162 POPULAR SCRIPTURE ZOOLOGY.

Eagles, or those of smaller size and comparatively feebler
powers*.”

The Golden Eagle (Aguila chrysaétos, Plate X.) is the
largest of the European eagles, the extent of its wings
being above seven feet; its general colour is deep brown,
rather tawny on the head and neck, the feathers on the
back being shaded with a darker hue; the legs are yellow,
short, and very strong, feathered to the feet, which are
armed with powerful claws. This species is found in va-
rious parts of Europe and Asia, and occasionally in Ireland,
Scotland, and Wales.

The White-tailed Eagle (Haliatos alvicilla) inhabits
northern Europe and Asia, and is found in Scotland: the
general colour of the plumage is brown, the breast being
spotted with white; sides of the head and neck pale ash mixed
with reddish-brown ; the legs are bright yellow; the claws
black. It is a strong and fierce bird, building its nest on
lofty trees, and usually laying two or three eggs. This
species is supposed by many commentators to be the “ ossi-
frage” of Leviticus xi.; others think a falcon, vulture, or
the black eagle is intended, but it is very difficult to identify
many of the birds there named.

* British Cyclopedia.