THE MERLIN. U)o 



In the winter, when the greenfinches collect in large Hocks on the stubble fields, I have 

 frequently seen the merlin or sparrow-hawk suddenly glide round the angle of some hedge- 

 row or plantation, and taking up a bird from the middle of the flock, carry it off almost 

 before his presence is observed by the rest of the greenfinches." 



Sometimes two merlins hunt together, and, as it were, course a lark, or even swallow, 

 in the air, the two hawks assisting each other in the most systematic manner. First one 

 hawk chases the unfortunate bird for a short time, while his companion hovers cjuietly at 

 hand ; in a minute or so, the latter relieves his fellow-hunter, who in his turn rests. In 

 this way they soon tire out the lark or swallow ; and catching the poor bird in mid-air, 

 one of the hawks flies away with him, leaving his companion to hunt alone till his return 

 from feeduig their yoimg bi'ood. 



