128 AMERICAN AVOSET. 



aquatic insects. The intestines were infested with tape worms^ 

 and a number of smaller bot-like worms, some of which wallowed 

 in the cavity of the abdomen. 



In Mr. Peale^s collection there is one of this same species, 

 said to have been brought from New Holland, differing little in 

 the markings of its plumage from our own. The red brown on 

 the neck does not descend so far, scarcely occupying any of the 

 breast; it is also somewhat less. 



In every stuffed and dried specimen of these birds which I 

 have examined, the true form and flexure of the bill is altogether 

 deranged; being naturally of a very tender and delicate substance. 



