OF THE BEITISH ISLANDS. 91 



Family QRUID^E. The Cranes. 



The Cranes form by far the largest and most widely dispersed family in the 

 present order. They are characterised by having the sternum perforated anteriorly 

 to receive the convolutions of the trachea. The rectrices are twelve in number, 

 the wings are long and ample, the inner secondaries (which are rather longer 

 than the primaries) generally composed of drooping plumes which partially 

 conceal the tail. The legs are long, the hallux short, and considerably elevated 

 above the plane of the rest of the toes. The bill is stout, about as long as the 

 head ; the nostrils are enclosed by a membrane behind, and the nasal groove 

 extends more than half the length of the upper mandible. Dr. Sharpe (Cat. 

 B. Brit. Mus.) has divided the nineteen known species of Cranes into no less 

 than nine genera : a most arbitrary and needless course, when we find that six 

 of these contain but a single species, and two others three each ! 



Genus GRUS, or Cranes. 



Type, GRUS CINEEEA. 



Grus, of Pallas (1707). The birds comprising the present genus and the 

 only one in the family are separated by the same characteristics as those that 

 define the GRUIDJE from surrounding groups. It is true this small and compact 

 family has been subdivided into numerous genera, but the characters upon which 

 they are based do not appear to me to be of sufficient importance and value. By 

 placing all the known species therefore in one genus, the number of species 

 is the same as that already given in the remarks on the family. Cosmo- 

 politan continentally, with the exception of the Neotropical region. Two species 

 are accidental visitors to the British Islands. 



The Cranes are dwellers on large plains and in swamps, and are remarkable 

 for their extended migrations. Their flight is powerful and sustained. Their 

 notes are loud and trumpet-like. They make their nests on the ground in 

 swamps, and their eggs are usually two, but sometimes three in number, and 

 handsomely spotted. Their food consists of grain, seeds, shoots of herbage, 

 lizards, snakes and small animals. They are monogamous. 



