284 VERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY 



kick that would compare favorably with that of a mule. They also 

 bite and peck with the strong beak, but the feet are their main de- 

 pendence. In captivity they are quite tractable and they are 

 extensively cultivated on farms for the sake of their valuable 

 plumage. 



Two stupid traits are popularly attributed to the ostrich: first, that 

 he hides his head in the sand in order to conceal himself from his 

 enemies; second, that he eats tin cans, railroad spikes, and similar 

 non-nutritious articles. The first is a slander on this alert, wary, 

 and decidedly intelligent creature; for competent observers report 

 exactly the opposite behaviour, in that when hiding it crouches low 

 among the grasses or underbrush and only raises the top of the head 

 and eyes above the shelter. The second is only partially true, and 

 there is method even in this apparent show of madness; for when the 

 bird is in captivity it sometimes is forced to use various unusual 

 articles for abrasive purposes, in lieu of gravel or more suitable 

 gizzard-filling material. 



The Rheas (Rhei formes) . The rheas are much like the ostriches 

 in general appearance and in habits, but are smaller and less highly 

 specialized for running. They have three toes furnished with rather 

 heavy, but typical, claws. The wings are better developed and the 

 feathers less plume-like than in the ostrich. The head, neck, and 

 thighs are feathered. The rheas are popularly confused with the os- 

 trich; in fact Rhea americana (Fig. 154, A) is called the " American 

 ostrich." This species lives upon the pampas of Argentine, southern 

 Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. They are swift runners, with a habit of 

 doubling upon their pursuers and occasionally lying down in the long 

 grass with only the head protruding. Often they lie in this position 

 until almost trodden upon, apparently relying implicitly on the 

 efficacy of their concealment. When running at full speed they 

 materially aid their progress by vigorously flapping their wings. 

 Mating and nesting habits are almost identical with those of the 

 ostrich. 



The Emeus and Cassowaries (Casuariiformes). These large birds 

 are characterized by: rudimentary wings; long, limp, bifurcated con- 

 tour feathers; no plumes; three toes with typical claws; legs propor- 

 tionately shorter than in the two preceding families. 



There are several species of cassowaries (Fig. 154, C), native to 

 Australia and to several islands of the Malay Archipelago. They 



