The Mammalia constitute the highest class of animals. They are generally covered with hair, and all suckle their young They occupy the wall cases on the ground floor, and part of the middle of the hall. The collection contains nearly 200 species, belonging to 120 genera.

Cases 1 to 4

Contain the Apes and Monkeys of the Old World. In case 1 the Anthropoid, or man-like apes are represented by a young Chimpanzee (Troglodytes niger) from W. Africa (the adult animal attains a height of nearly [unclear: five] and the Silvery Gibbon (Hylobates leuciscus). The Gibbons are very active, and have excessively long arms. It will be noticed that neither the Gibbon nor the Chimpanzee have any tail.

The next group includes the Catarrhine Monkeys. We are the Entellus, or Sacred Monkey of India ([unclear: Semno] entellus), with its young one hanging round [unclear: its]. The Colobus (Colobus bicolor), from Africa; [unclear: the] Monkey (Cercopithecus cephus); the [unclear: Pig] Monkey (Macacus nemestrinus), &c. The [unclear: genus], so called from the resemblance of [unclear: their] to those of dogs, contains the Baboons. We [unclear: have] Chema (Cynocephalus porcarius), the Baboon ([unclear: Cyno] babouin), and the Mandrill (Papio mormon). This specimen is quite young, a full-grown animal measuring four feet in height.

Cases 5 and 6.

[unclear: Cases] the Platyrhine Monkeys of America, distinguished by the distance between the nostrils, and generally having a prehensile tail. These are represented by the Black Spider Monkey (Ateles ater), the Golden [unclear: the] (Mycetes laniger), the Negro Monkey (Lago-

thrix humboldti), two species of Capuchis [unclear: Mount] (Cebus), the curious Douroucouli (Nyctipithecus [unclear: tri] tus), and the Squirrel Monkey (Chrysothrix sciureus).

The Marmosets form a family by themselves ([unclear: Heplidœ]). They are represented by the Common [unclear: Mar] (Jacchus vulgaris), and the beautiful orange Silky [unclear: Man] Moset (Midas rosalia).

Cases 7 and 8.

These contain the Lemurs, or Prosimiœ, which are represented by ten species belonging to eight different [unclear: great] The Black Lemur (Lemur niger) is remarkable for the difference between the two sexes, both of which are exhibited. Propithecus diadema has particularly long and soft fur. The Potto (Perodicticus potto) has No finger. In the Indri (Indris brevicaudatus) the tail is rudimentary. The Lemurs are nocturnal animals, with large eyes.

Cases 9 to 11.

These contain the Rodents, the Bats, the Insectivom, and the Edentata.

The Bats, which are the only mammals that can really fly, are in Case 9. The most interesting are the large Flying Fox, of Samoa (Pteropus whitmeei), and thefl Nosed Bat (Nyctinomus indicus). The name Flying is taken from the shape and colour of the head of animal. There is no real relationship between it and true fox. It feeds upon fruit only.

The Rodents, or Gnawing animals, distinguished their fore teeth, are placed in Cases 9, 10, and are generally small animals, the largest being [unclear: Capebara] (Hydrochœrus capybara). This animal, as well the Paca (Cœlogenys paca), the Agouti (Dasyprocta [unclear: ginosa]), and the Cavy (Cavia spixi), [unclear: inhabit] America. The common Guinea-pig is a species [unclear: of] The Beaver (Castor fiber) is well-known on account [unclear: of] habits. Its tail is flat, and covered with scales, [unclear: and] toes are webbed.

The Marmots include the European species ([unclear: the] marmotta) and the Prairie Dog of N. America ([unclear: if] mys pruinosus).

The Souslik (Spermophilus citillus), of which there many species, connects the Marmots with the Squirrel page 9 of these there are many kinds, some being large, as Sciu bicolor, and others small, as the Palm Squirrel ([unclear: Schiu] maclellandi). The English Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) Represented by a specimen from Russia, in its winter coat of grey. In England it does not thus change its color in the winter. The Flying Squirrel ([unclear: Sciuropterus]) has a membrane stretched from its fore to [unclear: its] legs, which supports it in its leaps from tree to tree. It can not really fly.

Re Hamster (Cricetus frumentarius) lays up in its narrows large stores of grain, which it carries in its cheek

The Watfr Rats, or Voles (Arvicola amphibius), live near water, and the entrance to their burrows is generally below the surface.

The Lemming (Lemnus norvegicus) is found in Norway. Occasionally extraordinary migrations take place among them, nearly the whole number quitting a district. They move in a direction due west until they reach the sea; they then march straight into it, and all are drowned.

