COLLECTED ON THE COAST OF WESTERN AFRICA. 
that it is almost impossible to get a shot at it. But at Accra, 
where they occur iu very great numbers, and are probably but little 
annoyed, they are tolerably tame. They are generally seen perched 
on a tall tree in the distance, or flying across the impenetrable 
jungle. The note, although resembling that of the English rook, 
is yet different, being a deeper hoarse scream.” 
“ Ploceus textor — (13) — Shot at Cape Coast Castle, 5th June, 
1847, while perched on a bombax tree, from the boughs of which 
hung several scores of bottle nests. Irides of a bright orange red. 
A similar species, which is yery common in India during the grain 
season, is occasionally taught tricks by the natives, such as loading 
and firing a small cannon, &c. I have myself witnessed a most 
extraordinary arrangement in the nest of this bird ; on one side of 
the interior, a piece of clay may be seen adherent to the nest, into 
this the bird, during the season of incubation, places a glow-worm 
or fire-fly diming the night.” 
“ Euplectus ignicolor — (6 . 17) — Fantee name Akhim butukra. 
—Cape Coast Castle, 2d June, 1847. Have made their appearance 
since the commencement of the rainy season. Are seen in great 
abundance in this vicinity, in small flocks of males and females. 
Note, a short sharp chirp.” 
“ Euplectes flammiceps — (15) — Cape Coast Castle, 1st June, 
1847. (Dr. Gordon criticises the figure in the 4 Birds of Western 
Africa,’ as scarcely doing justice to the elegant and graceful form 
of this bird.) They are very familiar, and hop from branch to 
branch, within a few yards of the person who visits their re- 
treats.” 
“ Spermophaga cyanorliynchus , Sw. — (69) — Shot 18th October. 
Birds of this species seem to have only lately made their appearance 
in this vicinity, that is, within the last few weeks, during which time 
the various species of ploceus , but especially the red and black- 
headed, have been gradually disappearing, and now there are but 
a few to be seen about the old Indian corn fields.” 
“ Crithagra chrysopogon $ — (29) — Shot 30th J une, at Cape 
o 
