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Show 582 MR. P. L. SCLATER ON THE CAPRIMULGID^E. [Dec. 13, I have been able lately to make a more accurate examination of the structure of the abnormal form Podargus, which has tended very much to strengthen m y views as to the necessity of referring this bird and its allies to a different family from the typical Caprimulgidar. A specimen of a bird of this genus (probably Podargus cuvieri, Vig. & Horsf.), which died in the Society's Gardens a short time since, and was examined by Dr. Murie and myself, presented the following appearances :- No external opening to the oil-gland could be found, nor any traces of this organ, on dissection. Two large powder-down patches were discovered, placed on each side of the rump. Each patch consists of about forty feathers, Fig. 1. Powder-down patches of Podargus. Nat. size. placed in a line extending from above the outer end of the root of the rectrices towards the femur. A few straggling feathers of the same character border the patch externally towards the knee-joint. |
