48 THE NATURALIST IN AUSTRALIA. 
the ordinary metal kind made for parrots. Previous to this addition, which was most 
appreciated, the metal perch was, as shown in the lower figures of Plate X., adapted 
for the better prehension of the birds’ feet by a close splicing of whip-cord. Other 
portable perches were extemporised by a rough log fastened transversely across a 
shallow wooden box, or raised to a convenient height by a small block only at each 
end. In no instances were the birds fastened to their perch. During the day time they 
rarely manifested any inclination to leave it, and when taking exercise in the evening 
systematically returned to it after making brief excursions in the immediate vicinity. 
It was only for their ocean travels that a cage had to be provided, and 
even under these conditions they occupied their cage only at night. The two 
illustrations of this series, Plate IX., figs. 19 and 20, in juxtaposition depict 
incidents on the birds’ voyage from Brisbane to London. In the latter one, seated 
on their long box perch, they are comfortably ensconced in the top berth of their 
owner's cabin that was placed at their disposal. This tedious voyage was safely and 
happily accomplished, though not with entire exemption from that common lot which 
befalls most sea-farers, whether mortals or “more-porks,” at some one or other of the 
more tempestuous periods of their earlier voyages. Fig. 19 of the same Plate, with its 
attached legend, obviates all necessity of lifting the veil upon later harrowing details. 
Among the remaining photo-reproductions of these Podargi inviting notice, 
that of Plate VIII., fig. 2, is of special interest. It represents an episode in the 
birds’ domesticated career wherein they 
evinced a most energetic determination to 
construct a nest and enter upon the cares 
W., Saville-Kent, Photo. 
NEST BUILDING EXTRAORDINARY, p. 49. 
