PATAGONIAN MARSH-STARLING 127 
and vegetation, is the boundary-line dividing their 
habitats. So nearly alike are these two birds in 
colour, language, and habits, that they seem rather 
like races than species; and they were so regarded 
by naturalists until recently, when the pampas bird 
was raised to the rank of a distinct species, with the 
name of Trupialis defilippii. Unfortunately the old 
name militaris fits the Pampas, and not the Pata- 
gonian, Starling best ; but of this I shall speak when 
I describe the former species. 
In its form T. militaris resembles the Common 
Starling of Europe, but differs from it in habits, 
flight, language, size, and colouring; its upper 
plumage being fuscous mottled with yellowish grey ; 
the throat and bosom scarlet inclining to crimson. 
This hue varies greatly, the breast-feathers being 
often tipped with white, which subdues the intense 
red, and gives it a rosy tint in some individuals. The 
female is paler-plumaged than the male, and has 
less red on the breast. 
It inhabits the whole of Patagonia to the Strait of 
Magellan, but is confined to the valleys or to the 
neighbourhood of water; and Durnford remarks 
that it is a useful bird to the traveller in that thirsty 
country, as its presence is a sure indication of water. 
It is resident, and is seen in small parties of four or 
five, or in small flocks seldom exceeding twenty or 
thirty in number. It feeds and lives on the ground, 
and only occasionally is it seen to perch on a low 
bush. Its flight is strong, and it flies about a great 
deal, and usually utters its song when on the wing. 
