The Pied Wagtail 



the side of the stream for the frequent bath which has 

 earned for this species the name of " Polly Dishwasher." 



When the nest, which is composed of grass and bents 

 lined with horsehair, is completed, the six grey and speckled 

 eggs are laid and incubation, which is solely carried on by 

 the hen, begins. 



If we did not know the habits of our friend, the first 

 signs of his presence in the garden would be when he flies 

 up to feed his mate with some special titbit, and then as he 

 jumps out from the ivy we see him winging his way with 

 elegant flight across the meadow to his favourite feeding- 

 ground. In due course the young are hatched, and as the 

 needs of the growing family become greater, we can often see 

 the parents coming and going with unceasing energy till 

 night brings compulsory rest to their labours. When the 

 young leave the nest they are almost immediately taken 

 into the grass fields, where the flies, attracted by the feeding 

 cattle, offer them an easy livelihood. 



September comes, and in company with the Meadow 

 Pipits, they wander over the country and along the salt 

 marshes near the sea previous to seeking other countries, or 

 settling in the warmer parts of England near some sheltered 

 farm where they may find food until the returning spring 

 reminds them of their old haunts, or impels the younger 

 generation to seek a mate and home. 



In winter the sexes are alike, and grey in general colour 

 with dark wings and tail (except the two outer feathers, which 

 are white), while the inner secondaries are also broadly edged 

 with white ; under parts white. 



In summer the chin and back are black, the forehead 



87 



