167 



No. 10. LoPHOicTiNA isuRA (Square-tailed Kite). 



A few of these Kites were noted in the early part of our trip. 

 At one of our camps near Lake Augusta in July I found a nest 

 containing one young bird fully fledged. It was situated in a 

 Cork -bark-tree, about 15 feet from the ground. The old birds 

 were very shy and difficult to approach. 



No. 11. Gypoictixia melanosternon (Black-breasted Kite). 



Many of these birds were observed on the flats near the Fitzroy 

 River. As our caravan passed along, they kept rising from the 

 ground, and only flew a short distance before they again settled. 

 They were never seen to perch. Two old nests were found, but 

 neither contained eggs. 



No. 12. Falco hypoleucus (Grey Falcon). 



Several of these beautiful Falcons were observed near Mount 

 Campbell, and also at Mount Arthur, but successfully evaded 

 capture. 



No. 13. Falco subniger (Black Falcon). 



Many splendid specimens of this Falcon were noted between 

 the Fitzroy and Margaret Rivers. Two nests examined were just 

 ready for eggs. In structure they closely resemble those of 

 Hieracidea berigora, and were placed in the highest trees in the 

 neighbourhood. 



No. 14. Falco tunutatus (White-fronted Falcon). 

 This ubiquitous bird was found wherever water exists. As an 

 instance of its daring, I may mention that whilst camped at 

 depot in August a flock of Cockatoo-Parrots perched on a dead 

 tree close to the waterhole, but before I could pick up my gun, a 

 White-fronted Falcon dashed at them, causing the flock to 

 scatter in all directions. In an instant it seized one in its flight, 

 and was making oft', when I tired at him, knocking out feathers. 

 The Falcon dropped its prey, but secured it again before it 

 reached the ground. A second shot at long range caused him to 

 again let the Parrot fall : but it was quite dead. The White- 

 fronted Falcon is probably one of the most courageous of the 

 FalconidcB, and is able to attack with success young ducks and 

 teal, which it will carry off", though much heavier than itself. 

 Its marvellous power of flight enables it to travel a great 

 distance in search of prey. 



No. 15. Hieracidea orientalis (Brown Hawk). 

 These birds were found in great numbers in the early and 

 latter parts of our journey, but very few were seen in the 

 desert. In August several nests containing young were found, 



