2 8 STORIES ABOUT TITDS. 



The secretary bird is always on the look-out for this natural enemy of 

 man. In the picture he is engaged in a fierce battle with a serpent. The 

 serpent is, as you see, in a rage. At first all its attempts were directed to 

 getting back to its hole, but its enemy was more than a match for it. Which- 

 ever way it turned the bird hopped just in its path, and stood with flashing 

 eyes and outspread wings. Then the serpent was fairly roused. It raised 

 itself up, swelled out its dreadful neck, and darted out its fangs. For a moment 

 the bird gave way a little, and seemed as if considering what to do. 



But his courage soon revived. He was resolved not to be cheated of his 

 prey, so he covered himself with one wing as with a shield, and struck violently 

 at the serpent with the other. The serpent was knocked down by the blow, 

 and every time it attempted to rise, the bird struck at it again. At last the 

 snake could rise no more, and then the bird killed it by striking its head 

 with his beak. 



These kind of battles are often taking place, and the bird is much admired 

 for his courage. He is considered a most valuable member of society, and 

 Jiis family have been invited over to the plantations in the West Indies. 

 Here they arc highly esteemed, and no one ever thinks of harming them. 

 The plantations abound in snakes, and their number is thinned by the intro- 

 duction of these their inveterate enemies. 



When the snake is small enough, the bird snaps it up, and carries it off to 

 the top of a tree. Then he lets it drop, and follows it, as it descends, Avith 

 much adroitness, so as to be ready to strike it when it lies stunned on the 

 ground. He does not always strike with his wing, but with the sole of his 

 foot. He always kills his prey before he devours it. 



Serpents are not his only food, for he preys upon lizards and tortoises and 

 insects. The hot unwholesome marsh is full of insects, and the secretary 

 bird thins their number; so that every way he is useful. 



He and his partner make a large nest, in which two eggs are laid. He 

 does not choose his partner without fighting a great many battles. Yet he 

 has not at all a fierce temper, but rather otherwise ; and after the choice has 

 been made there are no more quarrels. 



