Order I. ACCIPIT^RES Linn. 
This order embraces the Birds of Prey: they have the Bill of various length and form, more or less 
compressed ; with the culmen suddenly hooked at the tip, and acute ; the base more 01 less covu ed with 
a cere, in which are pierced the variously formed Nostrils; the Wings lengthened and pointed; the 
Feet strong, with the Tarsi moderate, generally rounded, and covered Avith scales of different shapes ; the 
Toes three before and one behind, all armed Avith strong ClaAVS, and their soles invariably rough. 
The first Suborder, 
ACCIPITRES DIURAI, or Diurnal Birds of Prey, 
are distinguished from those that pursue their food in the twilight or at night, by the lateral position of 
their Eyes ; the base of the upper mandible covered for nearly half its length Avith a prominent cere, in 
Avhich the Nostrils are placed ; the Tarsi moderate, scaled, and laiely covered Avith plumes 
The first Family, 
VULTURIDiE, or Vultures, 
have the Bill more or less strong, compressed, with the tip hooked and acute , the Win e s le G 
and pointed; the Tarsi short, rounded, and covered with reticulated scales, the Toes moderate; 
middle one the longest, and longer than the Tarsi, the outer connected with the middle one by a 
membrane, the hind toe rather elevated, and all armed with strong obtuse Claws. 
Most of the birds of this family have the head and neck more or less, clothed with down in the place 
of feathers, and the crop is prominent, naked, or covered Avith Avoolly hairs. 
* The Raptatores of Illiger, the Rapaces 
of M. Temminck, or the Raptores of Mr. Swamson. 
