202 BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA. 



which I have not been able to learn, but I may mention that 

 the young men and boys are not allowed to feed upon it. 



The range of the present species is still unknown ; but in 

 all probability it extends from Tasmania through the whole 

 of the eastern division of Australia to its most northern 

 limits. And now a word to the Australians, particularly to 

 those who are interesting themselves about acclimatizing 

 animals from other countries — wishing for things they have 

 not and neglecting those they possess. At what cross pur- 

 poses are we playing both in Europe and Australia ! — in 

 England a price is put upon the head of the Sparrow, while 

 in Australia rewards are offered for its introduction ; but on 

 this subject any remarks would be out of place here, and I must 

 content myself by praying that protection may be afforded to 

 that noble bird, the Emu, in order that it may not be extir- 

 pated from the continent, as it nearly has been from Tasmania, 

 where, I hear, it would require a month's search, in the most 

 remote parts of the island, before one could see any of the 

 few that are still living thereon. How much will the loss of 

 this fine bird be regretted by every right-minded person who 

 claims Tasmania as his father-land ! 



On the continent of Australia the Emu was formerly abun- 

 dant about Botany Bay and Port Jackson Harbour, but is 

 now only to be seen on the plains of the interior, over whose 

 solitudes it still roams in great numbers, and where it breeds, 

 depending upon the strength and swiftness of its legs to 

 avoid the pursuit of the stockmen and their dogs. Further 

 and further back, however, will it be driven until it be 

 extirpated, unless some law be instituted to check its wanton 

 destruction. That it might easily be preserved is evident 

 from the readiness with which it breeds in confinement ; and 

 surely I have here said sufficient to induce the Australian 

 authorities to give a thought to its protection, as well as that 

 of the great red and grey Kangaroos and other interesting 

 native birds and quadrupeds. ,/ 