The Beaver Rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) is remark being one of the very few mamma's, not marsupial that inhabit Australia. The Porcupine ([unclear: Hystrix]) is clothed with long, spiny quills instead of hair; but in the American Tree Porcupine ([unclear: Cercolabes]) the quills are short, and for the most part hidden by the hair. It will be noticed that this Porcupine has, like most of the American monkeys, a prehensile tail.

The Insectivora are in Case 11. They are not numerous. The most interesting are the Mole (Talpa europea) is which the eyes are buried in the fur. The Hedge-hog [unclear: the] europeus), and the Field Mice (Sorex).

The Edentata are not a numerous, but a very peculiar group. They also are in Case 11. They are distinguished by having few or no teeth in their jaws. The Pangolin ([unclear: this] tricuspis) is covered with scales like a reptile. It has no teeth. The Armadillo (Busypus septemcinctus) is covered with an almost complete suit of armour; it has a few teeth. The Ant-eater (Myrmecophaga jubata, and tamandua) has the head drawn out into a tube, through which it can protrude a very long tongue. It has no teeth, but the body is covered with hair. The (Bradypus tridactylus) has rudimentary teeth. It page 10 lives among trees, from the branches of which it hangs by means of its long claws. It is by no means a sluggish animal when in its natural conditions; but when taken from the trees and placed on the ground, it can hardly move; and hence arose its name.

Cases 12 to 14

contain the Marsupial or Pouched animals, in which the young are born in a very imperfect state, and placed the mother in a pouch on the abdomen, in which they remain during the whole period of suckling. With exception of the true Opossum (Didelphis azarœ, in case 14 of America, they are only found in Australia, Tasmaina, New Guinea, and the Molucca Islands. About 129 species are known, and it is remarkable how much they differ, and how they represent most of the divisions the higher or placental Mammals. For instance, Ruminants are represented by the Kangaroos; the Carnivora, by the Australian cats and Tasmanian tiger; the Insectivora, by the Bandicoots; and the Lemurs by the Australian opossums.

In the Kangaroo (Macropus major) the muzzle covered with hair, while in the Wallaby (Halmatria ualabatus) and in the Wallaroo, or Rock Kangana (Osphranter robustus), it is naked.

The Wombat (Phascolomys wombat) represents the Rodents among the higher animals. It burrows in the ground, and lives principally upon roots. [unclear: The] or native Bear (Phascolarctos cinereus) lives among gum-trees and feeds upon the young shoots; but it after descends to the ground during the night. The Phalanger (Phalangister viverrina) is called Opossum in Australia. The tail is prehensile and destitute of hair at the end. The Flying Phalanger (Belideus flavigaster) a membrane stretched between its legs similar to that of the Flying Squirrel, and it uses it for the same purpose. The Native Rabbit of W. Australia ([unclear: Peragalea]) has very long ears, whence its name. The [unclear: Band] (Perameles nasuta) feeds upon insects and roots. Although in appearance something like a rat, it will noticed that its feet resemble those of a kangaroo.

The Myrmecobius (Myrmecobius fascktus) is an habitant of Western Australia. It feeds upon ants. The female has no pouch, but the young are carried about page 11 unprotected hanging on to the teats. The Native Cat (Dasyurus viverrinus) is found both in Australia and Tasmaina. It differs from the larger species (D. maculatus) in not having the tail spotted. The Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacinus cynocephalus) is more like a wolf than a tiger. It is said to be very destructive to lambs, but it is not [unclear: a] animal. The Monotreme the lowest form of Mammals, present in their structure many resemblances to birds. Only two different kinds are known. The Platypus, or Duck Bill (Platypus anatinus), sometimes known under the name of Ornithorhynchus paradoxus, has feet fitted for swimming, and the male has a spur on the hind foot. It lives in holes in the banks of rivers, and is generally to be found in the water. The Porcupine ant-eater (Echidna hystrix) has no teeth, and a long, pointed nose, with a small opening at the end. The body is covered with hair and spines intermixed, and the feet are formed for burrowing. Until lately these animals were supposed to be confined to Australia and Tasmania, but lately two species of Echidna hive been found in New Guinea.

Proboscopia—In the corner, between Cases 14 and 15, Is a young Elephant (Elephas indicus). It is about a year old.

