CHAPTER OF VARIETIES. 103 



more of the shapg and general appearance of a mouse, while its glossy 

 black fur and long tail make it, in my opinion at least, a very handsome 

 animal*. 



T. M. G. 



Edinburgh. 



SPARROWS BUILDING IN WINTER. I was a good deal surprised 

 to-day, to see a sparrow with a large feather in its bill. It was sitting 

 on the ground when I first observed it, where it remained for some time, 

 while it looked about with as much caution and circumspection as they 

 generally do in spring, when they are afraid of their nest being dis- 

 covered. After a little it flew away with its treasure, but I could not 

 see where it went. I noticed one some time ago carrying off some 

 straws, but unfortunately neglected to note it down. The frost is at 

 present severe, and has been so for a day or two ; so that it cannot be 

 supposed that the sparrow intended to employ the feather in the con- 

 struction of a nest f . 



T. M. G. 



Edinburgh. 



JANUARY REMARKS. In the Field Diary of " Solitarius," in your 

 last number, he mentions not having met with any thing in the month 

 of January peculiar to it; and he states, under date of April 13th, 1833, 

 that the Pulex irritans " appeared," as if it were for the first time that 

 year. Now I captured a very fine one on the 15th of January instant. 

 I know not if you or your correspondent will think this worthy of 

 notice. I consider that in mild winters, like the present, this insect 

 may be found, not only in one particular month, but any day or night 

 during the season. 



I beg to add, that a solitary Musca domestica remained in my room up 

 to the 16th instant, since which it has disappeared. It seemed in a 

 very healthy and lively state, and there were others with it till very 

 lately. I should be glad to learn from you if these insects survive the 

 winter or not ? 



A friend brought me a short time ago a kitten with a double head, 

 complete in every respect, except that the two eyes, which came to- 



* Could T. M. G. favour us with a specimen or two of the stuffed skins, sent 

 to Messrs. Orr and Smith, through Messrs. Chambers, Edinburgh ? ED. 



f As the sparrow is very fond of warmth, (see Faculties of Birds, chap, i.) 

 might not this be for lining a roosting, not a breeding, nest ? ED. 



