256 AVOSBT. 



the continent, though not generally abundant, ex- 

 cept in the north of Holland, where M. Temminck 

 states it to he common. Out of Europe, we Lave 

 received it from Africa. By Mr. Gould it is stated to 

 he Indian, and Mr. Jerdan includes it in his Cata- 

 logue of Birds belonging to the Peninsula of India,* 

 stating it to range as far south as Madras, though it 

 does not appear to be any where frequent. The habits 

 of this bird are curious so far as they are known, 

 and when taken in reference to its station among 

 the Grallatores. They frequent the banks of rivers 

 or estuaries, and feed on aquatic life in various 

 forms ; and we have little doubt, that the structure of 

 the bill is adapted for seeking some peculiar kinds 

 of prey. They are said to wade about the shallow 

 pools or soft mud, but do not attempt to swim, or 

 to use their feet if placed beyond their depth, these 

 webbed members showing apparently a repetition of 

 form only, without the use of it being applied, ex- 

 cept in so far as it may assist as a support in soft or 

 oozy ground. In their breeding they resemble the 

 Scolopacidce^ being marsh birds, and flying around 

 clamorously, with the legs outstretched or dangling, 

 as seen in many of the Totani during the season of 

 incubation. 



The length of a specimen of the European Avoset 

 from Africa, now before us, to the end of the tail, 

 is eighteen inches, and to the extremity of the 

 stretched-out legs twenty- one and a-half; the whole 

 colouring is a marked aud distinct variegation of 

 * Jordan, p. 210. 



