SUB-ORDEE 



CLAMATORES. 



In the present state of our knowledge of the subject, it is a matter of some uncertainty 

 whether the North American Anisodactyle birds, viz : the Alcedinidae and Frionitidae, belong 

 more naturally to the Sirisores or to the Clamatores of Oabanis' arrangement, (Slrisores and 

 TracTieophones of Burmeister.) However, although in some respects of closer affinities to the 

 former, I propose to keep them with the Clamatores, in accordance with the views of Oabanis. 

 They may be grouped as Anisodactyli, in distinction from the remaining families of the 

 sub-order, or J'racheophones, although neither of these names is to be taken in the extended 

 signification given it by MuUer and others, but merely as having provisional reference to the 

 North American species alone. 



The muscles of the lower larynx, in some families, are weak and simple as in the Strisores ; 

 in others again they form a powerful fleshy body, which covers the first bronchial ring. These 

 birds have a harsh voice, capable of but little modulation. 



The following schedule will be sufficient to indicate the general characters of the different 

 families of this sub-order found in North America, although there are many others from other 

 parts of the world not taken into account : 



ANISODACTYLI. 



Outer toe much longer than the inner ; united for half its length to the middle so as to 

 have a common sole to this extent. Sole of the hind toe widened and continuous 

 internally with that of the inner toe. Tail usually with twelve feathers, sometimes 

 with ten. 



Alcedinidae. — Tongue small, rudimentary. Tarsi very short. Edge of bill plain. 

 Pkionitidae. — Tongue of normal size. Tarsi rather long. Cutting edge of bill 

 dentated. 



TRACHEOPHONES. 



Feet and wings much as in the lowest Oscmes. Lateral toes usually nearly equal. Tail 

 generally of twelve feathers. 



CoLOPTEEiDAB. — Tarsus more or less enveloped by scutellae. Posterior portion of 

 the tarsus with small plates, sometimes partly naked. Wings sometimes with 

 peculiarly abbreviated primaries. Bill short, conical, and usually depressed, 

 the tip sometimes abruptly hooked. 



