A bird of another closely allied genus, Chionis alba, is an inhabitant of the antarctic regions; it feeds on seaweed and shells on the tidal rocks.

Although not web-footed, from some unaccountable habit it is frequently met with far out at sea.

This small family of birds is one of those which, from its varied relations to other families, although at present offering only difficulties to the systematic naturalist, ultimately may assist in revealing the grand scheme, common to the present and past ages, on which organised beings have been created.
The genus Furnarius contains several species, all small birds, living on the ground, and inhabiting open dry countries.

In structure they cannot be compared to any European form.
Ornithologists have generally included them among the creepers, although opposed to that family in every habit.

The best known species is the common oven-bird of La Plata, the Casara or housemaker of the Spaniards.