126 Transactions. — Zooloyy. 



51. Chrysococcyx lucidus, Gml. — Shiuiug Cuckoo. 



Our bronze cuckoo is always welcome as the herald "of 

 suuny days to be," and has yet another claim upon us as a 

 practical destroyer of some of our insect pests. Mr. Gilberd, of 

 Taradale, has informed me that for some seasons past he has 

 noticed these birds feeding on the different scales and blights so 

 much dreaded by all horticulturists ; and he is convinced that 

 they do a large amount of good. It is well that the services 

 thus rendered by our summer guest should be published abroad, 

 as it may restrain the murderous instincts of some of those who, 

 if they see a pretty bird, must needs immediately try and 

 shoot it. 



52. Carpophaga nov.e-zealandle, Gml. — Pigeon. 



54. Apteryx mantelli, Bart. 



Two specimens were taken alive in the Pohue Bush in 1880, 

 and I believe it is still to be found on the slopes of Maunga- 

 haruru. 



59. Charadrius obscurus, Gml. — Red-breasted Plover. 



60. Charadrius bicinctus, J aid. — Dotterel. 



Breeds on the river-beds. The eggs vary considerably in 

 density of marking. 



65. H;ematopus longirostris, Viell. — Red-bill. 



66. ILematopus unicolor, Forst. — Black Red-bill. 



Both of the Red-bills frequent the sandy shoals and banks 

 near the Port Ahuriri bridge. 



69. Ardea sacra, Gml. — Blue Heron. 



Although this bird occurs plentifully both north and south of 

 the bay, I have only seen one specimen, which was resting on 

 the western spit. 



71. Ardea pceciloptera, [J 7 ^/.— Bittern. 



This noble bird is remarkably numerous in the lagoons and 

 swamps of the district. I have frequently seen during this 

 month (April) as many as nine in sight at one time in the lagoon 

 by the side of the Taupo Road, at Petane. Some years ago, when 

 shooting at Tongoio, I put up sixteen in one day. 



75. Lijiosa baueri, Naum. — -Godwit. 



79. Himantopus leucocephalus, Gould. — Pied Stilt. 



80. Himantopus nov.e-zealandl,e, Gould. — Black Stilt. 



Both of these occur very plentifully, and breed on the islands 

 in the harbour and on the river-beds. The vigilance of tbese 

 birds is extremely annoying when in pursuit of ducks, as their 

 harsh note of warning is quickly appreciated by any ducks in the 

 neighbourhood. 



