258 WHITE OR BARN OWL. 



both in keeping close and in clamour. The same 

 scene takes place when the Owl happens to he 

 discovered by these birds reposing in some thicket, 

 and they generally have an assistant in the small 

 blue titmouse, which is even bolder in making 

 attack. The bird all the while sits motionless with 

 a drowsy glimmer of the eyes, and I am not sure 

 that he is ever fairly turned out of his retreat. 

 The same motive seems here to attract these little 

 birds, as occurs when a cat or fox is discovered 

 strolling through the thicket ; the prowler may 

 be at once discovered to any one acquainted with 

 the peculiar cries uttered by the clamorous host of 

 tiny pursuers. 



In confinement, the White Owl is easily tamed, 

 and becomes familiar, sitting in some corner, or 

 hole made on purpose, during the day; but if 

 disturbed, occasionally rising and eating its food. 

 Towards evening it becomes active, and will then 

 come playfully to the person accustomed to be 

 near, putting on the attitudes of a raptorial bird, 

 and coming forward with freedom, and without 

 alarm. 



The plumage of an adult bird of this species is 

 beautifully clean and pure. An old male pro- 

 cured many years since reposing in an old chimney 

 in company with its mate, is the purest in tint we 

 have seen. The whole face, ruff, sides of the neck, 

 lower parts and thighs, are of the most silky and 

 unsullied white, a slight tinge of reddish brown 



