CHAP. 44.—THE MELANCORYPHUS, THE ERITHACITS, AND THE
PHŒNICURUS.
The change is different that takes place in the ficedula, [Note]
for this bird changes its shape as well as its colour. "Ficedula" is the name by which it is called in autumn, but not
after that period; for then it is called "melancoryphus." [Note] In
the same manner, too, the erithacus [Note] of the winter is the
"phœnicurus" of the summer. The hoopoe also, according
to the poet Æschylus, changes its form; it is a bird that feeds
upon filth [Note] of all kinds, and is remarkable for its twisted topknot, which it can contract or elevate at pleasure along the top
of the head.
