SWALLOW. 1 15 



In autumn, sparrows assemble in flocks, and roost on 

 trees near habitations; at this time they may be shot by 

 dozens. The flesh is not very well flavoured; and the 

 note is still less alluring. Nevertherless, the sparrow, by 

 its.vivacity and frequent appearance, affords some amuse- 

 ment to the lover of nature. It is a familiar, but a crafty 

 bird; and, though it seems to betray but little fear, it 

 exercises a necessary caution for its security. 



THE SWALLOW. 



The swallow is remarkable for the widenesa of its tail, 

 which is always open when flying, the shortness and 

 slenderness of its feet, and the immoderate length of its 

 wings. These qualities are indeed essential to the kind of 

 life which they lead, and enable them to provide the means 

 of ready subsistence. Insects are their principal food, and 

 no sooner does spring awaken that class of animated 

 nature from their state of torpidity, than the swallow makes 

 its appearance. At first it flies heavily and feebly, as if 

 wearied wifh its journey; but, as the weather grows 

 warmer, and the number of those insects increases, it 

 acquires additional strength and activity. 



THB> BARN SWALLOW, 



An American species, very much resembles the Common 

 Swallow. Its nest is built in out-houses or sheds, and 

 occupies a week in its construction ; its form is that of an 

 inverted cone, flattened on the side, which adheres to the 

 rafter or beam which supports it : it is composed of mud, 

 intermixed with hay, and lined with thatch and goose- 

 feathers. These birds are very sociable, often building 

 thirty pair in one barn. They are easily caught and tamed ; 

 they have a pleasant warble. 



