THE OYVSTER-CATCHERS. 345 
darker brown than the back, which is traversed by numerous light 
pencillings, interspersed by diminutive jet-coloured spots. Its eyes 
are remarkable for their look of intelligence and vivacity. They are 
most easily tamed, and appear to possess a great antipathy to strife, 
Fig. 137.—Cariama. 
for it will at once separate any of the poultry who, from jealousy or 
other causes, quarrel with each other. Its nest is generally upon a 
low bush, very rudely constructed, in which they deposit two eggs, 
which are pure white. 
The Oyster-catchers (Zematopus) are characterised by a long, 
pointed, and powerful bill, which they use like a pair of pincers for 
