THE MOCKING-BIRD. 531 
{n the South of Europe this species is much sought after, on 
account of the exquisite flavour which its flesh acquires from living 
on myrtle and juniper berries. 
The Ring Blackbird (AZerwa torguata) differs from the kind we 
have just noticed in being of larger size, and in evincing a predilec- 
tion for mountainous countries. It sings very agreeably, and in 
France is found on the high summits of the Vosges, the Alps, and 
the Pyrenees. 
The Solitary Blackbird (merde d/eu of the French) is remarkable 
Fig. 24x.—The Mocking-bird. 
for the deep blue colour of its plumage. It frequents the same re- 
gions as the bird last described, and its habits are nearly the same, 
but it is wilder in its nature, and its song is even still more charming. 
We read in the chronicles of his time that Francis I. was never weary 
of listening to the strains of one he possessed. ‘This bird is common 
in the South of Europe, and the whole of the Levant, and when it is 
tamed acquires considerable value. 
Of all the various species of the Meru/ide the one which is un- 
questionably the most favoured, as regards its vocal powers, is the 
Mocking-bird, or Polyglot Thrush (AZ@imus fpolyglottus, Fig. 241), 
native of North America, and chiefly of the Southern States. Its 
notes are so melodious that the conscientious Audubon does not 