Cases 15 to 22

[unclear: contain] the Carnivora, or Flesh-eating animals. They are distinguished by their large and projecting canine teeth. They are sometimes divided into two sections, six. Those that walk on their toes only (digitigrade), and those that walk with the whole of the toot on the [unclear: ground] grade); but there are many connecting links. [unclear: The](Felis leo), of which the Museum at present possibles only a Lioness, and the Leopard or Panther ([unclear: the] leopardus) inhabit both Asia and Africa, while the Tiger (Felis tigris) is found only in Asia. The Jaguar (felis onca) represents the Leopard in S. America; it is distinguished by having a central spot in each circular group. The Wild Cat of Nubia (Felis maniculatus) is supposed by many naturalists to be the progenitor of the domestic cat. The Lynx (Felis lynx) inhabits Northern Europe and America; it is remarkable for its long limbs and short tail. In the Civet Cat (Viverra zibetha) and the Genet (Genetta senegalensis) the muzzle is elongated, page 12 and so lead us to the Weasels (Mustelidœ), The Polecat (Puiorius fœtidus) is the original stock of the Ferret. It is very variable in colour. The fur of the Stoat or Ermine (Mustela ermina) used to be a symbol of royalty. It lives not only in England, Europe, and America, but also in N. Africa. It is, however, only in very cold climates that it gets in the winter the pure white colour with a black tip to its tail that makes it so valuable The Glutton, or Wolverine, (Gulo borelis) which is found in Northern Asia, Europe and America connects these animals with the Bears (Ursidœ) Otter (Lutra vulgaris) lives chiefly on fish; it is remarkable for its long body and short legs. The Badger (Meles taxus) is a solitary animal, living in holes, The Mongoose (Herpestes griseus) is often kept domesticated in India, to keep the house clear of snakes.

The Canidœ, or Dogs are widely distributed. Wolf (Canis lupus) is the largest of the family. The domestic Dog (Canis familiaris) is represented by the Esquimaux Dog. The foxes differ from the other dogs in having a longer muzzle and a bushy tail. The [unclear: Arc] Fox (Canis lagupus) is found only in the Arctic region N. America. The common Fox (Canis vulpes) [unclear: is] fined to Europe. The Bears (Ursidœ) are entirely [unclear: pla] grade, walking on the soles of the feet. The Brown Bear of Europe (Ursus arctos) is often exhibited in the streets, as it is very harmless. The Sloth Bear India (Ursus labiatus) feeds only on vegetables; it has large claws for tearing up roots. The Kinkajou (Cercoleptes caudivolvulus) is remarkable for its long prehensile tail. It lives in trees in Central America. The Racoon (Procyon lotor) is a native of N. America; is [unclear: a] animal, sleeping all day.

The Seals (Pinnipedia) are in the centre of the hall, They are represented by the Crested Seal ([unclear: Chrysto] cristato) and the Common Seal of Britain, &c. (Calloce-phalus vitulinus)

Note.—For the other seals in this enclosure see New Zealand Collections.

Cases 23 to 26

contain the llyracoidca and the Ungulata, or HoofedH mals. The Hyracoidea is a very small order conta only one genus (Hyrax), which, although very diffi page 13 is size, is related to the Rhinoceros. The order is represented in the collection by Hyrax dorsalis in Case 23. The hoofed animals are divided into those with an odd number of toes (Perimodactyla), and those with an even number of toes (Artiodactyla). The former are not represented. The latter are again sub-divided into [unclear: the], represented by the Collard Peccary ([unclear: Noto-] torquatus), in Case 23, and the Ruminantia, or those animals that chew the cud. These are divided into (1) those with hollow permanent horns, represented by several species of Gazelle and Antelope, the Chamois (Rupricapra tragus), and the Wild Sheep (Ovis [unclear: cyclo-]). In the Prong-Buck (Antilocapra americana), however the sheath of the horn is shed annually. (2) Those with solid horns which fall off every year, represented the Reindeer (Tarandus rangifer), the Mule Deer (Eucervus macrotis) &c.; and (3) those without any horns, represented by the pretty little Tragulus [unclear: stan-], and T. javanicus.

In the centre of the hall is a skeleton of the Giraffe, (Giraffa camelopardalis) and one of the extinct Cave Bear (Ursus spelœus). The skeletons of the whales are mentioned in the New Zealand Collections.

The Birds occupy the wall cases in the Second or Upper Gallery. They are distinguished from all other animals by being covered with feathers. The collection comprises about 1,200 species, belonging to nearly 800 genera, nearly all of which are exhibited to the public. Out of the 114 families into which birds are divided by Mr. G. Gray, 103 are represented in the Museum galleries.

