PATAGONIAN MARSH-STARLING 127 



and vegetation, is the boundary-line dividing their 

 habitats* So nearly alike are these two birds in 

 colour, language, and habits, that they seem rather 

 like races than species ; and they were so regarded 

 by naturalists until recently, when the pampas bird 

 was raised to the rank of a distinct species, with the 

 name of Trupialis defilippii. Unfortunately the old 

 name militaris fits the Pampas, and not the Pata- 

 gonian, Starling best ; but of this I shall speak when 

 I describe the former species. 



In its form T. militaris resembles the Common 

 Starling of Europe, but differs from it in habits, 

 flight, language, size, and colouring; its upper 

 plumage being fuscous mottled with yellowish grey ; 

 the throat and bosom scarlet inclining to crimson. 

 This hue varies greatly, the breast-feathers being 

 often tipped with white, which subdues the intense 

 red, and gives it a rosy tint in some individuals. The 

 female is paler-plumaged than the male, and has 

 less red on the breast* 



It inhabits the whole of Patagonia to the Strait of 

 Magellan, but is confined to the valleys or to the 

 neighbourhood of water; and Durnford remarks 

 that it is a useful bird to the traveller in that thirsty 

 country, as its presence is a sure indication of water. 

 It is resident, and is seen in small parties of four or 

 five, or in small flocks seldom exceeding twenty or 

 thirty in number. It feeds and lives on the ground, 

 and only occasionally is it seen to perch on a low 

 bush. Its flight is strong, and it flies about a great 

 deal, and usually utters its song when on the wing. 



