I have been told by several sportsmen that they have heard of such an occurrence; and I have always been impressed with the belief that the greasy, oily, powder-down patches might become luminous under certain conditions, but never until the present year have been able to find reliable personal testimony. The following statement, prepared for me by Mr. Isaac W. Worrall of Philadelphia, shows that the phosphorescence of birds is a fact. To obtain a full account of Mr. Worrall’s observations, I made out a list of questions, which he has kindly answered; and which, from the great interest connected with the occurrence, are given in full:-- “Upon what birds did you observe the luminosity?” “The night heron (_Nyctiardea grisea_) and blue crane (_Ardea cærulea_).” “What was the situation of the light or lights?” “One on the breast, and one on each side of the hips, between the hips and the tail.” “Upon how many birds did you observe the light?” “Upon four different birds, including the one I shot.” “How far could you see the lights in the living bird?” “I saw the light plainly at a distance of about fifty yards.” “Did you notice the reflection of the light upon the water?” “No.” “Was the light brilliant enough to make a reflection?” “Before I fired, the light appeared equivalent to two candles.” “Where was the bird you shot when first observed?” “Standing in about six inches of water.” “Give a practical example of its brilliancy.” “When I aimed, I considered it equal to the light of a hand-lamp or lantern, and could see my gun-sight quite plainly against it.” “Could you have read by the light as it appeared when you took the bird from the water?” “I have read small print with a dimmer light than that upon the bird immediately after it was shot.” “Do you think the bird can conceal or display its light at will?” “I know the bird has full control of the light. I saw it open and shut it four times when I was crawling towards it. I stopped when it put out the light, and advanced when it was displayed again.” (The bird may have turned.--AUTHOR.) “What was the state of the weather when you shot the bird?” “A clear, dark night in spring.” (Kansas.) “Did you notice the sex of the bird?” “No.” “How long did the light last after you shot the bird?” “The light faded as the bird died, disappearing at death.” “Did you notice any odor while the light was apparent?” “No.” “Did the luminous matter come off upon your hands?” “I did not touch it.” “Was the light a steady glow?” “It lasted about as long as I could count twenty at moderate speed.” “What was the color of the light?” “It reminded me of phosphorescent wood, and was whitish.” * * * * *