
It is one of our earliest breeders, the commencement of March being the season of incubation ; the place of
nidification being sometimes orchard trees, at others those of more lofty growth, such as the elm or oak; and
the nest, with a view to its concealment, is artfully placed either close against the stem or in a fork of one of
the larger branches, being composed on the outside of coarse lichen, gray moss, or such dried vegetables as
are found on the spot and accord with the colour of the tree: the materials are carelessly interwoven. Within
this outside covering is a layer of mud neatly lined with fine grasses ; the female laying five eggs of a pale
blueish white spotted with dull red.
As this bird is one of our earliest breeders, so also may the note of the male be heard the earliest in the
spring, while, perched at the top of some tall tree, he serenades his mate with loud discordant sounds, which
consist of monotonous unpleasant notes, repeated by the hour together. The Missel Thrush is very pugna-
cious during the breeding season, attacking all birds indiscriminately should they intrude within a certain
distance of his nest. After this period we have seen the Missel Thrush collected in small companies, but
never in such congregated numbers as the migratory species of the genus.
The male and female differ from each other so little in size and colour, that one description will serve for
both: the young, however, have their feathers edged with a darker colour, which soon disappears, when the
plumage assumes the adult colouring.
The weight of the Missel Thrush is near five ounces ; its total length eleven inches.
The whole of the upper surface is of an ashy brown ; between the beak and eye the feathers are grayish
white. The under-surface is white, more or less tinged with yellowish red varied with barb-shaped brown
spots, which become more oval on the lower parts ; wing-coverts edged and tipped with white; the three
outer tail-feathers ending in a lighter colour ; beak and legs yellowish white, the former the darkest.
The annexed Plate represents an adult male in its spring plumage.
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demvink cfnaiend dinea ebay rf veut a sive fsakalh
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+ deivese 248 veodiag sift o7e One Ad it aoeeded 5 one wen we te uf sont Tae rae nit. ated aH
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: 4 TL re ide? Dani fiat Dorolioe ahraroi-sitie’ sari? naGl ad) wa feta ras sentient eee
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SONG THRUSH.
1L.Turdus musicus; /Leunmw./
Drown from Life b on Stone by Tbe Le. Gould.
y .
REDWING.
2. Turdus [hacus; /“Zenn-/
Lune ty CBdimandel,
SONG THRUSH.
Turdus musicus, Linn.
La Merle grive.
Tuus universal favourite appears to inhabit every country in Europe, which may be considered its true habitat.
It may be taken as a typical example of the true Thrushes, which, as a tribe, are numerously dispersed over a
great portion of the globe: the temperate countries of America afford us several examples of this particular
form ; both Asia and Africa as well as the Indian Islands having also their melodious Thrush. It is very generally
dispersed over the wooded districts of the British Islands, and is particularly partial to shrubberies and thick
hedge-rows. It is by no means fearful or suspicious of man, confidently venturing within the precincts ot
gardens and orchards, where its bold, varied and energetic song secures it good-will and protection. It builds
its nest early in the spring a few feet from the ground, in any tree or shrub within the immediate vicinity of
its haunt. Its nest is outwardly constructed of coarse moss intermingled with dead leaves and grasses ; the
inside is neatly covered with a composition of cow-dung, light vegetable mould, and clay ; and without any other
lining the female deposits her eggs, which are usually four or five in number, of a beautiful blue colour spotted
with black.
The habits of the Song Thrush differ materially from those of the Redwing and Fieldfare. It is not
gregarious ; and although numbers annually arrive here from more northern countries, they scatter themselves
singly over the fields and thickets in search of that food which the season affords. As the severities of winter
approach, numbers appear to continue their migrations still further south; but it rarely occurs that our
island is left entirely destitute.
The young at an early age assume the markings and general appearance of the parent birds: the difference
in plumage which the sexes present is so trifling as to be scarcely distinguishable.
Their food consists of worms, insects, snails (more especially the Heliv nemorahs), and fruits.
The head and upper parts are of a brownish olive; sides of the neck and breast of a pale yellow, the latter
varied with arrow-shaped spots of rich brown; centre of the belly white ; under wing-coverts pale reddish-
orange, but neither so deep or decided in colour as in the Redwing ; base of the bill and legs light brown ;
tip of the bill inclining to black.
Our Plate represents an adult bird in mature plumage.
REDWING.
Turdus Iliacus, Linn.
La Merle mauvis.
Tuus bird is strictly a migratory species ; for although it frequently remains with us for the greater part of the
year, viz. from October till May or June, it invariably retires to the pine forests of Norway and Lapland for
the purpose of breeding. It is rather inferior in size to the Thrush, and unlike that bird is gregarious, visiting
us in the autumn in flocks of considerable numbers, and when the weather is mild frequenting pasture lands,
feeding on insects, worms, &c. On the approach of frost, it subsists on the berries of the white thorn,
mountain-ash, and ivy, the last of which it is very partial to, particularly in the spring. We have seen this
plant in the month of May, entirely stript of its fruit by the Redwing. We have often known this bird perish
from starvation when the winter has set in early and severe, in which case they subsist as long as there are
any berries remaining on the trees before named ; but when this resource fails, they have not strength to
proceed further south, and inevitably perish.
The habits of the Redwing are much more shy and suspicious than those of the Thrush. It evinces a great
partiality for tall trees and woods, and never lives in low hedges and bushes like the Thrush. Its song is
sunilar to that of the Thrush, with the exception of being less powerful ; it often sings sweetly before it leaves
us for its more congenial and favourite breediug places.
Head and whole of the upper surface olive brown; the space between the bill and the eye dark brown,
intermingled with yellow ; a streak of yellowish white extends over the eye; sides of the neck and flanks
white with obscure blotches of brown ; belly pure white ; under wing-coverts reddish orange ; legs light brown ;
the sexes present no external differences.
We have figured an adult male of its natural size.
aah 2 Pei sa Dae ‘nites E vt ae how! nieies iad hat boat w Deuce
eee te ae Hauvigedts qhinyeqaine 345 oli a ah donee
Tatu SHeTiag ate Ya palpi laTeron atl Mot aot, » ithe +
; AR
‘ oe * ; a ee ae
eth yee Hie DE tobe? eromhoPins enti ofa gt iihraborsrdgss. niin Th
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NAUMAN'’S THRUSH.
Turdus Naumannu,/wm/
Lravinyron Nature & on Sune ty S&L. Gonld. Lrnted ty C iallmandel.
NAUMANN’S THRUSH.
Turdus Naumann, Temm.
Le Merle Naumann.
So directly intermediate is this bird between the Fieldfare and Redwing, that had we not seen numerous
examples we should have been inclined to consider it either an accidental variety or a hybrid produced
between these two well-known birds. Although it does not occur in Europe so frequently as is mentioned by
M. Temminck, still we have seen it in Continental collections; one in particular we recollect to have observed
in the Museum at Munich, which was killed near that city: it appeared to he fully adult, and was in beautiful
preservation. From the little information we could obtain respecting it, we can state with certainty that it is
a species of the greatest rarity, visiting only the eastern portions of the Continent alone, and at very indefinite
periods. It is strange that we have never observed a single specimen among the vast collections which have
been sent home from India during the last few years, although that country directly intervenes between the
eastern portions of Europe and Japan, where it is abundant. Two fine examples collected in the latter country
have been transmitted to us by our valued friend M. Temminck ; these specimens offer little or no difference
from the bird in the Munich Museum, of which our Plate is an accurate representation.
Of its habits and nidification nothing is known ; but in its general economy, food, &c., it doubtless resembles
the other members of the group.
The sexes are scarcely distinguishable by their plumage; the female, like those of the Fieldfare and Red-
wing, being only somewhat smaller in size, and rather less bright and decided in her markings.
Top of the head, ear-coverts, and upper surface deep brown, each feather being edged with reddish, which
red tint becomes more conspicuous on the rump, scapularies, and secondaries ; a stripe of pale buff passes
from the base of the bill over the eye; throat and upper part of the breast very pale buff; the sides of the
neck ornamented with fine arrow-shaped markings of brown; chest and flanks dark brown, each feather
broadly bordered with greyish white; belly white; under tail-coverts buff; tail and primaries dark brown,
the outer edges of the tail-feathers tinged with reddish ; feet light brown ; bill light brown at the base, passing
into dark brown at the tip.
The Plate represents a male of the natural size.
titted Wenhaeny
ti ibs 7a i ohh
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PALLIDM THRUS H.
Turdus. palhdus ; (7d /
Lramyrom ANd: 01 Stone oy JEL, Cond.
PALLID THRUSH.
. Turdus pallidus, Pail.
Le Merle blafard.
Tue claim of this bird to a place in the Fauna of Europe, says M. Temminck, (from whom we received
the specimen from which our figure was taken,) is based on the capture of three individuals, one of which was
taken in September 1823, near Herzberg in Saxony. It is one of the many discoveries made by Pallas, whose
merits as a naturalist are too well known to require our praise.
Like the Turdus Stbericus this bird is extremely common in Japan, whence, through the kindness of
M. Temminck, we have received several examples: it is also spread over the whole of Siberia, and occasionally
passes the boundary line and visits the centre of Europe.
Of its habits, manners, and nidification nothing is known, but in these respects it doubtless closely resem-
bles the other members of the genus.
The whole of the upper surface is of an olive brown; ear-coverts brown with a faint line of white down the
centre of each feather; tips of the wing-coverts yellowish, forming a band across the wing; sides of the
throat pale reddish brown blotched with white; chest and flanks pale reddish brown, the former ornamented
with numerous spots of a darker tint; throat, centre of the abdomen, and under tail-coverts white; two
outer tail-feathers largely tipped with whitish on their inner web; bill and feet light brown.
We possess other specimens in which the spots on the breast are wanting, and the white of the throat and
abdomen is less pure; but whether this difference is occasioned by sex or age we are unable to determine.
We have figured the bird in both states of the natural size.
b
t: tee LiL
1k AfOC ay CT
P entiohda
Lewam from Nacarekon §
2
ONOY,
WHITE'S THRUSH.
Turdus Whiter; (Zyéon./
———
WHITE’S THRUSH.
Turdus Whitei, Eyton.
Le Merle de White.
Turex specimens of this rare bird having been killed in Europe, two on the banks of the Elbe near Hamburgh,
and a third which was shot by Lord Malmesbury at Heron Court in Hampshire, in January, 1828, we have
deemed it necessary to include a figure of it in the present work. ©
While at Hamburgh we were fortunate enough to obtain one of the specimens taken there, from the person
who had it, in a fresh state ; this specimen now forms a part of the collection of T. B. L. Baker, Esq., of
Hardwicke Court, Gloucester, who doubtless values it as one of the greatest rarities of his collection.
Although we have placed this bird in the genus which comprehends the true Thrushes (the type of which is
the Zurdus musicus, Linn.), still we doubt not that this bird, with the Zurdus varius of Dr. Horsfield and
another from New South Wales, will be found to constitute a well-marked and distinct group among the
Merulide. ¥rom the greater length of their wings, we are led to believe that these birds possess very consi-
derable powers of flight, and that in all probability they are strictly migratory in their habits. When com-
pared with the true Thrushes a considerable difference may be observed in the form and length of the tail,
and also in the tarsi and toes.
In its general size the Zurdus White: exceeds by almost a fifth the Zurdus varius, while the bill is much
smaller: the length of the wing in Mr. Baker’s specimen of Turdus Whitei is six inches and three quarters,
while that of the Zwrdus varius and of the species from New South Wales scarcely exceeds five inches and a
half. The great difference in size and the smaller bill will be sufficient to establish the specific value of this
fine bird, which has with much propriety been dedicated to the celebrated and kind-hearted White, whose
work on the Natural History of Selborne is not only fraught with instruction, but has given a decided impetus
to the study of this branch of knowledge in this country. This species is very common in Japan, and is in
all probability dispersed over a great part of Southern Siberia.
Crown of the head, back of the neck, back, rump, and upper tail-coverts light yellowish brown, each
feather tipped with a crescent-shaped mark of blackish brown ; wing-coverts and tertiaries dark brown tipped
with buffy brown; spurious wing dark blackish brown, crossed in the middle by a band of buff; primaries
dark brown on their inner webs, and buffy brown on the outer; four central and two outer tail-feathers pale
brown, the latter tipped with whitish; the remainder blackish brown; throat, centre of the abdomen, and
under tail-coverts white; the remainder of the under surface pale buff, each feather passing into deep buff
near the tip and terminating in a crescent of blackish brown ; bill and feet light brown.
Our figure is of the natural size.
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Dream fram Nuatoveks on Stone by Jk B. Goad,
SIBERIAN THRUSH.
Turdus Sibencus, (Aad/:/
Printed by C Hedimamded.
SIBERIAN THRUSH.
Turdus Sibericus, Pall.
"¢>;, Le Merle a sourcils blancs.
-.
Tuts fine and rare Thrush was first described by Pallas as an inhabitant of Siberia, but on referring to the
works of this author, his account of this species is so meagre that no information whatever is given relative
to its habits and manners, except that, like the other members of the genus, it possesses considerable powers
of song.
Were we more intimately acquainted with its economy, we doubt not that it would be found to differ in
some slight degree from that of the common species, as from the peculiar silkiness and dark colouring of its
plumage, together with its shorter tail, we cannot fail to observe a considerable difference in their form ; and
in all probability the Tidus Sibericus will prove to be the intermediate form connecting the members of the
genus Petrocincla with the true Thrushes, especially if, on investigation, it should be ascertained that the
bird evinces a partiality for rocky situations.
From Siberia, where it inhabits the wooded mountains, it has been known occasionally to stray into Russia
and the Crimea, and hence it becomes necessary to add it to the list of European birds. Besides these loca-
lities we can also state that it is a very common bird in Japan.
The female may be readily distinguished from the male by having a lighter-coloured head and neck, which,
with the whole of the under-surface, is spotted much after the manner of the typical members of the genus
Turdus.
The specimens from which our figures are taken were kindly forwarded to us by M. Temminck, and may
be thus described :
Male: forehead, crown of the head, and nape deep black; over each eye a broad stripe of white; all the
remainder of the plumage brownish black, each feather edged with slaty grey ; bill and feet brown.
Female: forehead, crown of the head, and nape deep brown; chin and throat pale buff; sides of the face
and neck and all the under surface slaty grey irregularly spotted with buffy white; tips of the feathers on the
centre of the abdomen, vent, and under tail-coverts tipped with dull white ; primaries and secondaries brown ;
the remainder of the plumage as in the male but lighter.
We have figured an adult male and female of the natural size.
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Genus CINCLUS.
Gen. Cuar. Beak slender, slightly bent upwards, compressed, cutting edges bending inwards ;
upper mandible notched at the tip. Nostrils at the sides of the base, naked, cleft length-
wise, partly covered by a membrane. Legs short ; toes three before, one behind, the outer
toe joined at its base to the middle one. Wings short ; the first quill not half the length of
the second, which is also shorter than the third and fourth.
WATER OUZEL.
Cinclus aquaticus, Bechst.
Le Cincle plongeur.
Tue genus Cinclus, as far as our knowledge at present extends, is very limited, including only three species,
of which one is a native of the Himalayan mountains, another of Mexico, and the third (the subject now
under consideration, ) is peculiar, we believe, to Europe, where it is dispersed among the mountainous districts
of the Continent and also of our own island.
The lonely, secluded, and indeed local situations in which this bird resides, have prevented our becoming
familiar with its habits and manners, which, from their extraordinary and novel character, merit a more
strict attention than they have hitherto received. We here allude to the power which the Water Ouzel
possesses of diving and remaining submersed beneath the water while in search of food,—habits which,
though they have generally attracted the notice of naturalists, have not received that close and philosophical
scrutiny which the subject deserves; and we would recommend, to those who have the opportunity, a close
study of this bird in a state of nature ; for, however unqualified it may appear to be for such habits, it is
undoubtedly capable of descending to the bottom of streams and rivers, for the purpose of prosecuting its
search after insects and larvae which are the inhabitants of the stony bottoms of mountain streams.
As far as the fact of its submersion goes, we have ourselves many times witnessed it; but have never been
able to mark unobserved the actions of the bird under water, so as to say whether it is by a powerful effort
that it keeps itself submersed, or whether it is completely at its ease as some have asserted.
The Water Ouzel is a spirited and restless little bird, full of life and activity, flitting from stone to stone
along the borders of streams ; and it is especially fond of perching upon any rock that happens to be elevated
in the centre of the current, where, conspicuous by its white breast, it may be observed dipping its head and
jerking its tail in a manner not unlike that of the Wren, at one moment pouring forth a lively twittering song,
(and that even in the depth of winter, when the earth is covered with snow, ) and at the next diving down, and
rising again at a considerable distance. When so disposed, its flight is straight, low and rapid,—in fact, much
like the Kingfisher, and it is equally solitary in its habits. It is, however, seldom found in the same situations
as the Kingfisher, the latter being a frequenter of streams which flow through a fertile country, while the
Water Ouzel is peculiar to the rapid and limpid streams which descend the mountain sides, and run through
glens at their base.
This interesting little bird builds its nest in the fissures of the rough stones and ridges which are common
in such localities, and among the large loose stones of the margin. The nest is ably constructed of the various
mosses and grasses nearest to hand, and covered with a dome, like that of the Wren: the eggs are from five
to seven in number, of a pure and delicate white. The birds having arrived at maturity, neither undergo any
peculiar changes in the plumage, nor exhibit external sexual differences. The young, however, are more
brown on the upper surface, and the white extends over the whole of the abdomen, interrupted by little
markings of brown, which become darker as they proceed.
In our islands we must look for the Water Ouzel in Wales (where we had the pleasure of obtaining the
individuals from which the figures in the accompanying Plate were taken), Derbyshire, Yorkshire, and all the
northern hilly counties. On the Continent it is extensively spread among the alpine and mountainous districts
from Russia to Italy.
The upper surface is of a strong blackish brown, each feather having its outer edge black ; the throat and
chest are pure white ; the abdomen rufous ; the beak black ; irides hazel.
Our Plate represents an adult, and a young bird of the year, of the natural size.
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BLACK: BELLIED WATER OUALI .
Cinclus melanogaster; / 7w/
Drawn fro rited by C Hullmoanded,
ured: om Stone by TLE. Could,
BLACK-BELLIED WATER OUZEL.
Cinclus melanogaster, Brehm.
La Cincle a ventre noir.
A specimen of M. Brehm’s Cinclus melanogaster having been transmitted to us by M. Temminck, we have
ventured to give a figure of it, although we agree with the latter gentleman in questioning its specific value ;
it therefore remains for a future knowledge of its habits and manners to decide whether it may be considered
as distinct, or only a variety dependent upon difference of climate and locality. In its general size and
relative admeasurements it is rather less than the common species (Cinclus aquaticus), and is of a deeper
colour both on the upper and under surfaces. According to M. Brehm it inhabits the north-eastern parts of
the Continent, visiting in very severe winters the coasts of the Baltic, and is neither shy in its habits nor
distrustful of the presence of man.
Its food consists of insects and their larvee.
The head, back of the neck, and all the under surface deep chocolate black ; the feathers of the back dark
grey in the centre, with broad black edgings; wings and tail black ; throat and chest white; feet dark brown ;
bill blackish brown.
We have figured an adult of the natural size.
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PALIAS’S WATER OUAKIL.
Cinclus Pallasu; (Zéz20/
LDrawnfrom Natare & on Stone by S&L Could. Lronted bu C Hallmvande
PALLAS’S WATER OUZEL.
Cinclus Pallasu, Term.
La Cincle de Pallas.
In the third part of his ‘ Manuel d’Ornithologie,’ we find M. Temminck has included this rare species of
Water Ouzel as an occasional visitant to the eastern confines of Europe, more particularly the Crimea and
those portions of European Russia contiguous to the Asiatic continent. In our ‘Century of Birds from the
Himalaya Mountains’ will be found a figure of this species as an inhabitant of the glenny streams of that fine
country. Since the publication of that work we have received specimens of the young, as well as additional
examples of the adult, and our present Plate is consequently rendered more complete and of greater interest
by containing a representation of the bird in its young state, which on comparison will be found to possess a
plumage very similar to that of the common species (Cinelus aquaticus). In the specimen from which our
figure was taken, and which had nearly attained its full size, there was not the slightest trace of the chocolate
colouring which characterizes the adult; in all probability therefore the change is effected by a total loss of
the feathers early in the following spring, or at the second moult.
M. Temminck has favoured us with specimens of the Japan Water Ouzel, which differ so slightly from
those killed in India as not, in our opinion, to admit of their being separated ; it may be observed, however,
that the Japan specimens are rather darker in colour, and that this difference is even perceptible in the
young of the two species. .
Whether the Cinclus Pallasu offers any material difference in its habits and manners from those of the
British Water Ouzel we are unable to state, but in all probability they are very similar.
The adult is of an uniform chocolate brown, with the feet and bill black.
The young has the whole of the plumage of a fuliginous grey with numerous crescent-shaped markings of
pale greyish white, which are most numerous on the throat, giving it a whitish appearance; feet and bill
black.
We have figured an adult and a young bird of the natural size.
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UV TVOMNLUVY
ROCK THRUSH.
Petrocmela saxatilis, / Vig/.
LFrinted by ©. Ludomandeh:
Genus PETROCINCLA.
Gren. Cuar. Beak stout, straight, the ridge arched at the point. Nostri/s basal, round, partly
covered with hairs. Wings of middle length; the first guéd/-feather very short, or almost
spurious, the third the longest, the second a little shorter. Feet moderate, somewhat
strong; the acrotarst and paratars: perfect. Tazl equal.
Type of the genus, Turdus saxatilis, Linn.
ROCK THRUSH.
Petrocincla saxatilis, Vegors.
Le Merle de Roche.
Tue Rock Thrushes, of which the present may be taken as a good example, differ so much from the more
typical birds of the family, in form as well as in habits, manners and the localities they frequent, as to justify
their being raised to the rank of a genus. This was hinted at by M. Temminck, who formed them into
a section, which section has been subsequently established as a genus by Mr. Vigors, under the name of
Petrocincla.
These birds, instead of dwelling in groves and woods,—a circumstance which so peculiarly characterizes
the Thrushes in general,—affect the rugged and inaccessible declivities of rocks and mountains, for which
their form is adapted ; the shortness of their tails and the length of tarsi indicating them to be among those
birds which live more exclusively on the open ground. In many respects they manifest a relationship to the
Saaicole, between which and the rest of the Merulhde they seem to constitute a link of union, forming also
a close alliance with various groups of ground Thrushes from other portions of the globe.
The present species is an inhabitant of the central and eastern portions of Europe, confining itself almost
exclusively to the rocky and mountainous districts, especially the Alps, the Apennines, the Pyrenees, and
some of the higher mountains in France. In such situations it incubates, constructing a nest of moss and
herbage in clefts of the rock, among masses of loose stones, or in old ruins, laying four eggs of a pure greenish
blue. M. Cuvier, in the short notice he gives of this bird in his Régne Animal, states that the male is distin-
guished by its beautiful song ; but into any minute details respecting its manners and peculiarities, we do not
profess ourselves able to enter, and it is a matter of regret, that those who have had so many opportunities
of becoming acquainted with its habits, &c., in its native haunts, should have given us such meagre accounts
respecting them.
The examples which have come into our hands prove it to be a species that undergoes several remarkable
changes of plumage, which we cannot better explain than by availing ourselves, in our text, of the description
given by M. Temminck, who appears to have paid a close attention to the subject.
‘In the adult male, the head and neck are of an ashy blue, darkening on the upper part of the back into
black clouded with blue; below this a large white space extends as low as the upper tail-coverts, which are
also black. The shoulders black; the quill-feathers dark brown ; the tail ferruginous red, except the two
middle feathers, which are rufous brown ; the chest and whole of the under surface bright ferruginous, each
feather, especially those of the inferior tail-coverts, being obscurely tipped with white ; beak blackish ; legs
brown. Length seven inches and a half.”
‘¢ The females have the whole of the upper parts brown ; on the back are several large whitish markings
bordered with brown; the throat and sides of the neck of a pure white ;” but it often happens that the
feathers of that part are edged with ashy brown ; the rest of the inferior surface is of a reddish white, with
fine transverse bars at the tip of each feather; tail of a light red, with the two middle feathers of an ashy
brown.
The young of the year are, again, altogether different. The whole of the upper parts are ashy brown
mottled with whitish grey; the end of each feather marked with a white spot; the quill-feathers and coverts are
darker, the feathers forming the coverts having a grey border and whitish ends; tail red, lighter in colour
at the extremity ; the under parts very similar in colour to those of the adult female, but with more of white
varied with red, and a multitude of irregular markings of brown.
Its food consists of Scarabzei and other insects, as well as wild berries.
Our Plate represents a male and female in full plumage.
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THRUSH.
Petrocmcla cyanus, /
BLUE
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BLUE THRUSH.
Petrocincla cyanus, V 2g.
Le Merle bleu.
Like its congener, the Rock Thrush (Perocincla saxatilis), the present species is a native of the rocky and
mountainous districts of. Europe, particularly towards the south, being very abundant in Piedmont and the
Apennines, and also of common occurrence throughout Spain, Sardinia, Italy and the Levant. It is met
with also in the South of France, but is rare in Switzerland. India and China produce a bird in every respect
identical, with the exception of size, those which are received from Asia being considerably smaller than their
European representative. Although the congenial habitat of the Blue Thrush is the rocky scenery of
mountain chains, among which it breeds and remains throughout the year, still in many of its characters it
seems to constitute a link between the more typical form of the genus Petrocincla and that of the true
Thrushes, which latter it approaches in the proportions of the tarsi and tail. In the typical Petrocincle,
(P. savatiis, for example,) the tarsi are strong and very elongated; but the tail is short, a conformation in
harmony with strictly terrestrial habits. In the present bird, the tarsi are more moderate and the tail more
developed; still, however, as its habits, style of plumage and general outline declare, it is in every sense a
member of the genus in which it is now placed.
The Blue Thrush is shy and solitary, dwelling with its mate in the still and sequestered recesses of the
rocks, in the clefts of which it builds its nest, though this is not always the case, as it often chooses the
crumbling walls of lonely towers or buildings, and sometimes the holes of trees, in which to rear its young.
The eggs are dull greenish white. Its food, like that of its congener, consists of grasshoppers, large insects
in general, and wild berries.
The male and female exhibit considerable difference in their plumage, the young males of the year
resembling the latter. In the adult male, the whole of the upper surface is of a deep greyish blue, many of
the feathers being margined with grey; the wings and tail are black ; the under surface is of a lighter blue
than the upper, with obscure narrow bars of brown edged with white on the chest and abdomen ; the beak
and tarsi are black.
