70 fAMITJAIi Tf'ILD BIRDS. 



moustache. The ordinary len^^tli of the bml is about 

 thirteen inches. It naturally prefers padjs and old 

 timbered woods, as such ])]aces afford the most plentiful 

 supply o f fo od. 



It is known by a variety of names, most of whieli, 

 however, are entirely local. Amongst others, it is peijiaps 

 most generally known as the Popinjay and Awl Bird ; 

 yet it is also known by the names of " Rain " bird 

 and " To ng ue " bird, whilst in the sou^ it is com- 

 monly termed the '' Yaffle," or " Gaily " bird. It is 

 foiind throughout England, and also upon the Coiitinent. 



The flight of the "Woodpecker is undulating, and yet 

 somewhat heavy ; usiuilly only extended from tree to 

 tree. It will aliy-ht at the base and ascend the trunk 

 spirajly, clinging with its feet to the ba£k, and sup- 

 porting itself with its tail, searching the bai'k and 

 leaves for insects meanwhile. The descent of tlie tree 

 is accomplished in a backward manner. The ttiil, 

 which is esi)ecially strong and why, is used bf)th in the 

 ascent and descent. 



In order to obtain the insects secreted in the crevices 

 of the bark, the Woodpecker is provided witli a most 

 wonderful tongue, some inches in length, very prehensile, 

 of a silvery a})p('araneo. When in search of food, 

 this orgim is protruded with niarvellmis celeritv, and, 

 being covered with a glutinous substance, it invariablv 

 secures the object^jiinK'd at; it is then as quickly with- 

 draAvn, with the food adhering. 



The l)eak is wedge-shaped, long and strung, and used 

 by the bird to ta]) at tlie bark in order io induce the 

 insects to emerge from tiieir retreat. The eye is clear 

 and white. 