Cases 1 to 4

[unclear: maintain] the Struthious Birds, distinguished by their being tunable to fly, and by having the sternum or breast-bone flat. It is to this group that the Kiwi (apteryx) and page 14 Moa (Dinornis) belong. The Cassowary (Casunarous galestus) has a horny protuberance or helmet on its head. [unclear: The] wings are very short, and the wing feathers [unclear: represented] by a few stiff quills only. The feathers on the body [unclear: are] loose and hair-like, and two feathers or plumes come [unclear: out] of one shaft or quill. It will be noticed that the [unclear: young] bird is not so dark as the adult, and has the helmet quite small. The Cassowaries are found in New Guinea and the neighbouring Islands; New Britain, and North Australia. The Emu (Dromaius novœ-hollandiœ) is found only in Australia. Like the Cassowary, it has very short wings and two feathers from each quill, but the beak of a very different shape, and it has not got the long toe nail. A chick in the down is also exhibited. [unclear: The] or American Ostrich (Rhea americana) inhabits Patagorlis and La Plata. The feathers are more bushy, and there is only one from each quill. The feathers of the Rhex are used for ornament, but they are not so valuable as those of the African ostrich.

Cases 5 to 10

contain the Birds of Prey. (Accipitres or Rap tores), Case contains Vultures, all of which feed on carrion, are recognised by their more or less naked head and neck. The Monk Vulture (Vultur monachus); the Indian Vulture (Otogyps calvus); and the Bengal Vulture (Gyps bengalensis), represent the true Vultures of the oil world; while the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes [unclear: and]) represents the Vultures of the new world. The Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) is also found in India and occasionally in Europe. It is often represented on the Egyptian monuments as the symbol for the sun. The Lammergeyer or Bearded Vulture (Gypaetut [unclear: bar]) is supposed to be the fabled Roc. It inhabits high mountains only. Case 6 contains the Buzzards, of [unclear: which] vulgaris and Archibuteo lagopus may be taken as types. Case 7 contains Eagles. The Golden Eagle of Europe (Aquila chrysaetos) and its Australian representative the Eagle Hawk (Aquila audax), with its long wedge-shaped tail. The Imperial Eagle (Aquila imperialis) and the Spotted Eagle (Aquila nœvia) are also beautiful birds. The Snake Eagle of India (Spilornis cheela) has no feathers on its legs. The Ring-Tailed Sea Sea Eagles (Haliäetus leucoryphus) feeds upon fish, turtles, and snakes

Case 8 contains the Falcons, which are distinguished by the sharp tooth on the upper mandible of the bill, and by their long pointed wings. The Jer Falcon ([unclear: Falco]cans) and the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) were the most highly prized of all by the ancient Falconers; but even the little Merlin (Falco œsalon) was used for lawking larks and quail. The Jugger Falcon ([unclear: Falco]) is much used at the present day in India for this [unclear: fin e] old sport. It will be seen by the group of Jugger Falcons that the female much exceeds the male in size. This is the case with all the birds of prey.

The Kite (Milvus regalis) and the Govinda Kite (Milvus [unclear: nda]) are quite different from the Falcons in the bill. Like all the other Kites, they can be distinguished by their larked tails.

The Hawks (Case 9) have short rounded wings. The [unclear: Gos]-hawk (Astur palumbarius) and the Sparrow Hawk (Accipiter Nisus) were used in hawking, but were flown in quite a different way to the Falcons; their heads never being covered with hoods.

The Harriers are distinguished by the more or less marked circle of feathers round the eye. The group of Indian Harriers (Circus macrurus) shows the male, female young. The Secretary Bird (Serpentarius [unclear: lious]vorus) is remarkable for its long legs. It gets its English name from the tuft of feathers on either side of the head. It feeds only on Snakes.

The Owls, or Nocturnal Birds of Prey, occupy Case 10. They Are known by their soft plumage, and large eyes surrounded by a disk of feathers. The Hawk Owl [unclear: (Surutula)] is intermediate between the Owls and Hawks, and it flies by day. The Snowy Owl (Nyctea nivea) is found only in high northern latitudes. Its plumage is remarkably like that of the Jer-falcon (Case 8) which inhabits the same countries. The Sparrow Owl (Glauci- [unclear: the] passerinum) is one of the smallest of its kind. The Burrowing Owl (Speotyto hypogœa) lives in holes in the [unclear: the] along with Prairie Dogs and Rattle Snakes. The Bengal Eagle Owl (Bubo beugalensis) is one of the largest of its kind. It has long feathers over each eye [unclear: like] also has the Fish Owl (Ketupa ceylonica). The Barred Owl (Syrnium nebulosum) is a very handsome [unclear: bird]. The Barn Owl or Screech Owl (Strix flammea) is found over nearly the whole world.

