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This extensive genus, which restricted as it now is, comprises nearly a hundred and twenty species, is distinguished by having the beak slightly arched from the base to the tip, the notch distinct, and the gape set with weak and fine hairs; the wings are somewhat lengthened, the first quill so short as to be almost rudimentary, the third and fourth longest; the tail of moderate length and breadth; the feet formed for walking as well as perching on trees.

The Thrushes are, to a considerable extent, migratory in their habits, flocks frequently removing from one district of country to another, even in those climates, where the seasons are sufficiently equable to allow of their remaining without inconvenience from the weather. Thus not only do the European species resort to the more temperate parts during winter, and on the approach of summer assemble in great numbers, and return to the more northern regions, but some of the American species are continually roving about in flocks, "innumerable thousands," migrating from one region to another through the whole winter. Their food is very varied; a great portion of it is sought upon the ground, and their feet are admirably formed for walking over the places whither they chiefly resort for this purpose. In winter the various species of slugs and snails, with earthworms and grubs, that are found in open weather in moist woods and meadows, constitute their principal support; but during frosts they subsist on various berries and other