This particular species is native to Australia and can be located throughout the mainland, preferably in the south-western interior. It is known for its distinctively upturned bill, the males of this species have a slightly more upturn to their bill than the female. This style of bill is unusual among birds and is used to assist them forage in the water of shallow wetlands. These birds feed on aquatic insects, crustaceans and seeds. The name of this species is derived from the distinctive chestnut brown/red colouring of the head and neck. Interestingly, the call of this bird has been described as a "yapping" sound which is similar to the sound of dogs barking when performed by a flock in flight. 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 Necked Avocat specimen is stylized in a standing position upon a wooden platform. There is a pale brown identification tag tied around its left leg. The bird has long pale grey coloured legs and a characteristic long, thin and black upturned bill. The plumage of this species is largely white. It has a chestnut brown/red coloured head which is where this species gets its name. The wings are white with black tips.25c. / Avocet / Catalogue, page, 36. / taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, large bird, red necked avocat, avocat

This particular species is native to Australia and can be located throughout the mainland, preferably in the south-western interior. It is known for its distinctively upturned bill, the males of this species have a slightly more upturn to their bill than the female. This style of bill is unusual among birds and is used to assist them forage in the water of shallow wetlands. These birds feed on aquatic insects, crustaceans and seeds. The name of this species is derived from the distinctive chestnut brown/red colouring of the head and neck. Interestingly, the call of this bird has been described as a "yapping" sound which is similar to the sound of dogs barking when performed by a flock in flight. 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 Necked Avocat specimen is stylized in a standing position upon a wooden platform. There is a pale brown identification tag tied around its left leg. The bird has long pale grey coloured legs and a characteristic long, thin and black upturned bill. The plumage of this species is largely white. It has a chestnut brown/red coloured head which is where this species gets its name. The wings are white with black tips.24c. / Avocat / Catalogue, page, 36. /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, large bird, red necked avocat, avocat

Russian-born Nina Christesen (nee Maximoff) is regarded as the pioneer of Russian academic studies in Australia. In 1946 she became a lecturer in Russian at Melbourne University, and in 1947 established the Department of Russian Language and Literature, remaining its head until her retirement in 1977. In 1987 she was made a Member of the Order of Australia. Nina was married to Clem Christesen, founder and editor of the respected (if left-leaning) literary magazine "Meanjin". They lived at "Stanhope" in Peter Street, Eltham. Visitors included writers Patrick White and Xavier Herbert, painters Arthur Boyd and Clifton Pugh, and historians Manning Clark and Geoffrey Blainey. In 1955, both Nina and Clem were interrogated by the Petrov Royal Commission on suspicion of being Communist sympathisers, which they reputedly rebutted wittily. Nina died in 2001 and Clem in 2003. They are buried together at Eltham Cemetery. There is also a memorial to Nina at the Eltham Living and Learning Centre, in the form of a bluestone amphitheatre with a floor of hand-painted tiles. Christesen In Loving Memory Of Clement Byrne 1911 - 2003 Beloved husband of Nina Mikhailovna Christesen and Nina Mikhailovna 1911 - 2001 Beloved wife of Clement Byrne Christesen also In Memoriam Captain Mikhail Ivanovich Maximoff 1885 - 1967 Tatiana Semenovna Maximoff 2888 - 1979Born Digitaleltham cemetery, gravestones, heritage excursion, clem christesen, clement byne christesen, nina mikhailovna christesen, captain mikhail ivanovich maximoff, tatiana semenovna maximoff

