Dear Birdie Folk,
I am writing a play about a failed colonial enterprise at
Port Praslin,(otherwise known as New Breton) on the island of New Ireland in
New Guinea.
I have come across a most interesting reference to birdsong heard there in
the last century by an italian explorer- De Rimeny who said that there were
"crows which yelped like dogs."
Can anyone tell me more about these crows? I love my catbirds strange cries,
and apart from the dear old barking owl am unfamiliar with birds making
noises like yelping dogs.
Can some one tell me the bird truth about cats and dogs in New Guinea?
Would a Torresian Crow make a noise like a dog?
Can anyone tell me where I could get a tape of bird songs from New Ireland?
The settlers in the play travelled from Italy, suffered dreadfully at New
Breton, were rescued and brought to Australia as refuges in 1881, and
eventually settled near Lismore in northern NSW. I plan to use bird song
from all of these places as part of the musical score which underpins the play.
Any other bird lovers who are also into theatre who can help with suggestions
of sources for sounds would be much appreciated.
cheers,
Ollie Heathwood.
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