308 Dr. J. Kirk on the Birds of the Zambesi Region. 



the more common birds between the sea-coast and the first rapids 

 which stop navigation, with a few from the inland parts and 

 lake-region. 



The number of species determined extends to 150. Others 

 were observed, to which, from want of specimens, it is impos- 

 sible to refer. Considering the vast extent of the region passed 

 over, further research may yet treble the number and make us 

 acquainted with many new forms. 



Approached from seaward, the Zambesi coast presents a long 

 dark line of mangroves, broken here and there by low sand- 

 hummocks, but without any mountains or rising ground visible 

 in the distance. The river opens by four mouths, two of which 

 are navigable to vessels of light draught, although dangerous 

 from being little known, and from the heavy surf which fre- 

 quently breaks on the bar. An alluvial plain extends for 60 

 miles inland, through which the Zambesi flows nearly north 

 and south. This vast delta is covered with grasses of gigantic 

 stature, with here and there a few trees. No elevation rises 

 above the ant-hills, which are sometimes, however, 20 feet in 

 height. This region abounds in game, both large and small. 

 Antelopes, buffaloes, and wild pigs are common ; also the Lion, 

 Leopard, Serval, and Hyena, with smaller animals, the Genetta, 

 Ratelus, Orycteropus, Macroscelides, and Galago. In the river 

 and marshes are found water-fowl, including Ducks, Geese, 

 Flamingoes, Pelicans, Herons, and Rails ; in the plains. Bus- 

 tards, Francolins, and Larks. 



Above, the delta passes into a wide valley, the ground rising 

 on either side, clothed with primeval forest. Here the trees 

 attain great dimensions, and are festooned with wild vine, india- 

 rubber shrub, and other climbers ; and the Eland, Hartebeeste, 

 Blackbuck, Kokang, and Zebra first appear. Among birds we 

 find Guinea-fowl, both plumed and horny-headed. Crested Fly- 

 catchers, Hornbills, Fruit-pigeons, and Sun-birds. The river 

 is here from one to two miles wide, with large reedy islands in 

 the channel, which is further encumbered by shallows, rendering 

 navigation both difficult and tedious. 



The Zambesi is joined by the Shire about one hundred miles 

 from the coast. Arising from Lake Nyassa, in lat. 14° 25' S., 



