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NATURAL HISTORY. 



The WOODLARK is another of our British Larks, but differs 

 in some respects from the skylark. It is smaller, and can 

 perch on trees, a power denied to the skylark. It also sings 

 on the wing, but sometimes prefers to pour forth its notes 

 while perched on the branch of a tree. 



Its nest, like that of the skylark, is also placed on the 

 ground ; the eggs are darker than those of the skylark. 



Sub -family rj. Fyrrlndince. 

 PYRKII VLA. ( G r. 



RubiciHa (Lat. reddish), the Bullfinch. 



The BULLFINCH is a singular instance of the power of art 

 on the song of birds. The natural note of the Bullfinch is 

 low, and can only be heard at a short distance, but when 

 well trained the bird whistles, or " pipes," as it is called, any 

 melody which has been taught it, in a fine flute-like tone. 

 A good piping Bullfinch sells at a very high price. The 

 method of teaching, is to confine the birds in a dark room, 

 and before their food is given to play the air that they have to 

 learn, on an instrument called a bird-organ. The birds soon 



