The Food of Birds 145 
satisfied. As a result the narrow, shaft-like feathers of 
the forehead frequently become saturated and stained 
with juice and dusted over with pollen, and it is probable 
that this bird plays an important part in the cross-fer- 
tilization of several species of protea.”’ 
Desmids and diatoms, those one-celled microscopic 
organisms which are almost on the border-line between 
FOOD OF VARIOUS BIRDS. 
Fra, 110.—Sea-urchin 
plants and animals, I have found in large numbers in 
the digestive tracts of ducks and other birds which are 
accustomed to find their food by sifting the mud at the 
edges of ponds and lakes. 
Sponges, at least in a decayng state, are devoured by 
crows, as I can testify from observation after dredging 
expeditions in the Bay of Fundy. 
