19^7-] Ornithology of Malta . 187 



scarce visitors, generally appearing both in autumn and 

 spring. It is also known locally by the name of Russelt 

 irmiedi, which is i)ractically the same as liussett griz. The 

 Maltese name Russett imperial, which is given by several 

 ornithologists, is apparently no longer in use. 



204. (201) Ardea purpurea purpurea L, The Purple 

 Heron. 



Local name : Russett. 



Schenibri says this species is rather common, and that 

 it appears during the winter and spring. Wright states 

 that large Hocks may be seen passing in spring and autumn, 

 and that these often alight on the carob-trees and along the 

 sea-shore. 1 consider it as generally very common during 

 the period of both migrations. In the spring the first 

 arrivals are noticed by the beginning of March ; in the 

 autumn they are to be seen by the middle of September 

 and continue to pass till late in November. I noticed 

 that during this season the individuals which visit us are 

 mostly young birds of the year. Besides the local name 

 given, we find in several other lists the name Russett 

 culur cannella ; this, however, appears to have dropped out 

 of use. 



205. (202) Egretta alba alba (L.). The Great White 

 Heron. 



Local name : Russett imperial. 



Recorded by Schembri as rather rare, and not seen 

 annually. I have never seen a specimen taken in these 

 islands, and have heard only of one being shot during the 

 last twenty years. The local name given by Schembri is 

 Quack abjad, and Giglioli gives also Ajrun abjad. I find, 

 however, that several sportsmen who state that they have 

 observed the s[)ecies know it by the local name given above. 

 Besides this, the Maltese name Quack or Kuukk or Cuacc 

 is intended for the Night-Heron, and Ajrun, as already 

 stated, is given also to the Crane. 



