Alcedo, or Ceryle

(Zool.) A genus of birds, family Alcedinide. Two species are found in the U. S.; the common kingfisher or Ceryle Halcyon, about 13 inches long; and the Texas kingfisher, Ceryle Ameri can a, only 8 inches long. When watching for its prey, the kingfisher perches itself upon some overhanging branch, with its long dagger-like bill pointed down ward, and its eye intent upon the water beneath. Suddenly, it darts downward, plunges headlong into the water, Fig. 73.-KINGFISHER, ( Ceryle Halcyon .) and speedily reappears with a minnow or other small fish between us mandibles. Without losing its hold, it pa es the fish through its bill until it has fairly grasped it by the tail, and then destroys its life by smartly striking its head three or four times against the branch, after which it gulps its prey at one mouthful, except when it bears it away to the nest for the supply of the young. The fishbones, scales, and other indigestible parts are afterward disgorged by the mouth. Alchemically, adv. In an alchemical manner. Al'chemilla, n. ( Bot.) A genus of plants, ord. San guisorbacece. q. v.