Cases 11 and 12

contain the Parrots. The Long-tailed Parrakeets ([unclear: Pl] cercinœ) of Australia are well represented, as also are the Long-tailed Parakeets (Palœornly) of India. The Caws (Arainœ) are only represented by the Patagoniæ Parrot (Conurus patagonus), which comes however in Chili, and the Carolina Parrot (Conurus carolinesis). The Lories (Loriinœ), known by their gaudy plumage and short tails, contains the smallest of the Parrots (Lorcylus exilis). The Purple-Capped Lory (Lorius domicella) is a good representative. The Honey-eating Parrots (Triko glossinœ) have a kind of brush at the end of the tongue. The Australian species are well represented, but we have also Eclectus polychlorus and Tanygnathus mülleri. The true Parrots (Psittacinœ) have short tails and the bill often toothed. They are represented by a single species; the Grey Parrot (Psittacus erythacus). The Cockatooa (Cacatuidœ) are found only in Australia and the neighbouring Islands.^*

Cases 13 to 17

contain the birds belonging to the order Picariœ, [unclear: a] cellaneous assortment of very different forms, grouped together more because they differ from other birds, than on account of their resemblance to each other. In Case 13 we have the Rollers (Coracias), the beautiful Trogons (Trogon), and the broad-billed Todies (Eurylaimus).^† have also the Night Jars (Caprimulgidœ), night fyline birds, with soft, owl-like feathers, wonderfully wide months and long wings. Like the Swifts (Cypselidœ) they catch insects on the wing, but the Swifts fly by day. The Humming Birds (Trochilidœ), although so different in appearance are closely related in their internal structure to the Swifts. They are represented by a group of some of the most typical and beautiful forms. They are the smallest of all birds, and are found only in America.

In Case 14 we have the Kingfishers (Alcediniœ), Bee-eaters (Meropidœ), and the Jacamars ([unclear: Gal]) Also the Hoopoe (Upupa epops), one of the most graceful and useful of birds. In this case are also the beautiful Rifle Bird (Ptilornis) of Northern Australia. May page 17 naturalists think, and with good reason, that this bird should be classed with the Birds of Paradise. In Case 15 there are the Hornbills (Burerotidœ), remarkable for the enormous development of the beak. It is, however, very light, being hollow. The Toucans (Rhamphastidœ) have also large hollow beaks, but they are brilliantly coloured, while the Hornbills are always clothed in black, or brown. These birds feed on fruit, which they throw up in the air and catch in their large bills.^* The Barbets (Megalaiminœ) get their name from the number of straight hairs they have on their beaks. They live in thick forests.

Case 16 is devoted to the Woodpeckers (Picidœ). They are found in almost all parts of the world, except Australia. They live entirely on insects, which they extract decaying trees by means of their long tongue. Case 17 contains nothing but Cuckoos (Cuculidœ.) They hare curved beaks, and two toes in front and two behind. The English Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) is supposed to derive protection from its great resemblance to the Sparrow Hawk (Accipiter nisus) [Case 8]. It is well known that many Cuckoos lay their eggs in the nests of other small birds it has excited astonishment how so big a bird could lay its egg in so small a nest, but the female Cuckoo has been seen to lay its egg on the ground, and take [unclear: it] bill and put it into the nest. It is only the male birds that make the well-known cry. The Ground Cuckoos (Centropus) have one of their hind claws very long. The Channel-Bill (Scythrops novœ hollandiœ) is remarkable for its large bill. It lives only among the ups of high trees.

Cases 18 to 25

contain the Passerine birds, or Perchers. In Case 18 are the Sockers (Meliphagidœ) which are found principally in Australia. They have a brush at the end of the tongue for taking the nectar out of flowers. The Sun Birds (Promeropdœ) represent in the Old World the Humming Birds of America. Promerops nipalensis, and l. saturata, are beautiful species. The Swallows [unclear: the]) are also in this case. Although externally

very like the Swifts (Case 13), their anatomy shows them to be very different. The Wire-tailed Swallow ([unclear: Horinfilifera)] has the two outer feathers of the tail much elongated.

The principal bird in Case 19 is the Lyre-bird ([unclear: Memory] superba), so called from the shape of the tail in the male. Although so large, it is allied to the Wren ([unclear: Trog] parvulus), which is in the same case. Here we have the soft-billed Warblers (Luscinidœ), including the Nightangale (Luscinia philomela) and the English Robin (Erythacus rubecula), and the beautiful Superb [unclear: Warb] (Malurus) of Australia. In Case 20 are the Tits ([unclear: Pear] the Wagtails (Motacilla), and the Thrushes ([unclear: Turkey]) Also, the celebrated Bulbul (Pycnotus pygœus), several kinds of Green Bulbuls (Phyllornis).

