The NARINA (_Hapaloderma narina_), the only species of this group with
which we are at present acquainted, is of a magnificent golden green on
the entire mantle, centre tail-feathers, and throat; the lower breast and
belly are deep rose-red, the large wing-covers grey, striped with black,
the quills black, with white shafts, and the small wing-covers beautiful
golden green; the exterior tail-feathers are white on the outer and
blackish on the inner web. In the plumage of the female all these shades
are duller than in that of her mate; her brow and throat are brownish red,
and her tail-feathers brownish black.
Le Vaillant first discovered the Narina in the extensive forests of
Caffraria, Rüppell met with it near the Abyssinian coast, Heuglin at
Fossokel and on the White River, and Du Chaillu on the shores of the
Zambesi; we, ourselves, were only once lucky enough to see this beautiful
bird, and that was a few miles from the coast of the Red Sea. We learn
from Jules Verreaux that in Southern Africa the Narina principally
frequents the mighty forests east of the Cape of Good Hope. In these
retreats it leads a solitary and very sedentary life, only rousing itself
to activity morning and evening, in order to procure food. So peculiar is
the deportment of this bird as to render its identity quite unmistakable,
as it sits bolt upright, with tail hanging negligently down, and head
drawn closely in. Its flight is hovering and almost noiseless. During the
period of incubation it utters a wailing, resonant cry, which frequently
deceives the traveller as to its whereabouts, for the bird possesses
the power of ventriloquism to a remarkable degree. Its food consists
principally of beetles and flies. According to Le Vaillant, the Narina
deposits four round, white eggs in a hollow tree; while Verreaux states
that the young are hatched in twenty days, and remain for a considerable
time under parental care after they are fully fledged.
* * * * *
[Illustration: THE NARINA (_Hapaloderma narina_).]
The TROGONS PROPER (_Trogon_) constitute an American group, recognisable
by their broad, high beak, the upper mandible of which is much vaulted,
slightly hooked at its extremity, and incised at the margins. The wings
are short and blunt, the graduated tail of moderate length, and the
plumage lax, soft, and composed of broad feathers.