THE BULLFINCH. 48 9 
than a Thrush, it is distinguished by the possession of a bill which 
is about three-quarters of an inch long, not less than half an inch 
in thickness at the base, and of immense strength. It feeds on 
seeds, berries, and insects ; the lernels of the hardest fruits cannot 
resist the powerful implement 
with which it 4s provided. 
Widely diffused throughout 
Europe, it is always met with 
in France, where it appears 
in open country or woods, 
according to temperature. I: 
is a quarrelsome and unsoci- 
able bird; and if placed in 
confinement with others, it is 
certain to maltreat, and per- 
haps kill them. 
America possesses many 
species of this family, one 
having plumage of a fine rose 
colour. 
The Bullfinches (Pyrrhula 
vulgaris, Fig. 206) are pretty 
little birds. Their cheeks, 
breast, and belly are a bright 
brick colour, shaded with 
orange red; round the shoul- 
ders grey, with black heads. 
They feed on various kinds of 
seeds or berries. They are 
easily tamed, being of a gentle, 
docile disposition. Their at- 
tachment to their master, and Fig 205.—Grosbeak or Hawfinch. 
the ease with which they are 
taught to pipe, are their attractions. When in a state of freedom 
they construct their nests in the most inaccessible parts of thickets, 
usually in a black or white thorn bush, This is composed of small 
dry twigs, lined with fibrous roots. 
The Siskin (77ingil/a spinus, Fig. 207) may be mentioned among 
the numerous songsters which charm with their melodious notes. 
It is very pretty, although less richly coloured than the Goldfinch 
and others, its congeners. Neat and compact in form, its bill 
resembles that of the Goldfinch, but is more compressed, the two 
ee. 
