Dr. J. Kirk on the Birds of the Zambesi Region. 327 



S. potatorum of India), the fruit of which is said to be poisonous 

 to man. Its cry is loud and harsh. 



80. TOCCUS ERYTHRORHYNCHUS. 



By the natives this and the two following species of Toccus are 

 included under the name " Kopi." 



In all open woodlands they are common, feeding on fruits 

 and insects ; breeding in the hollows of trees during the season, 

 the female being closed in during the time of incubation, when 

 she moults her feathers, and is unable to fly. 



81. Toccus PCECILORHYNCHUS. 



In Dr. Dickinson's collection. I saw the species in the Shire 

 valley ; but it is rather rare, I believe. 



82. Toccus MELANOLEUCUS. 



River Shire valley, in open bush and low trees. 



Fam. CUCULIDiE. 



83. Chalcites cupreus. 



Rare ; found at the foot of Moramballa Mountain, and halfway 

 up the Shire, in a wood : it frequents forests. One specimen is 

 in Dr. Dickinson's collection; probably from near the same 

 locality. 



84. Zanclostomus ^neus, Vieill. 



In Dr. Dickinson's collection : a native of the plains. 



85. Centropus senegalensis. 



Very common in all the grassy borders of rivers ; looked upon 

 by the natives with disgust, and never eaten. 



Fam. INDICATORIDiE. 



86. Indicator minor. 



The Honey- Guide is found in forests, and often far from water, 

 even during the dry season. On observing a man, it comes 

 fluttering from branch to branch in the neighbouring trees, 

 calling attention. If this be responded to, as the natives do by 

 whistling and starting to their feet, the bird will go in a certain 

 direction and remain at a little distance, hopping from one tree 

 to another. On being followed, it goes further; and so it will 



