ds, &c. as well as a number of choice
shells, seeds, roots, &c. the result of Audubon's researches, have been
received in Charleston.
"In this collection there are between four and five hundred skins of
Birds, several of them rare in this part of the United States--some that
are never found here, and a few that have not yet been described. Of
these are two of the species of Pelican (Pelicanus) not described by
Wilson. The Parrot (psittacus Carolinensis); the palm warbler of
Buonaparte (Silvia palmerea), and the Florida Jay, a beautiful bird
without the crest, so common in that genus.
"Among the new discoveries of Audubon in Florida, we perceive a noble
bird partaking of the appearance both of the Falcon and Vulture tribes,
which would seem to be a connecting link between the two. His habits
too, it is said, partake of his appearance, he being alternately a bird
of prey, and feeding on the same food with the Vultures. This bird
remains yet to be described, and will add not only a new species, but a
new genus to the birds of the United States. We perceive also in Mr.
Audubon's collection, a new species of Coot (Fulica).[9]
[9] Abridged from printed extracts furnished by our
correspondent, M.L.B.
* * * * *
REMARKABLE JAY.
A lady residing at Blackheath has in her possession a fine Jay, which
displays instinct allied to reason and reflection in no ordinary degree.
This bird is stated by a Correspondent, (A.T.) to repeat distinctly any
word that may be uttered before. She can identify persons after having
once seen them, and been told their names; the latter she will pronounce
with surprising clearness. She has a strong affection for a goldfinch in
the same apartment, the latter bird appearing to return this fondness by
fluttering its wings and other demonstrations of delight. The Jay has
also been seen playing with two kittens, while the old cat looked
composedly on at their gambols. This bird is in beautiful plumage, and
is about twenty years of age. She is well known to the residents of
Blackheath and its vicinity.
* * * * *
ENTOMOLOGY.
I have lately observed a curious fact, which I have never seen noticed
in any book which has fallen in my way, viz. that it is the tail of the
caterpillar which becomes the head of the butterfly. I found it hard to
believe till I had convinced myself of it in a number of instances. The
caterpi
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