Genus LOCUSTELLA. 
Gen. Cuar. Those of Sauicarta, excepting that the beak is deeper at the base and runs more 
to a point; rictus bristles rudimentary ; the hind claw longer, remarkably slender and 
clean made; and the tail broader and more decidedly graduated. 
REED LOCUSTELLE. 
Locustella fluviatilis. 
Le Bec-fin riverain. 
Since we learn from M. Natterer that this bird closely assimilates to the Grasshopper Warbler, Locustella 
sibvlans, in habits, manners, note, particularly in a shrill inward tone producing the effect of ventriloquism, 
place of resort, food and nidification, and as, conjoined to these affinities, we find that they agree still more 
closely in structural form, which differs considerably from that of the birds forming the genus Saicaria of 
Selby, particularly in the lengthened hind claw and in the shape of the beak, we feel no hesitation in 
assigning to these nearly allied species a distinct generic situation, under the restored title of Locustella. 
The specific term of fluratilis as applied to the present bird conveys an erroneous impression, for M. Natterer 
informs us that although it resorts to low situations, it nevertheless does not confine itself to reed-beds, 
but rather prefers swampy coppices and thickets. It is extremely scarce in the western portion of the Euro- 
pean continent ; but is plentiful in Austria and Hungary, and is very common in the island-gardens in the 
Danube near Vienna. 
The sexes exhibit little or no difference of plumage, nor does it appear to undergo any periodical changes. 
The upper parts are olive clouded with brown; under surface lighter; the throat and breast whitish 
spotted with brown ; under tail-coverts greyish white ; bill and tarsi brown. 
We have figured an adult male of the natural size. 