Russian-born Nina Christesen (nee Maximoff) is regarded as the pioneer of Russian academic studies in Australia. In 1946 she became a lecturer in Russian at Melbourne University, and in 1947 established the Department of Russian Language and Literature, remaining its head until her retirement in 1977. In 1987 she was made a Member of the Order of Australia. Nina was married to Clem Christesen, founder and editor of the respected (if left-leaning) literary magazine "Meanjin". They lived at "Stanhope" in Peter Street, Eltham. Visitors included writers Patrick White and Xavier Herbert, painters Arthur Boyd and Clifton Pugh, and historians Manning Clark and Geoffrey Blainey. In 1955, both Nina and Clem were interrogated by the Petrov Royal Commission on suspicion of being Communist sympathisers, which they reputedly rebutted wittily. Nina died in 2001 and Clem in 2003. They are buried together at Eltham Cemetery. There is also a memorial to Nina at the Eltham Living and Learning Centre, in the form of a bluestone amphitheatre with a floor of hand-painted tiles. Christesen In Loving Memory Of Clement Byrne 1911 - 2003 Beloved husband of Nina Mikhailovna Christesen and Nina Mikhailovna 1911 - 2001 Beloved wife of Clement Byrne Christesen also In Memoriam Captain Mikhail Ivanovich Maximoff 1885 - 1967 Tatiana Semenovna Maximoff 2888 - 1979eltham cemetery, gravestones, memorials, captain mikhail ivanovich maximoff, clem christesen, clement byne christesen, nina mikhailovna christesen, tatiana semenovna maximoff

Born August 7, 1842 on the Merri Creek, Coburg Died August 13, 1914 at his home, 'Wattle Brae', Eltham aged 74 years. 'Wattle Brae' is the name Phillip Shillingaw gave to their cottage in Eltham. In his Will, Phillip stated that any of his unmarried daughters could continue to live in Wattle Brae rent free. Both Annie and Elizabeth remained unmarried and continued to live at Wattle Brae until the Shire of Eltham purchased the property in 1963. POSTCARD 1905-1940s Like the carte-de-visite, postcards enjoyed a collecting craze by large numbers of people, and were often kept in albums through which the interested visitor could browse. Postcards were posted or exchanged in huge numbers. Postal authorities in Australia only allowed the private printing of postcards from 1898. At this time the back of the card was reserved for the address and postage stamp, and the front was used for the message and a picture. In 1902 British authorities allowed a "divided back", so that the left side could be used for the message, the right side for the address and stamp, and the whole of the front was devoted to the picture. France followed suit in 1904, Germany and Australia in 1905, and the United States in 1907. - Frost, Lenore; Dating Family Photos 1850-1920; Valiant Press Pty. Ltd., Berwick, Victoria 1991marg ball collection, postcard, 1908, mary ann shillinglaw (1880-1963), phillip shillinglaw (1842-1914), shillinglaw cottage, wattle brae

Sign: Nillumbik Shire Council Pony Club area dogs must be leashed horses must not be ridden on asphalt pathways Newsletter No., 234, June 2017 Heritage Excursion - Saturday 1st July - Eltham Lower Park - Walk and Talk Eltham Lower Park has played an important part in the history of our area since the early days of European settlement when it was used by local residents as an informal racecourse. Prior to that its location at the junction of the Diamond Creek and the Yarra River made it an important meeting place for the Wurundjeri people. The park combines formal elements and sporting facilities with remnant bushland that is of environmental significance. It is home to sporting and horse riding clubs, popular play spaces and the Diamond Valley Miniature Railway, which attracts large numbers of visitors. The park will be the venue for our July excursion which will comprise a walk of about 3.5 km around the park and adjacent areas. Along the way we will discuss the history and natural history of the area. The path along the creek and the river provides a pleasant and scenic walk. This walk on Saturday 1st July is about 3.5 km in length and will take 2 to 2.5 hours. It will start at 2pm at the Main Road car park at the front of the park. (Melway ref 21 H 10). Born Digitalelection day, heritage excursion, activities, eltham district historical society, eltham lower park, sign, eltham pony club

