BEAUTIFUL BIEDS. 
and the tarsi, which are generally covered with 
feathers, short. The toes are joined at their bases by 
a membrane ; and the hind toe is partially united to 
the inner front toe, and in some species is directed 
forwards. The claw on the middle toe is broad, and 
often toothed or serrated on its inner edge.* The tail 
is generally long, even, rounded, or forked. Some of 
the exotic species are decorated with extraneous 
feathers, or other appendages, issuing from the wings, 
tail, or bill. 
Most of these birds utter some peculiar cry, or 
wiiirriug vibratory noise, which have obtained for them 
extraordinary names in 
imitation of the sound 
produced. In the fur 
countries of the north- 
ern parts of America the 
Cajprimulgus Virginianus 
is a common species, and 
it ranges in summer even 
to the remotest Arctic 
islands. The gape of this 
bird is entirelv destitute 
of bristles. The winss are remarkablv long and 
O V o 
* The use of this pectinated claw of the Goatsucker has uot been satisfac- 
torily ascertained. It has been supposed by some naturalists to give a firmer 
hold of the perch ; by others that it is of use in capturing the prey ; and 
by others, again, that it serves as a comb to rid the plumage on the head or 
vibrissae of vermin or particles of dust, or other substances that might 
adhere to those parts. It is probable, however, that it is used in confining 
the struggles of its prey, where too large or strong to be swallowed at once, 
until the harder portions are removed or the insect is deprived of life. It 
may like\vise be nsed as a comb, and modified so as to suit the laxity of 
plumage of these birds. 
