The Grey Squirrel is a small to medium sized member of the rodent family Sciuridae. This species is commonly located in England, Wales and central Scotland. They are known for their agility and ability to climb trees. Interestingly, the tail of the Squirrel serves the purpose of keeping the rain, wind or cold off the body of the animal, to help it cool off in hot weather, to counterbalance when moving and can be utilized as a parachute when jumping from one location to the next. Squirrels consume foods that are rich in protein, carbohydrates and fats. They eat nuts, seeds. fruits and vegetation. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen has silver-grey fur with a pale cream coloured underside. The tale stands tall along the back of the specimen and is bushy. The specimen is of a smaller size and has no tuffs on its ears. It stands on a wooden platform and has two paper tags tied to its hands. One hand is stylized in a raised position while the other remains downward.A.4483 / 39. Ash-coloured / Squirrel / Catalogue. page, 49 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, squirrel

The Squirrel is a small to medium sized member of the rodent family Sciuridae. They are commonly located in America, Eurasia and Africa. The Squirrel was introduced to Australia by humans. Interestingly, the tail of the Squirrel serves the purpose of keeping the rain, wind or cold off the body of the animal, to help it cool off in hot weather, to counterbalance when moving and can be utilized as a parachute when jumping from one location to the next. Squirrels consume foods that are rich in protein, carbohydrates and fats. They eat nuts, seeds. fruits and vegetation. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Carolina Squirrel specimen has dark grey coloured fur. This specimen stands on a wooden platform and its arms are stylized in a raised position next to its face. A paper tag hangs from the right arm with a smaller tag attached to the left. The squirrel has dark black glass eyes and sharp claws on the hands and feet.A.4480 36. Carolina Squirrel / Catalogue, page, 49 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, squirrel

The Weasel is the smallest carnivorous mammal in the world. They commonly reside in central and western Europe and in the Mediterranean region. They can also be found in North Africa, Asia and North America. This species was also later introduced to New Zealand. The Weasel prefers to live in locations which include grasslands, sand dunes, lowland forests, upland moors and towns which have a suitable food source. Collective nouns for a group of Weasels include a "sneak", a "boogie", a "gang" or a "confusion". This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Victoria, as well as individuals such amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.A light coloured weasel standing on a wooden platform. Two identification tags are tied to one of the specimen's back legs. The animal has a long and slim body with a small and triangular shaped head. The teeth are visible from close-up and the eyes have been replaced by dark coloured glass. The snout is pointed and the weasel has long whiskers. The ears are small and rounded.A.4491 ?. Weasel sp. / Catalogue, page, 48 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, squirrel

The photograph is a reproduction of a lantern slide produced in 1880. The image depicts a circus arriving in town. The wagons are being pulled by an elephant.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 3291 / A03291 /entertainment album, circus, beechworth, 1800s, lantern slide, elephants, animals, performance, entertainment

Depicted are three men dressed in women's clothing, including bonnets, tutus and wigs. They are part of a theatre group.The photograph provides insight into entertainment, performance and recreation in Beechworth during the 1950s. The item's interpretive capacity is enhanced by its strong relationship to other photographs in the catalogue. Collectively, these records enrich the community's understanding of how the arts have developed in Beechworth since the mid-twentieth century.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 5657 / K42K242entertainment album, entertainment, dance, theatre, theatrical group, beechworth, event, party, 1950s

Depicted are nine unidentified theatrical performers. Six performers are dressed in long, dark cloaks and two performers are dressed in long, white costumes. There is a male performer dressed in a suit and holding a lantern and umbrella.The photograph provides insight into entertainment, performance and recreation in Beechworth during the 1950s. The item's interpretive capacity is enhanced by its strong relationship to other photographs in the catalogue. Collectively, these records enrich the community's understanding of how the arts have developed in Beechworth since the mid-twentieth century.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 5660 / 6 /entertainment album, entertainment, beechworth, performance, theatre, theatrical group, arts, actor, actress

