bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NOTES ON THE BREEDING OF THE RED‐BREASTED CHAT OENANTHE HEUGLINI
Authors: Macgregor. D. E.
Published: April 2008

Details are given of the (underground) nest, eggs and breeding behaviour. Noteworthy points are the change in the parents' attitude to the harrier Circus macrourus when their young appeared above ground and the use of the nest as refuge for the young at that stage.
A VISIT TO GRIMSEY (ICELAND) JULY‐AUGUST 1949
Authors: Foster R. J. , Baxter R. L. , Ball P. A. J.
Published: April 2008

The birds found on Grimsey in 1949 are listed. Special points of interest concern the Meadow Pipit, Fulmar, Snipe, Redshank, Bridled Guillemot and Little Auk. Gannet and Wheatear had disappeared. Particular attention was paid to the distribution of Brunnich's and Common Guillemots, which were found to be breeding respectively‐more on the steeper cliffs and more on the broader ledges.
GEOGRAPHICAL VARIATION IN THE WOODPECKER PICUS FLAVINUCHA GOULD.
Authors: Biswas. Biswamoy
Published: April 2008

A series of over 260 specimens of Picus fiavinucha from all over its range was studied in relation to intraspecific geographical variation.

 The author considers Picus mentalis and Picus chlorolophus its closest relatives.

 A key to the races of P. flavinucha is given.

 Synonyms, characters, range and a list of specimens examined are given for each subspecies.

 A new race, Picus flavinucha marianae, is described from Mt. Victoria, Chin Hills, Burma.

 The nature of geographical variation of the more important taxonomic characters is discussed.
NOTES ON THE BIRDS OF SOUTH‐EASTERN NIGERIA.
Authors: Marchant S.
Published: April 2008

A systematic account (with field‐notes) of the birds of south‐eastern Nigeria is given, based on a collection of about 350 skins made between 1946 and 1949, mainly in the neighbourhood of Owerri. The range of several species is extended by new Nigerian records and the distribution of the races of other species more clearly defined.
SOME IMPRESSIONS OF SPRING MIGRATION IN CYRENAICA MARCH‐MAY 1952.
Authors: Stanford Lt.‐Col. J. K.
Published: April 2008

Migration was proceeding throughout Cyrenaica from 21 biarch to 16 May, though some wintering species had already gone.

A inass of migration seems to mobe from south to north through the whole area, and a remarkable medley of species migrates or halts simultaneously.

These birds must get little or no water, arid after the desert‐crossing drop in wherever there is shade or vegetation.

The Subalpine Warbler appears to pass through on a front of at least 500–600 miles and Hoopoes and Orioles on a wide front.

There was little evidence of coasting movements except by Swallows, and the bulk of coasting seen on the north seaboard was to the west or northwest.

Daylight movement from south to north was slight, seen only in Lesser Kestrels, Curlews, Coursers, Bee‐eaters, Short‐toed Larks, Corn Buntings, Linnets and Turtle Doves, with individuals of other species.

“Invisible migration”, as evidenced by arrivals, was very heavy.

Warblers were scarce, except Nightingales, Wood and Icterine Warblers and Common Whitethroats. Willow‐warblers were very scarce.

Notes are given of the migration of Quail, Cuckoos, Flycatchers and Red‐footed Falcons.

A considerable array of waders and water‐birds passes north from the desert and stays till mid‐May on marshes near the sea or pools in the Gebel el Achdar.

A few instances are given of birds singing, or being in moult, on migration.
MIGRATION IN THE MEDITERRANEAN AREA
Authors: Moreau R. E.
Published: April 2008

The enormous proportion of migrants that must pass undetected is stressed both on statistical grounds and on certain features of the records.

There is no evidence for any important concentration of migrants on the short crossings, by the Straits of Gibraltar, Sicily or the Bosphorus, except for soaring birds at the first and last of these.

These birds migrate at the Bosphorus using thermals, but only up to about 14.00 (not, as at Suez, also during the afternoon); while at the Straits of Gibraltar they migrate against winds, often strong.

Numerous species cross regularly the widest part of the Mediterranean, between 16′ and 20′ E., over the Ionian Sea, where the north‐south distances are 430–800 miles. There is less evidence for crossing of the other widest stretch, France‐Algeria, 430 miles.

The fact that the longest crossings are freely used and that most species do not concentrate on the shortest crossings indicates general broad‐front movement irrespective of obstacles.

Occurrences of groups and species are summarized and some comparisons are made. Points of interest include:—

Harriers are more often seen at sea than other big raptors.

The western cranes appear to concentrate on short crossings much more than the eastern do.

The movements of Quail and Turtle Doves are of special interest.

More Swallows are seen, both at sea and coasting, than any other birds, and many times more than House‐martins.

Common Redstarts and Robins have been recorded at sea surprisingly often, especially by comparison with the Sylviidae.

Anatidae and Limicolae are almost unknown at sea.

The leading published references to migration in the countries in the Mediterranean area are summarized in an appendix.
SOME ASPECTS OF INCUBATION IN THE MANX SHEARWATER PROCELLARIA PUFFINUS, WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO CHILLING RESISTANCE IN THE EMBRYO
Authors: Matthews. G. V. T.
Published: April 2008

1. Large‐scale excavations and observations during homing experiments provided incidental data on incubation.

2. The main period (median 90%) of egg‐laying is from 25 April to 20 May, of hatching from 17 June to 12 July. The median dates for these processes are 6 May and 28 June. The average incubation period is 53 days.