The female has the whole of the upper surface brown, obscurely barred with ash colour ; the wings and tail
blackish brown, each feather having a blueish margin ; the throat light brown, the feathers tipped and edged
with black; the chest and under surface varied with light brown, grey and black, in pointed scales and
transverse bars.
The young males may be seen in various stages between this style of colouring and the rich blue of the
bird in its maturity.
The Plate represents a male and female in their adult plumage, of the natural size.
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BLACK WHEATEAR.
Saxicola cachinnans; (7 cm /
BLACK WHEATEAR.
Saxicola cachinnans, Temm.
Le Traquet rieur.
Axruoucu the most proper situation for this fine species is doubtless among the true Wheatears (Sazicole),
yet its greater size, robust bill, and more short and rounded wings, indicate a departure from the typical form,
and an approximation to some other group, which at present we have not been able distinctly to make out ;
we suspect, however, that the group to which it will ultimately be found to lead is one of the terrestrial
division of the family of Meruhde. Though one of the birds of Europe, we cannot include it in our
native fauna: it, is indeed, confined to the southern portions of the Continent, and is common at Gibraltar,
where it is known annually to breed; it is also found in all the rocky and arid districts of Spain, Sicily, and
the islands of the Mediterranean, as well as on the opposite coast of Africa. Judging from its form alone,
we should be led to consider that the present species is not migratory, a supposition which is confirmed by
its being a resident in countries where its food is ever abundant, and by its never having been known to visit
the more northern districts of Europe, to which the Long-winged Wheatears are periodical visiters. We
have said, that the present species is an inhabitant of the northern coast of Africa, which country also pro-
duces another closely allied to it, differing only in having a more lengthened wing, and the top of the head of
a pure snow white. These two birds are by many ornithologists considered as one species, and that the
white-crowned one is the adult of the present bird. We have ourselves carefully examined both these birds, and
have no hesitation in declaring that they are truly distinct, differing not only in colour, but in relative admea-
surements, the white-crowned species having a body of the same size, but a wing nearly an inch longer, being
in all respects a typical Wheatear. Whether this African species is also a native of any part of Europe, we
have as yet had no opportunity of ascertaining. The confusion between the two species has evidently arisen
from the circumstance, that the young of the white-headed or African species does not possess the white on
the top of the head, and in this state cannot, except by a narrow scrutiny, be distinguished from the young or
the female of the true Saxicola cachinnans.
In its manners, the Black Wheatear is shy and timid, avoiding the presence of man, and confining itself to
arid rocky places, where it is rarely disturbed by his presence. Its food consists of insects, beetles, &c.
The general plumage of the male is black ; the rump white, as are the tail-feathers, except at their tips,
which with the whole of the two middle feathers are black; beak and tarsi black ; irides dark brown.
The female resembles the male in the distribution of her colours, but the black is much less pure and
strongly inclines to brown.
The young resemble the female in their plumage.
We have figured an adult male and female of the natural size.
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PIED WHEATEAR.
Saxicola leucomela; (Zemm/
Drammen Haturehe om Stone y SLE, Could. Linted by CHulimanded:
A
s
PIED WHEATEAR.
Saxicola leucomela, Temm.
Le Traquet leucoméle.
Wuite the downs, commons, and barren heaths of our island are enlivened by the presence of the Common
Wheatear (Saaicola Ginanthe, Bechst.), and the plains and deserts of Spain, Italy, and the southern districts of
Europe in general are equally so with Sawicola aurita and stapazina, the northern portions, which include Rus-
sia and Lapland, are to be enumerated among the places in which the present fine species habitually takes up
its station ; and although so little is known respecting the natural habits of this bird as to leave us in a state
of uncertainty regarding its migration, as well as the localities it chooses in which to incubate and rear its
young, yet we may reasonably suppose that its general economy is in strict unison with that of its conge-
ners. The Manuel of M. Temminck informs us, that so exclusively boreal is this species that it is never seen
in temperate climates ; which circumstance will lead us to infer that Siberia, Upper Tartary, and the most
northern portions of Asia will hereafter prove to be countries of which nature has destined this bird to be a
native, and the limited numbers which occasionally visit Europe to be individuals traversing the outer limits of
their appointed range.
The female we have never yet seen; her colouring, however, will be readily understood when we state
that where the male is black, the same parts in the opposite sex are of a dull brown ; and the parts which are
white in the former are of an obscure light brown in the latter.
It is said to construct a nest in rocks and old buildings, sometimes on the borders of rivers: of the number
and colours of its eggs nothing is at present known.
The adult male has the top of the head, back of the neck, rump, base of the tail, breast, and under parts,
with the exception of the vent, which is light rusty brown, of a pure white; the rest of the plumage being of
an equally fine black, thus forming a strong contrast ; legs and bill black.
The Plate represents an adult male of the natural size.
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Saxicola cenanthe (AechZ/
POM.
tly &L Could, ye:
LUGO,
WHEATEAR.
Saxicola G#nanthe.
Le Traquet moteux.
Tus Wheatear is one of the summer migratory birds which annually visit the British Islands, arriving in
March, when it disperses itself over wild heaths, moors, fallow grounds, and rabbit warrens, making a nest of
moss and vegetable fibres, lined with hair or wool, generally in a hole on the ground or among loose stones,
but not unfrequently in the cleft of a rock or at some distance in a deserted rabbit burrow, and laying five
or six eggs of a uniform pale blue. The extreme delicacy of the Wheatear has caused it to be much sought
after as a luxury for the table, for which purpose incredible numbers are annually taken. Mr. Pennant, in his
British Zoology, states that at Eastbourne, in Sussex, the number annually taken amounts to 1840 dozen.
‘ They are principally caught by shepherds, who from the nature of their occupation have every opportunity of
studying the habits of this bird, so as to contrive the most successful mode of securing them,which is generally
effected by nooses of horsehair.
In September, previous to their departure to the Continent, they make the downs of our southern counties
a place for their general assemblage, where they wait for a favourable wind to carry them over the intervening
channel. |
In its habitat, the Wheatear is especially confined to open and bare grounds, seeking neither the covert of
the furze nor the hedgerow, as is the case with the other British species of Scaicola,—a circumstance which,
perhaps, in connexion with a trifling modification of form, has induced some authors, viz. Brisson, Stephens,
&c., to separate it from S. rubetra, the Stonechat, and the Whinchat, S. rwbécoda, and advance it to the rank of
a genus, to which they have given the name of Vittaflora, the propriety of which we leave to others to deter-
mine, as it is not so much our object to enter into the minutiz of generic divisions, as to give a faithful por-
traiture and history of each species, with a view to their natural arrangement on comprehensive principles.
The Wheatear is a pleasing and elegant bird in its plumage ; and its manners, though retired, are lively and
active. Hopping and springing from clod to clod, and occasionally breaking out into short flights in pursuit
of insects, it becomes conspicuous from the snow-white mark across the base of the tail.
Beside the softer insects which it captures on the wing, Coleoptera and their larve form its diet, to which
worms, &c., are also added.
Although not generally classed among our song birds, nevertheless the Wheatear is not without its vocal
powers, warbling a soft and sweet strain, not unfrequently while quivering on the wing a few yards from the
earth : occasionally its notes rise to a bolder and more elevated pitch ; and when kept in confinement, a matter
of no great difficulty, it charms us with its simple song, continued through the depths of winter.
In the adult male, the bill is black; the irides dark hazel; from the base of the bill a white line extends
over each eye, and beneath it a broad black band passes which includes the orbits and ear-coverts ; upper part
of the head and back cinereous gray ; rump and tail-coverts white; the two middle tail-feathers black ; the
rest black two thirds. of their length from the base; wings blackish brown; each feather edged with a
lighter rust-coloured border ; throat and neck beautiful buff, becoming lighter as it proceeds downwards ; tarsi
black.
In the female, the under parts are brown ; the forehead inclining more to gray ; the black parts in the male,
including the mark across the eye, are here exchanged for deep brown; the edges of the wing-feathers are
more or less ferruginous ; the white at the base of the tail is less extensive, and the neck and chest are
reddish, becoming lighter as it approaches the under surface.
The young of the year of both sexes somewhat resemble the adult female ; but a tinge of red pervades the
whole of the plumage, and especially the edges of the quill- and tail-feathers. Total length about six inches.
We have figured a male and female in their spring plumage.
24
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RUSS
WHEATEAR.
Saxicola Stapazina; (/7émm/
U by € Hillmandel:
e
RUSSET WHEATEAR.
Saxicola stapazina, Temm.
Le Traquet stapazin.
In making the Savicola stapazina a different species from the S. aurta, we rely not so much on our own
observation as on the opinion of M. Temminck, who assured us personally that he had every reason for
considering them as distinct species; and in his ‘‘ Manuel d’Ornithologie” he remarks, that the European
habitat of the S. stapazena is more limited than that of 8. awrita, being restricted solely to the rocky borders
of the Mediterranean, the South of Italy, Dalmatia and the Grecian Archipelago ; that it is rarely seen in the
North of Italy, and never in the central districts of Europe. It is to be regretted, that in consequence of
the peculiar localities in which alone this bird is found, our opportunities for studying it during its various
changes are very limited : we have, however, exerted ourselves to obtain as many specimens as possible, and
we now possess a series of examples, killed at different seasons of the year, upon which we rely for our de-
scription. Unlike the Common Wheatear, which exhibits so marked a difference in the plumage of the sexes,
the Russet Wheatear, in the adult stage, differs rather in the purity than in the decided contrast of colours
which distinguishes the male and female; but, like the Sawicofe in general, each sex, after the autumn moult,
loses, by the gradual action of the air and light, as the spring approaches, the rich rufous tone of colouring
by which the plumage is at first characterized, the tints becoming gradually paler and the black of the wings
deeper, the brown tips of the feathers being worn off.
In habits and manners, the Savicola stapazina is a true example of its genus, preferring, like the Wheatear,
wide elevated downs, where it obtains its food, seldom perching upon trees, and never retiring to the wood-
lands for shelter. Of its nidification nothing positive is known.
In the adult plumage of spring, the male is thus distinguished. From the beak to the eye, and from thence
over the ear-coverts, extends a band of black, of which colour are the throat, scapulars and quills ; the top
of the head, the rump and under parts are pure white; the back of the neck and back are light rufous; the
tail white for three parts of its length and black at the tip, with the exception of the outer feathers, which are
almost wholly black, and the two middle ones, which are quite so.
Immediately after the autumn moult, the top of the head and back of the neck have a shade of ash colour ;
the breast is reddish, gradually passing into white, and the black scapulars and quills are edged with rufous.
The young males of the year resemble the female, in which the tints are altogether of a redder hue; the
dark feathers of the throat and region of the eyes being brownish black, the quills and coverts edged with
reddish, and the breast reddish white.
The Plate represents an adult of the natural size just after the autumn moult, and a bird of the first year,
killed at the same season, differing only in the rufous edging of the wing-feathers.
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BLACK-EARED WHEAT EAR. |
Saxicola aurita,/Zomm./
Druin from Ly and on Stone by kL, Gould,
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Binted by C Eplimandd,
BLACK-EARED WHEATEAR.
Saxicola aurita, Temm.
Le Traquet oreillard.
Iv a remark subjoined to a description of the Saztcola aurita, in M. Temminck’s ‘“ Manuel d’Ornithologie,”
that learned naturalist observes, that had he not a thorough conviction of the distinction between this and the
bird previously described by him, (S. séapazzna,) he should be ready to admit their specific identity, differing as
they do in one point only, viz. the black throat of the latter being exchanged in the former for white or whitish
rufous, the black band from the beak over the ear-coverts being alone retained: in the rest of the plumage
the agreement is precise. For our own part, we confess, that were it not that M. Temminck expresses
himself positively on this subject, and asserts that ‘‘ the s¢apazina in its different stages has the throat and a
part of the neck always of a deep black or blackish,” we should have hesitated, the difference being less than
is known to occur in many birds under the varying circumstances of age, sex, or season. We, however, follow
the opinion of so distinguished an ornithologist, supported, as we doubt not it is, by positive proofs,—and
therefore describe the species as truly distinct.
In habits and manners the Black-eared Wheatear agrees with its allied congener, inhabiting the hilly
districts of the South of Europe: it is, however, more common in the North of Italy than the Russet
Wheatear. Though in the centre of Europe it is never seen, the borders of the Mediterranean, the Apennines,
Sardinia and the Neapolitan States are abundantly supplied with this species. Of its nidification we have no
accounts upon which we can rely.
Adult male in spring : From the beak to the eye and thence over the ear-coverts extends a band of black ;
head and rump pure white ; back of the neck and back light reddish brown ; throat and under parts white ;
tail white for three parts of its length and tipped with black, excepting the outer feathers, which are nearly all
black, and the two middle feathers, which are entirely so; wings black. |
The adult female nearly resembles the male in all her markings, having the head and upper surface
reddish brown ; throat whitish ; breast reddish, becoming lighter below ; rump white ; and the wings blackish
brown, each feather being finely edged with reddish.
After the autumn moult, the plumage exhibits the deep tints and rufous edgings to the feathers which
characterize the preceding species at the same time. The young of the year differ little from the adult
female, and exhibit only obscure traces of the ear-mark ; but their plumage is more equally tinted with
rufous.
The Plate represents an adult male in the spring and autumn plumage.
WHINCHAT.
Saxicola rubetra, (/PechsZ/
andcm Stone by! & £, Gorbd. tinted by C Lulinaniel:
WHINCHAT.
Saxicola rubetra, Bechst.
Le Grand Traquet.
Amone the smaller migratory birds which visit us on the return of spring, the Whinchat is one of the most
pleasing and elegant ; it seldom, however, favours us with its presence before the middle of April, frequenting,
in pairs, the pasture lands and commons of every part of England, but is more scarce in Devonshire and
Cornwall, especially the western portions of those counties. Though not a distinguished songster, its simple
and hurried notes are by no means unpleasing, and well accord with its active and sprightly manners. In some
of its habits it is not unlike the Fly-catchers, perching on a stem of grass or dock, darting at the insects as they
pass by, and returning again to its station. But its length of tarsi indicates the bare and open ground of meadows
and commons to be its peculiar province; hence it is not found to frequent woods or thick coppices, as is
the case with our songsters in general: shy and timid, it seldom allows itself to be approached, but with a
quick and lively action flits forward to the next bush or elevation of earth, incessantly watching the intruder ;
and, if again disturbed, repeating the same short flight ; still, however, keeping within the neighbourhood of
its residence for the season, and where, on her sheltered nest, the female is carrying on the process of incuba-
tion. During this period the male bird displays great restlessness and apprehension if the nest be approached,
flitting from spray to spray, jerking its tail repeatedly, and uttering its querulous note, which may be repre-
sented by the two syllables «—+tick, the latter of which is frequently reiterated, and the whole note is sounded
so distinct and clear as to be heard at a considerable distance. It builds its nest on or near the ground, and
forms it principally of coarse grasses lined with finer fibres: the eggs are in general five or six in number, of
a greenish blue, minutely speckled with light reddish brown at the large end.
The Whinchat seems to be universally spread over the northern portion of the European continent, its
favourite localities being the same as in England, viz. mountainous heaths and extensive pasture lands.
Although a general similarity exists between the plumage of the sexes, the males may always be distinguished
by their brighter and more strongly contrasted colours, and by the conspicuous white stripe over the eye and
on the wing.
As the autumn advances and insects become scarce, the Whinchat dissappears, passing over to the more
southern countries, and not improbably to the Levant, Syria, and the northern coast of Africa, where its supplies
of insect food are still abundant.
In the male, the bill is black, furnished at its base with a few bristles ; a broad black streak beginning at
the bill passes through the eyes and covers the ear-feathers, above which extends another line of white ; crown
of the head, back, and wing-coverts of a dark brown, the edges of each feather being of a light ferruginous
colour; chin white; throat and breast orange-brown ; belly, vent and thighs pale buff; tail short, the bases
of the outer feathers white, the rest black.
In the female, the streak over the eye is much less conspicuous ; the cheeks instead of being black are of
the same colour as the rest of the head; the general plumage is duller, the marks less distinct, and the white
mark on the wing totally wanting ; legs and toes black. Total length about five inches.
Our Plate represents a male and female.
TAH DY it or we
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STONIJIE-C HAT.
Saxicola rubiecola, (Bechst/.
Drastnfrormlife bo Stone by 7d: B Could, ; Printed ly CBullmandel,
STONECHAT.
Saxicola rubicola, Bechst.
Le Traquet patre.
M. Temmincx, whose knowledge of European birds cannot be questioned, states in his ‘Manuel
d@’ Ornithologie,” that the Saaicola rubicola is a bird of passage in Europe, but stationary in Africa: however
this may be, it is certainly stationary in England, and may be observed at all seasons on commons, moorlands,
and shrubby heaths, from one extremity of the British Isles to the other. It is a species possessing a wide
range of habitat, as examples from India and Africa present no specific differences. Its habits and manners
are somewhat in unison with its allied congener the Whinchat, but it is even more restless and noisy, flitting
from bush to bush, or rock to rock, and not unfrequently perching on the tops of the flower of the thistle or
highest twig of the whinbush, at the same time uttering its singular monotonous notes, which may be compared
to the clicking of two stones struck together at repeated intervals.
The present bird and the Whinchat (Savicola rubetra, Bechst.) present many points of difference, both in
form and habits, from the rest of the genus: instead of being confined almost exclusively to the ground, as is
the case with Saxicola enanthe, stapazina and aurita, they give the preference to low bushes and shrubs, as
above noticed, on which they habitually perch, constituting in this respect an intermediate grade between the
genuine Savicole and the true woodland Sylviade, or rather, perhaps, the Muscicapide (Flycatchers), which
they resemble in the abruptness of their actions and in their manner of darting from their perch at insects on
the wing, in pursuit of which they appear incessantly occupied. These, indeed, with larvee and worms,
constitute their food.
The Stonechat builds its nest at the bottom of bushes, or among the crevices of rocks: the eggs are pale
green with a few blotches of light red.
The male and female offer a decided contrast in their colouring.
In the male, the head, throat and tail are of a deep black ; the sides of the neck, the scapulars and rump
_ of a pure white; the back deep black, each feather having a light reddish margin; wings blackish ; breast
deep rufous, becoming paler on the under surface.
The female has the upper surface of a brownish black, each feather having a yellowish red border, as have
also those of the wings and tail, which are brown ; throat black slightly dotted with white and reddish ; the
white space on the side of the neck and scapulars is less extensive, and the rufous of the chest less bright.
The young male closely resembles the adult female.
The Plate represents a male and female in perfect plumage, of the natural size.
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REDSTART.
Phemiecura ruticilla, -Swacns/
Printed by 0 elimaraiel:
Genus PHOXKNICURA.
Gen. Cuar. Bill rather slender, somewhat widened at the base ; compressed towards the tip,
which is deflected and emarginated. Tomza of the mandibles, before the nostrils, bending
iwards. Gape slightly bearded. Nostrils basal, oval, lateral, pierced in a membrane,
and partly concealed by the feathers of the forehead. Wings rather long, with the first
quill very short ; the second inferior to the third; the fourth the longest of all. Tuzl of
mean length, slightly rounded or square; coloured more or less with reddish brown.
Legs having the tarsz longer than the middle toe. Toes slender, the outer toe joined. at
its base to the middle one; the former and the inner toe short, nearly equal in length and
each reaching only to the second joint of the middle one. Claws not much hooked ; that
of the hind toe the longest.
REDSTART.
Pheenicura ruticilla, Swazns.
Le Bec-fin de Murailles.
Tse genus Phenicura, as instituted by Mr. Swainson, though the term itself is somewhat exceptionable, forms
a well-defined and natural group, of which the present species may be considered a typical example. All the
individuals of the genus appear to be confined to the Old World, several:of the species being restricted to
Asia, and those which may be considered as European being all migratory, and retiring on the approach of
winter to a warmer climate.
The Phenicura ruticilla is distinguished by the beautiful contrasts and richness of its colouring, as also by
the sprightliness and animation evinced in the vigilant pursuit of its prey, while every action is accompanied
by a peculiar vibratory movement of the tail, repeated for a considerable time on its alighting.
Familiar with man, this interesting visiter frequents gardens and orchards, fearlessly building in situations
as if expressly to court observation,—for example, between the branch of a fruit tree and the wall against
which it is nailed, the gardener’s tool-house, or the holes of an old building or out-house, or, indeed, in any
convenient aperture. The eggs are five or six in number, of a beautiful greenish blue colour. During the
time of incubation, the male, conspicuous by the band of white on his forehead and the deep red of the tail,
may be observed assiduously engaged in the capture of the softer winged insects, which he seizes while flying,
darting after them from one resting-place to another with great celerity; he does not, however, return after
each sally to the same perch again, like the Flycatchers, but continues a system of irregular pursuit.
As a songster, the Redstart holds no inferior place, though its song is hurried, and the notes neither rich
nor powerful ; still it never fails to excite feelings of pleasure from its simple sweetness.
The male in the adult plumage has the head and upper part of the back fine blueish ash colour, a broad
white band extending from eye to eye across the forehead ; the throat black; the breast, rump and lateral
tail-feathers of a brilliant rufous ; the under surface whitish ; the under tail-coverts light rufous ; and the two
middle tail-feathers brown.
The female is distinguished by the general greenish brown of her plumage; the upper surface being more
tinged with reddish, the throat cinereous merging into reddish brown on the under parts, and the tail dull
rufous.
The young birds, like those of the Redbreast, are brown mottled with white : by degrees, however, they
lose this plumage, and before leaving us in autumn, the males begin to acquire traces of the distinguishing
style of colouring, the head having a tint of grey and the throat showing indications of black, while the
upper parts acquire an obscure grey colour, each feather having a reddish margin. At all stages the beak
and tarsi are black.
The Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
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BLACK REDSTART.
Phoemcura Tithys, (Yard k Selby /.
Dravm trom Maitre & on Stone by J bs B. Goadd,
BLACK REDSTART.
Pheenicura tithys, Jard. and Selby.
Le Bec-fin a rouge queue.
Since the discovery of this species as an occasional visitant, as recorded by us in the “Zoological Journal,”
vol. 5. No. 17. p. 102., we have ascertained the fact of several other examples having been killed in different
counties: and here we may mention that a fine specimen was shot at Brighton, another at Bristol, and a male
bird was killed on Teignmouth sands in Devonshire, on the 7th of January 1833, by L. Sulivan, Esq.,
who placed the specimen in our hands. Still the occurrence of the Phenicura tithys in our island must be
considered as a circumstance of extreme rarity, though in some parts of the Continent it is as abundant as
its nearly allied congener the Redstart with us. According to M. Temminck, it is found in the northern
provinces of Europe, especially in rocky situations, a fact borne out by Mr. Sulivan’s observations on the
specimen he killed, which was flitting about the rocks on the Devonshire coast. In Holland and the flat
lands of the Continent it appears to be nearly as rare as in England. In our late journey through Prussia,
we observed it all along the road between Frankfort and Berlin. Its nest, M. Temminck says, is placed in
the clefts of rocks, or in the fissures of towers and other old buildings ; the eggs being six in number, of a
pinky white.
The male and female offer considerable difference in the colouring of their plumage, the former of which
may be thus described :—
The space between the beak and the eye, the cheeks, the throat and breast, deep black, which fades off
into blueish ash on the belly and flanks; the upper parts are more inclined to dark grey; the forehead
inclining to white; the rump and tail bright red, the middle feathers of the latter being brown ; the greater
coverts of the wings bordered with white ; beak, irides and tarsi blackish brown.
The female has the upper parts of a dull brownish grey; the lower parts light grey; the coverts and quill-
feathers bordered with grey ; the rump and the tail-feathers dull red ; beak, irides and tarsi as in the male.
We have figured an adult male and female of the natural size.
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*
THROATED WARBLER.
Pheenicura Suecica .
7h on Stone by ThE Conia.
Printed by CBlinanded:
BLUE-THROATED WARBLER.
Pheenicura Suecica, Jardine & Selby.
Le Bec-fin gorge bleue.
Tue scientific authors of “ Illustrations in Ornithology” were induced to separate several species of Warblers
from the very extensive genus Sylvia of Latham, on account of their general resemblance to our well-known
Redstart. The term Phenicura was applied to them as a generic distinction, and several reasons have induced
us to adopt the genus, and consider the Blue-throated Warbler as belonging to this new subdivision. The
species of this small group appear to be intermediate in their nature between those belonging to the genera
Saxicola and Curruca. Like the Wheatear, the Blue-throated Warbler is considered a delicate article of food,
and in the vicinity of Alsace numbers are captured for the use of the table; in its habits, in the situation often
chosen for its nest, and the colour of its eggs, it exhibits a general resemblance to the Redstart.
The Blue-throated Warbler, somewhat resembling our well-known Robin in its form, is found thinly
scattered over the countries of Europe, from Sweden to the Mediterranean, but is most plentiful in the central
parts of the Continent. Throughout Germany and the Northern territories it is a migratory bird, like many
others of the Warblers, appearing in April, and departing in September. On their arrival they frequent thick
hedges, small woods and the borders of forests, building their nests in holes of trees, sometimes in cavities
between stones near water, or on the banks of rivulets among roots which the action of the stream has laid
bare. The nest is formed of dried bents and moss, with a few dead leaves, and lined with various sorts of hair.
The female lays five or six eggs of a delicate pale greenish blue ; the male is remarkable for his attention to
his mate, and has an agreeable song, which is sometimes heard in the night.
The length of an adult bird is nearly six inches; the top of the head, all the upper parts of the body and
wings are uniform clove brown; the beak black; over the eye a pale streak; throat and fore-part of the neck
ultramarine blue, with a well-defined spot of pure white in the centre; beneath the blue colour is a black
bar, then a narrow line of white, and still lower a broad band of bright chestnut ; belly dirty white, flanks
and under tail-coverts light reddish brown; the two middle tail-feathers clove brown, throughout their whole
length, all the others on both sides have the basal half bright chestnut, the other half black ; legs and claws
brown. ‘The female resembles the male in the uniform colour of the upper parts; the white patch on the
throat, descending from the beak, occupies a much larger space ; the blue colour on the sides of the neck is
mixed with black; the successive bars of blue, black, white and chestnut towards the bottom of the neck in
front are much less perfectly defined ; and the belly and flanks more inclined to brown.
The Blue-throated Warbler is rather a rare bird both in the western parts of France and in Holland, still
more rare in this country, only one instance of its occurrence being on record. This specimen was shot in
May 1826, by Mr. T. Embleton, on the boundary hedge of the Newcastle Town Moor, and by him presented
to the Museum of the Literary and Philosophical Society. The first notice of the capture of this interesting
addition to our Fauna appeared in a Synopsis of the Newcastle Museum, by G. T. Fox, Esq., of Durham,
(pages 298 and 300). This bird was considered a young male, and was probably obtained soon after its
arrival.
