SPARROW. LINNET CANARY-BIRD. 219 



nomy of nature, for which it is totally impossible to 

 account. 



THE COMMON SPARROW. 



This bird, from its frequenting only the abodes of men, 

 and places adjacent, may be said to be fed chiefly from 

 human industry ; for, in spite of every precaution, it will 

 share the food of the domestic pigeons and poultry, and 

 consumes a considerable quantity of grain. On this 

 account it has been long proscribed, and a reward set 

 on its destruction ; but still the species continues undimi- 

 nished. 



In autumn, sparrows assemble in flocks, and roost on 

 trees near houses ; and at this time they may be shot by 

 dozens. The flesh is not very well flavoured, and the note 

 is still less alluring. Nevertheless the sparrow, by its 

 vivacity and frequent appearance, affords some amusement 

 to the lover of nature. It is a familiar but crafty bird ; 

 and, though it seerns to evince little fear, it exercises a 

 necessary caution for its own security. 



THE LINNET. 



The breast of this little bird is of a fine blood-red, 

 which heightens as the season advances. It is much and 

 deservedly esteemed for its song, which frequently sub- 

 jects it to captivity. It feeds on all kinds of seed, but 

 seems to prefer that of flax. 



THE CANARY-BIRD. 



This beautiful little creature was originally a native of 

 the Canary islands, from which it receives its name ; but 

 has been domesticated in Europe for at least two cen- 

 turies, and is a frequent ornament of the parlour or the 

 hall. Though it will breed in captivity, and even intermix 

 with other birds of the same genus, it is too delicate to 

 endure our climate in a state of nature. It will live in a 

 cage from ten to fifteen years. 



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