3. Incubation shifts are long (average 5 days) and variable, 2 to 16 days if unrelieved. Temporarily deserted eggs were only found in about 1% of undisturbed nests.

4. Nevertheless many well‐developed eggs hatched after being chilled in the burrow for up to 7 days. Others remained viable for up to 13 days in the laboratory. The length of the chilling period and the stage of development at which it occurs have little effect on the proportion surviving.

5. The ecological and evolutionary significance of the faculty is considered, with a brief survey of chilling resistance in the embryos of other birds.
BIRD NOTES FROM NORTHERN ASIA MINOR, 1946–1948
Authors: Ogilvie Iain H.
Published: April 2008

Observations are given on spring and autumn migration and cold‐weather movements as seen in the Çatalazi Valley, on the Black Sea coast 200 miles east of the Bosphorus.

The Systematic List gives the status of all the birds seen in this valley, together with other field observations.
A STUDY OF THE CAPE WAGTAIL MOTACILLA CAPENSIS
Authors: Skead C. J.
Published: April 2008

The biology of the Cape Wagtail, supplemented by data collected from the study of a partial albino female, is described. The pairs have territories which they would appear to hold for years, the partial albino having been around the same farmstead for about eleven years.

The main breeding season is from August to November but may extend through the summer. The male presents nest material to the female.

The partial albino female had a song not shared by the male.

She laid eight clutches (Sept. 1947‐Aprit 1948), the incubation periods of which ranged from 13½ to 14½ days.

Nestling period ranged from 14 to 18 days.

Roosting may be communal or in pairs.

The species is parasitised by the Diederick Cuckoo.
AFFINITIES OF THE FRUIT‐PIGEON PTILINOPUS PEROUSII PEALE
Authors: CAIN A. J.
Published: April 2008

The purpuratus species‐group of the genus Ptilinopus includes, besides the species listed by Ripley and Birckhead (1942), P. pulchellus and P. superbus,

The peculiar Fijian species P. perousii is more closely related to P. superbus than to any other member of the species‐group. In cqmparison with P. superbus it shows a simplification of colour pattern and loss of protective colouration in the male, which is to be expected of a species evolving in the absence of close relatives and under the influence of only a low degree of visual predation.

The trends of colour‐pattern seen in P. perousii are shown to an even greater extent by members of the luteovirens species‐group, which have lived under similar conditions, but for a longer time.
THE BEHAVIOUR AND GENERAL BIOLOGY OF THE GRACEFUL WARBLER PRINIA GRACILIS.
Authors: Simmons. K. E. L.
Published: April 2008

A study was made of Graceful Warblers Prima gracilis in Lower Egypt during 1949 and 1950, particularly of a community of five pairs in a nursery garden at Fay id (Canal Zone).

The Graceful is a bird of low vegetation and feeds on or near the ground. Adults remain paired throughout the year and live in the same plot of ground which is defended against other Gracefuls only during the reproductive cycle. There are two moults a year, before and after reproductive activities which extend from late January to November. During this time at least three broods may be reared.

At the beginning of the reproductive cycle the male's mouth and bill darken and he begins regular song, the territories now become re‐established by song and, when necessary, by display and attack. The average size of territory at Fayid was 2750 sq. yards.

The common displays of the male in the reproductive season are “bowing” and “wing‐snapping”, both being probably derived from locomotory intention‐movements. Song, a threat‐note (“jilting”) and a pure intention‐movement (“flicking”) are associated with the two displays, which are thought to be primarily aggressive. “Wing‐fanning” is a less frequent male display.

Sexual behaviour is described. The female “retires” from the male's company just prior to the copulation period. In her absence he builds. She assists later, and both birds continue throughout incubation.

Three to five eggs make up a clutch in Lower Egypt. A seasonal rise and fall in clutch‐size is indicated. Both sexes incubate in short spells (longest recorded 16½ minutes). In very hot weather at one nest the eggs were covered only 9% of observed time. The incubation‐period is about 11–12 days.

Some numerical data on parental attention are given. The nestling‐period is about 13–14 days. The development and behaviour of the young are outlined. Often the male tends the juveniles alone when the female is, presumably, preparing for another brood.

Reactions towards man and other predators are outlined and discussed in relation to the aggressive drive and tameness.
THE BIRDS OF THE CAPE VERDE ISLANDS
Authors: Bourne W. R. P.
Published: April 2008

Three islands were visited at the start of the rains of 1951. Details of an undescribed collection made by the ‘Blossom’ expedition of 1923–24 are included in this account.

The north‐eastern islands are flat and arid, those of the south and west mountainous with more rainfall on the windward slopes. The main habitats include salt‐pans and lagoons, desert, scrub, fields, coffee plantations, tropical irrigation, ravines and towns. There are large sea‐bird colonies exploiting an area of upwelling, rich in food, off the African coast.

Thirty land‐birds and ten sea‐birds include relict temperate Palaearctic species established during the Pleistocene and more recent tropical species. The local populations are small, dark, tame and unusually abundant. They differ from those of Europe in feeding habits, habitat preferences, breeding‐seasons, small clutch‐sizes, high nest‐sites, the pitch of voice and appearance. Similar variations occur in Portugal and other Atlantic Islands, and in different islands of the group.

