The New Student's Reference Work/Secretary-Bird

Sec′retary-Bird, a large bird of South Africa, receiving its name from the arrangement of a number of black and gray quills over the ear, in the position of a clerk's pen. It belongs with the birds of prey, but on account of its long legs, has been classed with the wading birds. From its eating snakes it has also received the name of the serpent-eater.

SECRETARY-BIRD

The bird is about four feet long from bill to tip of tail, which is about two feet long. The legs and neck are both long, and the body makes up only a small part of the bird. The general color of the plumage is clear gray. They are shy in their native haunts, but have been domesticated by Cape Colony farmers. Their favorite food seems to be frogs and toads, but lizards and many snakes are devoured. The nest is built high up in a tree, and two or three, large, white eggs are deposited. On the ground the bird walks with a stiff military gait, but can run with great swiftness.