fifth longest and equal, the third and sixth rather shorter, the second about
three quarters of an inch shorter than the two longest. Tail long and slightly
rounded at the point. Tarsi moderately long, rather robust, and with indications
of plates anteriorly towards the toes, elsewhere entire ; claws strong,
the anterior ones much curved.
DIMENSIONS.
Length from the point of the bill
Inches.
to
Lines.
Length of the tarsus.................
Inches.
........... 1
the tip of the tail ....... 9 6 the outer to e ............ .......... 0 7
of the kill from the gape .. 1 U the middle toe........ .......... 0 H
of the wings when folded . 4 10 the inner toe............. ........... 0 6
of the tail........................... 4 0 the hinder toe ......... .......... 0 5
The colours of the female are not known.
Only a very few specimens of this species have yet been procured, and none beyond the
forests which border upon Port Natal. Those which we have seen were found in damp retired
situations ; and when discovered, were actively employed, beneath the brushwood, in search
of food.