We have figured a male and female of the natural size.
we
¥
ROBIN.
Erythaca rubecula; /Swacns/
Drawn from Nature b on stoneby SéE Gaubd Srated ty C Helimonvded,
Genus ERYTHACA, Swains.
Gen. Cuar. Bill broad, rather depressed at the base, gently narrowing towards the tip, where
it is slightly compressed ; of mean strength, with the upper mandible deflected at the tp,
and emarginated. Nostri/s basal, lateral, oval, pierced in a large membrane, and nearly
concealed by the projecting feathers of the antize; gape beset with thick bristly hairs.
Wings having the first quill very short, the second double the length of the first, the third
shorter than the fourth and fifth, which are nearly equal, and the longest in the wing.
Legs with the tarsi longer than the middle toe; the outer toe joined at its base to the
middle one; the outer and inner toes short, nearly equal in length, and each only reaching
to the second joint of the middle one. Claws not much hooked; that of the hind toe the
longest. F orm short and compact.
ROBIN.
Erythaca rubecula, Swazns.
Le Bec-fin rouge-gorge.
* :
We may consider this lively and familiar bird as strictly indigenous to Europe, since among the numerous
and extensive collections received from Northern Africa, India, and China we have never observed a single
example, neither is it mentioned (as far as we are aware,) by any writer as an inhabitant of those countries ;
it appears, however, to extend eastward as far as the border line of Asia Minor, one example, and one alone,
having been received in a collection from the shores of the Black Sea. In Europe the middle and northern
regions are those in which it appears to be most abundant and over which it is universally spread; there are
none, indeed, who are not well acquainted with its habits and manners, and with whom it is not a favourite.
One of those species whose fearless confidence in man lead it to frequent his gardens and the precincts of his.
house, its sprightly manners and its animated song, which is poured forth morning and evening even throughout
the autumn and colder part of the year when other songsters are silent, render it a most welcome visitor to bis
habitation. Attractive as the Robin is in all its habits and manners, still it is of a quarrelsome and pugnacious
disposition : two males seldom agree to live within the range of the same garden or within a given distance,
the stronger always driving away its weaker antagonist; in this respect the Robin differs from many other
birds that flock together in winter, and even from its nearly allied species, such as Redstarts and Wheatears,
which migrate at the close of summer to a warmer climate, whilst it braves our coldest winters with the utmost
impunity. During the greater part of the year its food consists of worms, grubs, the softer caterpillars,
and other small insects, together with berries and fruits when in season; but in the depth of winter, when
its natural food cannot be procured, it subsists upon crumbs and other refuse.
The sexes, which are alike in plumage, appear to continue mated throughout the whole of the year, and
commence the task of incubation at an early period before many of our summer visitors have even arrived,
in consequence of which they have generally two broods in the course of the year. The places chosen for the
site of the nest is entirely according to circumstances, being sometimes a bank at the root of a tree, at others
in the side of a house, in a hole in a wall, in the tool-house of the gardener, &c. The nest is constructed of
moss, leaves, grass, the stalks of plants, or any material near at hand, generally lined with hair; the eggs are
five or six in number, of a whitish grey with reddish spots. The young during the first three months of their
existence would hardly be recognised as the progeny of the Robin, so much do they differ from the adult
birds in the colouring of their plumage; a change of feather takes place in the winter, when their new dress
resembles that of the adults and being then fully competent to shift for themselves, they are driven by their
parents to a distance and compelled to locate elsewhere.
The top of the head and the whole of the upper surface is of a soft olive brown, the wings and tail being
darkest ; face, throat, and breast fine ferruginous red ; the rest of the under surface dull white ; bill, irides,
and tarsi blackish brown.
The young when fully fledged have the upper surface of a deep brown, thickly speckled with dots of
yellow; the chest is slightly tinged with ferruginous, each feather having a dark brown margin; under surface
greyish white.
The Plate represents an adult male and female, and a fully fledged young bird, of the natural size.
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ALPINE ACCENTOR.
Accentor Alpimus; (Bechst/
Drannjrom Nakure k on Stone by T&L, Coubd. Lrinted by C Halimandel:
Genus ACCENTOR, Becdst.
Gen. Cuar. Bill strong, straight, of mean length, and drawn to a fine point; the tomia of
both mandibles bending slightly inwards, and the upper mandible emarginated. Nostrals
basal, naked, and pierced in a large membrane. Legs strong. Toes three before and
one behind; the outer one joined at its base to the middle toe. Wings having the first
quill very short, and the second a little shorter than the third, which is the longest.
ALPINE ACCENTOR.
Accentor alpinus, Bechst.
Accenteur pegot ou des Alpes.
Tur genus Accentor is extremely limited in the number of its species, and, with the exception of an un-
described bird from the Himalayan mountains, the members are confined to Europe.
The native habitat of the Alpine Accentor are the bleak and mountainous parts of the Continent, and, as its
name implies, it gives preference to the Alps, where it dwells in districts of the most abrupt and rocky nature.
It is extremely common in Switzerland and the Tyrol, ascending in summer to their most elevated portions,
and seeking shelter, as winter advances, in their valleys and central regions. Several specimens have been
taken in England, and if we recollect right the Rev. Dr. Thackeray, Provost of King’s College, Cambridge,
informed us that he observed two examples of this singular and rare bird in the garden of King’s College ;
from the great interest he has always taken in the study of our native birds, two more welcome visitors could
scarcely have come under his notice: one of them, we believe the male, was obtained, and now enriches the
extensive and valuable collection of this worthy gentleman.
Its food consists of insects and their larvee, worms, grubs, &c. It is also said to destroy grasshoppers and
small locusts, which abound in alpine regions.
It breeds im the holes and fissures of the rocks, laying four or five greenish blue eggs, which, though a little
larger, are not otherwise unlike those of the common Hedge Accentor of England.
In this well-defined and very natural group, we find the sexes of all the known species to be so strictly
similar in the colouring of their plumage as to present no outward difference in their markings; neither do
the young offer any material deviation, possessing as they do at an early age the general style of dress, but
wanting that brilliancy and decisiveness of marking which characterize the adults.
Our Plate represents a male and female, corresponding in every particular with the bird taken at Cambridge,
which, as Mr. Selby informs us, formed the subject of the Plate in his admirable work on the birds of the
British Islands.
The crown and upper surface grey brown, the feathers on the back having their centres darker ; scapula-
ries and tertials deep brown edged with chestnut brown; greater and lesser wing-coverts black with a white
space on the tip; quills blackish brown, with lighter edges ; flanks chestnut brown, each feather being edged
with greyish white; tail dark brown, each feather having a yellowish white spot on the inner web at the tip ;
legs light flesh brown ; upper mandible dark horn-colour, the under one much lighter.
The figures are of the natural size.
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rail ie 4 veh te eerie i) uk, yaaa al ie satiate if hae es % lag le ; ; | a.
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‘ Boi 3 ie § 2 Gee uTSE aie t ec eee 4 a boa | Ye orelagceiy Deaayh, oak he i
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fap: wpary ante sled H tai ast Seine oni a CG +t ab as i ‘ i i
; ay We intiaad Jabakt Goaiae 1G le am ‘whit fit, rane Hi tage - a
q : ’ i di i wipten ote Eni ov Ait is 2 : Py FA ie thet viel ete j et hie
ees soba ‘ Rly ai waits fy wed OL TH oo at. ae ‘i Cikep. Hn 1] mH ‘plist ‘ae te grr
: ) Cy ae iat AA he ee flP vii ; ' | ye) oa ek ah LAAT ig 4 : a Le 8 og Leriats M ee, ‘sito: gine ott:
‘ iba ade awieelae lids dante a eben Wh eerie chapel fea ye iaatteal rival evn ml
i P [Stet are z : F LF
pen eet ayiel | (i Talore Ye Tat | ae Moai ity tag il eh Ge (y A neil Geetas ge ea | feiss pee
“ ; Hin at ae ‘vid ie
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of sansdas wdt 4 mee | stoaul ie i iat Coe snipe th crud 4 kia buyer, aE } ie cP
e ablgeed acl, drive borali , yale Aeitiot ee epi Ae
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died ilsay erordedaateads ehnok (any ty ond yt iter diyond top ne de Cat He BO bikie a
neil ail ed loge enedve deveotioy a wait wheltnnt fond, ane
oh ashbait dayne au aban yh obi: ad oper
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HEDGE ACCENTOR.
Accentor modularis; /Czw./
Drawn u from Natove 4 i sume by JEL. Contd, Lrinted by C Eabimonidel,
HEDGE ACCENT OR.
Accentor modularis, Cuv.
L’Accenteur mouchet.
In every garden and in every hedgerow may this familiar but obscurely coloured bird be seen, not only
throughout the whole of Great Britain, but nearly the whole of Central Europe. Though strictly belonging to
the Sylviade, it is one of the few that make our island a permanent place of residence; it is also one of the
hardiest of our small birds, and appears to brave the severest winters with indifference. It may be observed
when the ground is frozen, and even covered with snow, as lively and alert as at other times in search of its
food, which lies concealed on the surface of the earth, or among the dead leaves on banks, bottoms of hedge-
rows, &c.; often, indeed, will it mingle with the common Sparrow and the Robin, entering the farmyard, and
approaching within the precincts of human habitation, and displaying great confidence and familiarity. Its ac-
tions and manners are strictly terrestrial, which is to be accounted for principally from the circumstance of its
food, being mostly obtained on the ground: it progresses by a succession of short hops, inquisitively prying
among the grass and leaves in search of insects, small worms, the seeds of plants, &c. During the spring the
male pours forth its song, which although not characterized by any great compass of scale, is nevertheless agree-
able, and is not entirely suspended during the winter months ; this fact is confirmed by Cuvier, who informs us
that it cheers that season with its pleasant song: we also learn from this celebrated naturalist, that although
a winter visitant in France, it retires northwards in spring to breed, which is certainly not the case in our own
island, as its nest and beautiful blue eggs are well known to every schoolboy. It is an early breeder, fre-
quently beginning to build m the month of March. The nest is usually placed in the thickest part of the hedge-
row, and very frequently among furze and evergreens; it is generally composed of moss and wool, inter-
mingled with fine roots and slender bits of twig, with a lining of hair: the eggs are four or five in number,
of a beautiful azure blue.
We have never seen this bird in any collection made out of Europe; and, in fact, so exclusively are the
species of the genus 4ccentor confined to this portion of the world, that we have never observed more than
a single example of any species in foreign collections ; this was a new one from the Himalaya mountains.
The plumage of the sexes is so strictly similar that it is almost impossible, without actual dissection, to
distinguish the male from the female ; the former, however, has the breast of a more decided grey tint,
which feature is also more conspicuous during the spring.
The general colour of the whole upper surface is deep dusky brown, with blotches of a darker colour dis-
posed over the back ; earcoverts brown minutely dotted with white ; under surface greyish white with a few
dashes of brown on the flanks ; legs light brown; bill blackish brown
The Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
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MOUNTAIN ACCENTOR.
Accentor montanellus; /Giw,/
Lronin fron Nature ds ow Stone by Jd: f Conbd Lrontod bu ddivanaed
MOUNTAIN ACCENTOR.
Accentor montanellus, Temm.
L’Accenteur montagnard.
Tue most singular circumstance connected with the history of this little bird is, that the specimen from which
our figure was taken is the only example we have ever seen, after having visited nearly all the continental
collections.
On the authority of M. Temminck we give as its habitat the eastern portions of the middle of Europe, and
the same latitudes in Asia. He adds that it was found by Pallas in eastern Siberia and in the Crimea, and
that it is somewhat common in the Neapolitan States, in Dalmatia, and in the middle of Hungary.
The specimen above alluded to forms a part of the fine collection of the Imperial Cabinet of Natural
History at Vienna, and was killed near the river Krems in Austria, by the late Rev. M. Kratki, curate of
Mausling, in the year 1790. Before we had an opportunity of examining this “vara avis,” we were inclined to
believe it might be a variety of the common species (Accentor modularis), but we are now fully satisfied that
our suspicion was groundless, and we can safely add our testimony to its specific value: it is moreover a
typical example of the genus, and in affinity closely resembles the common Hedge Sparrow, from which it may
be readily distinguished by the conspicuous stripe of buff over the eye, and by the general tawny hue of its
under surface.
We cannot close our account of this interesting bird, without expressing our warmest thanks to the Directors
of the Imperial Cabinet of Vienna, who, solely for the promotion of science, have encountered the risk of for-
warding this valuable specimen from Vienna to London, for the purpose of enabling us to include a figure of
it in ‘* The Birds of Europe.”
Crown of the head, and a broad stripe commencing at the base of the bill and running towards the back
of the head deep brownish black; over each eye a broad and conspicuous stripe of buff; back and scapularies
reddish ash with large longitudinal dashes of reddish brown ; wings brownish ash bordered with reddish, the
tips of the greater and lesser coverts yellowish, forming a double band across the wing; tail brown; all the
under surface dull buff, varied on the breast by small dashes of brown, and on the flanks with longitudinal
spots of reddish ash; bill yellow at the base and brown at the tip ; feet brownish yellow.
Our figure is of the natural size.
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SP iN ij : pagl : if fs ee, Ng ‘i ce if a
Genus LOCUSTELLA.
Gen. Cuar. Those of Sauicarta, excepting that the beak is deeper at the base and runs more
to a point; rictus bristles rudimentary ; the hind claw longer, remarkably slender and
clean made; and the tail broader and more decidedly graduated.
REED LOCUSTELLE.
Locustella fluviatilis.
Le Bec-fin riverain.
Since we learn from M. Natterer that this bird closely assimilates to the Grasshopper Warbler, Locustella
sibvlans, in habits, manners, note, particularly in a shrill inward tone producing the effect of ventriloquism,
place of resort, food and nidification, and as, conjoined to these affinities, we find that they agree still more
closely in structural form, which differs considerably from that of the birds forming the genus Saicaria of
Selby, particularly in the lengthened hind claw and in the shape of the beak, we feel no hesitation in
assigning to these nearly allied species a distinct generic situation, under the restored title of Locustella.
The specific term of fluratilis as applied to the present bird conveys an erroneous impression, for M. Natterer
informs us that although it resorts to low situations, it nevertheless does not confine itself to reed-beds,
but rather prefers swampy coppices and thickets. It is extremely scarce in the western portion of the Euro-
pean continent ; but is plentiful in Austria and Hungary, and is very common in the island-gardens in the
Danube near Vienna.
The sexes exhibit little or no difference of plumage, nor does it appear to undergo any periodical changes.
The upper parts are olive clouded with brown; under surface lighter; the throat and breast whitish
spotted with brown ; under tail-coverts greyish white ; bill and tarsi brown.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.
aay :
Rr
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Rav
: fhe fe
BRAKE LOCUSTELLE.
Locustella avicula, (fay)
; Draven from Mature & on stone ty JEL. Contd. Lrontied by C Falircamde.
BRAKE LOCUSTELLE.
Locustella avicula, Ray.
La Bec-fin locustelle.
Tuts species, to which the modern name of Brake Locustelle has been applied, as more appropriate than
those of Grasshopper Lark and Grasshopper Warbler, by which it is known to most of our readers, is one of
the migratory birds of our island, where it arrives in the month of April, and although not an uncommon
bird, its secluded and shy disposition renders a sight of it extremely difficult, and were it not for its peculiar
and sibilant ringing cry, repeated for many minutes and producing a kind of ventriloquism, its presence would
seldom be detected. By the term Brake Locustelle our readers are at once informed of the favourite
localities to which this species gives preference, in contradistinction to its near ally the Reed Locustelle,
whose habits lead it to frequent wet and swampy situations, reed-beds, &c.
It is pretty generally distributed over our island, but becomes more scarce as we proceed northward.
Mr. Selby states that he has known it for some years past as a visitant of several low and damp situations in
Northumberland, which would appear to be its limit in that direction: according to Montagu it is also an in-
habitant of Ireland.
The nest of the Brake Locustelle is constructed among the densest bramble or furze bushes, and is so
secretly placed as to be very seldom found ; it is formed of moss and the dried stems of ladies’ bedstraw,
and greatly resembles that of the Whitethroat, but is thicker and more compact in texture: the eggs, which
are four or five in number, are pinkish grey with numerous specks of a deeper tint.
Upper surface brown, tinged with olive ; the centre of each of the feathers, except those on the rump, dusky
brown; throat white, bounded by a circle of small oval brown spots; breast and flanks pale brown tinged
with olive, fading into greenish white on the middle of the belly ; under tail-coverts greyish white with black
shafts; quills and tail dusky, margined with pale brown tinged with olive; bill brown; legs and feet pale
yellowish brown.
The sexes are not distinguishable by their plumage, further than that the male has the spots on the throat
more conspicuous. .
We have figured a male and female of the natural size.
4 7 4 av, 5 ra
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WILLOW LOCUSTELLE.
. Locustella luscinoides.
Sylvia luscinoides; (Savz:/
Dranyn from Nature & ow Stone by Sb, Contd, oo Lrintud ty C Hallmanded.
WILLOW LOCUSTELLE.
Locustelle luscinoides.
Sylvia luscinoides, Save.
Le Bec-fin des saules.
Tuts elegant little bird, the Sylvia luscinoides of Professor Savi, constitutes the third example, as far as is
hitherto known, of the restricted genus Locustel/a, of which our Grasshopper Warbler is the British represen-
tative: it is confined to the southern regions of Europe, where it appears to be very limited in the range of
its habitat. According to Professor Savi it arrives in Tuscany about the middle of April, taking refuge among
the willows, reeds, and other luxuriant plants of marshy districts, which afford it a secure retreat. It readily
admits of approach, may be seen among the lower branches near the ground, and also runs nimbly on the
earth among the reeds.
Its food consists of insects and their larvze.
The Locustella luscinoides is oue of the birds lately added to the Fauna of Europe, and we have yet to learn
all that respects its nidification and winter retreat, which we may reasonably conclude is Africa.
Head, all the upper surface, and tail reddish brown, the latter almost imperceptibly barred with lines of a
darker tint ; throat whitish; stripe over the eye, sides of the neck, and all the under surface pale buff; bill
dark brown ; feet pale brown.
Our figure is taken from a specimen kindly lent to us for the purpose, by the Directors of the Imperial
Cabinet at Vienna, and represents the bird of the natural size.
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CREEPING LOCUSTELLE.
Locustella certhiola.
;
Drawnprom Necare £ on Strme ty ThE. Gouda.
CREEPING LOCUSTELLE.
Locustella certhiola.
Sylvia certhiola, Pad.
Le Bec-fin trapu.
We beg leave to express our sincere thanks to Professor Lichtenstein, one of the Directors of the Royal
Museum of Berlin, for the obliging manner in which he has entrusted to our care the original specimen of
this rare bird, from which Pallas took his description, and which we are given to understand was mounted by
that celebrated naturalist himself. In form and general colour, and doubtless in its habits, this species strictly
belongs to the genus Locustella, from the two other species of which it may be distinguished by its larger size,
and by the greyish white termination of all its tail-feathers. Of its habits and manners no account has been
recorded, and we only know that it is found in Southern Russia, where it appears to be very scarce. We may
here remark, however, that the secluded habits of this race prevent their being observed unless they are very
closely watched, and that by the eye of one accustomed to the investigation of the manners of birds in a state
of nature.
Feathers on the crown of the head, back of the neck, back and wing-coverts olive brown tinged with red,
each feather being dark brown in the centre; primaries and tail reddish brown, the latter tipped with greyish
white ; throat white; stripe over the eye, sides of the head, and all the under surface buff, which becomes
very pale on the breast and centre of the abdomen ; bill and feet light brown.
The figure is of the natural size.
i Ms q aes f 4y . , 4 pare, t Gi ‘ 4 be te j 1. r ‘ : . ; b a
P ui aciee Aaa f . eva z ati ig eiata =t TE noes i ve 5 en tar - “ ay
a rar S ry ae rr ih beur ae Ath, Yee ned “aT oes! vy N sarin ai “7k AG) ail 2 a Vl oo) “g Ls ; 2
F | 7 fiir eoeeie, thas Bas atractics OF deere by asbebeisth Sethe ie vis erate aa! + ahd: ait “ik aR Hott iran oe
ake : utp bs | . tf ails Sie ' i ‘ hunt. 6 early wv aKort: fogtd EEE aril
ie 5 ee oA Kabab lata! wits Har * i nOy TCH jes ls pares a A verti faifenutinn fi taidelati dil, is xt
| | ae) ; ae PE a} Sink hie Mx tai " v i Rie Fit RN 1 tienen NN aii ail} of agnapet i
is sevack afk Aitynicorye Gio tevyelRbaree Tuan all iC ate Oi etal aha ge Tie Ab agGamitn ae allibn. Manges. si a ane Cee
Nahi Cesc Wel eb Other hight rane Ve ih ai TT UA Wome, Yltro, ar) Dene Mia onan
ele ich re ia a8 Hk ese that Eryey ee ily sie seb hips athe) ti8) agreinod bus ‘t ti as ain oh
: te #4 j f ak , a rh “= (it uk O f sik as » as } bys 5 ot} va ig hj ints clibev, Le cm / Bey
| ee | a ey; ; ; a : ieee
at GRR? 8 crc fi dab ik GEKE SSO OAR ie HLT sap i i
' a co baw ransrah alt cio alegre “om
. ; ads Wes ry Be alae Pee s
a
os,
.
GREAT SEDGE-WARBLER.
Salicaria turdoides (Sby/
Dron from Lit ends cn Stra ty 7b Z. Canc,
YY
Printed by C inlionended:
Genus SALICARIA, Selby.
Gen. Cuar. Bill straight, subulate, expanded at the base, with a distinct cu/men, compressed
towards the tip, which is slightly deflected and emarginated. Tomia straight, those of
the under mandible being gently inflected. Nostré/s basal, lateral, oval and exposed.
Forehead narrow and depressed. Wangs rather short; the first quill nearly abortive ; the
second just shorter than the third, which is the longest of all. Taz/ rather long and
rounded. Legs having the tarsi longer than the middle toe. eet rather large and stout ;
the hind toe large and strong. Claws moderately curved, long and very sharp, that of
the hind toe being double in size and strength to any of the others.
GREAT SEDGE WARBLER.
Salicaria turdoides, Sedby.
Le Bec-fin rousserolle.
Unver the generic title Sylvia, Dr. Latham has included all the soft-billed birds,—an immense multitude,
differing in characters and manners. This arrangement, to a certain extent, has been adopted by M. Tem-
minck, with an advance, indeed, towards those subdivisions so imperatively demanded by the laws of nature.
The first section is that termed ‘‘ Riverains,” and comprehends a tribe whose habits lead them to frequent
the borders of lakes, marshes and rivers, where the reeds and flags afford them an asylum, their food con-
sisting of such insects as abound in these situations. The birds of this section now form the genus Sadcaria
of Mr. Selby, which we concur in the propriety of thus instituting, as it is at once natural and necessary.
Of this genus the present bird may be considered a typical example; for though larger than the other species,
yet in form, habits and manners it strictly assimilates with them, frequenting the morasses of Holland in
great abundance, as also the low flat lands of France, even in the neighbourhood of Calais, though, strange to
say, it does not appear to cross the Channel to England.
The Salcaria turdoides is a delightful warbler, whence it has obtained its specific term: its notes are
hurried and chattering, like those of the Sedge Warbler, but louder, in accordance with its superior size, and
of a richer tone.
Like the rest of the genus, its food consists of gnats, the smaller Libellule, and other aquatic insects. Its
nest is situated among the stalks of the growing reeds, like that of our well-known Sedge Warbler. The eggs
are five in number, obtuse, greenish white spotted with black and ash colour.
There is no sexual difference of plumage,—a circumstance which characterizes nearly the whole of the
species belonging to this genus.
The upper surface, wings and tail, with the exception of a white stripe over the eye, of a uniform light
brown ; the under surface white delicately tinged with the same colour ; beak brown, darkest along the culmen
and at the tip ; tarsi light brown.
The Plate represents an adult of the natural size.
atived of,
a R ‘ , i 5 Fs RA
Hite 05) * Tait, TEV ESHY, AVS
ee 7
|
i v4 i
: \
: | \ . TF
¥ : ; A oath ta uns TERN
1 ‘ Pe é j i
{ 1 . ‘ i if “}. ’ #) ees |
. i? 7 ; 14 pm ;
J " i ¢ Met 3s
; - WT bite Tr vee el; “ 5 =: ; ;
| [valde oslo, ioraicbdivie vt ly adit heey gutory adr ho ellaty 46a aieananal
| ae | parila daa bua gate dre boehacuiatialse algae ‘tes Aha
ch ’ mon / SAUTEED, Bes Peer ies ae) vali lainnve: ow gl 3
ty ener ar "teh ee, Roos eid): ot ns
| ‘ t ‘ at 7 x i ii % r Te cd is ‘ik a. int ines aude y *
™ Mpeeth {J Ji } itig Loiauitoat stent
, + 4 io ba el
iy,
OLIVE-TREE SALICARIA.
Salicaria Olivetorum, (S@iwhkl/
LDrawnpron Nature 4 on Stone by S&L. Gould, Liunted by C Eudimanded.
OLIVE-TREE SALICARIA.
Salicaria Olivetorum, Strick.
For the knowledge of this new and elegant species of Warbler we are indebted to H. E. Strickland, Esq., by
whom it was discovered during the spring of 1836, in Zante, one of the Ionian Islands; and we feel assured
that this addition to the European Fauna will be viewed with considerable interest by all lovers of Ornithology,
but by.no one more than ourselves, who have for a long time entertained a belief that more new species will
yet be found to inhabit the smaller islands of the Mediterranean, particularly those in the Grecian Archi-
pelago.
From its being nearly allied to the Great Sedge Warbler, Mr. Strickland has provisionally placed this bird
in the genus Sahcaria; but it will, if we mistake not, together with two or three others, be found sufficiently
distinct from the smaller members of that genus to warrant their separation under a distinct generic title.
We have no recollection of having seen this bird in any collection either from Africa or India; which leads
us to believe that the southern parts of Europe constitute its true and native habitat. Mr. Strickland having
obliged us with some short notes on this species, we have considered it best to transcribe them here in his
own words.
*‘This bird belongs to that division of the Sadicarie in which the tail is but slightly rounded, and the
colours sombre and uniform; including the Sylva arundinacea, Lath.; S. palustris, Bechst.; S. Turdoides,
Meyer, and other foreign species.
