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CUCKOOS AND KINGFISHERS 



THE KINGFISHER FAMILY 



Alcedinidae 



This family is widely and beautifully represented in the 

 Malay Archipelago, but only three species are found in the 

 United States. The Belted Kingfisher 1 is of almost uni- 

 versal distribution throughout North America, from the Arc- 



THE BELTED KINGFISHER. 



tic Barren Grounds to Panama and the West Indies. Go 

 where you will, in its season, where small fish abide, there 

 will you find it. It is dignified, handsome, alert and a true 

 sportsman. Its favorite perch is a dead limb over still water, 

 from which it can command a wide view, and swoop to the 

 surface of the water in five seconds of time. You will know 

 it by its bright-blue upper surface; high and saucy crest; long, 

 dagger-like beak; white under surface and broad belt of blue 



1 Cer'y-le al'cy-on. Length, about 12 inches. 



