44 FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



behind and brave the rigours of our climate. In a severe 

 winter (such as that of 1880-1881) many birds perish, and 

 amongst them the Goldfinch suffers severely, numbers 

 having been picked up dead from the effects of cold and 

 hunger. Through the winter those remaining are found in 

 various localities feeding upon the seeds of the thistle, 

 button-weed, teazle, and even hanging upon the alder-trees 

 searching for the seeds. These form their staple food, but 

 the appetite of the Goldfinch requires change, and many 

 another seed serves to support its existence through the 

 winter. 



Those birds remaining in this country through the 

 winter are known by the name of " harbour birds," whilst 

 those arriving in spring-time from abroad are known as 

 " flight birds." The latter are far the handsomer, a foreign 

 and warmer climate having intensified the brilliancy of 

 their plumage, and are easily distinguishable from the 

 less forward " harbour birds." The " flight birds " arrive 

 in this country about the beginning of April, and, after 

 mating, commence their arrangements for nesting as 

 described^ ^ 