The photograph depicts three unidentified young male theatrical performers dressed in white costumes. They are wearing animal ears, tutus, and white socks. There are rows of chairs and tables in the background.The photograph provides insight into entertainment, performance and recreation in Beechworth during the 1950s. The item's interpretive capacity is enhanced by its strong relationship to other photographs in the catalogue. Collectively, these records enrich the community's understanding of how the arts have developed in Beechworth since the mid-twentieth century.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 5661 / K42K242entertainment album, entertainment, performance, performers, theatre, theatrical group, arts, recreation, beechworth

The photograph depicts seven unidentified female theatrical performers. They are posing on a stage with a white picket fence and foliage.The photograph provides insight into entertainment, performance and recreation in Beechworth during the 1950s. The item's interpretive capacity is enhanced by its strong relationship to other photographs in the catalogue. Collectively, these records enrich the community's understanding of how the arts have developed in Beechworth since the mid-twentieth century.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: THE OVENS AND MURRAY / 5665 /entertainment, entertainment album, beechworth, arts, performance, theatre, theatrical group, play, recreation

Taken in the 1950s, the photograph depicts three women. Two of them are dressed in theatrical costumes, one of whom is being assisted in dressing up by the third woman. The women in the photograph have been identified as P. Crosthwaite, L. Jorg and M. Clark.The photograph provides insight into entertainment, performance and recreation in Beechworth during the 1950s. The item's interpretive capacity is enhanced by its strong relationship to other photographs in the catalogue. Collectively, these records enrich the community's understanding of how the arts have developed in Beechworth since the mid-twentieth century.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 5643 /entertainment album, costume, theatre, performance, arts, recreation, theatrical costume, 1950s, beechworth

Taken during World Ward 1, the photo features a soldier, HJ Ronald, holding a rifle in front of a building and fencing.This photograph is historically significant as it provides insight into the uniforms worn during the early 20th century and World War 1 period.Black and white rectangular photograph printed on photographic paper and mounted on a beige card.Obverse: H. J. Ronald / Reverse: Donated by George Ronald / 5899 (crossed out) / Dufty Bros Photographers / 237 High Streetmilitary album, burke museum, beechworth, beechworth museum, world war one, wwi, solider, wwi solider, hj ronald

Taken in 1944 in Bonegilla, Victoria, this photograph depicts soldiers of the 1st Australian Corps Signals training battalion releasing carrier pigeons from a portable loft for their daily exercise.The 1st Australian Corps Signals was a branch of the Australian Imperial Airforce that was active during World War Two. One of the tasked carried out by 1st Australian Corps Signals was to send messages through the use of carrier pigeons. Carrier pigeons were most commonly used by the Allied Forces to send messages from the front line trenches or advancing units.Black and white square reproduced photograph on rectangular archival paperObverse: Negative Number: 066265/ thumbnail/ image 066265/ purchased from Australian War Memorial/ Bonegilla Victoria 1944*05-03 Carrier pigeons being released for their/ daily exercise from a portable loft of the 1st Signals training Battlion/ Reverse: 7993/military album, beechworth, burke museum, military, world war 2, ww2, australian army, bonegilla, pigeons

Taken in Syria in 1941, this photograph depicts Sergeant Theodore Arthur Horton, dressed in his military uniform, writing down a message to be sent by carrier pigeon. Standing next to Sergeant Horton is an unknown soldier, dressed in his military uniform, holding a carrier pigeon. Both man are standing in front of a large pigeon loft.The 1st Australian Corps Signals was a branch of the Australian Imperial Airforce that was active during World War Two. One of the tasked carried out by 1st Australian Corps Signals was to send messages through the use of carrier pigeons. Carrier pigeons were most commonly used by the Allied Forces to send messages from the front line trenches or advancing units.Black and white square reproduced photograph on rectangular archival paperObverse: Negative Number: 022213/ purchased from Australian War Memorial/ thumbnail 022213/ Syria 1941-12 Sergeant T A Horton of 1st Australian Corps Signals/ writing a message to be sent by carrier pigeon/ Reverse: 7992/ military album, beechworth, burke museum, military, world war 2, ww2, australian army, sergeant horton, theodore arthur horton

