THE ISLAND OF CEYLON. 
29 7 
There is another species of pigeon of a greyish colour, 
which is nearly as large as that described ; and the woods 
every where abound witli smaller pigeons of different kinds 
and various colours. 
I have been told that the pelican is a native of this island, 
but I never saw it. There are a few partridges, of the 
small red-legged kind, found on the west coasts between 
Nigumbo and Manaar. Many attempts have been made to 
propagate the breed more extensively here ; and General 
Macdowal was at particular pains in procuring them from 
Tutocoreen and other parts on the opposite coast, when 
they were let loose in the cinnamon gardens to breed. 
Among a great variety of smaller birds, we particularly 
distinguish the honey-bird. It is so called from a particular 
instinct by which it discovers the honey concealed in trees. 
As if designed for the service of the human species, this 
bird continues to flutter about and make a great noise till 
it has attracted the notice of some person, and induced 
him to follow the course it points out to him. It then 
flutters before him, till it has led him to the tree where 
the bees have lodged their treasure. The man then carries 
off the honey, leaving a little for the use of the bird, 
which silently and contentedly watches till it is permitted 
to enjoy its reward. As soon as it has eaten up its por- 
tion, it renews its noise, and goes in quest of another 
tree, followed by the man, who finds a guide here provided 
for him by nature. 
Q cl 