In some species changes of form, habitat preference, or feeding‐habits can be correlated with changes in the local environment or the incidence of inter‐specilie competition for food. The warblers of the islands may nest high in trees as a result of a change in the incidence of predation.

The rains occur in August, September and October. All the small birds, including Palaearctic species which normally nest in the northern spring, breed at this time. They normally fail to breed in the absence of rain; one Palaearctic species has nested in the spring when the normal rains failed. The scavengers nest after the rains; the water‐birds in the dry season; the desert species and inshore sea‐birds have prolonged breeding seasons with seasonal changes in clutch‐size.

The pelagic sea‐birds breed early in the year when there is an increase in the food‐supply off the African coast. The petrels may avoid competition for food by breeding at different seasons.

The clutch‐sizes of the islands are unusually small. This may be a consequence of a shortage of food.

An annotated systematic list of the birds reported from the group is included.
TERRITORIAL BEHAVIOUR OF THE YELLOWHAMMER EMBERIZA CITRINELLA AND CORN BUNTIN E. CALANDRA.
Authors: Andrew R. J.
Published: April 2008

In the area studied the territory of the Yellowhammer tended to be long and narrow, e.g. based on a hedge, that of the Corn Bunting to be centred over corn fields. The different forms of territorial fighting in the two species are described. In both species a prime function of the territory appears to be to facilitate the formation and maintenance of the bond between the sexes.
ON THE BIRD POPULATION OF THE SPRUCE FOREST COMMUNITY IN SLOVAKIA.*
Authors: Turček F. J.
Published: April 2008

The bird population of the Norway spruce communities was studied for seven years in Slovakia, by quadrat counts and transects. The work was done between 300 and 1700 metres a.s.l. mostly in pure stands.

A total of 63 species of birds in 46 genera and 21 families was found. Of these, 43% were resident, 57% migrant and vagrant. The zoogeographical origin of the species is considered and they are tabulated according to altitudinal distribution. They are divided into food groups—herbivores, mixed feeders, insectivores and carnivores—and into five strata or zones according to the food‐niches.

The species populations are listed by numbers of individuals and weights in grams per 100 hectares of spruce forest—totals about 1300 birds weighing about 48,000 grams. The results are compared with data from other countries and communities. Both density and biomass are lower than in other forest communities in Slovakia, the highest being in the bottomland forests around the Danube.

Coal Tit, Chaffinch and Song Thrush (i.e. mixed feeders) are the species forming over 5% of the population and its biomass. The next most important group is the herbivores and the third insectivores.
A STUDY OF COLONIES OF THE KITTIWAKE RISSA TRIDACTYLA (L.)
Authors: Coulson J. C. , White E.
Published: April 2008

The history of Kittiwake colonics at Marsden, Co. Durham and North Shields, Northumberland is given. Since the original colonization of the area in 1930, nine colonies have been formed which, in 1954, ranged in size from 13 to 648 nests.

New colonies were formed by birds being present on the site a year before breeding commenced. Immigration continued for at least the first four years of a colony's existence. Colour‐ringing showed that adult Kittiwakes exhibited both colony‐and site‐tenacity.

A large proportion of non‐breeding birds was present, higher in the younger colonies. These birds returned to the colonies later than the breeding birds and the majority were young birds returning for the first time. In 1953 at least 19% of the population in the area were non‐breeding birds.

Colony age and colony size were closely correlated. The return to the colonies and onset of breeding within the colonies occurred first in the oldest and last in the youngest colonies.

Birds of the same age bred at the same time irrespective of colony size. Furhter, the spread of breeding within large colonies was greater than in small ones, whereas the reverse would have been expected if “social stimulation” was of major importance.

It is conducted that the age of birds within a colony is more important than “social stimulation” in influencing the time of breeding.
OBSERVATIONS ON A COLONY OF BRÜNNICH'S GUILLEMOT URIA LOMVIA IN SPITSBERGEN
Authors: Pennycuick C. J.
Published: April 2008

A colony of about 500 pairs of Brünnich's Guillemots was watched between 23 July and 20 August 1954, i.e. over the fledging period.

The calls of adults and chicks, and the situations in which they are used, are described.

Fights were very frequent, but not between established neighbours, who were often touching one another when brooding.

The behaviour pattern used when the chick leaves the cliff, in which both adults and young become very excited, often miscarries, leading to protracted mobbing of the chick on the water.

The behaviour of non‐breeding birds is described, and the reasons for their presence are discussed.

The flight characteristics of the bird, and its special techniques for landing and taking off from vertical cliffs are described.

Predation was slight.

A method of measuring activity is described. It was found that there was no diurnal rhythm of activity, and that the interval between feeds remained roughly constant throughout the period of observation.

Inadequate results were obtained with a method for estimating the proportion of non‐breeders in the colony.
ON THE SHAHEEN FALCO PEREGRINUS BABYLONICUS.
Authors: Dementiev G. P.
Published: April 2008

The distribution variation, moult and biology of Falco peregrinus babylonicus are discussed
THE BREEDING BIRDS OF THE HULEH SWAMP AND LAKE (NORTHERN ISRAEL).
Authors: Zahavi Amotz
Published: April 2008

1. The Huleh swamp and lake, which are now under a draining scheme, are described in relation to their vegetation habitats and the birds breeding in them.

