30 
SECOND BOOK. 
behind. With limbs thus built, they are well able 
to scrape up the soil in search of food. 
7. “ I have already shown you an egg laid by the 
largest of living birds, the ostrich, an inhabitant of 
Africa. This bird belongs to the small order of 
Runners, which are unable to fly. 
“ Thus far I have shown you only birds that live 
on land. In the next case you see some that are 
fitted for a life on or near the water. 
8. “And first we will look at the Waders, which 
are sometimes called the ‘ stilted birds’, on account 
of their long, thin legs. These enable them to wade 
in the grassy swamps and in shallow water in search 
of small fishes, insects, worms, molluscs, and other 
food. Here you see the heron and the bittern — 
both very fine birds, — the snipe, and the little 
sandpiper. 
9. “ The seventh order of birds consists of the 
Swimmers. Of these the ducks and geese are 
well known to you. Here is a pelican,” added Mr. 
Johnson, pointing to a large and awkward-looking 
bird, whose enormous bill and pouch gave it a 
curious appearance. “ The pouch serves as a net 
into which the bird scoops the fish it takes. 
10. “ And here is the frigate-bird — remarkable 
for the length of its wings. Although the bird is 
not very large, its wings spread wider than a man’s 
outstretched arms. It is a swift flyer and a good 
fisher; but I am afraid that if this booby in the 
