NtiXT in succession to the Sun-birds, and formin" the 
aberrant family of the teuiiirostral birds, are arranged 
the Hoopoes {PromeropidcB) ,t\\Q species of which are 
few ill number, and restricted to the Old AVorld. 
These birds are distinguished by a syndactylic form of 
foot, the outer toe being united for hall* its length to 
the middle toe; and a very long, compressed, curved bill. 
The plumage of the Hoopoes is generally glossed with 
a metallic blue andd eep green ; and in one species, the 
G-rand Promerops of New Guinea, the side and tail- 
feathers are developed in the most singular and extra- 
ordinary manner, indicating in this respect a close 
affinity to some of the Paradise Birds. The Hoopoes 
are ground-feeders ; but their legs are short, and their 
feet combine the properties of perching and walking 
feet. They feed upon insects, worms, and other 
similar prey that are found in moist marshy situations. 
The length of their bill facilitates the capture of their 
food in thick herbage, or even at some depth under 
water. One species, the Common Hoopoe, as it is 
termed, annually visits Europe during the summer 
months, and is occasionally found to reach as far as 
this island ; and instances are recorded of its having 
bred in this country. The Hoopoe is a handsome 
bird, and marches on the ground with a kind of strut, 
bearin" some resemblance to that of GallinidcB. 
O 
They not only perch with great firmness upon low 
