400 CLASS AYES. 



The second and smaller division of the Passeres 

 comprehends those in which the external toe, almost 

 as long as the middle, is united thereto as far as the 

 last articulation j we make but one group of them. 



The Syndactyli, 



Long since divided into five genera, which we 

 preserve. 



The Bee-Eaters, (Merops,) 



With elongated bill, triangular at base, slightly 

 arched, and terminating in a sharp point. Their 

 sternum has behind on each side a double slope. 

 Their long and pointed wings and short feet cause 

 them to fly like the swallows. They pursue insects 

 in large bodies, especially bees, wasps, &c., and it is 

 remarkable that they are not stung by them. 



There is one species common in the south of 

 Europe, but rare in our latitudes. 



Tlw Common Bee-Eater. (Merops Apiaster.) Enl. 

 938, Naum. 163. Vaill. Guep. 1 and 2. 



A fine bird with a yellow back ; forehead and belly 

 blue ; the throat yellow, surrounded with black ; 

 which buUds in hollows ; it digs in banks four or 

 five feet deep. The young continue there a long 



