IDLE MOMENTS. 45 



\ 



He is so industrious that he would build 

 out all other birds that came near him, and 

 out of pure mischief will often take possession 

 of the neighbouring Martin's nest. He will 

 pop into a hole in the slates, will block up 

 water-spouts, occupy any holes in the eaves 

 with his nest, which is, perhaps, as interesting 

 a sight as the young naturalist could see. 

 The nest is large, and, if unprotected, is covered 

 on the top, the bird entering by a hole at the 

 side, and it is composed of almost everything 

 in the soft goods line. Outside may be found 

 straw, hay, twine, hair, worsted, bits of leather, 

 pieces of paper, rags ; and inside, moss, fur 

 and soft feathers of all kinds and colours. It 

 is a most cosy abode, and a marvellous 

 example of "gear" gathering. 



Away from the dust and smoke of the town 

 the Sparrow is rather a pretty bird, especially 

 the male ; but, as I have said, what I admire 

 most about him is his industry. He never rests. 

 Ho\v different the Cuckoo. He builds no 