2. Data are presented on the breeding birds, concerning their distribution within Israel, laying season, nest site and clutch size.

3. The Common Heron, White‐tailed Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Mallard, Baillon's Crake, Yellow Wagtail, Moustached Warbler and the Great Reed Warbler are here first recorded as breeding in Israel.

4. The relationship between Acrocephalus arundinaceus and A. stentoreus is discussed.

5. Some remarks are made on habitat selection of the warblers breeding in the area.
THE EFFECT OF AGE ON THE BREEDING BIOLOGY OF THE KITTTWAKE RISSA TRIDACTYLA
Authors: Coulson J. C. , White E.
Published: April 2008

1. From 1954 to 1956 inclusive, the biology of individual marked Kittiwakes was studied at North Shields, Northumberland.

2. It was concluded that older Kittiwakes reacted to the breeding stimulus earlier, more intensively and with greater success than younger breeding birds.

3. Birds with previous breeding experience returned to the colony before birds breeding for the first time and these before non‐breeders.

4. Before breeding started, birds which had bred previously spent more of their time at the colony than those about to breed for the first time.

5. Birds breeding for at least the second time laid the first egg 7·5 days earlier than those breeding for the first time.

6. Breeding started one day later for every four days the return to the colony was postponed.

7. Older breeding birds showed greater nest‐site tenacity, laid larger clutches and had greater breeding success than younger birds.

8. The chicks in broods of two (but not of one) increased in weight more rapidly where the parents had previous experience.

9. Breeding Kittiwakes showed strong colony tenacity, but 24% of the marked non‐breeding birds were subsequently seen in other colonies.

10. Over half the birds retained the same mate as in the previous year.
A SEARCH FOR SPRING MIGRANTS IN THE WESTERN PYRENEES 1957
Authors: Gardner‐Medwin D. , Murray J.
Published: April 2008

Three weeks were spent on the Spanish side of the western Pyrenees in March and April.

At the Col de Ibaneta and in the Roncal valley migrants were visible only in poor weather. At the top of the Col de Gavarnie very little migration was seen.

Several species of migratory waders were found near two inland lakes at Montmesa and Ayerbe.
THE BREEDING OF THE GREATER FLAMINGO PHOENICOPTERUS RUBER AT LAKE ELMENTETTA, KENYA COLONY
Authors: Brown L. H.
Published: April 2008

The first authentic breeding record of the Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber in East Africa is described, and a general history of their colonies on Lake Elmenteita is given.

Estimates of numbers are given and possible food supplies are discussed.

The breeding cycle is described with notes on display, nests, eggs, young and behaviour of adults.

Factors affecting mortality are mentioned, and a description of predation is given, with special reference to the disturbing effect of Marabou Storks Leptoptilos crumeniferus.

Breeding success is estimated at from 21% to 74% in different colonies. Possible reasons for the lower success in the colonies are discussed.
THE BREEDING SEASON IN S.W. ECUADOR
Authors: Marchant S.
Published: April 2008

The breeding season on the Santa Elena peninsula in S.W. Ecuador is described on the basis of 1761 nests found in the four years 1955 to 1958. The environment and climate are outlined—a cool, dry season from about May to November and a warm, variable wet season from December to April, when alone rain may fall. It is shown that each year the general breeding season is closely correlated with the rainfall. The peak of breeding varies from year to year by at least a month and its length from about six weeks to three and a half months.

Although all species for which there are enough data, are stimulated to breed after important falls of rain, most of those species of small land‐birds which are completely resident, attempt to nest before the rain and often continue for some time afterwards. Some specific differences, between seed‐ and insect‐eating finches, seem to be adaptations to food supply and the availability of nest sites and building material. Such evidence as there is suggests that raptors, waders and waterfowl also nest in the wet season (often late), rather than in the dry season. (Unfortunately herons and sea‐birds do not nest in the area.)

Annual differences in the amount of breeding by the same species are thought not to be entirely due to differences in weather between years.

It is suggested that the late (August‐September) breeding in the Galápagos Islands described by Lack (1950) and the apparent dry‐season nesting of raptors, waders and waterfowl there might be found to be linked with variable or abnormally wet weather, if records of rainfall from the islands were available.
NOTES FROM JORDAN, LEBANON, SYRIA AND ANTIOCH
Authors: Hollom P. A. D.
Published: April 2008

Observations on distribution and field‐characters were made during two short visits in successive years to the area lying between southern Turkey and southern Jordan.
THE EXPERIMENTAL REGULATION OF ZUGUNRUHE AND THE SEXUAL CYCLE IN THE BRAMBLING FRINGILLA MONTIFRINGIUA
Authors: LOFTS B. , MARSHALL A. J.
Published: April 2008

1. Bramhlings of both sexes, including young males, failed to show significant gonad enlargement or to develop spring Zugunruhe during the normal migratory period while artificially kept under winter day‐lengths.

2. When the photoperiod was suddenly changed to 14 1/2 hours (equalling mid‐April day‐lengths) nocturnal unrest became apparent in all birds within three days, even though the normal migratory period was now past.

3. This temperate‐zone, spring‐breeding migrant therefore does not come rhythmically into breeding condition as do the young of the xerophilous Budgerygah and Zebra Finch.

