Cassell's book of birds; vol. 4Brehm, Alfred Edmund
Science
Cassell's book of birds; vol. 4
Brehm, Alfred Edmund
Birds
who blow a glass trumpet to inform their customers when their bread is
taken out of the oven.
* * * * *
The SCREAMERS (_Palamedeæ_) constitute a group of strange birds,
possessing large heavy bodies, long necks, small heads, long powerful
wings, strong tail, and moderately high, thick foot, with remarkably long
toes. The bill is shorter than the head, compressed at the culmen, hooked
at its tip, and covered with a cere at its base. The legs are partially
bare, and the exterior and middle toes connected by a skin; the hind
toe is so long as to touch the ground; the claws are of moderate size,
slightly hooked, and pointed. In the wing the third quill is longer than
the rest, and the rounded tail is composed of twelve feathers; the plumage
of the body is thick; the neck is covered with small feathers. The members
of this group have two powerful spurs on the joint of the wing, and one
species has a horny protuberance on the head. The sexes are unlike in
colour.
The Screamers frequent the marshy grounds of South America, where they
live in pairs or small parties. In disposition they are extremely timid
and shy, but soon betray their presence by their noisy vociferations.
Seeds and portions of plants constitute their principal fare, but they do
not reject insects, small reptiles, or even fishes. Upon the ground they
move with much dignity, and in their manner of flight nearly resemble
some of the larger birds of prey; when at rest, they generally perch on
the branches of lofty trees. Although usually peaceful, they exhibit much
courage if attacked, and defend themselves boldly with the formidable
spurs upon their wings. The nest is large, situated on the ground in their
favourite marshes, and contains two unspotted eggs. The horn and spurs of
this bird are much esteemed by the Indians as healing remedies, and in
many parts of the interior are articles of trade.
THE ANIUMA, OR HORNED SCREAMER.
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