OWLS. 



155 



"become so bold, that tliey at length come within the line of 

 twigs, and are made prisoners themselves. 



Though apparently cowardly birds, and never the first to 

 dispute with others of their own size, yet when pressed, they 

 show considerable spirit and skill in defending themselves. 

 One, which had been slightly wounded in the wing, was, when 

 cured, placed in a large pen with a Sparrow-hawk, which had 

 been some time confined there, and with whom, it was hoped, 

 a new companion might live on friendly terms ; but no sooner 

 were they left to themselves, than the Hawk fell upon the 

 Owl, and a furious battle began. But the Owl, so far from 

 showing fear, defended itself most gallantly. He threw him- 

 self on his back, and awaited the charge of his enemy with 

 patience and preparation, and by dint of fighting and scratch- 

 ing, preserved himself from injury. As long as they remained 



The Prairie Owl. 



together, these battles were frequently repeated, and further 

 acquaintanceship did not seem likely to ripen into friendship. 

 Whether they would in the end have come to better terms 

 cannot be known, as, after a time, the Owl's wing having 

 gained strength, it took advantage of a favourable opportunity, 