In Case 21 are the King Crows (Dicrurus), the Swallows (Artamus), the gorgeously coloured Group Thrushes (Pitta), the Bower Birds (Ptilonorhynchine) the Orioles (Oriolus), chiefly of a yellow colour, and Flycatchers (Muscicapidœ), of which the [unclear: Pari] Fly-catcher. (Tchitrea paradisi) is the most remark! In this bird there is a remarkable difference in color between the adult and the young, for while the former has the greater part of the body white, in the latter is the light chesnut. The Caterpillar Catchers ([unclear: Cor] phaga) are closely allied to the Fly-catchers, the [unclear: best] Minivet (Pericrocotus) connecting the two groups.

In Case 22 we have the Cock of the Rocks ([unclear: Raycrocea),] so called from its habit of scratching up the and flapping its wings, like the domestic cock, The Manakins (Pipra munacus and P. militaris), the Bobsmian Wax-wing (Ampelis garrulus), or Chatterer, as called from its never being silent, except when the Diamond Sparrows (Pardalotus) of Australia, the Butcher Birds (Laniidœ). These latter get the name from the habit, which some have, of impaling insects on thorns, until they want them to eat.

Case 23 contains the Crows (Corvidœ). Among [unclear: others] we have the Jay (Garrulus glandarius), the [unclear: Nutra] (Nucifraga caryocatcictes), the Magpie (Pica caudata) Raven (Corvus corax), and the Chough (Coracia [unclear: Coracia] lus.)

Case 24 contains three species of Birds of Paradise the Lesser Bird of Paradise (Paradisea minor), the king page 19 Bird of Paradise (Cicinnurus regia), and the Magnificent Bird of Paradise (Diphyllodes speciosa). It will be noticed how plain the females of these birds are, and how closely they resemble each oilier, as well as the female of the Rifle Bird (Case 14). The same Case contains the Grackles or Mynas, and Starlings (Sturnidœ). Case 15 contains the thick-billed, seed-eating birds, generally known as Finches. The most interesting are the Weaver Bird (Ploceus manyar) of India—it builds its best of strips of leaves or grass, woven together; the Java Sparrow (Padda oryzivora), exceedingly destructive to grain crops; and the Cross Bill (Loxia curvirostra), which uses its peculiar bill for stripping the cones of pine

Case 26 contains the Pigeons. We can only call attentions to the curious Tooth-billed Pigeon (Didunculus [unclear: outris]), the nearest ally to the now extinct Dodo; the Crowned Pigeon (Goura victorœ), the Nicobar Pigeon (Calœnas nicobarica), the beautiful Orange Dove (Chrysœna victor), and the Green Doves (Ptilinopus), the Walted Fruit Pigeons (Carpophaga pacifca and C. [unclear: ura]), the White Fruit Pigeon (Carpophaga lucadi) the Crested Pigeon (Lopholœmus antarcticus), and the Pheasant Tailed Pigeon (Macropygia phasiandia) Cases 27 to 34 contain the collection of New Zealand Birds.

Cases 35 to 40

contain the Gallinaceous, or Game Birds. In Case 35 we have the Sand Grouse (Pterodes), living in deserts, and the Guan (Penelope superciliaris), which perches in trees. In the same case are the Brush Turkey (Talegallus lathami), of Australia, and the Megapode (Megapodius pritchardi), of the Friendly Islands. Both of these place their eggs in mounds of earth and leaves, and they are hatched by the heat of the decomposing vegetable matter. The young birds can fly from the moment they are batched. Cases 36 to 38 contain the Pheasants and Fowls (Phasianidœ). The Wild Peacock and [unclear: Pearao] (Paro cristatus) very much resemble domesticated birds, but have longer legs. The Argus Pheasant (Argus giganteus) displays in its wings the most [unclear: wonder] "cup and ball" markings, the shading being nearly perfect. The Barred-tailed Pheasant (Phasianus ree-

vesi) is remarkable for the length of its tail. The Kaleege, or Fowl-pheasant (Euplocomus albo-cristates), lives in the forests of the Himalaya. The ton Pheasant (Lophophorus impeyanus) is one of the most magnificent of birds, its metallic plumage being unrivalled. The Jungle Fowl (Gallus bankiva) is considered by the best authorities as the ancestor of all the different varieties of domestic fowls. It much resembles some of the Bantams. The Tragopans (Ceriornis) are all handsome birds.

