19 
LANIUS. 
Lantus, Ray, Linn., Lath., Cuv. 
CHARACTER GENERICUS. 
Rostrum rectiusculum lateraliter subcompressum, basi 
nudo; mandibula superiore apice curvata, denticulo 
utrinque instructa ; ore seepissime cillato. 
Pedes ambulatoru, digitis tribus anticis, uno postico ¢ 
digito externo ad basin cum intermedio connexo. 
SHRIKE. 
GENERIC CHARACTER. 
Beak strait, with the sides somewhat compressed, and 
the base naked ; the upper mandible curved towards the 
apex, and armed on each side with a little tooth; mouth 
generally ciliated, or bearded. 
Feet formed for walking, with three toes before, and one 
behind: the external toe connected with the middle one at 
the base. 
The Shrikes prey on small birds, and some of the species 
also on insects, which they transfix on thorns, devouring 
the bodies, and leaving the wings behind. They generally 
tear their food in pieces; but there are several instances, 
of mice having been found entire in the stomach of L. Ex- 
cubitor. | 
Their nests are simply constructed with fibres and moss; 
sometimes lined with softer materials. Their note is cla- 
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