194 



THE CHAFFINCH, OR PIEFINCH. 



Btump of a tree, or even on the ground. The female lays from ten to 

 eighteen eggs. The materials of the nest are generally adapted to the 

 place where it is formed. If against a hay-rick, its exteiior is com- 

 posed of hay: if against the side of 

 a tree clad with white lichens, it is 

 covered with that substance ; and, if 

 built against a tree covered with 

 green moss, or in a bank, its exterior 

 bears a similar correspondence. 



The lining is invariably of feathers. 

 The Wren does not, as is usual with 

 most other birds, begin the bottom of 

 its nest first. When against a tree, 

 its primary operation is to trace upon 

 the bark, the outline, and thus to 

 fasten it with equal strength to all 

 parts. It then, in succession, closes 

 the sides and top, leaving only a 

 small hole for entrance. If the nest ^^^ ^^^.^ 



be placed under a bank, the top is 



first begun and is well secured in some small cavity ; and by this the 

 fabric is suspended. 



The song of the Wren is much admired ; being a pleasing warble, 

 and louder than could be expected from the size of the bird. This it 

 continues throughout the year : these birds have been heard to sing 

 unconcerned even during a fall of snow. They also sing very late in 

 the evening ; though not, like the Nightingale, after dark. 



THE CHAFFINCH, OR PIEFINCH. 



The Chaffinch or Piefinch, as it is often called, is so well known 

 to need no description. It is 

 chiefly remarkable for the beau- 

 tiful nest which it constructs. The 

 forks of a thorn or a wild crab-tree 

 are favorite places for the nest, 

 which is composed of mosses, hair, 

 wool, and feathers, covered on the 

 exterior with lichens, and mosses, 

 so exactly resembling the bough 

 on which the nest is placed, that 

 the eye is often deceived by its ap- 

 pearance. In the nest four or five 

 very pretty eggs are laid: these are 

 of a reddish-brown color, sparely 

 marked with deep brown spots, 

 especially towards the larger end. 



The name Ccelebs or Bachelor, is given to this bird, because the 

 females quit this country about November, leaving large flocks of 

 males behind them. 



THE CHAmirOH. 



