36 



nrr.RODTJCTION. 



PLUMAGE OF BIRDS. 



As in the popular study of birds, reference is most frequently 

 made to the plumage, as distinctive of the several species, we 

 have thought it well to explain somewhat fully its nature and 

 construction : and this we cannot do more lucidly and concisely 

 than in the words of MUDIE,* who illustrates his subject with the 

 following cut of the Garrulous Boiler (Coriacius garrula); be- 

 cause, although rare as a British bird, it is one in which the 

 different feathers are very distinctly marked, and the parts well 

 defined. The upper surface is here only represented ; but as the 

 back is the most interesting part, and the one most usually 

 noticed, this will be sufficient for our present purpose. 



* Mudie's British Birds, vol. i. 



