50 THE LIFE OF A BIRD. 



formed are the narrow leaves of the common reed. 

 These are wound round and interlaced with some 



degree of art, as is evident from the annexed 

 representation of this structure. They are with- 

 out any other lining. The dabchick, or little grebe, 

 also makes use of the simplest materials. As soon 

 as the weeds of the waters which these birds 

 frequent are sufficiently luxuriant for the purpose, 

 and in those parts where the bulrush grows tall and 

 waving, they begin to build. Gathering a suffi- 

 ciency of the aquatic weeds together, they deposit 

 them in a large flat mass, which is raised an inch 

 or two above the water. Weeds form the only 

 materials of this rude and simple nest ; and they 



