210 OMNIVOROUS BIRDS. 



The Crow is a constant and troublesomely abundant 

 resident in most of the settled districts of North America. 

 They only retire into the forests in the breeding season, 

 which takes place from March to May. At this time they 

 are dispersed through the woods in pairs, and roost in the 

 neighbourhood of the spot which they have selected for 

 their nest; and the conjugal union, once formed, continues 

 for life. They are now very noisy and vigilant against any 

 intrusion on their purpose, and at times appear influenced 

 by mutual jealousy, but never proceed to any violence. 

 The tree they select is generally lofty, and preference 

 seems often given to some dark and concealing ever- 

 green. The nest is formed externally of small twigs, 

 coarsely interlaced together, plastered and matted with 

 earth, moss, and long horse-hair, and thickly and carefully 

 lined with large quantities of the last material, wool, or 

 the finest fibres of roots, so as to form a very comfortable 

 bed for the helpless and naked young. The eggs are 4 to 6, 

 of a pale and dirty green, marked with numerous blotches 

 and streaks of blackish brown or olive. 



The male at this season is extremely watchful, recon- 

 noitring the neighbourhood, and giving an alarm as any 

 person happens to approach towards their nest, when both 

 retire to a distance till the intruder disappears ; and in 

 order the better to conceal their helpless brood, they re- 

 main uncommonly silent, until these are in a situation to 

 follow them on the wing. The male also carries food to 

 his mate while confined to her eggs, and at times relieves 

 her by sitting in her absence. In Europe, when the 

 Raven, the Buzzard, or the Kestril makes his appear- 

 ance, the pair join instantly in the attack, and sometimes, 

 by dint of furious blows, destroy their enemy ; yet the 

 Butcher-bird, more alert and courageous, not only resists, 

 but often vanquishes the Crows, and carries off their 