4. Concurrently with light‐induced Zugunruhe there occurred a striking fat deposition and, in the adult males, a minor gonad enlargement. A separate experiment involving the photo‐stimulation of castrated adults tends to suggest that Zugunruhe (and therefore possibly migration) can occur in the absence of sex hormones but the regeneration of a single gonad in one of the castrates rendered the results inconclusive.
THE AFRICAN FISH EAGLE HALIAETUS VOCIFER ESPECIALLY IN THE KAVIRONDO GULF
Authors: BROWN L. H.
Published: April 2008

1. The African Fish Eagle Haliaetus vocifer is discussed, with especial reference to the Kavirondo Gulf area of Lake Victoria.

2. Numbers in I his and adjacent areas are given, and reference is made to possible movements on Lake Victoria.

3. Territories and home ranges of seven pairs breeding on a group of islands overlap somewhat, with a tendency towards mutual stimulation by adjacent pairs, and the possibility of breeding and hunting difficulties through overcrowding.

4. Some pairs appear to be permanently resident in certain areas without breeding at all.

5. The data on food indicate that the African Fish Kagle eats more birds than has generally been supposed, especially Hamingos; the diet may be summed up as fish when abundant, otherwise water‐birds and some carrion.

6. The breeding cycle is discussed under the heads Display, Nests and Nest‐building, Eggs and Incubation, the Fledging period, and the Post‐Hedging period.

7. Breeding seasons, and their possible relations to food supplies and climate are discussed.

8. Three years' data on breeding success indicate a mean annual replacement rate in the Kavirondo Gulf of 0–6 young per pair per annum, with wide variations in the performance of individual pairs.
EGG‐COVERING BY THE WHITE‐FRONTED SANDPLOVER CHARADRIUS MARGINATUS
Authors: HALL K. R. L.
Published: April 2008

1. 118 daylight observations were made on the degree of cover of eggs with sand in 41 nests of the White‐fronted Sandplovcr C. marginatus on the coastal areas south of Cape Town. In 44% of cases, eggs were covered to a depth of more than half their surface, and in only 23% of cases were the eggs uncovered. Cloud, wind strength and direction, and temperature of sand and air at the nests, had no significant association with extent of cover, except for one minor local variation.

2. Eggs were better covered after 07.00 and before 15.00 hours suntime; and at individual nests eggs were more covered on second inspections in a day than on first.

3. On 16 out of 118 occasions when birds were about to leave their eggs on the approach of a human intruder they made a special leaving‐scuffle with their legs rapidly sweeping sand inwards towards the eggs. The movements and posture appeared essentially the same as those of pecuarius in such a situation. The leaving‐scuffle appears to be distinct from the infrequent settle‐scuffling of marginatus, and there is evidence that marginatus will incubate partly covered eggs.

4. The leaving‐scuffle has so far been seen only in situations where a conflict of antagonistic drives of incubation and escape may be inferred. Variations in egg‐cover by marginatus are mainly determined by the bird's behaviour and not by accidents of the weather, as previously supposed. But the process whereby the fully protective covering by pecuarius may have evolved may only be revealed by further comparative studies on other Charadriidae.
THE FAUNISTIC IMPORTANCE OF THE SCARP OF ANGOLA
Authors: HALL B. P.
Published: April 2008

The geographical features, in particular the western escarpment, and the climate and vegetation of western Angola combine to divide the area into three avifaunal zones.

An unusual relationship exists between some related forms of different zones. This is illustrated by two groups of examples in which the characters of the forms are summarised, their distribution is shown on maps, and an attempt is made to interpret in evolutionary terms the picture presented.

Endemic or near‐endemic forms of the Escarpment Zone are listed with some notes on their affinities with other species.

The botanical history of the area is discussed in relation to the conclusions reached on the evolution of the birds.

The Escarpment Zone of Angola has been of considerable importance in the evolution of species in western Africa, south of the Equator.
NOTES ON AUTUMN MIGRATION AT THE BOSPHORUS AND IN THE AEGEAN
Authors: Ballance D. K. , Lee S. L. B.
Published: April 2008

1. Migration was studied at the Bosphorus from 20 August to 8 September 1959 and observations made at the Dardanelles, on Lesbos, and in parts of Greece.

2. Daily counts of soaring birds migrating over the Bosphorus are given. The species involved were principally White Storks Ciconia ciconia, Honey Buzzards Pernis apivorus, and Black Kites Milvus migrans. Few eagles Aquila sp. were seen.

3. The winds were mostly strong, northeasterly. Heavy migration occurred only when the wind was light. It is considered that migration of soaring birds over the Bosphorus is virtually inhibited by strong N.E. winds; but whether they cross the Sea of Marmara to the south is undecided.

4. White Storks were observed migrating over the Sea of Marmara and the pattern of their migration through the area is discussed.

5. Both nocturnal and diurnal migrant passerines were recorded in only moderate numbers.

6. Large numbers of gulls and terns (Laridae), especially of Little Gulls Larus minutus, were seen in the Bosphorus and elsewhere.
THE SONGS OF SOME FAMILIES OF THE PASSERIFORMES. H. THE SONGS OF THE BUNTINGS (EMBERIZIDAE)
Authors: Thorpe W. H. , Lade B. I.
Published: April 2008

1. The songs of the Emberizidae are discussed. Recordings of at least one species of 18 of the 21 genera are analysed by means of the sonograph.