Case 39 contain the Grouse family (Tetraonidœ). The Blood Pheasant (Ithaginis cruentus) is remarkable for its colours, so unlike the other Game-birds. The Francolins (Francolinus, &c.) are known by the male having a spur, which is absent in the true Partridges (Perdia). The Quails (Coturnix) are small Partridges, while the Button Quails (Turnix) have only three toes. The female of the Crested Partridge (Rollulus roul [unclear: rou]) differs markedly from the male, in having the body of a greenish colour. The Hill Partridge (Tetragallu himalayensis) is a fine large bird. The true Grouse are known by their feathered legs. The Capercallus (Tetrao urogallus) became extinct in Scotland, but attempts have been made to reinstate it from Norway. The Black Grouse (Tetrao tetrix), and the Ptarmigan (Lagopus alpinus), are found in Europe; but the Red Grouse (Lagopus scoticus) is confined to the British Islands. Case 40 is devoted to the Bustards (Otididœ), of which we may mention the Great Bustard (Otis tarda), and the Houbara (Otis houbara). They live on open plains, and run with great rapidity, but they can also fly well

Cases 41 to 47

contain the Grallæ:, or Wading Birds. Case 41 contains the Plovers (Charadriadœ), the Coursers ([unclear: Cur]) and the Swallow Plovers (Glareola). Also, the curious Sheath-bill (Chionis minor), from Kerguelen's land, and the Oyster Catchers (Hœmalopus). In Case 42 the Cranes,^* represented by the Common Crane ([unclear: Grus] cinerea), the Sarus (Grus antigone), and the Night

Heron (Nycticorax). Case 43 contains the Herons (Ardea) and the Bitterns (Botaurus), as well as the beautiful Sun-bittern (Eurypyga solaris. In Case 44 is the curious Phantom Bird (Scopus umbretta), the Kagou (Rhynochetos jubatus), and the Adjutant (Leptoptilos ergala), one of the largest of Storks, and highly prized in India as a scavenger. In Case 45 we have the Jabiru (Mycteria), the Black Stork (Ciconia nigra), and the White Stork (Ciconia alba), well known to readers of fairy tales; also, the Spoon-bill (Platelea leucorodia), and the very remarkable Boat-bill (Cancroma cochlearia). In Case 46 are the Ibises (Tantalidœ), of which the Ibis melanocephalus closely resembles the Sacred Ibis of Egypt. The Snipes (Gallinago) are found all over the world, but the Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola) is confined to Europe, Egypt, and Asia. The Ruff (Machetes [unclear: pug]) is remarkable for its various colours, no two individuals being found alike. The Stilt Plovers ([unclear: Himanlopus]) will be recognised by their long legs, and the [unclear: Avocet] (Recurvirostra rubricollis) by its long turned-up bill. Case 47 we have the Curlew (Numenius [unclear: ar-]), Sandpipers (Tringa) of many kinds, and the Ralls, (Rallidœ). Of these, the principal are the New Caledosian Wood-hen (Eulabeornis lafresnayanus), the Sultana Rail (Porphyrio indicus), and the Coot (Fulica [unclear: we]). The Jaoanas (Parridœ) are remarkable for their long toes and claws, by means of which they are enabled to run floating plants. Two species are in the collection, viz, Parra jacana and Hydrophasianus chirurgus.

Cases 48 to 56

[unclear: contain] the Web-footed Birds, or Anseres. In Case 48 is the Flamingo (Phœnicopterus antiquorum), remarkable for its long legs and neck, and for its curiously-curved bill, which necessitates its being placed in the position represented in the specimen, in order that it may capture its food, small fish, worms, shells, &c. In the same Case is the Spur-winged Goose (Plectropterus rupelli), and the Black-backed Goose (Sarkidiornis melanonotus). In Case we have the Wild Goose (Anser cinereus), the parent form of our domestic goose; the curious Little Goose (Netappus Coromandelicus), the Tree Ducks (Dendrocygna), the Sheldrake (Tadorna cornuta), the Wild Duck

boschas), from which all our domesticated ducks are descended, and many others. The most remarkable birds in Case 50 are the Cape Barron Goose (Cereopis Nora hollandiœ), and the Soft-billed Duck (Malacorhynchus membranaceus); and in Case 51, the celebrated Canvas back (Aythya vallisneria), the Eider Duck (Somateria mollissima), and the Goosander (Mergus castor).

