THE SKY-LARK. l7o 



Habitation. — In a wild state, the sky-iark is found almost all over tlie 

 world, frequenting fields and meadows, and by preference ])lains. It is u 

 bird of passage which generally arrives in our regions in the beginning of 

 February, and departs in great flights in the month of October *. No bird 

 of passage returns so soon as the lark ; but as it lives not only on insects, 

 but eats all kinds of seeds and even grass, it can seldom be in want of pio. 

 vision even in the severest weather. 



In rooms, it is common to let i: iiop about, giving it a retired ronicr to 

 sleep ; it is, however, also kept in cages, where it sings best. Whatever 

 form may be given to these cages, they must be at least eighteen inches 

 long, nine wide, and fifteen high ; the bottom should have a drawer in 

 which enough of river sand should be kept for this scratching bird to 

 be able to roll and dust itself conveniently. It is also a good plan to have 

 in a corner a little square of fresh turf, which is as beneficial as it is agree- 

 able. The top of the cage must be of linen, since, from its tendency to 

 rise for flight, it would run the risk of wounding its head against a covering 

 of wood or iron wire, especially before it is well tamed. The vessels for 

 food and drink must be outside, or, which I prefer, a drawer for the food 

 may be introduced in the side of the cage : sticks are not necessary, as tlie 

 lark does not perch. When it is allowed to hop free in a room, the l.iTtei 



In Brilair. it is parlly migratory and paitlv stationary. — Translator. 



