226 THE HUMAN SIDE OF BIRDS 



The redbird is an exceptionally good actor, and 

 uses every art known to the actor in expressing him- 

 self. For instance, if he is angry, he drops the crest 

 on his head and reaches out his neck as he snaps his 

 beak with great rapidity, adding little hisses that 

 are unmistakable; if he is lonely, especially late at 

 night, he utters low sad chirping notes, reminding 

 one of the languishing call of a whippoorwill ; if he 

 becomes frightened he utters sharp, nervous calls; 

 help is needed! But when he wishes to express joy 

 or satisfaction he uses the tenderest notes, and his 

 voice is so modulated that no one could mistake his 

 feeling. He is an actor of the highest type, and his 

 every emotion has its physical poise of body to ac- 

 company it. 



The starling is an actor, or rather a merry clown, 

 of very remarkable abilities. He is sociable, and 

 ready to amuse whenever an audience appears ; one 

 is reminded of the words of Hurdis: 



"High on the topmost branches of the elm 

 In sable conversation sits the flock 

 Of social starlings, the withdrawing beam 

 Enjoying, supperless, of hasty day." 



He is always in a good humour, and is equally at 

 home under all circumstances. He radiates joy at 

 all times and under all conditions. A cloudy day or 