This book has been compiled by W H C Darvall, the Honorary Secretary at the Mission,( turn of 19th- 20th C.) A chronological recording of key dates and events in relation to the workings of the Mission to Seafarers (Victorian Seamen's Mission). The book also includes a number of clippings from newspapers or journals and concludes with an invitation to attend a special meeting of the Mission to discuss a proposed amalgamation with the Victorian Branch of the London Missions to Seamen, 15 November 1905. The author Mr Darvall arrived in Australia as a migrant 1853, served as the first Town Clerk of Beechworth 1856-1870. A solicitor in Collins St 1870s onward, he died in 1906.In diligently recording "matters of interest" to the Mission, Darvall has provided us with a significant point of reference from the establishment of the Victorian Bethel Union, afloat in 1850s through to the proposed amalgamation with the Missions to Seamen finalised in 1906. Many of the events were compiled retrospectively drawing on Annual reports and minutes but many were recorded contemporaneously from the 1890s. The Chronology serves as a means of verifying events through other sources such as minute books, annual reports and so on. It also provides us with the names and functions of people who had significant roles within the Mission from its earliest days in the 1850s through to the amalgamation of 1906.Label adhered to front cover, handwritten in ink: "The Victorian Seamen's Mission/An epitomised History/of/Matters of interest connected therewith/compiled by/ W.H.G. Darvall / Honorary Secretary" Label adhered to inside cover, printed label reading: "No.....Date....18.../A & W Bruce/Manufacturing Stationers,/65 Bourke Street West,/Melbourne/in re-ordering this book it is necessary to state the no. only"minutes, clippings, proceedings, william henry charles darvall (1830-1906)

Taken between circa 1920 - 1950 this photograph depicts a man dressed in dark trousers, a white long sleeved shirt and broad-brimmed workers hat digging around in the Three Mile Mine at Barramutha. The mine was an important gold resource and was typically mined using a method known as hydraulic sluicing whereby high powered water jets are used to dislodge rock or move sediment. The remaining water sediment slurry is directed through sluice boxes to remove the gold. The Beechworth mining district was one of six mining districts established by the governor-in-council on 4th of January 1858 under the provisions of An Act for Amending the Laws Relating to the Goldfields (21 Vic no. 32). This photograph shows historic and research value into the historical methods of hydraulic sluicing in the Beechworth mining disctrict. It also shows the evolution of the mining methods and has potential for understanding future engineering endeavors in the context of victorian mine goldfields. Black and white rectangular photograph printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: 7597.3/ Copied from original on loan from Webb (QLD)/ Donated Nov 2009/ Barnawatha Three Mile Mine 1920-1950/ Owned by Plain Bros then Parkinsons/ Managed by John Weir, Peter Jenson, Jack Cox/ Slicing. three mile creek, three mile goldfields, three mile beechworth, goldfields, #beechworth, hydraulic mining, hydraulic sluice, burke museum

The date this photograph was taken is unknown. Estimated date 1960-70s. The gentleman in the photograph and location the photograph was taken are also unknown. Perhaps in the Beechworth or Stanley area. The photo is associated to another record, 6856 as it has the same elderly gentlemen in the image. He is able to be identified through wearing the same clothes and distinctive hat in both photographs. The photograph is associated to mining as the gentleman is standing next to a small mine site where perhaps a windless or whip was mounted over the entrance of the shaft. The windless was a structure mounted over the shaft, fitted with a hand-cranked winch, which was usually constructed from wood that would have been found in the surrounding area. Colour rectangular photograph printed on glossy photographic paper.Obverse: Reverse: 6856/ mining, windlass, whip, empty record

