THE CASSIQUES AND HANGNESTS 



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ing the ricebirds and cowbirds, the second the true hangnests, and the third the 

 troupials; the characteristics of which are pointed out below. 



The first subfamily (Cassidnce) is represented by several closely- 

 allied genera, among which the crested cassique (Ostinops decumanus) 

 of South America, and the yellow cassique (Cassicus persicus], which is likewise 

 South American, are well-known species. It will be unnecessary here to mention 



THE CRESTED CASSIQUE. 

 ( Two-fifths natural size. ) 



the characteristics by which these genera are severally distinguished from one an- 

 other, and it will suffice to say that the subfamily to which these belong is char- 

 acterized by the naked exposed nostrils, and the presence of a shield on the 

 forehead at the base of the beak. The crested cassique is characterized by the 

 small crest from which it takes its name; and while the general color of the upper 



