48 



THE NATURALIST IN AUSTRALIA. 



the ordinary metal kind made for parrots. Previous to this addition, which was most 

 appreciated, the metal perch was, as shown in the lower figures of Plate X., adapted 

 for the better prehension of the birds' feet by a close splicing of whip-cord. Other 

 portable perches were extemporised by a rough log fastened transversely across a 

 shallow wooden box, or raised to a convenient height by a small block only at each 

 end. In no instances were the birds fastened to their perch. During the day time they 

 rarely manifested any inclination to leave it, and when taking exercise in the evening 

 systematically returned to it after making brief excursions in the immediate vicinity. 



It was only for their ocean travels that a cage had to be provided, and 

 even under these conditions they occupied their cage only at .night. The two 

 illustrations of this series, Plate IX., figs. 19 and 20, in juxtaposition depict 

 incidents on the birds' voyage from Brisbane to London. In the latter one, seated 

 on their long box perch, they are comfortably ensconced in the top berth of their 

 owner's cabin that was placed at their disposal. This tedious voyage was safely and 

 happily accomplished, though not with entire exemption from that common lot which 

 befalls most sea-farers, whether mortals or "more-porks," at some one or other of the 

 more tempestuous periods of their earlier voyages. Fig. 19 of the same Plate, with its 

 attached legend, obviates all necessity of lifting the veil upon later harrowing details. 



Among the remaining photo-reproductions of these Podargi inviting notice, 

 that of Plate VIII., fig. 2, is of special interest. It represents an episode in the 

 birds' domesticated career wherein they 

 evinced a most energetic determination to 

 construct a nest and enter upon the cares 



II'. Snrill, hral, 1'hoto. 



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