20 BIRDS OF THE BAHAMA ISLANDS. 



Among the more common species which are to be found at New 

 Providence might be enumerated the Purple Grosbeak or Spanisli 

 Paroquet, of the inhabitants {Loxigilia violacea\ the Bahama Finch 

 {Spindalis zena), and Honey Creeper [Certhiola bahamcnsis), wliich, 

 next to the Bahama Sparrow {P/ionipara bicolor), is the most com- 

 mon species. Anis are abundant everywhere, and it is seldom 

 that during a drive outside of the city their clear whistle is not 

 heard, as they perch upon the swaying branches of some tree, or 

 hop along the ground, after the manner of our Crackles. The little 

 Ground Dove {C. passcrind) is abundant, and is an object of interest 

 to the sportsman. While walking through the pineapple-fields, 

 hundreds of them would rise on all sides of us. The large White- 

 headed Pigeon and Key West Dove are also abundant at certain 

 seasons of the year. Many years ago the Quail {Ortyx virginiainis) 

 was introduced, and has since multiplied, so that at the present time 

 it has become quite numerous, generally frequenting the " pine bar- 

 rens." The lakes abound with Teal, Duck, and Coot, which afford 

 excellent sport to those inclined to shoot them. 



The climate during the winter is magnificent, and many people 

 afflicted with consumption regularly visit Nassau to regain their 

 health. Fabulous stories are told of the wonderful recuperative 

 powers of the atmosphere, most of which are mere fabrications ; but 

 there is no doubt that the people of Nassau enjoy one of the finest 

 climates in the world, the temperature ranging between 65° and 85' 

 from November until April. 



