Eggs

Abstract

Chionis minor, Hartl. (Lesser Sheathbill.) The general character of 19 eggs is a dirty white ground, splashed and blotched with brown. At the first glance there is a startling superficial resemblance in coloration, and sometimes in shape, to a very common dark form of the egg of the Razorbill ( Alca torda) ; other specimens are in shape and markings like boldly blotched examples of eggs of the (Edicnemus group of Plovers. On shining them to the light, the eggs show a green membranous lining. Unfortunately the egg of the other species Chionis alba (Gm.), of the Falkland Islands, is not known, for Capt. Abbott, who wrote an account of the birds of the Falklands (Ibis 18), did not obtain it, and the statements made to him by the sealers as to its egg being white, must be received with doubt. The first eggs were obtained on 23rd Dec., and in stating that none were found by Mr. Eaton until 10th January, the American Naturalist, Dr. Kidder, must have been labouring under an error. The complement of eggs seems to be one or two, and rarely three. The average dimensions of the egg are 2·2 in. X 1·5 in. Querquedula eatoni, Sharpe. Thirty eggs of this species present remarkable variation, the general hue being of a pale green or greenish buff. Laying appears to commence early in December. The average dimensions are 2 in. x l·4 in.