Cases 52 and 53 are devoted to Gulls, Terns, and Petrels. We have, in Case 52, among others, the Skus Gull (Lestris antarcticus), the Herring Gull (Lerus [unclear: as] gentatus), the Kittiwake (Larus tridactylus), the Commos Tern (Sterna hirundo), the Black Tern (Hydrochelidon nigra), the White Tern (Gygis alba), and the Nodds (Anous stolidus. Below there is the Northern Albatrorr (Diomedea nigripes). In Case 53 there are the Japan Shearwater (Puffinus lucomelas), several Stormy Trels, or Mother Carey's Chickens (Thalassidroma) Fulmar, (Procellaria glacialis), and others. In [unclear: Case] is the Frigaite Bird (Atagen minor), the Boatswain Bird or Tropic Bird, (Phaeton rubricauda), and the Booby ([unclear: sifiber]). In Case 55 is the Pelican (Pelucanus fuscus), Cormorants (Graculus), and the Darters (plotus); and in Case 50 the Razor-bill (Chenalopex torda), the Puffin (Fratercula arctica), Guillemot (Uria troile), and the Little Auk (Arctica alle). Below them are the Gress (Podiceps), and at the bottom of the case the Divers (Colymbus) and the Penguins (Sphenbcidœ), among which are Spheniscus demersus, from Cape Horn, Eudyptes papua from Kerguelen's Lind.

Eggs.

The collection of Foreign Birds' eggs will be found Desk Cases 38 to 35, Upper Gallery. In Case 38 model of the egg of the extinct struthious bird of Madagascar, Æpiornis. This is the largest egg in the world.

These are contained in the Wall Cases 10 to 13, on the south side of the First Gallery. The collection is small at present, and owing to the very limited space, a strict classification cannot be followed. Many more species are packed up in jars and cans, but owing to want of time and of funds, they cannot yet be exhibited to the public.

Reptiles.

The Shield Reptiles are protected by a bony case, into which they can retreat. Some are entirely terrestrial; others live in fresh water, and a few are marine. The Turtle (Chelonia virgata) is edible. The Hawke's Bill Turtle (Chelonia imbricata) supplies what is known in commerce as tortoise-shell. The Tortoises live on land, in fresh water. They are represented by a large shell of Testudo indica, and a small stuffed specimen of Emys guttata. The Crocodiles are represented by the Indian Crocodile (Crocodilus porosus), which is also found in North Australia, where it grews to an enormous size. The Lizards (Lacertilia) are represented by the Fiji Iguana (Brachylophus faciatus), the Jew Lizard (Trachydosaurus asper), Frilled Lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii), and others. The curious Pygopus lepidopus has no fore legs, and the hind legs are rudimentary. It connects the Lizards with the snakes. The venomous Snakes are represented by the Brown-banded Snake (Hoplocephalus curtus); the Sea Snakes, which have the tail flattened for swimming, by the Banded Sea Snake (Platurus scutatus); and the Pythons by Liasis amethysiinus from New Guinea.

The Mollusca are arranged in the desk cases round the gallery railing in the first gallery. The collection prises about 2,500 different species exhibited to the as well as a large number of small species of no particular interest, which are not exhibited. Extinct genera mounted on wood.

Cases 34 and 35

contain the Cephalopoda, the Pteropoda, and the Heteropoda. Among the first we have the Paper Nautilur (Argonauto argo), both animal and shell; the Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), the Squid (Loligo vulgaris), the [unclear: Sepia] (Sepia officinalis), and the extinct Belemnites, which page 25 very much resembled the Sepia, but of which only the internal shell is preserved. The recent species are illustrated by very accurate glass models, as it is impossible to exhibit real specimens so that they can be understood.

In Case 35 we have the Nautilus (Nautilus pompiliut) and the extinct genera of Ammonites, Orthoceras, &c.

The Pteropoda are oceanic animals that swim by means of two fin-like arms. The glass model of Clio borealis will explain the shape of the animal; the rest are only shells The Heteropoda are also free swimming oceanic molluscs, but swim by means of their foot. Dentalium is sometimes put into a separate order.

Cases 36 to 52

contain the Marine Gasteropoda, arranged according to Dr. Chenu's Manual. Those in which the shell is rudimentary or wanting (Opisthobranchs) will be found in Case 52.

Cases 53 to 57

contain the Land and Freshwater Univalves and Bivalves. It will be noticed how dull and uniform are their colours in comparison with the Marine forms.

Cases 58 to 65

contain the Marine Lamellibranchiata or Bivalves.

Case 66

contain the Brachiopoda or Lamp Shells. It will be noticed that in this case there are more extinct than recent forms.

Cases 67 to 73

contain the collection of New Zealand Shells, which see proper heading.

Upper Gallery, Desk Cases 34 to 28.

Case 34 contains the Orthoptera and the Hemiptera, which are divided into Homoptera and Heteroptera. Case 33 contains the Diptera and Hymenoptera. Cases 32 the Coleptera, or Beetles. In Case 32 will be

found specimens of the Colorado Beetle, and models of the various stages through which it passes. Cases 30, 31 and 28 contain the Lepidoptera.

Case 24

contains the Arachnida (Spiders, Scorpions, &c.) and Myriapoda.