‘*] first noticed this bird, in May, 1836, at Zante, where it is by no means rare; but from its shy and
restless habits I was only able to procure two specimens, both of which were males. One of these I gave to
M. L. Coulon of Neufchatel, and the other is in my collection. It frequents the olive-groves, and is less
aquatic in its habits than some of its congeners. Its note is a rambling warble, closely resembling that of
S. arundinacea.
‘* From the proximity of Zante to the Morea, it is probable that this bird exists there also, but it seems
hitherto to have escaped the notice of ornithologists.
‘* The male has the whole upper plumage greyish brown, with a tinge of olive; the space between the bill
and the eye lighter; primaries and secondaries dark brown, the latter edged with whitish; tail slightly
rounded, and of a dark brown, with the outer feather on each side margined all round, and the two next
slightly tipped with white; under surface greyish white becoming darker on the flanks; chest and under
tail-coverts tinged with yellow; legs and feet lead colour; beak, orange yellow at the base, darker towards
the tip; irides hazel.
Total length 6 inches ; wing, 3}; tail, 3; tarsus, 7; bill, from gape to tip, 3.”
Our figure is of the natural size.
ot whet te ) ‘gaholw ond, aif
| (ast sie: Lies: Hib be rosath: eave te aiodyn so”
Boye ten a yustt adt oF cokteletus- ant toils. prt
adrosee: yea onion au6 One tak a
o niger as {itt ot bhutan
ee | ce,
ify: bs aidie. 7 Crk Siena |
2 it 7 7 s
‘ : i iat f unto oth fid aid’ ‘ sia a
hy as Oi: eRe + etiotod.-
;
‘ cas bv ert aie 4 ce
hy Teed aides gisac fd iifiaaris ) fb SHAPE
1 OAS! sun, 220 Ant,
enies. Te Mich jsvalet a AMO wigisor pact este * a is “
eae 5 ie ad omadid a
biel Sets atl a5) i a9. stods, ott ‘eet, ohatee ool a res
. 4 ite tint -s dee +i aah ymites | |
: (ve oeatoats: has Bea et fii fia Fic
tabag? Gees 2eGtho: 7A Hucigd site eivery sanlive oa $f i
. alinwot todiab dead » <ihiod: ¢4udlon baal teat fen aga. ev By
CE OF aati weak Mid TE eee Ee Te ed “4 agit
Drawn prom Nature & on stone by J kL, Coutd:
REED WARBLER.
Salicaria arundinacea, /5el¢./
Printed by CBallmanddl
REED WREN.
Salicaria arundinacea, Se/by.
Le Bec-fin des Roseaux, ou Efarvatte.
Tuis species, which is by no means uncommon in the British Islands, is, notwithstanding, much more local
in its habits than its near ally the Sedge Warbler (Sadcaria phragmitis, Selby), from which it may at all
times be distinguished by its larger size, and by the uniform tints which pervade the upper surface. It bears
a striking resemblance in most of its habits and manners to the species alluded to above, arriving in the
British Islands at the same period, which is generally in the third week in April, when it retires to thick
reed-beds, plantations of osiers, and: the swampy borders of rivers. Its note, which is varied and pleasing, is
not so harsh as that of the Sedge Warbler, but is delivered in the same kind of hurried and rapid manner.
It also offers a little difference in its nidification, constructing a deep upright nest of the seed-tops of reeds
and long grass, lined with the finer parts of the former, and which is almost invariably attached to the stems
of several reeds, which are so intertwined as to form a firm support. The eggs are four or five in number,
of a greenish white, spotted and blotched with brown and dull green.
On the Continent it appears to be universally spread in all the temperate latitudes wherever extensive
lowlands covered with aquatic herbage afford it a shelter.
Its food consists of aquatic flies and their larvee.
This species is very abundant in Holland, and is also found in some parts of France: and Germany, but is
still more rare in the South of Europe.
The whole of the upper surface is of a dull green with a tinge of brown, the edges of the quills being
paler; throat, breast, and belly yellowish white, of a deeper tint upon the breast and flanks; between the
mouth and the eyes a pale streak ; eyelids pale yellowish white; legs dusky brown; bill pale brown.
We have figured a male and female of the natural size.
aa va r oa
id ir. i i
RS
He SYAIREIPS TI
br
Sancina palustris,
&
bod bi C Hed re
MARSH WARBLER.
Salicaria palustris.
Le Bec-fin verderolle.
In its general contour this little bird so closely assimilates to the Sehcaria hirundinacea, that it would be
impossible from the simple examination of preserved specimens to discover that they are specifically distinct :
in their habits and manners and in the places to which they resort they are also very similar; but the yellow
lining of the mouth, the enlarged size of the bill, and the greener tint of the plumage, are points by which
the Marsh Warbler may at all times be distinguished from its near ally. <‘‘ Another characteristic of this
species,” says M. Temminck, “is its song, which is singularly varied ; it has also considerable powers of
mimicry, and readily imitates the song of other birds most completely, particularly that of Sylvia hippolais, as
well as the notes of Charadrius mmor, and the piercing cry of the Hematopus ostralegus.”
It generally inhabits humid and marshy situations in the neighbourhood of water, bordered with willows
and reed-beds, but is also frequently observed perched upon the high stems of hemp and bushes. It is
common in all the middle parts of Europe, and is abundant on the banks of the Po and the Danube, and also
in some parts of Switzerland, Germany, and Holland.
The nest is constructed with much art, is of a spherical form, and is placed on the ground among the roots
of willows, reeds, and bushes; the eggs are four or five in number, of a clear ash, covered with spots of a
bluish ash.
Its food consists of insects and small berries.
Crown of the head, all the upper surface, wing-coverts, secondaries, and tail greenish olive; primaries
blackish brown ; stripe over the eye, throat, and all the under surface yellowish olive ; bill yellow at the base,
black at the tip; feet lead colour. :
We have figured an adult of the natural size.
tae |
' ; itp Site Ghee eed bs hae a ; Fe
Y Py ee ‘ /
: fay ke Biever ash weer
4 : bey Os j tayte ES et ¢) i ‘w pines ‘
ai ‘ i ‘j i any
. 4 b ' + 1
Sinan
i wi Ps nated bola
, i ,, ) .
TON tet : f { ley Deeb ee ue adit athe
h (ay gett Vy as fa i . a i
: : .
: j i i port ce vel ; 2 7
} , ; P
: f acank Ves oinista yh doe rece AN PNET
i ‘ ' yest rk ; :
‘ » RE FOL et BA i : aly RE? i
: net e hie.
4 2 , fies ay ft 7 . ss : ‘ His : Aes 4
y . Fok a ee 3 i ate ay a '
rey ape F Ee '} gir i 3 ‘ ab ' ;
t ‘ a ;
‘ ‘1 sa
, i 26. alanios beat.e ahead
; ; i ; - fe att ela ili Sona F Ry bee at
ke baiiwstrrn: {ht ¢ et Seite? RLY 2 4 iy ails uss basil iis 20) award Oar.
fae P Peay) eae / Peat yO ’ ; ft soe
pide aillo ikivoller sopkiia voli: att My. fas Jeoudly nis 9dr 198 aqiiia: éawotd detdantt |
\ r ys r es + qh pat “per
: f auulos: aol iaot'"2 qi oth Ti oulek
. : \ : ath . it!
: - fate Sd eagle et MOF nate
. atta nf) Todtule ne orwell odad te ai
‘: , : ; i fei : ‘ ur oleae play se
Aig)
VIG
SEDGE WARBLER. | q
Salicaria Phragmius. (Saby /.
Drown from Natare & on Stone by J BE. Conbd. : Lrinted by C Hudimanded.
SEDGE WARBLER.
Salicaria Phragmitis, Sedby.
Le Bec-fin Phragmite.
Tur Sedge Warbler may be distinguished from its near ally the Sakcarta arundinacea by the conspicuous
stripe which passes over the eye, by its smaller size, and by the less uniform style of colouring which pervades
the back and upper surface.
The habits and manners of the two species are so strictly similar as regards the situations they inhabit,
and every other particular, that the inexperienced naturalist would be in doubt as to which of them was before
him. The bird here figured is by far the most numerous and widely distributed : arriving in the British
Islands early in spring, it retires to marshes, banks of rivers, ponds, and lakes, where the luxuriant foliage
abounding in such situations affords it a retreat at once secure and in direct unison with its habits. It soon
commences the task of nidification by constructing a nest of coarse grasses, intermingled with moss on the
outer side, while a lining of finer grasses completes the inner: the eggs are five or six in number, of a pale
grey blotched all over with pale brown. The situation of the nest varies considerably, being often placed
among the reeds which border the water, while at other times it is situated on the overhanging branches of
the willow; and it not unfrequently happens that wet ditches, concealed by thick brambles, afford the Sedge
Warbler a secure asylum, in which case the nest is placed in the centre of the thick herbage. In its disposi-
tion this bird is restless and noisy: its song is a confused strain, which is poured forth both night and day.
It displays great powers of mimickry ; among its notes may be distinguished those of the lark, the nightingale,
sparrow, and linnet, jumbled together in a hurried babble: its varied song is uttered with greater vehemence
when disturbed or irritated. Being somewhat secluded in its habits, it is not so frequently seen as heard.
During its residence with us it seldom flies further than from bush to bush, or from one reed-bed to another ;
yet the power of extended flight has not been withheld from this little warbler, for as soon as its insect food
diminishes, and the herbage which has afforded it shelter during the summer undergoes the least decay,
the sedge bird is directed by the impulse of nature to seek its subsistence in countries of a warmer latitude,
where it may still find an abundant supply.
The Sedge Warbler is found throughout the British Islands, as well as in nearly every portion of the Conti-
nent, being especially abundant in France, Germany, and Holland.
The sexes offer no differences in the plumage, and the young assume the adult colouring from the nest.
The top of the head is deep brown; above the eye is situated a distinct yellowish white stripe ; back and
wings olive brown, the centres of the feathers being darker ; rump and upper tail-coverts yellowish brown ;
throat white ; whole of the under surface yellowish white, becoming stronger on the flanks ; primaries and
tail-feathers brown; bill and legs brown.
The Plate represents a male, of the natural size.
‘ ™
i
Mahi‘)
ae
en hia.
rns tie}! |
hi ake Nise
ane ie
ith
1.MOUSTACHED WAR]
Salicaria Melanopogon.
Drown / from Nadare & on stone by J & LE. Goubd,
BLER.
2, AQUATIC WARBLER.
Salicania aquatica.
Printed by C Lerdimandel.
MOUSTACHED WARBLER.
Salicaria melanopogon.
La Bec-fin 4 moustaches noires.
Turis little warbler, now so common in European collections, appears to have been unknown to M. Temminck
when he published the second edition of his ‘Manuel’ in 1820; subsequently, however, he gave a figure of
the adult male in the ‘Planches Coloriées’, 245. fig. 2. and has given a description in the third part of his
‘Manuel’, which appeared in April 1835.
From the little information acquired respecting this bird, it would appear to be principally an inhabitant of
the Roman States, where M. Cantraine informs us it is abundant in the marshes among the Arundo speciosa :
‘* J have killed it n November near Rumbla, in the circle of Ragusa, at Ostia, and near the lake of Castiglione,
where it is very common; it is always in the marshes, and in the thickets that border them, clinging to the
rushes and uttering a very loud cry; it descends to the surface of the water and walks upon the aquatic plants.”
From this account of M. Cantraine we gather sufficient information to satisfy us that in its general habits and
economy the Moustached Warbler strictly resembles those members of the genus Salicaria that inhabit our
island.
Of its nidification nothing is known.
Its food consists of small coleopterous insects.
The sexes offer no perceptible difference in the markings of their plumage.
The top of the head and all the upper surface is of a dark brown, with a slight tinge of reddish brown,
particularly on the margins of the wing-feathers, and a black mark down the centre of each of the feathers
on the back; a greyish white stripe passes from the bill over the eye and extends to the posterior part of the
head, below this is a conspicuous band of dark brown, which passes through the eye and over the ear-coverts ;
throat and under-surface greyish-white, becoming brown on the flanks and sides of the chest; bill black at the
tip and yellow at the base; legs and feet brown ; irides yellow.
The upper figure in our Plate represents an adult male of the natural size.
AQUATIC WARBLER.
Salicaria aquatica.
La Bec-fin aquatique.
Iraty and the eastern portions of the Continent appear to be the true habitat of this species, which, although
differing considerably in its markings and colour from the Moustached Warbler, resembles it in many
particulars ; like that it is also a marsh bird and dwells among the thick reed-beds that border the sides of
rivers. It is very abundant in Italy and Piedmont; it sometimes extends its visits to France and Germany,
and, but very rarely, to Holland.
The nest is artfully constructed among the stems of aquatic plants, and the eggs are four or five in
number, of a yellowish ash colour marked with very fine spots of greyish olive.
The sexes are alike in plumage.
A band of yellowish white passes over each eye and a stripe of the same colour down the centre of the head ;
the intermediate spaces dark brown ; sides of the neck, scapularies, and all the upper surface yellowish brown
with large, longitudinal dark brown spots; wings and tail dark brown, each feather in the former strongly
edged with yellowish brown; ear-coverts brown ; throat and all the under surface of a light fawn colour, which
is somewhat darker on the flanks ; feet and legs pale brown; bill dark brown at the tip, yellowish at the base.
The lower figure represents this bird of the natural size.
; z eval fF
af. & fe ‘fi "5 af y
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‘ _ 7
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i
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.
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.
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: ‘ | ‘
.
.
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— s > . j , ‘ t. ae rh rit don ree
2 ‘ a | a 7 : i
Sai | ° |
. » . es : ‘ ; Papi a: ,
‘
ek b y
JS Lek i. i f phy ae iy q na k ; ti a cise 2 ha reeds ib wile
Pes i
Ao pe ath Me "gator Tina
ue
\
bgt the | Tish Soocenelle3 ei rcs
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ee
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a wn,
’ ret
RUFOUS SEDGE WARBLER.
Salicaria galactotes ;/MAz/
Drenn from Nature he om Stine by ThE, boukd, - Printed by b Bedominddl
RUFOUS SEDGE WARBLER.
Salicaria galactotes, Mzhi.
Accorpine to M. Temminck, the introduction of this lovely species to the fauna of Europe is due to
M. Natterer of Vienna, whose researches have conferred so much honour on himself and benefit to science
at large.
Although we possess several fine specimens of this rare species, still, from the want of an intimate know-
ledge of it, we are yet in doubt as to the true situation it ought to occupy m a scientific arrangement. From
a careful examination of the specimens in our possession, in comparison with the birds of M. Temminck’s
section denominated Bec-fins riverains, which have been formed by Mr. Selby into the genus Salcarza, we are
led to assign it to that group; at the same time, we suspect that it may hereafter be found to form an
intermediate link between the genus Sa/icarta and an allied group, the species of which, instead of inhabiting
reed-beds and swampy situations, frequent the tall grasses of dry and sandy places, and of which the Sylva
cisticola is an example. On referring to the work of our valued friend M. 'Temminck, we find him expressing
the same doubts respecting this bird which we ourselves entertain ; his words are, ‘‘I know not whether this
species inhabits reed-beds and the borders of waters: I have therefore arranged it provisionally in this section ;
fof the knowledge alone of its manners and its habits can determine truly the place to which it should be
assigned, whether in the section of Riverains or, on the contrary, of Sy/vams.”
The Rufous Sedge Warbler is a native of the southern provinces of Spain, and probably also of the opposite
shores of Africa. M. Natterer discovered it at Gibraltar, and killed two pairs at Algesiras.
The general plumage of the upper surface is lively rufous ; the tail-feathers being tipped with white, above
which is a larger spot or bar of deep black; the quill-feathers are light brown ; a brown band goes from the
beak to the eye, and a white superciliary line passes over the eye; the under surface is dull yellowish white,
becoming reddish on the flanks ; tarsi yellowish ; beak brown ; irides hazel.
We have figured an adult bird of the natural size.
oe Oe BY
oho. eittpatee
i oe
ene
aaenaneretienentenemenst ge
gee
a
ea
AS
aoa)
ane
Oo
a
pee
q
ee
Printed by CHidmandal
Dron frony Nature do Somerby Tk 2, Guta
FANTAIL WARBLER.
Salicaria cisticola, Mhz.
Le Bec-fin cisticole.
Nor having had personal opportunity of inspecting the habits and manners of this interesting little bird in a
state of nature, we are unable to say whether it should form the type of a new genus, or whether it really
belongs to that of Sakcaria, in which we have provisionally placed it; at all events it cannot be far removed
from that genus. It is a species which makes the southern and eastern portions of Europe, together with
the adjoining parts of Asia and Africa, its habitat. It is generally distributed along the shores of the
Mediterranean from Gibraltar to Constantinople ; is common in the Greek islands and the adjacent mainlands,
and is also found in Italy and Sicily. It frequents low and swampy places covered with tall grasses, and, like
the Reed Wren, constructs a nest preeminently curious and beautiful, excelled by none of a similar character.
Although incapable, from its small size, of entwining the larger reeds, it avails itself of the tall blades and
stalks of grass, among which it places its nest; these it does not draw together in the manner of the
Reed Wren, but by piercing each blade, and drawing the whole together by means of cottony threads,
secured at each perforation with a knot so ingeniously executed as to appear the work of reason. Between
the grasses thus secured it places the body of the nest, which is composed of vegetable fibres lined with
a kind of flocculent down, collected from various plants. The eggs are four or five in number, and are said
to be of a bluish flesh colour. Dr. Latham is our authority for asserting that it is found in the neigh-
bourhood of Gibraltar, everywhere darting about with vast alacrity among the bushes. When disturbed
it takes long flights, chirping all the way with a remarkably loud and shrill note, and when in motion it
erects the tail and spreads it in a circle, which appears very beautiful; hence the very appropriate name of
Fantail.
The male and female are so nearly alike in colour as to require no separate description; the tail of the
male, however, is somewhat the more elongated of the two.
The whole of the upper surface is brown, each feather having a dark centre so disposed as to produce a
multitude of longitudinal dashes; the whole of the under surface is brownish white ; tail graduated, all the
outer feathers having a black spot near the extremity; the tip being white; beak and tarsi light brown.
The Plate represents an adult bird in its perfect plumage, together with a nest, of the natural size.
i TVA
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: : ees } ate’ Tank f ie ie ae F :
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4 Fad ; vi d 4 Bt, Ag ee fae) eRe A ND ORE ' ioe
d ‘ 2 : / i
= : ae ; , * ‘ hh
H ; ihe a ee ia Be areas “eRe
| i t . ; ‘ fl "
f a} cH 3 ai . Fol |. id: ee kis $i ar} 7 fed en 1 a ilve tne 3 : te Fi
- bart Wen) 7) he me nSaaehabaiigs 33
: et ed ee ae fs a pelt tem
‘ ae 3 i 2 WAtHNE. TeThTRG Meee TARE fet ags at ir a a in iff ae the S Bt RL ip
Lise fy-s evarae rere Peer ets. ee ne ia { = rhe n
. f ee re ty MC hye shies Tut Bt nmol nM: ws
F 4 * . 7
‘>
4
a
=
YN
CETTI WARBLER.
Sylvia Cetn, (Marm-/
Drow U fram Nature & on stone by J&£. Govbd.
Printed ty € Helimanie
CETTI WARBLER.
Salicaria? Cetti.
La Bec-fin bouscarle, ou Cetti.
We have not been able satisfactorily to determine the true situation of this curious little Warbler: in its
general contour and also in its actions, it strongly resembles the species of the genus Zroglodytes, or true
Wrens, while at the same time it possesses many characters that ally it to the Reedlings, Sadicarie, among
which we have provisionally placed it. M.'Temminck states in his Manuel that it has been killed in England ;
but on this pomt we fear that this eminent naturalist must have been misinformed, as we ourselves have
never been able to ascertain the existence of any authenticated British-killed specimen. We are inclined to
consider this bird as strictly a native of the southern and eastern portions of the European continent and
the northern regions of Africa. M. Cantraine informs us that he has found it in the marshes of Ostia, on the
borders of the Lake Castiglione, and in the neighbourhood of Rome generally. It is abundant in Sicily, and
Professor Savi states that it is a common species in Tuscany, where it breeds, building in large thickets near
the ground: the nest is composed of the leaves and stems of dried grasses, and the eggs are of a reddish
brown without spots.
The sexes appear to be perfectly similar in the colouring of their plumage, which may be briefly described.
All the upper surface of a deep rich brown, passing into blackish brown on the quills and tail-feathers ; an
obscure line of greyish white over each eye ; throat and under surface greyish white, with a tinge of brown
on the flanks; beak and feet brown.
The Plate represents two adults of the natural size.
é ét ar 23 SKnih anatrd ath Wi cy ound aad Hinigidas: nga tetera a ee:
; | sii a "a a . ae Pi hind “nosis Frain
| ; Eee HUiee yer 12 silt seid ih 1h ofthe ani: oo ae ae
ub s : inte late Soatanie tt ME AG Fypeanteg offi aiding pened Su Bolte As de
ae a ‘4 pa lite | ; wertyer Sailer thik: Hes alt. dallh, aed A Fei ji Ng aid na, tet a i
di SA pre ineie) Hilt dachetthh Nastia tse? Wily Teh Wenabtetinn Guth Olena dd lds stoout wei, ‘
. é Diss 4 180% \y i if hi an “ind wt fedi4s Pee POTS sith, Te ‘ae vit Fy po late. at rae aft anliiantens
; EY ich Viv cofersin sat ot de eid ak are GY ATF acne fel ME" seit A, Wi al uot eva fede alt’
€ Hf sa * ; af't iene nal We Treacevire ig} soy aK att fyi, onions rst wit *e wasbnont : ; is |
we etal int dt yiethiniid jabaak He, ies wt rissa D ata ‘nde eA wb 7h Jadh anges bea hh dunia ais
' Haitlios ss: hex 9 fi ot Drie? pared hnrily, ta: ts : ob ode Te ii ei MLL ak tHe aiid > hajlakig alt « ,
| : ; _ eloqa doadien nerd, nie
: fenhina ii rarer 4 peut “fer Peg zit | ie te I hy Wate iebe tls i b Wali Shey on a “apy BAe out! ! yaa om i
. fc geek) Gan allings oh wo inwurd dental’ ota anineep unrd dary qauty & Ia anata Tvngeptth Sel EA: + :
mao tp oyni} u dite ystide defgotg yabine taba, ben tact 2949 Coup <490 ote laveery Vol aul Gauaed)
. ae & a “aevtord ‘aot bas dAnad, paditalk atl sean )
i pi hee asta foadinn ott te atliba ows etnaestdot othe aD ter
2 ' ¥ 4 : ; Wee ne a ae
;
: ; :
“= "9
*, nat
een i
‘ a : taka he
7
7
wee
aaa
re
al
ey
—
out
SILKY WARBLER.
Sahearia? sericea.
Sylvia sericea; (WVait/
Drew from Natwre be on Stone by Jé £ Gouda Linted by C Hadlmanded.
SILKY WARBLER.
Salicaria? sericea.
Sylvia sericea, Natt.
Le Bec-fin soyeux.
_ We have been favoured with the original specimen of this rare bird by our respected friend M. Natterer, who
procured it himself on the 17th of April, 1817, ‘‘ near Santa Anna, upon the river Brenta, two miles from
Chioggia, where it inhabits the low bushes bordering the ditches between the vineyards near the Brenta; and
has a loud and tolerably fine song.”
This bird is very closely allied to the Cetti Warbler, and with that species will, we conceive, constitute a
minor division among the ‘ Riveraims” of M. Temminck; but as we have already figured the Cetti Warbler
under the generic appellation of Sa/caria, we refrain from entering into any further details on the subject.
The most striking differences which these birds exhibit when compared with the true Sakcarie, consist in
the total absence of the stiff hairs at the base of the bill; in the more rounded form of the head; in the
thicker and more silky plumage, and in the more rounded wing, the primaries of which are soft and yielding.
The general contour of the Cetti Warbler, together with its slender bill, immediately reminds us of the true
Wrens (Troglodytes) ; not that we have any reason to believe these groups are joined by affinity, although,
particularly in the position in which we have figured it, the Cetti Warbler is remarkably Wren-like, but as
we have not seen this bird in a state of nature, we are unable to say anything eke on the subject.
Of its habits, manners, nidification, and eggs nothing is known.
All the upper surface, wings, and tail greyish brown ; stripe over the eye, throat, breast, and centre of the
abdomen pure white; sides of the face, flanks, and under tail-coverts brownish ash ; upper mandible dark
brown ; under mandible and legs flesh colour; irides dark brown.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.
if ‘ ‘i :
Braye)
aot
NIGHTINGALE.
Pinlomela lusania, (Swacns.:/
Drown from Nekwre hon Stone by J ble. Coad Printed by C Felimoandel,
Genus PHILOMELA, Swains.
Gen. Cuar. Bill of mean length, straight; culmen rounded; tip of the upper mandible
| slightly deflected and emarginated ; lower mandible as strong as the upper; gape smooth.
Nostrils basal, lateral, round, pierced in a large membrane. Wings of mean length; first
quill very short ; second of the same length as the fifth; third and fourth nearly equal
and the longest. Taz/ slightly rounded. Tarsi long. Feet adapted for perching, and
also for hopping upon the ground. Claws moderately curved and very sharp.
NIGHTINGALE.
Philomela luscinia, Swazns.
Le Rossignol.
In our notice of this exquisite songster, which has been the theme of poets in every age, we shall confine
ourselves rather to details connected with its habits and the localities it prefers in our own island, its migra-
tion, &c., than to the merits of its vocal powers or to indulging in strains of useless admiration.
So much attention has been lately paid by Mr. Blyth to the migration and localities frequented by this
species, that we consider it only our duty to refer our readers to that gentleman’s paper on the subject pub-
lished in the 15th and 16th Nos. of the Analyst, which will require but little addition of our own to render
the matter clear to every one.
In our island it appears to be confined to particular districts ; it is plentiful in the southern and eastern
counties, while Devonshire appears to be its limit westward, and Doncaster in Yorkshire in a northern di-
rection, few if any authenticated instances being on record of its occurrence beyond that town, which is
the more singular as Nightingales are common in Sweden and other countries situated further north than
England.
Our own observation respecting the migrations of the Nightingale is, that after leaving our island it pro-
ceeds to the opposite shores of the Continent, and gradually makes its way southwards until it arrives in
Africa, which is its ultimate resting-place during our winter months. We have ourselves received specimens
killed in the northern districts of Africa, but have never obtained any from the central or southern parts
of that portion of the globe; it would appear therefore that its distribution over that vast continent is com-
paratively limited. In no part of Europe is it more abundant than in Spain and Italy; from whence however,
equally as from our own, it regularly migrates on the approach of winter.
