THE WRYXECK. bb 



birds and the Cuckoo, having many of the attributes of 

 both, as it is decidedly non-gregarious, being almost in- 

 variably found singly, or at most in pairs. 



The nest is built in various places, inasmuch as it will 

 sometinies be found in the deserted hole of a Woodj)ecker, 

 whilst at others the bird will cho ose a J iole in. an old 

 decayed tree, often be side a countryj"oad, though generally 

 in a m£re woode d loc ality. This ne^t is composed of 

 moss, wool, hair, and grass-stalks, laid upon a foundation 

 of decayed wood. The eggs are eight or nine ,in number, 

 but have vaijed from five to twelve, and are of a pui*e 

 shining white. The same nesting-place is resorted to 

 several years running, as the birds seem to become attached 

 to their familiar haunts. The young are fed principally 

 upon ants and their eggs, with a few caterpillars and 

 such-like insects. 



In connection with the snake-like appearance under 

 some circumstances, especially if wounded, it may be 

 added that the Wryneck will even hiss as it writhes and 

 twists its neck. Indeed, so peculiarly snake-like is its 

 appearance at such a time, that many have been deterred 

 from taking it into the hand, so much did the bird 

 resemble that much-abhorred reptile. The young, too, 

 have the peculiar power of the adults, and will hiss if 

 disturbed in the nest. These various circumstances make 

 up one of the most singular instances of what is called 

 "protective mimicry'^ in the animal world. 



Although generally living in unfrequented positions, 

 the AYryneek is not a shy bird, but if approached will 

 show a certain amount of disregard for the observer, not 

 flying away if disturl^ed, but contenting itself with simply 

 running alon^ the branch. 



