48. Otócorys (Shore-lark). Bill rather short, subconic; upper mandible slightly arched. Head—in adult male—with tuft of long, erectile feathers on either side of occiput. Wings long; first primary so small as at first sight to seem wanting, second longest but third nearly its equal, fourth decidedly shorter, outer secondaries short and emarginate at tip. Tail rather long, slightly forked. Tarsus shorter than middle toe; claws moderate and very slightly curved, that of hind toe being comparatively straight.
ORDER PICARIÆ
Opposed to the Passeres. The feet are relatively weaker and smaller.
FAMILY CYPSELIDÆ
(Swifts)
Tail of ten feathers (swallows have twelve). Gape very wide.
49. Cýpselus (Swift). Bill very short, flattened horizontally, triangular; upper mandible curved downwards at the point; gape extending beyond the eyes; legs very short; toes all directed forwards; wings extremely long; first primary a little shorter than the second.