Development and Care of the Young 177 



by the early Egyptians more than 4000 years ago, and was de- 

 picted by their artists on the walls of many tombs at Sakkara 

 and elsewhere in Egypt. Moreover, their birds are usually 



Fig. 108. Female Kingbird astride nest with drooping half-spread wings, shielding 

 her brood from the hot sun. Notice the characteristic attitude of the young. 



represented as resting on the whole shank or proper foot, as is 

 often the case (Fig. 109). 



After taking a bath, it is the custom of many species, like 

 Pelicans, waders, and birds of prey, to spread in a similar man- 

 ner to dry off, as may be seen in any zoological garden, but 

 many are inordinately fond of the sun-bath alone, and the hotter 

 the day the better they seem to enjoy it. I have seen the re- 

 markable Shoebill Crane or Whale -headed Stork in the gardens 



