68 Zoology. 



of domesticated breeds and hybrids as were in a fit state for 

 exhibition were put on view in the North Hall, together with a 

 selection of skeletons and skulls. Steps were at the same time 

 taken to acquaint breeders at home, and the officials of museums 

 abroad, that the collection of domesticated breeds and hybrids 

 was in course of reorganisation and development ; and the Director 

 takes this opportunity of thanking those concerned for the cordial 

 response they have made to his request for assistance. 



As new specimens were received and mounted, a large pro- 

 portion has been added to the exhibited series. Others, however, 

 more especially skulls and skeletons, have been placed in the base- 

 ment to form the nucleus of a study series. A large number of 

 skulls and skeletons of domesticated breeds are still included with 

 the store series of Mammalian osteology in the upper part of the 

 building — mainly for the reason that opportunity has not yet 

 been found for sorting them out and carrying them below. It 

 should be added that a collection of photographs of modern breeds 

 forms an essential part of the scheme. And also that, when 

 practicable, the various breeds should be represented by skins 

 and skeletons of well-known animals — more especially prize- 

 winners. It is thus hoped that in the course of time the collection 

 will be of the highest value to the breeder, as well as to the 

 student of variation. 



The following are some of the more important items in this 

 series : — 



About 1827. 



Lion-tiger hybrid (young) ; born at Edinburgh in Atkins's 

 menagerie, 1826 or 1827. 



About 1836. 



Galla ox horns. — Presented by Captain H. Clapperton, B.N., 

 and Lt.-Col. D. Denham. 



About 1840. 



Hungarian bull, stuffed ; head alone now preserved. 



1845. 



A large series of skulls and skeletons of Indian and Tibetan 

 (as well as some European) mammals. These include dogs, cattle, 

 sheep, goats, pigs, horses, etc. — Presented by B. H. Hodgson, Esq. 



