THE ANATOMY OF THE HUIA BIRD. 113 
for its insertion. The angle of the mandible (see Fig. 1, p. 647) is 
prolonged directly backwards for this purpose, in a manner unique 
among Passerine birds, but well seen in the Anatide: In Sturnus the 
angle of the mandible is slightly prolonged backwards for a similar 
per pose. 4 
In comparing the skulls of others of the Sturnide the following is 
a graduated series, based on the development of the digastric fossz in 
those birds I have had the opportunity of examining, commencing with 
Heteralocha and ending with Corvus. 
Heteralocha. Quiscalus. 
Sturnella. Cassicus. 
Sturnus. Acridotheres. 
Icterus. Pastor griseus. 
Pastor jalla. Molothrus. 
Gracupica. Corvus. 
The palates in most of these birds were not in a fit condition for 
study ; and, as will be clearly seen, geographical range has not been 
attended to. 
In the sternum, Heteralocha differs in no important point from 
_  Sturnus, except that the posterior notches tend to be converted into 
foramina, as observed by Mr. Eyton in his ‘‘ Osteologia Avium.” 
The following muscles were dissected, and found to agree precisely Page 647. 
with the corresponding ones in a Rook. 
Pectoralis major. — Sartorius. 
Pectoralis minor. Semimembranosus. 
Coraco-brachialis longus. Semitendinosus. 
Coraco-brachialis brevis. Adductor magnus. 
Tensor patagii longus. Biceps. 
Tensor patagii brevis. Femoro-caudal. 
Tn conclusion, it may be stated that the anatomy of Heteralocha 
shows clearly that it is truly Passerine, and not related to Upupa, as 
was previously supposed by most authors.* When examined more in 
detail, its relation to the Stwurnide is found to be very intimate, and 
its structure is clearly not closely allied to that of the Corvide. In 
its relation to Sturnus it seems to present an exaggeration of the 
peculiarities of that bird, which would place it at the head of the 
family. 
* Mr. G. R. Gray has placed Heteralocha in the Sturnide is his “ Hand-list of 
Birds.” 
