Mid´dle Toe, n. The third toe in order of reckoning, with few exceptions four-jointed. When the fourth toe is reversed, as in all zygodactyle birds except trogons, it becomes the outer anterior toe; in trogons, and a few birds in which the true inner or second toe is wanting, it becomes the inner anterior toe. It is never versatile. It rarely has only three joints, like the second toe. (128.)
Mid´dle Wing-cov´erts, or Me´dian Cov´erts. The series of upper coverts of the secondary set, situate in one or more rows between the greater and lesser coverts. They are usually recognized by their overlapping each other in the reverse direction (i.e. inner border of one overlapping outer border of the next one) from the others, whence they are sometimes called tectrices perversæ. (94.)
Migra´tion, n. Periodical (but sometimes irregular) journeyings, or change of abode, of birds at certain seasons, to secure food, climate, or other physical conditions of environment best suited to their wants. Migration is generally meridional (north-south), and believed by some to be mainly accomplished along a magnetic meridian; but it is often quite otherwise, influenced by topography, etc., or altogether capricious. In the Northern Hemisphere, the vernal migration is northward, the autumnal in the opposite direction.
Mime´sis, n. Mimicry; mocking; simulated resemblance in voice, shape, color, etc.
Mimet´ic, a. Imitative; given to mimicry. Mimetic analogy, simulated resemblance in superficial respects, such as many insects bear to the twigs or leaves they rest upon.
Mir´ror, n. See Speculum. (82.)
Mol´ecule, n. Embryo part of the impregnated ovum. See Cicatriculum.
Mol´lipilose, a. Softly downy.
Monog´amous, a. Pairing; mating with a single one of the opposite sex. Birds of which the male assists in incubation and care of the young are called doubly monogamous.
Monog´amy, n. The paired state.