The NABURUP (_Amydrus Naburup_), is a bird about nine inches and
two-thirds long; the wing measures five and a quarter inches, and the
tail four inches. The colour of the plumage is a dark steel blue, except
upon the six first quills, these being reddish brown upon their outer
web, light brown upon their inner portion, and blackish brown at their
tips; the iris is light red, the beak and feet pale black. The coat of
the female resembles that of the male, but she is somewhat smaller. The
young are brown, spotted with steel blue. In its habits this species is
social and its song agreeable; like its congeners, it builds amongst the
rocks of Abyssinia, forming in some cases small settlements, and weaving
its nest with so little skill as to permit the eye to penetrate its
interior. Both sexes assist in the work of incubation, but beyond this we
have no knowledge of their habits.
* * * * *
The ORIOLES (_Orioli_) constitute a family of beautiful birds, regarded
by some ornithologists as allied to the Thrushes, and by others classed
with the Birds of Paradise, but to which we venture to assign a position
in this place. They are recognisable by their elongate slender bodies,
long wings, and tails of moderate size; the feet are short, the toes
strong, and armed with powerful claws; the beak is long and conical;
both mandibles are rather vaulted, and the upper one terminates in a
slight hook. The plumage, which is soft and gay in its colours, varies
considerably, according to the age or sex of the bird; and, when
destitute of the brilliant gloss by which it is usually distinguished, is
still more varied in its hues. Several of the most interesting species
of this family inhabit Australia, and none of its members are found
beyond the limits of the eastern hemisphere. All may be regarded as
tree-birds, though some few spend a considerable portion of their time
upon the ground, over which they hop with an extremely heavy, awkward
step; amongst the branches, on the contrary, their movements are light
and graceful, and their voice is both full and pleasing in its tones.
Fruit and insects constitute their principal food. During the period of
incubation many species separate entirely from their companions, towards
whom they testify considerable animosity and jealousy; but others remain
in the company of their associates even at that season of the year. The
nests of all are placed upon trees, and are remarkable for the neatness
and beauty of their construction.