IBIS. 
131 
or flight moves on in a single string almost, that is to say, 
they fly side by side, and so close together as almost to touch 
the tips of each others’ wings. When the numbers are great, 
the string forms a waving line; if not very numerous they 
keep a straight front. This peculiarity shews at once what 
birds they are, even if they fly too high to be in other respects 
distinguishable.’ ‘On the wing it is not only strong, but swift 
and graceful, its wings being expanded at full length, and 
moved with ease and in regular succession. Sometimes the 
bird will sail along for some distance, or soar in half circles: 
it flies generally very high, and when it alights, it flaps its 
wings quickly as it comes near the ground.’ This quotation 
is from Meyer, who adds, ‘When a flock intends to alight, 
the line becomes broken; on reaching the chosen spot, the 
birds fly in all directions, in great confusion, sailing about 
and alighting one after another in quick succession. It is 
equally beautiful to see the flock take wing in the same wild 
confusion; but in a very short space of time the line is formed 
and raised high in the air, during which the length increases 
by one bird after another taking its place right and left, and 
thus extending or increasing the line until they move off in 
this peculiar frontal line.’ 
They feed on small fish, crickets, beetles, and other insects, 
mollusca, worms, the fry of fish, frogs, and the lesser reptiles, 
small Crustacea, and shell-fish, snails, and different water-plants. 
In search of such they wade deep, and sometimes swim a 
little on their way back. 
The only note that appears to be uttered is a ‘wrah,’ and that 
when the bird is suddenly disturbed or alarmed. 
The nest is placed among the ‘debris’ of reeds on some 
slight elevation, and is formed of dry grass, flags, and other 
such materials. Several nests are placed in proximity to 
each other. 
The eggs are two or three in number, and of a very pale 
green colour. While the female is sitting, the male bird brings 
her food, and. when not thus engaged, stands not far off, 
keeping sentry. 
This is a bird of resplendent appearance, the metallic lustre 
which gilds the greater part of its plumage being exhibited 
in various lights to great advantage. 
Male; weight, about eighteen ounces; length, one foot ten 
inches; the bill, in some specimens upwards of six inches in 
length, but in others considerably less, no doubt according to 
