[214]. Plegadis falcinellus: The Glossy Ibis. (F. 1544), (J. 943), (+V.)
In this species only the front of the face is devoid of feathers. A chestnut bird with head, wings, and tail dark brown with a green gloss.
[215]. Platalea leucorodia: The Spoonbill. (F. 1545), (J. 939), (+V.)
A large white bird with a crest in the breeding season. The long bill, which is flat and expanded at the end like a spoon, is black, as are the long legs. It is impossible to mistake spoonbills. There are no other birds like them. They are found in small flocks on sandbanks, etc., at the water’s edge.
The Storks, 216-221
Every one is familiar with the appearance of the common stork. The leading features of the stork family are their large size, their long legs, neck, and bill, and their perching habits. In this last respect they differ from cranes, which never perch in trees. During flight their long necks are stretched out forwards, and their long legs stretched out backwards. They fly by a slow, steady flapping of the wings, but often sail on outstretched wings like vultures. Their nests are in India, huge platforms of sticks built in trees.
[216]. Ciconia alba: The White Stork. (F. 1546), (J. 919), (+V; 3½ feet long.)
A white bird with some black in the wings. Bill and legs bright red.
A winter visitor, common in North India.
[217]. Dissura episcopus: The White-necked Stork, or the Beefsteak Bird. (F. 1548), (J. 920), (+V; 3 feet long.)