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Show .1879.] MR. R. B. SHARPE ON THE BIRDS OF LABUAN. 347 At b is a hole similar to the embouchure of a flute; and the lower end of the blow-tube, a, is fitted to this in such a manner that, on blowing at a, a soft, low, flute-like ' cooing' is easily producible; and this can be readily modulated so as to be heard either at a long distance or near at hand. The native, who has taken up his position in the forest or jungle where these little birds are found, blows very softly at first; but if there be no answering call from the birds he blows louder and louder, thus increasing the radius of sound. If there really be any Pigeons of this kind within hearing, they are sure to answer ; and then the hunter blows softer and softer until thev are * i • • - ** enticed into the ' wigwam ' of leafy branches which he has erected in order to conceal himself from sight. The door or entrance to Fig. 4. ' Dakut' or call used by the Khadyan natives. these ' wigwams ' is partially closed by a screen of palm (Nipa fru-ticans) leaves. This is elevated a little (as shown in m y sketch) to allow the Pigeons to enter,-after which it is allowed to fall, portcullis- like, entirely, so as to close the entrance; and the bird is then easily secured. Above the entrance two holes are made, so that the hunter can look out without being seen. These huts are formed of a few poles or sticks, rudely thatched with twigs and palm-leaves, and vary from four to six feet in height. " This Pigeon is migratory, and arrives in Labuan and on the opposite Bornean coast with the change of the monsoon, about April. Many hundreds are then caught by means of this ' dakut,' or ' bamboo call,' and are offered for sale by their captors for a cent or two each. They are also kept by the natives as domestic pets, along with young Hornbills, the ' Mina' bird or ' Grackle,' a small species of Parrakeet, and Java Sparrows." |