322 Mr. J. H. Gurney on additional Species of Birds 
congregate and leave again in March and April; they are fond 
of alighting to rest on the outer twigs of bushes, stems of tall 
grass, and trees, especially at the time of their departure, when 
many hundreds assemble together. Like most other Swallows, 
they are almost constantly on the wing. 
[The specimen sent appears to be adult, and identical with 
the Swallow of Great Britain, though perhaps slightly more 
rufescent on the abdomen. Considering the occurrence of this 
and of the preceding species in Natal to be a very interesting 
circumstance, I have submitted both specimens to Dr. Hartlaub, 
who agrees with me in the above identifications.—J. H. G.] 
190. Hirundo cucullata, Bodd. Hooded Swallow. 
Female. Iris dark umber; bill dark brown; tarsi and feet 
dusky brown. 
These birds arrive in October or November, and leave again 
in March or April; they are fond of building under the eaves 
of houses, constructing a chamber of about 8 inches in diameter, 
with a long horizontal neck to it; the nest is lined with fine 
grass, feathers, and down. When flying about in search of 
food, they constantly utter a short note, somewhat resembling 
the “ chisick 33 of the Sparrow, but rather modulated. 
191. Hirundo atroc^erulea, Sundev. Little Blue-black 
Swallow. 
Male. Iris brown; bill black; tarsi and feet brown. 
These are the most uncommon of the Swallows here; they 
frequent the open country, and appear to be solitary in their 
habits, skimming with rapidity and ease over the long grassy 
hills. I have never seen them take a rest; but on and on they 
go, apparently without ceasing. 
They are, I think, here all the year round; at all events, I have 
seen them in the following months, viz. March, April, August, 
November, and December. 
192. Atticora holomelas (Sundev.). Little Green-black 
Martin. 
Male and female. Iris very dark brown; bill black; nostrils 
large and oval; tarsi and feet dusky pale. 
