Page:Transactions and Proceedings of the New Zealand Institute - Volume 1 (2nd ed.).djvu/45

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Haast.—On the Measurements of Dinornis Bones.
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The metatarsus, of which, as before observed, we have only a fragment, is remarkably flat and broad, and does not narrow towards the middle like Din. giganteus. When restored according to the metatarsus belonging to No. 19, it would be about twenty-three inches long.

We obtained also parts of a specimen of No. 19, which have all the characteristics of this species, but somewhat smaller in all the dimensions.

The tibia is remarkably thick round the shaft, and presents altogether a very different appearance from that of Din. giganteus.

No. 20. Dinornis giganteus.

Bones were obtained belonging to six distinct birds of this species, one of the most perfect of which, when articulated, measured nine feet ten inches, and of which I send a photograph. The character of its bones is identical with those given by Professor Owen, except in some small details.

Length of bone. Girth of proximal end. Girth of shaft, thinnest part. Girth of distal end.
Tarsus metatarsus 18·9 in. 13·1 in. 6·8 in. 16·6 in.
Tibia 34·0 „ 21·0 „ 6·9 „ 17·5 „
Femur 16·5 „ 16·1 „ 8·7 „ 18·6 „

No. 21. Dinornis robustus, Owen.

The measurements given are those of the specimen articulated for the Canterbury Museum. Besides which we obtained a few bones belonging to another bird, very little inferior in size. Both correspond well with the figures and descriptions of Professor Owen.

Length of bone. Girth of proximal end. Girth of shaft, thinnest part. Girth of distal end.
Tarsus metatarsus 16·2 in. 12·6 in. 6·2 in. 15·2 in.
Tibia 30·4 „ 19·1 „ 6·8 „ 14·5 „
Femur 14·6 „ 15·5 „ 7·7 „ 17·5 „