216 HORNBILL. 



foreign birds and their habits but little kndwn. Of 

 the last, namely, the Hornbills (Buceros), living 

 specimens are occasionally taken; and in the Spring 

 of 1833, one was procured for the Zoological Gar- 

 dens, in the Regent's Park, London, but notwith- 

 standing every attention, it did not live long. Of 

 the seemingly deformed and monstrous bills of these 

 birds, we have already spoken. 



Of their use, we are still much in the dark, but 

 if. as may be presumed, tbe horny substance is fur- 

 nished with highly sensible nerves, for the purpose 

 of smelling or feeling, we can more easily account 



for their instinctive discovery of snakes, on the eggs 

 of which, as well as insects and fish, they feed. On 

 passing over a spot where the snake has concealed 

 itself, though many feet under ground, the Hornbill 

 immediately begins digging, till it has uncovered it. 

 They are found in Africa, but even there seem to be 

 scarce, and are highly prized; their flesh being used 

 as a remedy in many disorders, being placed hot to 

 the part affected. 



