288 The N.Z. Journal of Science and Technology. [Jan. 
noticing the visitor circle round high overhead and, with a harsh cry, 
disappear into the bush. They feed on nectar from flowers, and also on 
insects. 
Cacatuidae. 
Red-fronted Parrakeet ( Cyanorhampkus novaezelandiae). —Small flocks 
of the red-fronted parrakeet are met with in all parts of the island from the 
caretaker’s orchard to the summit. They feed mainly on seeds. 
Yellow-fronted Parrakeet (C. cmriceps). —Stated by the caretaker to be 
rarely seen, only one or two pairs having been noted. I did not observe it. 
COLUMBIDAE. 
Pigeon ( Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae) .—Pigeons may be seen throughout 
the forest, while their noisy flight is frequently heard overhead. They 
feed on various fruits, of which there is an abundance in the summer-time. 
In the winter, however, when there are no fruits to be had, they feed on 
leaves. 
Fig. 3.—Mount Herikohu : looking west from summit of Mount Archeria. 
Alcedinidae. 
Kingfisher ( Halcyon sanctus). —Very common along the coast on the 
shingle-flat and in some of the gullies. Besides insects, the small black 
lizards which are found on the shingle beaches form a portion of its food. 
Xenicidae. 
Rifleman ( Acanthisilta chloris). —I did not observe this species. The 
caretaker states that it is occasionally seen. 
Muscicapidae. 
North Island Wood-robin ( Miro longipes). —These gentle birds are met 
with singly or in paPs right through the bush. They are quite fearless ; 
indeed, they appear to like human company, for whenever one stops for 
a moment they come hopping along and turn over dead leaves, looking for 
insects, within a yard or even less from the observer, pausing now and then 
and turning their heads to look at him. 
North Island Tomtit ( Myiomoira loitoi). —Equally fearless and plentiful 
as the robin ; the tomtit is much more restless. It is constantly on the 
move, hopping from twig to twig searching for insects, or momentarily 
