212 THE SMALLER BRITISH BIRDS. 



shortened wings and tail; but in many of its habits it resembles the 

 Moorhen. 



The remaining three species in our group belong to the Turdinae, 

 or Thrush family. During the greater part of the year these birds 

 feed upon snails, slugs, and larvae, which they obtain in the fields and 

 pastures, but the various hedge berries form their chief food in severe 

 weather. In general form they are rather slender; their bills, wings, 

 and tails are o£ moderate length. The Missel Thrush, the largest of 

 the family, is a constant resident in this country, but the Fieldfare and 

 the Redwing are only winter visitors from the northern parts cf Europe. 



