OUZELS. 5 2 7 



with which they imitate, like Parrots, short phrases, and even airs. 

 Their song is very melodious. 



The Minas have a bill analogous to that of the Orioles ; but their 

 general form and habits approximate more to the Starlings. They are 

 eminently social in their habits, searching for their food and roosting 

 in large flocks. Their natural disposition being peaceful, lively, and 

 confiding, they appear to prefer the vicinity of man's residence, and 

 the cultivated fields thai surround his dwelling. They frequently 

 attend upon flocks of sheep, to feed upon the insects that infest the 

 skins of these ruminants. In countries where locusts abound, they 

 are of great service to man by feeding upon them. 



The Isle of Bourbon was at one time so infested with Locusts 

 that it threatened to become uninhabitable. The idea was enter- 

 tained of introducing some Minas, and these birds multiplied so fast 

 that in a few years the pests had disappeared. Unfortunately, the 

 services of the Minas had to be paid for dearly, for they showed a 

 penchant for fruit, and made great havoc among the cherries, mul- 

 berries, &c. When insects became scarce they even attacked the 

 cereals and other crops. 



These birds readily habituate themselves to a cage, and in 

 a short time become as tame as Starlings. Like these birds, too, 

 they possess the talent of remembering and repeating words and 

 various cries. They inhabit Africa and Asia. In their migrations 

 they sometimes visit the southern countries of Europe ; but they are 

 rarely seen in France. 



The Honey-eaters (Melipkagida) are sprightly, graceful birds, pecu- 

 liar to Australia and the neighbouring islands. Their plumage is in 

 general brilliant, and ornamented with tufts and collars. The voice 

 of some species is very melodious, but little or nothing is known of 

 their habits. 



We now come to the Ring Ouzel (Turdus torquatus), which is 

 called in France merle rose, because it combines the shape of the 

 Blackbird with, particularly in the young birds, a red colouring over 

 the breast. 



They are migratory, and arrive in England about April, and 

 leave in early autumn. They are so shy, that, although frequently 

 seen, it is only for a moment. Their flight is remarkably swift, and 

 their voice is clear and melodious. 



The Dipper (Hydrobates cinclus, Fig. 238) has a straight and 

 slender bill ; large and stout toes, furnished with strong and hooked 

 claws ; and short wings and tail. The decidedly aquatic habits of 

 these birds form a curious exception to the rest of the Passerine 



