Zoological Illustrations Series II/Plate 72



It is seldom that the notes of the feathered race are absolutely disagreeable, but we never remember to have heard a bird with a voice of such astounding discord, as that now before us. Its particular note, if note it could be called, we do not now recollect; but it was so shrill, grating, and monotonous, that we have frequently rushed out of the house, to drive away the babbling disturbers. This happened at the hospitable residence of our friend Mr. Pinches, of Pernambucco, whose house was close to a small swamp, overgrown with reeds, among which these birds delight to dwell; and which in fact, they never quit. Clinging to the smooth stems by their strong feet and acute claws, they were incessantly uttering discord with the most provoking perseverance: all the time moving their body from one side to the other, spreading out their tail, and straining their throats, in the most grotesque way imaginable. On each side of the neck, is a long space of bare skin of a deep yellow colour: they live in pairs, and build a pensile nest among the reeds: their flight is very slow and feeble.