240 THE USEFUL BIRDS 



named CJiihonicola sagittata. By this name it is known 

 universally. 



The Striped Groimd-Tit is a groimd-loving bird, and is 

 easily recognized by the markings on its under surface, which 

 resemble tiny black arrows shooting through its plumage. 

 How very carefully the nest is concealed is only known to 

 those who have sought for it, and one might hunt for days 

 without success unless the system necessary to the fuiding of 

 ground birds' nests is adopted. Patience is the virtue ever to 

 be commended. Under a small cluster of leaves of any native 

 shrub, and with the upper portion closely mimicking its 

 surroundings, a dome-shaped, side-entranced nest is placed 

 upon, and partly in, the ground, and of material loosely yet 

 symmetrically put together. Dimensions, 7x4x4 inches. 



The eggs, which are laid each alternate day, are strangely 

 overlaid with uniform dark chocolate. Nature has certainly 

 provided ample protection to the bird through its habit and 

 colour, to the nest in the manner of its position, and, as if these 

 two were not sufficient, to the eggs in simulating the colour 

 of their surroundings. Even a fox, that finds the Sericornis' 

 nest and devours its contents, will need to use more than its 

 powers of sight to be successful in finding that of the Ground- 

 Tit. The young birds early assume the garb of their parents. 



Nest. — Dome-shaped, side entrance ; placed upon the 

 ground in a slight depression, and covered with mosses to 

 appear like its surroundings, built of grass, and lined with 

 feathers. 



Eggs. — Three or four to a clutch ; much swollen ; bright 

 chocolate appearance, no spots. Length, 0.75 inch ; breadth, 

 0.6 inch. 