Ernest Francis William Swan (1887 - 1981). Born Clifton Hill 1887. Educated at Wesley College and Queen's College at the University of Melbourne, where he was awarded an M.A. and B.D. Ordained into the Methodist Church in 1916.He served at Beechworth, Woomeland and Nhill before being appointed minister of the Piedmont Community Church in California in 1926. Whilst in the U.S. he graduated Th.D. at the Berkley Pacific School of Religion. In 1937 he returned to Australia as minister to Henley Beach S.A. Congregational Church. He was minister at Surrey Hills Wyclif Congregational Church 1940 - 1960. Married Mary Madsen in 1917. Died 31 October 1981.B & W head and shoulders studio portrait of Rev. Dr Ernest Francis William Swan, dressed in academic robes.ernest francis william swan, mary madsen, methodist, minister, congregational, wesley college, queen's college, university of melbourne, berkley pacific school of religion

This sign proudly hung outside the Forests Commission Victoria (FCV) Beechworth office which is now site of the Forestry Heritage Museum. The granite building in the Beechworth's historic precinct was once the Gold Warden's Office and is one of the town's original buildings. The FCV was the main government authority responsible for management and protection of State forests in Victoria between 1918 and 1983. The Commission was responsible for ″forest policy, prevention and suppression of bushfires, issuing leases and licences, planting and thinning of forests, the development of plantations, reforestation, nurseries, forestry education, the development of commercial timber harvesting and marketing of produce, building and maintaining forest roads, provision of recreation facilities, protection of water, soils and wildlife, forest research and making recommendations on the acquisition or alienation of land for forest purposes″. The Forests Commission had a long and proud history of innovation and of managing Victoria's State forests but in September 1983 lost its discrete identity when it was merged into the newly formed Victorian Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands (CFL) along with the Crown Lands and Survey Department, National Park Service, Soil Conservation Authority and Fisheries and Wildlife Service. After the amalgamation the management of State forests and the forestry profession continued but the tempo of change accelerated, with many more departmental restructures occurring over the subsequent four decades. Responsibilities are currently split between the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), Forests Fire Management Victoria (FFMV), Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water, Alpine Resorts Commission, the State Government-owned commercial entity VicForests and the privately owned Hancock Victorian Plantations (HVP).Large office sign. Hand painted in traditional FCV mission brown and gold colour scheme.forests commission victoria (fcv), forest signs

The Rainbow Bee-Eater is native to Australia, living across the mainland, except in desert areas. Male and female birds are both brightly coloured, the primary difference being the length of their tail streamers. Male Bee-Eaters have longer streamers than the females. They are insectivores and use techniques to remove threats to themselves; eg. they will remove wasp's stingers to avoid the poison. They nest in sand and dig a long tunnel, at the end is a 'chamber' where they lay the eggs. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century. The Rainbow Bee-Eater is a uniquely beautiful species of bird with strikingly bright colouring. The plumage is green, blue, chestnut and yellow. The build of this specimen is small and graceful and the bill is slender and curved. This Bee-Eater has two distinct streamers that extend from the base of the tail. The glass eyes provided to this specimen are dark black in colour; however, in life, this specimen has red eyes which contrast with the black stripe of colour that is located from the base of the bill to the ears. Below the black stripe, is a smaller pale blue colour. The throat is orange-yellow and the breast is green. The tail is black with a blue tinge to the plumage closer to the rear of the torso. The colouring on this particular specimen has faded significantly, but it provides a good example of what this specimen looked like while alive.Label: 5a / Australian Bee-Eater / See catalogue page 7 / taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, rainbow bee-eater

The Eastern Spinebill is found along the eastern coast of Australia, from Queensland to South Australia. It lives in wooded areas. It is an insectivore and also eats nectar, which is why its beak is a long slender shape. Females and males have slight aesthetic differences; the males have more distinct markings on the head. The female birds build nests and incubate eggs, but both parent birds will feed the young. The Eastern Spinebill has a bright rust coloured belly and throat, with black wings, crown and tail. Its back is light brown. There is a white stripe on its chest which stretches up underneath its eyes. The eyes are red. This taxidermy specimen is not a good representation of the live bird because it is considerably faded and their feathers are very ruffled. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.There are two birds on a wooden stand. One has its beak in the air and the catalogue tag attached to its foot (main bird). It has some minor pest damage around its eye. The opposite bird looks straight ahead. The birds are placed next to each other, facing opposite directions. They are faded and have some ruffled feathers. 60a/ Spine Bill / See catalogue, page 18taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, eastern spinebill

