observed in the District of Beira. 41 



to trcc-top in the vicinity, but well out of range, and as soon 

 as hunted tly into the forest at once. The first nest I found 

 was built in the river-bank in soft sand about 2 feet from tlu; 

 top, a tunnel about 18 inches long, 2 inches diameter, and at 

 the end an oval chamber about 6 inches diameter. The eggs, 

 four in number, were laid on the bare sand, and were of a 

 beautiful salmon-pink colour and shiny, but pure white after 

 blowing; size |f x|-| inch, all about the same size. The 

 other nest was in an embankment on the railway, and I saw 

 the male just aljove the nest on telegraph-wires, and found 

 the female on the eggs. Nest and eggs similar to the above. 

 Both clutches were quite clear. 



122. Cekyle rudis (L.). Pied Kingfisher. 



A very common bird in this locality and very fond of 

 mangrove-swamps on the sea-coast, where it may at any time 

 be seen in quantity. I have often noticed from five to eight 

 or nine together fishing. It also frequents inland waters, but 

 usually only singly or in pairs. 



123. Ceryle MAXI5IA (Pall.). Giant Kingfisher. 



Not by any means an uncounnon species on inland waters, 

 but very difficult to approach. 



I have never seen this bird near the sea-coast, nor at 

 river mouths where the water is salt. 



[Ibis is contrary to its custom in the Cape. — Edd.] 



124. Alcedo semitorquata, Sw. Half-collared King- 

 fisher. 



Rather an uncommon bird round here. 



125. CORYTHORNIS CYANOSTIGMA (Rupp.). Malachite 

 Kingfisher. 



Very conunon. 



126. IsriDiNA NATALENSis (A. Sm.). Natal Kingfisher. 

 Very common, more so than the previous species. 



127. CoLius STRIATUS MINOR, Cab. Speckled Mouse- 

 bird. 



Connnon in certain districts all the year, and is c.-^pecially 

 foud of thick bush close to the sea-coast. 



