256 
AVOSET. 
the continent, though not generally abundant, ex- 
cept in the north of Holland, where M. Temminck 
states it to be common. Out of Europe, we have 
received it from Africa. By Mr. Gould it is stated to 
be Indian, and Mr. Jordan includes it in his Cata- 
logue of Birds belonging to the Peninsula of India,* 
stating it to range as far south as Madras, though it 
does not appear to be any where frequent. The habits 
of this bird are curious so far as they are known, 
and 'when taken in reference to its station among 
the Grallatores. They frequent the banks of rivers 
or estuaries, and feed on aquatic life in various 
forms ; and we have little doubt, that the structure of 
the bill is adapted for seeking some peculiar kinds 
of prey. They are said to wade about the shallow 
pools or soft mud, but do not attempt to swim, or 
to use their feet if placed beyond their depth, these 
webbed members showing apparently a repetition of 
form only, without the use of it being applied, ex- 
cept in so far as it may assist as a support in soft or 
oozy ground. In their breeding they resemble the 
Scolopacidw, being marsh birds, and flying around 
clamorously, with the legs outstretched or dangling, 
as seen in many of the Totani during the season of 
incubation. 
The length of a specimen of the European Avoset 
from Africa, now before us, to the end of the tail, 
is eighteen inches, and to the extremity of the 
stretched-out legs twenty-one and a-half; the whole 
colouring is a marked and distinct variegation of 
* Jerdan, p. 210. 
