362 SPOKTING IN BOTH HEMISPHERES. 



the birds by slow and almost imperceptible degrees, until 

 they come within shot; indeed, without a gun, they have 

 been known to approach their prey so close in this manner, 

 as to be able to snare or spear them. 



On our return towards Ballarat, and not far from the 

 track we were pursuing, I observed a gum-tree that had all 

 the appearance at a distance of being covered with snow, and 

 stood out in striking contrast to its green brethren. Upon 

 a nearer approach, I discovered that this was caused by an 

 enormous flight of cockatoos of the pink-breasted description, 

 without crests. By creeping carefully towards the spot we 

 obtained fair shots, two of which we delivered at the mass 

 whilst perched on the tree, and two upon their rising on the 

 wing. Ten birds fell to our guns, and others kept gradually 

 dropping as they winged their way high over the forest, 

 screaming a most unearthly chorus. These birds, when 

 disturbed and frightened, fly to an immense height, becom- 

 ing at last mere specks to the vision, but their loud scream- 

 ing notes are heard even when they are almost invisible 

 themselves. Old inhabitants of the colonies consider they 

 make very good soup, but I must own I never could coincide 

 with the opinion. The flesh is nearly black, exceedingly 

 dry and hard, and has all the appearance 3 and I should 

 imagine the taste, of carrion. 



