Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London, London, Academic Press, periodicals, zoology., Two vividly detailed birds are depicted perched on branches amidst a natural setting. The bird on the left exhibits a sleek black plumage, complemented by a strikingly elegant beak and a slender body. Its posture suggests alertness as it gazes forward. The bird on the right presents a warm, reddish-brown coloration with distinctive features, including a rounded form and a shorter beak. This species balances gracefully on a branch, showcasing its vibrant plumage against the serene surroundings. Below the illustration, identifiers indicate the species as 'Vidua splenden' for the black bird and 'Pytelia wieneri' for the reddish-brown bird. The foliage adds a touch of nature, emphasizing the