TOTIPALMATE BIRDS, HERONS, STORKS 49 



THE FLAMINGOES 



As to the exact relationships of the Flamingoes a great many 

 opinions have been expressed. Some authorities regard them as 

 long-legged Geese, others as Storks with geese-like beaks ; and 

 probably the latter view is nearer the truth. In the external shape 

 of this beak the Flamingo is unique, the upper and lower jaws being 

 bent sharply downwards in the middle. But along their inner edges 

 is a curious fringe of horny plates, like that found in Ducks and 

 Geese. Hence the supposed relationship to these birds. 



The Flamingoes build very wonderful nests of mud, in swamps. 

 And it was generally supposed, by the older naturalists, that the bird, 

 when sitting on its eggs, sat astride the nest — an idea which is now 

 quite exploded. 



The European Flamingo (Plate IV. fig. i) occasionally strays 

 into Great Britain. In the salt-water lagoons of the south of France 

 and Spain it breeds in great numbers. 



About seven species of Flamingo are known, and no less than 

 four of these are American. 



