Birds of SE Borneo - 1859

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PROC. ZOOL. SOC.—1863, NO. XIV.

Pp206-2241

OBSERVATIONS ON THE BIRDS OF SOUTH-EASTERN BORNEO,


BY THE LATE JAMES MOTTLEY2, ESQ., OF BANJERMASSING3;
WITH NOTES BY P. L. SCLATER4, M.A., PH.D., F.R.S.,
SECRETARY TO THE SOCIETY.

My friend Mr. L. L. Dillwyn5 having placed in my hands some MS. notes written by the late Mr.
James Mottley of Banjermassing (who was killed in the Malay insurrection at that place in 18606),
together with the series of bird-skins7 to which the notes refer, I have, with the kind assistance of
Messrs. A. R. Wallace8, J. H. Gurney, and A. Newton, determined the species, and added some few
remarks on their synonymy and geographical distribution.
Mr. Mottley's collection contains specimens of 134 species of Bornean birds. As no connected
list has ever been published of the birds of Borneo, the present may be useful to a certain extent as a
contribution to geographical ornithology, although the series is in many points obviously very
imperfect9.
It may be observed that the greater number of the birds of Borneo, as shown by the present
collection, are common to Sumatra and Malacca. In some instances the Malaccan and Sumatran
species are replaced by representatives sufficiently different to render specific separation possible.
For example, we have in

Borneo. Sumatra and Malacca.


Representing following species in

Megalaema chrysopsis, Megalaema chrysopogon.

Megalorhynchus tanguinolentus, Megalorhynchus hayi.

Meiglyptes badiosus Meiglyptes badius.

Mixornis borneensis, Mixornis sumatrana.

Copsychus suavit, Copsychus macrurus.

Edolius brachypterus, Edolius paradiseus.

Crypsirrhina aterrima, Crypsirrhina leucoptera.

But there are a few species (such as Munia fuscans) which, so far as we know at present, are
unrepresented in the latter countries.
The generic types peculiar to Borneo are very few in number. Galgulus sive Pityriasis
gymnocephalus is perhaps the only very noticeable type peculiar to the island; but as the interior
mountains of Borneo are wholly unexplored, it is not improbable that future explorers may yet find
much that is interesting in the untraversed central regions.

Fam. FALCONIDAE
10
1. FALCO PEREGRINUS, Linn. (Rajah wali)
An exceedingly courageous bird. No prey is too large for him to attack: he is even said to kill young
deer. Rare.
2. HIERAX CAERULESCENS (Linn.). (Alang lulalang—Grasshopper Hawk11.)
Not uncommon here, perpetually on the wing, and living on large insects and small birds. I have
never seen so courageous a bird.
The largest birds (even those twenty times as large as itself) are attacked by it without hesitation,
and generally beaten off by the activity and perseverance of their small enemy. The natives
frequently discover the nest of this Hawk by the parent birds swooping at the heads of those who
approach the tree where it is.
3. HALIASTUR INDUS (Bodd.12). (Alang sapa.)
A very common but exceedingly wary bird, always to be seen sailing about. It feeds on snakes,
lizards, and offal, and appears to be common all over the East.
4. PONTAETUS ICHTHYAETUS (Horsf.). (Taryanng.)
Shot by my hunter.
5. SPILORNIS BIDO (Horsf.13). (Rajah wali-laut.)
Rare, and seen only on the coast. It feeds on fish.
6. ACCIPITER VIRGATUS (Temm.14), Pl . Col. 109.
This small Hawk was much damaged, having been kept long alive with a broken foot. It was bought
from a native.
7. ACCIPITER SOLOENSIS (Horsf.).
Received from the Dyak River.
8. ELANUS HYPOLEUCUS, Gould,15 P.Z.S.16 1859, p. 127; B.Asia17, pt. 12.18 (Rajah wali.)
Shot at Pulo-sari. I saw this bird for several days, while we were there, regularly beating the
padang; but one day I got near him as he sat, gorged, on a dead tree.

Fam. STRIGIDAE
9. KETUPA JAVANICA (Horsf.). (Katatupi.)
Common, though rarely seen: its note is a melancholy sound, often repeated, between a trip and a
shrill whistle.
10. PHODILUS BADIUS (Horsf.). (Punggu.)
This bird was brought to me alive, but refused to eat anything; so I killed and stuffed it. It uttered no
sound while I had it.
11. SCOPS LEMPIJI (Horsf.), juv.
Caught by my servant. I do not know this Owl in the adult state.

Fam. PSITTACIDAE.
12. Palaeornis Longicaudus (Bodd.), Buff.19 Pl.Enl.20 287. (Betet.)
Much more common here than at Labuan, and flying in immense flocks: they are caught with bird-
lime, and sold by hundreds for the table. Their habits are somewhat modified here by the nature of
their food, which is chiefly the fruit of various shrubby Myrtaceae; but they always fly very high
and swiftly, screaming loudly. I have neglected to get a female. She wants the long tail-feathers, and
the colours are more dingy; the red patch under the eye is also very small. This bird breeds in
hollow trees.
13. PALAEORNIS JAVANICUS (Osbeck21). (Baian.)
My hunter procured these birds near Banjermassing: their habits, he states to me, resemble those of
the last species, and they fly in equally large flocks.
14. PSITTINUS MALACCENSIS (Lath.22). (Chaling.)
This little Parrot is much more rare here than the other species. My hunter says he has never
procured it except in the neighbourhood of Banjoenan. It can be taught to speak.
15. LORICULUS GALGULUS (Linn.). (Seringit.)
Very common here, frequenting open grassy places with small scattered trees, in the holes of which
it breeds. Almost every native house here has its little round cage with one or two of these little
birds. They are easily caught with lime-sticks placed round a caged bird, which is hung at the top of
a long pole.

Fam. CUCULIDAE.
16. RHINORTHA CHLOROPHAEA (Raffles).
Often seen, but apparently of very wandering habits, as they are rarely met with two days together
in the same place. They fly in small flocks, and seem generally to be employed searching for
caterpillars upon the leaves of trees. In all I have killed (a large number) the stomachs were filled
with, these insects, and with the bodies of Lepidoptera. The only note I have heard from them is a
quick chirp.
17. PHOENICOPHAUS ERYTHROGNATHUS, Temm.; Bp.23Consp.24 p. 98.
A rather common bird about Martapora in the dry gravelly thickets, concealing itself among the
bushwoods, and when disturbed taking very short flights. Its note is a hoarse chatter, much like that
of a Magpie.
18. ZANCLOSTOMUS SUMATRANUS (Raffl.25), Bp.Consp. p. 99. (Talatak Bahohong.)
Procured by my hunter on the Rium-kiwa River. I know nothing of its habits.
19. ZANCLOSTOMUS TRISTIS (Less.26), Bp.Consp. p. 99.
Procured by my hunter in the marshes near Banjermassing: he says it has a different note from the
last species, and a different flight, and that the natives give it a different name, which, however, he
does not recollect. There appears to be a difference in the nostrils.
20. OXYLOPHUS COROMANDUS (Linn.), Bp.Consp. p. 102.
This species, from the Dyak River, was previously unknown to my hunter.
21. CACOMANTIS SEPULCHRALIS (Mull.27), Bp.Consp. p. 104.
Rare: they haunt open padangs, where they perch on very low bushes.
22. HIEROCOCCYX VARIUS (Vahl28), Moore, P.Z.S. 1859, p. 459. H.fugax, Bp.Consp. p. 104.
(Rangang.)
A common bird, though rarely seen, from its habit of lying as it were on the upper side of a large
branch to utter its monotonous cry. I have repeatedly tried in vain to discover it, when certainly a
dozen must have been crying at once all around me. Its note is a loud but soft flute-like whistle,
repeated three times, and then once again, two notes lower, and is continued for several hours
together in the evening.
23. SURNICULUS LUGUBRIS (Horsf.), Bp.Consp. p. 105. (Jandarrasi hitam.)
Shot near Martapora: they appear to have the habits of our Flycatchers.
24. CHRYSOCOCCYX XANTHORHYNCHUS (Horsf.), Bp.Consp.p. 106. (Behet.)
This bird is apparently rare. The present specimen was full of flies.
25. CHRYSOCOCCYX CHALCITES (Temm.), Temm. Pl Col. 102; Bp.Consp. p. 106.
Small bird, not known to my hunter.
[A young bird, probably referable to this species.—P.L.S.]
26. CENTROPUS PHILIPPENSIS (Cuv.29), Bp.Consp. p. 107.
Here exceedingly common. Its monotonous note "boo-boo," repeated sometimes for hours together,
may be almost constantly heard in wet bushy places; hence the native name Booboot. It is said to
feed very much on the eggs of other birds. Its nest is large and bottle-shaped, built of moss-leaves
and rubbish, and though often placed in conspicuous places, may be easily passed from its
resemblance to a chance mass of leaves.
27. CENTROPUS AFFINIS (Horsf.). Cuculus aIfinis (♂) et C. lepidus ( ♀ ), Horsf. Trans. Linn. Soc. xiii.
p. 180.
This species, the note of which is almost exactly like that of the last, is found very commonly in the
"padangs" or extensive grassy clearings. In flying, it rises only just over the grass, and never
perches in sight, always diving suddenly into some thick tuft or bush. It is often much mobbed by
other small birds. Its nest is bottle- shaped, and placed among grass, of which it is chiefly built,
rarely quite upon the ground. Its Malay name is "Telutok."

