FHINGILLID^. 



oesopliagus being dilated into a small crop, in which 

 seeds are stored and partially softened; and they 

 are possessed of a powerful gizzard for the commi- 

 nution of their food. In some species, the colours 

 of the plumage are exceedingly rich and beautifully 

 combined, but the majority are clad in dull and 

 homely attire. The race of Finches is distributed 

 throughout all the temperate parts of the world, and 

 some are even met with in the Arctic regions, since 

 wherever vegetation exists seeds are produced, and 

 these, as we have seen, constitute their principal 

 food. 



The birds belonging to this family usually frequent 

 open and cultivated places, but some prefer ^ald 

 mountainous districts. They live in flocks, several 

 species sometimes associating together, especially 

 during the winter months. Those that reside in the 

 more northern parts of Europe migrate periodically 

 to the warmer provinces ; and those that frequent 

 the mountains seek the lower ground on the a^Dproach 

 of winter. Their song consists of three or four 

 notes, which in some, though short, possess great 

 sweetness, and are varied in delivery. Their nest is 

 placed upon trees and in the bushes of mountainous 

 districts, or else in those of gardens, orchards, and 

 plantations. It is composed of grass, moss, and 

 lichens interwoven with wool, and lined interiorly 

 with feathers and h^ir. The eggs are four or five in 

 number. 



This exten'sive family comprehends the Weaver- 

 birds, the Hawfinches, the Tanagers, the Finches, 

 the Buntings, the Larks, the Bullfinches, the Cross- 

 bills, and the Plant-cutters. 



