Correspondence.



61



is included in an article — assuming, of course, that such range is known

to the writer. For instance, how many members who have not

specialized in the Parrot tribe (I have not myself) have any accurate

idea as to where an uncommon Lory or a Lorikeet comes from when the

bare name alone is mentioned ? What proportion knows — 5 per cent,

or 10, or 40, or 70 ? To be candid, I know I don’t (without hunting

out the subject), except the part of the continent in a general way

where the genus is most represented.


As an interchange of views by members is more likely to be profitable

if not overdosed with too many sections for discussion, it seems

advisable to stop at the present with the above two.


Frederick D. Welch.



Sirs,— Re Dr. Philip Gosse’s proposal for articles on other pets

besides birds. I think it would be delightful, and hope it may be carried

into effect.


M. Williams.


THE CLUTCH OF BIRDS OF PREY

Sirs,— Referring to the question raised by Mr. Welch regarding

the clutch of raptorial birds, perhaps the following experience, showing

that the powerful toe-grip is not restricted in that order to Eagles,

Falcons, and Hawks, may be of interest. Some years ago in the

Gardens I had occasion to handle one of the Egyptian Vultures. With

a swift grab at my hand, the bird got hold of the free part of my

thumb. Fortunately his toes went round it, without the claws

penetrating ; but I shall not easily forget the severity of the piuch.

Getting a keeper to hold the bird I tried with my free hand to extend

the toes and release my thumb ; but quite without avail. Another

keeper had to be summoned to my rescue. By using both his hands

he was able to set me free, congratulating myself that the Vulture

had not gripped the palm of mv hand ! It is interesting that a Vulture

which does not use its feet for killing prey, but for holding its food

to the ground while pecking it, should have, I should judge, almost as

powerful a clutch as a small Eagle.



R. I. Pocock,