Street signage: Attention park users these are residential streets please show concern drive slowly 20 m.p.h with graffiti Newsletter No., 234, June 2017 Heritage Excursion - Saturday 1st July - Eltham Lower Park - Walk and Talk Eltham Lower Park has played an important part in the history of our area since the early days of European settlement when it was used by local residents as an informal racecourse. Prior to that its location at the junction of the Diamond Creek and the Yarra River made it an important meeting place for the Wurundjeri people. The park combines formal elements and sporting facilities with remnant bushland that is of environmental significance. It is home to sporting and horse riding clubs, popular play spaces and the Diamond Valley Miniature Railway, which attracts large numbers of visitors. The park will be the venue for our July excursion which will comprise a walk of about 3.5 km around the park and adjacent areas. Along the way we will discuss the history and natural history of the area. The path along the creek and the river provides a pleasant and scenic walk. This walk on Saturday 1st July is about 3.5 km in length and will take 2 to 2.5 hours. It will start at 2pm at the Main Road car park at the front of the park. (Melway ref 21 H 10). Born Digitalheritage excursion, activities, eltham district historical society, eltham lower park, sign, grafitti

Civic Guide sign near the entrance of Eltham Lower Park with a map of the local area and an advertisement for Eltham College Newsletter No., 234, June 2017 Heritage Excursion - Saturday 1st July - Eltham Lower Park - Walk and Talk Eltham Lower Park has played an important part in the history of our area since the early days of European settlement when it was used by local residents as an informal racecourse. Prior to that its location at the junction of the Diamond Creek and the Yarra River made it an important meeting place for the Wurundjeri people. The park combines formal elements and sporting facilities with remnant bushland that is of environmental significance. It is home to sporting and horse riding clubs, popular play spaces and the Diamond Valley Miniature Railway, which attracts large numbers of visitors. The park will be the venue for our July excursion which will comprise a walk of about 3.5 km around the park and adjacent areas. Along the way we will discuss the history and natural history of the area. The path along the creek and the river provides a pleasant and scenic walk. This walk on Saturday 1st July is about 3.5 km in length and will take 2 to 2.5 hours. It will start at 2pm at the Main Road car park at the front of the park. (Melway ref 21 H 10). Born Digitalheritage excursion, activities, eltham district historical society, eltham lower park, civic guide, eltham college, sign

Local Historian Russell Yeoman and EDHS President Jim Connor with a map and aerial photograph of the area the heritage walk will cover. Newsletter No., 234, June 2017 Heritage Excursion - Saturday 1st July - Eltham Lower Park - Walk and Talk Eltham Lower Park has played an important part in the history of our area since the early days of European settlement when it was used by local residents as an informal racecourse. Prior to that its location at the junction of the Diamond Creek and the Yarra River made it an important meeting place for the Wurundjeri people. The park combines formal elements and sporting facilities with remnant bushland that is of environmental significance. It is home to sporting and horse riding clubs, popular play spaces and the Diamond Valley Miniature Railway, which attracts large numbers of visitors. The park will be the venue for our July excursion which will comprise a walk of about 3.5 km around the park and adjacent areas. Along the way we will discuss the history and natural history of the area. The path along the creek and the river provides a pleasant and scenic walk. This walk on Saturday 1st July is about 3.5 km in length and will take 2 to 2.5 hours. It will start at 2pm at the Main Road car park at the front of the park. (Melway ref 21 H 10). Born Digitalheritage excursion, activities, eltham district historical society, eltham lower park, russell yeoman, jim connor, guide

