THE ALLIES OF THE PIGEON: AVES 375 



rough nest in the case of the cassowary. The ostrich is 

 the best known of the group, largely on account of the 

 beautiful wing and tail plumes, which have been used for 

 ornaments from very early times. Ostriches are now raised 

 for the sake of the plumes on " farms " in California and 

 South Africa. 



Diving Birds. The group Pygop'odes (Gr. pyge, the rump ; 

 pous (pod), foot) includes various species of water-birds with 



FIG. 193. Photograph of Tern on Nest 



webbed or lobed toes. Their scientific name refers to the 

 fact that the legs are placed very far back, so that when 

 standing an erect position is assumed. The tail is very short. 

 The beak is sharp and pointed and fitted for spearing fishes, 

 which constitute a large part of their food. They are expert 

 divers and can swim under water with only the tip of the bill 

 exposed. The nest is generally nothing more than a floating 

 mass of decaying vegetation, attached perhaps to some reeds 

 in shallow water. Our northern lakes and ponds are often 

 visited by the loon, a characteristic diving bird. 



