188 BIRDS. 



19. The Larks. 



[Two residents (partially migratory) ; one regular, three 

 irregular visitors.] 



The Skylark, or " Laverock," is, though partially migra- 

 tory in cold weather, a strictly resident bird. Different 

 races are recognised by ornithologists, but the 

 ^ ^^ ' amount of red in the speckled plumage seems 

 the only mark of distinction. The white tail-feathers and 

 the great length of the hind-claw distinguish it from the 

 smaller woodlark, the only bird with which it is likely 

 to be confused. Already widely distributed, it is even 

 extending its range and increasing in numbers wherever 

 its enemies the hawks are kept under. This lark is most 

 familiar as, in spring, it soars up into the blue, voice 

 vibrating, wings beating, tail stretched out like a fan, 

 the bird ascending rapidly, not straight but obliquely. 

 At last it is a mere speck ; then, after a motionless pause, 

 slowly descends the singer, with jerky progress, a last 

 halt, and, with wings folded and voice stilled, down like 

 an arrow into the long grass. Not straight into the nest 

 either, but some little distance away, reaching its treasures 

 by rapid running. It has been observed to perch ; and it 

 occasionally sings on the ground. It feeds on insects 

 and seeds, and is said to do some damage among the 

 clover and corn. The nest, a simple affair of grass lined 

 with finer grass or hair, is placed on the ground, usually 

 beneath some tuft in open fields. I have also found 

 many on the sea -shore only a few yards above high- 

 water mark. Eggs^ 3 to 5 (second brood only 3), nearly 

 I inch ; dark brown or grey, with numerous spots and 

 mottlings. 



The smaller Woodlark is easily distinguished by the more 

 conspicuous white stripe over the eye and the shorter tail. 

 It is more local in its distribution than the last, being 



