: 



OWL PATtROT—Stiiijops liahroptlhis. 



The name given to the curious Ijird now before us is a very appropriate one, as the 

 creature seems to partake equally of the natures of the Owl and the Parrot. 



Even in its habits it has much of the Owl nature, being as strictly nocturnal as any 

 of those birds. During tlie daytime it conceals itself in holes, under the stumps of trees, 

 And similar localities, and seldom being seen except after sunset. The natives of New 

 Zealand, where it is found, say that during the winter months tlie Owl Parrots assemble 

 together in great numbers, collecting themselves into certain large caverns, and that while 

 arranging for their winter-quarters, and before dispersing for the summer, they become 

 /eiy noisy, and raise a deafening clamour. 



The Owl Parrot is weak of wing and seldom trusts itself to the air, taking but a very 

 short flight whenever it rises from tlie ground. Neither is it seen much in trees, preferring 

 to inliabit the ground, and making regular jiaths to and from its nest, by means of winch 

 its habitation may be discovered by one who knows the habits of the bird. These tiacks 

 are about a foot in width, and so closely rcsemlde the paths worn by the footsteps of human 

 beings that they have been mistaken for such by travellers. 



The food of this bird is mostly obtained on the gi'ound, and consists of tender twigs. 



