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



52. Vidua albonotata^ Cassin. 



A single specimen in Dr. Dickinson's collection. I remember 

 having seen it once on the Zambesi, not far from a marsh. 



53. Vidua paradisea. 



In full plumage during January and February : a frequenter 

 of the grass plains of the Zambesi and Shire. During the cold 

 season it is without the long plumes. 



54. EUPLECTES XANTHOMELAS. 



Zambesi and Shire valley, near water. 



55. EuPLECTES sundevallti. 



The nests of the different Eiiplectes are found in colonies, 

 hanging from the extremities of the branches of such trees as 

 the Acacia, having delicate twigs : a position ovei-hanging water 

 is usually chosen. The nest is commonly suspended by a 

 long peduncle of the same material. The opening is tubular 

 and directed downwards. Besides breeding-nests, there are 

 generally a number of a different construction in which the 

 birds may rest. These frequently have two openings, or consist 

 of a ring of woven grass. 



56. EuPLECTES PETITI. 



Zambesi and Shire valley. 



57. Hyphantornis, sp. ? 



Shupanga, Zambesi valley. One specimen in dull plumage. 



58. Ploceus larvatus. Native name, '' Chiti." 



The common Yellow "Weaver of the marshes, building nests 

 of grass attached to reeds, either to a single one or between two. 

 There is no pendulous tube to the nest ; the opening is lateral 

 near the top. Breeds in February, having from three to four 

 young in each nest. Many pairs build near each other, selecting 

 such spots as are inaccessible — the reeds growing from deep water. 



59. Ploceus, sp. nov. 



Shire valley. Specimens in British Museum. 



60. Hypochera nitens. 



In large numbers, and extremely variable in plumage ; feeds 

 on grass-seeds. Everywhere common. 



