BIRD LEGEND AND LIFE 



it any wonder that he does not appear on the concert plat- 

 form? 



The vulture's lack of song cannot be attributed to size 

 entirely, for other birds equally large are not without musical 

 ability. With the coming dawn for inspiration, chanticleer 

 wakes the world with his matin; stroUing about in the sun- 

 shine, his portly spouse gives tuneful utterance to her enjoy- 

 ment; on the approach of rain guineas and peafowls pour 

 forth paeans of thanksgiving, while the funereal vulture is 

 almost as silent as the dead on which he preys. Nothing 

 seems to touch the song spring in his nature. ' 



In vocal expression, there is evidence of decadence in 

 the vulture family, for, although Indian tradition states plain- 

 ly that its early members were able to express themselves 

 freely in speech, they are now the most taciturn of birds, an 

 occasional "wah," a low, hissing sound, and a grunt — seem- 

 ingly inspired by overeating — are to-day all they have to 

 give the world in the way of language. 



The accidental meal with which the embassador vulture 

 refreshed himself on that ancient but memorable journey, 

 seems to have determined the gustatory tastes of his clan 

 for all succeeding ages. Since that time only decaying 

 food has the power to charm their palates, though it is said 

 that under stress of himger these birds attack and kiU de- 

 fenseless small birds and animals by piercing their eyes. Pu- 

 trid animal matter, the choicest item on the vulture menu, is 

 earnestly sought and eagerly devoured by them. This is gen- 

 erally supposed to be due to lack of strength in claws 

 incapable of tearing flesh that has not been weakened by 

 decay. 



In finding their food, vultures are not dependent upon 

 the sense of smell, as is commonly believed. Like all other 



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