THE ROBIN. 



547 



the observation of enemies. This species belongs to India and the 

 islands of the Indian Ocean, and is unknown in Europe. 



Among other well-known species we may mention the GARDEN 

 "WARBLER ( Carruca hortensis, Selby), known also as the White- 

 throat, Greater Prettychaps, and other pet names ; also the BLACK- 

 CAP (Sylvia atricapilla) , both of which abound near dwelling- 

 houses surrounded by gardens. 



The ROBIN, or REDBREAST (Fig. 248), is too familiar a friend 



Fig. 249. Wrens (Regulus cristatus, Temm.). 



to require description. It is lively, pert, pugnacious, cheerful, 

 and a universal favourite. In April the Robin betakes itself 

 to the woods and thickets, where it rears its brood. On the 

 approach of winter it returns to civilised life, when, as M. Figuier 

 informs us, it constitutes excellent game ! No doubt it is edible ; 

 but where is the consumer of such to be found? Not in the 

 British Islands, we hope. 



The WRENS (Motacilla) are the smallest of European birds. 



N N 2 



