5i8 



REPTILES AND BIRDS. 



from the trees ; selecting broad resistant leaves, it drills them with 

 its bill, sews them together with the cotton which it has prepared, 

 and in this manner constructs a bag which serves the purpose of 

 completely hiding its nest from the observation of enemies. This 

 species belongs to India and the islands of the Indian Ocean, and is 

 unknown in Europe. 



Fig. 228. The Robin or Redbreast. 



The Robin or Redbreast (Erythacus rubecula, Fig. 228), is too 

 familiar a friend to require description. It is lively, pert, pugnacious, 

 cheerful, and a universal favourite. In April the Robin betakes itself 

 to the woods and thickets, where it rears its brood. On the ap- 

 proach of winter it returns to civilised life, when, we are informed 

 by a French author, it constitutes excellent game ! No doubt it is 

 edible ; but where is the consumer of such to be found ? Not in 

 the British Empire, we hope. 



The Wrens (Regulus) are the smallest of European birds. The 

 Golden-crested Wren (Reguhis cristatus] inhabits the woods and thickets 



