Recently published Ornitholofjical JVorks. 395 



University College, Dundee. Studies from the Museum of Zoology in 

 University College, Dundee. Vol. I. Pp. 1-18.] 



This is the first time that the shape of the quadrate bone 

 lias been tested as regards its value for purposes of classi- 

 fication. The pajjer contains illustrations of the quadrates 

 of not less than 33 species, which were selected as repre- 

 sentatives of the principal orders and families. 



The quadrates differ extremely amongst themselves, and 

 Miss "Walker has succeeded in showing that the various arti- 

 culating facets and processes afford very valuable taxonomic 

 characters. 



The quadrate of the Flamingo, e. g., shows the closest 

 possible likeness to that of the Pelargomorphse (especially 

 Ibis), and differs altogether from that of the Anseres. The 

 Owls differ greatly in the shape of this bone from the 

 diurnal birds of prey. The Parrots show no affinities with 

 any other groups, except with certain Coccygoraorphse. The 

 Procellariidse approach the Colymbidsft ; the Laridse and 

 Alcidee resemble the Charadriomorphas. 



Whilst these and other instances are decidedly in favour 

 of using the quadrate bone for taxonomic purposes, there 

 are, on the other hand, numerous cases of resemblance be- 

 tween widely different birds, which admonish us to be cautious 

 not to attribute too much value to these characters. We 

 do not yet know how far the configuration of the quadrate 

 bones is determined l)y the mode of life of the birds. Rap- 

 torial habits, e. g., may necessitate similar structures, which, 

 in this case, as mere analogies, would not indicate true 

 relationships. 



However, such considerations apply equally to other organs, 

 and it is sincerely to be hoped that Miss Walker will carry 

 out her intention to continue her most interesting and care- 

 ful work on a more comprehensive basis. 



93. Zeledon on a new Rail. 



[Description de una especie Nueva de " Gallina de Monte." Par Jose 

 C. Zeledon. Anales Mus. Nac. Costa Rica, 1888.] 



The new Costa-Rican Rail, proposed to be called Aramides 



2d 2 



