PLATE ZXZZXHXTVI. 



GEN U S M YRI AGA ( Vig. and Horsf. ) 



^~^F this genus four species inhabit Australia, and several others the islands to the northward. 



MYRIAGA PLUMBEA (Vig. and Horsf.) 

 L EA D EX- COL U RED EL YCA TCHER. 



THIS is an inhabitant of New South Wales during the summer months, but in winter it goes to 

 warmer climes, returning again in spring. It frequents the banks of gullies and creeks, remaining 

 among the high trees, where it captures numerous insects, both on the branches and in the air. 



It is seen in pairs, the male frequently uttering a low whistle. It flits about with great 

 activity, and even when perched on a branch, moves its tail about, as if it was impossible for it to keep 

 perfectly still. 



The nest is constructed of twigs and moss, and lined with feathers. The breeding season is 

 in August and September. 



The sexes differ considerably in colouring. 



The male has the upper surface, throat, and breast deep bluish-lead colour : wings and tail 



slate colour, tinged with blue ; abdomen, flanks, and under tail-coverts, buffy -white ; irides, reddish- 

 brown ; bill, black ; legs and feet, blackish-brown. 



The female has the wings and tail brown, and the throat and breast bright rusty-red. The 

 rest of the plumage is as in the male. 



Habitat : New South Wales. 



MYIilAGA CONCINNA (Gould). 



PRETTY FLYCATCHER. 



IN the northern part of Western Australia this species is found, both among the swamps and 

 thickets near the coast, and in the more open forests towards the interior. 



It feeds entirely on insects, procured in the air and among the foliage of the trees. Its 

 son<>- is varied, sometimes consisting of a loud whistle, and at other times of a cheerful and rather 

 pleasing note. 



