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THE RED-THROATED FALCON. 
considerably larger than the males. As we have seen, it has been determined by observation 
that the Bald Eagle does not attain the white of the head and tail until it has reached the 
age of ten years. Before this fact was clearly comprehended, much confusion was the result 
of any attempt to distinguish species. 
FALCONS AND HAWKS. 
The Red-theoated Falcon, which affords a good example of the genus Ibycter, is a 
native of South America. 
The birds comprising this genus are remarkable for the convexity of the upper mandible, 
and the semi-blunt, notched lower mandible. The claws are sharp, and the cheeks, the throat, 
RED-THEOATED FALCON .— Ibycter americanus. 
and part of the crop are naked. This species is a very handsome one, the general tint of the 
plumage being a very deep blue on the back and the upper surface, and reddish-white below. 
The neck has a purplish-red hue, from which the bird derives its popular name ; the claws are 
black, the feet and cere yellow, and the beak a deep blue. This bird has been known under a 
variety of names, such as the Little American Eagle, the Bare-necked Falcon, the White-billed 
Ibycter, the Bare-necked Polyborus, together with many similar appellations. The habits of 
the bird are not known. 
