observed in Oudh and Kumaon. 229 



again on its former perch. When on the wing, its plumage 

 glistening in the sun, it is seen much more to advantage than 

 when at rest. Like theatrical scenery and Eastern cities, it looks 

 best at a distance. 



48. Gecinus flavixuchus, 



I killed a specimen of this very handsome "Woodpecker on 

 June 12, 1859, on one of the lower hills between Nynee Tal and 

 Kaleedoughee, in Kumaon. 



49. Brachypternus aurantius. 



Common. There were other species of Woodpeckers which I 

 did not identify. Not knowing that I should leave the country so 

 soon, I neglected to keep the specimens obtained, hoping to get 

 better ones. 



50. PiCUS HIMALAYANUS. 



Common in Kumaon. 



51. YuNX TORQUiLLA. (Wryucck.) 



A specimen of this bird was brought alive to me by a native 

 birdcatcher in August 1858. 



52. Megal.ima virens. 



Frequently obsei-ved in Kumaon in April, May, and June. It 

 is generally to be seen on the top of some tall tree, uttering its 

 peculiar piercing whistle. 



53. Megal-ema philippensis. 



Noticed only once, near Newabgunge, in November 1858. 



54. CucuLUS CANORUS. (Commou Cuckoo.) 

 Occasionally seen, or rather heard, in Oudh. I heard it in 



August, and shot an immature specimen in October 1859, and 

 again heard it several times in June and July 1860, the ther- 

 mometer at the time ranging from 95° to 105° in the shade, and 

 a hot wind blowing. 



It is a very common bird in Kumaon in April, Ma}^, and 

 June, and is known to the hill men under the name of 

 '' Kupwah," which, like most native names of birds, is evidently 

 derived from its cry. 