The following is an extract from Warrnambool and District Historical Society Website which explains briefly the Great Exhibition of 1896-97 The Great Industrial and Art Exhibition in Warrnambool in 1896-97 was an exciting affair for the town and the surrounding area. People came from far and wide to be enlightened, educated and entertained, with 70,000 visitors passing through the doors during the three months of the exhibition. Not bad for a town with a population of only 6,500 and a further 9,200 living in the surrounding shire! Planning began at a public meeting attended by 60 people in May 1896 and the exhibition opened in December the same year on the site of the current Light House Theatre. The architects submitted plans for four annexes, complete with turrets, a fernery and a giant flagpole. The site covered 1 acre and included a Marine court, industrial exhibits, an education court, defense and agriculture court, stalls, coach builders, dairy show, an art court and provision for a smorgasbord of various entertainment. (The Story of the Warrnambool Industrial & Art Exhibition 1896-97- E O’Callaghan) This certificate was one of many awards for competency and /or excellence in a wide range of activities and skills. Warrnambool Industrial & Art Exhibition 1896-1897 Competitions-Piano forte solo Gertrude Lewin- prizewinner W J Hickford- Mayor E Lyle Rossiter As a link to one of the biggest events ever held in Warrnambool this item has significant value to the history of Warrnambool. It has social significance also linking a number of names related to the event. Rectangular cardboard. pale cream and aqua background, multi linear gold and deeper aqua border with rounded and right angled corners. An interior border has a swag, linear vertical ribbons with four emblems related to science, labour, arts and industry. Four local black and white photographs, the town council crest and town officials, patron and councillors. An inscription of the prizewinner, event and signatures is written in a cream square in the middle of the certificate.Warrnambool/Industrial & Art Exhibition Opened Dec 21st 1896/ By the Chief Justice of Victoria/ Sir John Madden, K.C.M.G. upper L corner. Closed March 19th 1897/ By the Mayoress of Warrnambool/ Mrs WJ Hickford 'First Order of Merit/ Awarded to Gertrude Lewin/ of Parkville/ for Piano forte Solo (under 15) Signatures of WJ Hickford, President and E Lyle Rossiter, Secretary gertrude lewin, wj hickford, e lyle rossiter, the great warrnambool exhibitiion, warrnambool, pianoforte

Old Ballarat Pottery was set up by John Gilbert as part of the Old Ballarat Village, opposite Sovereign Hill. Gilbert had lectured at Ballarat College of Advanced Education before establishing the Edinburgh Pottery at Sovereign Hill in 1972 to enable visitors to see traditional trades at work. The Old Ballarat Pottery was a much larger concern, producing wares for sale through department stores and on party plan via Faberware as well as through the village. Early works looked as though they might have been made in the 1850s, with unturned bases, crude marks and dark treacle-like glazes. Peter Pilven, one of Gilbert's students, worked there after graduating from the Ballarat College of Advanced Education, teaching throwing to students like the potter John Ferguson, who was there from 1978-79. Potters were initially employed by Gilbert's company Pontresina Pty Ltd, registered in 1973. (The Old Ballarat Pottery was registered as a company from 1984-1994.) Early works are marked with an impressed long-tailed 'B', or an 'OB' on either side of a mine tower. A printed stamp also features a mine tower surrounded by the text 'Old Ballarat Pottery Made in Australia'. Later work is impressed 'Stoneware Old Ballarat Pottery Australia' with a kangaroo.Hand thrown blue glazed jug.Stamped 'Stoneware Old Ballarat Pottery?old ballarat pottery, australian studio pottery, jug, pontresina, ceramics

Old Ballarat Pottery was set up by John Gilbert as part of the Old Ballarat Village, opposite Sovereign Hill. Gilbert had lectured at Ballarat College of Advanced Education before establishing the Edinburgh Pottery at Sovereign Hill in 1972 to enable visitors to see traditional trades at work. The Old Ballarat Pottery was a much larger concern, producing wares for sale through department stores and on party plan via Faberware as well as through the village. Early works looked as though they might have been made in the 1850s, with unturned bases, crude marks and dark treacle-like glazes. Peter Pilven, one of Gilbert's students, worked there after graduating from the Ballarat College of Advanced Education, teaching throwing to students like the potter John Ferguson, who was there from 1978-79. Potters were initially employed by Gilbert's company Pontresina Pty Ltd, registered in 1973. (The Old Ballarat Pottery was registered as a company from 1984-1994.) Early works are marked with an impressed long-tailed 'B', or an 'OB' on either side of a mine tower. A printed stamp also features a mine tower surrounded by the text 'Old Ballarat Pottery Made in Australia'. Later work is impressed 'Stoneware Old Ballarat Pottery Australia' with a kangaroo.Hand thrown black glazed bottle with lip. Stamped 'Stoneware Old Ballarat Pottery' and impressed with a long tailed B.old ballarat pottery, australian studio pottery, pontresina, bottle