2. The songs of this family are characteristically short, repetitive and simple, primarily for territorial proclamation and therefore with good specific differences.

3. The similarities between the songs of the genera may be accounted for by convergence as many have similar reproductive and nesting habits.

4. Many songs are stereotyped, but some show a great deal of variation, which in some cases may provide a means for individual recognition.

5. Wheezing and buzzing, duration of song, and the tendency to deliver songs in bursts of one type are considered to be possible generic characters.

6. A tendency for a lark‐like quality to be developed is found in those species with a song flight.
PROBLEMS OF MEDITERRANEAN‐SAHARAN MIGRATION
Authors: MOREAU R. E.
Published: April 2008

It is estimated that birds travelling to winter south of the Sahara must on average enter Africa at the rate of 250,000 per mile of longitude, which over a two‐month period gives an average daily entry of about 4,000 birds per mile. Only a small fraction of these come within the range of observation. There are reasons to suppose that the main directions may be southwest in autumn and northeast in spring, involving somewhat diagonal crossings of the desert, rather than directly north and south.

The geography, ecology and winds of the Mediterranean and Sahara are described. The average width of the Sahara from north to south is at least 900 miles, but owing to the aridity on the southern edge in spring (mitigated in autumn) many birds probably start their flight up to 1,200 miles south of the Mediterranean. There are indications that migrants do not concentrate on oases.

Wind data are given for altitudes up to 3,000 m. (10,000 ft.), which on the whole are much more favourable to birds in autumn than in spring, but with less difference in the sectors Algeria‐Tripoli than elsewhere and with the proviso that in spring at 2,000 m. upwards the winds are favourable to diagonal flight, northeastwards. Hypothetical flight‐performances are estimated and discussed; and it is concluded that ability to fly some 50–60 hours without refuelling is essential for most migrants in spring. The physiological implications are considered. If as much pre‐migration fat is put on in autumn as seems to be needed in spring, then many birds should be able to fly non‐stop from Europe to the tropics, some 1,300‐1,500 miles.

Ringing in Tunisia and subsequent recoveries there have provided evidence of accurate navigation directed to a point half‐way through the birds' journeys.

The evidence for general abundance of birds in spring and autumn is assembled sector by sector. In the northern deserts of Algeria, in Tunisia and on the coasts of Tripoli and Cyrenaica far more migrants are seen in spring than in autumn, while further east and also in Morocco, the disparity seems to be less. It is concluded that, at least in the central sectors named, a much larger proportion of birds makes a more or less continuous flight, without coming under observation, in autumn than in spring.

The information regarding the incidence of 57 species of trans‐Saharan migrants is summarized and discussed for each. A number of species have almost entirely escaped detection, especially in autumn and especially in the eastern half of the area.

Most species of migrant are shown to travel over various sectors of the Sahara, irrespective of opportunities to refuel, at both seasons and it seems that many birds fly non‐stop from Europe to the tropics in autumn. Indications that some species or populations travel further east at one season than at another are discussed. “Migration divides” which have been detected in parts of Europe are as a rule not reflected by differences in abundance on the south side of the Mediterranean.
SIBLING SPECIES OF SMALL AFRICAN HONEY‐GUIDES
Authors: Chapin James P.
Published: April 2008

It is now clear that Indicator exilis does not have so extensive a range or so many geographic races as were attributed to it only a few years ago. Alongside exilis, over a large part of its distribution in forested tropical Africa, lives a sibling species, I. willcocksi, of somewhat more greenish colouration, usually more streaked on the crown. On the higher mountains in the Kivu region of Central Africa dwells a third species, I. pumilio, of small size, with beak proportionately still smaller. A fourth species, I. meliphilus, markedly paler grey beneath than any of the preceding, is restricted to rather dry regions from eastern Africa to Nyasaland and Angola. Many details of distribution and geographic variation will require further investigation.
SOME PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS ON MIGRATION
Authors: Yapp W. B.
Published: April 2008

The calculations of Odum (1960) on the fuel reserves of small birds are shown to be misleading, since they are based on the figures of Pearson (1950), which are not precise enough for the conclusions that have been drawn from them. A discussion of the energy consumption of small birds shows that fuel reserves are likely to be adequate for flights of several hundred miles. Water loss is discussed and is suggested as more likely to be the factor in limiting duration of flights.
MIGRATION IN SPRING RECORDED BY RADAR AND FIELD OBSERVATIONS IN SWEDEN
Authors: Mascher Jan W. , Stolt Bengt‐Olov , Wallin Lars
Published: April 2008

In April 1960, the volume of migration over an inland area in Uppland, Middle‐Sweden, was simultaneously recorded by radar and field observations. From the data obtained frequency curves were plotted for each day and compared. Correlation between the radar and field observation curves (considering the total field material as well as the separate species) was poor, and it is concluded that most of the radar echoes must have originated from birds flying at heights invisible from the ground, while most of the visible migration was too low (mostly below 650 feet) to be caught by the radar.

The directions of movement were much the same on all days, heading mainly E.N.E.‐N.E., both on radar and in the field, but on the last day visible migration headed distinctly more to the north.