Fam. CAPITONIDAE
28. MEGALAEMA VERSICOLOR (Raffl.), Bp.Consp. p. 143. (Tukang Kagu.)
Exceedingly common here; feeds chiefly on insects, but also on the fruit of various species of
Ficus. When these are ripe, several dozen of the birds may often be seen on the trees together. They
breed in holes, which they excavate in the rotten wood of trees.
29. MEGALAEMA CHRYSOPSIS, Goffin, Mus. des Pays-Bas, Buccones, p. 15. (Tokon Tokon mas.)
Rare: procured by my hunter far up the Riam-Kiwa River. [Barely separable from Megalcema
chrysopogon,Temm. — P.L.S.]
30. MEGALAEMA MYSTACOPHANES (Temm.), Pl. Col. 315. (Tokon Tokon Kechel.)
Obtained by my hunter near Martapora.
31. MEGALORHYNCHUS SANGUINOLENTUS (Less.). (Tapeas.)
Rather uncommon. I shot both these specimens in a tall Fig-tree (Ficus) covered with fruit; but I
doubt their feeding on it, as their stomachs were full of insects.
[There seems no doubt that this Bornean bird — the Caloramphus sanguinolentus, Less. (Rev. Zool.
1839, p. 139) — is distinct from the Malaccan M. hagi, although these species have been repeatedly
united. The Malaccan bird never shows the red colour on the throat, which seems constant in
Bornean specimens. — P.L.S.]

Fam. PICIDAE.
30
32. MEIGLYPTES BRUNNEUS (Eyton ), Bp.Consp. p. 113.
In fruit-orchards; not rare.
33. MEIGLYPTES BADIOSUS (Temm.), Bp.Consp. p. 113. (Balatak busuh — Stinking Woodpecker.)
A common bird, rather nocturnal in its habits. When newly killed, it has an abominable smell of
formic acid, doubtless from the nature of its food.
[Mr. Wallace has specimens of this bird obtained at Sarawak. — P.L.S.]
34. TIGA TRIDACTYLA, Gray31: Bp.Consp. p. 120.
Procured at Abulong, on the Banjermassing River. It appears to be a species frequenting the tidal
marshes.
35. VENILIA MALACCENSIS (Lath.). Picus malaccensis, Lath. Ind. Orn. i. p. 241; Venilia miniata, ex
Malacca, auct.
Very common, frequenting small scattered trees in open places.
[These specimens agree with those of Sumatra and Malacca in having the hinder part of the crest
yellow, and the back greenish. In the Javan representative species, Venilia miniata (Picus minia-
tus, Gm. ex Forst.32), the whole crest and the greater part of the back are red. Malherbe figures the
present bird (Picidae, ii. Pl. 76), but calls it wrongly miniata.—P.L.S.]
36. HEMICERCUS COCCOMETOPUS, Reichb.33
Shot at Gunong Pamalong.
[Mr. Wallace's collection contains three forms of this species: 1st, that of Sumatra and Borneo,
which has the rump reddish buff or reddish white, the belly buffy brown, and the crest of the male
tipped with dusky; 2nd, that from Malacca, in which the belly is decidedly olivaceous, the rump
yellowish, but the crest similar to the last; 3rd, that of Java, in which the rump is nearly white, the
crest very ample and wholly red, and the bill snorter. Now Temminck's Picus eoncretus (Pl. Col. 90)
is, as he himself states, the Javan species, and we must therefore call the Javan form Hemicercus
eoncretus. The Malayan bird should bear the name Hemicercus sordidus, having been described by
Mr. Eyton in its immature stages as Dendrocopus sordidus, his paper on the birds of Malacca in the
'Annals of Natural History' for 1845 (vol. xvi. p. 229). The Sumatran and Bornean species seems to
be Reichenbach's Hemicercus coccometopus (Handb. d. Sp. Orn. p. -101). M. Malherbe, in his work
on the Picidae, appears to have only been acquainted with two forms; and his name hartlaubii is
certainly synonymous with sordidus, though his figure (Pl. 61. fig. 5) represents the whole crest as
red.—P.L.S.]
37. HEMILOPHUS JAVENSIS (Horsf.), Moore, Cat.34 p. 652.35 (Balatak kigang.)
This Woodpecker, of which I think I sent the female only from Labuan, is here also a very rare bird.
My man prided himself very much upon getting a pair of them.
38. HEMILOPHUS VALIDUS (Temm.), Pl. Col. 378, 402; Bp.Consp. p. 131.
Killed by my hunter on the Riam-Kiwa River.
39. SASIA ABNORMIS (Temm.), Bp.Consp. p. 140. From the Dyak River; said to frequent low bushes.

Fam. CAPRIMULGIDAE.
40. BATRACHOSTOMUS JAVENSIS (Horsf.). Podargus javensis, Horsf. Zool. Res.36 Pl. 6; Bp.Consp. p. 57.
This strange-looking bird is quite nocturnal in its habits. I have once or twice seen it, evidently
asleep, on a low branch in the low dark thickets about Martapora, and each time with the huge
mouth wide open.
[Mr. Mottley's collection contains two pairs of this bird. The sexes, as has been noted by Bonaparte,
are very different in colouring, the male being minutely freckled with brown and black, and the
female bright rufous. Horsfield's figure represents the female. Mr. Mottley's female specimens agree
with Dr. Horsfield's type. Batrachostomus stellatus (Podargus stellutus, Gould, P.Z.S. 1837, p. 43)
of Malacca is obviously a different species, as I have ascertained by examining the typical examples
in the British Museum. B. auritus, Gould (Icon. Av.37 ii. Pl. 7), is also easily known by its larger
size. B. crinifrons, Temm. (B.psilopterus, G. R. Gray), from Batchian and Gilolo, is likewise a well-
marked species. Whether the other three species given by Cabanis and Heine (Mus. Hein. ii. pp.
123-4) are good or not I cannot say. They have omitted to enumerate in their list Batrachostomus
moniliger of Ceylon.—P.L.S.]
41. CAPRIMULGUS AFFINIS (Horsf.), Moore & Horsf. Cat.38 p. 114.39 (Chabak)
An exceedingly common bird on our bare and long hills, where it breeds. It sits during the day
among the stones, not rising until nearly trodden upon. In the evening some hundreds may be seen
on the wing about my house, sweeping in wide circles, and constantly repeating a shrill chirp,
which may be heard, when there is moonlight, through the night. At this time they often perch on
prominent objects, such as the poles of the fences and the carved pieces of wood with which the
Malays ornament their roofs, but this I have never seen them do in the daytime. The eggs are laid
without nest among the bare stones, and are, as well as the young, like those of our English species;
the mother, too, employs the same arts to tempt intruders away from her treasures.
42. CAPRIMULGUS, sp. ? (Taktan.)
Appears to be rare: my hunter procured this specimen at Pengaron.
[This is a well-marked species of Caprimulgus, with the inner web of the outer tail-feather in the
male terminated by a square white mark. It does not seem to be in the British Museum; but I am
unwilling to add to the confusion already prevalent in this group by describing isolated species.—
P.L.S.]
Fam. CYPSELIDAE.
43. MACROPTERYX KLECHO (Horsf.). (Lanigan.)
Common in the dry season. I believe the Cypselidae are all more or less migratory here.
44. COLLOCALIA NIDIFICA40, G. R. Gray: Moore, Cat. p. 98.

