Ixviii 
INTRODUCTION. 
109. Melizophilus pbovincialis .......... Vol. 11. PI. LIX. 
Dartford Warbler. 
A stationary but very local species in the south of England, rare in the midland and northern counties, 
unknown in Scotland and Ireland. Evinces a preference for heathy lands, particularly those clothing- the 
greensand ; hence it is abundant in some parts of Surrey, Sussex, and Hampshire ; while on the Continent, 
where this kind of formation does not exist, it is either scarce or entirely absent. Is extremely shy and 
recluse in its habits. Breeds in May. 
“Are you aware,” says Mr. Gatcomhe, in a letter dated Dec. 20, 1868, “that the Dartford Warbler is 
tolerably common in the furze-brakes near Lyme Regis ? A few days since I had a very nice specimen sent 
me in the flesh from that place; and the sender informed me that he had lately killed five, but the one 
forwarded was the only one be could find among the long gorse. What a great pity that four of these 
interesting birds have been killed and lost !” 
Genus Curruca. 
The members of this genus possess considerable vocal powers, are more shy or distrustful in their habits 
than the Whltetbroats, and are less sprightly in their manners. Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor, 
Western India, and China are frequented by the members of this genus, two of which visit England during 
the months of summer. 
110. Curruca ATRicAPiLLA ........... Vol. II. PI. LX. 
Blackcap. 
Winters in North Africa, and migrates to us in April in considerable numbers, which, after spending the 
summer and breeding here, wing their way to whence they came. Common all over England, rare in 
Scotland and in Ireland. As a songster it almost rivals the Nightingale. 
111. Curruca orphea ............ Vol. 11. PI. LXI. 
Orphean Warbler. 
One specimen at least has been killed in Britain, for the particulars of which mde the letterpress opposite 
the Plate on which it is figured. 
112. Curruca hortensis ........... Vol. II. PI. LXII. 
Garden-Warbler. 
An unobtrusive and plainly coloured bird; has a loud garrulous song; arrives in April, when the nettles 