The Nightingale is exceedingly shy in its habits; and inhabiting low and swampy coppices, close thickets,
hedges, and similar situations, it is seldom seen, its retreat being only discovered by means of its peculiar
call-note and its song, which for richness and power is unrivalled until he is mated, but as soon as this takes
place his notes are only poured forth at intervals and entirely cease previous to migration, when the sexes
separate, and the males precede the females by ten days or a fortnight.
The nest is placed on the ground or on a low stump, and is constructed of withered leaves, sometimes lined
with dry grass: the eggs, which are of a plain yellowish brown, are from four to six in number. The young
appear to be principally fed with small green caterpillars, ‘in all probability the larvee of some moth, or
perhaps of a Zenthredo, peculiar to some localities.”
The food of the adult consists of insects and their larvee, berries, and fruit.
The sexes are alike in plumage, and may be thus described :
All the upper surface deep rich brown ; rump and tail reddish brown; throat and middle of the belly
greyish white ; sides of the neck, breast, and flanks grey ; bill and legs light brown.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.
Hie Priveethabi be. 24
‘ de i |
| a
HAWITILE
i j
Niet
b
a®
THRUSH NIGHTINGALE.
Philomela turdoides ; (AlycZ./
Loan, from Nature bon stenely Tb B. Could, Printed. by C Fellmanddd.
ie THRUSH NIGHTINGALE.
Philomela Turdoides, Blyth.
La Bec-fin Philoméle. -
Iv adopting Mr. Blyth’s specific term for this bird, we have been influenced by the desire of paying a just
compliment to a young and ardent naturalist, who has taken much pains in elucidating the habits of this, as
well as of many other groups in ornithology. “This bird,” says he ‘“ may be said to connect our Common
Nightingale with the Tawny Thrush, or more immediately, perhaps, the Tiny Thrush (JZ. parva). It is
described by Bechstein to have ‘ the whole plumage generally, and in all parts, deeper and darker than the
common species. The head is larger and the beak thicker; the throat white bordered with black; the
breast brown, with darker spots ;? and it is said, also, to be considerably larger, and longer by about an inch
and a half. It is a very loud songster, and sings chiefly by night, but its voice is by no means so melodious as
that of the Common Nightingale. ‘It has,’ continues Bechstein, ‘a much stronger, louder, and deeper voice,
but it sings more slowly and more unconnectedly ; it has not that astonishing variety, those charming protrac-
tions and harmonious conclusions of the Common Nightingale; it mutilates all its strains, and on this account
its song has been compared to that of the Missel Thrush, to which however it is superior both in softness and
purity. The Common Nightingale is superior in delicacy and variety, but inferior in force and strength,
while the voice of the larger species is so loud, that it is almost impossible to bear with it in a room.’ Its
call-note, &c., as described by the same author, is also very different. ‘In cages,’ observes Bechstein, ‘ they
are fed like Nightingales, but are less delicate, and generally live much longer ;’ which, in fact, is another
approximation to the Thrushes.” -And this approximation, we may add, is still further indicated by the
spots on the breast.
The habitat of the Thrush Nightingale extends over Silesia, Bohemia, Pomerania, Franconia, and other
parts of Germany ; it is said to be more abundant than the common species in Hungary, Austria, and Poland ;
more rare in France, and never seen in Holland. It is generally found in woods situated on the tops of hills,
and also in plains, particularly those in the neighbourhood of running streams.
Like the common species it feeds upon worms, flies, moths, currants, elderberries, &c. ; the nest is also
built in small thickets, but more frequently placed in low and damp situations ; the eggs, which are larger
than those of the Nightingale, are brownish olive stained with deep brown.
The sexes do not differ in the colouring of their plumage, which may be thus described :
All the upper surface brown ; tail rich brownish red; throat whitish; breast clear greyish brown with
dashes of dark grey ; under surface whitish ash; bill brown; legs brownish flesh-colour.
Our figure is of the natural size.
; : i Prete i
oe eal ah a { hah fists a a
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: , ‘ } r Ly =o. i v. Bo ig a Bee ae ony)
i ’ eve sere’, SNE, ohio TR Meads Oo Ba} alien
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a t Pe pe ay
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Eas to ye At ae ee yt? ee Re Meee RS! a AOARS ER ere Hye atthe
’ eqeeret opine HG fa:? ‘i
f ' a ted aaa rons
7 4 “ jem i pee
ie PALL eM i tnd (open. iti Ke
bitate | , ee ed |. WE} hy ‘ Ms
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: . F ve bee dfemyat gut. Ce Te edhe aba PET GA:
Oe are
“i ee
GORGE T WAIRBILIEIR.
Calhope Lathamn.
S roam fran Nedave bon stone by JL bikd: tinted by ULM,
Genus CALLIOPE.
Gren. Cuar. Bill shorter than the head, straight, compressed. laterally and pointed, with a
slight indication of a notch near the tip of the upper mandible: base of the bill garnished
with a few fine and short bristles. Mostrils basal and oval. Wings rather short and
rounded, the first quill very short, the third and fourth the longest. Tal short and
rounded. ars? long and slender, the hinder toe furnished with a large strong claw.
GORGET WARBLER.
Calliope Lathamii.
La Calliope.
Amone the subdivisions into which the Sy/iade are now distributed, we do not find one to which we can
strictly refer the present beautiful bird; we have therefore ventured to form a new genus for its reception,
taking the specific appellation of Pallas for its generic designation. We cannot perceive its immediate rela-
tionship to the Accentors, to which M. Temminck has referred it: both Gmelin and Latham have consi-
dered it to be a Thrush (Zurdus) ; but although not ranging with any established genus of that family, its
form is very similar to some of the smaller species of that group. In the silky character of its plumage, in
the presence of the gorget, and in the great difference between the sexes, it evinces a close affinity to the
Blue-throated Warbler (Phenicura Suecica), but in its general form and contour it approximates to the
Nightingale (Philomela Luscinia), to which we consider it to be most nearly allied.
In naming this species after the venerable Dr. Latham, we are influenced by a desire to render a tribute of
respect to one who has laboured much in the science of ornithology, and who at an extremely advanced age
is now cheerfully passing the remainder of his days in the enjoyment of every domestic felicity, universally
honoured by all his contemporaries.
Although the Gorget Warbler has in a few instances been taken within the precincts of Europe, its true
habitat is the north-eastern portions of Asia, being a native of Siberia, Kamtschatka, and the island of Japan.
Of its nidification and general economy we know but little: it is said to have an agreeable song, which it
utters while perched on the topmost branches of trees.
The male has the whole of the upper surface of a uniform olive brown ; over the eye a clear stripe of
white; a black space between the beak and the eye; a white moustache beneath the eye; from the base of
the under mandible a gorget of fine scarlet spreads over the throat ; chest greyish brown ; flanks brown ;
abdomen whitish ; bill blackish brown ; feet light fleshy brown.
The female differs from the male in wanting the black space between the bill and the eye, in the absence of
the white moustache, and in being destitute of the beautiful gorget.
The Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
HORAN y iF
; a, dibve 6 i CT r On Mi Ce boinv * Me te + i ‘tit Peer °
AS is ‘gy litt act] ti tah sett univ 4 Pali: th Ra a site ein Monti ry Ww iia i}
bow 1 Wnts agientey a be! re “Rae Tage “aM Wate a Maathagicl, dial (vier agit wail fi ing t
os Tyan teode Gall = \ erage sit ig Wbayok: b bat haley Ve {i ace eit att ibabiegere
by yreneyn he Saget a sleet fiaalacenn a) “fal itn wih uti) nl Ha r raul RCN: ;
- | fi e =
| eS AE SO ae
‘ Hi wie
2 ; ae 7 reel { ty “at iY ; oA
na
alt i a
MOM Tt em ae ae
Fisiahord siibeygle hn oe gle Nilbteinad Seilaaltage 0 Zara Ny
‘ , : ; " friodl 7 dens wi riigens '
: i f fi i * teal : Tithe | nee te ty tieile y :
} ian TG Ae p ’ i | ee st 4 i AP LT) a ‘i pliant ; u
wal wap lesa yn, { wh, Vie eyee. et ; *
' te en ae Aaa x \ vagy te Pea tes aan IT Fi
daciie Ste AN teat 5 rk ARTA BUG wistvale a Me sie a Ae |
; , aig rhe bette iy patie 3 : ark y at re} sie “af HV be TALS Aaa fh
x 2 het zr a lacie Airis} 4 ; erie ald’ Het ‘i aiden sh Roh 4 Fe aiyt 0h DO6GRet
: j wn i Ta 4 yd, Saul ald WHY Ateaty fan's ity ed ves Vent af
Poe Aisa : one | Ui pm Wthis cn ‘} ail. Gh el ‘Tyee java
eet re awed ; bel ota ake. eb ety ees is 1 : nat) ee.
, st ealyml ante: cel pee Dee A: a At pba Fe the eneyi 7 Tay faeain op eRe
' i ris pee / : 1 sletit} Clie li ising, Ri ee “‘dolautthin, ii We
: \ o
i inaititg ye ad) hoe eR whiter eit
Pals ak. aneiind HA cue dts fe aici aly Yar ‘glanche? eel ag. crs ay
fs avo att eek Pitan asi i ues uth Gilt lite a es pees rine saat we
if raid amir Ty me LL 3 jesile! 2 aie we vane althaniat agree suai, acs ene ¥ seta alee ofa ae a 7
, Niet: | : fad. gbmi “dels pe crrneee th aie
: ~~ 4 fy net ties ele Tt aut, never k andi Ajab ait Datta Mane “ale cough ll ain ll ee ao
wer {ianatadieraeh, oh 8 tee Sheet esi salt ‘at wail mans 6 wes: :
aA Seay nt hie ty ale i ust ba baal F it sat) Bay athe Aug
ales Ae
—
ORPHEUS WAR BILIER.
Curruca Orphea: 41747
LDravn from Netare don Stein tuo &
ON
ORPHEUS WARBLER.
Curruca Orphea, Mzhz.
Bec-fin Orphée.
AttHoucH the present species differs in a trifling degree from the more typical examples of the genus
Curruca, especially in having a stouter form of beak, which is more deep than wide, we do not feel ourselves
at liberty to separate it on such slender grounds, as its general habits and form overbalance the minutiz
alluded to.
The Orpheus Warbler is an inhabitant of the southern provinces of Europe, and we have more than once
received it in collections from India. According to M. Temminck, it is very abundant in Italy, particularly
in Piedmont and Lombardy, and the southern departments of France. It is accidentally met with in
Switzerland and the adjacent districts, but never occurs in more northern latitudes. On referring to the
valuable little work of Professor Savi on the Ornithology of Tuscany, we learn that it is there a migratory
bird, and much resembles in habits and manners the Common Whitethroat (Curruca cinerea, Bechst.). Its
food consists of insects and berries, and it builds in bushes often in company with others of the same species.
M. Temminck states, that in addition to bushes it also selects holes in ruins, old walls, or under the eaves of
isolated buildings, as a site for incubation. The eggs are four or five in number, nearly white, irregularly
marked with yellowish blotches and small brown dots.
The male has the top of the head and ear-coverts brownish black ; the whole of the upper surface is of a
cinereous brown, with a tinge of olive, the quills and tail being rather darker ; the outer feathers on each
side of the latter are white, tinged with reddish brown, which prevails more decidedly on the flanks and
under tail-coverts.
The female resembles the male, except that the head is of the same colour as the rest of the plumage.
Our Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
AGW, SHA } Rte ch ett t Oh Pe c i *
"ie aa ‘ Ap, PL Pee ai eS
; ; PAT ae |
‘ m wy
‘ , hy oy Sreridie i fie ‘welt g : ine ie fees SLE ery Ph ; ery nyt oneal .
i ie r t : ] ayy faye f ‘ i eee. dare a web ried. tet Yitviatn pes marca hl
—y , bid jaan ah ae alk bi pebtehatie. ASH, ed 16 adierec re) Cheah: Ip
; mes Lepfecat hs
yy uaek Ave , RW doa i (Paresbhehorksagel ie Wy Seabee! Pwo ee Where q scant rt atl
Y ff B : na mar"
: ¥ } male th servants ei te
a ; Ay oe! Sree tres
q ‘ japtoh ; imi shia
i ,, Gacety attitai 4 ; { ci at” iyoel
fun be eedetrn bye. cl taht oretaler Aqsa ae
) w : rte ad) ie ‘am Tinta 4a. M ty ee i T 1% The) ce ee ek i iaet | ysadle is
‘ ; " <widbettel epanutlae hla fy dgane
“ ape, P nS olvin , rr ' ' hd apie si * At Spaneiy fi Puce} 3 ph [uw oni 341 std vets’ ofS" 3
‘ 2 fie ite? anise tet powding dd) see Ty ein aT pied aie
Hy ; ey Wan), et at br a ' ti eer ke Teh iva, tia a) okiat w ae ‘Teh aah ote
¢ ~ ' nan ee yn teint whee }
iss filly debt fe tent AB kar vider oda cay ae: Darnall? AEE Balen folitese SI wofdniiony ulviacib-aaf®
npaaa MICE Bee tie ca ae bans aie Piugeat re he ge as
BLACKCAP.
Curruca atricapilla; (Z7rys/
Drossn frum life and on stone by The L Gould , , Lrinted by C Hedimanner.
BLACK-CAP.
Curruca atricapilla, Bechst.
Le Bec-fin 4 téte noir.
Or the numerous migratory songsters that add a charm to our spring by their melody, the Black-cap is
inferior to none, being equally distinguished for the power and variety of his own notes, as for his aptness in
imitating those of other species, whether discordant or otherwise,—a habit in which he frequently indulges ; and
so exactly similar are the sounds he produces, that we are often deceived by the skill of the imitation: his own
song is particularly liquid and melodious, and poured out with great energy. The Black-cap is common in our
Island during summer, and also generally spread throughout the northern and central portions of Europe ; it
frequents our gardens and shrubberies, but is nevertheless a bird of shy and recluse habits, and remains con-
cealed from observation in the thickest part of the foliage. It generally appears among us in the month of April,
and departs again in September.
It is worthy of notice that the males and females of this species perform their migrations separately ; and we
believe this habit is almost universal among the Warblers, the males preceding the females in their arrival by
about a week, commencing their song immediately, and selecting a favourable locality for the purpose of nidifi-
cation, which takes place as soon as the foliage is sufficiently dense for the necessary concealment, among which
they construct their nest of vegetable fibres intermingled with a little moss and grasses, in a low bush, shrub
or hedgerow, the female laying four or five eggs of a dingy white, clouded with light yellow brown, spotted and
occasionally streaked with darker brown. Its food consists of insects, berries, and fruits.
The male has the top of the head and occiput of a deep black ; the throat and under parts of a lightish
grey ; the upper parts, wings and tail, of a dull olive grey; feet and beak blueish ash. The female has the
top of the head reddish brown; the other portions of the plumage like that of the male, but rather more
obscure, the under parts having a slight tinge of red pervading the grey.
We have figured a male and female of their natural size.
ae au : ' veins (eo ea. te i sacenliens adt «Oo
i ee F : Jay tot a whtstat
. "THD: Sone f i ai 7,
ast pete ghoal np i A haeis ae “ourei ny
4 . aie eétons wat, bolt Berea Silt sseotlad , )
iy fi i! aida bea alot i, VG Pers Pe w ieadé. reine 4
‘ n Fe Ghee atc or S| Me SE 3a Crake ioe sre A iy sodaddoldy sted:
: Citta tek, BOs Ade. bs i BACT GME 8 ‘ f Jean: tigahs ROP WAOA, poke :
rie Waldo eo nad elke tii reali foe ayyt rei glo 3 4 rch alvasestegits A ‘ouside ss
abe Dee kik risdew aT fake bestsonts see’ cae
‘eit if t eid bas jas i tory ovilo Helen To ie fir wgatee “ert anny ait rete:
ay ; t riding doa olane sce to daté ad es) GI oe iiejeiwagy “eepgf ; id ates bso ot te got
2 fot SF Gas ig tobuy od frwoedo
* bewg avid a
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‘DD i 4 f i : d i 7 * q cr «
eR ae } Le he is? tL Ay bith ede. hd and ee 4 :
GARDEN WARBLER.
Curruca hortensis:(Bechs&/
Dy uur trom Nutave to on Stone ty ThE boa": Printed ty Cialimandel
GARDEN WARBLER.
Curruca hortensis, Bechst.
La Bec-fin fauvette.
Tuts unassuming and plain-coloured bird is one of the migratory species resorting to our island, where it
arrives in the month of April, enlivening our gardens, coppices, and shrubberries with its cheerful notes ; and
with so much melody does it pour forth its strains that it has often been put in competition with the Nightin-
gale and Blackcap.
Tn its habits it is shy and secluded, seldom showing itself, and its presence is often unsuspected until its
song is heard. :
Its range is very general over our island as well as over the whole of the temperate and southern portions
of Europe. Soon after its appearance in this country the business of nidification is commenced, the nest
being constructed among nettles, or any other rank herbage, and formed of roots, grasses, various other
plants and moss interwoven together; the eggs, which are four in number, are yellowish grey, blotched with
wood brown, principally at the larger end.
The adults of both sexes do not differ in the tints of their plumage; the young, on the other hand, have the
region of the eyes lighter, and the general colour of their plumage more olive.
The adults may be thus briefly described :
Upper surface ash grey, with a slight tinge of olive; sides of the neck ash grey; throat and under surface
greyish white; flanks and breast slightly tinged with brown; bill brown; legs greyish brown.
We have figured a male of the natural size.
RUPPELLS WARBLER.
Curruca Ruppella
Drosrifrom Hecurre bon Stone by Sh Ei Could: Bixted by C Ballmaniel.
RUPPELL’S WARBLER.
Curruca Ruppellii.
Le Bec-fin de Ruppell.
Tuis elegant bird having been admitted to the Fauna of Europe as a rare visitant to its eastern countries, it
becomes necessary for us to illustrate it in the present work.
The figures in the accompanying plate are drawings of individuals obtained from the collection of Dr.
Riippell, to whom the species has been dedicated by M. Temminck ; and we ourselves feel considerable pleasure
in being able to assist in perpetuating the name of so distinguished a naturalist, whose exertions in behalf of
science cannot be too highly appreciated, and whose enthusiastic researches in the field of nature have enabled
him to add so largely to our zoological knowledge.
The habitat of the Curruca Rippellii would appear to be the northern and eastern portions of Africa, where
it occasionally passes over the boundary line to the adjacent confines of Europe.
M. Temminck informs us that it gives preference to thickly wooded districts ; and from the general form
and contour of the body, and particularly its subdued and sober tone of colouring, we may reasonably expect
that its general ceconomy is in unison with the birds of our own island to which the restricted term of
Curruca has been applied, and with which we have ventured to associate it, acknowledging at the same time
that the more slender and pointed bill of the present bird offers a character somewhat at variance with the
genus alluded to.
The little knowledge we possess respecting the habits and nidification of this interesting bird prevents our
adding to this description that information which future discovery can alone impart.
The sexes, as in many other species of the genus Curruca, offer a marked difference in their colouring, the
male being distinguished by its black head and throat, and by the conspicuous stripe of white which passes
from the base of the lower mandible to the end of the ear-coverts, which are grey: in other respects they
are alike in plumage. The female has only a tendency to the black crown, and is entirely devoid of the white
stripe on the cheeks.
The whole of the upper surface is deep blue grey; wings blackish grey, the outer edges of the feathers
margined with brown ; the eight central feathers of the tail black, the next on each side black on their outer
webs with a large white spot on the inner ones, the outer feather on each side white for three fourths of its
length; flanks grey; under surface greyish white tinged with vinous; bill black at the tip and brownish white
at the base ; legs brown.
The Plate represents an adult male and female, of the natural size.
ay t J ws
a CRA, diver
ny OF ¥) 1}
Meer ahi!
SARDINILAN WARBLER.
Curruca melanocephala, /(Zech-s/
Lrowhe 17 0IR LUTE G6 OF SCOR CYS Celi, (TTR
SARDINIAN WARBLER.
Curruca melanocephala, Lath.
Bec-fin mélanocéphale.
Tuts bird, which is closely allied in habits, manners and plumage to our Black-cap, (Curruca atricapilla,) has
hitherto been little known, and is seldom to be met with in ornithological collections. We are able to add
but little to M. Temminck’s account, who informs us that its localities are very limited, as it appears to be
confined to the central parts of Spain, Sardinia, and the Neapolitan States ; a circumstance which seems the
more probable, as the author has never yet seen it among any of the numerous and extensive collections from
different parts of the globe which he has had the opportunity of inspecting.
The specimens from which the accompanying figures are taken were brought from Spain, in 1831, by
Captain S. E. Cook, who observed the species to be not uncommon in the neighbourhood of Madrid, and
in the interior of the country. By that gentleman they were presented to the Zoological Society of Lon-
don; and the Author here takes the opportunity of expressing his obligations to the Council and Members,
for the permission so kindly allowed of availing himself, on this and other occasions, of the treasures of their
Museum. Its food, like that of the Black-cap, consists of flies, the larvae of insects, and soft berries; but we
are unable to say whether or not it is as sweet and charming a songster as our own British species. It builds
in low bushes near the ground, the female laying five eggs of a yellowish-white, spotted with a darker colour.
The male and female differ not only in the colour of the head, but also in the general tinge which pervades
the plumage. In the male, the forehead, top of the head, and ears are of a deep black; the rest of the upper
surface of a dark leaden grey; the quill-feathers tinged with brown; the tail inclining to black, the outer
feather on each side having its tip and outer edge dull white; the throat white; the sides grey, becoming
lighter on the under surface; the legs light brown; irides brown; beak black, base of the under mandible
whitish.
In the female, the top of the head is of a dark leaden grey, like the back of the male; the whole of the
upper surface is tinged with olive-brown; the throat white; the sides light russet brown, becoming lighter
below; the beak and legs as in the male.
The length is about five inches.
The Plate presents a male and female of the natural size.
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i datiod poe one 2stilesal akin wh amotet ode danosos aaoniannsT 2 a oftsil trl
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dy 't , iol has sae of E
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bah | ght ¥ 4 otiite. Halk cul ihe igus. Qit att aniead shia deed no sodindk
eban od? 1 sad sbald died :awurl ohhé pegud wbath seallsd? pottide webu aff ao vonkgh
. “ie aitidw
alt Wis slnndhee: ald or oft Yo Toad. off oil oe aobaol faba to of fined silt 16 gor ad enon oft al:
shui) weimoned .word joosny teil eobia od? salt deol alt < raoad-seilo’ ibe Hygnid af sodtine teqa
tect off) ai ee aaa! bus aeed odd; -wolwt
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SUB-ALPINE WARBLER.
Curruea leucopogon, (MA
Dravrn trom Naturedton Stone by TELE, Could. - Lr by OC Fatimanae.
SUBALPINE WARBLER.
Curruca leucopogon, Mzhi.
Le Bec-fin subalpin.
We are indebted to the collection of the Zoological Society of London for the first examples of this species
which we have had the opportunity of examining, and which were presented to the Museum by the celebrated
Professor Savi, of Pisa, who, in his work on the Birds of Tuscany, states, that the Sylvia passerina and
S. subalpina of M. Temminck’s Manuel should be considered as synonymous with the Sylwa leucopogon of
Meyer. We have also more recently been favoured by M. Temminck with fine examples of this species, and with
a communication in which he acknowledges that recent observation has established the justice of Professor
Savi’s opinion, in considering his Sylva subalpina as the old male in the livery of spring of the Sylvia passerina,
and which, as we have before stated, Professor Savi considers synonymous with SS. /eucopogon, being the same
bird in different stages of plumage. It appears, indeed, to be a bird whose changes of plumage are not yet
rightly understood, even by those who have had the best opportunities of observing it in a state of nature.
Professor Savi has forwarded specimens of this interesting bird in different states, one of which certainly
answers to the description of the S. passerina of M. Temminck.
The figures which we have given to illustrate this species are those of adult birds of both sexes, killed in
summer. ‘The female will be seen to offer a contrasted difference to the male in the colour of her plumage,
which offers no very great dissimilarity to that of the young, except that the blueish grey of the upper surface
is of a reddish brown tinge, the flanks also in the young being of a more sandy yellow. We trust it will not
be considered that we have added new difficulties by increasing the synonyms which have already been
applied to this species, in adopting the generic station and title of Curruca, which we do provisionally,
considering that it is closely allied to the typical form of that genus.
The natural habitat of the Subalpine Warbler is limited to the South of Europe, especially Italy and
Sardinia: it is also known to exist in considerable abundance on the banks of the Nile, as far as Abyssinia.
It frequents bushes and underwood, living upon insects, small caterpillars, &c. Of its eggs and nidification
nothing is at present known.
The male, in full plumage, has the head and the whole of the upper plumage of a fine blueish grey; the
wings and tail somewhat darker, the feathers of the wings having lighter edges, and the two outer tail-
feathers being pure white; the throat, breast, and flanks are reddish chestnut ; a white moustache passes
from the angle of the beak to the side of the neck; the middle of the belly dirty white.
The female differs from the male in having the breast only tinged with pale rufous, the white moustache
being much more obscure.
The young, as we have already stated, differs from the female in having the upper plumage of a more
uniform greyish brown, and in being much more pale beneath.
The Plate represents the male and female of the natural size.
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4 = ; + t ay a oe ing
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g - - yr Mg i ye ry t- ity oan j Hain vei ie “eval vil
~ By ‘ i
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. | ¥ alti chtper | | thews Se dd)-yoivet ot ou od) moit ati shoe att
| ; ; . * oe da grant eh -
; ian 6 le gine ear Ont gehen «i olen adi: om oasBil Lh hui arratl her 86 sume af F acae*
‘ 7 x 5 “it ode
tis, sreworit dairy fn
aida ae a
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i Bi
whe Leeder alt tes sini ait vce ail), :
1.COMMON WHITETHROAT.
Curruca cinerea: (Lechst/
Drawn from Life 4 on Stonely S&L Could,
2. LESSER WHITETHROAT.
Curruca garrula: /Zechst/
Lrnkedl by C Liudimandid.
COMMON WHITE-THROAT.
Curruca cinerea, Bechst.
Le Bec-fin grisette.
