2 
■SVOODPECKEES. 
the insects, or punched away the intervening portion 
of the wood. 
Considerable strength of foot and power of grasp- 
ing or clinging is requisite, in order ufiat sufficient 
support should be obtained for the body in its per- 
pendicular or spiral ascent of the bark of a tree. We 
accordingly find that, although short, the Woodpecker’s 
feet are remarkably strong ; two toes are directed 
backwards, and two are placed in front, these latter 
being joined together at their bases, and the whole of- 
them being firmly articulated 
at the joints. In the typical 
species, the exterior hinder 
toe is considerably lengthened, 
so much so as to be longer 
than the longest toe in front. 
The claws are strong and 
Those in front serve to suspend the 
bird, and those which are directed 
backwards have their principal action in tightening 
the hold of them. As an additional support, the tail- 
feathers, which are remarkably firm in their texture, 
terminate in rather firm points, which being pressed 
against the bark are of very great assistance to the 
bird in his perpendicular attitude. The legs are 
placed behind the centre of gravity, so that the weight 
of the bird assists in compressing the claws in the 
fissures of the bark, and presses the tail against the 
tree under them ; and while the centre of gravity 
remains higher than the feet the bird is stable, with- 
out that exertion of the body which would prevent the 
much hooked, 
weight of the 
