210 
ALCXNJE. 
FAMILY XLVI. ALCINiE. ALCINE BIRDS, 
OR AUKS. 
The species which, constitute the family of the Alci- 
nae are generally of moderate size, a few, however, be- 
ing small, and one or two of large dimensions. They 
are easily known by their general appearance ; the body 
being large, full, compact, ovate, or somewhat elongated ; 
the neck short and thick ; the head large, broadly ovate, 
anteriorly narrowed. Bill short or of moderate length, 
much compressed, generally very high, sometimes rather 
slender, with both mandibles more or less pointed. The 
mouth rather wide ; palate flat, with longitudinal ridges ; 
tongue slender, tapering, trigonal, pointed, and thin- 
edged ; oesophagus very wide, thin, generally much di- 
lated in its lower part; stomach moderate, or rather 
large, roundish, with a moderately thick muscular coat, 
and dense, plicate epithelium ; intestine rather long ; 
coeca of moderate size. Nostrils small, linear, basal, 
sub-marginal. Eyes small. Apertures of ears very 
small. Feet short, rather stout, placed far behind ; tibia 
bare for a short space ; tarsus very short, compressed, 
anteriorly scutellate ; toes three, of moderate lengthy 
connected by webs ; claws rather small, strong, arched, 
compressed, acute. Plumage dense, soft, blended ; wings 
small, narrow, pointed ; tail very short, rounded. 
The Alcinse are marine diving-birds, which inhabit 
especially the cold and temperate regions of both conti- 
nents, breeding on rocks or islets in the northern parts, 
usually in vast numbers. Owing to the position of their 
feet, they stand in a raised posture, walk ill, but swim 
with great agility. They are most expert divers, and 
their short firm wings are especially well adapted for 
aiding their progress under water. Their food consists 