Or all the migratory birds which pay their annual summer visit to this country for the purpose of making it
their home during the breeding season, the Common White-throat is by far the most abundant and the most
extensively distributed, every hedge-row and coppice being enlivened by its presence. It is no less abundantly
found throughout the mild and southern districts of continental Europe. Like many other birds of the genus
in which it is ranked, it has the power, to a considerable degree, of imitating the notes of other birds inde-
pendent of its own hurried, confused, and babbling strain. During the time the female is engaged in the task
of incubation, the male may be seen mounting in the air to a considerable height above the tops of the hedges
with a singular jerk of the tail and raised crest, uttering its song, if a series of rapid and intricate modulations
may be thought worthy of the name. Among the entangled branches and thick foliage of hedge-rows it
displays the utmost quickness and address,—concealing itself from observation with great wariness: to
hedges, indeed, particularly those which border lawns or broad ditches overgrown with nettles and other wild
plants, the Common White-throat always appears to be partial; it generally constructs its nest in such
situations, and uses for its materials dry grass and bents loosely interwoven, and though by no means remark-
able for beauty or elaborate workmanship, its little building is frequently so well concealed as to require a
pretty close scrutiny to discover it; the eggs are generally four or five in number, of a pale blueish white,
thickly speckled with ash-grey. The young at a very early age nearly resemble their parents, between whom
no difference exists either in the colour or the disposition of the markings of their feathers.
The general plumage of the whole of the upper parts is of a rufous grey, the edging of the secondaries
being of a brighter tint ; the quills and tail-feathers of a darker hue with less of rufous ; the throat is white,
the under parts white, tinged especially on the breast with a slight wash of rufous ; irides hazel; beak and
tarsi wood brown.
LESSER WHITE-THROAT.
Curruca garrula, Bechst.
Le Bec-fin babillard.
Tue Bec-jin babillard, Sylgia Curruca, Temm., Babbling Warbler of Latham, and the Lesser White-throat, are
all synonymes of the Curruca garrula of Brisson. In size, as its English name implies, it is considerably less than
the Common White-throat, which, however, it greatly resembles in general habits and manners, but appears
to be more partial to orchards, gardens, and coppices, where it frequents the tallest trees, pouring out its
babbling notes with the utmost energy, but never, we believe, rising in the air and singing at the same time,
as is so remarkably the case with the preceding species ; its notes are also more powerful and melodious, and
its disposition more restless. It is neither so abundant nor are its local resorts so extended in the British Isles
as the Common White-throat; it inhabits in preference the warmer portions of continental Europe, and in
_ England confines its visits to the southern counties of our Island, becoming more and more scarce as we proceed
northward, where beyond a certain limit it is unknown. The situations in which it builds are similar to
those chosen by the Common White-throat ; such as bushes, brambles, nettles, &c., where it forms a nest of
bents and other grasses, lined with finer fibres partially mixed with hair. The eggs are four or five in number,
of a white colour dotted and blotched with ash-grey and brown, except at the small end, which is plain.
This species, as well as the preceding, leave this country in the months of August and September.
The top of the head is pure ash colour, becoming deeper on the ear-coverts ; the general plumage above is
greyish brown inclined to olive ; the throat pure white; the under surface white very slightly tinged with
brown; irides hazel; beak and ¢arsz lead colour. The male and females are alike in colour.
Our Plate represents both the Common and Lesser White-throat in their spring plumage, of their natural
size,
Mae he -
te ee Tite ty a
th vi
WA 6 sie
rie
nite ( 7
dont paag
; | . ) | ald 7 7 nd
4 - f é “wea e.. * ' ; a ‘ Vii } bys a | ¥ mnt . 1 liver ait ache y we ap iy j ‘ .
mer!
) Tine Bai i 2 PORT EU Re mi ‘ mb. & ‘ cash oe, jeri .
e F : Li i ' J ty ‘ ui =F
: . \ i \ vs ds owe { ‘We Gi ails 7 , AS *" dake %
iY i
fv Pa ee ay Rae : th “ ie te Mi a's
ete Pena a f
: GACT tall Pkt (e arey et duigian i
taal ni J i
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f f "
l
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; ’ ; i oe a 1 =
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A te
bie, ati an: shal, ee Rl ieee ro) aN vine tpl
HRA Bags. the all wireless taal aie aie chy ‘lr ile tlio ld
RyUneess | Math ay 4; 4) pig eran pak: sitler af ‘nth ‘filustnaions aa ad
| the Saas os ctiees ote i aeretah sn 4 Ard Ayn ee tug iadyait ied ia
7 lao nih sn a a, a sh gow tbe
‘ Treeederte aru biti Sabi 000 yaceorpait 3 Law Ww ea seh pot sii ok on salad est eles Gg seu iit ol
rent ob ian’ dul fre, a) wyacsitianeri Eee grunmaiant Be Bhool shite a. sa wi, re vttyus 50n)
r . 4 omit ial cates wenidarend: eatlaud «a iises is . ah a it
‘ 7s Bs is | 1 Wh? wa et ron" vi Ve . if 5 j ry “ 7 eT fe ive Don wf
: ne, OF ieee waite lags wi. PERT e a wr L
Figs _vadliaiine hieta verges. Ww asipue 4 add wi GHnuey erty: rik
.
pees. |.
hati as » ih, aks 2 ie: a niger ath
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4 ich | | ) Cy aah ol gh
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SPECTACLE WARBLER.
Curruca conspicillata.
Drown v from Latore & on Stone ay J & £, Gouids Lined by CLiulimanded:
/ db
SPECTACLE WARBLER.
Curruca conspicillata, Mehz.
Le Bec-fin 4 lunettes.
Tuis elegant little bird, which in form and general style of colouring is so nearly allied to the common White-
throat, Curruca cinerea, is an inhabitant of the southern provinces of Europe. We have seen several specimens,
killed in Spain, where, according to the observation of Capt. S. E. Cook, R.N., (see ‘‘ Sketches in Spain,”
vol. 2. p. 264.) it is far from being uncommon. “This beautiful little bird,” he observes, ‘‘is stationary in
Andalusia, frequenting low and moist situations, and, I suspect, not much extended in their habitats. I found
them in the marshes near Seville, where they live with the C. cimerea, and may easily be mistaken for them.”
In addition to the above authority we have other grounds for stating the close resemblance of its habits and
manners to those of our Whitethroat ; and though we have no information as to its song or nidification, it
may be reasonably presumed that in these respects also it exhibits a decided alliance. According to MM. Savi
and Temminck, it is found in Sardinia, where it may be observed in places covered with bushes or wood :
in the North of Italy and France it has never been seen.
The male has the top of the head and cheeks fine ash colour; the space between the eye and the beak
black, whence a circle of the same colour surrounds the white of the eyes; the upper surface vinous ash
colour ; the wings blackish, edged with rufous ; throat white ; under surface white, tinged with vinous, which
passes into reddish on the flanks ; tail somewhat graduated, and brownish black, with the exception of the
outer feathers, which are nearly white, the second and third being also tipped with the same colour.
The female is only to be distinguished from the male by the paler colouring of the plumage, which still
preserves the markings of the male, except that the circle of black round the eyes is scarcely if at all
apparent.
Our Plate represents an adult male and female of the natural size.
MARMORAS WARBLER.
Curruca sarda.
/
Drawn Jie Mature & on stone by Jé E. Contd, ' Lrnted by C. Hadbmandel:
\v)\
MARMORA’S WARBLER.
Curruca Sarda.
Le Bec-fin Sarde.
In his “‘ Manuel d’Ornithologie” M. Temminck informs us that we owe the knowledge of this species to the
Chevalier Marmora, and that it was described ‘in the Annals of the Academy of Turin, on the 28th of August
1819. In its plumage and by the naked circle round the eyes, it is nearly allied to the Sylvia melanocephala,
from which it is distinguished by its beak being more feeble and slender, like that of the Pitichou. Tt may
also be distinguished by the tail, of which only the exterior feathers are edged with white, whilst in the Bec-
fin melanocephata all the exterior barbs and the ends of the two first feathers are white. The colour of the
throat also prevents these nearly allied species from being confounded.”
In addition to the features pointed out by M. Temminck to distinguish this bird from Curruca melanocephala,
we may observe that in the latter the black colouring of the head is more decided and of a deeper tint than
in Curruca Sarda, which has the whole of the upper plumage of a uniform blackish grey.
Although this bird is somewhat rare, it may be found in most of the European collections; and from the cir-
cumstance of our never having observed it in any of the numerous and extensive collections from India and
Africa which we have had the opportunity of examining, we feel convinced that it is a very local species, appa-
rently only found in Sardinia and the most eastern portions of the Continent.
It is said to dwell in small woods, and to feed on very small flies and other insects, which attach themselves
to the leaves.
Of its nidification nothing is known.
In the colouring of their plumage the sexes present but a slight difference, the male being only of a some-
what darker tint, particularly on the throat and under surface.
The head, throat, and all the upper surface is of a deep blackish grey, which is darkest on the forehead
and round the eyes, the sides of the neck and flanks being much lighter, and having a tinge of vinous; middle
of the belly greyish white tinged with vinous; wings and tail black, the exterior feathers of the latter edged
with white; the orbits of the eyes naked and of a beautiful vermilion; base of the under mandible yellow,
the remainder blue; feet yellowish brown.
We have figured a male and female of the natural size.
a
iyi ate arith. sods
,
ay
Jl eae nde Hi he pe las Herat
beet se wri odt i (fit AeEy ait. pe
5 att . ii ale hit ise my rae sided erty pits
qohatin vdt Tyo 1 i ies po {yl nie f; ‘ Yi iw Hhidaig wea adh. ep “able wat: * iv
x : Oe Ct ea “laid dakwilloid a ek pe As
ui inet Hees hots. a
BARRED WARBLER.
Curruca msoria.
Lrawn frome Naiuvekon stoneby J & £ Cook, Printed by C Lirdimemded,
BARRED WARBLER.
Curruca nisoria.
Le Bec-fin rayée.
Tue principal feature peculiar to this rare species consists in its comparatively large size to that of the
Warblers in general, in its lengthened and elegant form, and in its grey tone of colouring, relieved by
numerous transverse bars of black and white. In assigning it to the genus Curruca, which we do with some
hesitation, we are influenced by the fact that of all the groups of the Sy/viade, it is to this that it makes the
nearest approach. It is not a native of the British Isles, nor, as far as we are aware, has it been found in
France or Holland; it is, however, tolerably common in many parts of Germany. Never having, ourselves,
seen this bird in a state of nature, we prefer quoting the observations of M. Temminck, who informs us that
it inhabits bushes and thickets, is abundantly spread throughout the North, occurring in Sweden and in the
provinces of the North of Germany and Hungary: it is of more rare occurrence in Austria, and it is also
found in Lombardy.
Its food consists of insects, caterpillars, worms, and berries.
It builds its nest in tufted hawthorn bushes, lays four or five eggs, of a whitish colour blotched with purplish
ash or pure ash colour.
M. Temminck describes the male and female as offering considerable difference in the marking of the plu-
mage. In the specimens that have fallen under our notice this difference has appeared but very trifling. It
may be best, however, to give the colouring from M. Temminck. That of the adult male is as follows :
Head, cheek, back of the neck, and back, of a deep grey, as are also the scapulars and rump, but all the
feathers of these parts are terminated by a small bar of brown and another of white ; the wings are of a
lighter ash colour, the outer feather having a large blotch of white at its extremity ;. this blotch of white ‘is
not so apparent on the second, and still less so on the third and fourth feathers: all the under surface is
whitish transversely barred with ashy grey ; under tail-coverts are grey with large white edges ; beak brown;
irides brilliant yellow.
The female has the upper surface of an ash colour, clouded with brown but: without transverse bars ; the
flanks slightly clouded with reddish; the white at the extremity of the tail is more circumscribed and less
pure.
The young before their first moult have the whole of the body marked with minute transverse rays of ashy
brown ; irides brown.
The Plate represents a male of the natural size.
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DARTFORD WARBLER.
Mehzophilus provincialis; (Leach/.
Cham trem Native & on Stone by Jb F. Cunbed. Liented ty Clidimanded.
Genus MELIZOPHILUS, Leach.
Gen. Cuar. Head large; bill short, greatly arched from the base, compressed, with the tip
finely emarginated ; ¢omza of both mandibles inflected towards the middle ; gape slightly
bearded. Nostrils basal, lateral, longitudinally cleft. Wings short, rounded, the first
feather very small, the second shorter than the third, fourth, and fifth, which are equal
and longest. Taz/ long and soft. Legs having the tars? strong, and longer than the middle
toe, which is nearly equal in length to the hind one.
DARTFORD WARBLER.
Melizophilus provincialis, Leach.
Le Pitte-chou de Provence.
We adopt the present genus as constituted by Dr. Leach, in the formation of which we consider him borne
out by the striking difference this bird exhibits in its characters to all the other European Sy/ade. Its form
closely allies it to the Superb Warblers (Aalurus, Vieill.) of New Holland, while its relationship to the
Common Whitethroat, Curruca cinerea, is strikingly apparent: its rounded wing and very graduated tail,
however, form just grounds of distinction. To the British Ornithologist, the Dartford Warbler is a bird of
peculiar interest. It is a permanent resident in this island, a fact which is proved by our having received it
in a recent state at all seasons of the year. It is nevertheless far from being universally distributed, being
principally, if not exclusively, confined to the southern and south-western districts, where it resorts to commons,
heaths, and moorlands, clothed with thick furze and heather, living in a state of complete seclusion, being
habitually addicted to threading the thickest portion of the brushwood, whence it is not easily driven. In the
spring, at the season of pairing and nidification, it is more lively and more frequently visible, rising on
quivering wing above the tops of the furze, and uttering a hurried babbling song, much after the manner of
the Whitethroat ; at these times it erects the feathers of its head into a crest, and distends the throat,
exhibiting various attitudes and gesticulations. The nest is composed of dry stalks and grass, intermingled
with wool and vegetable fibres : it is in general placed in the thickest part of a furzebush, at a short distance
from the ground. The eggs, according to Montagu, are very similar to those of the Whitethroat, being
speckled with brown and cinereous spots on a greenish white ground.
The Dartford Warbler is found tolerably abundant on all the heathy commons in the immediate vicinity of
London, as well as those of Bagshot, Chobham, &c., but it is more particularly abundant in Devonshire and
Cornwall. In no place, however, is it to be found more plentiful than in the neighbourhood of Oakingham in
Berkshire, whence specimens have been sent us by John Rogers Wheeler, Esq., whose fine and choice
collection contains the most beautiful examples. On the Continent it is more abundant throughout Spain,
Italy, and the South of France, than in Germany and Holland.
Its food consists of various species of insects and their larvee, to which are added, as the season affords,
berries and fruits of various kinds ; at least they feed on such substances in confinement where they become
tame and reconciled.
The head, the back of the neck, and the upper plumage deep grey; the under plumage deep reddish
brown, with a ferruginous tint ; throat mottled with white; wings and tail brown, with the exception of the
outer feathers of the latter, which have white tips and exterior edges ; bill yellow at the base, black at the
tip ; legs brown.
The female resembles the male, except that her plumage is duller, the back being dusky brownish, and the
throat merely exhibiting traces of the white edging to the feathers so conspicuous in the male.
We have figured a male and female of the natural size.
/
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nye rn ema OR ire “AR Heats ero NR foi Wy
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neta one Vel Sel Ma A, iy qelrecele etal Fea oe
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j sigh SAN Bela’ en hd Di hh Shit freanh it
fei! + 20 spay hag ta Ra marty 2 Haup tenalgornl a die end
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F
Wa TON
Troglodytes Kuropaeus, (Cr /
“ren Tron Lite b cre Stone by Se En
Fading
Genus TROGLODYTES, Cuv.
Gen. Cuar. Bell slender, slightly compressed, emarginated, curved slightly. Nostrals basal,
oval, half covered by an arched and naked membrane. Wings short, rounded; first quill
very short; second longer; fourth and fifth equal and longest. Yael short, rather rounded,
and carried erect. Legs strong. ‘Toes three before and one behind ; the outer toe joined
at its base to the middle one.
WREN.
Troglodytes Europzeus, Cuw.
Le Troglodyte ordinaire.
Axrnovueu the group to which this familiar little bird belongs is filled up by numerous species in the continent
of America ;—Europe, and even the older continents of Asia and Africa, present us with only one example ;
a species, however, which in Europe is universally diffused, inhabiting the countries which border the arctic
circle as well as those of the South. In England it abounds in our hedgerows and thickets, hovering about
the dwellings of man, with whose presence it seems perfectly reconciled, and near whom it is allowed to dwell
unmolested. No one indeed ean observe its habits and manners without becoming interested in its welfare,
enlivening as it does the bleak season of winter with its tremulous, shrill and lively strains; nor is it less
amusing to observe it creep like a mouse through our quickset hedges and underwood, examining the moss-
covered banks and stumps of trees in search of its insect food which lies concealed. among the crevices.
It seldom takes long flights, but keeps to the same local situations. It remains with us during the whole
of the year, braving our severest winters with impunity. It breeds early, and its familiar disposition often leads
it to build in outhouses, arbours, summer-houses, and similar situations ; at other times it selects the sides of
walls covered with ivy, and thickly wooded shrubs. It constructs an ingenious and curiously domed nest, of
moss, leaves or grass, in fact of any material that may be at hand, and lays seven or eight eggs of a pure
white, prettily freckled with reddish spots. The young on leaving the nest are extremely shy, and active in
concealing themselves among the herbage and the thickest parts of bushes. The sexes offer no external
differences, and the young very soon assume the adult plumage.
The ground-colour of the Wren is of a reddish brown, becoming paler and more grey beneath; the whole
of the plumage is prettily barred transversely with darker brown or black ; a narrow white line passes above
the eyes.
We have figured an adult bird of the natural size.
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rr . hr Utiorle pga te ~ shauna Penalica bie herds an ad bores Hed foro
Sinwit As Jardaak Bepe ieapes Ait Lyiyat Puno ; ;taanol henwse 2 heads. yts¥
wtvo od: byitedt ee Uren aeokied aor? all quontaeead. toons horn baw
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cy view. dlbe ar josey ino h te: died to wei noble nlt woo fous aqeradl-—; organ To 7
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Cus SRT ioe") it . itr ah ‘ ef alias potas : & Linsarl Hit. ie. al Annie oult Ve. gunlt an [i-rw eur alanis:
nb as ariol'a abai ievibe wer type. holeapongs yrs att Hy HLL ea ciaarng sao div ang to eqyrttt erly dt .
reelee eas iti y>) f a ul rte eae atiiaet fore evita | ‘ait yet rato ‘imey frealict Sit ot sfvedi slooiau an
Pu er wa wa viovil fine lipeda . owt 2b dite soteve. to tigame dale alt) dob 47 a pidusiles
t “atta > DOO TaHid. Naa arenes aif ity} Ma Tasrorils aenoTnl oii wow ii grteulo oa mniasare
14 wuGgi helen 6% eyil ustedes fact: #8 AT ale he (162 ak we ot we wide fecha alr herta709-
wiaoud sure Gdtod aqbngk tod aaigilt guol ented wroblye i
slowtrr Sale “Utietilis alt MIE ee 7
wit rat aoquih saiionet ai to hier deat 1b inet itive atxdoiwt testirag wo syrivarnd’ 19 sd? bo
to wohis od ctasing 3, eantt soli 4% emntunins wilinua hid esertoilaguteiya wutedis mood wi Dliad' og
& aigrvartos. 2 aduide baleeiwe qbbsid? bad ape dite bewios alle
Ys, equa fpia 40 asvsd ayal huis bind de od yom datts Ixivitnce Yen Wo, Joe at peng wy eovaol mao
Aj ie fae ale qigtnenxe, 0 Jno, oth sive no ganoy otf. OT | heatntyre thin holga qitiong ee
: lave ou rata eT, ott: ue yiland te adie fea dt nil? adt hing Sypail, “sdf gaoie asvionagds euiles
ae vyenriey til otlt suttagen cigo8 E13" wuwEY oft bow oe
gluta ott broad ere sod Sie yuheiuaad nord dailbaw, i lor ani ods Yo Mn oe
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4u Dacsol ‘genom bus andi aah iv
‘
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*
*
LWiLhLOoW WREN.
Sylvia trochilus, /G7meliw/
2.CHIFF CHAFF. s.W0O0D WREN.
Sylvia hippolais, 72Zh./ Sylvia sibilaterx, Bech
nan trom Lure and on Stone by T&F. Goud Lite ty C Zubimanded.
Genus SYLVIA.
Gen. Cuar. Beak straight, slender, conical, pointed, slightly notched at the tip, sides some-
what concave, base furnished with fine hairs. Nostrils basal, lateral, oval. Tarsz longer
than the middle toe. Toes, three before, one behind; the outer toe joined at the base to the
middle one. Wings, the first quill-feather very short, second and fourth equal, third longest.
WILLOW WREN.
Sylvia trochilus, Gmel. Le Pouillot.
WE here present, on a single Plate, three little birds, which are nearly allied to each other in habits, manners,
and plumage, and which form the British portion of a genus to which the generic title Sy/via is truly appli-
cable. They visit our budding woodlands on the return of spring, pleasing us with their sweet and delicate notes.
The sexes present no difference in plumage; the young, however, in the autumn have a brighter and more
pervading tinge of yellow. All are migratory.
The Willow Wren is by far the most abundant in England: it is also dispersed throughout the greater portion
of Europe, from Sweden to Italy. At the same time its localities are less strictly confined, inhabiting not
only groves, woods, and willow plantations, but gardens, hedge-rows, and commons covered with bushes. It
arrives in April; but like the rest of our summer visitors, its appearance seems regulated by the temperature
of the season, and the consequent abundance of its food, which consists of the soft-winged insects and their
larve. Being more familiar than the two others, we have a better opportunity of becoming acquainted with
its habits. Its song is simple, consisting of a few prolonged and softly modulated notes, frequently smging
while in active search for Aphides and other insects on which it subsists.
The whole of the upper surface is of a greenish-olive: over the eye extends a faint yellow stripe; throat
and breast slightly tinged with yellow; belly yellowish-white ; under tail-coverts yellow; legs dull flesh-
colour; wings covering about a third of the tail.
The female builds a covered nest of dried moss and grasses, lined with feathers, and artfully concealed on
the ground, on the sloping side of a bank, or in a dry ditch, among thick herbage or tangled bushes; the
eggs are white, marked with pale reddish spots, more thickly dotted towards the larger end.
CHIFF-CHAFF.
Sylvia hippolais. La Fauvette de Roseaux.
Tne Chiff-chaff so nearly resembles the former species as to be frequently confounded with it: it may,
however, be distinguished by its smaller size and darker legs; in addition to this, the streak over the eye is
less apparent, and the general plumage not so finely tinged with yellow.
It is one of our earliest visitors, and is less common than the two other species, differing from both in its
habits and localities. Partial to groves and tall trees, it frequents the topmost branches, where it may be
heard to utter its short song, composed of two distinctly repeated notes, chiff-chaff, which have given origin
to its usual name. In the construction of its nest, and in the colour and number of its eggs, it resembles the
preceding species, the spots only being of a darker red, and fewer in number.
In addition to the three species here figured, Bewick adds another, under the title of the Least Willow
Wren, which we, however, believe to be a Chiff-chaff.
A little variation frequently occurs in the size of each of these birds. The present is, however, shorter than
the Willow Wren by about half an inch, and proportionally less in all its other measurements.
Its habitat is extended to the greater portion of Europe, from Sweden to France.
WOOD WREN.
Sylvia sibilatrix, Bechst. Le Bec-fin siffleur.
Tue distinguishing characters of the Wood Wren consist in its superior size, and the more elongated wing,
which extends over nearly two thirds of the length of the tail; in the bright yellow streak above the eye, the
yellow edgings of the wing-feathers, and the silvery whiteness of the under surface. In other respects its
plumage partakes of the general tone of colour which is found in the Willow Wren and Chiff-chaff, except
that the olive-green of the back and upper parts is of a more lively tint. Secluded woods and groves are its
general places of resort, where it may be easily identified by its peculiar tremulous warble, both louder and
possessing more variety than its congeners, and accompanied with a singular quivering of the wings.
Its nest partakes of the character of those of the other species, both as to its structure and place of con-
cealment, but instead of feathers, is lmed most commonly with fine grass or hair. The eggs are six in number,
of a white ground, dotted with purplish spots, more confluent towards the larger end.
It inhabits the same countries as the two preceding species.
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. y er rl ar, :
fof sodio date ot Bae ee ide afyrid ols! priilt aaa ubiieces ‘wig walk
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CUI SR radon! yeu ef Bs penal ti soawishib ou Nissorg e9nae ofE ‘ea
| | ig AGieryies sie Ith wollen wo ognid yoiharray
| fe ; VOU DertaGee Gale et di = bscobgu cl og ge teom ay uit edad aot well odF
“3 ¢lisifa aloP SM BSN ineo! +t! scold Sie ao ih. .viail oF gash ; aso peb B a aay
> HOMO Rie ed IGM a ators tnely wolliw Fuss: hoow eorory are haan
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To. Ying — | OW AMG cat odt « fy tasthiegh ot Om yoiett srl
islibeen yfito, bua | ov Wit wile gnijzionoe »lamia vi wae eff x tidad a ant,
; cued » iogaget tadlio bos arbi ape. wt dorgee svitos ii tithes :
ihastss > / 4ei ondleingery a lo M98 pheetee THI rT #0? to: shoddy of F | % en
, - rf n° 4 « a 45 - se i
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: ' * ' he ’ es ; i - : ee
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t t P rene ae . s } a a
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t.* r * “ al -,' r + 2 nce % Reni:
net DybiPotaos elprases ‘ot > esisqe Wereh of esidiuvesx vison o- Hado-fint> aah
beta: oult : des 19 2th Ge frit! | oo! oda bat sate oalisnie att ed Wodeirgniteth od) devewed .—
‘ylaatt O28 fon S2htanigq lasnas set fetes TORRE zagl
iy waned wilto ori ot cad) sOmMeAnmnel 2i Bos velotitir ieoibins a80 to ute Bi il
iS i Sct ) 99 Hip ben <9. . e OF- the wah tite oat bith i sid.
pM AS sotow ho: | erate Gat to: bean cp cists artes fiodes ati. 194 as bw
tii aus aii to. 13dienesrix b wa mOlOD i Ten (dea 23210 fotougtenys. sie : nba Teves a.
F “Maedivees ai west ben beet vy: sf eld nied ya i enviiege -gpibs ‘or
GLEE tes } to shied tabits yiodsone ebhc coinage oe BS weserelt atid of 1euibbe 1
: . em . ‘aig god of we aarowi, on doithe
Abe
si
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: ad ah Tetrer Tey aa ari i : if tts} te ai ai 4ERE. SUL aso e opatt woieiue abi 4
TTS crore fadito wh lis ui sf yileaost Wisi 2 a ft tee: ise tidods td arte
SBT OF tebe! wot ooh rotted ToisETy ott, oy hs
Aa st We aden
vo i “yotl al
; a | outw fst actly vow wht foe ‘aiid ‘on ve inn teienoo 1% 1 san
ie | alt oye dt avods serge wolling mh a plies ont to ditgael of :
ali atgoqesr vari mnt rota robot 0 aeonatidr qrovlia oft, a
kaye dido-Rid bins wan wollte 4 ae 19 p # dtoiciee tole Y
rh 20a ent. rth emrors tina show fy Se } Sty a
c bag saul died oftvaw aries
. Apuiy off'lo aiken inp
pis 00% te srigley bas, uta se
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Sr eg
rs
MELODIOUS WILLOW WREN.
