470 



REPTILES AND BIRDS. 



into the plains with the early frosts of winter. They are found 

 diffused over all the south of Europe. 



The Piculet {Picumnus pygmceus) has form and habits very 

 similar to the Creeper, but the beak is stronger and more boldly 

 curved. They are natives of Brazil and Guiana. 



Fig. 190. — Columbian Thornbills. 



The Oven Birds (Fiirnarias fuliginosus, Fig. 189) live singly or in 

 pairs in the plains of Chili, Brazil, and Guiana. They feed princi- 

 pally on seeds, but also on insects. They take up their residence 

 with much confidence in the neighbourhood of man's dwellings. 

 Their nests are remarkable, being in the form of an oven, whence 

 their name. This structure is built on trees, on palisades, or even 

 rocks. It is remarkable for its size when compared with its architect 



