162



Mr. W. P. Pycraft,



recorded. These coverts are said to have a proximal overlap,

when the free edge of the covert is that turned towards the body

in the outstretched wing, and a distal overlap when the edge is

turned away from the body. The major coverts always have a

distal overlap. There is never more than one row of major, or

median coverts, there may be several rows of minor coverts, or

these may be wanting. The terms “ greater,” “ middle,” and

“lesser” coverts are vague, and should be avoided.


The presence of claws in the wing should also be looked

for. One is commonly found on the thumb.


The under surface of the wing often presents features

worthy of record. Such as the length and number of rows

of minor coverts, and the pattern of the long “ axillary ” feathers,

such as occur in the Snipe for example.


After the wing, the tail should be described, record being

made of the number and shape of the tail feathers, and the

presence or absence of an oil gland, and whether this is tufted

or not.


Much helpful information would be gained if a practice

were made of recording the extent, nature, and colour of the

downy underclothing when this exists. For example, the

Bustards have a vivid pink down, which fades soon after death.

Other birds develop tufts of a remarkable form of down known

as “ powder-down.” This may form huge patches on the breast

and thighs, as in Herons and Bitterns, or be scattered over the

body as in certain Hawks and Parrots.


Finally, the horny parts must be described. These in¬

clude the sheaths of the beak, and the scaly envelope of the feet.

The beak sheath is often compound, that is, formed of several

distinct elements (Plate III). More often these sheaths—for

the upper and lower jaws—are each composed of a single piece,

and are then said to be “ simple.” They may be deeply

grooved, or their edges may be toothed as in Shrikes or

birds of prey, or serrated as in Gannets or Mergansers. The

nature of these “ teeth ” aud serration should be accurately

described. The form of the “ file ” on the under surface of the

tip of the Parrot’s beak is a character of some importance.



