THE ORIOLES 



1527 



cousin is by no means so in India, where it often perches on a tree immediately over 

 the tent of the traveler, and there pours out its flute-like notes. In addition to 

 these flute-like tones, both sexes have also a cat-like call. The nest is usually 

 placed on a bough, and the young are attended with remarkable care by the parents. 

 Although feeding mainly upon insects, which are often taken on the ground, the 

 golden oriole during the fruit season lays toll on the orchard. The range of the 

 golden oriole includes the whole of Europe, except the extreme north, as well as 

 Persia and other parts of Southwestern Asia. In winter this species visits South 



THE GOI.DEN ORIOLE. 

 (One-half natural size.) 



Africa. The bright color of the male golden oriole renders it peculiarly liable to be 

 attacked by the sparrow hawk; and, in such a contingency, the oriole does not trust 

 to his thrush-like flight enabling him to elude his tormentor in the open, but on the 

 earliest opportunity seeks refuge in the densest thickets available as cover. The 

 oriole forms a good cage bird; although old birds are not easily reconciled to the. loss 

 of their freedom, and are apt to pine away. Young birds, on the other hand, are 

 easily tamed. 



