242 
Sketch of 
tiou were Auckland and Campbell Islands, both of 
volcanic formation, constituted chiefly of basalt and 
greenstone, assuming frequently the columnar form: 
in some places displaying fine pillars, highly magnetic ; 
as in a promontory, 300 feet in height, called Deas 
Head, in Auckland Island. In Campbell Island, 
several specimens of agate and quartz were picked up 
on the beach, near which some traces of limestone also 
appeared. In both islands, the hills form moderately 
high ranges, seldom attaining an altitude of 2000 feet. 
The animal kingdom, as might be expected, has but 
few representatives. There is no species of Mammalia , 
except the common hog, now running wild in the woods : 
it was probably introduced into Auckland Island by some 
whalers. The birds are all New Zealand species, from 
which country Auckland Island has, most unquestionably, 
been colonized by the feathered tribe. The land birds are 
very limited in number, and do not amount to more than 
seven or eight species : a Falco , Anthus , Psittacus, and 
four or five other species allied to Meliphagidce , of which 
the New Zealand Tui (native name) and a small olive- 
green bird are the chief choristers of the woods. 
These woods are in many places nearly impenetrable : 
the trees from 20 to 30 feet in height, forming dense 
thickets, impervious to the sun’s rays; the rich alluvium 
below being clothed with cryptogamic plants, growing in 
rank luxuriance. Even the fallen trees are closely en¬ 
veloped in complete tunics of lichens and mosses. 
This island is well worthy the attention of colonists. 
The soil is generally good, and in many spots is 
composed of a rich black mould, highly productive, and 
of considerable thickness, resulting from the decom¬ 
position of the volcanic rocks, and the decay of a 
redundant vegetation. 
The climate is healthy, although somewhat humid, and 
