164 BRITISH LAND BIRDS. 



former species. It feeds on marine insects, and 

 breeds in the clefts of the rocks. It is pleasant 

 amid the storms and desolation of winter, on the 

 sea-coast, to see this little bird "bobbing" about, 

 and braving the weather ; and at that season he is 

 almost the only winged creature to be met with 

 upon long stretches of the beach. 



The CHATS are well-marked, and distinct in 

 their habits and character. Their bills resemble 

 a little those of the insect-hawking birds, and 

 their feet are wel] fitted for running. They dwell 

 in the wilds, nestling under stones, furze bushes, 

 and brushwood, on dry commons and heaths. 

 They have not much song ; their ordinary note is 

 peculiar, not unlike the sound made by striking 

 one pebble against another. 



The STONE CHAT is the only resident British 

 species. It frequents dry moors, and lives among 

 the thick brakes of furze, finding shelter and food 

 there, even during the winter season. Mr. Mudie 

 says, "This is most truly the whin chat, as it 

 summers and winters among the furze." His 

 description of it is very pleasing. " These are 

 very delightful birds. The furze-brakes are among 

 the first places on which the sun of the young 

 year shines out. The green and gold of the furze 

 itself are gay and cheering; and it breathes a 



