BIRDS OF FLORIDA 
SUBCLASS I. LAND BIRDS. 
Tibia and fibula free; not enclosed within the shin of the body. 
This subclass embraces all birds that live upon the land, comprising by far the 
greater number of species. Among them are found the most unique and widely 
diversified forms. The wingless, ill-formed Apteryx, the majestic, high-soaring Eagle, 
the disgusting Vulture, the beautiful plumaged Paradise birds, the tiny, graceful 
Hummingbirds, the gigantic Ostrich; in short, all the countless feathered tribes whose 
presence enlivens and beautifies woodland, plain, and shore, can claim relationship 
under this head. 
OLDER I. INSESSORE3. PERCHING BIRDS. 
Base of hind toe on a level with the anterior toes. 
Under this order are classed all birds that find their homes in trees and shrubs; although 
many move with ease upon the ground. 
SUBORDER I. PASSERES. SPARROW-LIKE BIRDS. 
Sternum with two moderate marginal indentations which equal in depth, at least, one-fourth 
the length of the top of the keel. Keel also moderate, although exceeding in height, at least, 
one-half the width of the sternum, but it is never as high as the sternum is broad. 
SECTION I. OSCINES. SINGING BIRDS. 
Larynx provided with a peculiar muscular apparatus for singing. 
On account of the complicated larynx, usually provided with five pairs of muscles, the 
species embraced in this order are capable of producing a variety of modulated and harmonious 
notes. It is to them that we owe those songs, full of liquid melody, that add so much to the 
beauty of our sylvan retreats. 
FAMILY I. TURDIDiE. THE THRUSHES. 
Marginal indentations of sternum exceeding in depth the height of the keel. Width of sternum not more than half 
the length of the keel. Hind claws less than twice the length of the anterior claws. 
. Generally birds of plain colors, but what they lack in this respect is made up in vocal powers, for among them 
arc some of the finest singers in the world. 