Nino Corda was a Geelong based textile designer who worked at various textile mills between 1957 & 2003. He travelled the world in search of the latest fashions and techniques and developed timeless designs that were much loved by Australians. These items are on rotational display at the National Wool Museum’s ‘In the Factory’ exhibition. For many years, Nino also worked as part of the Honorary Staff of the National Wool Museum. His passion for the world of textiles provided energy and knowledge to the visitors and staff of the museum. Although Nino has now retired from his honorary position and has hung up his Australian Tartan vest, these items will continue to serve the community in sharing the stories of Australian Textile design. This notebook contains information on how to calculate and enlarge a small sample pattern into a larger textile. It is a hand-written notebook that was passed from a master to an apprentice. This notebook is written in German and belonged to George Snchabel and was given to Nino Corda, who eventually donated it to the National Wool Museum. Nino only spoke basic German so many of the passages of writing were lost to him, regardless the illustrations and little bits of German he did know made this a useful resource which was often looked upon for inspiration and guidance.The notebook has a black cover on both the front and back with no writing. The spine is in bad condition and is being held together by three strips of tape. Internally, the pages have faded to a pale peach colour with a background blue square pattern. The notebook is completed with black ink used for writing and illustration. Occasional red ink is used for highlighting and illustration.textile calculations, textile design

This trowel was presented to City of Bendigo Mayor, Simeon Ryan by Mr B. Deakin the Australian representative of the Victorian Electric Supply Company on the occasion of the laying of the foundation stone for the new power house building in Hargreaves Street, Bendigo. This power house was built to supply power to both Bendigo and Eaglehawk and the overhead power system for the tramway which ran from Quarry Hill, through the city to Eaglehawk and from Golden Square to Lake Weeroona. The building of the power house changed Eaglehawk and Bendigo as street lights were installed and houses became electrified. A report in the Bendigo Independent in 1902 reported ' Night will then be almost as brilliant as the day and people .... who live in the suburbs are to be provided with a tram service worth of the name'. (See reference A Mammoth Scheme.) The tramways closed in April 1972 after the Victorian Parliament granted the SEC an application to cease operating. Today Bendigo Trust operates the tourist trams which run along Pall Mall and welcomes over 40,000 visitors annually. The Bendigo Tramways Depot is the oldest operating tram depot in Australia and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. There are currently 45 trams in the fleet (13 of which operate as part of the 'Talking' Tram service).For more about the history and to tour the tramways visit www.bendigotramways.com.Triangular shaped silver engraved trowel with ivory handle (0286a). Top face of trowel is ornately engraved with floral and decorative motifs and an image of an electric tram and two power poles. Reverse has engraved text. No makers mark detected. Housed in a leather covered case (0286b), lined with ruched blue silk. Case has two brass hinges and two small brass clasps.PRESENTED / By / THE ELECTRIC SUPPLY CO / OF VICTORIA TO / SIMEON RYAN. ESQ JP. / MAYOR OF BENDIGO / ON THE OCCASION OF HIS LAYING / THE MEMORIAL STONE OF THE / BENDIGO AND EAGLEHAWK / ELECTRIC LIGHT AND TRAMWAY / POWER HOUSE / 26th JUNE, 1901/ STERLING SILVERcouncillor simeon ryan, councillor s h mc gowan, councillor john hoskins, councillor george loudon, councillor john green, councillor alfred hicks, borough of eaglehawk, borough of eaglehawk mayor, mayor loudon, city of bendigo mayor, mayor ryan, bendigo and eaglehawk tramway

