218 THE SMALLER BRITISH BIRDS. 



and again to some particular stone or projecting piece of rock. "In 

 one or two instances," says Montagu, "where we have been able to 

 perceive it under water, it appeared to tumble about in a very extra- 

 ordinary manner, with its head downwards, as if picking up something; 

 and at the same time great exertion was used, both by wings and 

 legs." This bird is often accused of destroying the eggs and fry of 

 the salmon and trout, and is therefore shot or snared by gamekeepers 

 and others on every opportunity. Much discussion has taken place on 

 this point in the columns of the "Field/' "Zoologist/' "Times/' etc., 

 but we think the evidence tends most strongly to prove the charge 

 unfounded, and to show that the Dipper is really protecting the spawn, 

 by destroying the various water-beetles and larvas that are known to 

 prey on it. In support of this view Mr. Buckland writes, "It may be 

 observed that I do not mention the Dipper as destructive to spawn 

 this advisedly, as of late I have carefully examined the gizzards of 

 several of these beautiful little birds, and have found only the remains 

 of water-insects in them; write the Dipper the friend and not the enemy 

 of fish spawn." 



The nest of this bird is usually placed close to the stream in holes 

 in the rocks or beneath some overhanging stone. It is large, measuring 

 ten or twelve inches in diameter, and seven or eight in depth, and 

 consists of twigs, grass, and moss, with a thick lining of leaves. Being 

 domed over and firmly compacted, it prevents the entrance of any 

 water, even when placed in the spray of a cascade. The eggs, from 

 four to six in number, are glossy white, and of a regular oval form. 

 Three broods are frequently reared in a season. 



THE MISSEL THRUSH, 



(Turdus viscivorus.} 



PLATE XIV. FIGURE IV. 



THIS bird, which derives both its common and scientific names from 

 its supposed fondness for the berries of the mistletoe, is the largest 

 European member of its genus, measuring upwards of eleven inches 

 in length, and having a spread of wing exceeding eighteen inches. It 

 is a resident in this country throughout the year, being most plentiful 



