82 THE BIRDS OF SHERWOOD FOREST. 



(lark brown spots, more numerous towards the larger 

 end. 



The majority of our woods are oak and ash, chiefly the 

 former ; but here and there a plantation of Scotch fir 

 and spruce is tenanted by that tiny monarch, the Gold- 

 crest (Regulus cristatus). Though often overlooked 

 because of its diminutive size, its sprightly habits make 

 it worthy of attention, and with a little caution it may 

 be safely approached without exciting its alarm. It is 

 constantly in motion, like the titmice, and assumes every 

 possible position. 



It is singular how so small a bird survives the rigours 

 of our cold season ; but it really is very hardy, and in 

 the depth of winter may be seen busy as ever, searching 

 for its daily food, as if constant motion was absolutely 

 necessary to maintain its bodily warmth ; indeed, I do 

 not remember ever seeing one indulging in the luxury 

 of rest in the daytime. 



It is my impression that they are more numerous 

 with us in the winter than the summer, as if we received 

 a partial migration from the north at that time ; but I 

 may be mistaken. 



Its compact nest, formed chiefly of moss, is neatly 

 suspended under a bough of a spruce or fir, and requires 

 a sharp eye to discover it. 



The titmice are a very interesting family of birds, 

 and, though little in size, they seem determined not to 

 remain unnoticed amongst their neighbours. Their 

 constant activity and grotesque attitudes make them 

 very amusing, and though some of them do not escape 

 the censure of the gardener, yet few of our feathered 

 friends are, I believe, more truly beneficial to us. Insects 

 form the staple of their food, and, from their incessant 



