FACAMARS, 453 
but they are incapable of climbing. The weakness of their beaks 
does not permit of their boring trees; therefore they seek their 
nourishment upon the ground, principally amongst the ant-hills. They 
lead a solitary existence, which they only relinquish at pairing-time. 
They possess a characteristic confidence, never in the least avoiding 
the presence of man, and become very familiar in captivity. They 
build in natural holes in trees, or in those hollowed by Woodpeckers. 
hy 
“A \ K 
\ \ WK ZN 
Fig. 179.—Paradise Jacamar. 
Their plumage is pleasing, and their size is about that of the Lark. 
They inhabit all the old continent. 
JACAMARS. 
Jacamars inhabit equatorial America. They are characterised by 
long and pointed beaks, short tarsi, and short or obtuse wings. They 
have three or four toes, according to the species. Their habits are 
little known ; but it is certain that they live isolated or in pairs, that 
they are stupid, move but little, and rarely depart from the neighbour- 
hood where they have chosen their dwelling. All species do not 
frequent similar localities—as some like thick woods, others prefer 
