622 



EAPTORES, OR BIRDS OF PREY. 



also, are longer, and tlieir wings shorter. Their flight, too, is both 

 less high and less rajDid than that of the Falcon. They are found 

 in all parts of the globe, presenting some slight modifications due 

 to the influence of climate. They generally feed on small birds 

 and reptiles, and exceptionally on very small mammals. They 

 are divided into Goshawks proper and Sparrow-hawks. 



There are various species of the Goshawk, all characterised 

 by very strong tarsi, one only of which, the Common Goshawk, is 

 a native of Europe. 



The Common Goshawk (Fig. 295) is by no means rare in 

 France and England. In summer it frequents the oak and beech 



Fig. 295. — Goshawks (Astu7' palum- 

 barius). 



rig. 296. — Common Sparrow-hawk 

 {Accipiter yiisus). 



woods which cover the mountain-sides, and sometimes ventures 

 near habitations to carry ofi" Fowls and Pigeons. At the com- 

 mencement of autumn it descends into the plains, making its 

 nest on the skirts of some extensive wood, from which it darts 

 out upon Partridges, Grouse, or young Leverets, which form its 



