OWLS. 191 



gradually approach, nearer, and finding him unable 

 to resist, become so bold, that they at length come 

 within the line of twigs and are made prisoners 

 themselves. 



Though apparently cowardly birds, and never the 

 first to dispute with others of their own size, yet 

 when pressed, they show considerable spirit and 

 skill in defending themselves. One, which had 

 been slightly wounded in the wing, was, when 

 cured, placed in a large pen with a (Sparrow-Hawk, 

 which had been some time confined there, and with 

 whom, it was hoped, a new companion might live 

 on friendly terms ; but 110 sooner were they left to 

 themselves, than the Hawk fell upon the Owl, and 

 a furious battle began. But the Owl, so far from 

 showing fear, defended itself most gallantly. He 

 threw himself on his back, and awaited the charge 

 of his enemy with patience and preparation, and by 

 dint of fighting and scratching, preserved himself 

 from injury. As long as they remained together, 

 these battles were frequently repeated, and further 

 acquaintanceship did not seem likely to ripen into 

 friendship. Whether they would in the end have 

 come to better terms, cannot be known, as, after a 

 time, the Owl's wing having gained strength, it took 

 advantage of a favourable opportunity, and contrived 

 to escape, leaving the Hawk in full possession of 

 their joint prison. 



One other species of Owl only shall we notice, 

 which has a very different way of living and lodging, 

 from those already alluded to. It it is called the Bur- 

 rowing Owl (Strix cunicularia). It is widely spread 

 over the American continent, both North and South, 



