A HARBINGER OF SPRING 113 



Next to the Redbreast, the Sky-Lark is perhaps 

 the greatest favourite with country folk. Its 

 stirring though simple song is always listened to 

 and admired as one of the best which is given by 

 meadow birds ; and as a harbinger of spring its 

 song always gladdens the heart of Listeners. 



HEDGE-SPARROW FEEDING YOUNG. 



especially when, after a long spell of frost, the 

 winter at length breaks to give place to the bright 

 and reviving sunshine of warmer days. When the 

 winter months are comparatively mild this bird 

 may sometimes be heard singing ; I have heard it 

 pouring forth its song on New Year's Day with all 

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