OE THE BEITISH ISLANDS. 143 



Genus EUDROMIAS, or Dotterels. 



Type, BUDEOMIAS MOEINELLUS. 



Eudromias, of Brehm (1831).— Although very closely allied to the birds in 

 the preceding genus, the Dotterel presents certain characteristics which to some 

 extent warrant its generic exclusion. The single species in the present genus is 

 characterised by having the tibia almost entirely feathered, and the culmen less 

 than the combined length of the middle toe and claw. The hind toe is wanting 

 and the wings are long and pointed. 



This genus contains but a single species which is confined to the Palsearctic 

 region in summer, and in winter is found also in the Ethiopian portion of the 

 Intertropical realm. It is a summer visitor to the British Islands, and passes 

 them on spring and autumn migration. 



The Dotterel is an inland species rather than a dweller on the coasts, and in 

 its habits and economy closely resembles its allies. Full particulars will be given 

 in the following chapter. 



