BLACKBIRD. CROSSBILL HAWFINCH. 215 



THE BLACKBIRD. 



The plumage of the male blackbird is of a coal-black 

 colour : that of the female is a brown, or dark russet. 

 Though of a retired and solitary disposition, it is a very 

 well-known bird, and the deepest-toned warbler of the 

 woods. 



The note indeed of the blackbird, when heard at a 

 proper distance, is perhaps the most cheering of any among 

 the musicians of the grove ; but, when confined in a cage, 

 it is loud and deafening. It may be taught, however, to 

 whistle any tune, and even to imitate the human voice. 



In some very cold countries, and particularly on the 

 Alps, a variety of this bird is sometimes found of a pure 

 white colour. 



THE CROSSBILL. 



This bird is about the size of the lark : and is easily 

 distinguished by the singularity of its bill ; both mandi- 

 bles of which curve opposite ways, and cross each other. 

 The prevailing colour of the male is a dull red, inclining 

 to rose mixed with brown ; the female is green, shaded 

 with brown. The crossbill is a native of Germany, and 

 the northern parts of Europe ; but sometimes migrates 

 into England. It is also found in North America and 

 Greenland ; where it builds its nest on the loftiest pines, 

 fastening it to the branches by means of the resinous 

 matter which exudes from the tree. 



THE HAWFINCH. 



This bird is generally reckoned among those which 

 belong to Britain ; though it only visits us occasionally, 

 and for the most part in winter. It is common, however, 

 in Italy, Germany, Sweden, and the southern parts of 

 Russia, where it feeds on berries, kernels, and other sylvan 

 fruits. From the great strength of its bill, it is enabled 

 to crack the stones of haws and cherries with the greatest 

 facility. 



