128 BIRDS OF SOMERSETSHIRE. 



appear to be generally rather larger in size and 

 more collected on the broad end. 



MARSH Trr, Parus palustris. The Marsh Tit is 

 perhaps not quite so common as either of the last 

 three species: like them, however, it is resident 

 with us throughout the year, and is by no means 

 rare. It may be found in considerable numbers in 

 all of our alder and willow beds, and also in com- 

 pany with the other Tits, in our orchards, where, 

 like its companions, it does much service by de- 

 vouring insects and caterpillars, although it may be 

 occasionally found guilty of the destruction of buds. 

 It also feeds on seeds, especially those of the thistle. 

 I have seen it also busily engaged in eating the 

 berries of the honeysuckle, occasionally picking 

 one off and holding it in its claw, like a parrot, 

 while it was getting out all the edible part ; 

 and, in the winter, it is said to be partial to stale 

 flesh. 



The Marsh Tit makes its nest in holes in trees, 

 such as alders and willows ; and about here apple 

 trees are a favourite resort. The eggs are difficult 

 to get, as the nest is usually placed in a hole too 

 small to allow of the insertion of the hand. Ac- 

 cording to Montagu, the bird itself excavates a place 

 for the nest : he says he has seen it artfully exca- 

 vating the decayed part of a tree, carrying the chips 

 in its bill to some distance, always working down- 

 wards, and making the bottom for the reception of 



