556 PASSERINES. 



The characteristics of the Ouzels are a straight and slender bill ; 

 large and stout toes, furnished with strong and hooked claws ; and 

 short wings and tail. The decidedly aquatic habits of these birds 

 form a curious exception to the rest of the Passerine order. They 

 live constantly on the edge of the water, or in the water itself, 

 hunting for the insects which constitute their food. Although their 

 toes are not webbed, they may often be noticed diving and moving 

 about under water, by extending their wings and using them as 

 fins. They are frequently to be seen flying along streams, and 



Fig. 258. The Dipper, or Water Ouzel ( Cinclus aguaticus, Bechst.). ' 



catching the winged insects skimming over the surface of the 

 water. They live a solitary life, except during the pairing season. 

 Ouzels principally frequent the banks of mountain streams, espe- 

 cially in rocky and precipitous countries. 



The European species, called the Dipper, or Water Ouzel 

 (Hydrobata tinclus, Wood), Fig. 258, is met with in Great Britain, 

 France, the Alps, Pyrenees, and other mountain chains in the 

 South, West, and North of Europe. 



The SOLITARY or WOOD THRUSHES (Turdus mustillimes, Gin.), 

 Fig. 259, are distinguished from the other Dentirostral Passerines 

 by their long and slender tarsi. They are natives of America, 

 and, in the midst of its vast forests, busy themselves in hunt- 



