The Anis and the Barbets also belong to the group of Cuckoos. The Anis
have bulky, short beaks surmounted by a sharp crest. They live in the
hot regions of South America and feed upon Reptiles and Insects. The two
principal species of this genus are the Razor-bill of Jamaica, and the
Savannah Blackbird of America.
The Barbets owe their name to a number of straight hairs which they have
upon their beak. They are massive in form, and their flight is heavy.
They inhabit the warm countries of both continents, and feed upon
fruits, berries and Insects. The best known of this genus is the
Collared Barbet, with a distinct collar of white feathers about the
throat. The Barbets have a curious habit of raising all their plumage
till they look like a ball of feathers; from this peculiarity they have
gained the name of Puff-birds.