344 BIRDS OF SOMERSETSHIRE. 
‘The food of the Oystercatcher does not, as is 
generally supposed, consist of oysters, but of shell- 
fish generally; oysters no doubt amongst the num- 
ber, if it can catch them, but they are generally in too 
deep water to give the bird a chance, as it does not 
seek its food by diving; mussels, shrimps, limpets 
(which it detaches from the rocks with its powerful 
beak), worms, shore-worms and marine insects make 
up its bill of fare. Dr. Saxby* says it carries its 
shell-fish to some convenient spot before it eats 
them, just as the Thrush carries its snails to a stone 
to break them, and that in such spots the shells 
accumulate in considerable numbers. It does not 
appear to me to do much feeding during the day, 
but to sit quietly on the rocks, either pluming its 
feathers or half asleep, but always with one eye open, 
as anyone will find who tries to get a shot at it. 
Although naturally a wild bird and difficult of ap- 
proach, it is easily kept in confinement, and becomes 
very tame, especially if taken when young. It is 
considered a useful bird in the garden, as it eats 
snails and worms, and failing these it may be fed on 
bread, meat, cooked vegetables and rice. It swims 
easily, but I do not know that I have ever seen it 
take to the water of its own accord, but if wounded 
it will swim very well and dive a little. 
The Oystercatcher is a fine handsome bird, and 
* § Zoologist’ for 1865, p. 9590. 
