18 BRITISH BIRDS' EGGS. 



therefore approached without much difficulty, and shot. 

 Another bird, apparently of this species, was seen at the 

 same time upon the wing at no great distance, but could 

 never be approached within gunshot." (Naturalists' Li- 

 brary, vol. i.) This Vulture is abundant in Africa, and not 

 uncommon in Southern Europe, but France and Britain are 

 considered the utmost northern limits of its appearance. 



This species is reported to build its nest in the most 

 desert and inaccessible parts of the countries which it in- 

 habits. Nidification commences about the end of March, 

 and the eggs, which do not, according to Mr. Bruce, exceed 

 two in number, are tinged or marked with various tints and 

 shades of brown. Some are described as approaching in 

 richness of appearance the eggs of the Peregrine Falcon. 



FALCONLim FALCONS. 



We next arrive at the Falcons, of which many species 

 occasionally visit, or constantly remain in, Britain. They 

 do not usually devour carrion, like the Vultures, but their 

 prey is almost always seized by their own energies, either 

 on the wing, or pounced on by surprise in cover, or on the 

 ground; it consists of quadrupeds, birds, reptiles, fishes, 



