THE TANTALUS. 353 



is known, except that their habits and food are similar 

 to those of the preceding genera. The beak is the pro- 

 minent distinguishing feature; the edges of which instead 

 of closing throughout, meet only at the extremities. 



The sixth and last genus is that of the Tantalus, all 

 foreigners inhabiting Asia, Africa, America, and Australia. 

 They have feet, nostrils, and beaks, like those of Storks, 

 but differ from them in the form of the bill, the back of 

 which is rounded, and its point curved towards the 

 bottom. They frequent marshy spots, living on reptiles 

 and fish. When their appetite is satisfied they retire to 

 high trees, where they remain in an erect attitude, the 

 bill resting on the breast. They are simple birds, and 

 may be easily shot. 



