350 Reviews. [Jl^,^, 



birds are considered. Thus, the heavier or more technical matter 

 is agreeably sandwiched with racy and interesting non-scientific 

 writing which captivates the reader. 



Photography is fast establishing itself as an indispensable hand- 

 maiden to the sciences. Illustrations (set in groups, and most 

 excellently engraved in half-tone) are given of over 400 Aus- 

 tralian birds, while 20 " tricoloured " blocks depict 177 species 

 in natural colours— a complete triumph in photo-mechanical skill 

 by the etchers, Messrs. Patterson, Shugg and Co., from paintings 

 by Miss Ethel M. Paterson. The only drawback noticed is that 

 the birds appear stuffed and mounted — none the less valuable as 

 illustrations than skins and mummies in an ornithologist's cabinet 

 or museum. 



How this ornithological compendium, or " Australian Birds in 

 a Nutshell," was written and published for 3s. 6d. is marvellous. 

 Its author and his enterprising publishers have indeed given to the 

 world a unique book. Australians especially will be greatly 

 indebted to Mr. Leach for his untiring labours, and to the long- 

 sightedness of his department in sanctioning the pubUcation of 

 such a useful " bird book," the just reward of which must surely 

 be many editions. 



South Australian Ornithological Association. 



The usual monthly meeting was held at Dr. Pulleine's rooms, North- 

 terrace, on Thursday evening, 2nd March, when Capt. S. A. White 

 presided. There was a large attendance. The secretary (Mr. J. W. 

 Mellor) reported having liberated Mallee-Fowl on Kangaroo Island, 

 and stated that he had examined the country composing the reserve 

 on the west end of the island. He found it very sterile and rough, 

 and quite unfit for grazing, much less agriculture. The Government 

 should extend the area of the reserve. Votes of thanks were passed 

 to the Marine Board for having conveyed the birds to Kangaroo 

 Island, and to the lighthouse officials for their assistance. The good 

 service rendered by Mr. Mellor for his care of the birds was much 

 appreciated. Dr. Morgan stated that sufficient money had been 

 promised to procure another batch of Mallee-Fowl. The subject of 

 the Pelican was discussed, and it was agreed to invite other scientific 

 bodies to send representatives to wait upon the Government, re- 

 questing that the bird be placed upon the partially protected list, 

 at least. All deeply deplored the wretched slaughter of young 

 Pelicans on the Coorong. Mr. Robert Zietz was of opinion that the 

 Australian Crane, or Native Companion, should be protected, as it 

 was becoming very scarce. Mr. Edquist, of the Education Depart- 

 ment, reported that 116 bird clubs had been established in conjunction 

 Avith the schools, and the roll showed over 4,000 members, who had 

 pledged themselves to protect our native birds. He also stated that 

 he wished to start a competition in the schools for the best essays 

 on birds. He would like to have a silver cup to be competed for as 

 first prize. A subscription list was started, and the money required 

 was raised in the room. 



