ii8 



CHAFFINCH 



dently of one another. Much has been written upon 

 this remarkable occurrence, which has gained for the 

 bird its specific name " Ca^lebs ". The food of the 

 Chaffinch consists principally of insects, grain and the 

 seeds of weeds. It is a very watchful bird, and on the 

 approach of an enemy is generally the one to give the 

 note of warning to other small birds. Instances are 

 recorded of the Missel Thrush building its nest in close 



CHAFFINCH. 



proximity to that of the Chaffinch, apparently that it 

 may profit by the watchful guardianship of the latter. 

 The male is much sought after as a cage bird, as 

 much for his handsome plumage as for his song powers. 

 The general colour of the upper parts is slate grey, the 

 wings and tail are dark brown, the under parts are pale 

 chestnut shading into pink lower down. The nest of 

 the Chaffinch is a most beautiful and elaborate little 

 structure ; it is said that it often takes three weeks to 



