28 
That birds of this genus migrate, I had a convincing proof when 
returning to England in 1852. When about half way between 
Bombay and Aden, on the evening of either the 8th or 9th May, a 
large flock of Bee-eaters was observed fluttering about the ship, 
some three or four of which were caught after dusk, when they had 
settled 6n the ropes and shrouds. I obtained three or four for the 
purpose of preserving their skins, but in the confusion occasioned by 
a shower they were unfortunately thrown overboard. They were 
larger than Merops indicus. 
Family Hatcyonip2z. 
Genus Hatcyon. 
HaLcyon SMYRNENSIS. 
This and the black and white Kingfishers are the most common of 
their tribe in the Deccan, frequenting almost every stream and 
nullah. The former breeds during the month of May in holes in 
the banks of rivers, laying as many as seven eggs. They are of a 
beautiful pinky tinge, owing to the colour of the yolk showing 
through the thin delicate shell. The egg is about the size of that of 
the little Indian Owl (Noctua indica). 
Family CapRIMULGIDZ. 
Genus CaPRImuLeus. 
Of the eggs of these birds, of which there appear to be several 
varieties in India, I merely subjoim a note made by Mr. Jerdon from 
Mr. Elhott’s notes. He states, that he once found the eggs of the 
common species, two in number, placed on the ground without any 
nest. They were pink, spotted with brown. 
Family HirunpDINIDz. 
Genus CypsEuvus. 
CYPSELUS AFFINIS. WHITE-RUMPED SwiIFT*. 
I should certainly say that this is a common bird in the Deccan, 
about the city of Ahmednuggur. I have seen their nests crowded 
together under the roofs of old buildings, choultries and temples, 
and obtained the nest and eggs from a rock in the range of hills 
about twelve miles from Ahmednuggur, on the road to Aurungabad. 
This nest was obtained on 21st September 1849. It was built of 
mud and lined with grass, and contained two white eggs. The eggs 
are considerably elongated in form. 
CypseLus PALMARUM, Hardw. Bawastan Swirt. 
This Swift, according to General Hardwicke, builds its nest on the 
* This Swift builds twice during the year; I obtained a nest and eggs in 
September, and also found a nest with young birds in April. 
