eae 
III. Where, when, and in what numbers found. 
Universally and plentifully distributed over all open lands in the United Kingdom 
throughout the year, chiefly preferring the farm districts in the breeding season. It almost 
deserts its extreme northern haunts in winter, but repairs to high lands in the midland and 
southern counties. 
IV. Food. 
A certain amount of grain, a large number of seeds of injurious weeds, an enormous 
quantity of grubs and insects, and the green leaves of a few small plants. 
VY. Characteristics. 
Soaring and singing are perhaps the principal characteristics of the Skylark as known in 
field, in song, and in story, but these are chiefly signs of spring and summer. Later in the 
year Skylarks spend most of their time running about in search of seeds and insects in the 
long grass and ripening corn. In autumn they “ pack,” and patrol the open fields in large 
companies. In winter these same flocks, with the migrants that have joined them, drift to 
and fro in search of food, and, unlike the custom of most small birds in winter, frequent 
high ground. 
VI. Protection. 
Wild Birds Protection Act, 1880.—This bird did not appear in the Schedule, but was 
added by the Act of 1881, which applies to every county in England, Scotland, and Ireland. 
Any owner, occupier, or other person taking, killing, etc..a Skylark during the close 
season,* or possessing or selling a Skylark after March 15th, is liable to a penalty of £1 for 
each bird. 
Wild Birds Protection Act, 1894.—The eggs are protected at present (1898) in the 
specified breeding areas and the following counties :— 
Enatanp.—-Lancaster (south of the Ribble); London (including Middlesex and 
Metropolitan Police District). 
Scornanp.—Aberdeen ; Berwick ; Elgin; Fife (Tentsmuir); Haddington ; Kirkcudbright ; 
Midlothian ; and Wigtown. 
Any owner, occupier, or other person taking or destroying the eggs of the Skylark in 
either of the above-named counties or specified areas is liable to a fine of £1 for each egg. 
Wild Birds Protection Act, 1896.—In addition to any penalty under the Act of 1880, 
the Court may now order any trap, net, snare, etc., used by the offender to be forfeited. 
* Generally from 1st March to Ist August; but in some counties from 1st February to 1st September in 
each year. A further period is obtainable through the Act of 1896. 
