222 BLACK-CAP. RED-BREAST. 



from other birds of its kind ; net only by its size, but also 

 by the beautiful scarlet mark on its head, bounded on 

 each side by a fine yellow line. This elegant little creature 

 frequents woods and coverts, and is usually seen perched 

 on the oak. Its note does not differ materially from that 

 of the common wren. It continues with us the whole 

 year, and seems capable of enduring the rigour of our 

 severest winters. 



THE BLACK-CAP. 



The crown of the head of this small bird is black, and 

 thence it derives its name. The hind part of the neck is 

 of a light ash-colour, the back and coverts of the wings 

 are of a greyish green, and the breast and upper part of 

 the belly are of a pale ash-colour. 



The black-cap is a bird of passage, and quits the British 

 islands before the commencement of winter ; however, 

 during its stay, it gratifies us with its song, which is so 

 sweet, that in Norfolk it has obtained the name of the 

 mock-nightingale. In fact, its notes are full, sweet, 

 deep, and loud ; and inferior only to those of the bird 

 with which it has been thus compared. 



THE RED-BREAST. 



Of all birds this is the most familiar, and therefore it is 

 in a manner consecrated to the domestic affections. The j 

 beauty of its form, the vivacity of its motions, and the ! 

 confidence it seems to repose in man, all unite to secure , 

 it from annoyance. Added to this, several popular pre-| 

 judices operate in its favour, and seem to prevail in every j 

 country where it is known. It feeds on insects ; eats 

 crumbs of bread when its usual food fails ; and, while 

 other birds are ready to perish with cold and hunger, seeks | 

 the shelter of a house or cottage, in which it is generally \ 

 a welcome guest. 



The song of the red-breast is remarkably soft and sweet; 

 and the more to be valued, as we enjoy it during the 

 greater part of the winter, when the other feathered 



