On the Ploceidse of the Ethiopian Region. 301 



whence it projects on the radial edge, about 0'4 in. in length. 

 In the accompanying figure (fig. 4) it is represented of the 



Fig. 4. 



V 



D.3 



End of right wing of Farrajacana, of the natural size. Sp, spur. D. 1, 

 D. 2, D. 3, digits. R, radius. Z7, ulna, w.c, metacarpals. 



natural size. Immediately in front of it is the first digit^ 

 which in this bird consists of a single phalanx much pointed 

 at the extremity. 



XXXV. — A Review of the Species of the Family Ploceidse of 

 the Ethiopian Region. By Captain G. E. Shelley, F.Z.S. 

 — Part I. Viduinse. 



(Plate IX.) 



The Ploceidse, or Weavers, most nearly approach the Frin- 

 gillidse, from which they may be readily separated by their 

 possessing an extra or bastard primary. From the Alaudidse, 

 which also have a bastard primary, they may be distinguished 

 by their feet, which, in the Ploceidse, are adapted for clinging 

 on to boughs, and in the Alaudidse for running on the ground. 

 On the other side of the Ploceidse I should place the Orio- 

 lidse and the Sturnidse. 



The present review has been undertaken in the hopes of 

 assisting in the comprehension of this intricate family, and 

 in forming a classification which I shall be able to follow 

 in future. I divide the Ploceidse into two subfamilies of 

 nearly equal proportions, the Viduinse and the Ploceinse ; 

 these two subfamilies are not very sharply marked, but 

 their members will, I trust, be easily recognized. 



The first subfamily, Viduinse, to which I shall confine my 

 observations at present, is distinguished by the bastard pri- 



