Genus LOCUSTEIXA.
caria, excepting that the beak is deeper at the base and runs more
to a point; rictus bristles rudimentary; the hiud claw longer, remarkably slender and
clean made; and the tail broader and more decidedly graduated.
R E E D LOCU ST E L L E .
Locustella fluviatibs.
Le Bec-fin riverain.
S»ca we learn from M. Natterer that this bird closely assimilates to the Grasshopper Warbler, Lo^teU a
■ H ■ W B m Par‘iC“larIjr in 3 ShriI1 inWard t0M H i the «f ventriloquism,
■ " f f R H B S conjoined to these affinities, we find that they agree still more
closely m structural form, which differs considerably from that of the birds forming the genes B f l of
Selby, particularly m the lengthened hind claw and in the shape of the beak, we feel no hesitation in
ass.gn.ng to these nearly allied species a distinct generic situation, under the restored title of Locustella.
The specific term as applied to the present bird conveys an erroneous iiupressiou, for M. Natterer
informs us that although it resorts to low situations, it nevertheless does not confine itself to reed-beds
but rather prefers swampy coppices and thickets. It is extremely scarce in the western portion of the European
continent; but is plentiful in Austria and Hungary, and is very common in the islandgardens in the
Danube near Vienna. °
The sexes exhibit little or no difference of plumage, nor does it appear to undergo any periodical changes
The upper parts are olive clouded with brown; under surface lighter; the throat and breast whitish
spotted with brown ; under tail-eoverts greyish white ; bill and tarsi brown.
We have figured an adult male of the natural size.