N. GYLDENSTOLPE, HEEL-PADS IN CERTAIN BIRDS. 7 



all the species of Barbets examined, the largest and most 

 developed tubercles are situated on the posterior half of 

 the pad. 



Fam. Indicatoridae. 



Indicator indicator Gm. 



In a specimen of this species the whole of the metatarsal 

 joint is covered with a thick layer of scales forming regular 

 papillse. The pad, which measures about 7 mm in length 

 and 4 mm at the broadest part (slightly above the middle) 

 is much narrowed posteriorly. The papillae which are either 

 irregular or rounded are devoid of any pointed cusps, 

 though such may have occurred at an earlier age. They are 

 placed in more or less regular rows, the middle ones of which 

 contain the smallest papillse. 



Fig. 9. 



Indicator major Steph. Lateral 

 view of left tarsus. "/i. 



Fig. 10. 



Indicator major Steph. 



Left tar3U3. Vi- 



Indicator major Steph. 



The pads found in this species are exactly similar in 

 shape and general appearance to those of the former species. 



In the last twenty years there has been described several 

 new forms of Indicator which have caused much controversy 

 amon^ the ornithologists, some considering these new forms 

 as being only youngs of hitherto known forms. This contro- 

 versy may perhaps now be settled by reexamining the type 

 specimens. If they have, or are still showing traces of having 

 had any heel-pads they are certainly only young birds. 



