2^2 



CASSELLS HOOK OF BIRDS. 



examining, and, should the traveller attempt to approach nearer, seek safety in tlight, rising into the 

 air with wings full spread, and, after describing a large circle, descend to resume their labours; — 

 should danger still impend, they take refuge upon some high stone or piece of rock ; but they never 

 frequent trees for this purpose. Gordon Cumming tells us that the cattle are often warned of the 

 approach of some of their numerous enemies by the acute perceptions of these watchful servants; but 

 neither he nor any other traveller has given us any information as to the manner in which the 

 Ox-biters build their nests, or carry on the work of incubation. 



THE RED-BEAKED OX-BITER (Buphaga erylhrorhyncha.') 



The tropical regions of Africa, and some part of Asia, are inhabited by a group of birds which 

 seem to form a connecting link between the Starlings and the Birds of Paradise, and are distinguished 

 by such splendour of colour and satin like brilliancy of plumage, as to have obtained the name of 



The GLOSSY STARLINGS (Lamprotornithcs). All parts of the countries to which they belong 

 are enlivened by the presence of these brilliant creatures, but they principally take up their residence 

 in rocky districts, wooded valleys, or even in the immediate vicinity of man, though they prefer to dis- 

 port themselves amidst the woods, to which they lend an embellishment that travellers are never weary 

 of extolling. The various members of this group are without exception lively, bold, and noisy in 

 their demeanour ; they are usually met with in large flocks, and in many cases do not withdraw from 

 the society of their companions, even during the breeding season ; this sociable disposition is, however, 

 by no means manifested towards other birds, with many of whom they live in a constant state of active 

 warfare. Fruit, seeds, snails, worms, and insects of various kinds constitute their principal food, but 



