Order VIII
Paludicole. - CRANES, RAILS, etc.
Toes four; middle toe without a comb, generally not webbed; hind toe generally small, higher than the front ones, or, if on the same level (Gallinules and Coots only), the bill is then comparatively short and stout and the forehead has a bare shield; lores feathered, or (Cranes) with hairlike bristles. 2 FIG. 23. 2 FIG. 24.
A. Smaller, bill under 3.00... Family Rallida: RAILS, GALLINULES, and COOTS (Fig. 22), p. 139.
B. Larger, bill over 3.00. a. Tarsus over 6.00.
Family Gruida: CRANES (Fig. 23), p. 137. b. Tarsus under 6.00.... Family Aramida: COURLANS (Fig. 24), p. 138. 11 T KEY TO FAMILIES. a d b C FIG. 25.