COLIES. 



203 



than in ordinary birds. They are rarely observed on the ground, 

 the pecuHar formation of their feet not permitting them to walk 

 with ease. They build their nests in society, closely packed 

 together on the same branch. The nest is composed of flexible 

 twigs, and lined with feathers. Their eggs are from four to six 

 in number. 



The "White-backed Coly {Coitus leuconotiis) is found in Africa. It is a 

 pretty bird, and, as it traverses tlie branches, has a peculiarly elegant appear- 



JlG 108 —The \\ HiTE BACKED CoL\ {Colms hncotwtits). 



ance, its long tail seeming to balance the body in the extraordinary and varied 

 attitudes it assumes ; and its highly moveable crest being continually raised 

 and depressed, gives it a very spirited aspect. It is gregarious, living in little 

 companies of four or five in number, and is continually running and jumping 

 from bough to bough in search of its food, which consists of fruit and buds. 

 The grasp of its feet is very powerful, as much so as that of the parrot, so that 