George Brunning was born in Suffolk, England, on 2 October 1830 and settled in St Kilda in June, 1852. He was a gardener and became part-proprietor and manager of Rule's Nursery in Richmond before establishing the first nursery of his own in 1861. Following his death on 5 June 1893, his sons continued the business. An article published in Punch in 1907 observed 'Nearly all the flowers grown in and around Melbourne, indeed, throughout Victoria, which are not native to Australia, had their origins in the nurseries of George Brunning and Sons. The statement is a large one to make, but it is literally true.'Single page black and white photocopy of advertisement from an unidentified publication for G Brunning & SonG Brunning & Son, St Kilda Nurseries, Near Melbourne, Beg to announce they have the Largest and Most Extensive Nursery Stock in the Australian Colonies. Ten acres of our ground are under cultivation with Flowers and Shrubs, upwards of two acres being covered with pot grown plants. We are the biggest Importers of new florists flowers in the Southern Hemisphere, always adding to our Stock all the Novelties as they appear in Europe. Our nurseries are particularly noted for the fine collections of roses, show, fancy and zone pelargoniums, fuchsias, picots, carnations, and other leading Plants, Shrubs, etc. In addition, we cultivate extensively the best and most popular kinds of fruit trees, of sorts suitable for private gardens, or for market purposes. Priced Catalogues are published annually in May, and will be forwarded gratis on application to G Brunning & Son, St Kilda Nurseries, Near Melbourne. Visitors to Melbourne are respectfully invited to inspect our Nurseries.g brunning and son, plant nurseries victoria, st kilda, 19th century

Eastern Rosellas are multi-coloured medium-sized Australian parrots with distinctive white cheek patches. The Eastern Rosella is found throughout south-eastern Australia, from Queensland to Victoria, south-eastern South Australia, and eastern Tasmania. Despite their vibrant colours, Rosellas camouflage well into their surroundings when perching or when on the ground. The Eastern Rosella is found in open woodlands, grasslands, farmlands and remnant bushland. These birds are often found in urban habitats such as parks, gardens and golf courses. Early European settlers encountered the Eastern Rosella at Rose Hill, New South Wales, now Parramatta, and so they called it the Rosehill parakeet which became "Rosehiller", and eventually shortened to "rosella". 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 mature Eastern Rosella has a red head and breast, with a light green belly and distinctive white cheeks. The back is yellow-green with black mottling, the yellow-green turning green then to blue across the wings. The tail feathers are blue/black, with a red base on the underside. This specimen stands upon a wooden platform and has an identification tag tied around its leg.Label: 79/ Rose-hill Parakeet / See catalogue, page 22 taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, rosella, eastern rosella, rosehill parakeet, rose-hill parakeet

The Little Friarbird is a migrational bird, moving between northern Australia and the New South Wales/Victoria border in the spring and autumn times. It is primarily found near in forests and near water: rivers, wetlands. They eat nectar, bugs, fruit and seeds. They form monogamous pairs and nest close to water. They are not a threatened species. The Little Friarbird has a brown head, back, wings and tail. Its chest is light brown. Its legs, beak and face are dark grey. It has bright blue patches on its cheeks under the eyes. This specimen does not accurately match how the Little Friarbird looks because the specimen has lost clumps of feathers on its chest, neck and face. 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 Little Friarbird has blue patches on its cheeks, brown head, back and tail. The front and neck are a light brown. Its back is grey. It has serious pest damage to the back of its neck, which has no feathers. Above its eyes shows early signs of pest damage. The front of the bird has ruffled patches of feathers. It stands on a dark wooden stand. It has an identification tag hanging from its left leg. Label: 61a/ Blue faced Honey Eater / See catalogue page 19 taxidermy mount, taxidermy, burke museum, beechworth, little friarbird, australian bird

The Golden Whistler is native to coastal areas of Australia, from Queensland around to Southern Western Australia, including Tasmania. It usually lives in dense forested areas. The males have bright yellow plumage, whilst the females have only pale yellow plumage. The males and females work together to build the nest and raise chicks. They eat spiders and insects. The taxidermy specimen is not a good example of a Golden Whistler. Its feathers are very faded and ruffled. There looks to be some damage on the throat of the specimen. The Golden Whistler has usually vibrant colours, whilst this one is almost white. The colour markings on the bird indicate that it is male; the specimen should be a bright yellow. 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 Golden Whistler has a black head and stripe on chest, brown-grey wings and tail and white patches on throat and neck. The belly is a white-yellow, though significantly faded. Its feathers are quite ruffled and there is sign of damage to the throat. The specimen stands on a wooden stand and has an identification tag attached to its leg. Label: 24a / white throated Thickhead / See catalogue, page 11taxidermy mount, taxidermy, golden whistler, beechworth, burke museum, australian bird