The mean speeds of the echoes varied between 43 and 70 m.p.h. (maximum 75 m.p.h.). Allowing for wind the still‐air flight speeds were 35–52 m.p.h. on all days except the last day, when few were above 45 m.p.h. This suggests that mainly the same groups of species were participating in the invisible movements recorded by radar every day.

The high‐flying visible migrants (650–1,650 feet) were mainly water‐birds, which presumably formed at least part of the radar migration. This assumption is well supported by the recorded still‐air speeds of the echoes.

On each day an appreciable return migration was noted in the field but scarcely at all by radar, the returning birds generally moving low against the wind. On a day of cold northerly wind later in the spring, however, a distinct return migration was seen on the radar during the first hours of darkness.

The commonest genera observed in field were Fringilla, Turdus, Corvus, Columba, Vanellus, Larus, and Numenius, in that order. On two days larger numbers of Lapwings and crows were recorded, but the total number of flocks recorded was unaltered. In such cases the increased numbers of birds will go unrecorded by radar.
THREE SIBLING SPECIES OF ALECTORIS PARTRIDGE
Authors: Watson George E.
Published: April 2008

In southeast Europe, two populations of Alectoris partridge meet. These differ sharply in several minor qualitative characters with no evidence of introgression. Morphological, ecological, and behavioural differences suggest that these are separate species, A. graeca and A. chukar.

Clinal geographic variation of colour in the eastern Mediterranean within these two species appears to be correlated with climatic factors. The tendencies toward longer bills in southern mainland and island populations may constitute adaptations to drier and insular environments.

Habitat preferences, diet, reproduction, and altitudinal distribution of these two forms are discussed and, where possible, contrasted.

An additional, but less well documented example of sympatric Alectoris species is found in western China.

Display in Alectoris partridge tends to emphasize the morphological patterns which are useful in taxonomy. Species characters may likewise function as warning stimuli and therefore tend to prevent mixed flocks.

It is concluded that at least one of the two Balkan species has recently reached Thrace, and that at present altitudinal and possibly slight morphological and behavioural differences act as sufficient isolating mechanisms to prevent hybridization.
THE EGG‐ROLLING OF BLACK‐HEADED GULLS LARUS RIDIBUNDUS
Authors: Beer C. G.
Published: April 2008

Model eggs were placed at the edges of the nests of gulls, and the number of models that were rolled into the nests within a certain time was recorded, for all stages of the reproductive period. The results indicate that the readiness to perform egg‐rolling increases steadily as the date of laying draws closer, remains maximally high during the laying and incubation periods, and declines steadily after hatching. This pattern is similar to the distribution found for other responses with an incubation function.

A model egg was fixed at the edges of a number of nests of gulls in the incubation period. A gull could attempt to roll but the model would not move. Gulls with eggs in the nest and gulls with their eggs removed from the nest were tested in this way! The presence of the fixed model disrupted incubation behaviour to a certain extent, and the presence of the eggs resulted in the birds performing fewer rolling attempts, and a greater proportion of intention rolling movements, than when the nest was empty. Thus when the tendency to settle and sit and the tendency to roll an egg from outside the nest are both highly activated, they can interfere with each other.

There was no evidence that nest‐building movements appear as displacement activities when the egg‐rolling action is prevented from being carried through to completion, or when the tendency to stay sitting in the nest and the tendency to rise and roll an egg are in balanced conflict.
THE BREEDING OF SOME IRAQI BIRDS
Authors: Marchant S.
Published: April 2008

Based on about 425 nest records, made personally, and 150 supplied by previous observers, the breeding of 36 species of birds in Iraq is described. For 26 species the data are scanty, being less than 20 records each; but more material is available for the rest, which allows the discussion to be divided into sections for nest‐site, nest, eggs, clutch‐size, incubation and nestling period, breeding success and breeding period. Three‐quarters of the species discussed breed in Europe and about a third of these reach Britain. Wherever possible a comparison is made between breeding biology in Iraq and Europe or elsewhere. The most complete comparisons are for Streptopelia decaocto and Pica pica. For S. decaocto the results are discussed in the light of the expansion across Europe, the greater breeding success, longer breeding period and different habitat probably being the main factors in this spread. The performance of P. pica in Europe and Iraq is closely similar. Other species for which some interesting comparisons can be made are Pterocles alchata, Hirundo rustica, Hippolais pallida and Prinia gracilis,

Knowledge of the breeding of water birds in Iraq is poor, but evidence is given to show that some species (e.g. Himantopus himantopus) may be required to be opportunists in their breeding, due to the variable and fluctuating water conditions which now exist in central Iraq.

The general breeding season in central Iraq is discussed. For most species it is shown to be from March to June, usually being advanced by one to two months over that of the same species in Europe, but otherwise not differing in the number of broods or in behaviour. This is correlated with the shorter and earlier spring period of growth in Iraq. Certain species which are seed‐eaters (e.g. Columbidae) nest later and for a longer period, as in Europe, while the specialized Pterocles are adapted to breed in the heat of the summer. There is evidence that breeding at Mosul and northern Iraq generally starts about one or two weeks later than near Baghdad.
THE INCIDENCE AND ORIGIN OF SPOTTED PATTERNS IN THE ESTRILDIDAE
Authors: Harrison C. J. O.
Published: April 2008

The plumage of the Estrildidae was examined in order to determine the incidence and origin of the spotted patterns.

