(_over three quarters Nat. size_)
(Swainson)
]
All the members of this group occupy forests, where they live either alone
or in pairs; but rarely associating even in small parties, and still
more rarely venturing near the dwelling-place of man. Like the Jacamars,
these birds are remarkable for their indolence, and the quietude of their
manner of life, as they obtain their insect-prey without even leaving the
branch on which they are perched. The eggs of some species are deposited
in holes excavated by the parents; but, beyond this fact, we are without
particulars as to their mode of incubation.
* * * * *
The SLEEPERS (_Nystalus_) possess a powerful, straight beak--almost as
long as the large, thick head--compressed at its sides, and slightly
hooked at the projecting upper mandible. The short, thick foot and backs
of the toes (the latter not placed in pairs) are covered with large,
smooth scales; the wings are short and slender, the tail of medium length,
and composed of narrow feathers of almost equal size, if we except the
short exterior pair.
[Illustration: THE GREEN JACAMAR (_Galbula viridis_).]