Introduction. xi 



length ; wings, long ; plumage, olive-green above, 

 white beneath ; toes, two in front, and two 

 behind. 



FAMILY PICID^E. The Woodpeckers. The 

 Woodpeckers have a strong, straight bill ; tongue, 

 long ; tail feathers, pointed and shafted ; toes, 

 two in front, and two behind ; wings, short and 

 rounded. 



ORDER III. INSESSORES or PERCHERS. 



This Order embraces a greater number of 

 species than any other, and comprehends all 

 those birds which live habitually among trees, 

 with the exception of birds of prey and climbing 

 birds. All true perching birds have three toes 

 before, and one behind. 



FAMILY HIRUNDINID^E. The 

 The Swallows have a short, triangular bill ; large 

 mouth ; wings, long ; tail, more or less forked ; 

 legs, short and delicate ; toes, three in front, and 

 one behind ; plumage, bright metallic blue above, 

 white or reddish beneath. 



FAMILY CAPRIMULGID^L. The Goatsuckers. 

 The three members of this Family that visit 



