I 3 2 EVOLUTION IN THE PAST 



radius). Descendants of the Cretaceous dunlin-like birds 

 were now in some force (Tringa) ; and birds of a kingfisher 

 type were making their appearance (Halcyornis). In far- 

 southern seas some relatives of the Diver-grebes of the last 

 Period, specialised as penguins, were hobbling about, and busy 

 among the fishes (Pal&eudyptes). 



The feathery tribes were not living in a state of universal 

 harmony. Various falcony forms descended from the same 

 stock as the flamingoes and herons were now on the wing. 

 Some of these were blends of falcons and vultures (Lithornis), 

 and a few were true falcons (Falco). Other birds of prey 

 were compounds of eagles, buzzards, and ospreys (PalcBo- 

 circus). Some primitive forms of owls were also making 

 things uncomfortable (Bubo). Among the birds of milder 

 manners, some apparently were godwits (Limosa) relations 

 of the dunlin-like birds. Hornbills (Cryptornis), woodpeckers 

 (Uintornis), and swifts (jEgialornis) all distant relatives of 

 the owls were also in being. Ancestors of modern game 

 birds were coming into view. Some were quail and caper- 

 caillie of primitive character (Coturnix, Tetrad) ; others were 

 partridges somewhat obscured by strong guinea-fowl and 

 turkey features (Taoperdix). Numerous " sparrow-shaped " 

 birds (Passeriformes) such as nuthatches (Sitta), and starlings 

 (Laurillardia) were enlivening the woodlands with their chirps 

 and chatterings. And sounds more melodious than these may 

 have been heard, for remains of larks and warblers have also 

 been brought to light (Protornis, Palcegithalus). 



VEGETATION The sylvan scenes are met with after a break in their 

 history ; but no changes, comparable with those in animal 

 development, had taken place in the interval. The new 

 vegetation had established itself far and wide hi the Creta- 

 ceous Period, and on many scenes had gained a predominance 

 long held by cycads and conifers. Since then it had carried 

 its conquests further ; and in its exuberance had become 

 enriched with many new varieties and species. 



Grand must have been the verdant display in some regions. 

 In the neighbourhood of Liege, for instance, early Eocene 

 plant remains have been found in abundance. Here oaks 

 of many species, and chestnuts were luxuriating in forest 



