118. Caprimulgus, goatsucker. Beak very small, incurved, depressed at the base; large bristles; the mouth very wide: 2 species.
The class of Birds comprehends 930 species, which are characterized by the colours of the plumage, the forms of the feathers, the existence of wattles, spurs, and various other circumstances.
The third class, Amphibia, is composed of animals not, strictly speaking, capable of living both in air and in water, but having the power of suspending their respiration in a more arbitrary manner than others. They are arranged under four orders:—
I. Reptiles. Amphibious animals respiring through the mouth by means of lungs; and furnished with four feet.
To this order belong the tortoises, dragons, crocodiles, lizards, toads, and frogs, which are disposed into four genera, containing 83 species.
II. Serpentes, Serpents. Respiring through the mouth by means of lungs; destitute of feet, fins, and ears.
There are six genera, and 132 species.
III. Meantes, Gliders. Respiring by means of gills and lungs; furnished with feet and claws.
There is only one species, the lizard-syren of Carolina.