Tame Swallows.



ii3



but is acquired very slowly in this way. By imitation it is learned

quickly, and is performed successfully within a few minutes.


“ G.—The art of flying is wholly instinctive. The Terns

learning the use of their wings as soon as the primaries are

large enough to support them.”


Experiments have been tried, the object of which has been

to induce Ospreys to stay, and if possible to nest in the Park,

where there is plenty of water well stocked with fish ; but up to

the present the young birds which have been obtained for the

purpose have flown away, never to return.


This publication is illustrated with admirable photographs,

one of which represents several young Red Flamingoes ( Phceni -

coplerus ruber) which have been obtained from the colony in the

Bahamas, and are doing well in the Park.



TAME SWALLOWS.


A remarkable instance of the degree to which Swallows

can be tamed is narrated in the Bullethi de la Sociele National

d’Accliniatation de France * for August. M. G. Pays-Mellier

considers the Swallow the most intelligent, amusing, and

interesting of all insectivorous birds.


Every year, for some years past, he has reared from the

nest, some of the early broods of Swallows. He allows them

complete liberty, aud during the summer months these birds may

be seen, flying at great heights, but always coming at the least call

to perch on his finger, and remaining there without the slightest

fear of any number of strangers. They always know their

owner and fly to him whenever they catch sight of him, and very

quickly despatch the mealworms or moths which he always

gives them.


M. Pays-Mellier allows his Swallows perfect liberty

during the day time, and they may be seen flying with their wild

companions to great heights, or chasing the insects which hover

close to the ground. Or they may frequently be observed

perched upon the house-tops, uttering their delightful little



We have to thank Dr. P. L. Sclater for kindly forwarding a copy of this journal.—E d.



