The RAVEN SHRIKES (_Thamnophili_) constitute a very peculiar group inhabiting South America, Africa, and New Holland, closely allied to the Shrikes, though differing from them in so many particulars that ornithologists are as yet at variance respecting their classification, founding their difference of opinion upon the peculiar construction of the singing apparatus observable in some species. These birds are for the most part of moderate size, with powerfully constructed bodies; their wings are either of medium length, or short and much rounded, whilst the tail is subject to many varieties of form; the tarsi, which are usually long and slender, always exceed the centre toe in length, this latter is united with the exterior toe as far as the first joint, whilst on the inner side the toes are entirely unconnected. The elongate beak, which is always more or less straight at its culmen, curves abruptly towards its tip, where it exhibits tooth-like appendages. The margins of the bill are sharp and compressed; the plumage of some species is rich, soft, and in many instances striking in appearance, owing to the long and almost wool-like feathers upon the back; the base of the beak is usually surrounded by a growth of bristles. We are entirely without particulars as to the life and habits of several members of this group, and must therefore avoid any _general_ description. * * * * * The CROW SHRIKES (_Cracticus_), according to Gould, who first described them, closely resemble the Piping Crows in appearance. THE MAGPIE SHRIKE. The MAGPIE SHRIKE (_Cracticus destructor_), the most numerous representative of this section, is of a deep greyish brown upon the upper part of the body; the wings are blackish brown; the top of the head and nape black; the rump is white, the under side greyish white, and a white spot lies between the eyes and the base of the beak. The quills are blackish brown, with a white edge to the outer web of the secondaries; the tail-feathers are black, and, except the two centre ones, are tipped with white. The eye is dark reddish brown; the beak is grey at its base, and black towards the tip; the feet are deep grey. The female has darker markings than her mate, and the young are spotted with brown and reddish yellow. The length of this species is about thirteen inches and a half. [Illustration: THE HELMET SHRIKE (_Prionaps poliocephalus_).]