Fam. ALCEDINIDAE.
45. HALCYON LEUCOCEPHALA (Gm.41), Bp.Consp. p. 154. (Bakaka.)
This is one of our commonest Kingfishers, and to be seen everywhere, both in fresh and brackish
water, though I think rarely where the water is truly salt. It perches usually on rather high, exposed
branches, and is wild and not easy to approach, flying off with a loud chatter precisely resembling
its name Bakaka. The Malay races are particularly happy in onomatopoeias of this kind. It is also
called "Rajah udong" (king of the shrimps) — a true King-Stork, I should suppose.
46. HALCYON LILACINA, Bp.Consp. p. 156.
Procured by my hunter at Banjermassing: he says it is rare here.
47. HALCYON COLLARIS (Scop.), Moore, Cat. p. 127. (Bakaka padang.)
Procured on the Dyak River by my hunter, who says that this species particularly frequents the
paddy-fields, and feeds on frogs.
48. CEYX RUFIDORSA42, Strickl.43: Bp.Consp. p. 158. (Bintei.)
Not uncommon, frequenting the small streams in the woods, and making its nest in holes in banks.
Fam. TROGONIDAE
49. HARPACTES DUVAUCELII (Temm.), Gould, Mon.Trog.44 ed.2. pt. 1. (Santalehai.)
Brought by my hunter from the Great Dyak River, where it is said to be abundant: it is a favourite
bird of omen with the Dyaks.
50. HARPACTES KASUMBA (Raffles), Gould, B.Asia, pt. 8.45
From Bangkank, on the Riam Kiwa; one of the principal birds of omen of the Dyaks.

Fam. MEROPIDAE.
51. MEROPS JAVANICUS (Horsf.). (Pink-Pink.)
A very common bird in open places, sailing in circles to hunt the larger Coleoptera and
Hymenoptera. It also makes great havoc among the Dragonflies with which the air is sometimes
filled here. When these birds have seized their prey, they return to their stand, usually a bare high
branch, and there kill it by beating it against the twigs. Great numbers of them may sometimes be
seen together in the evening flying in one direction, uttering the cry which gives their name.
52. MEROPS BADIUS, Gm.
Uncommon: my specimens were brought by my hunter from Bangkank, on the Riam Kiwa River.
53. NYCTIORNIS AMICTA (Temm.).
This bird is rather common at Gunong Tabok, on the Riam Kanan River, but I suppose rare
elsewhere. My hunter says it is not known far in the interior. Its note is something between the
croak of a frog and the "churr" of a Fern-Owl, often repeated, and sustained perhaps half a minute.

Fam. CORACIIDAE.
54. EURYSTOMUS ORIENTALIS (Linn.).
A rare bird here.

Fam. BUCEROTIDAE.
55. HYDROCISSA GALERITA, Temm.
Rare on the coast, but a common bird far in the interior. In both Borneo and Sumatra it may be seen
perched, in the early morning, on the summits of the tallest trees; and its loud hoarse cry, like a
coarse, rude laugh, makes the wood echo in every direction. This is a sacred bird with the Dyaks,
who ornament their war-dresses and helmets with the beak and long tail-feathers; the large wide
quills are almost universally used for holding gold-dust and small diamonds.

Fam. EURYLAEMIDAE.
56. CORYDON SUMATRANUS (Raffl.). (Tiong Pujong.)
Shot by my hunter.
[These specimens have the concealed dorsal spot red. In Mr. Wallace's Malaccan examples it is
orange.—P.L.S.]
57. CYMBIRHYNCHUS MACRORHYNCHUS (Gm.). (Pandei-Pandei.)
Here a common bird, almost always to be seen about fruit-orchards and similar places, often in
flocks of five or six: it feeds apparently on insects. In fresh specimens the beak is bright blue.
58. CALYPTOMENA VIRIDIS, Raffl. (Tantewy.)

Shot by my hunter on the Dyak River.

Fam. ALAUDIDAE.
59. MIRAFRA JAVANICA (Horsf.).
This bird has much the habits of our common Sky-Lark.

Fam. MOTACILLIDAE.
60. BUDYTES VIRIDIS (Scop.). (Pranjak.)
Very common among grass, associating in small flocks, and hunting insects with a short jumping
flight.

Fam. TIMALIIDAE.
61. TIMALIA MACULATA, Temm. Pl. Col. 593. fig. 1.
Brought from the Dyak by my hunter.
62. TIMALIA NIGRICOLLIS, Temm. Pl. Col. 594. fig. 2.
Shot by my hunter at Banjermassing.
63. TIMALIA, sp. ? (Sikotan gunong.)
Shot by the hunter on the Riam Kanau.
[Allied to T. erythroptera, Blyth, of Malacca, but differs, according to Mr. Wallace, who has kindly
compared it, in having the back rusty red, of the same colour as the wings, and a much darker head.
—P.L.S.]
64. MIXORNIS BORNEENSIS, Bp.Consp. p. 217.
Shot by my hunter at Banjermassing.
65. MACRONUS PTILOSUS, Jard. & Selb. (Burong chamara.)
Not uncommon, according to my hunter; but I have not seen it alive.
66. TRICHOSTOMA UMBRATILE, Strickland, Contr. To Orn.46 1849, p. 126, Pl. 35.47 (Kruang taush.)
My hunter says this bird is common, though I have never seen it; he says it never flies above the
grass.
[Mr. Wallace notes this species as being very close to T. abbottii, Blyth, from which it only differs
in more rufous wings and flanks, and less greyish white on the lores. — P.L.S.]

Fam. PITTIDAE
67. PITTA SCHWANERI, Temm.: Bp.Consp. p. 256.
Rare, but generally distributed in dry woody places. Like P. mulleri, it rarely perches upon trees.
68. PITTA MUELLERI, Bp.Consp. p. 256.
Rather rare: haunts bushy places.
[A young bird of this species in Mr. Mottley's collection has the tips of the wing-covers white, as in
Elliot's Pitta leucoptera. I have little doubt that the latter (described in Proc. Acad. Sc. Phil. 1861, p.
153, and figured in the 'Monograph,' pl. 25) is the young of Pitta philippensis.—P.L.S.]

Fam. MEGALURIDAE.
69. ORTHOTOMUS CINERACEUS, Blyth: Moore's Cat. p. 315.
A very common bird among grass, over the tops of which it flies with a quick jerking flight, often
throwing up the tail.
[Compared by Mr. Wallace with specimens in the E. I. M. — P.L.S.] .
70. PRINIA ? (Chunuk betul.)
A common little bird in the long grass; it flies with a peculiar jerking flight, like a Grasshopper.
[A species not in the E.I.M.—P.L.S.]

Fam. PYCNONOTIDAE.
71. PYCNONOTUS ANALIS (Horsf.). Ixos analis, Bp.Consp. p. 265.
Shot by my hunter near Martapora.
[This bird is often called P. goiavier (Scop.48). But Sonnini's figure, on which Scopoli's name is
based, represents a bird from Manilla, which is probably of a different species. I therefore prefer to
use Horsfield's name analis for this bird.—P.L.S.]
72. CRINIGER GUTTURALIS, Bp.Consp. p. 262.

