like the
kingfisher, sat solitarily upon a projecting stump, now and then dashing
into the shallow water, and scooping up the small fishes, frogs, and
Crustacea with its huge mandibles.

Another curious bird was observed, which had something of the appearance
of the water-hen--to which kind it is also assimilated in its habits.
It was the "faithful jacana," or "chuza," as it is called in some
places. There are several species of "jacana" in South America, and
also some species in the tropical countries of the East. That known as
the "faithful jacana" has a body about the size of a common fowl; but
its legs and neck are longer, so that when standing it is a foot and a
half in height. The body is of a brownish colour; and there is a crest
of twelve black feathers on the nape of the neck, three inches in
length. At the bend of the wings there are horny spurs, half an inch
long, with which the bird can defend itself when attacked. It is,
however, a pacific bird, and only uses them in defence. The most
singular character of the jacana is its long toes and claws. There are
four upon each foot: three in front, and one directed backwards, and
when standing these cover a base nearly as large as the body of the
bird; and, indeed, upon ordinary ground they interfere with the freedom
of its walking. But these spreading feet were not designed for ordinary
ground. They were given it to enable it to pass lightly _over_ the
leaves of water-lilies, and other yielding surfaces, through which a
narrow-footed bird would at once sink. Of course as nature designed
them for this purpose, they answer admirably, and the jacana skims along
the surface of lily-covered ponds or streams without sinking. From the
leaves it picks up such insects and larvae as lodge there, and which
form its principal food.

The jacana utters a singular cry when alarmed. It remains silent during
the whole day, and also at night, unless disturbed by the approach of
some danger, when it utters its "alarm cry." So quick is its ear, that
it can detect the least noise or rustling caused by any one approaching.
For this reason some tribes of Indians have tamed the jacana, and use
it as a sentinel or "watch-dog," to apprise them of the approach of
their enemies during the darkness of the night. Another use is also
made of it by the Spanish-Americans. It is tamed and allowed to go
about along with the domestic poultry. When these are attacked by hawks
or ot