OF ORNITHOLOGY 45 



two known American species, nor shall we attempt it, as it 

 would simply be a repetition of the family characteristics al- 

 ready given above. 



Genus, Cerihia, The Brown Creeper and allj-. 



I can find no record of either sxih-genus or synonyui (of genus). 



FAMILY VI TROGLODYTIDAE THE WRENS 



Latin Troglodyta', Greek Troglodutai, a cave-dweHer. 



The typical Wren is a figure easily rejiresented to one's 

 mind, — to so characterize the family that it shall be instantly 

 distinguishable, upon sight, is quite another thing — tor it has 

 features of many other iamilies strongly engrafted into it, no- 

 ticeably those of the Titmice and the Thnisheti. Its special 

 peculiarities are : The uniting of the basal joint of the inner 

 and middle toes with part of the second joint of the outer toe. 

 The bill varies in size and shape, but is slender and without 

 terminal notch or basal bristles (rictal). Nostrils varied in 

 shape and size, but not concealed save by a sort of roof or 

 scale-like piece which lies above them. Wings short and like 

 a miniature Catbird's, with short 1st quill. The tail and the 

 tarsus vary with the species (forming genera) but, in general, 

 preserving a more or less family resemblance, and with scu- 

 tellse (either before or behind — sometimes both). 



The two sub-families are distinguished especiallv by the 

 shapes of their tails, their size, and their other markings. 



Sub-family ^r CAMPYLORHYNCHIN-ai Fan-tails 



Size large, being Ih to <S inches in length or over ; tail verv 

 broad at tip, and fan-shaped. 



Genera, Canvpylorhyachus, The Cactus Wrens and all}'. 

 Salpincte.s, The Rock Wrens and ally. 

 Catherpes, The White-throated Wrens and two allies. 



SrB-OEXEK.\, None. 



Sub-family /> TROGLODYTIN^ True "Wrens 



Appearance more like that of a tyj)ical 'rhm^li ; tail not tan- 



