EAGLES 197 



destroy by their unnecessary and embarrassing 

 presence the general smoothness and consistency 

 of the whole effect. In the highlands, therefore, 

 coinciding with the subdued tints of the plateau 

 scenery, we have a bird life chiefly distinguished 

 by the soberness of its plumage, and the in- 

 significance of its claims to the possession of 

 fine feathers. 



We will commence with the raptorial families, 

 which, although not by any means confined to hill 

 country, yet naturally suggest themselves for first 

 consideration by reason of their wild, untamable 

 nature, which accords so closely with the environ- 

 ment we have chosen for them. 



First and foremost in this class we find that 

 magnificent variety the Warlike Crested Eagle. 

 I do not know why the adjective warlike should 

 have become so constantly associated with this 

 bird, for, to the best of my belief, there is no 

 evidence that he displays a more pugnacious 

 disposition than other members of his order, but 

 his scientific name, Spizcetus bellicosus, is doubtless 

 responsible for the reputation he has received. He 

 stands nearly four feet high, and his wing plumage 

 of glossy black, turning to grey on the beUy and 

 thighs, is somewhat toned down by an admixture of 

 rich chocolate-brown on the back and body feathers. 

 His head, surmounted by a thick crest of dusky 

 feathers, terminates in a massive, powerful, hooked 

 beak, whilst his talons are probably larger and 

 more powerful than those of any other African 

 eagle. If Spizcetus is the most impressive of this 

 branch of bird life, assuredly the next in point of 



