PLATE XIV. 



PHALACBOCORAX MELANOLEUCTJS. 



LITTLE CORMORANT. Genus : Phalacrocorax. 



/^vX the coast this variety may be occasionally met, but it prefers for its habitation the upper reaches 

 of inlets and the fresh waters of the interior. It is among the most timid of birds, and it is very 

 rarely that more than two are seen together ; most commonly a single individual is met with, and it is 

 always ready to fly at the slightest disturbance ; specimens are therefore difficult to obtain. Its favourite 

 resting-place is on the point of sume snag projecting from the water, or on the branches of trees 

 immediately above the surface. 



It has been stated that members of this species make their nests in the ti-tree scrubs along the 

 creeks and rivers of the far northern coasts of Australia, where many pairs build in the same tree. When 

 nesting, they are said to be very bold in the defence of their eggs and young. 



The sexes are alike in colouring. 



A black streak runs along the crown of the head and back of the neck ; back, rump, flanks 

 and tail, shining blue-black : wings and scapularies brownish-black, each feather having a deep black margin. 

 Sides of the head and all the under surface, pure white ; irides, grey ; bill, yellow : culmen, greyish ; legs and 

 feet, black. 



Habitats : All parts of Australia suitable to its habits. 



