1724 



THE PI CART AN BIRDS 



color of the plumage of the upper parts is in most cases bronzy or metallic green. 

 The green jacamar (Galbula viridis} is the best-known species of the family, and 

 is found all over Guiana as far as the Lower Amazons to the south, and as. 

 Venezuela to the westward. It is of a coppery-green color, with a bluish sheen on 

 the crown; the under surface being chestnut; the throat white, followed by a band 

 of bright green across the breast, and the outer tail feathers blackish. An allied 

 species is the red-tailed jacamar (G. ruftcauda), which closely resembles the forego- 

 ing, but is distinguished by its rufous outer tail feathers. It is an inhabitant of the 

 same part of South America as the first, but does not extend into Amazonia, being 

 found, however, further to the west, viz., in Colombia. In Trinidad, Mr. F. M. 



GREEN JACAMAR. 

 (Two-thirds natural size.) 



Chapman says that it is not uncommon at and near the borders of the forests. "Its 

 appearance, at first sight, would seem to support its reputation for stupidity, but 

 closer observation will, I think, induce one to believe that these birds are by no 

 means so stupid as they have been said to be. They are the most expert flycatchers 

 I have ever seen, and this in spite of the fact that the shape of the bill would seem 

 better to fit them for almost any other mode of existence. Sitting all drawn in on a 

 dead limb, generally near the ground, they may be compared to a set spring. Their 

 watchfulness permits no insect to pass in safety. They maintain a constant look- 

 out, turning the head quickly from side to side, above, or even halfway round. 



