34 BIRDS OF TUNISIA 



together in the early spring. Later on, however, the birds are 

 always to be met with in pairs. Although generally to be found 

 perching on low bushes, or on the ground, this Chat may sometimes 

 be seen on railings, posts, or telegraph wires, and I have shot 

 specimens when thus perching. Naturally rather shy and wary, the 

 present species, like many other birds, becomes doubly so when it 

 perceives that it is being watched or followed, and under such 

 circumstances a near apjDroach to it is extremely difficult. Many a 

 chase used I to have after these birds when wishing to secure them 

 in pairs. 



In its flight this Chat does not differ greatly from the common 

 Wheatear, skimming along usually two or three feet above the surface 

 of the ground, and at times darting from side to side. It does not, 

 as a rule, make a long flight, except when pursued, and then it is 

 capable of flying a considerable distance. Occasionally, during the 

 nesting season, this Chat may be observed hovering in mid air, like 

 a Lark, at a considerable height from the ground. 



Its song, generally uttered when perching on a bush or stone, is 

 pleasing, though not very powerful or varied. 



Its food consists chiefly of insects of different kinds, and in some 

 parts of Tunisia almost entirely of coleoptera. 



S. catciiiim generally breeds on a low hill-side, or on broken 

 rugged ground, where it places its nest under a rock, or tussock of 

 grass or other plant. The nest is rather a flat structure, composed 

 of dry bents and fibres, loosely put together, and lined with a little 

 hair or wool. The eggs, four or five in number, are of a rich bluish- 

 green, spotted, chiefly at the blunt end, with russet-brown spots. 

 Average measurements 19 X 14 mm. The nesting season extends 

 throughout April, May and June. 



The smaller figure in the accompanying plate shows the light 

 colour of the under-wing in this species. 



