268 



NATURAL HISTORY. 



LANIUS. 



Colluno (Gr. KoJiAvpiuy), the Red-backed Shrike. 



These impaled insects form a very good indication as to the 

 locality of the nests, and are probably placed there for food ; 

 certainly not, as some authors have stated, for the purpose 

 of decoying other birds to the spot in order to murder and 

 devour them. The nest and eggs much resemble those of the 

 Great Shrike, but are smaller. The length of the bird is seven 

 inches and a half. 



THE JAY. 



The CORVID.E are peculiarly remarkable for a kind of pre- 

 ternatural air of sagacity with which they set about any self- 

 imposed task, especially if that task be a mischievous one. 

 The ravens and magpies are most conspicuous in these quali- 

 ties. 



The JAY, so well known for the beautiful blue markings on 

 its wings, is rather a shy bird, preferring to reside in the 

 thickest woods, and seldom coming into the open country. 

 It is easily tamed when young, and is very amusing when 

 domesticated. 