The White-Throated Needletail is a highly sociable bird commonly seen in large flocks containing a hundred plus birds. This species is also known to mingle with birds of different species. They have a distinctive white throat and undertail. This species is mainly airborne, however they are known to reside in trees when on land. They can mainly be spotted along the north and east parts of Australia. This species is listed as vulnerable and threatened in the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland and Victoria. Since this is a taxidermy mount, it is not an accurate depiction of the White-Throated Needletail. The species should have a predominantly grey-brown plumage, with the exception of the throat and undertail which are white. There should also be a green tint to the species feathers. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This White-Throated Needletail had grey-brown feathers. It has distinctive white patches on its throat and under the tail. The back of the bird is a light brown with a white patch in the center of the back. This specimen stands upon a wooden mount and has an identification tag tied around its leg. The bill is short and the wings are long and pointed. The bird's tail is short and square in shape with protruding feather shafts which give a spiky appearance.2a / Spine-Tailed Swift / See catalogue, page 7taxidermy mount, taxidermy, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, white-throated needletail, australian birds

The White-throated Treecreeper is a commonly small bird of the Climacteridae family, that has a loud, piping, whistle-like call. Living in permanent territories and rarely seen on the ground, this species is found in forested areas of south-east and southern mainland Australia. The name tree-creeper comes from their foraging patterns, in which they spiral up the trunk of trees (usually eucalypts for their preferrable rough bark) head-first, probing for ants or nectar with their long, curved beak.The females are distinct from males through orange marks on the sides of their face. The colour of these specimens differ from white-throated tree-creepers, whose plummage on the head and back is usually a dark gray-brown. The beaks of these specimens are also an orange-brown colour whereas these birds usually have a black beak. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This mount includes two White-throated treecreepers secured on a stick, one above the other. The top specimen is female, distinguished by a distinctive orange mark on the sides of its face underneath the eyes. Both specimens have white throat, chest and streaks on the flank. The top of the head and back are both a brown to dark-brown colour, with streaks of those colours on the flank as well. The stick and specimens are mounted on a wooden platform and a swing tag is secured around a part of the stick.Swing tag: 67a. / White-throated treecreeper / See catalogue, page 20 / Wooden Mount: 85taxidermy mount, taxidermy, burke museum, beechworth, bird, treecreeper, australian birds, white-throated, white-throated treecreeper, reynell eveleigh johns

This fairly large woodpecker of the Picadae family is widely distributed across most parts of Europe and the UK, with some occurrence in Western Asia. Preferring semi-open habitats such as woodlands, heathlands and gardens, the species is unique amongst woodpeckers as it prefers to hunt and feed on the ground for its ant prey. This species has a distinctive bright red crown, black moustasche-like stripes, mostly green back plumage and a paler green to yellow breast. This is a female of the species as the male has a red centre to the moustache stripe at the side of the beak. This specimen is a fairly accurate depiction of a Green Woodpecker. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This Green Woodpecker has a distinctive red crown on its head that appears patchy. It has a black face, a black moustache-like stripe on each side of the beak, pale eyes and long light yellow-orange beak. The back of the bird is green, and its flank and breast is a pale cream-yellow colour. It has slightly visible distinct white-dotted brown feathers folded into its wings. The specimen is mounted on a wooden perch, with a metal tag tied around its right leg and a paper tag around each leg.Swing tag: 1e. / Green Woodpecker / Catalogue page 66 / Metal tag: 4308 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, woodpecker, green woodpecker, eurasian green woodpecker