Fam. TURDIDAE.
73. COPSYCHUS AMOENUS, Horsf.: Moore's Cat. p. 279. C.pluto, Temm. (Tingon.)
An exceedingly common bird here, and apparently all over the Archipelago. It frequents the
neighbourhood of houses more than most of the native birds; and its song is very sweet, something
like part of that of a Blackbird. It is a very lively and active bird, and very conspicuous as it sits on
the top of a stump to sing, perpetually jerking up its tail like a Magpie, to which in miniature it
bears a considerable resemblance. The nest is of grass, and is placed in a fork or hole of a tree; the
eggs are five or six, and resemble those of our Yellowhammer (Emberiza citriuella).
[Mr. Wallace tells me that Bornean and Javan specimens of this bird agree; so that C. pluto, the fifth
species in my list of this genus (given P.Z.S. 1861, p. 186), must be united to the fourth.— P.L.S.]
74. COPSYCHUS SUAVIS, Sclater, P.Z.S. 1861, p. 185. (Tingon.)
A much wilder species than the last, and more rarely seen, though nearly as common.

Fam. ORIOLIDAE.
75. ORIOLUS XANTHONOTUS, Horsf.
A rare bird, and oftener heard than seen, as it sits usually in a thick dark tree, repeating at short
intervals a low melancholy whistle. I have several times tried in vain to see this bird, when perfectly
sure, from its constantly repeated cry, that it was in the tree I was examining, and have only induced
it to take flight by firing at random among the branches. One of the specimens sent was, oddly
enough, killed in this way, without being aimed at or seen.
Fam. ARTAMIDAE.
76. ARTAMUS LEUCOGASTER, Val.49: Bp.Consp. p. 343. (Alang-kechil.)
This bird was sent in my former collection from Labuan, where it was common; here I have seen it
only once.

Fam. HIRUNDINIDAE.
77. HIRUNDO DOMICOLA, Jerdon, Madras Journ. xiii. p. 173.
Brought by my hunter from the Dyak.
78. HIRUNDO RUSTICA (Linn.). (H. gutturalis, Scop.)
[Mr. Blyth considers this Eastern variety of the Common Swallow hardly separable from the
European bird, though many authors have assigned it a different name. See Cat. Mus. As. Soc.
Beng. p. 197, and Jerdon, Birds of India, p. 157.—P.L.S.]
79. RHIPIDURA JAVANICA (Sparm.50), Horsf. & Moore, Cat. p. 144.
Shot near Banjoenan.
80. TCHITREA AFFINIS, A. Hay: Horsf. & Moore, Cat. p. 134. (Tabulu.)
A rare bird here, but very conspicuous from its long tail and slow flight. It associates in small
parties of five or six, and frequents low open woods. Its feathers are much valued by the Dyaks.

Fam. LANIIDAE.
81. TEPHRODORNIS HIRUNDINACEA, Temm.: Bp.Consp. p. 357.
Found here and there in the low woods, associating in pairs, hut not a common bird.
82. PACHYCEPHALA GRISOLA (Blyth). Tephrodornis grisola, Blyth, J.A.S.B.51 xii. p. 180; Jerdon, B.Ind.
i. p. 411.
Rather uncommon: has a sweet simple song, something like that of the Redbreast (Erithacvs
rubecula).
[I suspect this is Hyloterpephilomela, Cab. (Mus. Hein. i. p. 64); but, as far as I can make out, that
bird has never been described. A bird is mentioned as Hylocharis luscinia in S. Müller's article on
his Sumatran discoveries, in the Tijdschrift v. Nat. Geschied. 1835, p. 331; but no description of it is
given.—P.L.S.]
83. IRENA PUELLA (Lath.), Bp.Consp. p. 349. (Burong Birn52 —Bluebird.)
The birds are common enough here, though not very often seen, except when the wild fruit is ripe,
when they collect in great numbers. Their favourite food appears to be a species of Syzygium: when
feeding on this, they are very fat, and are caught in great numbers, for eating, with bird-lime.
84. EDOLIUS BRACHYPHORUS, Temm.: Bp.Consp. p. 351. (Damak-Damak, from a fancied resemblance
in the long tail-feathers to the little arrows blown from the Sumpitan, which are so named.)
This bird is not uncommon here, and I have seen it also in the north of Borneo, its peculiar jerking
flight, like that of a Woodpecker, and its long tail-feathers making it very conspicuous. These birds
feed on insects, and, my hunter says, sometimes on small birds. They are the bravest birds I have
ever seen: one of them does not hesitate to attack the largest Hawk that ventures near its stand, and
usually succeeds in driving off the intruder by repeated blows on the bead with his strong beak.
85. CHAPTIA MALAYENSIS, A. Hay: Bp.Consp. p. 350. (Tangkaschang.)
Apparently rare: one specimen that I shot was being mobbed by smaller birds.
86. GRAUCALUS FASCIATUS, Vieill.53: Bp.Consp. p. 354.
87. VOLVOCIVORA FIMBRIATA, Temm.: Bp.Consp. p. 356.

Fam. CORVIDAE.
88. CRYPSIRHINA ATERRIMA, Temm.: Bp.Consp. p. 369. (Tiung hautu.)
Not uncommon in the deep woods, but rarely seen near houses. These are very active and lively
birds, but exceedingly wild and difficult to approach; their note is a kind of hoarse whistle often
repeated.
89. CORVUS VALIDUS, Temm.: Bp.Consp. p. 385. (Kak.)
Exceedingly wild, and rarely seen near houses. These Crows fly usually in flocks of from three to
six individuals, and are very noisy on the wing. Their cry is exactly that of our Common Rook (C.
frugilegus), and gives me a home-feeling every time I hear it; but their flight more nearly resembles
that of the Common Crow (C. corone). The stomachs of those I have killed were full of insects and
fruit; but one, which had, as I afterwards found, a nest with young ones close by, was carrying in its
beak a piece of stinking fish. The nest was in a tall tree built of sticks and grass, and contained four
young ones. When taken young from the nest, these birds become very tame; but are most
mischievous, tearing into small pieces everything they can get hold of.

Fam. STURNIDAE.
90. CALORNIS CANTOR, Gm.
I have nothing to add to my former remarks on this bird. It is not so abundant here as at Labuan: it
seems to frequent hollow trees almost exclusively.
91. GRACULA JAVANENSIS (Osbeck), Bp.Consp. p. 422.
Very common here, as in Labuan.

Fam. FRINGILLIDAE.
92. MUNIA ORYZIVORA (Linn.).
Rather common here, and exceedingly destructive to the rice-fields, feeding on them in vast flocks.
These birds are taken in thousands by the natives, and are a favourite article of food, being
exceedingly fat. In confinement they become very familiar, and breed readily. I have a great number
of them; and many which have escaped do not leave the house, but are constantly on the outside of
the cage which formerly held them.
93. MUNIA MALACCA (Linn.).
94. MUNIA FUSCANS, Cassin54.
Spermestes fuscans, Cassin, Pr. Acad. Phil. vi. p. 85, et Journ. Acad. Phil. iii. p. 69, Pl. 8. fig. 3.
Common here, though less so than the last species. Its habits are the same; but its nest is commonly
placed in hollow trees.
[Mr. Wallace has similarly-coloured specimens of both sexes of this little Finch in his collection
from Sarawak.—P.L.S.]

Fam. MELLIPHAGIDAE.
95. PHYLLORNIS JAVENSIS (Horsf.), Horsf. & Moore, Cat. p.260.
Not very uncommon here, and almost always to be found where any of the Loranthaceae are in
fruit.
96. IORA VIRIDISSIMA (Temm.).
Procured by my hunter (who said the note and flight attracted his attention, and that the species was
new to him) at the foot of the Goenong Gurgaji Mountain.
97. ZOSTEROPS , sp. ?
Burong barat, "west bird," only seen here during the west monsoon; it frequents especially the
flowers of the Lausat 55(Lausium domesticum).
[This Zosterops is closely allied to Z. flava of Java, but is distinguishable by its brighter colouring
above and below, the lores being yellow instead of black, and the wing- and tail-feathers within
being brown and not black. It is of the same size as Z, flava, and therefore can hardly be Z. montana
of Sumatra, which is stated by Bonaparte to be "similu Z. flavae, sed paullo major."—P.L.S.]

