During the civil wars that took place at Bebriacum, beyond the river Padus, the "new birds"[1] were introduced into Italy —for by that name they are still known. They resemble the thrush in appearance, are a little smaller than the pigeon in size, and of an agreeable flavour. The Balearic islands also send us a porphyrio,[2] that is superior to the one previously mentioned. There the buteo, a kind of hawk, is held in high esteem for the table, as also the vipio,[3] the name given to a small kind of crane.