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IHE TAILOR BIRD.' 



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This miniito species, measuring only ttree inches and a half long, is a native of Hindo- 

 stan, Ceylon, and other parts of the East. Its general plumage is pale olive: the chin 

 and throat yellow; the under parts dusky white; its weight about ninety grains. 



Living in coiuitries where snakes and monkeys arc formidable enemies to the feathered 

 tribes, this little bird selects a leaf at the extremity of a pendant twig for its cradle. If 

 this leaf be large enough, it draws the edges together, so as to form a pouch, the end of 

 which is so arranged as to assist in supporting the nest within. But if the leaf be too small, 

 the bird adds to it another growing by, and sometimes a dead one, sewing this to the 

 other, that it may form a convenient receptacle for its nest. This is composed of down, 

 intermingled with tibres and a few feathers. Thus the yomig are provided with a snug 

 and secure abode, though it rocks to and fro in the breeze. Many have examined this 

 curious product with liAely interest, but there are very few who can say with Forbes: 

 "Often have I watched the progress of an industrious paii' of Tailor Birds, from their 

 first choice of u plant, until the completion of the nest, and the enlargement of the 

 young." 



:5\lViM Sutoiia, 



