& THE RINGDOVE 



of the bullfinch is well adapted for feeding on seeds and buds. 

 The natural note of the bullfinch is low and can only be heard at a 

 short distance, but when tamed and well-trained, the bird whistles, 

 or " pipes," as it is called, any melody which has been taught it, 



FIG. 37. THE COCK (LOWER) AND HEN (UPPER) BULLFINCH ON DOCK. 



in a fine flute-like tone. A good piping bullfinch sells at a high 

 price, as much as 5 being demanded for a single bird. 



The RINGDOVE or CUSHAT (Coluwba palumbus),Fig. 112, belongs to 

 the family Columbidae or Doves, and is the largest British species, 

 and has a wide distribution in Britain and Europe. A black 

 ringlet round the neck, edged with white, gives it the name of Ring- 

 dove. In winter the ringdoves are gregarious, assembling in vast 

 flocks in woods. They separate and pair in the spring, often 



