260 BRITISH BIRDS. 



in this island; they breed chiefly in the northern 

 parts, and are known by the name of French 

 Linnets. They make a shallow open nest, com- 

 posed of dried grass and wool, lined with hair and 

 feathers; the female lays four eggs, almost white, 

 marked with reddish spots. In winter they mix 

 with other birds, and migrate in flocks to the 

 southern counties; they feed on small seeds of 

 various kinds, especially those of the alder, of 

 which they are extremely fond : they hang like the 

 Titmouse, with their back downwards, upon the 

 branches, w T hile feeding, and in this situation may 

 easily be caught with lime twigs. 