The Blue-faced Honeyeater is commonly located in northern and eastern mainland Australia. It is also found in Papua New Guinea. This species prefer to reside in tropical locations or those which are sub-tropical and wetter temperate or semi-arid zones. It can be located in open forests and woodlands close to water. Due to these locations along with it's propensity for feeding on the fruit and flowers of the banana in northern Queensland, this species is colloquially known as the "Bananabird". These birds commonly reside in pairs, family groups or small flocks. They can often be found socialising with other species including the yellow-throated miner and the Little Friarbird. The Blue-faced Honeyeater feed on insects and invertebrates, but also may eat nectar and fruit from native and exotic plants. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The blue-faced Honeyeater is large in size with bright white and black colouring. The bird also has golden olive-green colouring on it's rear, tail and wings. Around the eyes is strikingly blue coloured skin which has faded significantly on this particular specimen. It also has a pair of glass eyes to replace the original which do not survive the taxidermy process. There is a patch of dark colouring on the plumage of the stomach and neck of the bird. This dark batch is surrounded by white plumage which also forms a white band across the back of the neck. This specimen is stylized placed on a wooden mount. The bird's feet are attached to a thin stick and the stick attached to the mount.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, honeyeater, blue-faced honeyeater

The Nankeen Kestrel, also known as the Australian Kestrel, is a common native to the open country's grasslands and farmlands, preferring agricultural areas. They are drawn to animal pests like mice, insects, small animals, reptiles, and birds. Due to the shape and ability of their tail feathers, which allows them to hoover over their prey, they do not rely on speed to catch their meal like most falcons in their family group. These birds are among the smallest raptors in the Falcon family, having well-known face characteristics and body shapes. The females of the species are distinguished by their darker patterns and red-brown (rufous) tones, as well as their larger size, whilst the males are more greyish. The yellow markings around the eyes and top of the beak, as well as the noticeable black dipped wings, distinguish each species. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.The Nankeen Kestrel is a small raptor in the Falcon family. It has a stockier appearance, with the upper parts of its body, such as the head and the tops of its wings, being a light red-brown (rufous) colour and the tips of its wings appearing dipped in black. The top of the beak and the eye rings are both yellow, and this bird's falcon appearance shows its inherent dark streak markings visible near the eyes and on the chest. The underparts are pale, with a tail feather that spreads out to help it hover and is ornamented with fine black decorations.20. / Unnamed / Catalogue page 5 / taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, nankeen kestrel

Red Headed Woodpeckers can be found in Southern Canada and a large portion of the United States of America, generally migrating to the south if they originated in the northern regions. Their habitat is open forests or savannahs. They are classed as omnivores, finding food from pecking at wood or in flight. The Red Headed Woodpecker is threatened in Canada and some areas of the United States due to deforestation, lack of deadwood for nesting, competition with other birds, and a lack of food. They are an important part of the ecosystem, controlling insect populations and pollinating flora. Red Headed Woodpeckers typically have a beautiful, vibrant red neck and head, a stark white chest, black back, and black wings with white secondary remiges. They have a large chisel-like beak, suitable for foraging for their food. Their heads are rounded and they have short tails. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This Red Headed Woodpecker is a small to medium-sized bird found in North America. This specimen is tricoloured: it has a red head and neck, a white chest, a black back, and black wings with white secondary remiges. It has a large chisel-like beak. This specimen has pest or humidity damage on the neck and head area. This specimen is standing on a wooden mount with a swing tag attached to it's leg.Swing-tag: 151a. Unnamed / Catalogue page, 60 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, red headed woodpecker

The Dollar Bird is the only member of the Roller family found in Australia and can be found in forests and woodland areas. The name of this bird comes from the large white spot on the underside of each wing which resemble silver dollars. They travel to Australia each year to breed from New Guinea and the surrounding area. Their main source of food is insects which they hunt during flight. They capture these foods while displaying skillful aerial pursuits. They then return to the same perch they were upon when they left to catch their food. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This juvenile Dollar bird's feet are a faded brown and the bill is a light yellow. The colour of this specimen's head and neck are a cool grey which fades to a patch of bright purple on its upper chest. The back is grey while the underbelly and wings are a light blue-grey. The tail feathers are tipped in black. The specimen is standing on a wooden mount.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, dollar bird

