BRITISH BIRDS' NESTS. 



395 



a bird royal when at large and unmarked, and is 

 consequently afforded protection. Notes : soft and 

 low, plaintive, and of little variety. Local or 

 other name : Common Swan. Male and female 

 Swans are called "Cob" and "Pen" respectively 

 on the Thames. A close sitter. 



SWAN CARRYING CYGNETS. 



SWIFT. 



(Cypselus apus.) 

 Order PICARLE ; Family CYPSELIM: (SWIFTS). 



Description of Parent 

 Birds. Length about eight 

 inches ; beak very short, 

 black, and with an extra- 

 ordinary width of gape. 

 The whole of the plumage 

 is a dingy-black, except the 

 chin, which is of a dirty- 

 white colour. The tail is of 

 medium length^and forked, 

 and the wings very long and sword-like ; legs, toes, and 

 claws black. The feet have all the four toes in front. 



SWIFT 



ROPE. 