_ Sylvia Hippolais: /Zézm/
Preomypone Nature & on stone by Jé £. Gourd. Lrinied by C ielimoandd:
MELODIOUS WILLOW WRENN.
Sylvia Hippolais, Temm.
Le Bec-fin a poitrine jaune.
Tue bird which we have figured in the accompanying Plate appears to be the true Sylia Hippolas of
M. Temminck and other Continental writers, and is a species which has hitherto never been found in England ;
the bird known under the above name in our island being now unanimously acknowledged to be the Sylva
rufa. It is somewhat singular that this species, so familiar to every naturalist on the Continent, and which
inhabits the gardens and hedgerows of those portions of the coasts of France and Holland that are
immediately opposite our own, should not, like the rest of its immediate congeners, more diminutive in size,
and consequently less capable of performing extensive flights, have occasionally strayed across the Channel
and enlivened our glens and groves with its rich and charming song, which is far superior to that of either of
the three other species of the group.
Although we cannot with propriety separate the present bird from the true Willow Wrens, still we cannot
but be struck with the shorter and stouter contour of its body and its more robust bill; it also differs consi-
derably in its habits and mode of nidification ; all those species that inhabit England constructing a singular
domed nest, which is always placed on the ground, while the species here illustrated invariably builds on trees,
sometimes in the shrubs of the garden, at others in the trees of forests; laying five eggs, of a reddish white
blotted with spots of darker red. Those who have not had an opportunity of listening to the song of this
little tenant of the grove can scarcely form an idea of its power and melody, in which respects it is only equalled
by those of the Black Cap and Nightingale.
The Sylvia Hippolacs appears to be dispersed throughout the European continent from Sweden to the
shores of the Mediterranean.
The sexes offer no difference in the colouring of their plumage.
Its food consists of insects, such as aphides and other small kinds, to which are added caterpillars, &c.
The whole of the upper surface is greenish ash; a small patch of yellow is situated between the bill and
the eye; the throat, breast, and under surface pale yellow; wings and tail brown, the edge of each feather
being lighter ; feet and bill fleshy brown ; irides dark brown.
The Plate represents an adult male of the natural size.
ey
ti)
.
; r i 2 oe ‘ ’
; ; iar) ek eee vat PL ya ott ee | Re 9 ee eae fed, wnt
. Pi Lue . oe é : a ik ,
a Lorene tril : dort ‘aan hae A iri hy Dean. Astepoia BAS
7 * s . J 4 ; : ry ay)
shay th WE EAR TERETE EER: PREECE tah CECE ERECR CTE: SPECTRE: CRs Sit VOR Riedl Bid ult
} b fica: Sout sare set aioieg. Sabah fo. eeolahed
; : 1y ay if WARD at os SLs Fie 9 DEG: PRETENCE:
t ‘ 1 >
: ‘ i t i tisye & ge j yh. 4 k sg : ‘ 5 i Fi
Pata ulbe ry EE Pi: frit: § Oa, EY OLE Ma ’ t vari pais x oie
. , a The, ra: & fired dvi ee! ey
2 ’ ‘ \ t am r r - , i
P i") i i ( f i ; oF ty i ht a CPE tae iF nde: Be
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\ ‘ . CRE ALE ' ity g \ th. Mh in Pl pinta ye } hunt
t ; u he ~ , « © “ i
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es
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; : Ree
‘ foes = it sereer lsd % 4 enn. at dtenibationl df: “Miele Sh GT: aE Ce, WS say whey gt"
; te vend bah. ache Wee wore
he x : as i ey ae
ecseheanttcal -4pene } siwedise elt (hh SOR Ook Teor dade: ae ke
ii f r é f,, 4 2 \ a on re ~~ . a
j sot {fi ‘ hha sia aie oF abate He UOLTROE ATOLLS, WL, OR EPR ange +h) pier » fret “i j
«Ate bee) Dy yt Jui ; ap Ee i ‘ ic a " ' a d
: D fivcteuste ae: ep Ue MOD RRER Rete: ciliate Gaia ere ot jou hiere “imagen ont ie. ofaybes of P ;
: ' # #2 ife G8), Se5eF yi Be af rain 4 r ‘i ‘ ater ty ays
Bre ef of veri a4 Pipes ie ove eat Dat dail tote dt Peek ait
Ks aonerett quack itil! fora’ dol yiaviiyil ‘3
aij te olnut iebe. ce suindonion ott
: Si i)
Pee
YELLOW WILLOW WREN.
Sylnaleterma; (/tectl/
Dron jira Neiwre hon Stone by J bE. Gouda, Lronted by C Lodimandel.
YELLOW WILLOW WRENN.
Sylvia icterina, Vecll. |
La Bec-fin ictérine.
In form and colouring this species of Willow Wren so nearly resembles the British members of this interesting
group, that it requires an intimate knowledge of its habits, manners, and song to distinguish it from them
with any degree of certainty. It is considered as distinct by the continental naturalists; and M. Temminck,
in his ‘Manuel,’ informs us, that ‘‘ the length of the tail, which is an inch longer than the wings, its forked form,
and the comparative length of the quills and tarsi, are characters by which it may be distinguished from the
two following species CS. ¢rochilus and S. rufa); but it is always very difficult to recognise it by the exami-
nation of a single individual.” To this we may add that the bill is even longer than that of 8. ¢rochilus, while
the wing is quite as short, if not shorter, than that of S. rufa.
In a second remark, M. Temminck states that M. Cantraine has killed this species hopping among the
reed beds in morasses of Ostia in the month of April; and that he himself has killed several in Holland,
where it is less abundant than S. ¢rochilus. It also inhabits France and the Roman States, frequenting the
neighbourhood of water and morasses. It is probably more abundant than is generally supposed, being
frequently confounded with the two species above mentioned.
Its food consists of the small insects and flies, which are attached to the branches and leaves of trees, &c.
Of its nidification and eggs nothing is known. .
Crown of the head and all the upper surface pure olive; stripe over the eye bright yellow; sides of the
neck, chest, and flanks clear yellow; throat and centre of the belly yellowish white; wings and tail ashy
brown bordered with greenish olive; bill and feet brown.
We have figured an adult of the natural size.
NATTE REARS WARBLER.
Sylva Natteren, (Z¢mm./
Diitvin Fon Tature tc on tone by J be Giada.
Printed ba C Hanlin nde
NATTERER’S WARBLER.
Sylvia Nattereri, Temm.
Le Bec-fin Natterer.
Tus delicate little Warbler appears to be a species of common occurrence in the district of Algesiras, in the
South of Spain, where it was first discovered by M. John Natterer of Vienna, after whom it has been named.
Since the period of M. Natterer’s visit to Spain, about the year 1820, this indefatigable naturalist has passed
sixteen years in the Brazils, whence he has lately returned to Vienna, with an exceedingly rich collection of
the productions of that vast country. As a naturalist, and particularly as an ornithologist, we can speak of
M. Natterer in terms of the highest praise; and it is by his discerning and ardent research during his short
residence in Spain, that the Fauna of Europe has been enriched with several species which but for him
would, even at this time, have been unknown to us.
The species here figured is extremely rare in all the collections of Europe: it is in every respect a true
Sylvia, as the genus has been restricted by modern classifiers, and is allied in all its affinities to the Chiffchaff
and Willow Wren of our own island. '
Besides the locality above mentioned, M. Temminck informs us, in the third part of his Manuel, that it is
common in Provence and Switzerland, that it has been killed in the Tyrol, but that it is never seen in the
North of Europe.
Its food consists of flies, small spiders, and other insects.
M. Temminck also informs us that the nests found in Italy were placed on the ground among the grass,
in hilly situations ; were of a spherical shape formed externally of dead leaves, with a lateral opening ;
and that the eggs are of a globular form, four or five in number, and white minutely dotted with reddish.
The top of the head and upper surface ash brown tinged with olive ; from the gape to the upper part of
the eye extends a conspicuous stripe of greyish white; all the under surface silvery grey; wings and tail
brownish ash fringed with olive ; bill and feet brown.
The female differs only in having her tints less clear.
We have figured a male of the natural size.
naw
Lhe ep
Bkee '
a
\
¥
RICHARD’S PIPIT.
Anthus Rachardi; Medl)
Drawn from Waiure he on Store ty J&B. Gould a : Printed by CHnbimondel
Genus ANTHUS.
Gey. Cuar. Bill straight, slender, rather subulated towards the point ; the base of the upper
mandible carinated, and the tip slightly bent downwards and emarginated ; tomia of both
mandibles pressed inwards about the middle. Nostrz/s basal, lateral, oval, partly con-
cealed by a membrane. Tursi generally exceeding the middle toe in length. Toes three
before, and one behind; the outer toe adhering to the middle one as far as the first joint;
hind claw more or less produced. Wangs, the first quill very short, the second rather
shorter than the third and fourth, which are of equal length, and the longest: two of the
scapulars produced, and equal to the quills in length when the wing is closed.
RICHARD’S PIPIT.
Anthus Richardi, Vezd/.
Le Pipit Richard.
We cannot but observe the near relationship which the birds of this group bear to those of the Motacille, or
Wagtails, particularly that division of them to which the illustrious Cuvier gave the subgeneric title of Budytes ;
to this section they offer a very close resemblance in their general contour, in the lengthened form of their
hind claw, and in their habit of frequently raising and depressing the tail, accompanying it at the same time
with a lateral expansion of the feathers.
Although we have no certain proof that such is the case, we have some reason to believe that the northern
and western regions of Africa constitute the true habitat of the Anthus Richardi, and consequently that the
individuals which make their appearance within the precincts of Europe at such irregular intervals have been
driven hither by some unusual cause ; at all events the small number of examples which are recorded to have
been captured in Europe is a sufficient proof that this portion of the globe is not its native country. M.Tem-
minck states that it is often met with in Picardy ; but the British Islands may, perhaps, be considered among
the countries in which it has been most frequently taken, as seldom a year passes without examples falling a
prey to the London birdcatchers while in pursuit of the more favourite Goldfinch and Linnet. Indepen-
dently of the recorded instances of this nature, we know of two that were captured in this way during the
spring of 1836, in the immediate neighbourhood of the metropolis, from one of which the present figure
is taken.
In its actions the Anthus Richard: displays all the activity and alertness of the other members of the genus,
among which it will rank as the largest and one of the most typical ; it never perches on trees, but is always
seen on the ground, where it runs with the greatest rapidity in pursuit of its food, which consists of flies, grass-
hoppers, and other insects.
Of its nidification nothing is known.
The sexes are alike in plumage, and there is no difference of colouring in summer or winter.
Crown of the head and whole upper surface deep brown, each feather margined with pale brown ; stripe
above and below the eye pale brown, inclining to buff; throat white, surrounded by a gorget of oblong dark
brown spots on a lighter ground ; breast and flanks pale brown; abdomen white, slightly tinged with brown ;
the middle tail-feathers deep brown with paler edges, outer feather on each side almost entirely white, the
next having the shaft and base very dark brown and the remainder white ; bill pale brown at the base and
dark brown at the tip; legs and feet yellowish brown; tarsi long and stout; hind claw much produced and
slightly curved.
We have figured a male of the natural size.
‘
ne
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at. ti ; i ib ‘ t LSF haere
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: P! P : : Goi 4 i Povey iif Pets
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uch va
Drow Sion Node & ory Stone by J be Zs Gould,
MEADOW PIPIT.
Anthus pratensis; (Zechst./
Lriniedh ty C Eadimande,
MEADOW PIPIT.
Anthus pratensis, Bechst.
La Pipit Farlouse.
Tue Meadow Pipit is one of the smallest of its tribe, and one of the most common of our indigenous birds ;
it is a permanent resident in the British Islands, and is always to be found in such open situations as heaths,
commons, and swampy tracts of country. Its food is always sought for on the ground, to which it is conse-
quently restricted, and where it may be observed running nimbly along, no less lively in the depth of winter
than in spring and summer. When startled from the ground it rises with a quick vibratory motion of the
wings, uttering at the same time its shrill and well-known chirping cry. It is very generally distributed
throughout the continent of Europe, particularly in Holland and France ; it is also found in Northern Africa,
and a great portion of Asia. Many authors have contended that two species, the Pipit and the Tit Lark of
the older writers, have been confounded; recent observation, however, has fully proved that they are both iden-
tical with our Meadow Pipit, to which we object to apply the term Lark altogether. This erroneous impres-
sion appears to have arisen in consequence of a slight change in the colouring of the plumage at different
seasons of the year; the autumnal plumage being characterized by a tint of fine greenish olive, which in the
course of time gives place to a browner hue. We have ourselves had opportunities of ascertaining the correct-
ness of Mr. Selby’s observations on this point, which we take the liberty of inserting here. ‘In September
and October, after their autumnal or general moult, they assemble in small flocks, resorting to the lower
pastures, and not unfrequently to turnip fields. At this period the renewed plumage differs considerably
from that laid aside, the green of the upper parts being of a much brighter tint, and the whole of the under
parts more deeply tinged with yellow. In this state, the present species is to be recognised as the Pint
Lark. {have omitted no opportunity of becoming satisfied on this head, having examined specimens at all
seasons of the year, and am thoroughly persuaded that the supposed ‘species described as the Pint Lark is
in reality no more than the Common Pipit (7%¢ Lark of authors) in its renewed or winter plumage.
Its usual flight is by short and interrupted jerks ; but in the breeding-season it differs, the bird then rising
by a tremulous and rapid motion of the wings to a considerable height in the air, and commencing its song
when at the greatest elevation, descending afterwards with motionless wing and expanded tail, in a sloping
(sometimes almost perpendicular) direction to the earth, or to the top of some bush. It makes its nest on
the ground, under the shelter of a tuft of herbage, forming it of dry grass interwoven with seed stalks of
plants, and lined with finer grasses or with hair. The eggs are five or six in number, varying in colour, but
the prevailing tint a pale brown, thickly covered with brownish purple red spots and specks. Like the Wag-
tails, it runs with celerity, and feeds upon flies, worms, and other insects.” The nest of this bird frequently
forms a receptacle for the egg of the Cuckoo.
The whole of the upper surface is dark olive green, the centre of each feather being brownish black ; un-
der surface yellowish white, spotted on the sides of the neck and breast with blackish brown; flanks white,
with oblong streaks of a dark colour ; tail blackish brown, the outer feather on each side having the exterior
web white, and being largely tipped with the same colour, the second feather having a small white spot near
the tip; bill and feet brown.
The Plate represents a male and female of the natural size.
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Anthus rufescens ; /Zemum,/
LDravw rome Natere kon Stone ty SHLE. Conia, Lrinted ty CHiakimoanded:
TAWNY PIPIT.
Anthus rufescens, Temm.
La Pipit rousseline.
Tuis elegant species of Pipit, to which M. ‘Temminck has given the specific name of rufescens, is the same as
that described by Bechstein under the name of Anthus campestris, which name M. Temminck states he has
been induced to change to that of rufescens, as campestris is one of the synouyius of the Anthus pratensis, and
is, moreover, a term inapplicable to either of the species.
The present is, with the exception of 4. Richard, the largest of the European Pipits, and may at once
be distinguished by the yellow tinge pervading the whole of its plumage. It is almost strictly terrestrial, as
its lengthened tarsus and hind claw clearly indicate, seldom perching upon trees: hence it is to be seen on
commons, plains, and in open hilly country. M.Temminck says it is common in Germany and France, where
it is migratory, visiting those countries for the purpose of incubation. It is rare in Holland, and we are
not aware of any instance of its being discovered in England. We are informed that, like the rest of its
genus, it constructs a nest on the ground, among herbage or loose clots of earth, laying four or six roundish
eges of a pale grey with violet and russet markings. The outward sexual differences in this species are
not distinguishable, nor do the sexes offer any marked difference of plumage in the various seasons of
the year.
The whole of the upper surface is of a tawny or yellowish grey, the middle of each feather having a slight
dash of brown; the wings, the scapularies, and the lesser and greater wing-coverts, abruptly margined with
yellowish white ; throat white, as is also a large streak which passes over the eye ; the whole of the under
surface light Isabelle yellow ; a few dusky spots commence at the lower mandible. and are thinly dispersed
over the chest; tail somewhat forked, the middle feathers brown, the outer ones nearly white; beak brown ;
legs and claws flesh colour.
The Plate represents a pair of these birds of the natural size.
veg iq
ah ay Piwh
. lla
HME OUD TAS TRS SRB RE aa, Hae titer 8 IVE stevia eet i diag Thi ei Dany tusgal’ wet
a He asd ea 1 ffl Senet loiit ye A VHA ie ms NARS, 46 arin 4 ke Vahhie ae sting veal holiniaol tad
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, ‘ : : EF VE4eS i ears reali } bs Weta iec: eumcTi ) fens asd atid ms
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ROCK OR SHORE PIPIT.
Anthus aquaticus; (Gechs&/
row) from Neoware &ow Stone by S41 Goatd. : Lente ly CA allman
ROCK OR SHORE PIPIT.
Anthus aquaticus, Bechst.
Le Pipit spioncelle.
I the British Islands this species of Pipit is strictly stationary, inhabiting the rocky and elevated portions of
the coast during summer, and the lengthened and muddy shores of the sea during autumn and winter. It
rarely leaves the neighbourhood of the coast unless when following the indentations of bays or the course of
large rivers, particularly those influenced by the tide. Marine insects and worms appear to constitute its
sole food, in the capture of which it displays the address and agility which characterizes all the members of
this group. Its call-note and song are very similar to those of the Common Pipit, from which it may be
always distinguished by its larger size, and by the dusky and more obscure colouring of its plumage. It is an
early breeder, and mostly selects the clefts and ledges of rocks for the site of its nest, which is composed of
various marine grasses, lined with hair and fine vegetable substances ; the eggs are four or five in number, of a
light yellowish grey, with reddish brown specks over the larger end, and sometimes distributed over the
whole surface.
We have some reason to believe that there are two species of Rock Pipits nearly allied to each other, as
we have never been able to find in any of the examples killed in the British Islands that uniform vinous tint
_ we have observed to pervade the breast of the continental examples; neither have we been able to meet with
any specimens in continental collections that strictly accord with the dull and indistinct markings of those of
the British Islands; to this point we would therefore beg to direct the attention of those naturalists who may
possess opportunities of investigating the subject.
Crown of the head, all the upper surface, wings, and tail dark greenish olive, the feathers of the two latter
margined with paler olive; throat whitish ; stripe between the bill and the eye, and all the under surface pale
greenish olive; the sides of the neck and breast ornamented with large spots of dark brown; the outer tail-
feather on each side white ; upper mandible and the tip of the lower black ; the base of the latter yellowish
brown; legs and feet brown.
Our figure is of the natural size.
es j hata asta Vaile
Hiab salmhye ifsiteues wih |
viral Ta eat i aranyg eas
nobencen eet db atl ahh ‘Hy eis &
ser slay ght ety 2s hi, Mi lkae hacthgeaae:
ie alia ite le er ihiae dai:
pethe § e-Mhelve ofyiee ‘die arn
“nate + aa
TREK PIPIT.
Anthus arboreus; (Bechsl/
Drawn ufron Nature be om stone by Sé £. Conta: Lrinted by C Ladnanded.
TREE PIPIT.
Anthis arboreus, Bechst.
Le Pipit des Buissons.
To a superficial observer no two birds can appear more nearly the same than the Tree and the Meadow
Pipits, but on a close examination it will be perceived that a marked and permanent difference exists in the
structure of the hind claw, a circumstance which, although apparently very trifling, materially influences their
respective habits and manners. The hind claw of the Meadow Pipit is long, slender, and almost straight,
while that of the Tree Pipit is short, and decidedly curved; hence, while one naturally frequents the ground,
the other is habitually arboreal: there is also another distinction between these birds, namely, the permanent
residence of one in our island and the regular migration of the other. The Tree Pipit is only a summer
visitant, arriving early in spring, and forming one of the numerous songsters that render this season of the
year so peculiarly delightful. It generally sings while perched upon some tree rising above the hedgerow,
and is often seen to ascend on quivering wing to a moderate elevation and to descend again to the branch
from which it had risen, pouring forth its animated and pleasing song as it descends. As is the case
with many of our migratory songsters, the strains of this bird are most powerful and more constantly uttered
on its first arrival, before the female has reached our shores, and during the season of pairing ; after the work
of incubation has commenced, the song is comparatively but seldom heard.
Its nest is constructed under the shelter of tufts of herbage or small bushes, and is composed of moss,
fibres of roots, and withered grasses, lined with fine dry grass and horse-hair; the eggs, which are four or
five in number, are of a greyish white sprinkled all over with brownish purple specks. .
Its food consists of flies, small beetles and other insects, and their larvee.
The sexes are alike in plumage, and may be thus described :
All the upper surface olive green, the feathers of the head and upper part of the back having the
centre brownish black; wing-coverts margined with yellowish white, forming a double bar across the Wings ;
chin and throat white, passing into dull buffy yellow on the sides of the chest; breast spotted with oblong
marks of brown; flanks spotted with brown; middle of the belly and under tail-coverts greyish white; two
middle tail-feathers pointed and of an olive brown; the exterior feather with the whole of the outer and the
greater part of the inner web white; tip of the second feather also white ; legs and toes yellowish brown.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.
sD ath
a an
a
{
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yy
‘i
al
=
nh
fukay
1
roam tran Natore & ow Stone by J & E Goulds
RED-THROATED PIPIT.
Anthus rufosularis; /Zemm/
Brnieds by C Hadimaada
RED-THROATED PIPIT.
Anthus rufogularis, Brehm.
Le Pipit a gorge rouge.
Tus very interesting species of Pipit must be considered rather as a native of India and Africa than of
Europe; it has nevertheless been killed within the borders of the latter division of the globe, Sicily being, as
we are informed, not unfrequently visited by it. The specimens from which our drawings are taken were sent us
as Sicilian examples by M. Temminck. In size and in the general style of the colouring of the upper surface
this bird exhibits a close resemblance to the Common Pipit of our island, but may be distinguished from that
species and in fact from all the other known members of the group, by the rufous brown of the throat, which
colour frequently proceeds over the chest and abdomen. Of the three specimens forwarded to us, one has
the whole of the under surface of a rich ferruginous brown, another has the throat only of this colour, and
the third has this tint so slightly pervading the under surface as to be scarcely perceptible.
In its habits, manners, and nidification this bird doubtless closely resembles its congeners, but on these
points nothing has as yet been recorded.
The adult in spring has the head, and the whole of the upper surface, wings, and tail blackish brown, each
feather margined with olive brown, which becomes still lighter on the extreme edge; two outer tail-
feathers nearly white; a stripe over the eye, the throat, and breast rich ferruginous brown, the remainder of
the under surface ferruginous buff, the lower part of the breast and flanks ornamented with oblong spots of
dark blackish brown on the centre of each feather ; bill and feet brown.
The female has all the upper surface similarly marked but of a much lighter tint; the stripe over the eye
and the throat only, rich ferruginous brown; under tail-coverts buffy white; the remainder of the under
surface pale buffy white with a conspicuous mark of blackish brown down the centre of each feather ; bill and
feet brown.
The young resembles the adult male, but has the light margins of the upper surface not so extensive ; is
destitute of the ferruginous throat; and has the breast and flanks very numerously marked with oblong spots
of dark brown; bill and feet brown.
Our Plate represents male and female of the natural size.
Drown romLite and omstoneby J&L Goudd:
PIED WAGTAIL.
Motacilla alba, (Zen/
Lente by C Lidimaniicl,
Genus MOTACILLA, Auct.
Gen. Cuar. Beak slender, cylindric, straight; the upper mandible angulated between the
nostrils, its tip laciniated. Scapulary feathers long. Hind claw shorter than the toe,
nearly straight. Tarsi elevated. Taz/ elongated.
PIED WAGTAIL.
Motacilla alba, Lznn.
La Bergeronette grise.
Tux birds supplying the subject of our present notice, though very common, are general favourites: their
form is slender and elegant, their habits inoffensive, and all their varied motions so graceful and active as to
insure for them our notice and regard ; and the generic term applied to them, truly indicative as it is of one
of their very constant actions, is most happily chosen.
The whole length of a fully grown male bird is about seven inches and a half; and in summer the upper
part of the head and neck, the back, middle tail-feathers, chin, throat and breast, are black ; the forehead,
the space round the eyes, the cheeks, and sides of the neck white ; lower part of the breast, the belly and
under tail-coverts also white ; the flanks grey ; wing-feathers black, with broad external edges of white forming
conspicuous bars in the coverts of the quill-feathers ; the two outer tail-feathers on each side white ; legs and
beak black. After the breeding season, a second moult takes place; the chin and throat become white,
leaving only a gorget of black ; and the feathers on the upper parts of the neck and back are dark grey. In
this state it remains during the winter, till the following spring bringing on a partial moult, invests it again
with the plumage first described.
Young birds of the year have the crown of the head and all the upper parts ash-grey, inclining to blueish
grey; wing-coverts broadly edged and tipped with white ; on the upper part of the breast a crescent-shaped
patch of dusky ash, the ends of which extend upwards to the ears in a narrow line on each side of the neck ;
throat, cheeks, under parts of the neck and lower part of the breast, dirty white ; abdomen nearly pure white ;
quills blackish, with an oblong white spot on their inner web.
The old birds choose various localities in which to place their nests. It is sometimes built on the ground,
or in a hole ina pollard-tree or old wall ; sometimes on a grass-grown bank ; and we have found it, concealed
with great care, in a depression on the side of a hay-rick. The nest is formed of moss, dried grass, roots
and wool, with a lining of feathers and hair: the eggs, four or five in number, are nine lines and a half long
by seven lines and a half in breadth; the ground-colour greyish white, minutely specked all over with ash-
brown. The birds frequent the margins of shallow streams and ponds, and are often seen to wade a short
distance to secure the larvee and flies on which they feed. When the young are able to quit the nest, the
parent birds entice them by their example over newly mown meadows, and the smooth lawns and grass-plots
of pleasure-grounds. Here, secure of their footing, every motion is agile and graceful, darting and running
with the rapidity of thought in pursuit of their various insect food. Their flight is undulating, performed by
short jerks; and their notes, which are most frequently uttered while on wing, are far from disagreeable. With
the decline of the year these birds partially desert the more inland districts, and resort in considerable
numbers to the marshy margins of rivers within the influence of the tides.
