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PIPEA. 
Pipra. Linn., Lath., Gmel., Cuv., Dum. 
Mawnacus, Brisson. 
CHARACTER GENERICUS. 
Rostrum breve, validum, basi subtrigonum apice sub- 
incurvum. 
Pedes simplices, digitis tribus anticis*, uno postico. 
Ungues curvati sepius compressi. 
Cauda brevis. 
MANAKIN. 
GENERIC CHARACTER. 
Beak strong, with the base somewhat triangular, and the 
point slightly curved. 
Feet simple, with three toes before and one behind ; 
nails curved, and generally compressed: the middle and 
outer toes connected at their base. 
Tail short. 
The Manakins are remarkable for the gaiety of their 
colours, and are represented as very lively birds, seldom 
remaining long in the same attitude; their flight is short, 
but quick; they frequent woods; most of the species live in — 
societies, and many of them are said to sing delightfully. 
Some Pipre nidificate in hollows, and are said to corn- 
pose their nests of coarse materials. _ 
In the early editions of the Systema Natura, Linneus 
confounded Pipra with Parus (Titmouse), but in the twelfth 
edition he established it as a distinct genus. 
* Medio cum exteriore ad basin saltem connero. 
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