ORDER THIRD. 



INSECTIVOROUS BIRDS. 



In these the bill is either short, or of moderate length, 

 straight, rounded, and weakly edged or pointed like an 

 awl. The upper mandible is curved and notched to- 

 wards the point, most commonly provided at its base with 

 stiff hairs, directed forwards. The feet have 3 of the 

 toes before, and one behind, all on the same level. The 

 outer united to the middle toe at its base as far as to the 

 first articulation. 



The voice of these birds is often agreeable and harmo- 

 nious : all of them feed principally upon insects, particu- 

 larly during the time of reproduction ; berries also afford 

 aliment to many of the species, but they are ordinarily 

 only an accessory nourishment. They have often sever- 

 al broods in the year, and dwell in the woods and thickets, 

 or among reeds and marshes, where they nest in single 

 pairs. 



Family — CANORI. 



With the bill short or moderate, the tail of 12 feathers. — They 

 feed on insects, at large ; excel in musical powers ; and their flesh 

 is palatable. 



