328 



INSECTIVOROUS BIRDS. 



To the Editor of the Analyst, 



SlR« 



The following remarks are a continuation of the subject com* 

 menced in your last number, on the great use and services of 

 insect-eating birds. Those of the genus Sylvia, and which are 

 only summer visitants, have been already noticed ; but there are 

 several of our native birds, belonging to that and other genera, 

 which are insectivorous, and equally descrying notice and pro* 

 tection. 



The first is the common wren, (Troglodytes Europceus,) which, 

 from the vivacity of action and song, and from its familiar habits 

 and harmless character, is a universal favourite. This little bird is 

 remarkable for building its nest like, and rearing its brood in, 

 a cave ; whence the specific name of Linnaeus, and generic name of 

 Cuvier, than which no name can be more appropriate as an 

 allusion to an ancient people called Troclodytce, who lived in caves. 

 This name is, however, carped at by Professor Rennie, who has 

 changed it to Anorthora, because> as it is supposed, the bird cocks 

 its tail ! 



The nest is usually built against the ivy-covered stem of a tree, 

 under the eaves of thatched buildings, and often within open shed^ 

 •or cattle hovels, where the little architect can find a bracket-like 

 projection out of the reach of cats or other natural enemies. The 

 nest is elliptical in shape, and chiefly composed of soft moss ; 

 liaving a small hole in the side as an entrance. In this almost 

 dark cave the eggs are laid, and a numerous brood are reared, in 

 number from ten to fourteen. Soon as the young are hatched, it 

 is amusing to witness the assiduity of the old pair in feeding their 

 helpless progeny. From day-light till dark their vigilance and 

 labour are incessant j hurrying backward and forward between the 

 nest and the thick bushes and trees where they find small cater- 

 pillars, spiders, and winged insects, which they quickly distribute 

 amongst their young. The cleanliness exhibited in the care of the 

 nursery is a remarkable trait in the character of this little bird, and 

 differs widely from that of some others, as the house-martin for 

 instance, whose nest is quite filthy before the young can fly. 

 Instinct, which guides them in forming such an enclosed nest, also 

 teaches the necessity of cleanliness. 



In the breeding season insects and their larva are plentiful, 

 so that both parents and progeny fare well ; but in winter the wren 

 has much difficulty in procuring food. In this severe season they 

 may be seen in search of insects which have secreted themselves in 

 crevices of buildings, bark of trees, or among the lichens and 

 mosses. In faggot piles, hay or corn stacks, overhanging banks 



