CLASS AVES : ORDER GALLING. 139 



characterized by a whirring sound. To aid them in scratch- 

 ing, the hind toe is elevated. Their food is first softened in 

 a crop> then mingled with the drink in a second expansion 

 of the gullet, and lastly ground in the gizzard.* To elude 



Fig. 233. 



\ 



Argus giganttus, Argus Pheasant. T V 



the sharp eye of their enemies, the Kaptores, they squat upon 

 the ground and lie quiet their mimicry corresponding to 

 the herbage they frequent. They are mostly polygamous, 



* This is lined with hard cartilage, and is so strong and muscular as to pulverize 

 glass and metals. The trituration of the food may be distinctly heard by standing 

 beside fowls on their roost at night. 



