86 FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



which an insect could conceal itself, and frequently going 

 over the examined places a second time, as though deter- 

 mined to avoid the least mistake or oversight. The number 

 of obnoxious pests destroyed even in one day by a Blue Tit 

 must be very considerable, and it is to be regretted that 

 due importance is so seldom attached to this fact by 

 gardeners and other individuals who wage war against 

 it, merely regarding it as a nuisance and a depredator. 



The Blue Tit is deservedly noted for the elegant con- 

 struction of its nest, which is usually placed in the hollow 

 j>art of a tree, or a hole in a wall; but occasionally somt> 

 very strange and eccentric places are selected, amongst 

 which may be mentioned an old stone bottle, a pump, a 

 letter-box, and in the clothes of a scarecrow. The nest is 

 composed of the softest materials, such as grass, moss, &c, 

 and skilfully lined with hair, wool, and feathers, the latter 

 largely predominating. Building commences in March or 

 April ; the number of eggs are seven or eight, and some- 

 times more; they are of a pinky-white colour, more or less 

 spotted at the larger end with rufous brown. The Blue 

 Tit is very devoted to her nest, and at the time of hatching 

 both birds become oold and clamorous, and have been 

 known to fly at persons approaching their habitation. The 

 female will sometimes permit herself to be taken rather 

 than quit her nest, and will erect her feathers, utter a sort 

 of hissing noise, and even peck fiercely at the hand of the 

 intruder. This bird is very quarrelsome in its disposition, 

 frequently assailing other birds, and even individuals of 

 its own species. The flight is undulating and somewhat 

 unsteady, and the note is discordant, especially when 

 angry and alarmed, at which time it may almost be likened 

 to a disagreeable shriek. 



