220 LECTURE VI. 



In New Holland is a species of Cassowary 

 of rather superior size to the Indian Casso- 

 wary, of a brown colour, destitute of a horny 

 crest, and in its whole appearance bearing a 

 nearer resemblance to the Ostrich. It has been 

 described under the name of Casuarius Australia. 



The genus Otis or Bustard is characterized 

 by a slightly convex and rather pointed bill, very 

 open nostrils, sharp divided tongue, and long 

 legs, naked above the knee, with feet formed for 

 running, having three toes, all directed forwards. 

 The chief Species is a European Bird, and is 

 occasionally seen in our own country ; some- 

 times in small flocks or groups, and sometimes 

 singly. It chiefly frequents large open plains, 

 is a very large bird, with long neck and legs, and 

 of a yellowish brown colour, elegantly varied 

 with numerous black isa transverse streaks and bars. 

 The male bird has a membranaceous sack or pouch 

 within tin.' neck, for the purpose of holding water; 

 this pouch is capable of containing several pints, 

 but it is remarkable that the fnnale bird is des- 

 titute of a similar apparatus. The general food 

 of the bustard is supposed to be of a vegetable 

 nature, but it also feeds on worms and in.-- 



