THE BIRDS OF CUMBERLAND. D 



not-to-be-mistaken notes were heard for the first 

 time in the woods of Netherby, where, since then, 

 it has nested regularly. 



P. Trochilus. Willow Warbler. 



The Willow Wren is a common summer visitant, 

 and has latterly increased in numbers in the north 

 of the county. Though later in arrival than the 

 Chiff Chaff, it is an early nester, but its passage ap- 

 pears to be protracted considerably. Thus, in 1885, a 

 large influx of Willow Wrens occurred in the Carlisle 

 district about April 19th, but on the 20th of the 

 May following Mr, Nott observed hundreds of this 

 species fluttering on the lantern of St. Bees light- 

 house, together with a few common Whitethroats ; 

 and, as he kindly sent us specimens, there is no doubt 

 as to the identity of the species. The domed nest 

 of the Willow Wren is built of moss, dried grass, and 

 dead leaves, and is lined with a warm quilting of 

 feathers. 



It is usually placed on the ground, generally under 

 the shelter of a small plantation, and is by no means 

 difficult to find if the anxious motions of the old 

 birds be carefully watched. 



In some rare instances the nest is slightly 

 elevated. Mr. Shepherd lately found a nest of the 

 Willow Wren placed in a short scrubby hazel bush 

 about two feet from the ground, and caught one of 

 the old birds sitting upon seven eggs. Another was 

 discovered by Mr. Plenderleath in a spruce fir about 

 two feet from the ground, and we found a third built 

 into some brambles at the same height. Yet another 



