66 OMNIVORI. CORVUS. 
hind. Wings of middle length, pointed at the tips. Most 
of the genera live in societies, and are monogamous. ‘They 
breed in the tops of trees, or in thick brakes, clefts of rocks, 
or ruinous buildings, and some few in the hollows of decayed 
trees. | 
Their flesh is black, dry, and ill-flavoured. They feed on 
grain, insects, berries, fruit, young birds, and carrion, and 
may justly be denominated omnivorous. 
Genus III. CROW. CORVUS, Linn. 
GENERIC CHARACTERS. 
Bill strong, cultrated, strait at the base, but bending 
slightly towards the tip ; nostrils, at the base of the bill, oval, 
and open; covered by reflected bristly feathers. Wings 
pointed ; the first feather bemg much shorter than the second | 
and third, and the fourth being the longest. Legs and feet 
plated, with three toes before and one behind. ‘Toes divided. 
Tarsus longer than the middle toe. 
This genus is widely spread, and some of the species are 
found in every quarter of the globe. In disposition these 
birds are cunning, cautious, and ever watchful. Their sense 
of smell] is very acute. When taken young, they, are easily 
domesticated, and in that state soon become impudent and 
obtrusive. Are greatly addicted to pilfering, and their at- 
tention seems particularly attracted by glittering objects. 
Are very imitative, and may be taught to articulate words. 
Are not nice in the selection of their diet, feeding indiscrimi- 
nately upon insects, carrion, grain, eggs, &c. Many species 
live and travel in bands or societies. Scarcely any difference 
in plumage is observable between the male and female; and 
they are subject to only one moult in the course of the year, 
This genus is divided into three sections. 
SECTION I. 
Comprehends such as are properly called Crows. 