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 Dollarbird is so-named because of the coin-shaped patches on the tips of their wings, which is clear when in flight. They have distinctive blue-green colouring on their backs and wings, and a bright blue throat. This species migrates to northern and eastern Australia for breeding, between the months of September and April. These birds migrate to New Guinea and nearby islands in the Winter, but can be found in Japan and India also. This species resides in open wooded areas, preferring hollow-bearing trees for nesting. They can be found spending most of their time perched on high branches in search of insects, and will often 'hawk' at dusk above the tree-tops, hovering on the wing for lengthy periods. This specimen is a good example of this species, however the distinctive coin-patches on the tips of the wings are partially hidden by the tuck of the wing. 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 adult Dollarbird has a brown body and head, blue-green back and wings. It has a distinctive bright blue or purple plumage around its throat. The tips of the wings are brown. The pale-blue coin shaped patches on the tips of the wings are just visible. This specimen stands upon a wooden platform and has an identification tag tied around its leg.Swing-tag: 96a / Australian Roller / Catalogue, page, 25. taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, dollarbird, australian birds, broad-billed roller

Grey Butcherbirds live in wooded habitats, including suburban areas, from the north of Western Australia, across different parts of the top of the country, through to mid-eastern Queensland, and then south along the eastern side of the country all the way down to Tasmania. They have a 'lovely, lilting song', and are fiercely protective of their nests and chicks, swooping at presumed attackers with enough strength to sometimes draw blood. Adult Grey Butcher Birds are typically a light grey colour with dark heads and white underparts. The brown colouring on this animal suggests that it is a young bird, with its grey adult feathers coming in. This bird appears thinner than most Grey Butcher Birds, but it is unclear if this is because of its age or because of inaccurate taxidermy. 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 specimen is particularly special in the Burke Museum Collection as it is part of a male/female pair (see Relationships). Many birds in the collection were originally donated in male/female pairs, but at least one specimen has been lost, leaving these as one of the few surviving sets.This Grey Butcher Bird (likely female, based on size) has a light grey and brown bill with a sharp hook. The majority of the feathers on its back and tail are an olive-brown colour. The feathers of its underparts, the patches on either side of its bill, and two stripes coming up either side of its neck are a yellow-white colour. There are some light grey feathers coming through in small patches, particularly across the back, the top of the underparts, and along the upper half of the legs. The eyes are brown. The bird stands on a brown, wooden perch with a circular bar, curved stand, and circular base. It has an identification tag tied around its right leg.18a. / Collared Crow. Shrike / See Catalogue; Page 10. /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, australian birds, butcher bird, butcherbird, grey butcher bird, collared crow-shrike, australian butcherbird, tasmanian butcherbird, tasmania, bird pair

Common Starlings are a noisy bird that typically inhabit urban and rural areas, especially those with short grass for easy foraging, though can occasionally be found in open forests or along costal areas. They are native to a wide area of Eurasia and the North of Africa, though have been introduced to North America, some nations in South America, Fiji, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. They live in large flocks that fly together in strong unison, and have a range of loud calls. Male Common Starlings usually have brown eyes, in contrast to the light coloured eyes of the taxidermy mount. Otherwise, the specimen bears a reasonable resemblance to a typical Common Starlings. 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 Common Starling is covered in black feathers that each have a metallic orange edge. This gives the appearance of small dots across its head and neck, larger dots along its underbelly and back, and lines along the outer feathers of the wings. Its beak is yellow and its eyes are a light blue with a black pupil. The bird is stretched tall with its head turned towards the left and slightly tilted right. The specimen stands on a brown, wooden perch with a circular bar, curved stand, and circular base. The left leg has a metal tag and a swing-tag tied around it and the right leg has two swing-tags tied around it, one of which is torn.Metal Tag: 4256 Swing-Tag 1: Sturnus vulga[illegible]is / male, adult / 25 January 1861 / near Leiden / Swing-Tag 2: Tris grey-brown / Feet black - brown / Bill brown / 4256 / Swing-Tag 3 (torn): ng / e Page 58taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, starling, european starling, common starling, european bird

