1 14 Among the Birds in Northern Shires. 



should say there is a month or more between the nest- 

 ing season in north and south respectively. We have 

 known of Devonshire nests as early as March, of 

 Nottingham ones as late as May. Possibly this Lark 

 is only double-brooded in the more southern portions 

 of its British range. The birds seem much attached 

 to certain spots, and, like the Tree Pipit, seldom 

 wander far from their nesting grounds throughout 

 the breeding season. Unlike the Sky-lark, which 

 very exceptionally indeed perches upon a bush or a 

 tree, the Wood-lark may be constantly seen high up 

 the branches. Indeed, like the Tree Pipit, the cock 

 bird selects some favourite branch, and here early 

 and late he sits, and ever and anon flies out and 

 upwards to warble his rich and joyous song. There 

 are those who maintain that the song of the Wood- 

 lark is even superior to that of the Sky-lark. It 

 may be to some extent a matter of taste, and possibly 

 they are right; but on the other hand the song of 

 the Sky-lark is far better known, more popular with 

 the multitude, and w^e always thinks it seems more 

 cheerful, as it certainly is somewhat louder. The 

 Wood-lark has more flute-like music in his voice, 

 more melody, and even more continuity. There are 

 not a few persons that confuse the two birds to- 

 gether, although the Wood-lark may be readily dis- 

 tinguished by its short tail, more rounded wing, and 

 its habit of perching in trees. One has only to 