Fam. NECTARINIIDAE.
98. DICAEUM CRUENTATUM (Linn.), Bp.Consp. p. 402.
Rather common in some localities. The nest of this very lively and pugnacious little bird is a most
beautiful fabric, made with an opening in the side, and suspended from a twig, being built chiefly of
lichens and spiders' webs.
99. DICAEUM TRIGONOSTYGMA (Scop.), Bp.Consp. p. 403.
Shot by my hunter.
100. NECTARINIA MACKLOTII, Bp.Consp. p. 408.
101. NECTARINIA HASSELTII, Temm.: Bp.Consp. p. 409.
My hunter says, this is the only specimen he has seen here of this bird.
102. NECTARINIA SIPARAJA (Raffl.), Bp.Consp. p. 405.
Common among mangroves.
[Mr. Wallace says, "perhaps distinct from N. siparaja, the tail being rather more elongated."—
P.L.S.]
103. NECTARINIA PECTORALIS (Horsf.), Bp.Consp. p. 408.
Found also in Labuan; here it frequents chiefly the flowers of the Laban (Vitex tomentosa).
104. NECTARINIA PHOENICOTIS (Temm.), Bp.Consp. p. 408.
105. ANTHREPTES LEPIDA (Lath.), Bp.Consp. p. 409.
Apparently not rare. These little Nectariniae are all called by one native name, have the same
restless habits as the Labuan species, and are always to be found where there are flowers. They
feed, however, also on small insects.
106. ARACHNOTHERA LONGIROSTRIS (Lath.), Bp.Consp. p.409. (Chewit tandok.)
Common in a small wood near my house, amongst the bamboos: I have rarely seen it elsewhere.
Fam. COLUMBIDAE.
107. TRERON NIPALENSIS, Hodgs.56 (Punei dakan.)
A very common Pigeon; perhaps the most so of all our species. It has the same habits as the other
kinds.
108. TRERON VERNANS (Gm.), Bp.Consp. ii. p. 12. (Punei daduk.)
Very abundant: of the same solitary and fruit-eating habits as all our Pigeons, but remarkable for
frequently perching on the ground.
109. TRERON FULVICOLLIS (Wagl.), Bp.Consp. ii. p. 14.
110. TRERON OLAX (Temm.), Pl. Col. 241; Gray, List of Columbae, p. 11. (Punei kechil.)
In habits like the larger species, but far more rare.
111. TRERON CAPELLII (Temm.), Pl. Col. 143. (Bakwak.)
Of the same habits as Carpophaga cenea, hut much more uncommon.
112. PTILONOPUS JAMBU (Gm.), Bp.Consp. p. 17. (Punei chitrah.)
Here very plentiful; but said to be rare, except just in this immediate neighbourhood. My hunter,
though in his business here for twelve or fourteen years, had never seen it before. It feeds on fruit,
especially on that of the different species of Ficus.
113. CARPOPHAGA AENEA (Linn.), Bp.Consp. ii. p. 32. (Pragam.)
One of the commonest of our Pigeons, flying often in large flocks, and very destructive to the fruit-
orchards. Its note is something between the ordinary coo of a tame Pigeon and the groan of a person
in pain. Its flight is exceedingly strong and rapid. It is the best of all our wild birds for the table, and
so falls a frequent victim to my hunter, who tries by that means to stand high in Mrs. Mottley's good
books. Though so large and strong a bird, it is easily brought down with small shot.
114. TURTUR TIGRINUS (Temm.). Columba tigrina, Temm. Pig.57 Pl. 43.
A very common bird here, frequenting padangs with scattered trees, and not associating, like most
of our Pigeons, in flocks. Its note is exactly that of the European Turtledove. The natives are very
fond of keeping them in cages. The nest is a mere platform, hardly concealed, and contains two
white eggs.

Fam. TETRAONIDAE.
115. COTURNIX CHINENSIS (Linn.), Blyth, Cat. p. 255. Synoecus sinensis. (Pipitkan.)
An exceedingly common bird in grassy places, where its note (of which its vernacular name is a
perfect onomatopoeia) may be constantly heard. In their habits these birds are perfect Partridges in
miniature, associating in coveys, and rising all at once with the same kind of flight. They readily
live and breed in confinement; but it is necessary to give them a very high cage, or to put a ceiling
of cloth; otherwise, from their habit of constantly leaping up, they beat their heads bare to the bone.
Their eggs are very large for the size of the bird, and are marked like those of our waterhen: the
young, small as they are, run as soon as they are hatched. After having been once flushed, these
Quails fly a short distance and are difficult to raise again, running with great rapidity among the
grass. I have now about twenty of them in a large cage with upwards of a hundred other birds of
various species; and they have become very tame, running among the fresh turf, with which they are
supplied, like little mice.
Fam. PHASIANIDAE

116 ARGUS GIGANTEUS (Temm.).


The Argus Pheasant called from its note, “Kuan” in most Malay countries is a bird of the most
sequestered forest country and is rarely seen though often heard in the night. I had this specimen
alive, but it lived only a short time; it was caught in a noose.

Fam CHARADRIIDAE

117 AEGIALITIS GEOFFROYII (Wagl.).


From Tabanio
[This appears to be the larger of the two species distinguished by Blyth, J.A.S.B. Xii. p. 181.
P.L.S. ]

118 AEGIALITIS PHILIPPINUS (Scop.).


Procured by my hunter on the sea shore at Tabanio a little to the south.

119 CHARADRIUS LONGIPES, Temm. (Sintar.)


This Plover is a very common bird here flying in large flocks and especially frequenting the bare
muddy places where buffaloes are in the habit of bathing. They are difficult to approach except in a
high wind when they are very tame and a large number may be shot at once as they rise. When
disturbed they usually perch on some bare stony spot and by knowing this place and walking to and
fro between it and their feeding ground whither they return when again flushed I have often made a
good bag. They are excellent eating and form a great item in our game lists here.

Fam SCOLOPACIDAE

120 TOTANUS HORSFIELDI, Sykes.


From the sea shore at Tabanio.
[Determined by Mr .A. Newton as were also the two following species. --- P.L.S.]

121 TOTANUS AFFINIS, Horsfield (Junggit-batang)


A truly freshwater species frequenting rivers and perching on the “batangs” or large logs of drift
timber, whence its name.. These birds are frequently seen in small packs, probably families, and fly
close under the banks of the river with a jerking uneasy flight.

122 TRINGOIDES HYPOLEUCUS, (Linn.). (Junggit-junggit)


I cannot refer this precisely to any of the species which I sent from Labuan.

Fam ARDEIDAE

123 ARDEA PURPUREA (Linn.) (Balakokan.)


Here a very common bird in marshy places its habits when feeding are exactly like those of our
English A.cinerea. When gorged with food it is very stupid and allows a very near approach and
being very good to eat as I can testify great numbers are killed. It usually perches on a low tree or
tuft of reeds or often on a tall dead tree. In the evening they may often be seen flying at a great
height and in a steady straight course as if bound for a long journey. The note is a deep harsh croak.
The nests are either solitary or at most two or three together and are built a few feet from the surface
of the water among tall reeds in almost inaccessible marshes. They are mere flat platforms of sticks
the eggs are light green about the size of those of a goose and three in number.

124 HERODIAS GREYI Gould B.Austr.58 vi Pl 61


In fresh water swamps near Martapora generally seen perching on the tops of the reeds.

125 BUTORIDES JAVANICUS (Horsf.) Bp.Consp.ii p 130


I suppose this bird derives its name which means “shell bird,” from its food as my hunter tells me
the stomach is always full of broken shells.

126 ARDETTA CINNAMOMEA (Gm.) (Bangan sambilan-kechil.)


Procured by my hunter in the marshes near Banjermassing.

127 NYCTICORAX GRISEUS (Linn.) Bp.Consp. ii. p. 140.


Shot by my hunter at Banjermassing.

