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Obituary—The Duchess of Bedford



“ One of the planters (in Taveuni) is an ardent aviculturist and

knew of a number of nesting-holes of this species. He had, however,

not had much success himself with this species in captivity. These

holes were situated low down in dead stumps which had been left in

his coco-nut plantation. The site was, in the majority of cases, on a

level with the ground, thus explaining, in all probability, the ease

with which the Kula becomes wiped out by the Mongoose in other

localities.”


After describing the difficulties of obtaining young birds and in

rearing them, Dr. Bahr tells of the troubles of the long voyage home

and of his arrival with three specimens, one of which survived but a

short time. He continues :—


“ The two survivors have now assumed magnificent adult plumage

with an outstanding ruff of red and green. Their beaks, which at first

were brown, became bright yellow when three months of age. In

May they underwent a partial moult of the head and breast feathers,

and a complete moult in August (i.e. when eight months old). All

summer they have been kept in a large cage in the house, and on

warm days in the open.


“ They feed now almost exclusively on porridge, though they are

very partial to fruit, especially grapes, apples, and cherries. They

partake of a warm bath daily and are extremely lively. During the

older weather they require to be placed in a warm cupboard at night.

They are indeed fascinating pets and would doubtless become very

popular could they be successfully transported to this country.”


D. S-S.



OBITUARY


The Duchess op Bedford


Members of the Avicultural Society will wish to record their sincere

regret at the death of the Duchess of Bedford, who had been Vice-

President since 1906, and profound sympathy with the Duke and the

Marquess of Tavistock in their bereavement.


Although never taking a very active part in the affairs of the Society,,

the Duchess was an experienced ornithologist and, in 1910, was one.



