THE RAZOR-BILLED CURASSOWS. 213 
cumstance is that when one of the hens commenced sitting 
the bird would drive her off the nest and take her place ; this 
I witnessed myself; the attempt at incubation, however, was 
not of long duration, for the Curassow destroyed the eggs, as I 
was informed afterwards by the owner. 
“‘T ascertained that the bird came from the Rio Pastaza ; 
and I believe it is not uncommon on that river and thoughout 
the dense forests on the north-west bank of the Amazons. 
“T have often heard this bird in the middle of the night near 
Nauta. 
“The Peruvians called it the ‘ Monte Pfyu.’ 
“The habits of this bird render it most difficult to obtain, 
from its living in holes or burrows in the ground. The Indians 
remain in the forest all night at the place where it is heard. I 
was informed by the Peruvians, whose word I could rely upon, 
that these birds come out at night, and ascend to the top 
branches of the lofty trees in search of food. The Indians are 
on the look-out, and shoot them just before sunrise as they are 
descending to return to their places of concealment, where they 
pass the day.” 
THE RAZOR-BILLED CURASSOWS. GENUS MITUA. 
Mitu, Lesson, Traité d’Orn. p. 485 (1831). 
Mitua, Strickl. Ann. Mag. N. H. vil. p. 36 (1841). 
Type, AZ. mitu (Linn.). 
Upper mandible much elevated, the height being greater than 
the width. 
Crest moderate or well-developed, not curled at the ex- 
tremity. 
Lores thickly feathered. 
Tail composed of twelve feathers. 
Leg (metatarsus) longer than the middle toe and claw. 
Sexes similar in plumage. 