Regent Honeyeaters get their name from their striking yellow-and-black plumage . Previously found across the south east of Australia far as Adelaide and Rockhampton in central Queensland, over the last thirty years their population has dwindled. Regent Honeyeaters are now only found between north-eastern Victoria and south-eastern Queensland, with only three known breeding grounds. Regent Honeyeaters typically live in eucalypt forests and woodlands. The yellow edging on the specimen's wings is duller than the bright yellow typical of most Regent Honeyeaters. The specimen is also stretched taller than most Regent Honeyeaters, resulting in a thinner neck and chest compared to the plumpness typically expected. 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.The Regent Honeyeater is a critically endangered Australian bird due to the clearing of their natural habitat, particularly around the Yellow Box-White Box-Blakely's Red Gum Woodlands in New South Wales. 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 Regent Honeyeater has a dark brown/black crown with a distinct orange patch under each red-coloured eye. Its back and upper chest are also a dark brown but with a white scalloped pattern. At the lower are of its belly, the white colour dominates the brown. Its wings and tail are brown edged with yellow. Its beak is a short, dark brown curl and its legs are brown. The bird stands on a brown, wooden perch with a circular bar, curved stand, and circular base. It has an identification tag tied around its right leg.57a. / Warty-faced Honey-eater ./ See Catalogue, Page 18 ./taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, regent honeyeater, honeyeater, warty-faced honeyeater, australian birds, endangered birds, endangered animals

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

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 Tawny Frogmouth, although often mistaken for an owl, is a nocturnal Australian bird of the Podargidae family that is more closely related to the nightjars. They are widespread in terms of distribution and can be found all across mainland Australia and Tasmania in a diverse variety of habitats from woodlands, forests and urban areas. Masters of camouflage, the Tawny Frogmouth sleeps during the day on tree branches in a stiff upward facing position (as with this specimen) to mimic broken tree branches, their feathers assist in this deception as the mottled grey and brown colours blend into the environment seamlessly. This specimen differs in colours from the usual appearance of a Tawny Frogmouth, as the beak is usually a olive-grey to blackish tone and the plumage is generally more dominantly grey all over 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 Tawny Frogmouth has a broad head and a creamy beige coloured wide triangular beak with a hooked tip. The plumage on the head and back of the bird is a combination of darker and rufous browns, mottled with streaks of cream and grey. The underside of the bird from the bottom of the beak to the tail tip is a lighter cream colour with streaks of rufous-brown. The feet are an orange-brown colour. This specimen is adopting the skyward looking pose associated with the species, mimicking dead tree branches.1a. / More-Park / See Catalogue, page 7 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, reynell eveleigh johns, bird, australian birds, tawny frogmouth, frogmouth

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

The Nankeen Kestrel, a small type of falcon, can be found all over Australia, usually in grassland or farmland areas. This falcon is carnivorous and hunts all manner of small prey including mice, lizards, insects, and other birds. When hunting, Nankeen Kestrels can be seen hovering in the air searching for prey. Nankeen Kestrels are generally monogamous, staying with the same breeding partner for multiple seasons. The Nankeen Kestrel is known for its reddish-brown feathers, spotted with a distinctive black pattern on its back, and have black-tipped wings and tail band, a stark contrast to its white chest. Females tend to be larger, and males will have a grey head and neck area. 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 Nankeen Kestrel is relatively small and slender. It is mostly reddish-brown, streaked with darker coloured areas. The tips of the wings and tail feathers are tipped in black. The chest is white with streaks of reddish-brown. The areas around its eyes, beak, and feet are a bright yellow. This specimen stands upon a wooden platform and has an identification tag tied around its leg.Swing-tag: 19. / Unnamed / Catalogue page, 5 /taxidermy mount, taxidermy, animalia, burke museum, beechworth, australian museum, skin, nankeen kestrel, falcon