Fam RALLIDAE

128 GALLICREX CRISTATA (Lath.) Blyth, Cat p. 283.


Found here and there in marshy places flies like a Land Rail when flushed.

129 RALLUS GULARIS, Horsf. Linn.Trans xiii p 196 (Burok-Burok Peai)


Peai is the name of the Acrostichum inaequale which grows in the marshes which this bird haunts.
This bird is very common here it rarely or ever flies more than two or three yards at a time and so is
not often seen but in the evening its note resembling the loud croak of a frog is heard in all
directions in wet places.

130 PORZANA PHOENICURA (Penn.59). Blyth Cat p 284 (Burok-burok)


Not uncommon here but difficult to procure. I have never seen it fly.

131 PORZANA ---?


Sim P phoenicurae sed minor et front e albo carens60
Long tota a 8.0 alae 5.0 tarsi 1.9 poll Angl

Fam ANATIDAE

132 DENDROCYGNA ARCUATA (Cuv.).


This small Duck is very common here on the marshes. They are very wild and difficult to shoot but
excellent eating. Taken young they become very tame and breed in confinement freely associating
with other poultry but they are excessively pugnacious and tyrannize even over the geese.

Fam LARIDAE

133 GELOCHELIDON ANGLICA (Mont.61). (Simbangan)


Of course a sea bird though shot in a freshwater marsh where I had observed it some days flying
over the water like a Swallow.

134 STERNULA MINUTA (Linn.).


Procured in the same place.
Updated nomenclature and specimen locations.

A substantial proportion of the names have changed, often with several synonyms, and at both
generic and specific levels, between Sclater's original identification and current usage (here, as in
Phillipps' Field Guide to the Birds of Borneo, 2009). However, almost all the species can be traced,
especially with the help of the Catalogues of Birds in the British Museum volumes published in 27
volumes between 1874 and 1898. Many of these give the reference to Sclater's 1863 paper against
specimens in, or known to, the museum, and show Motley (or Mottley) as the collector; several
specimens which Sclater left generic can thus be identified. In addition, the type specimens were
catalogued in 3 volumes between 1966 and 1973. The Natural History Museum's ornithology
section at Tring is only known to hold two of the specimens now, but the World Museum in
Liverpool can confirm that it has 68, covering 50 species, derived from its purchase, in 1895, of the
H.B.Tristram (1822-1906) collection, substantially matching the Catalogue from 1889.

