THE CONE-BILLED PEBOHEBS. 



233 



Raven is accused with some justice of hastening, and on fishes at 

 cetaceous animals which have been cast on shore by the waves. 

 In these cases the Raven conducts itself much in the manner of 

 the vulture. It commences by taking out the eye and tongue, 

 and then proceeds to tear open the abdomen, operations for which 

 its sharp and powerful bill seems quite as well fitted as the hooked 

 beak of the rapacious birds. It is a very crafty bird, and can 

 with difficulty be approached, but by laying a dead carcase near 



its haunts, and being carefully concealed, it may be seen cautiously 

 approaching; first perching on an eminence, it looks carefully 

 round; then, advancing with a sidelong step, it examines its ex 

 pectfid prey. When fully satisfied, it pecks out the eyes and 

 proceeds to satiate itself with food. The Raven seems to fear no 

 storms, and to be deterred by no inclemency of weather from 

 seeking its prey. Although formerly so plentiful in England that 

 innumerable omens wore drawn from its (roaking, flight, etc., it 

 20* 



