THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA. 
1821. This is evidently Astur novcehollaiidice (Gm.) founded on the New 
Holland White Eagle of Latham’s Gen, Synopsis, Vol. I., p. 40 (1781). The 
latter seems to have procured the description of the bird from Dr. J. R. 
Forster. No specimen was in the British Museum at the time. ‘Name 
Goo-loo-hee ’ (Watling).” 
From that time onwards the bird became better known and little of note 
was recorded. The most intricate question has been the determination of 
the relationship existing between this and the preceding form, and this had 
better be discussed here, as it was the first described form. 
Gould’s account I am reproducing to show how little advancement has 
been made since his time. 
“ This species has perplexed ornithologists more, perhaps, than any other 
member of the Raptorial Order, the point at issue being whether it be distinct 
or merely an albino variety of Astur Raii [=cmerea]. I have seen both birds 
in a state of nature, and critically examined numerous examples after death 
with regard to size, admeasurement, etc., and except in colouring I found 
no difference whatever between the beautiful snow-white bird and the grey- 
backed individuals so frequently shot in the brushes of the eastern parts of 
Australia. Mr. Ronald C. Gunn and the Rev. T. J. Ewing, of Tasmania, 
however, incline to believe them distinct, and, in support of this opinion, call 
attention to the fact that none but white birds have been found in that island ; 
but while I admit this to be true, I do not fail to recollect that the most 
lovely individual I ever shot in Tasmania had fiery-red irides ; still it is only 
fair to state they were not pink as in albinoes, and that most frequently the 
irides are bright yellow ; the colouring of these organs, therefore, is evidently 
inconstant, and not to be depended upon as a characteristic. We know little 
or nothing of the nidification of either of the birds ; could it be ascertained 
that the grey-backed and the white individuals mate with each other, they 
should be considered as identical, but until then it will be better, perhaps, to 
keep them distinct. Cuvier has hazarded the opinion that the white bird 
is an albino variety which has become permanent, and that they have the 
power of perpetuating their white vesture.” 
North {Austr. Mus. Spec. Cat., no. 1, pp. 184-189, 1911) does not discuss 
the matter, accepting the two birds as distinct species, but noting Savidge’s 
record of two different birds paired. 
However, simultaneously, in the Emu, Vol. X.., p. 247, Dec. 1910, 
appeared the following note : 
“ Grey v. White Goshawks. Mr. H. L. White has received the following 
interesting communication from Mr. H. G. Barnard from Cape York : 
‘ What I am about to state is perfectly authentic, and I have witnesses to 
46 
