Subfamily AGELAINÆ.
Char. Bill stout, conical, and acutely pointed, not longer than the head; the outlines nearly straight, the tip not decurved. Legs adapted for walking, longer than the head. Claws not much curved. Tail moderate, shorter than the wings; nearly even.
The Agelainæ, through Molothrus and Dolichonyx, present a close relation to the Fringillidæ in the comparative shortness and conical shape of the bill, and, in fact, it is very difficult to express in brief words the distinctions which evidently exist. Dolichonyx may be set aside as readily determinate by the character of the feet and tail. The peculiar subfamily characteristics of Molothrus will be found under the generic remarks respecting it.
The following diagnosis will serve to define the genera:—
A. Bill shorter than the head. Feathers of head and nostrils as in B.
Dolichonyx. Tail-feathers with rigid stiffened acuminate points. Middle toe very long, exceeding the head.
Molothrus. Tail with the feathers simple; middle toe shorter than the tarsus or head.
B. Bill as long as the head. Feathers of crown soft. Nostrils covered by a scale which is directed more or less downwards.
Agelaius. First quill shorter than the second and third. Outer lateral claws scarcely reaching to the base of middle; claws moderate.
Xanthocephalus. First quill longest. Outer lateral claw reaching nearly to the tip of the middle. Toes and claws all much elongated.