THE WHITE STORK. 199 



was considered by their augurs as significant of 

 union and concord ; while its departure, under 

 any adverse circumstances was held to be a sure 

 presage of misfortune. 



It is related of Atilla, that when about to 

 raise the s^e of Aquileia, wearied out by a pro- 

 tracted resistance, he changed his plan and con- 

 tinued the siege, because some storks had been 

 observed to fly away from the place, bearing 

 their young with them ; thus, according to the 

 prevailing opinion, indicating that the fall of the 

 devoted city was at hand. In the Egyptian 

 hieroglyphics it was used as a symbol of piety 

 and beneficence. It was likewise adopted by the 

 Romans, as an emblem on the medals of such of 

 their princes as received the appellation of plus. 



These birds emigrate from the European 

 countries they frequent, in the autumn : they pre- 

 pare for their departure about the end of August, 

 all the storks in a district assembling on some 

 plain or open place daily, for some little time be- 

 fore the important journey is commenced. When 

 assembled, a great clattering of bills takes place, 

 and they appear to seek out and recognise each 

 other, and hold counsel on their approaching 

 flight. On some occasions these assemblies are 

 very tumultuous, and from arguments the se- 

 nators proceed to blows. In due time, however, 



