PAEBID^. 



329 



Okavango, Teoughe, and Botletle, and also at Lake 

 N garni. 



It is found in pairs or in small flocks, frequenting 

 stagnant pools or still waters on the sides of lakes and 

 rivers, where it runs about on the decayed semifloating 

 herbage, and also on the large-leaved lotus plants, which 

 generally abound in such situations — a feat which it 

 accomplishes without sinking, by means of its long and 

 wide-spreading toes. 



These birds are of a lively disposition, and frequently 

 chase one another about. When they have not been 

 previously disturbed they are generally easy to approach ; 

 and their vivacious habits, elegant forms, and handsome 

 colouring add much to the interest of the scene. 



Measurements of two males : — 



Entire length . . 



Length of folded vdn^ 

 „ tarsus 

 „ middle toe 

 ,, tail . . 

 bill . . 



in. lin. in. lin. 



9 2 10 6 



5 6 5 11 



2 4 2 6 



2 6 2 1 



1 lOi 2 1 



13 14 



Measurements of two females : — 



