226 
CURSORES. 
coast of the Evergreen State. Amidst a dense growth 
of Cactus, with its sharp and rigid spines everywhere 
menacing our steps; a wide-spread expanse of water 
is before us, whose surface is as lovely and tranquil 
as the sky that overshadows it; here and there the 
tall stems of the graceful palm-trees are reflected 
upon its bosom. In this secluded spot the sight of a 
flock of these birds may frequently be enjoyed, and, 
if well concealed from their view, we may study 
their manners at our leisure. Standing with their 
wings partly extended, in the bright rays of the sun 
they present a beautiful spectacle, the deep roseate 
tints upon the sides and upon the wings being then 
displayed to the finest advantage. Behold them mov- 
ing about, with measured tread and stately attitude, 
upon the muddy shore, or wading into the shallows 
to search for food. Here their broad spoon-like bills 
are brought into energetic action. Thrusting the 
head and sometimes the neck into the water or mire, 
and seizing upon the various small shell-fish, insects, 
and other water animals, they literally chew them up 
with their powerful bills before swallowing them. 
After feeding awhile, they will all indulge in a wild 
sally into the free air, ascending sometimes to a con- 
siderable height, moving about in the most graceful 
manner, crossing and recrossing each other, and per- 
forming a great variety of interesting aerial evolu- 
tions; then the whole flock suddenly return to their 
feeding grounds, plunging through the air with great 
power and speed. 
Associated with the Spoonbills will be found a great 
