310 
THICK-KNEES. 
Our next bird, the only British representation of 
the genus (Edicnemus , serves as the connecting chain 
between the Grallalores and Basores by means of 
the Bustards, to which its members approach very 
nearly in habits, form, structure, and plumage ; but 
we are not aware whether they undergo any marked 
sexual change like the Bustards and Plovers. They 
frequent plains or extensive downs, or the moist fal- 
low lands in a cultivated country ; and, so far as we 
know, are not at any season maritime in their habits. 
(Edicnemus, Temminck. — Generic characters . — 
Bill straight, strong, at the base depressed ; tip 
slightly bending, compressed ; maxilla angu- 
lated ; nasal groove wide, covered with a ceral 
membrane ; nostril medial, pierced in the mem- 
brane; wings comparatively short, somewhat 
rounded, second quill longest ; tail cuneated ; 
legs rather long ; tibiae bare above the tarsal 
joint; feet with three toes, connected by a mem- 
brane, which fringes their edges, cursorial. 
Type, CE. crepitans. Europe, Asia, Africa, New 
Holland. 
Note. — Habits not maritime ; partially nocturnal ; 
no decided seasonal change. 