An x marks one or more currently catalogued specimens; a number gives the BM catalogue volume
where a reference to one or more specimens is given (but not the accession reference); H and S
indicate holotype and syntype specimens.
Original name B LM English name Revised name
M
Falconidae 1 falcons
1. Falco peregrinus Peregrine falcon
2. Hierax caerulescens x Black-thighed falconet Microhierax fringillarius
kite, eagles, hawks Accipitridae
3. Haliastur indus Brahminy kite
4 Pontaetus ichthyaetus Grey-headed fish eagle Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus
5. Spilornis bido Crested serpent eagle Spilornis cheela
6. Accipiter virgatus Besra
7. Accipiter soloensis Chinese goshawk
8. Elanus hypoleucus Black-winged kite Elanus caeruleus
Strigidae 2 owls
9. Ketupa javanica ? Buffy fish owl Ketupa ketupu
10. Phodilus badius ? Oriental bay owl
11. Scops lempiji ? x Collared scops owl Otus bakkamoena
Psittacidae 20 cockatoos and parrots
12. Palaeornis longicaudus ? x Blossom-headed/Long- Psittacula longicauda
tailed parakeet
13. Palaeornis Javanicus ? x Red-breasted parakeet Psittacula alexandri
14. Psittinus Malaccensis ? x Blue-rumped parakeet Psittinus cyanurus
15. Loriculus galgulus ? Blue-crowned hanging
parrot [Sapphire Crowned
Parrot]
Cuculidae 19 cuckoos
16. Rhinortha chlorophaea ? x Raffles's malkoha Phaenicophaeus chlorophaeus
17. Phoenicophaus erythrognathus ? x Chestnut-breasted malkoha Phaenicophaeus curvirostris
microrhinus
18. Zanclostomus sumatranus ? x Chestnut/rufous-bellied Phaenicophaeus sumatranus
malkoha
19. Zanclostomus tristis ? Green-billed malkoha Phaenicophaeus tristis
20. Oxylophus coromandus ? Chestnut-winged cuckoo Clamator coromandus
21. Cacomantis sepulchralis ? Plaintive cuckoo
22. Hierococcyx varius ? Javan hawk-cuckoo
23. Surniculus lugubris ? x Square-tailed drongo-
cuckoo
24. Chrysococcyx xanthorhynchus ? Violet cuckoo
25. Chrysococcyx chalcites ? Little bronze cuckoo Chrysococcyx minutillus
26. Centropus philippensis ? x Greater coucal Centropus sinensis
27. Centropus affinis ? x Lesser coucal Centropus bengalensis
Capitonidae 19 barbets Megalaimidae
28. Megalaema versicolor ? Red-crowned/many- Megalaima rafflesii
coloured barbet
29. Megalaema chrysopsis ? Gold-whiskered barbet Megalaima chrysopogon
30. Megalaema mystacophanes ? Red-throated/gaudy barbet Megalaima mystacophanos
31. Megalorhynchus anguinolentus ? Brown barbet Calorhamphus fuliginosus
Picidae 18 woodpeckers
32. Meiglyptes brunneus ? x Buff-necked woodpecker Meiglyptes tukki
33. Meiglyptes badiosus ? x Rufous woodpecker Celeus brachyurus
34. Tiga tridactyla ? x Common goldenback Dinopium javanense
35. Venilia Malaccensis ? x Banded woodpecker Picus miniaceus
36. Hemicercus coccometopus ? x Grey-and-buff woodpecker Hemicircus concretus
37. Hemilophus Javensis ? White-bellied woodpecker Dryocopus javensis
38. Hemilophus validus ? x Orange-backed woodpecker Reinwardtipicus validus
39. Sasia abnormis ? Rufous piculet
Caprimulgidae (and Podargidae) 16 nightjars anf frogmouths
40. Batrachostomus Javensis ? Horsfield's/Javan frogmouth
41. Caprimulgus affinis ? x Savanna nightjar
42. Caprimulgus, sp. ?S Bonaparte's/Sunda nightjar Caprimulgus concretus
Cypselidae 16 treeswifts and swifts Hemiprocnidae and Apodidae
43. Macropteryx klecho ? Grey-rumped treeswift Hemiprocne longipennis
44. Collocalia nidifica ?H Asian palm swift Cypsiurus balasiensis
Alcedinidae 17 kingfishers
45. Halcyon leucocephala ? Stork-billed kingfisher Pelargopsis capensis
46. Halcyon lilacina ? Ruddy kingfisher Halcyon coromanda
47. Halcyon collaris ? Collared kingfisher Todiramphus collaris
48. Ceyx rufidorsa ? Oriental dwarf kingfisher
Trogonidae 17 trogons
49. Harpactes Duvaucelii ? x Scarlet-rumped trogon Harpactes duvaucelii
50. Harpactes kasumba ? Red-naped trogon
Meropidae 17 bee-eaters
51. Merops Javanicus ? Blue-tailed bee-eater Merops philippinus
52. Merops badius x Blue-throated bee-eater Merops viridis
53. Nyctiornis amicta ? Red-bearded bee-eater Nyctyornis amictus
Coraciidae 17 rollers
54. Eurystomus orientalis ? x Dollarbird
Bucerotidae 17 hornbills
55. Hydrocissa galerita ? x Bushy-crested hornbill Anorrhinus galeritus
Eurylaemidae 14 broadbills Eurylaimidae
56. Corydon sumatranus ? x Dusky broadbill
57. Cymbirhynchus macrorhynchus ? x Black-and-red broadbill Cymbirhynchus macrorhynchos
58. Calyptomena viridis ? x Green broadbill
Alaudidae 13 larks
59. Mirafra Javanica ?H Horsfield's bushlark Mirafra javanica
Motacillidae 10 wagtails
60. Budytes viridis ? Yellow wagtail Motacilla flava
Timaliidae 7 babblers
61. Timalia maculata ? Chestnut-rumped babbler Stachyris maculata
62. Timalia nigricollis ? Black-throated babbler Stachyris nigricollis
63. Timalia, sp. ? Ferruginous babbler Trichastoma bicolor
64. Mixornis borneensis ? Bold-striped tit-babbler Macronous bornensis
65. Macronus ptilosus ? Fluffy-backed tit-babbler Macronous ptilosus
66. Trichostoma umbratile ? Abbott's babbler Trichastoma abbotti
Pittidae 14 pittas
67. Pitta schwaneri ? Banded pitta Pitta guajana schwaneri
68. Pitta muelleri ? x Hooded pitta Pitta sordida muelleri
Megaluridae 7 tailorbirds
69. Orthotomus cineraceus ? Red-headed/ashy tailorbird Orthotomus ruficeps
70. Prinia ? ? ?Yellow-bellied wren- ?Prinia flaviventris
babbler/prinia
Pycnonotidae 6 bulbuls
71. Pycnonotus analis ? Yellow-vented bulbul Pycnonotus goiavier
72. Criniger gutturalis ? Grey-cheeked bulbul Criniger bres gutturalis
Turdidae 7 thrushes
73. Copsychus amoenus ? Oriental magpie robin Copsychus saularis pluto
74. Copsychus suavis xS White-rumped shama Copsychus malabaricus
Oriolidae 3 orioles
75. Oriolus xanthonotus ? x Dark-throated oriole
Artamidae 13 woodswallows
76. Artamus leucogaster ? x White-rumped/breasted Artamus leucorhynchus
woodswallow
Hirundinidae 10 swallows and martins
77. Hirundo domicola ? x Pacific swallow Hirundo tahitica
78. Hirundo rustica ? x Barn swallow
4 fantails Rhipiduridae
79. Rhipidura Javanica ? x Pied fantail Rhipidura javanica
paradise flycatchers Monarchidae
80. Tchitrea affinis ? x Asian paradise flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi borneensis
Laniidae 3 shrikes
81. Tephrodornis hirundinacea ? Black-winged flycatcher- Hemipus hirundinaceus
shrike
82. Pachycephala grisola ? Mangrove whistler
83. Irena puella ? x Asian fairy-bluebird
84. Edolius brachyphorus ? Greater raquet-tailed drongo Dicrurus paradiseus
85. Chaptia Malayensis ? Bronzed drongo Dicrurus aeneus
86. Graucalus fasciatus ? Bar-bellied cuckoo-shrike Coracina striata
87. Volvocivora fimbriata ? Lesser cuckoo-shrike Coracina fimbriata
88. Crypsirhina aterrima ? Black magpie Platysmurus leucopterus aterrimus
89. Corvus validus ? x Slender-billed crow Corvus enca
Sturnidae 13 starlings
90. Calornis cantor ? ?Philippine/Asian glossy Aplonis panayensis
starling
91. Gracula Javanensis ? Hill myna Gracula religiosa
Fringillidae 13 finches
92. Munia oryzivora ? Java sparrow Padda oryzivora
93. Munia Malacca ? Chestnut/black-headed Lonchura atricapilla
munia
94. Munia fuscans ? Dusky munia Lonchura fuscans
Melliphagidae honey-eaters
6 leafbirds Chloropseidae
95. Phyllornis Javensis ? x Greater green leafbird Chloropsis sonnerati
ioras Aegithinidae
96. Iora viridissima ? Green iora Aegithina viridissima
9 white-eyes Zosteropidae
97. Zosterops , sp. ? Javan white-eye Zosterops flavus
Nectariniidae 10 flowerpeckers Dicaeidae
98. Dicaeum cruentatum ? Scarlet-backed flowerpecker
99. Dicaeum trigonostygma ? Orange-bellied flowerpecker Dicaeum trigonostigma
Nectariniidae 9 sunbirds and spiderhunters
100. Nectarinia Macklotii ? Copper-throated sunbird Nectarinia calcostetha
101. Nectarinia Hasseltii ? Purple-throated sunbird Nectarinia sperata
102. Nectarinia siparaja ? Eastern crimson/yellow- Aethopyga siparaja
backed sunbird
103. Nectarinia pectoralis ? Olive-backed/yellow- Nectarinia jugularis
breasted sunbird
104. Nectarinia phoenicotis ? Ruby-cheeked sunbird Chalcoparia singalensis
/Rubycheek
105. Anthreptes lepida ? Brown-throated sunbird Anthreptes malacensis
106. Arachnothera longirostris ? Little spiderhunter Arachnothera longirostra
Columbidae 21 doves and pigeons
107. Treron nipalensis ? x Thick-billed green pigeon Treron curvirostra
108. Treron vernans ? Pink-necked green pigeon
109. Treron fulvicollis ? Cinnamon-headed green
pigeon
110. Treron olax ? Little green pigeon
111. Treron capellii ? x Large green pigeon Treron capellei
112. Ptilonopus jambu ? x Jambu fruit dove Pttilinopus jambu
113. Carpophaga aenea ? x Green imperial pigeon Ducula aenea
114. Turtur tigrinus ? x Spotted-necked dove Streptopelia chinensis
Tetraonidae 22 grouse
115. Coturnix Chinensis ? Blue-breasted quail Coturnix chinensis
Phasianidae 22 pheasants
116 Argus giganteus ? Great argus pheasant Argusianus argus
Charadriidae 24 plovers
117 Aegialitis Geoffroyii ? Greater sand plover Charadrius leschenaultii
118 Aegialitis Philippinus ? Little ringed plover/dotterel Charadrius dubius curonicus
119 Charadrius longipes ? Pacific golden/spotted Pluvialis fulva
plover
Scolopacidae 24 sandpipers
120 Totanus Horsfieldi ? Marsh sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis
121 Totanus affinis ? Wood sandpiper Tringa glareola
122 Tringoides hypoleucus ? Common sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos
Ardeidae 26 herons, bitterns, and egrets
123 Ardea purpurea ? Purple heron
124 Herodias Greyi ? Pacific reef heron/egret Egretta sacra
125 Butorides Javanicus ? Striated/little heron Butorides striata
126 Ardetta cinnamomea ? x Cinnamon bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus
127 Nycticorax griseus ? Black-crowned night heron Nycticorax nycticorax
Rallidae 23 rails, waterhens, coots
128 Gallicrex cristata ? Watercock Gallicrex cinerea
129 Rallus gularis ? Slaty-breasted rail Gallirallus striatus
130 Porzana phoenicura ? White-brasted waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus
131 Porzana ---? Red-tailed gallicule
Anatidae 27 ducks, geese and swans
132 Dendrocygna arcuata ? Wandering whistling duck
Laridae 25 gulls and terns
133 Gelochelidon anglica ? Gull-billed tern Sterna nilotica
134 Sternula minuta ? Little tern Sterna albifrons

As 130 and 131 were subsequently both assigned to the same species, the count of species reported
in this paper reduces to 133.

However, the BM catalogues also show this, unreported, species attributed to Motley in SE Borneo
directly:

Miglyptes grammithorax ? Buff-rumped Meiglyptes tristis


woodpecker

and the Liverpool Museum has these addition species (as well as Copsychus stricklandii - White-
crowned shama - which is from NW Borneo, as first described in Motley & Dillwyn, 1855.

Phaenicophaeus diardi borneensis * Black-bellied malkoha Phaenicophaeus diardi


Megalaima australis duvaucelii x Blue-eared barbet Megalaima australis
Mulleripicus pulverulentus x Great Slaty
Woodpecker

* The Tristram catalogue appears to have this as Rhopodytes elongatus

So it appears that Motley collected at least 137 different species of birds in the 4 years he was in SE Borneo;
possibly more went into collections without the name of their collector.
1 The paper is reproduced as close as possible to its original form, including spelling errors. A large proportion of the
identifications give what are now obsolete synonyms so a list of the given family and species names is appended
where corresponding English names and current nomenclature are given (see above).

