324 



BIRDS. 



their wide mouths produces a peculiar humming noise. They have been ac- 

 cused of sucking goats, whence their name ; but this is an unfounded calumny 

 that, perhaps, had its origin from the circumstance of their frequenting helds 

 where goats and sheep are herded, in pursuit of the insects that are kttracte 

 by their presence. 



TRIBE III. CONIROSTRES.* 



All the birds of this tribe have a strong beak, more or less 

 conical in its shape, and without a notch. They live more ex- 

 clusively upon grain, in proportion to the strength and thickness 

 of their bills. The principal genera are the Starlings, the Larks, 

 the Titmice, the Finches, the Sparrows, the Crossbills, the Crows, 

 and the Birds of Paradise. 





FIG. 351. SK.Y-LAKK. 



The Larks (Alaudd) have a straight, short beak ; their head is small, and 

 furnished with a little crest of feathers ; the nail of the hinder toe is straight, 

 and much larger than that of any of the other toes. The conformation of 

 their claws does not allow these birds to alight on trees ; but it is useful to them 

 on the ground, where they generally dwell, feeding on grasses, tender plants, 

 insects, and larva;. They also have 'the habit of dusting themselves by flutter- 

 ing on the ground. The lark is common throughout Europe. _ During the 

 summer these birds prefer dry elevated situations, and delight in soaring to 

 great heights in the air, singing in a strong melodious voice. In winter 

 they assemble in large numbers on the level country in search of food. They 

 are often kept in cages, and become reconciled to captivity. Their flesh is 

 esteemed a delicacy. _ 



* Conus, a cone; rostrum, a beak : with conical beaks. 



