204 MEADOW PIPIT. 



authors. This bird is in some districts ex- 

 tremely abundant, and is distributed generally, 

 where the locality is suitable, over our islands 

 from north to south. Its most favourite haunts 

 are the meadow lands, in England, the downs 

 or commons, particularly those of a muirish 

 character ; and in Scotland, all the extensive 

 ranges of low muir. In these situations it breeds, 

 arriving in spring in great numbers near its places 

 of incubation, and again partially departing after 

 these duties have been performed ; and at times 

 in spring and autumn it may be seen in flocks. 

 It runs swiftly, feeding principally on insects, 

 but occasionally also on seeds. In winter, it 

 selects the moist places, or the sides of upland 

 rills ; and in severe weather, it retires to the lower 

 unenclosed pastures. In spring, it enlivens the 

 muirs and more solitary downs by its numbers 

 and its manner of singing while on the wing. 

 This is practised by all our species ; and at this 

 period of the year, on a beautiful morning, where 

 the common Meadow Pipit is abundant, one may 

 almost be constantly observed rising on the wing, 

 or when, having attained a height of from forty 

 to fifty feet, falling slowly with motionless wings 

 and outspread tail, singing its gentle and little 

 varied lay. At other times the song is even more 

 simple, consisting of not more than two notes, 

 and is uttered only when alarmed or intruded on. 

 The nest is placed at the root of some hillock, 

 tuft, or small bush, a structure warmly and neatly 

 lined within, and often carefully concealed. The 



