THE 



MYOLOGY OF THE RAVEN 



{Coi^viis coixix svnuatus). 



INTRODUCTION. 



In all highly specialized birds, and more particularly 

 in those possessing great power of flight, such as the 

 Oscines, the Haptoi'es, and many of the Anseres, the 

 various muscles are chiefly noted for their density, 

 their dark carmine colour, and the distinctness between 

 the fleshy portion and the tendinous. These char- 

 acteristics are best seen in those groups of muscles which 

 are brought into play during flight. As a rule, through- 

 out the system, the tendons are very firm, dense, and of 

 a bright pearly white colour ; and these, in the limbs 

 especially, show a marked tendency to ossify. 



Having obtained a fine adult Eaven (or Crow), 

 showing but few or slight injuries incident to its cap- 

 ture, and having comjdeteli/ and carefully plucked 

 the specimen, it is to be immersed in 80 per cent, 

 alcohol for at least forty-eight hours. The student 

 then must supply himself with a large delf platter, for 

 a dissecting tray ; a grooved director, a set of hooks 

 and chain, a pair of wide-aperture spring forceps, and 

 finally, three or four suitable scalpels of various sizes. 

 Everything being in readiness, the first object of 



