SYNOPSIS OF BIRD FAMILIES. 



Family Tyrannidee : Tyrant Flycatchers. Page 182. 



8 Species. 

 Insectivorous birds of small and medium size, with or 

 without erectile crests, having broad bills tapering to a 

 sharp point, and large mouths. Colouring ranging from 

 brown to olive-gray, with yellow washes on the breast. 

 Usually having harsh voices, one or two species, however, 

 possessing plaintive call notes. To be distinguished from 

 other birds of a general, similar appearance, who pursue 

 insects upon the wing by the " habit of perching in wait for 

 their prey upon some prominent outpost, in a peculiar atti- 

 tude, with the wings and tail drooped and vibrating in readi- 

 ness for instant action ; and of dashing into the air, seizing 

 the passing insect with a quick movement and a click of the 

 bill, and then returning to their stand." (Dr. Coues.) 



ORDER MACROCHIRES : ■WHIP-POOR-WILLS, 

 SWIFTS, ETC. 



Family Caprimulgidse : Whip-poor-wills, Night-hawks, etc. 

 Page 190. 



2 Species. 

 Medium-sized, heavy birds with long wings, short, thick 

 heads and gaping, bristly mouths, taking their insect food 

 on the wing (the Whip-poor-will is strictly nocturnal in 

 habit). When at rest they either perch lengthwise on a 

 branch or sit on the ground. 



Family Micropodidae : Swifts. Page 193. 

 1 Species. 

 The bird known commonly as the Chimney Swallow, but 

 which is in reality a Swift and closely allied to the Night- 

 hawk, being a nocturnal as well as diurnal feeder. 



Family Trochilidae : Hummingbirds. Page 194. 



1 Species. 

 Very small birds, with long, needle-like bills, small feet, 

 iridescent green plumage (ruby throat in male), and rest- 

 less, darting flight. Feeding among flowers. 



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