The COCK-TAILED FLY-CATCHER (_Alectrurus tricolor_)--the other member of
this group which we have selected for description--is easily recognisable
by its short, stiff tail, in which sometimes the two exterior and
sometimes the centre feathers are of very peculiar appearance, owing
to the very irregular development of the web. The thick conical beak
terminates in a delicate hook, the legs are slender, the tarsi high, and
the toes long. The wings are of moderate size and pointed, the third
quill being longer than the rest; the first and second are much incised
and narrow towards the tip. The plumage is soft, composed of small
feathers, and the bristles on the cheek-stripes are unusually large. In
the male bird the inner web of the very broad centre tail-feathers is
much developed; the body is almost entirely black, the throat, belly, and
shoulders being white. The plumage of the female and young is yellowish
brown, except upon the throat, which is whitish, with various light
markings, and the centre tail-feathers are no broader than those at the
side; all have greyish brown eyes. The beak is of a dirty light brown,
and the feet dark brown. The length of the Cock-tailed Fly-catcher is
five and a half, and the tail about nine inches. The wing measures two
and a half, and the tail two inches.
These birds inhabit all the plains of South America, and, according
to Azara and D'Orbigny, perch throughout the entire day upon the high
grass, from whence they rise to catch the insects as they pass, and then
sink with outspread wings and tail to their former lurking-place; they
rarely fly to any distance, and often seem to move through the air in
a backward direction. We are without particulars concerning the mode of
breeding and nidification of this species.
* * * * *
The CATERPILLAR EATERS (_Campephagæ_) comprehend a number of birds
inhabiting the East Indies and contiguous islands, as also Africa and New
Holland. With their mode of life we are but little acquainted, beyond the
fact that they associate in small parties, and seek their food almost
exclusively amongst the foliage of trees and bushes. They consume great
numbers of insects and their larvæ, and some few eat berries.