302 THE USEFUL BIRDS OF SOUTHERN AUSTRALIA. 



Mallard or English Wild Duck {Anas hoschas) were 

 liberated in southern Victoria in 1871-72 — 40 in one lot, 

 80 in a second. Tliey reproduced themselves in the 

 Botanical Gardens, but eventually flew away and became 

 lost. 



With the whole number of species of foreign birds in- 

 troduced into the southern half of the Commonwealth I may 

 not be acquainted. Odd birds come from time to time, and httle 

 further is heard of them. Systematic efforts on a large scale 

 are necessary, but not always to be countenanced or com- 

 mended. The patriotism of the men who would introduce 

 the " hundred-throated " Nightingale of England {Daulias 

 luscinia), and the Mocking-bird of North America [Mimus 

 polyglottus) would surely bring its just reward. As song 

 birds they are among the marvels of the bird world. What- 

 ever tends to brighten the hves of men is worth the greatest 

 consideration. 



