The GANGA (_Ibicter Americanus_ or _Ibicter nudicollis_) represents a
group known as the SCREAMING BUZZARDS (_Ibicter_).
The body of this species is slender; its tail so long that the wings
only reach as far as its middle portion; the tarsi are of moderate size,
and equal the middle toe in length; the beak is long, narrow, and arched
gently towards its tip, which is slightly hooked. The bridles, cheeks,
and throat are bare, only the small portion of the cheek-stripes that
passes behind the cere being covered with very long fine bristles. The
length of this species is about twenty-two inches, its breadth forty-two
to forty-five inches, the wing measures fifteen inches and a half, and
the tail nine and a half. The plumage upon the head, throat, nape, back,
wings, tail, breast, and sides of the upper part of the belly are of a
resplendent black, which gleams with a green lustre; the lower part of
the legs and belly are white. The eyes are bright red; the cere, corners
of the mouth, and base of the lower mandible a beautiful light blue;
the bare parts of the face reddish brown. The young are paler in their
colours and their feathers are surrounded by a brown border; their eyes
are brown.
[Illustration: TRACK ACROSS THE PAMPAS.]
We learn from the Prince von Wied that this bird inhabits the primitive
forests, or such parts of the country as are barren and unfrequented.
"It was not," says this author, "until I reached the districts that lie
between the rivers Ithéos and Pardo, in fifteen degrees south latitude,
that I was surprised by the loud penetrating notes of the Ganga, whose
voice sounded strange and unearthly in those deserted regions. This
species is of social habits, and, though often found solitary, is as
frequently met with in pairs and numerous flocks. Woods are usually
preferred for its dwelling-place, as in such localities it easily finds
abundance of wasps, bees, and other insects, upon which it chiefly
subsists. Whilst occupied in the chase of prey, its deep-toned voice is
constantly heard as it flies about from branch to branch." We are told
on reliable authority that it also eats large quantities of fruit and
berries, and some kinds of reptiles.