FIELDFARES AND REDWINGS 91 



It is said that soon after their arrival in this 

 country in October, their flesh is not in very good 

 condition, but that it improves towards the end 

 of November, and continues so as long as the 

 various berries last, which constitute their principal 

 food. Some sportsmen will gather large quantities 

 of hips and haws, keep them until the supplies on 

 the hedges are all eaten, and then, by putting their 

 bait in places where the birds congregate, will 

 succeed in killing a large number of them. 



Although there is no proof that the Fieldfare 

 has ever nested in this country, solitary pairs are 

 sometimes to be seen in the hedgerows in spring ; 

 but they seem very reluctant to show themselves, 

 keeping to the thickest parts ; and the majority 

 leave our fields for their breeding stations in 

 northern Europe about the middle of April. 



The Redwing can readily be distinguished from 

 the Song-Thrush which at first sight it some- 

 what resembles by its slightly smaller size, and 

 rapid flight ; and, with the aid of a field-glass, by 

 the broad yellow stripe over the eye which can 

 easily be seen. 



All Thrushes show great concern for the safety 

 of their young if these are in danger. If a Hawk 

 or Crow should approach, they will defend their 

 nests with great valour ; but I have heard of a pair 



