BIRDS OF THE UNITED STATES. 
283 
liis window". A moment or two elapsed, when the keen smell of these 
birds scented something edible, but they were unable to find it, for the 
obvious reason that the object was hidden from view by the enveloping 
paper. 
Generally, their food consists of all kinds of animal matter. They are 
often accused of egg-sucking, and also of eating the young of Herons, as 
well as those of other birds. In Trinidad they are said to live on the 
most friendly terms with the poultry. As no breach of faith has been 
reported to have occurred in this instance, it is not likely that they would 
molest in any way our smaller birds, at least we are not cognizant of any 
such cases of interference, from our own observation, nor do we find them 
in the recorded experiences of our friends. They are worse-disposed, it 
seems to us, to their own kith and kin. When several are together, the 
most violent wrangles occur over their booty. Each strives to get the 
lion’s share. It is rather amusing to witness their manoeuvres. A fellow 
has just discovered a very choice bit, which he is endeavoring to make 
away with in a somewhat hurried manner, but before he has accomplished 
the task, he is soon beset by a near companion who has scarcely swallowed 
his morsel. A conflict ensues. The latter being the stronger, succeeds 
after a while in defrauding the other of his rightful property. When 
gorged, these birds appear stupid and indisposed to exertion, the period of 
digestion being ordinarily passed in a motionless, listless attitude, with 
half-spread wings. 
Recovered from their semi-stupid condition, they do not at once go to 
feeding again, but pass a long time in the healthful exercise of their 
volant appendages. Few birds are more graceful, easy and dignified while 
on the wing. On the ground they may seem awkward, but it is while 
soaring above the earth that they are seen in all their glory. When 
prepared for their lofty flights, they spring from the ground with a single 
bound, and, after a few quick flappings of the wings, move heavenward. 
Having attained a great elevation, they move through the ether in ever- 
widening circles, or sail on nearly horizontal wings, the tips above being 
