PERCHING BIRDS. 183 



sprightly and agreeable notes, and social dispo- 

 sition, and it is an exceedingly well-known one, 

 existing in great numbers on most of the un- 

 cultivated lands of this country, appearing to 

 prefer commons and fields of furze. Usually 

 these birds are seen in flocks, roving about from 

 place to place, feeding on small seeds, particularly 

 those of flax, thistle, and dandelion. They usually 

 prefer the thickest parts of furze-bushes for their 

 nesting-places, or low bushy trees. In the breed- 

 ing season the male becomes more richly tinted ; 

 the crown of the head is tinged with rose colour 

 and this hue, becoming lighter in shade, colours 

 the breast, and fades to a pale peach on the sides. 

 It is then called " the rose linnet." This beau- 

 tiful colour is not seen in these birds in a state 

 of confinement. Linnets are birds of very gentle 

 dispositions, easily tamed, and capable of much 

 attachment to those who feed them. Their song 

 is cheerful and pleasing. 



The LESSER REDPOLE is the smallest of the British 

 linnets. It is known in the south of England as a 

 winter visitor only, at which season considerable 

 flocks make their appearance. Its note is a lively 

 twitter, and its sprightly engaging habits, make 

 it a favourite. It is one of the most easily tamed 

 of the smaller birds, and will breed in confine- 

 ment. The habits of unsuspecting confidence 



