82 THE BIRDS OF SHERWOOD FOREST. 
dark brown spots, more numerous towards the larger 
end. 
The majority of our woods are oak and ash, chiefly the 
former; but here and there a plantation of Scotch fir 
and spruce is tenanted by that tiny monarch, the Gold- 
crest (Regulus cristatus). Though often overlooked 
because of its diminutive size, its sprightly habits make 
it worthy of attention, and with a little caution it may 
be safely approached without exciting its alarm. It is 
constantly in motion, like the titmice, and assumes every 
possible position. 
It is singular how so small a bird survives the rigours 
of our cold season; but it really is very hardy, and in 
the depth of winter may be seen busy as ever, searching 
for its daily food, as if constant motion was absolutely 
necessary to maintain its bodily warmth; indeed, I do 
not remember ever seeing one indulging in the luxury 
of rest in the daytime. 
It is my impression that they are more numerous 
with us in the winter than the summer, as if we received 
a partial migration from the north at that time ; but I 
may be mistaken. 
Its compact nest, formed chiefly of moss, is neatly 
suspended under a bough of a spruce or fir, and requires 
a sharp eye to discover it. 
The titmice are a very interesting family of birds, 
and, though little in size, they seem determined not to 
remain unnoticed amongst their neighbours. Their 
constant activity and grotesque attitudes make them 
very amusing, and though some of them do not escape 
the censure of the gardener, yet few of our feathered 
friends are, I believe, more truly beneficial to us. Insects 
form the staple of their food, and, from their incessant 
