130 AVES. 



like scales; their tarsi are half feathered above and reticulated: their tsul is 

 equal, vvings long", and their beak curved from its base like all those which 

 follow- 



BuTEO, Bechstein. 

 The Buzzards have long wings; the taU equal; the beak curved from its 

 base; the space between it and the eyes naked; the feet strong. 



CiHCTTs, Bechstein. 

 The Harriers differ from the Buzzards in their elevated tarsi, and in a 

 kind of collar on each side of their neck, formed by the tips of the feathers 

 which cover their ears. Finally, the 



Sehpentarius, Cuv. 

 The Snake-Eater or Secretary, is an African bird of prey, whose tarsi are 

 at least double the length of those of the preceding ones, which caused 

 some naturalists to place it among the Grallatorise, or Waders; but its legs, 

 completely invested with feathers, its hooked and cleft beak, projecting 

 eye-lids, and all its anatomical details place it in the present order. It inha- 

 bits the dry and open grounds in the vicinity of the Cape, where it hunts 

 reptiles on foot; its claws consequently become much worn. Its chief 

 strength lies in the leg. 



FAMILY 11. 



NOCTURNE. 



Nocturnal birds of prey have a large head; great eyes, directed 

 forwards, surrounded by a circle of slender feathers, the anterior of 

 which cover the cera of the beak, and the posterior, the opening of 

 the ear. Their enormous pupil permits the entrance of so many 

 rays of light, that they are dazzled by that of day. Their cranium, 

 which is thick, but formed of a light substance, is excavated by large 

 sinuses, which communicate with the ear, and which probably as- 

 sist in strengthening the sense of hearing; but the organs of flight 

 are not very vigorous; their fourchette is weak; their feathers being 

 soft, and covered with a fine down, make no noise in flying. They 

 can direct their external toe either forwards or backwards. These 

 birds are chiefly on the wing during twilight, and when the moon 

 shines. When attacked in the day time, they do not fly off", but 

 stand more erect, assume odd postures, and make the most ludicrous 

 gestures. 



Their prey is wholly animal, consisting of Mice, small Birds, and 