In the Australian grassfinches a series of feathers showing the derivation of spotted patterns from transverse barring was found in two species. In most species such patterns consisted of single broad spots, but in two species paired spots were present.

The mannikins show three types of spotted pattern. One is derived from transverse barring, another from a rachial streak, and the third from a combination of both bars and streaks. The last one is not a true spotted pattern, the effect being due to overlapping feathers.

The waxbills show spotted patterns derived from transverse barring, the development of which exactly parallels that shown by the grassfinches, but differs in that almost all patterns show paired spots.

The spotted patterns appear to have been derived from a basic barred pattern in most cases, and to represent an increasing complexity of pattern rather than a gradual loss.

It is considered that similar patterns in widely separated species are due to parallel evolution of patterns and not to phylogenetically close relationship.

Where various species show different successive stages in the evolution of a pattern, this does not indicate that one is ancestral to another. Since the species concerned have a common family relationship, the potential for such a pattern may be present throughout the family.

Since the patterns have a function in specific recognition, it is suggested that similar patterns are likely to recur in widely separated localities and that the patterns of sympatric species are likely to differ. If similar patterns are present in one area they will probably indicate close relationship.

The inference of this in relation to plumage pattern problems in some other orders is briefly discussed.
THE EXTINCT AVIFAUNA OF ST. HELENA ISLAND
Authors: Ashmole X. P.
Published: April 2008

In this paper the bird bones collected in three separate localities on St. Helena during the British Ornithologists' Union Centenary Expedition to Ascension Island are catalogued and described. At Prosperous Bay there are deposits which appear to be only a few hundred years old, containing many intact bird bones, referable to Puffinus assimilis/lherminieri, Pelagodroma marina, Sula sula, Fregata ariel, and a new rail Aphanocrex podarces. In Dry Gut, north of Bencoolen, are apparently older deposits with bones of a medium‐sized Pterodroma sp. and a humerus of Upupa epops. On Sugar Loaf Hill are extensive deposits which may be very old, containing fragmentary bones of a large Puffinus sp., of Puffinus assimilis/lherminieri, Pelagodroma marina, and at least one species of columbid.

There is now evidence that thirteen species of oceanic birds have bred on St. Helena at some time (plus one—Sula leucogaster—whose status is still uncertain). Of these, only six species are now known to breed on the island, though two more may do so.

The only surviving native land‐bird is Charadrius sanctae‐helenae, but at least three additional species were present in the past.
THE BLACK NODDY ANOUS TENUIROSTRIS ON ASCENSION ISLAND. PART 2. BEHAVIOUR.
Authors: Cullen J. M. , Ashmole N. P.
Published: April 2008

At a breeding colony on Ascension, many Black Noddies remained throughout the year. The main part of the paper describes their behaviour, with special reference to daily rhythm, sunning, absence of “panics”, nesting (with possible value of the birds' own guano for cement), fighting, and courtship (with details of ground and aerial displays), copulation (apparently rare) and the behaviour of parents and young.

On Ascension the birds nest on small cliff‐ledges, elsewhere they also use trees, both kinds of sites being relatively inaccessible to ground predators, unlike the majority of terns, which nest on the ground. As with the Kittiwake, another cliff‐nesting species which has diverged from ground‐nesting stock, a number of the Black Noddy's peculiarities can be related directly or indirectly to its nesting site. Indeed the occurrence in just these two species of two features absent in their ground‐nesting relatives indicates that there are some cliff‐nesting adaptations which had previously been overlooked. The Black Noddy's adaptation in this respect can be summarised as follows:

Cryptic adaptations lost. Cryptic plumage of nestling and juvenile. Dispersal of egg‐shells and droppings.

Adaptations acquired, and their consequences. Shortage of nest‐sites, focussing territory on nest, with consequent increasing, though not exclusive, importance of Bridling as “song”. Allopreening between mates. More elaborate nest‐building, with gathering of material (if available), which is cemented together with guano; side‐stepping and depressing tail when shaping nest. Young intolerant of others; crouch if threatened instead of running; peck at feet of intruders, or beak‐hide to appease attacks, precocious development of adult (threat?) plumage.

The Brown Noddy is the closest relative of the Black, and what little is known of its breeding biology suggests it is less specialised for nesting above the ground, and that its ability to nest on the ground as well as in bushes and trees allows it to breed in localities where the Black Noddy could not.
THE BIRDS OF ENDAU MOUNTAIN IN THE KITUI DISTRICT OF KENYA
Authors: Tennent J. R. M.
Published: April 2008

The results of an expedition to Endau, an isolated mountain in eastern Kenya which retains a cap of mist‐forest, are described. The avifauna of the forest was found to be remarkably poor despite apparently favourable conditions, and a number of forest species found in similar isolated residual hilltop forests were absent. Notably no representative of the genus Turdus was found. Possible explanations of these anomalies are discussed.
NOTES ON THE MOTTLED PETREL PTERODROMA INEXPECTATA AND OTHER PETRELS
Authors: Richdale L. E.
Published: April 2008

Field work by the author on petrels began in 1936 and finished in 1957, many of the results of which have already been published. The Mottled Petrel was not studied in detail, as were the other species concerned, and this paper brings together those observations which were made on the Mottled Petrel and compares them with the other species studied. In the main the timing of the breeding season and the breeding behaviour of the Mottled Petrel appear to be much the same as for the Sooty Shearwater.