Notes on the Birds of the Samhhtir Lake ^' Us vicinity, 3G9 



51.— Circus Swainsoni, Smith. 



The pale harrier is very common all round the lake during 

 the cold weather. 



54. — Circus seruginosus, L. 



Young" birds of this species are very common during* the 

 cold season. I saw one of these birds swoop at a myna, A. 

 tristis, and carry it off under a madur bush. During- some 

 of my marches I have observed a fair number of adult birds. 



56. — Milvus govinda, Sykes. 



This kite is very common. I have taken its eggs from mango 

 and peepul trees during March and April. 



57.— Pernis cristata, Cuv. 



This species is very rare. I have only noticed it on two 

 occasions about the lake. 



59. — Elanus melanopterus, Baud. 



Not common. I found it breeding near to Sambhur. For a 

 description of the eggs and nest;, vide page 23 ante of " Stray 

 Feathers.^' 



60. — Strix indica, Blyth. 



Very rare. I have never shot this bird here, but a bird- 

 catcher brought me two live birds which he caught in the hills 

 near to Mata Pahar. 



65.— Bulaca ocellata, Less. 



Very rare. I have only met with the mottled w^ood-owl twice 

 during my residence here. 



68. — Otus brachyotus, Gmel. 



The short-eared owl is not very common ; still, when beatino- 

 for game in the long grass or scrub jungle, one or two are sure 

 to be flushed. One specimen I have is very ferruginous on the 

 breast and abdomen. 



70. — Bubo coromanda, Lath. 



Not common, but a pair are generally to be found in some of 

 the topes of trees. 



76.— Athene brama, Tem. 



This bird is very common. A pair have their nest in the thatch 

 of my house. 



On one or two occasions I have shot one of the pair, and found 

 a mate occupying its place within the next two or three days. 



