244 



COUNTRY RAMBLES. 



very much larger now, and are commencing to pelter down when the 

 wind blows. 



Now that there is such a lull in the Avian choir or chorus, or 

 whatever you will, we may notice more prominently such birds as 

 Nuthatches' Tits, Creepers, and Woodpeckers. Do you hear that 

 curious vibrating noise? That is a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker 

 "drumming," as we Naturalists call it. Did you catch that curious 

 whistle just now? That was an ochre-breasted, short-tailed Nuthatch 

 calling to his mate. Do you hear that loud tapping in the Oak just 

 above us ? It is not a Woodpecker, but a Great Titmouse knocking at 

 the doors of the insect and larvae houses to see if anyone is at home. 



PELICANS. 



Do you see those noisy, flapping creatures going through the tall Firs 

 yonder? They are Ring Doves just coming in from their feeding 

 grounds. Do you hear that sweet musician at your elbow almost? 

 That is a melodious-voiced Redbreast pouring out his paean of glory, 

 Do you observe that black-capped, ashy bird in the hedge opposite ?^ 

 That is a Coal Titmouse diligently searching for its insectivorous bill 

 of fare. Do you see that sober plumed bird on the top of the hedge- 

 row now, uttering ' cheep, cheep"? That is a Hedge Sparrow, one of 