The Pied Wagtail is common and stationary over the whole of the southern part of the European Continent.
It also remaims during winter dispersed over the southern counties of England; yet we learn from Mr. Selby
and Bewick, that even so far north only as Durham, it migrates southward in October, and does not again.
make its appearance till the following March; and Mr. Low in his Natural History of Orkney tells us, that
it continues there the shortest time of any of the migratory birds that come to build, and is never to be seen
after the end of May. It is also known to migrate still further north ; but, as might be expected, the higher
the degree of latitude attained, the shorter is the duration of the visit.
M. Temminck, in his Manual of the Birds of Europe, includes two species of Pied Wagtails, the IZ. lugudbris
of Pallas, and the M7. alba of Linneus. We have been so disappointed hitherto in our attempts to obtain both
species from continental collectors, as almost to induce us to suspect their existence as distinct. All the
specimens we have as yet been able to procure, prove to be referable to our own single species under some
one of its various appearances; and we may add, that the last edition of the Fauna Suecica contains only MW. alba.
The Wagtails, as they are usually and very appropriately termed, are common to the Old World. India
supplies several species, some of which so closely resemble those inhabiting Europe, as to have been con-
sidered only as varieties, if not identical. Neither of the continents of America, however, if we recollect
rightly, has as yet been ascertained to possess a single species of true Motacilla.
Our Figures represent two birds of the natural size, in the plumage of winter and summer.
pen: iio ‘ail’: i. aad
ms) age ft Meee erg | ‘4 Mu id eb
&
ide
Lv iarh
WIHT
Dravin from Netare & ow Stone by J kE. Gould.
TE-WINGED WAG TAIL.
Motacilla lugubris, (7ad//
Printeudlyy Celnaaccihels
—_
WHITE-WINGED WAGTATIL.
Motacilla lugubris, Pall.
La Bergeronnette lugubre.
On referring to the accompanying description of the White Wagtail, our readers will find that considerable
confusion exists respecting the three species of Pied Wagtails inhabiting Europe; there cannot, however, be
the slightest doubt that the present bird is very distinct from the one so commonly dispersed over the British
Islands, and also from the White Wagtail, so abundant in France and the temperate portions of the continent
of Europe: independently of its larger size, and the white colouring of its wings, the Motacilla lugubris may
be readily distinguished from its European congeners by the conspicuous black mark between the bill and the
eye. Its true habitat is also much more eastwardly than that of the other two species, being scarcely ever
known to advance westward of the central parts of Europe. M. Temminck informs us that it is common in
the Crimea and in many parts of Hungary, and that it is very sparingly dispersed in Italy, Provence, and Picardy.
It is also found in Egypt, and in all probability in many parts of Asia Minor and the southern parts of Siberia.
It is extremely common in Japan, where, according to M. Temminck, it frequents the streams of mountain
valleys.
In its food and general economy, as well as in its seasonal changes, it strictly resembles the other members
of the genus.
In summer, the back part of the head and neck, a line from the bill to the eye, and from the eye to the
occiput, back, rump, six middle tail-feathers, throat and chest are black; the shoulders, tips and outer edges
of the primaries dark greyish brown; the remainder of the wings white, with the exception of the tertiaries,
which are brown in the centre ; bill and feet black. :
In winter the upper part of the throat is pure white; and the back and scapularies uniform grey instead of
black.
We have figured two birds, one in the plumage of summer, and the other in that of winter.
OE EEE
¥
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WHITH WAGTAIL.
Motacilla alba; Zenm/
Drow yiromy Nature & on stone ay SEL Could, Lrontea by CHilimonde,.
a
4
WHITE WAGTAIL.
Motacilla alba, Lenn.
La Bergeronette grise.
In the early part of the present work we figured the Pied Wagtail, which is a permanent resident in our
island, as the true Motacilla alba of Linneus: subsequent experience has, however, convinced us that the true
Motacilla alba, a species so common in France and Europe generally, never visits our island, and it would
appear that our bird is almost equally unknown in the temperate portions of the Continent. The question
therefore arises as to the species to which it must be referred: we ourselves are inclined to believe it quite
distinet from Motacilla lugubris, a species inhabiting the eastern and southern portions of the Continent,
and with which it has by some naturalists been considered as identical; should this ultimately prove to be the
case, the English bird will require to be characterized under a new specific appellation. The Channel appears
in fact to constitute the boundary of these species, as is also the case with Motacilla neglecta and Motacilla
avd.
The true Motacila alba differs from our species more in its colouring than in any other respect : neither
in its full nuptial dress nor at any other period does it exhibit the deep black colouring on the back which
is SO conspicuous in the British species; at least after the examination of a great number of specimens, we
have never been able to trace the slightest indication of it at any age.
The White Wagtail frequents meadows, particularly those in the neighbourhood of running streams, also
villages, cities, belfries, towers, and similar situations. It is a common species in Africa and the high lands
of India.
Its food consists of flies, millipedes, various other insects, and their larve.
The nest is placed in any convenient situation that may offer; in the clefts of rocks, under the arches of
bridges, in towers, or among hollow trees ; the eggs are six in number, and are of a bluish white, spotted
with black. )
In spring the forehead, sides of the neck, under surface, and the two outer tail-feathers, are pure white ;
occiput, nape, throat, chest, middle tail-feathers, and upper tail-coverts, black; back and sides pure ash
colour; wing-coverts blackish brown bordered with white.
The female differs in having the white less clear, and the black mark on the occiput not so extensive.
In winter the throat and front of the neck are pure white; on the lower part of the neck a collar of deep
black ; all the ash of the upper parts less clear than in summer.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.
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YELLOW HEADED WAGTAIL. -
Motacilla citreola, (Z2///
Lrenprom lift ond on Stone by Tt Z. Contd.
Lritted by Clidimank:
YVYELLOW-HEADED WAGTAIL.
Motacilla citreola, Pall.
La Bergeronette citrine.
A parr of this very rare and beautiful species of Wagtail has been very obligingly lent to us for this Work by
Lieut. Col. W. H. Sykes, whose rich collection of birds from the Dukhun has at all times been open to our
inspection, and has afforded us opportunities of ascertaining the fact, that many of our rare European birds,
which more exclusively belong to the eastern portions of that continent, are in reality natives of the western
countries of Asia, whence, it would appear, they occasionally migrate to the adjoining districts of Europe, so as
to form a connecting link uniting the productions of Europe to those of Asia; and this appears to be the
case with the bird before us, whose rare and uncertain visits, according to M. Temminck, to Oriental Russia
and the Crimea have afforded little opportunity of ascertaining either its habits or the circumstances connected
with its nidification ; but we may reasonably expect, from its close affinity in appearance to our well-known
Yellow Wagtail (Wotacilla flava, Ray,), its habits and manners, as well as its mode of nidification, that it is
somewhat similar. In the Proceedings of the Committee of Science and Correspondence of the Zoological
Society of London, Lieut. Col. Sykes briefly mentions, that this bird has the habits, manners, aspect and size
of Budytes melanocephala, and, like it, is solitary and only found in the vicinity of rivers ; but Colonel Sykes
did not see the two species together. Larvee of water insects and greenish mud were found in the stomach.
Colonel Sykes expresses his belief, that this species together with the Budytes melanocephala and Budytes
Beema, all possessing the long hind claw, do not habitually perch, but like other birds with a similar claw, as
in the genera Anthus, Alauda, Mirafra, and Fringilla crucigera, Temm., nocturnate on the ground. We
regret that neither our own observations, nor the numerous works to which we have access, will enable us to
add much to this short notice ; we may state, however, that we coincide with the views of M. Temminck in
considering that Hungary and the Archipelago may also be occasionally visited by it.
In size the Motacilla citreola is somewhat inferior both to JZ, flava and neglecta, from both of which it may
readily be distinguished, in its spring plumage, by the fine citron yellow which covers the top of the head, the
cheeks, and the whole of the under surface. A crescent-shaped band of black crosses the occiput, and dark
ash colour slightly tinged with grey pervades the upper plumage ; the middle and the greater coverts of the
wings are edged with white; the tail-feathers black, with the exception of the two outer ones on each side,
which are white.
The males and females in winter, says M. Temminck, have not the black occipital band, that part being
then yellow like the rest of the head.
Our Plate represents a male and female, proved to be such by dissection, in their summer plumage; the
lower bird in the Plate bemg the male.
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Drawn, fom Lif & on Stone ty J be L. Could,
YELLOW WAGTAIL.
Motacilla flava ; (Ray).
UY“ ns
arinted, by Cillinanated
YELLOW WAGTATIL.
Motacilla flava, Ray.
Budytes flava, Cuv.
Tux present species as well as that we have denominated Motacilla neglecta have been separated by M. Cuvier
from the Motacilla of authors, and formed into a new genus under the name of Budytes, in consequence of
its lengthened hind claw indicating an approach to the genus Anthus, or Pipits. Although we see the force
of M. Cuvier’s views, still we feel rather inclined in this instance to adhere to the old arrangement, as the
general habits and manners of the Wagtails are so much alike; at the same time a direct union may be dis-
covered between the pied species and those of more gaudy plumage, both as regards the style of colouring
and structure, as in the Motacilla boarula, that bird having the fine yellow plumage so characteristic of Cuvier’s
subdivision, together with the elongated contour of body and shortened hind claw which distinguish those to
which M. Cuvier would exclusively apply the term Motacilla. It must, however, be allowed that the birds in
question form the extreme limits of one genus, and indicate where another commences ; still we think grounds
like these scarcely warrant the formation of new genera, otherwise they would indeed become multitudinous.
We have, nevertheless, not felt ourselves at liberty to omit the notice of the genus Budytes, established as it is
by so eminent a naturalist as Cuvier, whose clear and comprehensive views cannot be too highly appreciated ;
but having stated our opinion, will leave it to the intelligent reader to decide for himself, whether to retain
the old term Motacilla, or adopt the more recent title as a generic appellation.
This delicate and showy bird visits us early in spring, frequenting open plains and meadows, particularly
fields of rising wheat, pastures for cattle, and arable lands. It is a bird sufficiently familiar to allow of close
approach, and may be observed full of life and vivacity, running nimbly over the turf, catching flies and
other insects, which constitute its food. Hence it is often found near flocks of sheep and herds of cattle,
whence its French name Bergeronnette. It continues with us during the summer, and leaves us again early in
autumn, the adults invariably leading the way, and are followed by the young at a subsequent period. Its note
is rather shrill, but resembles that of the other birds of the genus. It breeds on the ground, constructing a
nest of loose fibres and dried grasses lined with hair. The eggs are four or five in number, of a yellowish
white colour mottled with darker yellow brown. We have every reason to believe that the present species is
equally common throughout the western portions of Europe, but has been overlooked or confounded with the
bird we have denominated Motacilla neglecta.
In the adult male, the bill is black ; irides hazel; the whole of the head and back of the neck pale olive
green, over the eye a streak of pure yellow; back, scapulars, rump and tail-coverts rather darker than the
colour of the head ; quill-feathers dusky, edged with yellowish white tail dusky, the two middle feathers
tinged with olive, and the two outer feathers on each side having their external webs almost entirely white ;
legs black, hind claw long ; the whole of the under parts bright yellow.
The female differs in having the plumage less brilliant, the yellow of the under parts being much paler.
We have figured a male and female of the natural size.
ae . =o va c :
. ; a, yw
: : ny * us, Pee can Foe rae
' ; A } oo r
‘ ‘ f thee ; f ; & anh wre 4d pe as
tad ' ‘
* * e Ue U
. * ’ - > * » ; yh ¢ 7 PY
4 : i i ‘ : 5 dee el a ‘ ee ike
eae
Ls om er Bie
: so geet OPPs te SERCE Fay vist se ei
a
neh i hie cise, adit
GREY HEADED WAGTAIL.
Motacilla neglecta, iA Gould).
Drawn fiom Liye bon Stone ty J be Fh Coukel Lranied by CZndlimandes,
GREY-HEADED WAGTAIL.
Motacilla neglecta, Gould.
Budytes neglecta, Cuv.
Havine received this bird in considerable abundance from the Continent at the same period of the year in
which the Yellow Wagtail visits England, we were struck with the difference between the two; we therefore
diligently examined the works of Buffon, Linneus, and Temminck, and found that each of these authors
accurately describes the present bird under the name of Motacilla fava ; but upon turning to the work of our
English naturalist Ray, we found that his description of the Yellow Wagtail truly agreed with our species,
and that the Continental authors had in their works applied his name to the bird now in question, a species
possessing totally different characters, and with which Ray does not appear to have been acquainted. Our
intention, therefore, in figuring the present bird under the new name of Motacilla neglecta, is to secure to the
Yellow Wagtail the name originally applied to it by our distinguished countryman ; recognising in the bird
here figured a species distinct from the Yellow Wagtail, with which it has hitherto been confounded. To
prevent any suspicion that the two birds are merely varieties, we took the trouble of procuring from various
parts of the Continent, examples, both male and female, of Motacilla neglecta, a species not found in England,
which we compared with both sexes of our British JZ. flava, and had the pleasure of placing several examples
of both sorts on the table before the Meeting of the Committee of Science and Correspondence of the Zoolo-
gical Society of London, on the 12th of July 1832; and in the printed Report of Proceedings, our opinions
were first recorded. Although not visiting England, we presume the JZ. neglecta to be extensively spread
over the Continent : we have received it in a recent state, shot in the neighbourhood of Paris. On the 28th of
May last, males and females were killed by N. C. Strickland, Esq., in Sweden, who kindly favoured us
with the loan of his specimens. From the account of this gentleman, their manners are very different from
those of our Yellow Wagtail, running about with the tail elevated and the wings hanging down and spread ;
and so singular was their appearance that he was induced to make a drawing of the birds in this attitude,
which he has kindly submitted to our inspection. We have also received this bird from the Himalaya Moun-
tains. As our acquaintance with this species is extremely limited, although on the Continent it is so well known,
we avail ourselves of the account of this bird in the work of M. Temminck, where it will be found described
under the name of JZ. flava.
This eminent naturalist informs us that it inhabits meadows and the banks of small streams, and is found
generally in the northern and central parts of Europe.
The head and back of the neck are of a pure blueish ash-colour ; the rest of the upper parts are of an
olive green ; a white line extends from the beak above the eyes, and another from the lower mandible passes
below the orifice of the ears; the lower parts are of a bright yellow; the quills and middle tail-feathers blackish,
edged with yellowish white, the two outer tail-feathers white ; the tail slightly rounded and extending beyond
the wings only an inch and nine lines ; the posterior claw long and arched. Length of the bird six inches.
The female has the upper surface more clouded with ash-colour, the under surface less lively, and the throat
is yellowish white.
The young, with considerable resemblance to the female, are of a dull ash-colour above, and yellowish white
below ; the breast is sometimes blotched or waved with brown.
Flies and aquatic insects form their principal food ; their nest is built in holes in the ground in meadows, or
at the roots of trees ; the eggs are six in number, of a greenish olive, with light flesh-coloured blotches.
We have figured a male and female in their adult plumage, of the natural size.
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TREY WAGTAIL.
Motacilla Boarula, (“Azxm/
Drown trom Lite and on Stone by T&F v Trnied by CLiulimandd.
GREY WAGTAITIL.
Motacilla Boarula, Lath.
La Bergeronnette jaune.
Turs elegant and graceful species is indigenous in Great Britain, but performs periodical migrations within
the limits of our island, visiting the southern counties during the winter, and returning northwards to its
breeding places as the spring advances, when it is by no means uncommon in Scotland and the border
counties.
In habits and manners the Wagtails have all a general similarity ; but the present species may be especially
distinguished by its finer contour, the superior sprightliness of its air, and the activity of its movements ; not
only running nimbly and rapidly along the ground, but perching also on trees. More solitary than its con-
geners, it seldom congregates, but is found dispersed in pairs along the edges of limpid streams, frequenting
more rarely the dry and open pastures.
According to Mr. Selby, it arrives at its northern breeding places in April, where, ona stony bank or shelf
of rock forming the margin of a stream, it constructs a nest of moss and dried grasses lined with hair; the
female laying six eggs, of a yellowish grey blotched with darker shades of the same colour, and usually pro-
ducing two broods in the year. The process of incubation and rearing its young being over, it retires in
September, or the beginning of the following month, the parent birds and their young migrating together.
The present species is extensively spread throughout the northern portions of the European Continent,
and we have received it also from the highlands of India.
The grey Wagtail, like the more typical of its family, exhibits considerable variety in its summer and
winter plumage, a circumstance which we have endeavoured to elucidate in the annexed Plate, from which it
will be seen that during the breeding season and summer months the plumage is not only generally brighter,
but that the throat becomes black in both sexes, although in the female the hue is not so deep. It would
seem that another moult takes place in autumn, after which the black of the throat entirely disappears, and a
yellow tinge assumes its place, from which fact the present species has been occasionally confounded with the
yellow Wagtail ; it may, however, at once be distinguished by its more slender and symmetrical form of body, the
grey colour of the back, and the bright sulphur hue of the rump. Above the eye there is a streak of white,
and another below; this last the least conspicuous. The under parts are bright gamboge-yellow; wings dark
grey, coverts tipped with white; middle tail-feathers black; outer one on each side white ; the next white
on its external edge: total fence eight inches, of which the tail measures four.
Its food consists of insects, especially aquatic varieties, and their larvae, in pursuit of veiioh it may be
frequently observed wading fearlessly in the shallow parts of the stream, displaying grace and agility in every
action.
Our Plate gives the male in his summer and winter dress ; but little differences exist in the plumage of the
Sexes.
i hak otra st Quinte’ ape fr) wigan ont BADE Tsetislat wer bo wtiegil- abt
Q ; hos hestiie? ai agen we’ yd Gee oil oe hi, bs oF out L aiesws, went :
: bi te liais leeiy 8-Be oved Alp tan itt od ars tamer bas wade
} ns ht » sori ies sotoqne = i iy iweiih ati td talsgeachs |
; ; hid’ nslfe on + Uhicean hag dcdanien piacere yino * i
; at, j ) if feadvoapadly bie t ai toad sity! FEQIOS cahiss ti eto
‘ene gre bus wih of? qv sont
‘ : ou ati in avert 3 ydie? all os wibioood,
‘ ‘ ried 1H autos, arto ote of gitsanpt, door to
hal theilstald youy detwalloy 9 to wees: xi ia yolyal stmt
: ; uit Jo eessomg SET anee alt at ehooid ‘om vetioeh
° Cae witty : : tao guivoliot odt Yo yerisn igsek orf} x0 cdensiqoe
ditegeoD assqomnt oft to: £4 ty hao, visrianstxs et an0q4 inonrug Sif h-
; y iduidl ot avott ole ti bovicost gead-owhas
t ai n } oe od ool fiaty id (org of f
i 15 dtabeinls ot betnovasiae oved sw daidw sosatansioid © he cele tater
" : Hue. ab oemnaes alt ya: Ya t ad? youl ted? cage oe lie
j “tel: oat gfade hat deuodils 29 liod at donald somessd jeondy, oft tad? td
“4 fs oft to A4ald oft dottwr softs amoten.ci souks eoobst oor wsdtonds-tedt mesea
fi ; 10 goed: znd anivongad today ot to 2 doth sad aril ei 2 Meanie orouit wollay
; had t vf Baal ay oct goon ie wovawod Cam tt listpe wolloy
i 3 Ae + Ot a¥0: art oat to occt ghey tbat it-olt haw. dood & ad to ‘usoloo Ter
a iid? sun's ebatt oll con omen lsu! sdf test atd) ; -woled veddanas bas.
aft pohly obin s oO se tie; doald eruhiest-lest-olbbiar ¢ oitabe dtiv hoqqit, atatos Ne ae
rirendet fiat, od? doidw to wadeai fats oi iol Ieiet : ouho Enerrotea ete a
‘ i dvtelve: ui seven aioe bas naliomay vissepa ylisisoqes ,alzorai Yo ataiands “book ae
lrg : cincrita ott to wollada oli ay lazolias- auihaw herivado- iising”
ont 1 nig teixs sgsitth olasif ind peered joiniw has 19HKABe ak ii fom : oil a sla iy
od aise IGA ai sda a Bee Kate coHpenany sink
*
l. FIRE CRESTED WRENN. 2.GOLDEN CRESTED WREN.
Regulus igmicapillus, / rem. Regulus vulgaris; / Czy. yh
Draven. from Life and on Stone by J&L. Cowtd: : LP Punkeds CY CLinllmandel
Genus REGULUS, Cuww.
Gen. Cuar. Beak very slender, short, straight, slightly compressed laterally ; the upper
mandible slightly laciniated towards the tip. Nostri/s covered with two recumbent feathers.
Wings rounded. Tarsus longer than the middle toe.
FIRE-CRESTED WREN.
Regulus ignicapillus, Briss.
Le Roitelet a triple bandeau.
Tue beautiful little birds which compose this genus are distinguished at once by their diminutive size, by the
rich golden crown of their heads, and by the minute comb-like feather which covers their nostrils. Although
so diminutive, they are a courageous, spirited, hardy, and active family; enduring, even in the cold countries
of the North, the severities of the hardest winter. Their habits, food, nidification, the number and colour of
their eggs, bring them in close connexion with the Titmice, while their more feeble but sweetly modulated
song, and comparatively weak bill indicate their alliance to the Sylviade, from which combination of characters
it may be a matter of doubt whether its true station is among the former or the latter. On this point we
leave the reader to form his own conclusions ; although, for ourselves, we are inclined to consider its alliance
to the Titmice as based upon the most solid grounds. .
We have, however, to notice a new claimant in one of the present family, to a place in the Fauna of Great
Britain, which has been long known as a continental species under the name of R. ignicapillus. The authority
we possess for adding this name to the list of British Birds rests not upon our own observation, but upon the
testimony of an accurate and attentive observer of nature, the Rev. L. Jenyns, of Swaffham Bulbeck, Cam-
bridgeshire, who exhibited a recent specimen (accidentally killed near his own residence, ) before the Committee
of Science and Correspondence of the Zoological Society of London, at the meeting of the 14th of August
1832.
If this bird has been hitherto overlooked in England, the omission has arisen from its close similarity to the
common species ; we have therefore figured both in one Plate, that their differences may be more clearly per-
ceived. The true habitat of the Fire-crested Wren appears .to be confined to the southern portions of Europe,
being found in abundance in France, Belgium, and the eastern provinces. In its habits, manners, food, and
nidification, it strictly resembles the Golden-crested Wren, from which it differs in plumage in the following
points. Its crest is more fiery ; the sides of the neck and top of the back more tinged with a golden lustre ;
and in the alternate stripes of black and white, which occupy the sides of the face, both above and below the
eye; the under surface is also rather more grey ; its size is the same, or as nearly so as possible.
GOLDEN-CRESTED WREN.
Regulus vulgaris, Cuz.
Le Roitelet ordinaire.
Te Golden-crested Wren is the smallest of the European Birds, and is generally dispersed in every region
from the Arctic circle to the utmost limit of the warm and sultry regions of the South : in the British Isles it is
to be found throughout every district, inhabiting woods, coppices and hedgerows, but especially plantations of
Fir and Oak, where they appear to be companions with several of the species of the Tits, particularly Parus
ceruleus and ater, with which they may be generally observed engaged in scrutinizing the highest and out-
most branches of trees, clinging with ease and dexterity to the under surface, prying inquisitively into every
crevice in search of insects and their larvee, which, with tender buds and small seeds, constitute their food.
We have observed that this species, as well as the Long-tailed Titmouse, which it also sometimes accom-
panies, is in the habit of traversing with a certain degree of order and regularity considerable extent of dis-
trict, returning nearly at a given time to the same locality, so as to perform a circuit of several miles in the
course of a single day. Their common call, which is constantly repeated as if to keep the family together,
is a weak but shrill cry, so closely resembling that of the Creeper (Certhia familiaris), as scarcely to be dis-
tinguished from it. The song, however, which is poured out at the season of nidification is plaintive, sweet
and melodious. It constructs a beautiful little rounded nest of moss and lichens, warmly lined with feathers,
which is artfully suspended on the under surface of a fir branch, usually near its extremity, and among the
thickest foliage, laying from seven to ten very small eggs of a yellowish white colour.
The plumage of the male is of a uniform olive green on the upper surface, the wing-primaries and the
tail being brown; the secondaries barred with black and white ; the head is ornamented with a beautiful silky
golden crest, with an outward border of black capable of elevation or depression at pleasure; the space
between the eye and the base of the beak is white, while in the Fire-crested Wren the same part is black ;
the whole of the under surface is grey, more or less tinged with olive ; the beak black ; tarsus greenish yellow.
We have figured a male and female of the Golden-crested Wren, and a male only of the Fire-crested,
omitting the female of the latter, as there is no distinguishing characteristic.
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aye : uh 7 _* pa, ius +. C. Lag ee y st ik ‘ ; sii My % re a he . 13 ae aT: bh 1a) i X ‘
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DALMATIAN REGULUS.
Regulus modestus.
Drann foorre Nitere be om Stone by 7 ALE. Contd. Frinted by C Ritimomal
DALMATIAN REGULUS.
Regulus modestus, Mzhz.
A sINGLE specimen of this interesting little bird has been sent to us by the Baron de Feldegg of Frankfort,
to whom our acknowledgements are due, not only for this instance of his liberality in consigning to our care,
at the risk of loss and injury, a bird probably unique in the collections of Europe, but for many other similar
instances of disinterested generosity.
The only history of this bird which we have been able to collect was that written on the label attached to it
by the gentleman above mentioned, and is as follows: ‘‘I shot this bird, which on dissection proved to be a
male, in Dalmatia in the year 1829.” We were informed at the same time that it was not known to any of
the German ornithologists, and consequently that it had not received a specific title; this we have ventured
to give, and suggest the term modestus, in allusion to its chaste plumage, and to the absence of the crest,
which forms so conspicuous a feature in the other species of the genus, with which we have carefully
compared it, and have no hesitation in assigning it a place amongst them as a distinct and genuine species.
Judging from its plumage, we believe that the example is fully adult.
Its most conspicuous character are the three yellow stripes which ornament the head; the brighter and
most highly coloured of these marks, contrary to what obtains in any of the other Regu/i, being that over
each eye, while the coronal stripe is palest, and consists of feathers similar in length to those which cover
the rest of the head.
Our Plate represents the bird in two different attitudes, to exhibit more clearly its characters and
colouring. |
With the exception of the stripes on the head, the whole of the upper surface is delicate olive green,
becoming abruptly paler on the rump ; the quills and tail are brown, edged with pale yellow, which is more
conspicuous on the secondaries ; two transverse bands of the same colour cross the shoulders ; the whole of
the under surface is pale greenish white; bill and tarsi brown.
The figures are of the natural size.
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