186 



AN AUSTRALIAN BIRD BOOK. 



1 382a Starling, Sturnus vulgaris, Eur., N. Afr., Asia, A. 



23 (introduced). Nom. v.c. open 



Glossy-black, with metallic reflections; upper feathers 

 tipped buff, under tipped white; light tips lost in sum- 

 mer; bill lemon-yellow summer, blackish winter; f., 

 Sim. Insects, caterpillars, fruit. Wheezing, whining 

 notes. Mimic. 



8.5 



The eye is often mentioned, but hazel-eyed birds have become 

 white-eyed. However, the Raven has lanceolate feathers on the 

 neck, and a rougher, unmusical voice. 



The Raven seems the more common bird, though most people 

 will tell you there are no Ravens in their district. 



The Apostle-Bird (Gray Jumper), and the White- winged Chough 

 are two of Australia's "anomalous birds." Both go in flocks, 

 so each has been called the "Twelve Apostles." However, the 

 name has become attached to the Gray Jumper. 



The White-winged Chough has no close relative in the world; 

 possibly, the Chough that nests in the cliffs of Cornwall is nearest 

 to it. 



The Bell-Magpies (Streperas) , perhaps better known as Black 

 or Gray Magpies, are now receiving much notice, because of their 

 position at the head of the bird-world. They are restricted to 

 Australia, Tasmania, and Lord Howe Island. A good name is 

 required for these birds, for, of course, they are not Magpies, 

 though they have a whlte-tipped tail, and there is usually white 



