BIUDS 



OF 



EASTERN NORTH AMERICA 



SUB-CLASS I. LAND BIRDS. 



TlBIA AND FIBULA, FREE; NOT INCLOSED WITHIN TUB SKIN OF THE BODY. FEET, NEVER 

 WHOLLY PALMATE. 



Tins sub-class embraces all birds that live upon the land, comprising by far tho great- 

 er number of species. Among them are found the most unique and widely diversified 

 forms. The wingless, ill-formed Apteryx, the majestic, high-soaring Eagle, the disgust- 

 ing Vulture, the beautiful-plumaged Paradise Birds, the tiny, graceful Humming Birds, 

 the gigantic Ostrich; in short, all the countless feathered tribes whose presence enlivens 

 and beautifies woodland, plain, and shore, can claim relationship under this head. 



ORDER I. INSESSORES. PERCHING BIRDS. 



Base of hind toe, on a level with the anterior toes. Tibia, usually feathered to the tarsal 

 joint. 



Tho sternum has two moderate marginal indentations which equal in depth, at least, 

 one fourth the length of the top of the keel. The keel is also moderate, although exceed- 

 ing in height, at least, one half the width of the sternum, but it is never as high as the 

 sternum is l>n>ad. Under this order are classed all birds that find their homes in trees and 

 shrubs, although many move with ease upon the ground. 



SECTION I. OSCINES. SINGING BIEDS. 



Inferior larynx, provided with a peculiar, muscular apparatus for singing. The sterno- 

 trachealis has its origin below the broncho-trachealis. 



On account of the complicated larynx, usually provided with five pairs of muscles, the 

 species embraced in this order are capable of producing a variety of modulated and harmo- 

 nious notes. It is to them that we owe those songs, full of liquid melody, which add so 

 much to the beauty of our sylvan retreats. 



FAMILY I. TURDID^E. THE THRUSHES. 



Marginal indentations of sternum, exceeding in depth the hcir/ht of the keel. Width of sternum, not more than half the 

 length of the keel. Hind toe, less than twice the lenyth of the anterior toes. 



