301 
On the Ploceidae of the Ethiopian Region. 
whence it projects on the radial edge, about 0'4 in. in length. 
In the accompanying figure (fig. 4) it is represented of the 
Fig. 4. 
D. 2, D. 3, digits. JR, radius. 77, ulna, m.c, metacarpals. 
natural size. Immediately in front of it is the first digit, 
which in this bird consists of a single phalanx much pointed 
at the extremity. 
XXXY.— A Review of the Species of the Family Ploceidae of 
the Ethiopian Region. By Captain G. E. Shelley, F.Z.S. 
—Part I. Yiduinse. 
(Plate IX.) 
The Ploceidae, or Weavers, most nearly approach the Frin- 
gillidae, from which they may be readily separated by their 
possessing an extra or bastard primary. From the Alaudidae, 
which also have a bastard primary, they may be distinguished 
by their feet, which, in the Ploceidae, are adapted for clinging 
on to boughs, and in the Alaudidae for running on the ground. 
On the other side of the Ploceidae I should place the Orio- 
lidae and the Sturnidae. 
The present review has been undertaken in the hopes of 
assisting in the comprehension of this intricate family, and 
in forming a classification which I shall be able to follow 
in future. I divide the Ploceidae into two subfamilies of 
nearly equal proportions, the Yiduinae and the Ploceinae; 
these two subfamilies are not very sharply marked, but 
their members will, I trust, be easily recognized. 
The first subfamily, Yiduinae, to which I shall confine my 
observations at present, is distinguished by the bastard pri- 