Reformatted, hyperlinked, and annotated by Martin Laverty, August 2009, June 2010.
2 James Motley (aka Mottley, and a variety of other misprints) (1822-1859) was a Yorkshireman but seems to have
spent much of his youth divided between there and South Wales. He went to Cambridge to study for the Church (12
years after Charles Darwin) but left to follow the profession of civil engineering in the mining industry, for 6 years
in South Wales and 10 in Borneo. All the while, his chief interest was in natural history..
3 Banjermassing (or close variants) is a city in SE Borneo (now the Kalimantan Selatan province of Indonesia).
Motley moved to the area in late 1854 and spent about 4 1/2 years there. Motley was actually based nearer to
Martapura, and the Riam Kiwa is a nearby river
4 Philip Lutley Sclater (1829-1913), lawyer, editor of the British Ornithological Union's journal, and secretary of the
Zoological Society of London.
5 Lewis Llewellyn Dillwyn (1814-1892) was son of Lewis Weston Dillwyn (1788-1855). He arranged identification
of species sent back from Borneo and publication of a single volume of a projected series on 'The Natural History of
Labuan and adjacent areas of Borneo'
6 Motley was actually killed on 1st May 1859 in an uprising which marked the start of the Banjermassin War
7 The skins were almost certainly collected for Dillwyn, but none have been found in Swansea. There is no trace of
them at the Royal Institution of South Wales (see full paper by A.R.Walker, 2005), but the BM catalogues refer to
specimens collected by Motley, some in other the collections of (John) Gould, (Marquis of) Tweeddale, Veitch, and
Wallace and thus seem that many have been in the British Museum, although they, in turn, may have been lost or
distributed to other museums. The only museum so far found to have many specimens is the World Museum,
Liverpool. (see above)
8 Alfred Russel Wallace (1823-1913) corresponded with LW Dillwyn about beetles when he was working as a land
surveyor at Neath in South Wales (1845-1848); Motley discussed plants, birds, and fish. Motley was working about
20 miles away in Llanelli and the Swansea valley at that time and they do not seem to have met. The two were also
both in Singapore in 1854, but again don't seem to have met – if there had been a friendship it may well have caused
problems as James Brooke, Wallace's host in Sarawak, had a mutual antipathy with Motley, developed when they
were respectively Governor and supervisor of the Eastern Archipelago Company in Labuan. However, Wallace's
collections include specimens collected for him, or perhaps sold to his assistant, by Motley from SE Borneo.
9 Hugh Low (1824-1905) had a list of 59 birds in an Appendix (prepared by 'the gentlemen of the British Museum') to
'Sarawak; its Inhabitants and Productions' (1848), as pointed out by Edward Banks in his review of Smythies'
'Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Borneo' (SMJ 24, 1957) in Bull.Raffles Mus. 26 (1961) p197-203; Motley
added 58
AH Everett included 570 species in 'A List of the Birds of the Bornean Group of Islands' JSBRAS 20 (1889) pp
91-212 (but that includes part of the Philippines)
The 2nd edition of Birds of Borneo (1968) lists 549 species: some of the notes from this paper and Motley and
Dillwyn's Labuan book are quoted verbatim. Phillipps & Phillipps (2009) list 664 species.
10 Linn. = Linnaeus
11 Not to be confused with Swainson's (Grasshopper) Hawk, Buteo swainsoni
12 Bodd. = Boddaert
13 Horsf. = Horsfield
14 Temm. = Temminck
15 Gould
16 P.Z.S. = Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London
17 B.Asia = Birds of Asia: 7 Volumes, issued in 35 parts, comprising 530 plates, from 1850-1883
18 pt. 12 = plate 12 (of Vol 1)

19 Buff. = Buffon
20 Pl.Enl. = Planches enluminées by Buffon included 1008 plates, mainly birds
21 Osbeck
22 Lath. = Latham
23 Bp. = Bonaparte
24 Consp. = Conspectus Generum Avium , a classification of birds (in Latin, not illustrated)
25 Raffl. = Raffles
26 Less. = Lesson
27 Mull. = Müller
28 Vahl
29 Cuv. = Cuvier
30 Eyton
31 Gray
32 Forst. = Forster ?
33 Reichb. = Reichenbach
34 Moore, Cat. = [Horsfield &] Moore, A catalogue of the birds in the museum of the Hon. East-India Company (1858)
35 “These birds are not uncommon in Labuan, and frequently fly in small parties of six or eight; they much frequent
dead trees, whose bark is just beginning to fall, and are very amusing to watch, being always in motion, and very
noisy: they begin rather low down on a tree, moving upwards by jumps with a cry like the chatter of a Magpie to the
time of our green Woodpecker's laugh. Perhaps two or three will be ascending one tree at the same time, trying the
bark with incessant taps, and wrenching open every likely crack with their powerful chisel beaks: when they reach
the branches, they hold a sort of discussion of tremendous chatter, and then each takes his own branch, and the bark,
here being usually more decayed than on the stem, comes down in showers. If you make any loud noise or show
yourself suddenly, all disappear in a moment. Perhaps one or two may fly off with a swift but laborious action of the
wings; but the majority hide behind branches. In a minute or so, if all is quiet, you will see a head peer out from
behind some snag, and after looking round and seeing nothing, a croak of satisfaction brings out two or three more
heads; but not a body is seen till all the heads are perfectly satisfied of their safety: at last they all come out and
chatter together most vociferously for a minute or two before they go on feeding. Though apparently so wary, they
rarely leave the tree they are examining, even if fired at. (Messrs Motley and Dillwyn) “
36 Zool. Res. = Zoological researches in Java, and the neighbouring islands (1824)
37 Icon. Av. = Icones Avium, or Figures and Descriptions of New and Interesting Species of Birds from Various Parts
of the World (1837-1838)
38 Moore & Horsf. Cat. = A catalogue of the birds in the museum of the Hon. East-India Company (1858) Vol 1 & Vol
2
39 “Sir Stamford Raffles remarks: 'These are very abundant in the neighbourhood of Bencoolen, and are always seen
flying about in the evening. They make no nests, but lay their eggs on the bare ground.' (Trans.Linn.Soc. XIII
p.316 )”
40 Sclater revised this in P.Z.S. (1865, p.602) to CYPSELUS INFUMATUS: 'I have as yet seen but a single example of this
species, now in Mr Wallace's possession. It formed part of the collection made by the late Mr. Mottley at
Banjermassing, Borneo, for Mr L.L. Dillwyn M.P., of which I have given a list (P.Z.S. 1863, p. 206). It stands there
incorrectly determined as a Collocalia sp.?,. but is decidedly a Cypselus, allied to C.batassiensis of India.'
41 Gm. = Gmelin
42 R.B.Sharpe (1847-1909) renamed this specimen Ceyx dillwyni in a subsequent article 'On the genus Ceyx' (P.Z.S.
1868, p593)
43 Strickl. = Strickland
44 Mon.Trog. = A monograph of the Trogonidae, or family of trogons

(1835-1838 36 plates
& 1858-1875 47 plates)

45 pt. 8 = part 8 (of Vol 1: plate 74)

46 Cont. To Orn. = Contributions to Ornithology , an annual journal by Jardine


47

48 Scop. = Scopoli
49 Val. = Valenciennes
50 Sparm. = Sparrman
51 J.A.S.B. = Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal
52 birn is clearly a misprint for biru (blue)
53 Vieill. = Vieillot
54 Cassin
55 A misprint for Lansat (Lansium domesticum)
56 Hodgs. = Hodgson
57 Pig. = Pigeon (Histoire naturelle génerale des Pigeons et des Gallimacès, 1815)
58 B.Austr. = Birds of Australia and the Adjacent Islands issued in 36 parts, 7 volumes, comprising 600 plates from
1840-1848
59 Penn. = Pennant
60 “sed minor et front e albo carens” is Latin for “but smaller and forehead is white combed(?)” . British Museum
catalogue vol.23 () shows that this distinction was evidently later considered as non-specific.
61 Mont. = Montagu

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