common foreign birds are still unknown to recognized ornithologists, and unrepresented in our museums. The aviculturist who describes these young plumages, or supplies the gaps in collections, is undoubtedly doing good ornithological work, and has as much claim to the title of scientist as any other man who adds to the sum of general knowledge.
For the reasons adduced above, I think it would be an excellent thing if the Editor of 'The Zoologist' would open a column in its pages for new scientific facts observed by aviculturists. I feel sure that, from time to time, Messrs. Meade Waldo, St. Quintin, the Rev. H.A. Macpherson, and other well-known reliable students of birds in captivity, would be able to add to the general store of ornithological knowledge.—A.G. Butler.
[We have great pleasure in opening a column for the communications of aviculturists. The aviary, like the aquarium, should afford some much desired zoological information, where observations may be made on the habits of animals which are practically unattainable elsewhere. Zoological gardens in all civilized countries sufficiently attest the scientific importance of the study of animals in captivity. Those who keep birds purely for pastime are equivalent to those who shoot them only for sport, and do not affect the argument.—Ed.]
Longevity of Red-headed Cardinal.—It may interest some of your readers to know that I have just lost by death a Red-headed Cardinal (Paroaria cucullata), which I bought in February, 1874, and which had therefore lived for twenty-five years and four months in captivity, always in a cage.—Walter Chamberlain (Bromesberrow Place, Ledbury).
