THE REDBREAST. 41 



all the little low projecting branches, in order that 

 they may discover earth-worms. This sort of red- 

 breast chase is very common in Thuringia, where 

 many persons keep them. Limed twigs may also be 

 put in a bare place with earth- or meal-worms, just as 

 for the dunnock. The small nightingale net and the 

 whitethroat trap catch many. They are also caught 

 at the water- trap; but the greatest number are caught 

 in autumn with the noose, baited with elderberries, 

 which are at that season their favorite food. If they 

 are caught for the room (and it is a pity to hunt so 

 pretty a bird for the table), it is necessary, in order 

 to preserve their feet, to cover the springes with felt 

 or cork. 



Eedpole. In the spring and autumn the lesser red- 

 poles may be taken in flocks in the area or barn -floor 

 trap, with a decoy of their own species, or even with 

 a siskin. Many may also be caught with such a decoy 

 on a decoy bush. They are so silly, or so confiding, 

 that they will even allow themselves to be taken close 

 by the bird-catcher, who is collecting their entrapped 

 companions. This stupidity, or simplicity, is common 

 in all birds that come from the more remote northern 

 parts. Brought up far from man, and out of reach of 

 his pursuit, they know not that fear and distrust which 

 is felt by those that inhabit populous countries. 



Redstart. Sticks covered with birdlime should be 

 placed across the hedges frequented by these birds; 

 they must then be driven gently towards them. They 

 are also attracted under nets, and amongst limed twigs 

 baited with meal-worms. In autumn they may be 

 taken in nooses, by suspending elderberries near them, 

 either in orchards or thickets. Those intended for the 

 house should be taken in bird-traps or springes, taking 

 care that the wooden part be covered with felt or 