The Black Shouldered Kite is commonly found throughout mainland Australia in grasslands and other open habitats. It is a raptor (bird of prey) that will eat mice and other small rodents. The species is monogamous and will find a mate by the male giving food to the female while both are in flight. It is sometimes confused with the letter-winged kite though there undercarriages when in flight are very different with the letter-winged showing the letter W or M and the black shouldered kite showing black wing tips with white towards its belly area. The feathers of this species when alive and in the wild are more white than this specimen. The iris is usually red in mature birds so this specimen may not have been a mature bird as its eyes are brown. However, this is difficult to ascertain because it is also possible that the taxidermist who replaced the original eyes with the current glass ones provided a colour which was not accurate to the age/species of the bird. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This Black Shouldered Kite has a white face and front of body with a grey posterior from the top of its head to its tail. It has black on its wings/shoulders. Its face is white with its eyes delineated by small black apostrophe like shapes from the inner eye to the top of the eye. The specimen stands on a wooden perch and has a swing tag tied around its right leg. Its eye colour is brown rather than red, indicating it is not a mature specimen.9. / Black Shouldered Kite / See Catalogue, page 3 / taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, black shouldered kite

The Superb Lyrebird is a large ground-dwelling bird with powerful legs and long tail. Found in rainforest habitats in southeastern Australia, it forages in leaf litter for food. It has a very powerful song and is known for mimicking other species. The males have spectacular long tail comprising a variety of feather types, where juveniles and females lack the longer tail feathers. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This male Superb Lyrebird is primarily grey/brown. It has striking tail feathers that are white, beige and darker brown that vary in size. Aside from the middle of its tail feathers, the parts of the bird which are darker brown include the top of its head, wings and back. The bird has strong legs and a small beak. This specimen stands upon a wooden platform.taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, superb lyrebird

The Superb Lyrebird is a large ground-dwelling bird with powerful legs and long tail. Found in rainforest habitats in southeastern Australia, it forages in leaf litter for food. It has a very powerful song and is known for mimicking other species. The males have spectacular long tail comprising a variety of feather types, where juveniles and females lack the longer tail feathers. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This male Superb Lyrebird is primarily grey/brown. It has striking tail feathers that are white, beige and darker brown that vary in size. Aside from the middle of its tail feathers, the parts of the bird which are darker brown include the top of its head, wings and back. The bird has strong legs and a small beak. This specimen stands upon a wooden platform. taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, superb lyrebird

The Superb Lyrebird is a large ground-dwelling bird with powerful legs and long tail. Found in rainforest habitats in southeastern Australia, it forages in leaf litter for food. It has a very powerful song and is known for mimicking other species. The males have spectacular long tail comprising a variety of feather types, where juveniles and females lack the longer tail feathers. This specimen is part of a collection of almost 200 animal specimens that were originally acquired as skins from various institutions across Australia, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Museum of Victoria (known as Museums Victoria since 1983), as well as individuals such as amateur anthropologist Reynell Eveleigh Johns between 1860-1880. These skins were then mounted by members of the Burke Museum Committee and put-on display in the formal space of the Museum’s original exhibition hall where they continue to be on display. This display of taxidermy mounts initially served to instruct visitors to the Burke Museum of the natural world around them, today it serves as an insight into the collecting habits of the 19th century.This specimen is part of a significant and rare taxidermy mount collection in the Burke Museum. This collection is scientifically and culturally important for reminding us of how science continues to shape our understanding of the modern world. They demonstrate a capacity to hold evidence of how Australia’s fauna history existed in the past and are potentially important for future environmental research. This collection continues to be on display in the Museum and has become a key part to interpreting the collecting habits of the 19th century.This female Superb Lyrebird is primarily grey/brown. It has shorter tail feathers than the male, which are dark and light brown, and vary in size. The bird's wings, chest and belly are a lighter grey/brown, and there are hints of yellow-white in the edges of the feathers and through the bird's chest. The bird has strong legs and a small beak. This specimen stands upon a wooden platform.37a. / Lyrebird / See Catalogue, page [illegible] /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, superb lyrebird