The TRUE HANGING BIRDS (_Arachnocestra longirostris_) are olive-green
on the back, and sulphur-yellow on the under side; the throat and upper
breast are white, the quills and tail-feathers deep brown, the former
edged with olive, and the three outer tail-feathers tipped with white; the
beak and feet are blackish grey. This species is six inches and a half
long, the wing measures two inches and two-thirds, and the tail one inch
and three-quarters.
[Illustration: THE HANGING BIRD (_Arachnocestra longirostris_).]
These birds frequent banana plantations, and usually betray their presence
by their shrill chirping cry. Were it not for the constant repetition of
their note they would rarely be observed, as the hues of their plumage
render it almost impossible to detect them among the foliage. We learn
from Bernstein that their manner of building is very remarkable. The
oval-shaped nest, some six or seven inches long, and three or four inches
broad, is attached by threads to a large leaf, in such a manner that the
latter forms the fourth side. Fine grass and fibres are employed for the
interior, and half-decayed leaves, of which little more than the fibrous
portion remains, are used for the outer wall, so that, when completed,
the curious structure has rather the appearance of a substantial spider's
web than of a bird's nest. The entrance is at one end. The eggs, two in
number, are pure white, spotted with reddish brown at the broad extremity.
* * * * *
The HONEY-EATERS (_Meliphaga_) have a long, slender, slightly-curved beak,
the upper mandible of which extends considerably beyond the lower portion.
The feet are strong but moderate-sized, and furnished with powerful hinder
toes; the wing, also moderate, is rounded, its fourth quill being the
longest; the tail varies in its dimensions, but is usually rounded at its
extremity; the nostrils are concealed by a cartilaginous skin; the gape is
narrow, and the tongue provided with a tuft of delicate fibrous bristles
at its tip. The stomach is very small, and but slightly muscular. The
plumage, which differs little in the two sexes, varies considerably in
different species. In some it is thick, variegated, and much developed in
the region of the ear, in others smooth, compact, and of almost uniform
colour.
All the Honey-eaters are of a lively and restless disposition, and
exhibit the utmost activity both when running upon the ground or climbing
amongst the branches; in the latter case, especially, their movements are
extremely agile. They are constantly to be seen hanging head downwards
from the twigs, whilst engaged in busily searching under the leaves for
insects, and in extracting honey from the flowers. Some species fly well,
and disport themselves freely in the realms of air, whilst others are
incapable of continuing their undulatory flight for more than a short
distance. The voice of all is rich and varied, indeed, some members of
the group may be regarded as really good singers. Few species are social
in their habits; they keep together only in pairs, even when of necessity
compelled to take up their abode near each other. Towards man they show
the utmost confidence, and come freely down into streets and dwellings;
indeed, they exhibit no timidity even towards the more formidable of the
feathered kind. Instances have been frequently recorded in which they have
boldly opposed Crows, Falcons, and other large birds. Their nests are
variously constructed, and the number of eggs is always small.
* * * * *
The TRUE HONEY-EATERS (_Myzomela_) are small birds, with delicate, much
curved beaks, powerful feet, and moderate-sized wings and tail. The latter
is either straight or slightly incised at its extremity. The plumage is
remarkable for its brilliancy.