Proceedings of the South African Literary and Scientific Institution

Abstract

This record details the proceedings of the South African Literary and Scientific Institution meeting held on 2 October 1833, focusing on the presentation of several newly described South African bird species by Dr Smith.

Dr Smith formally brought several South African birds to the attention of the Society, providing detailed descriptions and assigning new scientific names to at least three specimens:

1. Crithagra albogularis (White-throated Canary/Finch): Described by its greenish-grey upper parts, greenish-yellow rump, and distinctive white chin, throat, and eyebrows. The length is recorded as five and a half inches. The description notes an existing controversy, mentioning that Sir Wm. Jardine considered it the female of Crithagra sulphurata, an assertion contradicted by Dr Smith's observation that the two birds are never found associated or in the same localities.

2. Corythaix concolor (Grey Lourie/Turaco): Described by its long crest and overall greyish plumage, faintly mottled with dull reddish-white lines. Notable features include a very long, hoary-grey tail with a deep greenish gloss. The total length is nineteen inches, and its habitat is specified as South Africa, inland of Port Natal. Dr Smith remarked that its bill shape differs from the typical genus species and suggested it might necessitate a new division, Corythaixoides, in future classification.

3. Francolinus Natalensis (Natal Francolin/Partridge): Characterised by its light brown plumage finely mottled with black and tawny white on the head and back, with longitudinal black blotches on the scapulars. The breast and sides of the neck are variegated black and white. It has a reddish-brown bill and reddish-yellow legs. The length is twelve and a half inches, and it inhabits brushwood thickets in the vicinity of Natal.

The proceedings reflect the Institution's commitment to the precise identification, classification, and study of the natural history of South Africa, based on the field work of its members, particularly Dr Smith.