OTIS. BUSTARD. 29 



and neck, ovate on the body. Wings long, broad, rather 

 pointed ; the third quill longest, the second little shorter, the 

 first as long as the fifth ; the outer quills narrowed toward 

 the end. Tail short, of more than twelve feathers. 



It is difficult to decide as to the precise position of the 

 Bustards. Some authors refer them to the Rasores, others 

 to the Grallatores ; and it is obvious enough that in some 

 points they resemble both groups. Their internal structure 

 alone can settle the question ; and as I have had no oppor- 

 tunity of making myself acquainted with it, I must leave the 

 Bustards as I have found them. 



Although furnished with large wings, these birds on 

 ordinary occasions make little use of them ; yet their flight 

 is strong and sustained. They run Avith great speed, squat 

 on the ground to avoid their enemies ; feed on vegetable 

 substances, worms, and insects ; form a slight and rude nest 

 among the herbage, and lay from three to five or more 

 spotted eggs. 



